Jesus' Parable About Forgiveness

“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto… (Matthew 18:21-22).” Stop and think about the question that prompted Jesus to deliver this kingdom of heaven parable. The question, as well as Jesus' response, both pertain to having forgiveness. However, the kingdom of heaven parable that Jesus delivered in response to this question not only pertains to forgiveness, but it also pertains to judging, and to having judgment. So before interpreting the lesson of this prophecy it is beneficial to consider the implications of these two parable words.

Even referring to the Day of the Lord as "Judgment Day" manifests the significant roll that judgment will have during these times. Believers can determine the parable meaning of the word "judgment"by considering what is being said in an elaborated version of the name that was used to depict that very day. “The day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God (Romans 2:5).” This verse is associating the word "judgment" with having the ability to correctly discern between good, and evil. This is significant, for it insinuates that not only is Judgment Day going to be a day wherein people will be witnessing God's wrath, but it is also going to be a day wherein God's people will be witnessing God's amazing ability to spare the innocent, and punish the guilty. “Thou art righteous, O Lord… because thou hast judged thus (Revelation 16:5).” “True and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth (Revelation 19:2).” Because God verified that his righteousness in judgment will be witnessed on that day, believers can perceive and know that on that day many people will be testifying of God's righteousness, and they will be praising God for fulfilling his word.

“The Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment to the son (John 5:22).” Jesus Christ and his followers are the believers that are called, and anointed to be the people that are doing the judging during these times. “Jesus commanded us to… testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of the quick and the dead (Acts 10:42).” “He hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead (Acts 17:31).” God appointed Jesus Christ and those who are following him in the regeneration to the position of judge, because these believers have the Holy Spirit. With the Spirit as their guide, these believers will execute righteous judgment. “If I judge, my judgment is true: for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me (John 8:16).” “As I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father (John 5:30).”

Think about the words "in the regeneration" and what truly mean. These words pertain to the days wherein God's people will be learning the newly revealed truths of prophecy, and exposing the mistaken thoughts, and beliefs of religion. Are you following Jesus in these things? “Verily I say unto you, that ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel (Matthew 19:28).” When Jesus spoke these words, he was testifying and verifying that his followers would be the anointed judges during end times, but Jesus also gave his followers a very important warning: “With what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged (Matthew 7:2).”

Judging is not about hurling insults at fellow believers, and it's not about promoting violence against people of other religions. “Why doest thou judge thy brother? Or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ (Romans 14:10).” “Be ye perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment (1Corinthian 1:10).” Judging is about speaking the truth of God’s word, in love, for the purpose of helping the deceived recover themselves from the mistaken beliefs of their religion. It is outrageous to condemn other believers simply because of their religious beliefs. Judges that offend in this fashion are not only breaking God’s law, but they are judging in a way that provokes God to wrath, because it offends and infuriates his people. “Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaks evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law but a judge (James 4:11).” Ponder a verse of scripture that manifests the true objective of a righteous judge: “If… there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: Thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face, he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth (1Corinthians 14:24-25).”

Before judging others, believers should judge themselves: this is done by making sure that you have the Holy Spirit. “If we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world (1Corinthians 11:31-32).” Begin to judge yourself by considering whether or not the words of Jesus Christ and his apostles are truly written in your mind, and in your heart. Believers that walk with the Holy Spirit are no longer selfishly living unto themselves: they give up the comforts and eases of this life in order to bring others into better understanding of God's word. Spirit led believers are always available to help the Lord fulfill his word. “They which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again (2Corinthians 5:15).” “We are laborers together with God (1Corinthians 3:9).” “And joint-heirs with Christ, if so be that we suffer with him (Romans 8:17).” “We ourselves glory in you… for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer (2Thessalonians 1:4-5).”

Exactly who are the anointed judges called to judge? “If any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day (John 12:47-48).” The crucial dividing words are "believers," and "those who believe not," for Jesus and his followers are not called to judge the unbelievers. When a righteous judge tries to show someone the newly revealed truths of prophecy, if that person exhibits animosity, and offense or disdain, then the judge is to leave their rebellious soul unto the judgment of the Lord God Almighty. Scripture testifies that after God pours out the affliction of Salvation Day, the people that continue to reject instruction and oppose the newly revealed truths of prophecy, will suffer the attacks of the wicked: and if that doesn't convince them to believe the truth, then they will suffer the affliction of God's wrath on Judgment Day. In every case, every unbeliever will receive the reward of his, or her, own doing. “The Lord shall judge his people (Hebrews 10:30).” “Them that are without God judgeth (1Corinthians 5:13).” “Whoremongers and adulterers God will judge (Hebrews 13:4).” “Babylon... shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her (Revelation 18:8; 18:10).”

After understanding the truth about God’s parable use of the words "judge" and "judgment," the parable on forgiveness is ready for interpretation: “Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants (Matthew 18:23).” The words “certain king” specify that the accounting which is being done, is being done by just one person. This man is consistently referred to throughout the parable as, lord, and yet there is one verse which seemingly indicates that this man is a “fellow-servant.” This clue implies that the judge is a leader who has acquired a great deal of admiration and respect from the people that work with him: arguably his peers are persuaded and convinced that this judge is being led by the Spirit of God. Another discernible point concerning this man, is that he is someone who knows the covenant message, for the parable indicates that this man demonstrates not only the power to judge, but also the power to deliver a man unto the tormenting pestilence. Because of these two valid and discernible points, it is conceivable that this parable is prophesying truths about God’s chosen prophet: a man whom he hath raised up from the Islamic nation: “Who raised up the righteous man from the east, called him to his foot, gave the nations before him, and made him rule over kings (Isaiah 41:2).” Before moving on to the next verse, note that this formerly Islamic lord is said to be in the process of taking into account his own servants: which words imply that he is already judging believers within his own nation.

“And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all he had, and payment to be made (Matthew 18:24-25).” Before discerning the meaning of this verse, the parable words "talent" and "sold" must be interpreted. Let's start with the word "talent." There is an implied hint of interpretation in the scriptures concerning the word "talent." This word seemingly references a person’s soul. Three convincing arguments for reaching this conclusion, include: “Stones” are likened to talents (1Peter 2:5; Revelation 16:21); Gold, silver, brass, and iron talents were given for the service of God’s house (1Chronicals 29:7); and David’s crown was said to be one talent of gold (2Samuel 12:30).

In prophecy, the parable word “sold” pertains to using lies and mischief to convince others to uphold, and have respect for certain untrue beliefs that separate them from the Holy Spirit: they are sold into spiritual death. Verses that clarify the meaning of this word, include: “For your iniquities have ye sold yourselves (Isaiah 50:1).” “They… sold themselves to do evil in the sight of the Lord, to provoke him to anger (2Kings 17:17).” Anyone that tells lies, or withholds the newly revealed truths of prophecy from a priest or prophet for the purpose of deceiving them, is not only selling that leader into spiritual death, but they are also selling all the people that sit under his realm of influence. This is why the judge in this portion of the parable is depicted as commanding that the thief's wife, children, and all he had, be sold. Everyone that is sold, is deceived, consequently they are unknowingly working against God, and against his word. “We are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish (Ester 7:4).” The act of lying, or withholding newly revealed truths of prophecy for the purpose of selling God’s people, is abomination. “The land shall not be sold forever: for the land is mine (Leviticus 25:23).” “Behold, I will raise them out of the place whither ye have sold them, and will return your recompense upon your own head (Joel 3:7).”

As for the interpretation of the afore mentioned verse concerning the perpetrator that owed a thousand talents and was brought before a judge: for reason of the interpretation of the word, talent, as well as for reason of the sentence which was served against the guilty, the interpretation of this portion of the parable begins by acknowledging that a thief was caught stealing converts. Find evidence concerning the sentencing of the thief, in the verse: "If a thief be found breaking up, and... if the sun be risen upon him... he should make full restitution; if he have nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft (Exodus 22:2-3)." Surely the judge and his helpers are intentionally intending to deceive the perpetrator and his followers, for the parable confesses that the judge commanded him sold: but God prepared a better way. “Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the Lord, and he shall save thee (Proverbs 20:22).” The mischievous man that owed this judge a thousand talents, is arguably an Assyrian who was given a door of opportunity to reach the Islamic nation for the cause of Christ, but rather than teach the people the covenant message, the Assyrian was covetously converting faithful Muslims to the practices and ways of traditional Christianity. In effect, he was stealing converts. “Mine eyes are upon all their ways: they are not hid from my face, neither is their iniquity hid from mine eyes. And first I will recompense their iniquity and their sin double; because they have defiled my land, they have filled mine inheritance with the carcasses of their detestable and abominable things (Jeremiah 16:17-18).”

God has mercifully given the king of Assyria, as well as Nebuchadnezzar, a full disclosure of his end time plan, but there still remains one important key that has escaped much attention. “I will give unto thee the key of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven (Matthew 16:19).” Forgiveness is that key, and this is a crucial key, because not only it will loose this thief, but it will open the doors of the everlasting kingdom. God's people must forgive persons of other religions for their transgressions, as well as for every mischievous mistake that was made in the name of religion. Having forgiveness allows people to freely share the truths of God’s word with their enemies, as well as their adversaries. When believers perceive that religion's teachings are rooted deep in the hearts and minds of all God's people, then they can forgive those who have either mistreated them, or their fellow-believers, because of their religion. Forgiveness changes the heart, and it allows God's people to become righteous judges, for it works to ensure that believers have true compassion and mercy upon all of the deceived. “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors… For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your heavenly Father forgive your trespasses (Matthew 6:12-15).”

The parable continues: “The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt (Matthew 18:26-27).” The word “worship” insinuates that when this thief was confronted with his crimes, fear and guilt caused him to plead for the judge's leniency. The word “loosed” confirms that the judge believed God. He was moved with compassion for the people of God, wherefore the judge forgave his adversary, and confessed unto him all that was lacking from his understanding of the covenant message. This judge was able to forgive the dealings of this crafty servant of the Lord, because he had wisely considered the converts which were stolen, to be on loan to the Lord. “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again (Proverbs 19:17).”

“But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow-servants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellow-servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt (Matthew 18:28-30).” Because the parable word "owed" is often attributed to the prophets, this verse is implying that the unjust perpetrator is himself, a prophet. People owe prophets a certain debt of gratitude, because they are responsible for bringing forth new understandings and the word of God, before it is ever desired, or believed. Prophets often suffer mistreatment and the misunderstanding of others, and the ill-treatment usually comes from the very people that they are trying to reach with the truth of God's word. Ponder a verse of scripture that reveals the true meaning of the parable word, owe: “I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides (Philemon 1:19).” When believers consider the actions that are depicted in the parable, it becomes increasingly obvious that the recently released prophet who is imprisoning a fellow servant, is fully aware of the covenant message: he is either the king of Assyria, or else he is another prophet that has respect for, and believes the Assyrians's teachings. In any case, the appalling deeds of this prophet, testify against him.

