Introduction to the Bible
Lecture 1:
1.0 Introduction
One must understand that the people of the Old Testament times never had a Bible. The priests used various scrolls on which the Word of God was captured by the great men of God and Priests appointed by God over the years, and well into the New Testament Times. The Priesthood was also the only ones that had access to the scrolls, thus the people had to purely rely on the message that they preeched.This has led that the church of times has used the Word of God to mislead and manipulate the illiterate People, known as peasants for many years.
Although the Apostles of Jesus Christ has kept the Word of God alive after the Crucifix of Jesus, by writing the events and all down that they have experienced since the day that Jesus Christ has called them. It must be noted that the church kept on persecuting any one that dared to preach about Jesus Christ. This went on for about 50 to 60 years after the crucifix. This has not scared the Apostles down for they have walked with the Master and knew who He was and kept on spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the people until such time as that they too were killed by the church.
The Church and many other world rulers tried to eliminate the Gospel of Jesus Christ but God kept on raising men of God to make sure that The Gospel of Jesus Christ was not withheld from the people. One of these men was Martin Luther who was instrumental in translating the scrolls and compiled them in one book known as the Bible.
Martin Luther (German: [ˈmaɐ̯tiːn ˈlʊtɐ] ( listen); 10 November 1483 – 18 February 1546) was a German monk, Catholic priest, professor of theology and seminal figure of a reform movement in 16th century Christianity, subsequently known as the Protestant Reformation.
He strongly disputed the claim that freedom from God’s punishment for sin could be purchased with money. He confronted indulgence salesman Johann Tetzel with his Ninety-Five Theses in 1517. His refusal to retract all of his writings at the demand of Pope Leo X in 1520 and the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V at the Diet of Worms in 1521 resulted in his excommunication by the Pope and condemnation as an outlaw by the Emperor.
Luther taught that salvation is not earned by good deeds but received only as a free gift of God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ as redeemer from sin. His theology challenged the authority of the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church by teaching that the Bible is the only source of divinely revealed knowledge and opposed secrotalism by considering all baptized Christians to be a holy priesthood.
His translation of the Bible into the vernacular (instead of Latin) made it more accessible and had a tremendous impact on the church and on German culture. It fostered the development of a standard version of the German language, added several principles to the art of translation, and influenced the writing of an English translation, the King James Bible. His hymns influenced the development of singing in churches.
His marriage to Katharina von Bora set a model for the practice of clerical marriage, allowing Protestant priests to marry.
2.0 Handwritten Manuscripts
The Bible was originally manuscripts written on long sheets known as parchments rolled up on wooden rollers on each end. These rolled up manuscripts were called Scrolls. The word Manuscript means “Written by Hand”, deriving from the Latin word “Manus” and “scriber”
2.1 The Parchments
The scribes initially used the skin of pure animals but were later replaced by Parchments made up of bamboo pulp. The Old Testament was initially written in Hebrew whilst the New Testament was written in Greek.
2.2 The Scrolls
Each scroll contained certain messages or chapters which later formed part of the Bible as we know it now. The scrolls were more practical and user friendly to the Priests. Obviously these items were very expensive and limited so that the normal person could not afford it. The Bible even refers to the “Scrolls”.
Isa 34:4 And all the host of heaven shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll: and all their host shall fall down, as the leaf falleth off from the vine, and as a falling fig from the fig tree.
Rev 6:14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.
3.0 The work of the Jewish Scribes
The Jewish scribes had to be very sensitive to the spirit when they had to translate and duplicate the scrolls. Each copy could only be copied from the original scroll.
3.1 Verbal communication.
The Scribes had to read the word out loud whilst they were writing it down on the copy. When mistakes were found they had to erase the word and rewrite the page completely.
3.2 The approach and attitude of the Scribes.
The scribes had to humble themselves and respectfully had to wash their hands, feet and bodies and also wiped their pens clean each time that they had to write the Name of God. YHWY was the word used for the name of God.
3.3 Mistakes were
No mistakes were allowed at all. All the scripts were carefully scanned for mistakes. Should any be found, the whole manuscript was reject and had to be rewritten.
3.4 Consonants and no Vows
The original Hebrew language only had Consonants and no vows, A, E, I, O, U en Y. Therefore the Name YAHWEH or YAHVAH were written as “YHWH”. Also should one have to write the Lord’s Prayer it would have looked like this? NSVDRWTNDHMLSLTNM. …….
4.0 Septuagint
Alexander the Great has divided his kingdom into four regions and gave a portion to each of his Generals to rule after his death. Egypt and Palestine were given to Betholomy. A large contingent of Jews went over to Egypt and several other gentile regions where they spread the word of God and the Message of the coming of the Messiah.
The first translation of the Old Testament Scrolls from Hebrew into Greek took place about 270 B.C.; these scrolls contained the Apocalypse books which are not present in our Bible.
The word “Septuagint” is derived from a Latin word meaning “seventy”. It was named after the 70 Hebrew scribes and also refers to the roman letters “LXX”.
5.0 The Vulgate
The Vulgate is known as the Latin copy of Hieronymus, which is also the official Bible of the Roman Catholic Church. To them it means to make something Public.
6.0 The first Copies of the Bible
The Written Word of God, The Bible, became a reality to all. It took ages to compile. A lot of people went through a lot of difficulties to make it real. We will learn more about it in Lectures 3 and 4.
6.1 The ‘Great Bible”
Thomas Cromwell convinced Henry VIII to issue a license to allow the Bible to be translated into English and to allow it to be spread to the people. John Riggers was the translator and his Bible was known as the “Mathew-Bible” In 1539 a new version (new addition) By Coverdale saw the light and was known as the “Great Bible”
6.2 The Genève Bible
In 1560 the “GENEVE BIBLE” appeared on the market. It was a popular version because it was:
Written in Roman literature language.
The first Bible that were compiled in verses.
6.3 The “King James” – Version
The “King James” version appeared during 1611. This is considered the best quality and the most popular Bible of all times and is still used by all English literate people around the world for over 350 years. 47 Scribes authorized and instructed by King James compiled this version after they had studied the Hebrew and Greek language and scripts to produce the best results.
7.0 Misperceptions about The bible
A lot of people believe that the Bible is a report about religious history of the Jews and a journey to discover the Messiah. This of cause is not a true route to go! The Bible is in fact a report of Gods revelations about Himself and His coming to be with His people as the son of God and again His 2nd coming as the Messiah to rule over His People in the New Jerusalem.
8.0 The Bible as Photo Album
The Bible is God’s photo album and it contains photos of the righteous and of the unrighteous. Each page portrait a copy of Him and this is where Theology plays a big role to enlighten people about His superiority as the one and only true God.