This defiant, and recently released judge has rejected some of the newly revealed truths of prophecy: and furthermore, he has disregarded the testimony of God's chosen prophet from the nation of Islam. The Apostle Paul once recorded confessions about imprisonments which were taking place while he was religiously deceived. His confessions alien themselves with the words of this parable, and they serve to make the interpretation. “I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women (Acts 22:4).” “Many of the saints did I shut up in prison (Acts 26:10).” Paul was zealous for God, but before he believed that Jesus was Lord, he was trying to silence and eradicate the light of Christianity. Paul carried out his offenses, because of the love and respect that he had for the laws and teachings of Judaism. Religion had caused him spiritual blindness, and because of his blindness Paul could not see that God was bringing forth new understanding. The outrageous deeds which are recorded against the judge and perpetrator in Jesus' parable, perfectly align themselves with Paul's deeds: this serves to allow believers to perceive that in spite of his zealousness for the Lord, the perpetrator that is depicted in this parable is blindly fighting to preserve the mistaken beliefs of his religion. In other words, this prophet is so thoroughly convinced that believers must maintain the mistaken rules and laws of the Christian faith, that he is persecuting, and trying to silence a follow believer.

Whether this Christian leader and the authorities are truly deceived, or whether they're hiding the newly revealed truths of prophecy for their own purposes, and their own glory, every leader that is claiming to be waiting for a sign, is God's adversary. “A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign (Matthew 16:4)." Scripture confesses that many of today's authorities are keeping the truths of God's end time message quiet for covetous reasons. “Among my people are found wicked men… As a cage is full of birds, so are their houses full of deceit: therefore they are become great, and waxen rich (Jeremiah 5:26-27)." Because the Christian authorities are trying to hide and silence the newly revealed truths of prophecy, they are compelling the priesthood to be patient and wait for a sign. But, according to God's word, the newly revealed truths of prophecy will go out before God pours out the affliction, and before Nebuchadnezzar is revealed to the nations.

Among the prophecies which Jesus delivered concerning the signs of the times, Jesus verified that believers will be taken before perverted judges. Wherefore the injustice of being taken before perverted judges, is itself a sign. Along with this sign, Jesus delivered an instruction to the potential prisoners. When a believer is taken before the religious authorities because he has spoken out and confessed the truths of covenant message, he is to be mindful and take heed of what he says, for the Spirit of God is going to be speaking through him. The evidence of this sign is recorded in the of the gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Before reading these three accounts, understand that false prophets will arise, and they will mistreat God's messengers, for they will want to change the messenger's theology. The punishment for accepting their lies will be to lose the Holy Spirit. In other words, if a believer that has spoken the truth is persuaded to turn back to religion's lies, then he will die spiritually. Afterwards he will be delivered to the noisome pestilence. “No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:62).” “Remember Lot’s wife (Luke 17:32).” “Let him which is on the housetop not come down… neither let him which is the field return back to take his clothes (Matthew 24:17-18).” The next three numbered segments are words which Jesus spoke concerning the mistaken deeds of Christianity's blinded judges and rulers, as they unjustly take hostile actions against those who are doing God's will:

1.) “Take heed to yourselves: for they shall deliver you up to councils; and in synagogues ye shall be beaten: and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them. And the gospel must first be published among all nations. But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost (Mark 13:9-11).”

2.) “Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure to the end, the same shall be saved. This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come (Matthew 24:9-14).”

3.) “But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name’s sake. And it shall turn to you for a testimony. Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer: For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist (Luke 21:12-15).”

Now, back to the happenings of the parable: The word “owed” suggests that the fellow-servant who was imprisoned, was probably someone who was introduced to the covenant message through the teachings of the unsympathetic judge that imprisoned him. Because the unsympathetic judge is depicted as being furious with this man, insomuch that he took him by his throat, it is highly likely that the prisoner was speaking of things that the prophet was trying to suppress, and keep silent. The word “prison” not only implies that this believer has lost the Holy Spirit, but it also implies that his ability to speak freely was taken away. This prisoner is no longer at liberty to discuss and teach the newly revealed truths of prophecy, and that is probably because there are many people against him.

The parable continues: “So when his fellow-servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me. Shouldest thou also have had compassion on thy fellow-servant, even as I had pity on thee (Matthew 18:31-33)?” The word “so” seemingly implies that this incident may have been a set up, for it suggests that there were spies watching to see what would happen to the deceitful prophet after he had been released. Despite receiving correction from God's chosen prophet, this undeterred prophet continued to remain spiritually deaf and blind, for he and his helpers continued to rely upon the iniquities of Christianity. “They are turned back to the iniquities of their forefathers, which refused to hear my words… Therefore thus saith the Lord, Behold, I will bring evil upon them, which they shall not be able to escape; and though they shall cry unto me, I will not hearken unto them… for I will not hear them in the time that they cry unto me for their trouble (Jeremiah 11:10-14).”

“The leaders of this people cause them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed. Therefore the Lord shall have no joy in their young men, neither shall have mercy on their fatherless and widows: for everyone is an hypocrite and an evildoer, and every mouth speaketh folly (Isaiah 9:16-17).” “Hast thou seen this, O son of man? Is it a light thing to the house of Judah that they commit the abominations which they commit here? For they have filled the land with violence, and have returned to provoke me to anger: and, lo, they put the branch to their nose. Therefore will I also deal in fury: mine eye shall not spare, neither will I have pity: and though they cry in mine ears with a loud voice, yet will I not hear them (Ezekiel 8:17-18).”

The parable continues: “His lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him (Matthew 18:34).” God will cause his chosen prophet of the east to rise up with his fellow-servants, and they will spread the good news of his end time message. Their messages will release the torments, for the word "tormentor" pertains to the noisome pestilence. God's people are called to walk by faith, and therefore it is a terrible thing that blind Christian leaders are continuing to withhold, and hide the newly revealed truths of prophecy. They are imprisoning priests, for they are causing them to die spiritually by compelling them hide the truth; God withdraws the Holy Spirit from each and every person that knowingly tells lies against the truth, for dishonesty dishonors the Lord, as well as his people. “Thus saith the Lord my God; Feed the flock of the slaughter; whose possessors slay them, and hold themselves not guilty: and they that sell them say, Blessed be the Lord; for I am rich: and their own shepherds pity them not. For I will no more pity the inhabitants of the land, saith the Lord: but, lo, I will deliver every man into his neighbor’s hand, and into the hand of his king: and they shall smite the land, and out of their hand I will not deliver them. And I will feed the flock of slaughter, even you, O poor of the flock (Zechariah 11:4-7).”

“Behold, I will stir up the Medes against them…Their bows also shall dash the young men to pieces; and they shall have no pity… their eye shall not spare children. And Babylon, the glory of the kingdoms… shall be as when God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah (Isaiah 13:17-19).” “Come out of her, my people… that ye receive not her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. Reward her… double according to her works… How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I… shall see no sorrow. Therefore shall her plagues come in one day… for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her… The kings of earth… shall bewail her… standing afar off for fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas that great city Babylon, that mighty city! For in one hour is thy judgment come (Revelation 18:4-10).”

“Should ye not hear the words which the Lord hath cried by the former prophets? …Execute true judgment, and show mercy and compassions every man to his brother (Zechariah 7:7-9).” Believers already know that they are commanded by God to love one another, and to show mercy, pity, and forgiveness. But some Christian authorities have hardened their hearts, and in covetousness they are casting off pity: they are in need of God’s correction. God will arise and he will pour out his sign upon Christianity's uniformed, and ignorant priests. This will correct the hardened hearts and minds of the religious authorities, but God also will arise because of his mercy, for the pestilence is not only purposed to correct the theology of the prophets, but it is also purposed to cause the religious authorities to stop persecuting the righteous. “He causeth it to come, whether for correction, or for his land, or for mercy (Job 37:13).” “Therefore wait ye upon me, saith the Lord, until the day that I rise up to the prey: for my determination is to gather the nations, that I may assemble the kingdoms, to pour upon them mine indignation, even all my fierce anger: for all the earth shall be devoured with the fire of my jealousy (Zephaniah 3:8).”

Many prophecies suggest that God's messengers will suffer ostracizing and betrayal. The worst part about their ordeal is that the fury which comes painfully against them, is the fury of fellow church goers, as well as that of family and friends. God's messengers will need to have patience and remember that their persecutors are deceived, so forgive them. They will also need to stay strong, and not turn back from following the Lord, despite their troubles. Turning back to iniquity so that you can continue in your old religious ways, equates to spiritual death. “Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it (Luke 17:33).” The battle of end times is a battle against religious mistakes, for no religion is righteous in God's eyes. "There is none righteous, no, not one (Romans 3:10)." “I will dash them against one another, even the fathers and the sons together… I will not pity, nor spare, nor have mercy, but destroy them (Jeremiah 13:14).” “Ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. And you shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. But their shall not an hair of your head perish. In your patience possess ye your souls (Luke 21:16-19).” “Now brother shall betray brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. Ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved (Mark 13:12-13).”

End times are purposed to destroy religion, and to cause God's people to accept and acknowledge their new covenant. It is extremely important to study the scriptures, but if believers will study the covenant message along with the word of God, and if they will follow its instructions and believe that God has given them a new covenant, then God will be merciful to them, and they can avoid the turmoils, afflictions, and pestilences of end times. As implied, the opposite is true for believers that refuse to consider and accept the newly revealed truths of God's end time message, for they will be corrected by the predetermined judgement of God. “For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth, and smote him: I hid me, and was wroth, and he went on forwardly in the way of his heart. I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and will restore comforts unto him and to his mourners (Isaiah 57:17-18).” “In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the Lord thy redeemer (Isaiah 54:8).” “Great deliverance giveth he to his king; and sheweth mercy to his anointed, to David, and to his seed evermore (Psalm 18:50).” “He that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart (Psalm 32:10-11).” “The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy (Psalm 147:11).”

The conclusion of the parable reads: “So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses (Matthew 18:35).” Can there be any doubt that forgiveness is the precious key that is required for opening the doors of the kingdom? “Forgive, and you shall be forgiven (Luke 6:37).” Forgiveness and mercy are so important to God, that he included those words in his name: “The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty (Exodus 34:6-7).”