“He is the image of the unseen God”
2Co 4:6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
Col 1:15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
9.0 The Central Message of the Bible
Just like the planets revolved around the sun, so is the Jesus Christ the spindle around which the Word of God is revolving. The Bible is the Written Word and Jesus Christ is the Living Word.
10.0 Jesus the Author and God of the Word.
Jesus is the Creator of the Bible that became a living soul to be with His people and they did not accept Him although the Bible prophesized about His coming.
Joh 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Heb 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
11.0 Jesus Christ in the Old Testament Prophesies.
It is tragic that people reject the Old Testament and or the History and prophesies about God with His People. He is the Predicted Immanuel that became Flesh in Jesus the son of man, the son of God. He is the Alpha and Omega. The One that Was, That is and that is to Come. (The 2nd Coming to Tabernacle with His people.) The Old Testament is the pointer to what is to what is to come in the future, the New Testament. That what is predicted by the Old Testament is Revealed in the New Testament. Many of the Prophesies of the Old Testament has already come to pass in the New Testament.
11.1 Reference to Moses
Jesus related to the Immunes goers about prophesies made about Him in the Old Testament by the various Prophets. He started with Moses and end with the crucifix.
Luk 24:27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.
11.2 The prophets depicted Jesus as our Savior.
‘The Bible reveals the predictions made by the prophets of the Old Testament that Jesus Christ will be the Savior and Redeemer of His People
Act 10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
11.3 The Seed Promises
In Geneses we read about the seed promises of God to man and the fact that man will crush the head of Satan the serpent.
Genesis 3: 15 The Seed of the woman
Isaiah 7: 14 The Virgin Birth of Jesus Christ
Psalm 22: 16 – 18 The piercing of His hands and feet and the
Raffle of His clothing.
Isaiah 53:1 – 12 The crucifix of Christ at Calvary
11.3 The ratio of prophesies about Jesus
There is about 1,000 prophesies in the Bible of which 800 is in the Old Testament of which 330 is Christ Centered. That is 33%
12.0 The “Types” of Jesus Christ in the Old Testament
Moses, Isaac, Joseph and David were all type of Christ. They all played a special role to the people of God. Moses had to lead Israel out of Egypt, whereas Jesus leads us out of our bondage. Joseph steps in for Israel during the Phamon. Joseph was thrown in the pit for his destiny. Christ was in the Grave for us. Both had to be in alone in darkness. More about the Christ types are dealt with in Typology
Typology is the teaching about various things or people that had something in common to the life of Jesus Christ on earth.
12.1 Other examples of Typology in the Bible
Adam, Aaron, Isaac Jonah, Joseph, the Lamb at Easter, The tabernacle in the desert, the High Priest, the Lion of Jude etc. All of which Jesus Christ is the most Important as the son of Man, the Son of God, The Seed of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph and David.
12.2 Jacob’s Ladder
Jacob had a dream where he saw the Angels of heaven climbing up and down from heaven. We are now going to look at a few examples about “Ladders” in the study of Typology
12.2.1 Ladders and Steps.
The word “ladder” means “steps” Jacob saw the steps leading to heaven. This is the only reference to steps leading to heaven, and it depicts the chronology prediction of Jesus Christ on earth up until His ascending to heaven.
12.2.2 The ladder of God
Jesus Christ is a Type of this step ladder.
Joh 1:51 And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.
Jesus was the ladder that God used to climb down from heaven to His people on earth via the virgin birth.
God could love us from heaven but could not save our souls from there. He had to become man to save man by shedding His Blood at Calvary.
13.0 Jesus Christ a type of organic products
Organic farm products produced without making use of fertilizers and pesticide killers.
13.1 Manna
Manna from heaven, Bread to Israel. A miracle on its own.
Exo 16:15 And when the children of Israel saw it, they said one to another, It is manna: for they wist not what it was. And Moses said unto them, This is the bread which the LORD hath given you to eat.
13.2 Jesus the Manna from Heaven
Manna only fell from heaven whilst Israel was in the Desert and stopped when they crossed the Jordan to enter in the Promised Land.
Joh 6:31 Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.
Joh 6:32 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.
Joh 6:33 For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.
Joh 6:34 Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread.
Joh 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
14.0 Jesus Christ in the Old Testament as Offerings.
Animals had to bled and die for the sin of man during the Old Testament times. Animals were also offered during victories ceremonies.
Lev 3:3 And he shall offer of the sacrifice of the peace offering an offering made by fire unto the LORD; the fat that covereth the inwards, and all
Lev 6:22 And the priest of his sons that is anointed in his stead shall offer it: it is a statute for ever unto the LORD; it shall be wholly burnt.
14.1 Burnt Offers and Sacrifices.
The offerings and sacrifices of the Old Testament was a prediction of the Offer that Jesus Christ was to pay at Calvary. He became the Lamb.
1Sa 15:22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD?
Gen 22:8 And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together.
Rev 5:6 And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.
14.2 The various types of offerings
In Genesis the offer of an individual – Isaac (Gen. 22 :13
In Exodus the offer for the house – Est. (Ex. 12: 3)
In Leviticus the offer for the Nation – Israel (Lev: 13-15)
In John the offer for the world – Jesus(John. 3: 16)
15.0 Jesus Christ in the New Testament
The New Testament is all about the life and activities of God with His people. It depicts the birth of Immanuel, his life as the son of man, His baptism and 3 year manifestation as God in the Flesh and His Grace and salvation plan for man by becoming the Lamb slain for our sins. Jesus became the New Testament for us.
15.1 The Evangelic Books
There are four Evangelic Books. Mathew, Mark, Luke and the book of John.
These are the four witnesses to the four different nations.
15.2 Mathews
Mathew wrote to the Jews and depicted Jesus Christ as their Messiah. He confirmed what the Prophet Zachariah has preached.
Zec 9:9 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass.
Mat 21:5 Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.
15.3 Mark
Mark wrote to the Romans. He depicted Jesus Christ as the truth and faithful servant and saw Him as the Son of God. This is where God says:
“This is My Servant” The same prediction made by Isaiah.
Isa 42:1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.
Mat 12:18 Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles.
15.4. Luke
To Luke he was the Man, The son of Man. This is a fulfillment of Zachariah’s prophesies
Zec 6:12 And speak unto him, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD:
Luk 12:8 Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:
15.5. John
John wrote to us. He saw Jesus Christ as the Son of God and God in the Flesh. He confirmed Isaiah’s prophesies.
Isa 40:9 O Zion, that bringest good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God!
Joh 1:10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.
Joh 1:11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
Joh 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
Joh 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
16.0. The book of Acts and Paul’s Letters to the Church
In Acts and in the letters to the various Churches, Jesus is depicted as the One Raised from the dead and Alive to the Church.
Act 14:15 And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:
Rom 9:26 And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.
2Co 3:3 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.
17.0. The Book Revelations
In Revelations Jesus Christ is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He is Glorious, Victorious risen King. He is the Alpha and Omega, The Judge and Redeemer. He is the God!
The Name of the Books says it all. It is a Revelation, that He, is God.
18.0 Summary
There is no other book printed in as many languages as the Bible. It is the only book that is frequently read by many on a daily base and even more on Sundays. It must also be said that it is the highest selling novel that is the least read by its owners.
Lecture 2
1.0 Introduction
At the end of the previous lecture it was referred to that the Bible is the most popular book in the world. Why? In this lecture we are going to look at the main reasons why.
2.0 The Bible
The word “Bible” comes from the Greek words “Biblos” and “Biblion” that means “The Book” By making use of a good concordance one can experience the value of the messages and revelations captured the Bible.
The following Concordances are of good quality and can be recommended to further your studies: The Young’s, Vines, Strong’s as well as E-Sword which is the Electronic Bible. It is suggested that students make use of High Lighters to High Light Scriptures of Similar Meanings.
The Bible is also known as:
2 .1 Book Roll
Psa 40:7 Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me,
Heb 10:7 Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God.
2.2 The Book
Gen 5:1 This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him;
Exo 17:14 And the LORD said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven.
Mar 12:26 And as touching the dead, that they rise: have ye not read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spake unto him, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob?
Act 7:42 Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness?
Luk 3:4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
Rev 22:18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
2.3 The Word of God
Of all the names given to the bible, the Name “The Word of God” is the name that gives it the real description. It reveals God Authority. The Name “Word of God” appears about 40 times in the New Testament.
Mar 7:13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do
Rom 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Heb 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
2.4 The Scripture
The word Scripture is only mentioned once in the Old Testament and 52 times in the New Testament.
Dan 10:21 But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.
Mat 22:29 Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.
Rom 1:2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)
Luk 24:27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.
2Ti 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Joh 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.
2.5 The Old and New Testaments
The word “Testament” means “Covenant” or “Agreement” Between two parties. The Bible, Word of God, is the proof of Gods covenant agreement with His followers. The first Old Testament Covenant took place between God and Noah and then with Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses and David. The Law of God was presented to Moses on Mount Sinai. The Covenant contained the Laws of God for His people.
Jesus Himself introduced the New Testament to us when He was with His Disciples in the Upper Room.
Luk 22:20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
Heb 9:15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.
Heb 12:24 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.
2.5 References to the Spoken Word of God
God spoke to man, Adam and Eve, in the Garden of Eden and after the disbanding of man from the Garden of Eden, He did so sporadically to His Chosen. This verbal communication is referred to as the Words of God. Here are a few examples:
Gen 3:9 And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?
Gen 3:13 And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.
Gen 4:9 And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother’s keeper?
Gen 27:8 Now therefore, my son, obey my voice according to that which I command thee.
Num 24:4 He hath said, which heard the words of God, which saw the vision of the Almighty, falling into a trance, but having his eyes open:
Mat 17:5 While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.
Act 22:7 And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
Joh 3:34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.
2.6 Statutes
Deu 11:1 Therefore thou shalt love the LORD thy God, and keep his charge, and his statutes, and his judgments, and his commandments, alway.
This term means that Gods word must be a permanent fixture in our lives. It should be engraved into our Hearts and Minds.
God has already engraved us on the palms of His hands and the will to serve Him into our hearts.
Isa 49:16 Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me.
2.7 The Commandments of God
God’s spoken words are a Law on its own and His commandments must be adhered to, whether it is in the Old Testament or New Testament. Sin is Sin and against the Word of God.
1Sa 15:23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.
Exo 20:19 And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die.
Exo 20:3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Exo 20:4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth:
Exo 20:5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;
Exo 20:6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.
Mar 12:29 And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:
Mar 12:30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.
Mar 12:31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.
2.8 Judgments
God does not Judge the living and even Jesus once said that He is not send to Judge people but to set them free. God has left the Judgment for the Day of Judgment to come, which is after the Battle of Armageddon. Jesus, the slain Lamb of God, Judged by man, will Judge man.
Lev 19:15 Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour.
2Ch 1:10 Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great?
Psa 7:8 The LORD shall judge the people: judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness, and according to mine integrity that is in me.
Psa 9:8 And he shall judge the world in righteousness, he shall minister judgment to the people in uprightness.
Mat 7:1 Judge not, that ye be not judged.
Joh 12:47 And 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.
Joh 12:48 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.
Rom 2:16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.
Heb 10:30 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
Rom 14:11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
2.9 The Division of the Bible
The Bible is divided into two Testaments made up of various books with the Old Testament the History of God with His people until the coming of the Christ, and the New Testament depicting the virgin birth of Christ Jesus, His 33 years on earth, His crucifixion and ascending to heaven from where He will come to save His bride, the Christian Church. It also contains the prediction of the Beast and the Anti Christ, the revelations of the end time trials and tribulations as well as Gods victory over the serpent and his followers. The greatest event captured is the promise of God, the Eternal life with Him in the New Jerusalem.
3.0 The Old Testament
The Old Testament is made up of 39 books, from Genesis up to Malachi.
3.1 Sub Divisions of the Old Testament
The first 5 books of the Bible, Genesis; Exodus; Leviticus; Deuteronomy and Numbers, is called the Pentateuch.
3.2. The History Books
The Pentateuch is followed by 12 History Books, Joshua; Samuel I & II ; Ezra; Judges ; Kings I &II ; Nehemiah; Ruth; Chronicles I & II; Ester
3.3 The Poetic Books
The history books is followed up by 5 poetic books, Job; Proverbs; Psalms; Ecclesiastes and the Songs of Solomon.
3.4 The Prophetic Books
The Old Testament ends with 17 prophetic books: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations,
Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Mica, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zachariah, and Malachi
3.5 The Division of the New Testament
The New Testament contains 27 Books made up of the following divisions:
3.6 The Evangelic Books
The New Testament opens up with the 4 Evangelic books: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
3.7 History Books
The book of Acts is the only history book in the New Testament.
3.8 The Letters to the Churches
There are 21 letters written by various writers.
Romans, Corinthians, Jude, Galatians, 1st & 2nd Corinthians, 1st 2nd & 3rd John, 1st
2nd Colossians, Ephesians, 1st & 2nd Timothy, Thessalonians, Titus, Peter, Philippians, James, Hebrews and Philemon.