The Parable of the Tares of the Field

“His disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field (Matthew 13:36).” The parable of the tares is about the harvest of end times, but equally as important it is one more part, and another clue, in the kingdom of heaven parables. Before getting into the interpretation of this parable, let's briefly consider the collective work of all the kingdom of heaven parables. Most Christians already know that the words, "kingdom of heaven," pertain to the receiving of the Holy Spirit, but what they have not known is that those very same words also apply to God's hidden agenda. The mystery of God's hidden agenda is that in the fullness of time God planned to cause every believer to inherit the Holy Spirit, and he called and named his plan: the kingdom of heaven.

The goal and purpose of God’s hidden agenda is to cause every religious leader to stand before the people, and confess and acknowledge four things: Number one: that all of God's people should desire to obtain the Holy Spirit, for it is the gift of God. Number two: that God has given his people a new covenant, and from henceforth eternal life will only be granted unto believers that know God's new covenant, and do it: and the new covenant is to learn of Jesus. Number three: that religion resulted from the forefathers' misinterpretations of God's word, as well as from people's fears of deviating from religious doctrine and the beliefs of their assemblies. Number four: that God used four carpenters to build Zion: Islam, Judaism, Christianity and the priesthood: and all four of these carpenters are of the seed of Abraham, therefore all four of these groups are God’s chosen people.

It is necessary to have the priesthood confess and acknowledge all four of these truths before the people: for then, and only then, will the kingdom of heaven be received by all God's people; and then, and only then, are all of God's people set free from every possibility of religious deception. Rejoice, for this is the day that believers have been waiting for, for when these four truths are confessed before the masses, then all of God's people have the opportunity to partake in eternal life with the Holy Spirit. “The kingdom of God cometh not with observation… for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you (Luke 17:20-21).” Since God’s wrath will be the ultimate confirmation of the matter, the new covenant will be established, and spiritual death will be swallowed up in victory! “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory (1Corinthians 15:55)?” Rejoicing evidence of these things is documented in the words: "And I will give them one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the good of them, and for there children after them: And I will make an everlasting covenant with them (Jeremiah 32:39-40)."

God's hidden agenda involves many aspects which are simultaneously working together towards knowing and acknowledging what God's will is, and towards fulfilling prophecy. For lack of better terminology, these various aspects could be referred to as, facets. Each individual kingdom of heaven parable yields perspective and understanding to one of the various facets of God's end time plan. These various facets are already at work at fulfilling prophecy. Wherefore, collectively the kingdom of heaven parables are within themselves, evidence that God is causing every believer to inherit the riches of the kingdom. “That ye may know… the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints (Ephesians 1:18).” “That he would grant you… to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man… that you might be filled with all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:16; 3:19).”

Now the parable is this: “The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field (Matthew 13:24).” “He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man (Matthew 13:37).” The interpretation of the parable of the tares must start out by acknowledging that this sower is a priest or a religious leader, because, in prophecy, the male gender is used to represent religious leaders. Additionally, crediting the sower with being the Son of man insinuates that he understands Jesus’ doctrine: the sower is in Christ, and the Holy Spirit is in him. The work of a “sower” pertains exclusively to one specific message, therefore this believing priest is teaching his listeners how to receive the Holy Spirit. “The good seed are the children of the kingdom (Matthew 13:38).” Because there is some “good seed,” the seed itself becomes evidence that this man’s message is in agreement with God's word, for good seed only happens when God causes a good message to be received in the hearts and minds of his people.

“The field is the world (Matthew 13:38).” There are important understandings which can be learned from each of the two words used to describe where the sower is sowing his message. First of all it is important to acknowledge that everyone, from all the people who have forgotten God, unto all the people who have drawn near to him, everyone is said to be “in the world.” “I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil (John 17:15).” “As he is, so are we in this world (1John 4:17).” “Ye shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:15).”

When scripture sounds its alarm against “loving the world,” it is insinuating that believers can corrupt themselves if they love and respect the laws of a religious doctrine over what God’s word truly says. “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men (Colossians 2:8).” “Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition (Mark 7:9).” God plans to overthrow the vain philosophies of every religion, therefore every profitable believer should be studying the scriptures, and increasing their understanding of what God's word truly says. “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him… The world passeth away, and the lusts thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever (1John 2:15-17).” “The fashion of this world passeth away (1Corinthians 7:31).” “Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith (1John 5:4).” Believers need to overcome their love of religious doctrine, because it contains, mistaken, albeit widely accepted, and well rehearsed beliefs.

The word "field" reveals something about the sower, as well as about the people that are hearing his message. “Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest (John 4:35).” In prophecy, the parable word “field” pertains to everywhere that the covenant message is being heard, even though, and during the while, its controversial parts are being silenced. “The meat offering and the drink offering is withholden from the house of your God (Joel 1:13).” Evidence concerning the parable meaning of the word “field,” is found in an old testament account which prophesy's truths about the Assyrian. It has already been established, as well as verified with evidence, that, in prophecy, the parable words, "king of Assyria," and "the Assyrian," pertain to one specific Christian prophet, and his followers. These are the leaders that been dealing with the newly discovered truths of prophecy. Anyways, the afore mentioned old testament account links the parable word "field," with the Assyrian. The old testament account is in itself a parable, and in it the word "field" was rehearsed and promoted several times. Listen not only to the repetition, but also to how this word was placed in this particular parable: for it manifests evidence that the parable word "field" pertains unto every person who has ever sat under the teachings and persuasions of the Assyrian. “Behold, the Assyrian was a cedar in Lebanon… his height was exalted above all the trees of the field… under his branches did all the beasts of the field bring forth their young… In the day when he went down to the grave… I caused Lebanon to mourn for him, and all the trees of the field fainted for him (From Ezekiel chapter 31).”

Despite seeming to the contrary, God allowed and caused the Assyrian to fulfill his word, and his ways have resulted in a delightsome field. “Be not afraid, ye beasts of the field: for the pastures of the wilderness do spring, for the tree beareth her fruit, the fig tree and the vine do yield their strength (Joel 2:22).” “Your vine shall not cast her fruit before the time in the field (Malachi 3:11).” “You shall go out with joy… and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands (Isaiah 55:12).” So the church's time in the field was purposed to be a time of exercise, wherein believers were increasing, as well as gaining back some of their strength. Bear in mind that the field is where the sower of our parable is sowing his message, therefore it is concluded that the sower is himself, an Assyrian.

The parable continues: “But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way (Matthew 13:25).” Confirming that men are sleeping is evidence that some Christians are not paying enough attention, and they are allowing mistakes to be made. “The tares are the children of the wicked one; the enemy that sowed them is the devil (Matthew 13:38-39).” Who is the wicked person that sowed these tares? He is anyone, even a visiting evangelist, who has stood before the Lord’s congregation and rehearsed old religious doctrines which are contrary to God’s will for end times. Every ignorant and uninformed person who is still teaching traditional religious beliefs, is subjecting God’s people to deceit and confusion. Evidence of God’s opinion on the matter resounds in the words: “I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam… So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against thee with the sword of my mouth (Revelation 2:14-16).”

“Tares are the children of the wicked one (Matthew 13:38).“ The parable word “tares” applies to confused and deceived believers that sat in the congregation under the influence of an ignorant and uniformed sower, and they received the Holy Spirit when God's adversary taught them his traditional and religious ways. Tares are, by the design of their father, eager to contend for their religious beliefs, and ardently opposed to conversion. “The wicked… go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies (Psalm 58:3).” “I beseech thee, look upon my son… A spirit taketh him… and it teareth him… As Jesus was yet a-coming, the devil threw him down, and it tare him (from Luke 9:38-42).”

“Wheat” on the other hand, is a name which pertains to good believers that perceive God’s hand in the activities of end times. These believers rejoice, and are eager to come into the Lord's house for healing, and for greater understanding. God placed the name "wheat" upon these believers because of the obvious relationship that wheat has with bread: the awakenings of the multitudes of people which will come into the house of the Lord, will be a sign, for it will be the bread of enlightenment which will convince many a naysayer. “Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of the Lord, for wheat, and for wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the herd: and their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all (Jeremiah 31:12).”

The parable continues: “But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also (Matthew 13:26).” The blade is another anticipated sign, and it will be the unmistakeable indication that it is harvest time. “Then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven (Matthew 24:30).” Certain men are waiting for this sign. “Be patient… unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it (James 5:7).” Having patience is part of God’s plan, insomuch that a season of patient waiting fulfills scripture. Patience was necessary because it insured that every priest had an opportunity to hear God’s end time plan. Men have been patiently waiting because God seemingly indicated that his people should wait for a prophet’s words to come to pass, before they regard his message. “When a prophet speaketh in the name of the Lord, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him (Deuteronomy 18:22).” Wherefore, the Assyrian and his helpers felt it necessary to silence the controversial parts of God’s message, until after they had seen the Lord’s unmistakeable sign. “I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe (John 13:19).” But should the priesthood be continuing to wait for a sign? "An evil and adulterous nation seeketh after a sign (Matthew 12:39)." It is not a good thing, especially since some of the understanding which was first proclaimed in the covenant message, has already come to pass.

The “blade” is Nebuchadnezzar, whose name in prophecy pertains to a righteous Islamic prophet whom God hath chosen (Isaiah 41:2). The blade will come, and furthermore, he will make his debut, and his sudden appearance, in Ariel. “Woe to Ariel… I will camp against thee… and thou shalt be brought down… it shall be at an instant suddenly. Thou shalt be visited of the Lord of hosts with thunder, and with earthquake, and great noise, with storm and tempest, and the flame of devouring fire (from Isaiah 29:1-6).” “The Lord shall cause his glorious voice to be heard… For through the voice of the Lord shall the Assyrian be beaten down (Isaiah 30:30-31).” “Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh… a day of darkness… a great people and a strong; there hath never been the like… yea, and nothing shall escape them (from Joel 2:1-3).” Hear once again that verse concerning the tares, and the blade: "But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also (Matthew 13:26)." These words more, or less confirm that the tares will not be a problem until after the blade makes his debut.

“So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? From whence then hath it tares? He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go gather them up? But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of the harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn (Matthew 13:27-30).” Note how the words “householder” and “servants” elicit their confirmation that this parable is about a priest, and his church. Before believers can understand this priest’s response, the parable words “reapers” and “harvest” must be interpreted and defined.