3.4 The Prophetic Book
The New Testament ends with the one and only Prophetic Book in the New Testament. Revelations: This is God’s revelations as to what is to happen in the latter days of the Biblical times and the destiny of the righteous and unrighteous.
4.0 Chapters
There are 1189 chapters in the Bible
4..1 Verses
There are 31,163 verses in the Bible.
4.2. Lettering
There are 3,566,480 letters in the Bible.
The whole Bible is about God and His people and is implemented by God for God’s people. It is of no value and sense to the disbeliever, but of great and everlasting value for the believers of God. As previously stated it is a portrait of God.
Lecture 3
1.0 Introduction
In the following lectures we are going to look at the effords that the scribes has undergone to translate the Bible into Greek and then into English and Dutch.
2.0 Translations before the reformation period.
Nederland and England went through a dull period during the mid evil times. During this period many attempts has been made to translate the Vulgate into German.
2.1 Manses Mathew
The ‘Menses Mathew’, had its origin in a Mission in Austria. Menses Mathews has converted Latin into a logic language that would make sense to the everyday man and attempt to translate the Bible directly from Latin into English. This did not work and a lot of discrepancies and faults came to be. One example is the “Singing” of the cockerel when Peter denies Knowing Jesus Christ instead of that the cockerel has Crowed 3 times.
2.2 Many Partial Translations.
Many scribes attempt to translate the word of God into German. There were at least 1300 unsuccessful attempts. In 1325 three Old Testament and two New Testaments, Five Evangelic books and twenty Psalms saw the light.
From the above affords it proved that there was indeed a demand by people to have their own German Bible. The product was expensive and not of good quality, so people could not afford it.
2.3 Resistance from the Roman Catholic Church
The attempters also picked up a lot of resistance from the Roman Catholic Church which was the Main Stream church of the time. The Priests claimed that the translation books were of inferior quality and that it even dishonor the revelations made in the scriptures. The People were told to be happy with the true Bible of the Roman Church. After all these scribes to be has been schooled by the Priests and the priests knew that they have received limited training.
Pope Gregarious VII argued that God has purposely placed certain difficult sections in the Bible so that only the Priests could understand it.
Pope Innocent went so far as to call that all people be punished that dares to try and understand the bible.
2.4 Mentel of Strasbourg
Mentel of Strasbourg issued the first German in Hilde, Austria. This too was a poor afford. It was a direct translated hand written copy of the Vulgate and even the grammar was bad, full of spelling mistakes. Even the German words were mixed with Latin phrases. Identification of sentences were difficult as mistakes like “the quick God” instead of the Merciful God and phrase like the prayers were poured out instead of “Done” just created chaos.
Not was it only a bad example, but it was also a large and clumsy presentation of 2 foot by 1 foot with 405 thick pages in it. The cost was excessive and equivalent to a tribe of oxen. No wonder the German people was looking for a cheaper alternative
3.0 The Excitement of Martin Luther
Martin Luther related to people as to how exited he was when he as a Priests in the Roman Church happened to saw the first complete Bible. He only knew the so called Church Scripts or Scrolls, but when he saw the bible he could not resist the temptation to get hold of his own bible.
3.1 Martin Luther found a Merciful God
As a senior priest Luther was called to tutor Theology in Wittenberg from March 1509 onwards. In 1513 he became a doctor in Theology. This is where He discovered the Merciful God instead of the God of Wrath that he was taught. The fact is that the Church kept the truth away from the ordinary priests and common people.
3.2 His initial Thoughts.
Initially he never thought that every household should have their own bible in their own language. The main reason for his thoughts was that the bible would be safer in the hands of the priests.
3.3 The various Interpretations of the Scriptures
The church also made him believe that there were 4 ways to interpret the scriptures and that most of the priests only knew the literal way. The inexperience preacher could never understand which one of the methods was applicable where. The more Luther has studied the Bible, the more he learned that the Vulgate was a misleading scroll.
3.4 The Literal Translation of the Bible.
In 1517 he contests the various interpretations that the priests has used and declares that the bible should only be interpreted in the literal way. That is to believe what you read and nothing else. He also believed that every man has got the right to know God and to pray to God and that they should have their own Bible.
3.5 The proclamation of the 95 Statements and an own German Bible
Luther came to believe that every person, whether man or woman should have their own bible, one which they could make their own, and even write their names in. After he posted the 95 statements he claimed that every person should learn about the grace of God and that they should discover the true Word of God on their own.
3.6 Luther Prepare Himself
Luther’s friends even inspire him to translate the Bible in German and to proceed with his vision to get a bible in the hands of each person. He realized that he would have to study the ancient languages and learn to speak the some of them as well. He got himself a Hebrew dictionary and made his first task to translate the book of Psalms. During this exercise he found out the value of the Hebrew language. He made it a habit to speak in Hebrew when he took his daily strolls. He even read the Hebrew Bible at the dinner table.
Luther then set the Hebrew bible aside and started with the Greek Dictionary and eagerly read the Greek Bible. When the Erasmus New Testament came on the market during 1516 Luther grabbed it up and even enroll on classes in the Greek language at Melanchthon.
3.7 Luther took up Latin and German Language Classes.
Luther had to learn to speak and write German as he was more literate in the written Latin Language. Latin was the language used as the educational language. The Doctors of today still make use of Latin in their studies. His perception of German was low and saw the language as of minor status although he was a German by birth. Luther even spoke Latin on his death bed.
3.8 He again had to learn his own Mother Language.
Luther realized that he would have to learn German if he wants to translate the Bible in German in order for his people to have their own bible as he visualized. He often set out to the local street markets to catch up on the colloquial language. Sometimes he had to change his appearance to listen closer by. For him it was important to talk the language of the mother at home, the father at work and the child on the street.
3.9 Additional Contribution to the German Language.
Luther decided not to translate the German Bible into the common German language but rather into the German Language spoken in the diplomatic world. The diplomatic German could not always relate to some of the French vocabulary and in order to breech the gap he sometimes made his own words up. This has lead to that he is often referred to as the father of the German Language.
3.10 Luther completes the New Testament in German
Luther first started to translate the New Testament into German. Astonish it took him between 6-10 weeks to complete the master book. The Catholic Priests shot it down to be an inferior book and even claimed that he has copied the old German scripts. This was unfounded as Luther knew that the old German Scrolls were of poor standards and in fact ignored it totally. His translation was directly from Hebrew and made use of His knowledge, Hebrew Dictionary and other recourses
3.11 “Das Niue Testament Deutsch”
On 21 September 1522 Luther released his New Testament: in German and named it ‘Das Niue Testament Deutsch’. Later some even referred to it as the ‘September Testament. Although this New Testament cost about R7,00 at the time, which was expensive, the book was sold within three months from launch. Luther then wrote another book of which the 3rd copy and within a year and a half he sold over 80 copies of the September Bible.
3.12 His problem with certain books of the New Testament
Luther took a radical approach towards the New Testament Canon as to which books to take up in the Bible that relates to Jesus as the Christ.His criteria of measure was to based on the teachings of Jesus Christ: ‘Was Christum Treibat’ (What Christ Preached). He experienced problems with 4 New Testament Books because he could not prove who the original authors were, was it the Apostles or their assistants. These books were the books: Hebrews, James, Jude, and Revelations. He however added them in at the end of the New Testament after he understood the revelations of the Grace of God.
3.13 Luther and the Old Testament
Luther then started with the translation of the Old Testament. It took him about 12 years to complete the Old Testament. It is reasonable as the Hebrew of The Old Testament were very difficult to understand. He just had to be patient and learn how the culture and the Levite Laws affected the Literal words. Luther even had to visit the abattoirs to discover the various parts of animals and the application in relation to the scriptures.
3.14 His problems with the Book of Job
The book of Job was a tough one to Luther. He even made a remark that his translation might have irritated Job more than that of the pity of his friends. At times he had to change some verses over 13 times to achieve the best statements.
Luther managed to complete his Old Testament Bible in 1534. It appeared under the name ‘Bibila -das ist die ganze heilige Sckrift Deutsch’. “The Complete Bible”
3.15 His other works
In 24 years from 1522 up to Luther’s death in 1546, over 300 Bibles were produced.
4.0 The Roman Catholic Churches reactions towards Luther’s Bible.
The Bible was an absolute success and people scooped it up. Even some Catholic Priests welcomed and acquired it.
4.1 George of Saxe
The only negative attitude towards the Lutheran Bible was George of Saxe, an old enemy of Luther who banned the Bible from his area.
But he first made sure that he kept a copy for himself.
The advantage of Luther’s Bible is that the German people now have an official language to read, write and speak. Luther enriched the German language. At times he smiled about the thought that those who opposed his Bible is the ones now reading it and has even inherit a language of high standard and purity.
4.2 The Catholic Ember Bible
The Roman Catholic Church realized that they are lacking behind and should also produce a German Bible to prevent the people to read the Lutheran Bible. The catholic order claimed that the Lutheran Bible was a false book containing over 14,000 lies and they consider it to be a sect. During 1527, a Roman Priest with the name of Ember published the first Catholic New Testament. Ironically he purchased wooden framed pictures up that contained parts of Luther’s Bible books to assist him but on closer inspection it became evident that he has copied the Lutheran Bible virtually word for word with only a few deceptions like in Rev 14:8 where he renamed Babylon to the City of Rome and the Palace of the Pope
4.3 The translation of the Vulgar into German
Ember wanted to reinstate the popularity of the Vulgate and decided to translate the whole Vulgate in German. During this exercise he again claimed that the Lutheran Bible was full of mistakes but like before he again copied Luther’s bible. What he did not realize was that he had made a few statements against the Catholic doctrine, especially in Romans 3:30 where Luther has used the word ‘nor’, (‘Nur’ means to base on faith alone). On completion the Roman Church received a German Vulgate, which was yet another poor copy of Luther’s Bible. When Luther read it he smiled and was pleased that the Roman Catholic Church is using his bible without realizing and denying it.
4.4 Diesenburger
After Ember, Diesenburger also tried to oppose Luther’s Old Testament by publishing his own German version. Funny enough he too has just copied Luther’s Bible. The Romans then cried out for their own Bible and not for a copy of Luther’s bible. A certain man with the name of Eck then tried to compile his own New Testament in German but at the end of the day it again was just another Ember Bible, an a bad copy of Luther’s Bible. Deisenberg’s Bible lasted for 26 years after he wrote 3 versions.
4.5 Critics on the New Testament of Eck
A Catholic biography criticized the Eck Bible to be the worst of all attempts ever in the German language of the 16th century.
5.0 Later German Bibles
Many German Bibles saw the later years but the Lutheran Bible is still the best version to many German people.
6.0 Conclusion
To have a Bible in your own language is indeed the best gift that any nation can have. The Affords by Martin Luther has produced a product that could be translated into any language without any reason to change the context of the scriptures.
Today, English is the most spoken Language around the world and even the Eskimo’s can now have a copy of the “Original” Bible and understand it when it is meant that Jesus is the Lion of Jude. To them in their early days when they have never seen or mixed with other nations, they did not knew what a Lion was, as they have never seen one in their area or life before. It made sense to have replaced the word Lion with “The Bear” of the Ice Land.
We are fortunate to live in the 19th, 20th and 21st Century, and to have our own Bibles. People are more educated and can now all virtually read and write. The New Testament brought exiting times to us and we can now study the Bible to discover the hidden messages contained within the Word of God for ourselves.
Lecture 4
1.0 Introduction
It wasn’t long before the Dutch, Netherland, also longed for a bible in their home Language.
1.1 Translations Banned in Netherland
The Catholic Vulgate was the only bible available in Netherland up until the 14th century. The Dutch people spoke out and called for a Bible in Dutch. The Church of the day was totally against the translation concept and during 1929 the Roman Catholic Church Council issued an inquisition, a ban on any afford to translate the bible at all. The inquisition was a religious commission that had to persecute and punish any person in rebellion against the church or the Roman Vulgate.
2.0 Translations before the Reformation Period.
Several attempts have been made to translate the German Bible into Dutch. Here are a few examples:
2.1 The Carolingians Psalms
The eldest piece of scripture in Netherlands was the so call ‘Carolingians Psalm’ dated about 500 A.C. It was used as a supporting document to the Vulgate.
2.2 The ‘Holy’ Rhyme
It was during the 9th Century that the ‘Heiland’ a German rhyme was compiled about the life of Christ. Jesus Christ was portrait as a German King.
2.3 The ‘Rhymes Bible’
In 1270 the ‘Rhymes Bible’ of Jacob von Maerlant saw the light. It wasn’t meant to be a Bible but rather a book of Rhymes and hymns of many psalms from the Bible. These songs have been song in the church for many years. This was the interlude to translate the Bible into Dutch.
2.4 The Historic Bible
In 1360 the so called ‘Historic Bible’ came out which only contained the Historic Books of the Testament.