“The harvest is the end of the world; and reapers are the angels (Matthew 13:39).” A good place to start is by examining the word “angel.” This word conjures up images of a spiritual beings, but according to God’s word, Spirit led believers are also called, angels. This is easily understood by studying the Hebrew and Greek words which were translated into the words “angel” and “angels.” These same words were also translated into the words, ambassadors, messengers, apostles, and even into the word, God. Wherefore, angels are believers with sincere hearts, and they desire to do their part for the Lord: they are the Lord's messengers. Additional evidence concerning the word, angels, is found in the book of Revelation, wherein Jesus wrote messages to the "angels" of the seven churches. Unfortunately, even “angels” can be deceived. Deceived angels are serving their leaders, and not God, which is why Satan has angels. “The angels which kept not their first estate… he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day (Jude 6).”

“Reapers” are end time angels, which are sent out with their priest's message, to gather the people. “He shall send his angels with the great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other (Matthew 24:31).” Reapers who are following after false teachers, will be gathering the offended into assemblies wherein religion is still being taught. “He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity (Proverbs 22:8).” “Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up (Matthew 15:13).” “Angels… shall gather out of his kingdom all things which offend, and them which do iniquity (Matthew 13:41).” “Then shall he say… Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41).”

As for the meaning of the parable word, harvest: “The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest (Matthew 9:37-38).” The secret to interpreting the parable word “harvest,” is to understand that each and every priest is his very own, “Lord of the harvest.” Priests have a certain amount of control over harvest day. Harvest day happens on the day that a priest either confesses the newly revealed truths of prophecy from his pulpit, or else he uses his influence and persuasion to try to convince his congregation to work against the Lord's message. “When the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come (Mark 4:29).” On the day that a priest utters his sentiments, his angels will go forth with his answer, and they will work to convince others to come to their places of assembly for greater understanding. So while some reapers are gathering the righteous, other reapers will be working to gather the disgruntled into the furnace of affliction. “Cut off… him that handleth the sickle in time of harvest (Jeremiah 50:16).” “They have sown wheat, but they shall reap thorns (Jeremiah 12:13).”

Hear again the sower’s response unto his servants. “He said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of the harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn (Matthew 13:27-30).” This priest is showing mercy in that he is allowing time for the deceived to be healed and converted, but his response is especially meant to be a warning, as well as an instruction: for reasons of peace within the congregation, God's people should not go forth to correct an individual’s theological mindset until after the priest has confessed the truths of the covenant message before the congregation. “I beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love: endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is… one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all (Ephesians 4:1-6).”

“As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of the kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; and they shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 13:40-42).” This verse is evidence that believers who are promoting the mistaken messages of false teachers, will be gathering the rebellious into places of worship that are filled with unrest, and conflict. The parable word “furnace” pertains to the tumults and conflicts which will be taking place among the deceived all the while that religion is being debated. God factored the furnace into his plan. The unrest within these places of worship will cause the righteous to seek for the truth of God's word, before Judgment Day. “The house of Israel is to me become dross… therefore I will gather you… into the midst of the furnace, to blow the fire upon it… and I will leave you there, and melt you (Ezekiel 22:18-20).” The word “fire” conjures up images of the raging passions of infuriated believers as they protest, and blame one another for messing up, and for making religious mistakes. These fires will be burning until the day that believers perceive their need to be charitable and forgiving, or until Judgment Day, when God causes all religious mistakes, and the power of religious deceit, to be burnt up and destroyed forever.

Another gift: There are three short kingdom of heaven parables included in the thirteenth chapter of the book of Matthew. Although the lessons of these parables are brief, they are good insight for end times. The remainder of this message is dedicated to these three short parables.

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field (Matthew 13:44).” This parable manifests the response of believing priests as they rejoice in finding and perceiving the truths of the covenant message. “Buy the truth and sell it not (Proverbs 23:23).” These priests have already bought the truth of the message, wherefore they have left behind every religious law, and every religious mistake that their forefathers and teachers ever taught them. They are wholeheartedly, albeit secretively, following after this message. “In the house of the righteous is much treasure (Proverbs 15:6).”

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it (Matthew 13:45-46).” The parable word “pearl,” pertains to hearing honest and sincere words of wisdom. The word “merchant” is God’s clever way of depicting a modern day prophet. Prophets are like merchants in that they buy and sell the truths of scripture. Let me elaborate: Modern day prophets seek for inspired truths among faithful believers, and when they hear words of wisdom, they rework the inspirations that they have found into their own inspired messages, which they sell for profit. When believers apply the meanings of these two words unto the parable, then the interpretation of the parable is that some of today’s prophets were seeking after good and honest words, when they came across the covenant message. Its good counsel caused these merchants to give up everything, all of their former works, and all of their former beliefs, in order to follow after its message and hear the newly revealed truths of prophecy. “If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast… and come and follow me (Matthew 19:21).”

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind: which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, and shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 13:47-50).” First of all, think upon the words “when it was full.” These words provide proof and evidence that God allowed for there to be a sustained period of waiting: it was a necessary part of his plan. Next, it is important to acknowledge that God is preparing a net for the purpose of catching rebellious leaders in it. “I will spread my net upon them; I will bring them down as the fowls of the heaven; I will chastise them, as their congregation hath heard (Hosea 7:12).” “Take up a lamentation for Pharaoh… I will spread out my net over thee with a company of many people; and they shall bring thee up in my net (Ezekiel 32:2-3).”

“As fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them (Ecclesiastes 9:12).” Keep in mind that the net is prepared exclusively for the rebellious: it is how God intends to force the rebellious to listen to the newly revealed truths of prophecy. Scripture is God’s voice, and through it God has commanded his people to watch, and to listen diligently to, and do those things that the word instructs them to do. God used the tenor of this commandment to affirm that during end times it is the responsibility of every believing priest to be diligently listening and watching for the newly revealed understandings of prophecy. The covenant message is revealing the hidden truths of God's end time message: through it believers are receiving knowledge and understanding, which is a gift from God. This gift is intended for the good of all God's people, for it is purposed to cause priests to know how to safely guide their congregations through the turmoils of end times. “Those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law (Deuteronomy 29:29).” It is not unreasonable to conclude that every religious leader who is still ignoring the newly revealed truths of prophecy, is without excuse; for they have rebelled against keeping God's commandment.

“In their affliction they will seek me early (Hosea 5:15).” God is allowing the covenant message to send out his warning: affliction will be poured upon every religious leader that refused to hear God's end time message. This is one of the newly revealed truths of prophecy, and it is a big one, for it is the "net" of God's word. When believing priests get caught in this net and they are forced to endure the reality of affliction; then they will be anxious to learn the newly revealed truths of prophecy. Whereas unbelieving priests who get caught in this net are simply tossed back and they disappear into the sea, the parable is indicating that angels will be gathering believing priests with some measure of goodness in the into vessels, and they will be casting them into the furnace. The furnace is where they will tested and made perfect. It is a place of correction, and punishment. The scriptures testify that God will be with these priests throughout their ordeal, and he will defend them. Once they have been perfected, then God will be judging their enemies. “Unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work (Psalm 62:12).”

Jesus' Parables Give Answers to Prophecy

The Parable of the Sower

When Jesus walked the earth he taught parables concerning the kingdom of God, but neither the people which heard him, nor the generations which followed, ever truly understood that Jesus' parables were purposed to provide answers for end times, when Jesus' kingdom would set up, and when religion would have its end. In the book of Psalms God documented evidence that he planned to conceal certain truths in parables (Psalm 78:2); but the greatest documented evidence that God planned to hide and conceal prophetic understanding in the parables is found in the book of Matthew: “I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world (Matthew 13:35).” Consider this verse very carefully, for it suggests that before the time of the end God planned to give his people answers concerning the sealed up and well hidden, elusive mysteries of the kingdom, and that those answers would come unto them, through parables. “There is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad (Mark 4:22).” You see then how the covenant message is fulfilling scripture, for it uses the parables of God's word to open God's mouth, and through its message, God utters his secrets of old.

One of the parables that Jesus taught the people was a parable about a sower who went out to sow. This parable is recorded in the gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. When Jesus was finished teaching this lesson to the people, his disciples came unto him and they asked him what the parable should mean, and why he spoke to the people in parables. Jesus said: “Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables (Luke 8:10).” In other words, not only do parables conceal the prophetic message, but they are also serve as a way to divide the righteous, from the rebellious. Through parables God speaks answers to the righteous, and he increases their understanding. “He opened their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures (Luke 24:45).” At the same time, parables confuse and confound the rebellious. “That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them (Mark 4:12).” “The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished (2Peter 2:9).”

“What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction (Roman 9:22)?” Parables hide scripture's truths from the imposters that pose as believers among God's people. These imposters refuse to believe God. Therefore God will fulfill his word, and on Judgment Day he will pour chastening affliction upon them.  “For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before ordained to this condemnation (Jude 4).” “The Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints… to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed (Jude 14-15).” Only a remnant of God's people will believe and follow the guidance of Jesus' parables, and they are the very ones that will be saved and delivered from the afflictions of end times. “Esaias cried concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved (Romans 9:27)."  “He himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire (1Corinthians 3:15).”

"Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:18).” As with all the other parables of scripture, Jesus’ parables also have one perfect solution, and one provable meaning. The perfect solution for Jesus’ parables is not only determined by examining each written account of the parable, but also by finding the perfect meaning behind each parable word within the parable. God placed parable words in prophecy, and every scripture reference to that word, can, and should be used to help believer's determine the perfect meaning of the parable word. Ultimately, discerning the meaning of the parable words gives proper interpretation to the parable. To better understand these things, consider two examples: the true and perfect meaning of the word “sower,” is someone who shares the kingdom message and testifies unto others, telling them how they can receive the Holy Spirit; and the true and perfect meaning of the word “seed,” is putting the message of salvation into the hearts and minds of willing listeners.

Believers can prove the true and perfect meaning of each and every parable word. Consider how the perfect meaning of the word "sower" was revealed: within the parable of the sower is evidence, that, in scripture, the word "sower"pertains exclusively to persons who are sharing one particular message. According to the interpretation given, Jesus specified that those who are hearing the sower's message, are hearing the kingdom message: “When one heareth the word of the kingdom (Matthew 13:19).” Above everything else, the kingdom message is one of telling others how they can receive the Holy Spirit. “For, behold, the kingdom of God is within you (Luke 17:21).” So the parable word "sower," applies exclusively to believers that are sharing the kingdom message, and telling others how they can receive the Holy Spirit; but don’t be deceived, for even the devil sows his own version of a kingdom message. “The tares are the children of the wicked one; and the enemy that sowed them is the devil (Matthew 13:38-39).”