2.5 The ‘In Delft’ Bible
The first Dutch Biblical Scriptures of the Historic Bible saw the light in 1477 in book form.
3.0 Translations during the Reformation Period.
The Bible is now out of the hands of the Roman Catholic Church and into the hands of scribes. The time was right For the “Dutch “ to posess their own bible.
3.1 Desiderius Erasmus
In March 1516 a Modern Greek version of the New Testament saw the light in Switzerland. The compiler was a man named Desiderius Erasmus a Hollander from Rotterdam – Desiderius Erasmus.
This bible wasn’t a translation but a modern version which was later called the Erasmus Bible. Before this Greek version of the New Testament the Catholic Church has used the old Greek Vulgate for over 1,000 years which they rewrote a few times without consulting the Greeks.
Later years another New Testament version was published, which was just yet another direct translation from ancient Greek. It is believed that the Greeks and the Jews and the Roman Catholic Church had no interest in the Evangelistic books of Paul and ignored the New Testament for many years after the Crucifix.
3.2 Textus Reseptus
Luther made use of the Erasmus text for his New Testament that appeared in 1552. The Erasmus Greek New Testament later got the name the ‘Textus Reseptus’ this is the sametext that the Afrikaans Bible translators has used for their New Testament.
As the dust settled from the Reformation period the Netherlands people demanded their own Dutch Bible. They have used three methods to achieve their set goal:
3.2.1 Making use of the Lutheran Bible.
A direct Translation into Dutch.
3.2.2 By using the Latin Vulgate
By making use of the Erasmus text they translated the Vulgate into Dutch.
3.2.3 The help of a board of Censors.
They acquired the help of Roman translators to assist them with the translation.
3.3 Jacob von Lies Veldt
The Translation work of Martin Luther was followed up by a well known man with the name of Jacob von Lies Veldt. He based all his work on that of Luther. His publishing of 1542 became world renown as it cost him his life when he was tortured to death. He was beheaded at the age of 56 yrs. It then became a hazardous job to translate the Bible as it could cost you your life. Irrespective of the persecutions the job carried on
3.4 Zwingli
In 1556 The first Reformed translation saw the light. It was a rework of the Bible from Zurich out of the pen of Zwingli. This was by far a better version than that of von Leisveldt. The Reformed bible became the Bible in all the Dutch Reform Churches and main stream churches.
3.5 Desus-Aus-Bible
In 1562 the ‘Desus-Aus-Bible’ Bible came on the market. It was a combination of the Lutheran and Swedish Bible. It was the first Bible with “side notes”. Luther named the author Uilspieël Vincentius’. A man from Kalensburgh, who didn’t know the Dutch People at all, thus the nickname by Luther
Although it too was a poor example, the Bible was used for many years up until the arrival of the “State Bible”.
3.6 The State Bible “Statebybel”
With the people becoming more interested in the development of their own home language, the Dutch kept on striving towards their own Dutch Bible stemming from the knowledge of their own people
3.6.1 Order by the State General
In 1594 the State General (Premier) gave the order to Philips von Marnix of St. Algelegonde to start with the translation of a standard Bible with the help of five other scribes. Marnix was already popular for Rhyme of the Psalms. Unfortunately he died in 1598 before he could complete the book Genesis.
3.6.2 Setbacks
The set back caused by the death of Marnix plus other factors forced the National Synod in Dordt of the Dutch Reform Church in 1618 that they had a problem which needs to be addressed.
3.6.3 The Synod appoints six translators.
The chairman of the 1618 Synod, Rev. John Bogerman, delivered a reply about the lack of a decent Dutch Bible and convinced the Senate to appoint six translators, of which Bogerman was one, to start with the project.
3.6.4 The Dues-Ause-Bible Maintained
The order to the scribes was to maintain the basic language but is also to stick as close as possible to the, Dues-Ause-Bible.
3.6.5 Ordered to keep the Epistle Books.
The order was also to retain the Eastern Culture in the book and that the Epistle books were to follow, each with its own page markings
3.6.6 Years of Intense Translation.
The Synod expected that the scribes had to complete the translation of the bible into Dutch within 4 years. A task, that took them 16 years to only complete the New Testament and 19 years to translate the Old Testament.
3.6.7 Circumstances leading to the Long Translation Period
The whole Bible was only completed in 1637. The excuse was that they, the scribes, were held up in Leiden, where they had to work under extreme circumstances.
A Pest Epidemic broke out near the cemetery in Leiden and over a 100 people was buried daily in front of the eyes of the scribes. Besides this, God had mercy on them and did they survive the epidemic and could they eventually complete the task on hand.
3.6.8 The name ‘State Bible’
The Bible got the Name “State Bible’ due to that the State General instructed them to translate the Bible into Dutch. The Government donated 75,000 guilds towards the said project.
3.6.9 Mistakes in die first Translation
Many mistakes were discovered with the first print as one of the translators, Hummus, failed to correct mistakes that were made when he was responsible to execute all the corrections In 1655 they had to publish an addendum, indicating all the mistakes made. The mistakes were phased out and for 3 decades this became the official Bible in Holland.
3.7 Influence of the State Bible
This was next to Luther’s Bible the best book to date. A great achievement to the writers and the people of the Netherlands. It touched people and since then the Dutch could not go without their bible. A momentous event in the History of Netherland.
3.7.1 Influence on the African History
This Bible made a huge impact on the History of the Afrikaans People and fellow Africans as this Bible was the first Bible that the African People laid their eyes on. Dutch became a popular communication language to the local people and it is believed that many a bible found their way up into North Africa in the vanity toolbox of the ox wagons during the Great Trek and eventually in Houses, Schools and on the Pulpit up to 1933 when the Afrikaans Bible was produced in South Africa
3.8 The new version of the Dutch Reform Bible Bond.
The State Bible used the ‘Textus Reseptus’ text whereas the Old Testament used the ‘Ramberglana’ text. Although the Africans used the Old Dutch Reformed Bible they manage to translate their own Afrikaans Bible which saw the Light in 1933 and was replaced with a second translation in 1953.
3.8.1 The New Afrikaans Translation
The State Bible was used for nearly 300 years when the Netherlands Bible Society started with an Afrikaans bible during 1926. About two dozen scribes were nominated for this mammoth task. In 1939 the master copy saw the light, but due to the 1939 – 1945 world war, the activities had to be ceased and only after the war could they resume with their task. The first New South African “Afrikaans” Bible saw the light on 1 December 1951. It came out without the Epistle Books, but with Side Cross Reference Notes.
4.0 Conclusion
Both the State Bible as Well as The South African Language Translation has played a major role in the lives of many South Africans. The Old King James and The New South African Bibles are of the most common products in every household in South Africa and Namibia.