The perfect meaning of the parable word “seed,” is discrete, for it is hidden. The verse which is most responsible for hiding the true meaning of the word, reads: “The parable is this, the seed is the word of God (Luke 8:11).” This verse is responsible for hiding the perfect meaning of the parable word "seed" because there is, and can only be, one true and perfect meaning for each and every parable word. In prophecy, the word “seed” pertains to the kingdom message being put into the hearts and minds of believers, which is something that God alone does, and that only God can do. “The children of promise are counted for the seed (Romans 9:8).” So why are there two seemingly different meanings for the same parable word, or do they agree together in one? God covenanted with his people, which means that he lifted up his hand and he swore to the people, testifying he would make them have seed, and that he would multiply their seed. So the verse that is concealing the true meaning of the parable word "seed," is actually testifying that every new convert is a fulfillment of God’s promise to give us seed. “The seed is the word of God (Luke 8:11).” If believers will faithfully tell others the kingdom message, then God is faithful to give them seed. In other words, God will cause those who hear their message to recognize the truth of his word, for he will confirm the matter to their hearts and minds. “For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts (Hebrew 8:10).”

When believers find the true and perfect meanings behind the parable words of Jesus' parables, they find answers to the prophetic sealed up mysteries of end times. The parable of the sower answers the question: How will God keep his people from the hour of temptation? For God made promise to his people in the book of Revelation, saying: “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth (Revelation 3:10).” The answer is: by increasing their knowledge and understanding. The parable of the sower examines the four places wherein those that receive the revealed truths of prophecy, will fall, and it provides counsel which will help guide and keep them from temptation. Now for the interpretation of the parable:

1. “When anyone heareth the word of the kingdom, and understands it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side (Matthew 13:19).” First, notice how in this verse involves two parties: there are the hearers, but there are also the wicked ones. Luke’s account refers to the wicked ones as the devil, and Mark calls them Satan; but all three gospel accounts agree together that fowls will come and devour up the believers which are by the way side. The covenant message has previously reported, and verified with evidence, that in prophecy, the parable word “fowl” pertains to a priest, or a religious leader who has heard the kingdom message, but who continues to tell lies and preach inaccuracies against it. Further proof concerning the identity of the devourers can be discerned from Jesus’ rebukes  of the priests and elders of his day, for he accused them of being of their father the devil (John 8:44); and he reprimanded Peter, calling him Satan. “Get behind me, Satan… for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men (Matthew 16:23).” In essence, every leader who hears the kingdom message and continues to work against it, is behaving himself as Satan and the devil, and as the wicked one, and as fowls that swallow up good seed. “You have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered (Luke 11:52).”

Next, consider those people which heard the kingdom message, yet still fell by the way side. Keep in mind that everyone who has received the message is called, seed. This group of seed heard the kingdom message, and they probably even witnessed evidence of the Holy Spirit, but they didn’t understand it. “When anyone heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not…this is he which received seed by the way side (Matthew 13:19).” Jesus revealed the secret of this seed's mistake, in the words, “Then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved (Luke 8:12).” Their mistake is one of neglecting God's word, and of relying upon false teachers for additional understanding. Believers should not rely upon a teacher for end time understanding: they must consult the scriptures for themselves, and study the covenant message. Our new covenant is a requirement to learn of Jesus, and to continue to learn of him until you walk together in agreement with the Holy Spirit. The number one lesson which is learned from the seeds by the way side, is that believers must reject the counsel of any teacher who tries to convince them that what they have heard, or witnessed, or experienced, wasn't the truth. Rely upon God, and upon his word for guidance, and in love correct the deceived. “Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience (Ephesians 5:6).”

Walk in the Spirt, and speak of those things that you have witnessed, and experienced, as well as what you have learned, especially with your priest, but also with  people that have authority over the congregation. If they won't hear you or receive your testimony, then you are instructed to leave that place. “Whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when you depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet (Matthew 10:14).” “There were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you… and many shall follow their pernicious ways (2Peter 2:1-2).” “Take heed what ye hear (Mark 4:24).” “Take heed… how ye hear (Luke 8:18).” “For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath (Matthew 13:12).” “Hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown (Revelation 3:11).”

2. “Some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture (Luke 8:6).” Additional truths which are written against the seeds that fell upon the rock, include: they are in stony places which have no depth of earth, they have no roots, and they will wither away and be offended when the sun comes up, and it scorches them. Before believers can perceive the true meaning of the second lesson, interpretations for the parable words, rock, sun, stone, and stony places, must be discerned.

The perfect meaning of the parable word “rock” is the Lord, and his teachings. “That rock was Christ (1Corinthians 10:4).” “Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock (Matthew 7:24).” The perfect meaning for the words "stony places", or "stony ground," is that these parable words represent places of worship wherein believers are in Christ, howsoever the newly revealed truths of prophecy are not being taught. The parable word "stone" pertains to believers, who, through the Holy Spirit confess that Jesus is Lord. Evidence concerning the meaning of this word is found in a response which Jesus gave unto Simon Peter, when Peter stood and confessed before his fellow disciples, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jo-na: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it (Matthew 16:16-18).” The word "stone" is only implied in the verse, however if believer's investigate Jesus' response they will perceive that God's people are blessed, if, and when the Holy Spirit confirms the matter of Jesus' identity unto them: then afterwards, if they confess before others who Jesus is, and what he did for them, then they become the stones of his building. “Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house (1Peter 2:5).” “The foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones (Revelation 21:19).”

The perfect meaning of the word “sun” is best revealed by considering a few subtle clues which are written about the sun. “The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; and shall cast them into the furnace of fire… Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father (Matthew 13:41-43).” Well said, albeit cleverly worded, because the scriptures reveal that the sun is residing in controversy. “The sun knoweth his going down (Psalm 104:19).” In prophecy, the word, sun, is the parable name given to religious leaders that are ignorant of the covenant message. These leaders have been preoccupied with their own thoughts and beliefs, wherefore they have continued to say and teach things that disagree with God’s end time message. For the sun’s grievous mistake, it will be punished, and it will be ashamed. “The moon shall be confounded and the sun ashamed, when the Lord of hosts shall reign in Mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients gloriously (Isaiah 24:23).” “The sun shall be turned into darkness… before the great and terrible day of the Lord come (Joel 2:31).” The truths about the sun's destiny are non-negotiable, for there is no place for the sun in new Jerusalem. “The city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof (Revelation 21:23).” "There shall in no wise enter into it anything that... maketh a lie (Revelation 21:27)."

As for the seeds which fell into stony places, these believers are worshipping in places wherein their teachers have not yet heard the covenant message. This is not only confirmed by their withered condition, but also by Jesus' confession that the sun will scorch them. Jesus testified that those who fall into stony places will receive the Holy Spirit with joy. This insinuates that they will believe the covenant message for awhile, but Jesus also reported that in the time of temptation they will fall away (Luke 8:13). The mistake of these believers is one of turning from the Lord, for they get anxious, and offended, and impatient. “You have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise (Hebrews 10:36).” “In your patience possess ye your souls (Luke 21:19).” These seeds are said to have no root, so let these words be a reminder that all believers are to be “rooted" in the word of God, and grounded in love (Ephesians 3:17),” “built up in Christ, and established in the faith (Colossians 2:7).” Believers that are in stony places are to speak to their leaders, and if their leaders receive them, and hear their testimonies, then they are instructed to remain there and be patient. Spend time on your knees and read God's word, as well as the covenant message, so that you can be living water, and so that you will not be scorched, or withered, or tempted. It will be tempting to get angry when your informed leaders aren't expedient to change their messages, but don't get discouraged and leave, for God can use you there where you are, so remain there, and be patient. “If they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth (Matthew 24:26).” “In the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils (1Timothy 4:1).” “Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up (Matthew 15:13).”

Jesus prophesied that in the last days “many shall be offended (Matthew 24:10),” and Paul testified that “that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first (2Thessalonians 2:3).” Both of these prophecies seemingly indicate that many believers will be in “stony places” in the last days. Hang in there, and keep praying, for God's word insinuates, as well as testifies, that God will correct every insensitive leader that refuses to receive the truth of his message from his messengers. “Woe unto the world because of offences! For it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh (Matthew 18:7)!” “Whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were downed in the depth of the sea (Matthew 18:6).”

3. “Some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit (Mark 4:7).” Thorns are evil and wicked congregations, which are being led by teachers that reject certain truths in God’s word. “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing… You shall know them by their fruits… for every corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit (Matthew 7:15-18).” The seeds which fell among thorns, have fallen into places of worship wherein God will destroy the ways of everyone around them. “That which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned (Hebrews 6:8).” Their leaders are false teachers which do not have the Holy Spirit. “Because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will reject thee, that thou shalt be no priests to me (Hosea 4:6).” And furthermore, these leaders are covetous, ungodly, and unjust. “Them that walk after the flesh in the lusts of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, self-willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities (2Peter 2:10).”

The seeds which fall into these conditions are prone to coming up with excuses of why they cannot serve the Lord, or help him promote the kingdom message. Their mistake is revealed in the words: “And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful (Mark 4:19).” If those who fall among thorns would share what they learned and experienced with a fellow believer, then God would cause them to be fruitful; but Jesus confided that these seeds are unfruitful, which insinuates that they will elect to keep silent, for they lack confidence in the Lord. Believers who fall among thorns must die to their own selfish worries and concerns, in order to experience eternal life in Christ. “Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abides alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit (John 12:24).” “Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13).” “Ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that you should be married to another, even to him that is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God (Romans 7:4).”

The next few verses are testimonies of encouragement for believers that have fallen among the thorns, and this encouragement begins with an explanation of why it is imperative to speak up and confess the truth.“Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou not know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead (James 2:19-20)?” “Herein is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit; so shall you be my disciples (John 15:8).” Before contemplating the next words of encouragement, keep in mind that, in prophecy, the parable word "angel" applies to flesh and blood people: they are believers that have the Holy Spirit. “I say unto you… Be not afraid of them that kill the body… fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him… Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: but he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God (Luke 12:4-9).” To paraphrase the conclusion of the testimony concerning angels, Jesus verified that he will cause some of his followers to rise up before the authorities and defend those persons who have confessed him before the unbelieving; but the opposite applies to those believers that deny Jesus, and that keep silent before men. Therefore, stand boldly and with confidence confess the Lord Jesus, and his word. “I give unto thee power... over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you (Luke 10:19).”

4. “Other seed fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold (Luke 8:8).” “Those which fell on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience (Luke 8:15).” The seeds which fell on good ground are the believers whose leaders paid attention to God’s word, and so they are promoting the covenant message. These seeds have work to do for the Lord. “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15).” “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach except they be sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things (Romans 10:13-15).” “The earth bringeth forth fruit of herself (Mark 4:28).” God's people are being commissioned to go out and spread the truth of his end time message. This will swiftly bring additional seed into God's house, and God will multiply their seed. “Immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region (Mark 1:28).” The seeds on good ground, will, “hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred (Mark 4:20).”

A concluding message: Since Jesus’ doctrine and his messages were meant for everyone in the world, did you ever stop and wonder why Jesus commanded his disciples, “Go not into the way of the Gentiles… But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel (Matthew 10:5-6)?” Or why the Apostle Paul found it necessary to rehearse the words, “To the Jew first, but also to the Gentile”? These things are written as pattern, for they verify the way that God works: God brings the understanding of what he is doing unto his people first, then his message will go out through his people unto those who have not known him. Consider once again how these things provide evidence that the covenant message is the truth, for its message is going out unto the leaders of God's people, first.

In one of Jesus’ other parables, a certain king prepared a wedding supper for his son. Then the king sent out his servants to call those that were bidden to the feast, but the invited guests made light of it, and gave out their excuses and would not come, even mistreating and killing some of his messengers. When the king heard these things, and he was wroth, “and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then he said to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage (Matthew 22:7-9).” This evidence is suggesting that end times are going to be a time of great confusion, wherein God's people are going to be making mistakes. This is further proof of the truth of the covenant message, for believers will need for spend time studying God's message in order to avoid confusion. The covenant message has everything to the marriage supper, and its message was prepared expressly for the purpose of bringing end time understanding and truth unto every priest and prophet that is within God's priesthood. Priests are to come and receive knowledge, and they are to stop telling lies, and remaining silent. "I tell you that, if these should hold their piece, the stones would immediately cry out (Luke 19:40)." These messages are full of instruction and knowledge which is necessary for the deliverance of God's people during end times, therefore it is crucial to promote and advertise the existence of these messages.

Think about a message that Jesus spoke unto the religious authorities and rulers of his day, saying, “Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes? Therefore I say unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof (Matthew 21:42-43).” Since Jesus, and his teachings are referred to as the rock, who then is the stone that the builders rejected? Could the old testament's reference to a "stone" pertain to a prophet? (Psalm 118:22-23). If so, then aren't these verses implying that the priesthood will reject God's prophet? And shouldn't the implication of these warnings make the priesthood horribly afraid (Jeremiah 51:26)? “Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you (Matthew 21:31).” "Many that are first shall be last; and the last first (Matthew 19:30)." “He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God (John 1:11-12).”

Obadiah's Message Concerning Edom

“The vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord God concerning Edom; We have heard a rumor from the Lord, and an ambassador is sent among the heathen, Arise ye, and let us rise up against her in battle (Obadiah 1).” Obadiah's vision concerns Edom, but since God has called Esau's name Edom, this prophecy is actually testifying truths which pertain to the nation of Islam (Genesis 36:1). The first few verses of Obadiah's vision are nearly replicated in the book of Jeremiah, thus giving believers two accountings of the same vision. There are only a few, very slight, and seemingly insignificant differences within the wordings of these two nearly replicated portions of scripture, however every subtle difference works like a flag which marks something of significance towards the interpretation of the prophecy (Jeremiah 49:13-16). For instance, when Jeremiah's account testifies that an ambassador is sent among the heathen, the word "gather" is added to the prophecy. The inclusion of this word serves to suggest that this ambassador is attempting to bring all of the Islamic nation together, as one. “I have heard a rumor from the Lord, and an ambassador is sent among the heathen, saying, Gather ye together, and come against her, and rise up to the battle (Jeremiah 49:14).” “They know not the thoughts of the Lord, neither understand his counsel: for he shall gather them as the sheaves into the floor (Micah 4:12).”

To grasp what God testifying in the book of Obadiah, believers must perceive and know that in God's eyes, all of his people dwell among the heathen. “I will take you from among the heathen… and will bring you into your own land (Ezekiel 36:24).” For additional evidence concerning this truth, note that the Hebrew word which was translated into the word “heathen” was also translated into the words: people, gentiles, and nations. Verses which contain this word suggest that it pertains to everyone who does not know the Lord in truth, even persons within our assemblies of worship. That very same Hebrew word was used in the verses: “He shall bring forth judgment to the gentiles (Isaiah 42:1).” “He shall judge among the nations (Isaiah 2:4),” “He shall judge among the heathen (Psalm 110:6).” Before reviewing one final piece of evidence which suggests that the word "heathen" can apply to people within God's house, keep in mind that our God is a righteous judge, and that he will judge between heathen, and heathen. “As for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle (Ezekiel 34:17).” “Pour out thy wrath upon the heathen that have not known thee, and upon kingdoms that have not called upon thy name (Psalm 79:6).” 

“Behold, I have made thee small among the heathen: thou art greatly despised (Obadiah 2).” In Jeremiah’s nearly replicated version of this verse, the words “have made” are scribed “will make.” This barely noticeable and seemingly insignificant change of wording, reminds believers that God calls those things which are not, as though they have already been. In essence, this change of wording causes believers to perceive and know that there is coming a day in the which the counsel of these ambassadors will be turned back upon their own heads. “For, lo, I will make thee small among the heathen, and despised among men (Jeremiah 49:15).” The ambassador that is working to gather all the Islamic nation together as one, is Moab, so therefore it is important to know just who that name pertains to. The name "Moab" is a parable name in prophecy, and it pertains to a group of Islamic priests and prophets that have been dealing with the covenant message. They are, and were, offended by it, so they are keeping some of its truths a secret. They have crafted together certain counsel for the purpose of discrediting Christianity. “The calamity of Moab is near to come (Jeremiah 48:16).” Many of the leaders that are following Moab's counsel will be left to suffer affliction, because Moab has turned back from seeking to do God's will, and he is compelling all of the Islamic nation to come against God's word. Consequently, many of the Muslim leaders that endure the affliction of God's wrath, will despise Moab. “Concerning the prophets that make my people err, that bite with their teeth, and cry, Peace; and he that putteth not into their mouths, they even prepare war against him (Micah 3:5).” 

“The pride of thine heart hath deceived thee, thou that dwellest in the clefts of the rock, whose habitation is high; that saith in his heart, Who shall bring me down to the ground (Obadiah 3)?” These reproving words incriminate Moab, because Moab's name is synonymous with pride. “We have heard the pride of  Moab (Jeremiah 48:29).” But definitive proof of Moab’s identity comes from Jeremiah's account of the vision, for it links Bozrah’s name to the prophecy, saying, “I have sworn by myself, saith the Lord, that Bozrah shall become a desolation, a reproach, a waste, and a curse; and all the cities thereof shall be perpetual wastes (Jeremiah 49:13).” Bozrah is a city of Moab (Jeremiah 48:24); and in prophecy, Bozrah's name pertains to the thoughts of the ambassadors that are gathering all of the Islamic nation together as one. “Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah (Isaiah 63:1)?” “I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as the sheep of Bozrah (Micah 2:12).” “The Lord hath a sacrifice in Bozrah, and a great slaughter in the land of Idumea (Isaiah 34:6).” 

“Though thou exalt thyself as the eagle, and though thou set thy nest among the stars, thence I will bring thee down, saith the Lord (Obadiah 4).” By comparing Moab's ego to that an exalted eagle, not only has God reproved Moab’s pride, but he also supplied evidence that Moab is very much aware of the covenant message. Jeremiah’s account of this verse suggests that Moab will lift himself up to be chief over the covenant message. Find evidence of this promotion in the words, "O thou... that holdest the height of the hill." These words are included in the verse: “Thy terribleness hath deceived thee, and the pride of thine heart, O thou that dwellest in the clefts of the rock, that holdest the height of the hill: though thou shouldest make thy nest as high as an eagle, I will bring thee down (Jeremiah 49:16).” 

So, despite all the evidences which were published against Moab's wicked counsel, Moab has continued to act in accordance with his own will. “Prophesy against the prophets of Israel that prophesy, and say thou unto them that prophesy out of their own hearts, Hear the word of the Lord… My hand shall be upon the prophets that see vanity, and that divine lies: they shall not be in the assembly of my people… because, even because they have seduced my people (Ezekiel 13:2; 13:9-10).” “They refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their ears… lest they should hear the law, and the words which the Lord of hosts hath sent in his spirit by the former prophets: therefore came a great wrath from the Lord of hosts (Zechariah 7:11-12).” The Lord our God has openly confessed that he would set his hand for a second time to recover his people from the nation of Islam (Isaiah 11:11), but Moab has despised God's instructions. “The soul that doeth aught presumptuously, whether he be born in the land, or a stranger, the same reproacheth the Lord; and that soul shall be cut off from among his people, because he hath despised the word of the Lord, and hath broken his commandment, that soul shall be utterly cut off; his iniquity shall be upon him (Numbers 15:30-31).” 

Another sobering thought which magnifies the effect of Obadiah’s vision, is that, for every truth which is prophesied against Moab, a similar truth was prophesied against the rebellious leaders of Christianity. Therefore, the reprimand of Obadiah's prophecy also pertains to every religious authority who despises God’s instructions, for they will all be made small, and despised in the eyes of God's people. God named the prideful ambassadors which are attempting to bring Christianity together as one, Assyrians. “The stout heart of the king of Assyria… for he saith… I gathered all the earth (Isaiah 10: 12-14).” As in the case of Moab, Assyrians have also despised parts of God's message, wherefore they too will be despised in the eyes of God's people (Isaiah 37:22). Most of their troubles are prophesied in verses which testify truths against Babylon; for example, Babylon is mounting up to heaven (Jeremiah 51:53). But the ultimate incriminating verse which reveals that the Assyrian's fate will be like that of Moab, is a verse which confirms that Babylon is working against the Lord, and it testifies that God has laid a snare against her: “How is the hammer of the whole earth cut asunder and broken! How is Babylon become a desolation among the nations! I have laid a snare for thee, and thou art also taken, O Babylon, and thou wast not aware: thou art found, and also caught, because thou hast striven against the Lord (Jeremiah 50:23-24).” “O priests, that despise my name… I also made you contemptible and base before all the people (Malachi 1:6; 2:9).” “I made thee a reproach to the heathen (Ezekiel 22:4).” “Behold, I will… make them like vile figs, that cannot be eaten, they are so evil (Jeremiah 29:17).” “God hath thrown down in his wrath the strong holds of the daughter of Judah; he hath brought them down to the ground: he hath polluted the kingdom and the princes thereof (Lamentations 2:2).”  