Lecture 5
1.0 Introduction
The people of England were also seeking for a Bible in English
2.0 The urge for an English Bible
The urge to have their own Bible, has erupted into the biggest persecution in the history of England. Besides this, God has made sure that certain people be revived to capture His True Word on paper so that every nation could have their own Bible. When darkness came upon the people, He provided the light. After all He is the Light of Man john1.
2.1 The ‘Angle-Saxe’ Translation
The official Bible used by the Church of the day in England was the Latin – Roman Vulgate, although the people spoke Engle Saxe, the common language spoken by the majority of common people. Individuals attempted to translate the Bible in Angle Saxe during the 8th century. One of these scribes was Bishop Egbert that has translated the Evangelic books into Angle Saxe. Even King Alfred translated the Ten Commandments, some of the psalms and bits and pieces of the Old Testament.
The Bishop von Keutelburg, Stephen Langton was the man that has divided the Vulgate into different books in the Bible during 1226. The principle was initially unpopular, but was later accepted. This principle is even used in our modern day bibles around the world.
2.2 The ‘Wycliffe’ Bible.
John Wycliffe was a traveling preacher during the pre-reform period in England. He preached against the misconceptions of the Roman Catholic Church and their misuse of the Vulgate to manipulate the people. His biggest protest was that the church has withheld the Vulgate from the people. He then set out to translate the Vulgate into English so that it can become a possession in every household. He convinced two men, Hereford to assist him with the translation of the Old Testament during 1382 and Purvey to assist him with the translation of the New Testament during 1390. The Wycliffe Bible became the first complete English Bible. It became very popular and progressively it was written over from Angle-Saxe into the Standard English that we know today.
2.2.1 The Attitude of the Government.
In 1401 the government has banned the Wycliffe Bible and instructed that all the Bibles be destroyed in a bonfire. Many people lost their lives when they were burned with their bibles when they kept on reading from it. During 1408, the Synod of Oxford prohibited any person from translating any bible verse into English. They even went so far as to through Hereford and Purvey into jail and to dig up the bones of Wycliffe who has already passed away and burned his bones in revenge.
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2.3 The ‘William Tyndale’ Translation
Tyndale is the biggest name in the history of the English Bible. He was the first person that has attempted to translate the Bible from Hebrew and Greek into English. He was especially inspired by the first printed copy of the Hebrew Old Testament which saw the light in 1448 and the New Testament printed in 1516. Unfortunately the reformation period affected him and was he forced to complete his work outside of England. A London tradesman by the name of Monmouth assisted him financially during 1524 and could he manage to produce the first English New Testament Copy within a period of one year. He then handed it to a printer that could reproduce the bible.
2.3.1 Tyndale had to flee due to his believes
The king of England used his agent in Europe, Coeklaeus, to try and stop Tyndale’s work. Tyndale fled to Worms, where he completed the printing work. He then under cover, Shipped 16,000 copies to England, but Coeklaeus found out about the shipment. The King and Cardinal Wolseley then burned the shipment at Paul Cross. Surprisingly enough, a few copies survived of which two copies are in display in England.
2.3.2 Tyndale Died under Torture.
The destruction of the shipment of English Bibles has resulted that Tyndale received financial support to reprint the English Bibles. Various copies found their way into England, of which were also later set alight
Soon after Tyndale was captured and suffered a torture of 16months. He died on 6 October 1536 when he was strangled and set alight. His last words were: ‘….Lord, open the King of England’s eyes’ and he died.
2.3.3 The result of Tyndale’s work
Tyndale achieved a historical goal and favor to the English people. Not only did he bring a bible to them, but also like Martin Luther, left a new pure English language to them. After his death several new other bibles saw the light of which 80% of the ‘Authorized Versions’ contained some of his phrases and expressions. Tyndale had a remarkable talent for the Greek and Hebrew language. It can be said that Tyndale invented ‘The Kings English Bible’
2.4 The ‘Coverdale Bible’
The Coverdale came out in 1535 and was named the ‘Treacle Bible’ in reference to Jeremiah 8:25. Ironically enough, this bible was presented to the King of England, which he accepted. In reality, it was just a copy of the Tyndale Bible. Another Tyndale bible saw the light in 1557 which was then also presented to the king and accepted by him. It also had a few mistakes in it that rendered it the name of the ‘Bugs Bible’ as in Psalm 91:5 it read; ‘Thou shalt not need be afraid for bugs by night’.
2.5 The King James Bible (Authorized Version)
In 1604, King James gave permission that a new bible be compiled under his protection. A Committee of 54 scribes were assigned to the project with the understanding that they make use of the original languages of the bible as well as to consult from the Vulgate. The first copy saw the light in 1613. It became the Authorized Version, and for 3 decades it was used as the best Bible in England and is known as the King James Version of which are still in use today. A 10,000 copies was published in 1631, but was destroyed because of a printing error when the word “Not” was left out which had a misperception about adultery. It have read; ‘Thou shalt commit adultry’. The copies were destroyed and the bible got the nick name of the “Wicket Bible” The scribes has received a fine of R300, 00 which was a lot of money at the time.
2.5.1 Popularity of the King James Version
It was the English Bible for 300 year and was called ‘The Bible’ An Bible based on the Tyndale Bible. This Bible was so popular that about 11,000 romantic books were written with Titles stemming from this Bible. One mistake remained in the Bible which was later corrected with the New King James Version and it was in Matt. 23:24 ‘Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat and swallow a camel’. It should have read ‘Ye blind guides, which strain out a gnat and swallow a camel’.
2.6 The ‘Revised Version’
At the end of the 19th decade (1870), Bishop Samuel Wilberforce suggested that a new version of the old King James be translated as:
- Several scripts were discovered afterwards that contained valuable information.
- Due to that the Greek and Hebrew scripts were far richer and purer in language.
- The English Language has changed dramatically over the years and that people did not use the old English Saxe language anymore. The everyday Verbal and Written Language was much easier to read and more stressful.
A special task team made up of scribes from England and the USA was appointed to translate the bible into user friendly English. The New Testament came out in 1881, and the Old Testament in 1885 and the epistle books in 1895.
The foreign names like ‘knave’ became ‘boy’ ‘cracknel’ became ‘cake’, ‘Qunch’ became ‘living’, ‘botch’ became ‘boil’, ‘Holy Ghost’ became ‘Holy spirit’, ‘Sheol’ became ‘hell’. ‘Our Father which art in heaven’ became ‘who art in heaven’, etc.