“If thieves came to thee, if robbers by night, (how art thou cut off!) would they not have stolen till they had enough? If grape gathers came to thee, would they not leave some grapes (Obadiah 5)?” This verse magnifies the awesome power that God has to fulfill his word: for God's word confirms that religion, with all of its deceit, and with all of its mistaken interpretations, would be utterly, entirely, and wholly, cut off! God will not leave any of his children trapped in the lies of men, even those newly forged lies which were devised by the likes of Moab, and the Assyrian. “None of them shall remain, nor of their multitude, nor any of theirs (Ezekiel 7:11).” “The Lord thy God will send the hornet among them, until they that are left, and hide themselves from thee, be destroyed (Deuteronomy 7:20).” 

Moab, even unwittingly, was blaspheming God’s name as he told lies, because he intended to keep the truths of the covenant message silent. He stood by, and watched, as Muslims rose up and murdered people of other religions, violently attacking them, and ruining their places of assembly. The power to stop these attacks was in his hands. Therefore, even though Moab may escape the affliction of God's initial pestilence, those who were seduced by his counsel will not escape, and they will be mad. “They will destroy till they have enough (Jeremiah 49:9).” Moab will witness it as his people begin to rise up and destroy their own nation, brother against brother, until he repents, and confesses the truth of God’s word. “Behold, I will bring evil upon them, which they shall not be able to escape; and though they cry unto me, I will not hearken unto them (Jeremiah 11:11).” “I have broken Moab like a vessel wherein is no pleasure… They shall howl, saying, How is it broken down! How hath Moab turned back with shame… Moab shall be destroyed from being a people, because he hath magnified himself against the Lord (Jeremiah 48:38-42).” “The ambassadors of peace shall weep bitterly (Isaiah 33:7).”

“How are the things of Esau searched out! How are his hidden things sought up (Obadiah 6)?” “I have made Esau bare, I have uncovered his secret places, and he shall not be able to hide himself: his seed is spoiled, and his brethren, and his neighbors, and he is not (Jeremiah 49:10).” To fully perceive the implications of these two verses, believers must perceive and know that Esau's name in prophecy pertains to everyone that despises the truth of God's word (Genesis 25:34). In this portion of the visions, God is testifying and insinuating that Moab, as well as the Assyrian, will not escape the noisome pestilences. For when the newly revealed truths of prophecy are broadcast throughout the land, then believers who suffered the pestilences will perceive which leaders hid the truth, and they will be mad. For this reason, everyone who is hiding the truth, is commanded to confess it before that Day (Jeremiah 21:12). “Thus saith the Lord my God; Feed the flock of slaughter; Whose possessors slay them, and hold themselves not guilty… and their own shepherds pity them not. For I will no more pity the inhabitants of the land… but, lo, I will deliver the men every one into his neighbor’s hand, and into the hand of his king: and they shall smite the land, and out of their hand I will not deliver them (Zechariah 11:4-6).” “Moab is spoiled, and gone up out of her cities (Jeremiah 48:15).” “The spoilers are come upon all the high places (Jeremiah 12:12).”

“All the men of thy confederacy have brought thee even to the border: the men that were at peace with thee have deceived thee, and prevailed against thee; they that eat thy bread have laid a wound under thee: there is none understanding in him (Obadiah 7).” The first part of this verse confesses that Moab's followers were taken in a snare, and the last part of the verse pertains to the snare which God has crafted against Moab. Moab, as well as the Assyrian, taught their followers powerful understandings of scripture which brought them even to the border of Zion: however they withheld certain truths which were necessary for God's people to enter into the everlasting gates: truths which also would have allowed believers to escape the pestilences. Both Moab, and the Assyrian, had doubts and fears about the message and its release, and so they remained silent. The conclusion of the verse testifies that the followers of these prophets will turn against them, for Moab and the Assyrian will be blamed for all their troubles, as well as their afflictions. The word "wound" suggests that these prophets will be wounded at heart, because Moab, and the Assyrian will be persecuted, and they will be misunderstood by their own followers. "They that eat thy bread have laid a wound under thee: there is none understanding in him." Their persecutions are God's snare, and the truth of the matter has been revealed unto them so that they might fear the things which are prophesied to come upon them, and turn their faces to God, seeking to do his will. 

“Shall I not in that day, saith the Lord, even destroy the wise men out of Edom, and understanding out of the mount of Esau (Obadiah 8)?” This outrageous question suggests that God will not leave any Islamic leader uncertain as to whether or not the covenant message is the truth, for from the lest of the prophets, even unto last priest that ever hears the covenant message; all of them will know that it is God’s hand. For this reason every wise leader should study to know the newly revealed truths and instructions of prophecy, because Judgment Day is reserved against everyone that refuses to follow God’s instructions, or that refuses to accept the new covenant (Zechariah 12:3). “The day of the Lord of hosts shall be upon everyone that is proud and lofty, and upon everyone that is lifted up (Isaiah 2:12).” “He respects not any that are wise of heart (Job 37:24).” “Be not wise in thine own eyes; fear the Lord, and depart from evil (Proverbs 3:7).” Whosoever is shown the truth of God’s word, is shown the truth so that they might rise up and warn others. “Arise and thresh, O daughter of Zion: for I will make thine horn iron, and I will make thy hoofs brass: and thou shalt beat in pieces many people: and I will consecrate their gain unto the Lord, and their substance unto the Lord of the whole earth (Micah 4:13).”

“And thy mighty men, O Teman, shall be dismayed, to the end that everyone of the mount of Esau may be cut off by slaughter (Obadiah 9).” In prophecy, the city of “Teman” pertains to devout Islamic leaders that are strong in faith. God’s messengers will convince these leaders to hear the covenant message. “I will send a fire upon Teman, which shall devour the palaces of Bozrah (Amos  1:12).” “In that day will I make the governors of Judah like a hearth of fire among wood, and like a torch of fire in a sheaf; and they shall devour all the people round about, on the right hand and on the left: and Jerusalem shall be inhabited again in her own place (Zechariah 12:6).” Even the wise men of Teman will need to study the covenant message, or else they will be ignorant of God’s instructions. 

“For thy violence against thy brother Jacob shame shall cover thee, and thou shalt be cut off for ever (Obadiah 10).” In prophecy, the parable name of “Jacob” pertains to every faithful believer that was shown the truth of God’s word, regardless of whether or not they are familiar with the covenant message. God is with Jacob, and God protects Jacob: however, even believers that know the truth of God's word will need to have their end time understandings perfected. “Fear thou not, O Jacob my servant, saith the Lord: for I am with thee… I will not make a full end of thee, but will correct thee in measure; yet will I not leave thee wholly unpunished (Jeremiah 46:28).” God is bringing an army against Jacob, and Jacob will be forced to suffer the army's misunderstandings. God's army is not exclusively meant for a punishment, but it is also a way for God to get Jacob's attention, for Jacob needs to receive knowledge. The fierceness of God’s army will convince Jacob to forsake his own ways, and he will turn and go in the way of the Lord. “The Lord… will punish Jacob according to his ways (Hosea 12:2).” Once again read the words of Obadiah's verse, and consider them carefully: for this verse yields evidence that the armies which came against Jacob, violently mistreated him; and this verse also yields evidence that after Jacob has been corrected, then his persecutors will be punished, as well as destroyed (Deuteronomy 30:7).  

“In the day that thou stoodest on the other side, in the day that the strangers carried away captive his forces, and foreigners entered into his gates, and cast lots upon Jerusalem, even thou wast as one of them (Obadiah 11).” This verse yields evidence that some of the mighty priests and prophets of Teman participated in Jacob’s hurt, and they did it after they were fighting on behalf of the covenant message. In other words, even though they were aware of the covenant message, these leaders continued to despise and neglect God's instructions. Certain details of their offenses are listed in the next several verses of Obadiah’s prophecy. Each listed offense is also an implied instruction, which means that paying attention to this list can help believers avoid punishment, as well as wrath. 

“Thou shouldest not have looked on the day of thy brother in the day that he became a stranger; neither shouldest thou have rejoiced over the children of Judah in the day of their destruction; neither shouldest thou have spoken proudly in the day of distress (Obadiah 12).” This verse suggests that God is against believers that mistreat the deceived by inciting violence against them, or by boasting against them with degrading remarks, or condemnations, or even with celebratory comments. “In my adversity they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together: yea, the abjects gathered themselves together against me, and I knew it not; they did tear me, and ceased not (Psalm 35:15).” Avoid making this mistake, for all of God's people are commanded not to strive, but they are to teach one another with kindness, and with patience (2Timothy 2:24).  

“Thou shouldest not have entered into the gate of my people in the day of their calamity; yea, thou shouldest not have looked on their affliction in the day of their calamity, nor have laid hands on their substance in the day of their calamity (Obadiah 13).” God will not give the armies of heaven an inheritance from sanctuaries which already exist. The armies of heaven will be inheriting newly converted persons which were not counted among God’s people. “He hath shown his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen (Psalm 111:6).” “Ask of me, and I will give thee the heathen for thine inheritance (Psalm 2:8).” God's armies are commissioned to go forth bearing the newly revealed truths of prophecy, as well as God's new covenant. Their desire should be to educate the deceived, and to cause them to acknowledge the new covenant. If an army is going forth for any other purpose, it will not prevail. “That which he labored for shall he restore, and shall not swallow it down: according to his substance shall the restitution be, he shall not rejoice therein (Job 20:18).” 

“Neither shouldest thou have stood in the crossway, to cut off those of his that did escape; neither shouldest thou have delivered up those of his that did remain in the day of distress (Obadiah 14).” This portion of the prophetic message suggests that some Islamic leaders will withhold their understanding of the newly revealed truths of prophecy from their Muslim brothers. They will subtly and quietly stand by, supposing, not only to bring affliction upon Christians, but also to cause those whom they hated in times past, to violate God’s laws and be afflicted. God’s word forbids believers to abstain from warning others. If believers deliberately fail to warn others, then they become guilty of the sins of those whom they failed to warn (Ezekiel 3:18-21). “Wherefore commit ye this great evil against your souls, to cut off from you man and woman, child and suckling, out of Judah, to leave none to remain; in that ye provoke me unto wrath with the works of your hands… that ye might cut yourselves off, and that ye might be a curse and a reproach among all the nations of the earth (Jeremiah 44:7-8)?” 

“For the day of the Lord is near upon all the heathen: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head (Obadiah 15).” Whereas God's people are charged with teaching the world the prophetic message, and warning them against breaking God's laws, and this verse underscores the reason why it is so important to study God's message, and follow his instructions. The prophecy of this verse insinuates that everyone who is aware of the covenant message and its instructions, will be judged accordingly. A new instruction to keep in mind is that when God arises and pours out the affliction, God's people are to remain silent, and they are to do no boasting: be wise, and spend time considering your own mistakes. “Hold thy peace at the presence of the Lord God: for the day of the Lord is at hand: for the Lord hath prepared a sacrifice, he hath bid his guests. And it shall come to pass in the day of the Lord’s sacrifice, that I will punish the princes, and the king’s children, and all such as are clothed with strange apparel. In the same day also will I punish all those that leap on the threshold, which fill their masters’ houses with violence and deceit (Zephaniah 1:7-9).” Collectively, every instruction of the covenant message is a rebuke which is purposed to cause professed believers to have respect for God’s ways, as well as to know that the day of God’s wrath is at hand.

“For as ye have drunk upon my holy mountain, so shall all the heathen drink continually, yea, they shall drink, and they shall swallow down, and they shall be as though they had not been (Obadiah 16).” In prophecy, the word "drinking" is a parable word which pertains to listening to confusing end time messages, so according to this portion of Obadiah's message, God is testifying that believers who despise the new covenant and defy his instructions, will be mislead by false prophets until they are destroyed together on Judgment Day. “The wicked is reserved to the day of destruction (Job 21:30).” So regardless of the message that believers are promoting, if they are not following God's instructions in accordance with God's word, then they will suffer God's wrath on Judgment Day. “It is abomination to fools to depart from evil (Proverbs 13:19).” “Thus saith the Lord God; I have lifted mine hand, Surely the heathen that are about you, they shall bear their shame (Ezekiel 36:7).”

“But upon mount Zion shall be deliverance, and there shall be holiness; and the house of Jacob shall possess their possessions (Obadiah 17).” The words "Mount Zion" are parable words, and they represent a spiritual place wherein the thoughts of God’s people are in agreement, and wherein everyone serves the Lord with one consent. “For in mine holy mountain, in the mountain at the height of Israel, saith the Lord God, there shall all the house of Israel, all of them in the land, serve me: there will I accept them, and there will I require your offerings (Ezekiel 20:40).” The words “shall possess” suggest that God will cause his people to inherit other believers that will stand together in agreement with them, and believe as they believe. So, in essence, this verse is confirming that believers who understand the truth of the covenant message will inherit the redeemed. “The Lord hath sent a word into Jacob, and it hath lighted upon Israel (Isaiah 9:8).” “In that day, the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more stay upon him that smote them; but shall stay upon the Lord, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. The remnant shall return, even the remnant of Jacob, unto the mighty God (Isaiah 10:20-21).”

“And the house of Jacob shall be a fire, and the house of Joseph a flame, and the house of Esau for stubble, and they shall kindle in them, and devour them, and there shall not be any remaining of the house of Esau; for the Lord hath spoken it (Obadiah 18).” In prophecy, the parable word “fire” refers to burning passions which are flaring up out the mouths of believers. End time "fires" are burning, because God's people have concern for God's word. But Jacob's fires often contain errors, because these believers have misunderstood prophecy. “Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks: walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that ye have kindled (Isaiah 50:11).” “The house of Joseph” are words which pertain to believers that went ahead of the Lord, and studied to know the truths of prophecy. Therefore the flame which comes forth from the house of Joseph, is the powerful message which erupts from Joseph's mouth as he goes forth and publishes the truths which will consume the deceived: “He burned against Jacob like a flaming fire (Lamentations 2:3).” The parable word “stubble” pertains to false teachers and persons who are basing all of their end time knowledge and understanding upon mistaken teachings, and upon the deceit of their own hearts. “As the fire devoureth the stubble, and the flame consumeth the chaff, so their root shall be rottenness, and their blossom shall go up as dust: because they have cast away the law of the Lord of hosts, and despised the word of the Holy One of Israel (Isaiah 5:24).”

“And they of the south shall possess the mount of Esau; and they of the plain the Philistines (Obadiah 19).” This portion of Obadiah’s prophecy is set aside to announce God's predetermined plan to give an inheritance to all believers that put their trust in him. The blessings of these inheritances will come upon believers, if they remain faithful. The first word of inheritance is for "they of the south," and it has to do with priests and prophets which escaped the initial affliction of God’s wrath, but they either ignored, or kept quiet concerning the newly revealed truths of prophecy. These leaders will inherit Esau, or in other words, other believers that despise the covenant message. The second word of inheritance is for "they of the plain." This description has to do with the leaders that heard the covenant message, and laughed and mocked against it, until the day that God rose up and poured out the affliction. They will inherit the Philistines. In prophecy the word “Philistine” pertains to hard hearted, vengeful believers that despise the people of other religions, because Philistines were, and are, deceived by the teachings of men. “I have… delivered thee unto the will of them that hate thee, the daughters of the Philistines (Ezekiel 16:27).” “The Philistines have dealt by revenge, and have taken vengeance with a despiteful heart, to destroy it for the old hatred (Ezekiel 25:15).” 

“And they shall possess the fields of Ephraim, and the fields of Samaria (Obadiah 19).” Whereas the name “Ephraim” applies to believers which have the Holy Spirit, the opposite is true for the name, Samaria. The name “Samaria” pertains to believers that have transgressed, and have lost the Holy Spirit. “What is the transgression of Jacob? Is it not Samaria (Micah 1:5)?” Obadiah's third word of inheritance pertains to Christian priests and prophets which found out about the covenant message after they suffered the affliction of God’s correction. Their word of inheritance is a confirmation that these leaders will inherit their very own congregations. This gives great hope unto these leaders, because not only will their congregations be offended by their affliction, but they will turn against them, and they will hire new priests. “When Ephraim saw his sickness, and Judah saw his wound, then went Ephraim to the Assyrian (Hosea 5:13).” The armies of heaven will gather themselves together against the churches that hire false teachers, and thereby the Christian churches will stand corrected. “When I would have healed Israel, then the iniquity of Ephraim was discovered, and the wickedness of Samaria: for they commit falsehood; and the thief cometh in, and the troops of robbers spoileth without (Hosea 7:1).” The challenge for the afflicted priests, as well as all priests, is that, in order to receive their inheritances, they must patiently work at bringing their congregations into a proper understanding of the prophetic message.

“And Benjamin shall possess Gilead (Obadiah 19).” The interpretation of this inheritance is very deep, and it will astonish you. In prophecy, the name "Gilead" pertains to the laws which govern the very foundations of the Christian faith. These laws are highly regarded and established in the hearts and minds of Christian leaders, because they are scripture verses which have been proven to cause believers to inherit the Holy Spirit. “Thus saith the Lord unto the king’s house of Judah; thou art Gilead unto me (Jeremiah 22:6).” But even the foundational laws of Christianity will not always be effective at bringing everlasting life to all people. “Go up into Gilead, and take balm, O virgin, the daughter of Egypt: in vain shalt thou use many medicines; for thou shalt not be cured (Jeremiah 46:11).” “Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? Why then is not the health of the daughter of my people not recovered (Jeremiah 8:22)?” “Gilead is a city of them that work iniquity, and is polluted with blood (Hosea 6:8).” “Hear ye me… all Judah and Benjamin; The Lord is with you, while ye be with him; and if you seek him, he will be found of you; but if you forsake him, he will forsake you (2Chronicles 15:2).” 

In prophecy, the name “Benjamin” represents believers that boldly and unapologetically stand and promote the liberating truths which were delivered by the great apostle Paul: Paul was of the tribe of Benjamin. These priests are, by God’s design, opposed to forsaking Paul’s gracious laws of liberty, for any reason. But if these leaders are refusing to receive instruction, then they will be cast out of God's presence, and they will loose the Holy Spirit, for God’s word testifies that God will move, and do a new thing, and if they are not willing to see and know that the end time prophecies are being fulfilled, then they are guilty of iniquity, and of forsaking God's law. “Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it (Isaiah 43:19)?” “For, behold, I create a new heavens and a new earth (Isaiah 65:17).” When the leaders of Benjamin receive the newly revealed truths of prophecy, and accept the punishment or their err, then they shall inherit and possess the people of Gilead. “Come, and let us return unto the Lord: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up (Hosea 6:1).” “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed (Jeremiah 17:14).”  

“And the captivity of this host of the children of Israel shall possess that of the Canaanites, even unto Zarephath (Obadiah 20).” The “captivity of the host of the children of Israel” is a name which applies to deceived believers of every nation, whose priests refused to pay attention to the answers and truths which were necessary for their congregation to enter into the gates of the everlasting kingdom, until after the day of God's Wrath. These congregations will inherit the “Canaanites.” This parable name pertains to the unbelievers that dwell in the land, even among God’s people, for God left unbelievers in the land so that he might prove his people (Judges 3:4). Although their changes will not occur until after Judgment Day, the Canaanites are the captivity's promised inheritance. “In that day there shall be no more Canaanite in the house of the Lord of hosts (Zechariah 14:21).” “He that putteth his trust in me shall possess the land, and shall inherit my holy mountain (Isaiah 57:13).” 

“And the captivity of Jerusalem, which is in Sepharad, shall possess the cities of the south (Obadiah 20).” The “captivity of Jerusalem” is a name which pertains to the priests and leaders whose congregations rose against them when they stood up before that day, and confessed the covenant message. The name “Sepharad” is written upon these leaders to confirm that they have already been given a new name. In other words, these leaders are already delivered from their mistakes, and they have gone ahead, and have entered into the gates of the promised land. Although these priests may not see the rejoicing of their congregation until after the day of Salvation, they will inherit their own congregations.

“And saviors shall come up on mount Zion to judge the mount of Esau; and the kingdom shall be the Lord’s (Obadiah 21).” “Saviors” are spirit-led believers that understand the covenant message. This verse is testifying that God will send spirit-filled believers unto people whose initial response was to despise the covenant message. “Saviors” will come and deliver them by bringing them evidences which verify the truths of the covenant message. This is God’s way of refraining the house of Esau from making any more mistakes against him. The word "judging" has to do with sending Esau counsel which will deliver him from the pestilences, as well as form hands of his oppressors. “I will restore thy judges as at the first, and thy counselors as at the beginning (Isaiah 1:26).” “When the Lord raised them up judges, then the Lord was with the judge, and delivered them out of the hand of their enemies… for it repented the Lord because of their groanings by reason of them that oppressed them and vexed them (Judges 2:18).” 

“They have turned their back unto me, and not their face: but in the time of their trouble they will say, Arise, and save us (Jeremiah 2:27).” “Deliver me… cause me to escape: incline thine ear unto me, and save me (Psalm 71:2).” “When the children of Israel cried unto the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer… who delivered them (Judges 3:9).” “The Lord shall help them, and deliver them from the wicked… because they trust in him (Psalm 37:40).” “It shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God… he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation (Isaiah 25:9).” “Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shalt inherit all nations (Psalm 82:8).”