2.6.1 Popularity of the ‘Revised version’
The ‘Revised Version’ became more popular as the Old King James Version. Some of the elder people still like the O.K.J.V. because the NKJV does not Rhyme like the OKJV. The majority of preachers and Theology institutions make use of the NKJV.
2.7 The ‘New English Bible’
In 1948 the churches in England nominated a committee to look at a New Modern English Bible. It was the Church in Scotland that came up with this request. In 1961 on the 350st birthday of the K.J.V. the Scribes published the New Testament of the English Bible (N.E.B.)
Four million copies of this Bible were sold within 12 months of publication. The Old Testament then came out in 1970 of which all the copies were sold out within one month.
2.7.1 Identification of ‘New English Bible’
The N.E.B. is written in modern English and certain verses are quite radical and disrespectful. It makes the following statements:
‘This fellow Jesus’. (Joh. 6:62). And ‘This is more than we can stomach’. Even the verses doesn’t follow like the OKJV, but is quoted on the side line.
The other features are that the traditional “Black Outer Cover” has been replaced by multi color covers. White, Blue, Brown etc.
3.0 Modern American Translations.
America published the modern ‘Good News Bible for Modern Man’. It is s soft cover Book full of sketches to demonstrate situations. It too became a quick seller and one of the easiest ways to spread the Gospel to the Nation
4.0 The New Bible of the Roman Church
The popularity of the Other Modern Bibles made the Roman Catholic realized that they too will have to publish a new Vulgate to stay in the running. They published a revised version which they called ‘The Jerusalem Bible’ It contains no Side Reference at all.
5.0 Summary
We are fortunate to live in modern times and to have a Bible, Word of God in our own Language. A lot of people have gone through a lot of strain to get the Bible in circulation. We must not just accept that the Bible came easy.
Lecture 6
1.0 Introduction
The following are of importance.
1.1 A Good Quality Bible is a Must
It is important to have a Bible of good quality, preferably the new King Kames Version. We propose a Bible with a Hard Cover made from Leather.
1.2 New Translations.
The modern day Bibles are easy to use as study Bibles. The popular Bibles in use by most of the churches are the NKJV, the NIV, Living Bible and the Amplified Bible. It is also suggested that students buy a good concordance as a reference guide.
1.3 Concordance
A Concordance is a Bible Reference Book. In actual fact it is a “must have” for Bible Students. There are also various concordances on the market, but the following books are most commonly used. “Strong’s, Young’s, Crudence, Vines of Nave”. The Concordance is handy in that it refers to verses with the same topics, statements and even to compare the words with the original Hebrew and Greek words.
Students can also acquire E-SWORD, which is a CD that contains an electronic version of all the popular Bibles. It even has got a concordance option to compare verses and topics. What makes it popular is that one can compare the Same Verse with ail other Bibles at the same time on one page. The E-Sword makes it easy to search for any scripture in any Bible. You can even Copy & Print your inquiries.
1.4 Note Book
It is suggested that students buy a note book to capture verses and messages from God. It is also good to make notes on sermons attended in order to compare messages and to dot down revelations.
2.0 Prepare for Bible Study
Bible study is very important in any person’s life, especially in the life of the re born Christian. The Bible is the Word of God and is full of Spiritual Promises and Revelations, which can only be detected by the Holy Spirit in us. The Unredeemed find it difficult to understand or to apply in the everyday life.
2.1 To be Born Again (Redeemed)
Bible students must be Reborn Christians and must have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Only the Saved will understand the Full Meaning of the Scriptures.
1Co 2:11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
2.2 Biblical Inspirations.
Bible students should be fully aware to as to who their God is. We have compiled the “God Head” as a revelation document to assist students to understand what God and The Bible is all about. The Bible must talk to you and you must talk to God, Prey, Prey and Prey for God’s revelations in your life so that you can understand the scriptures. This is important as the Bible and Holy Spirit will reveal certain things to you that you cannot otherwise understand. Submit to the Holy Spirit and you will receive revelations.
2.3 Love your Bible
Learn to love the Bible and it will come alive.
2.4 Pray for Insight
Pray for Insight into the scriptures and the revelations will come as well. The emphasis is to obtain a “Teachable Spirit”
2.5 Obedience
Students must abide the spirit of God. Satan did not obey the Spirit of God and was kicked out of heaven.
2.6 Bible studies must become a Life Style
Bible study should become a Life Style and not a practice
3.0 The advantages of Bible Study
To study the Bible is not only advantages to learn the “Word” of God, but it will also teach you to discover the God of the word. Listed below are some of the advantages in stored for us:
3.1 Personal Faith
You will find that your faith grows as you read and study the Bible. God is the source of the Bible and by studying the Bible we discover Him and all His promises to His people. God is the God of the Word and the Bible is the written Word of God.
Rom 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
3.2 Strive to live a Holy Life
The great late Moody ones said “The Bible keeps you away from sin and sin keep you away from the Bible” Therefore we must strive to live a Holy Life for only those who is pure of heart will enter the kingdom of God.
3.3 Prepare to become a Disciple of God.
It is virtually impossible to become a disciple of God if one does not know the word of God and how to apply it. We must take note that it is the Word of God that saves souls and not our arguments or preaching. The Holy Spirit of God does the word. Al that we have to do is to use the Lords Name, which is off course Jesus, and He will do the rest. The Bible is the Spiritual Sword of God.
Eph 6:17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
3.4 The Power of the Word of God
You will receive power from God when you minister the word of God. It is however important to have a healthy prayer life and a relationship with God to enhance the trust in the Holy Spirit. The Bible is our guide to empower and to exhort people in a Godly manner.
3.5 Knowledge
There is no greater source than the Bible to expand your knowledge in Theology. Bible study expand your knowledge and wisdom to deal with the Word of God and the God of the Word
3.6 Bible Study
The advantage of Bible study will produce the following results:
3.6.1. It prevents us from sinning against God.
Psa 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
3.6.2. It protects us against false doctrines
Act 20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
Act 20:30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
Act 20:31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
Act 20:32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
3.6.3. Bible Study Brings Forth Joy
Jer 15:16 Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.
3.6.4. It brings peace to the inner being.
Exo 14:14 The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.
Isa 54:10 For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.
3.6.5 Bible Reveals Enemies.
1Jn 2:22 Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.
3.6.6 Bible Study Enhances our Prayer Life
Joh 15:7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
3.6.7 It Gives Us Wisdom
Psa 119:98 Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.
Psa 119:100 I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.
Psa 119:130 The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.
3.6.8 It Makes Us Whole.
2Ti 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
2Ti 3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
3.7 Rules Applicable in Bible Study.
One must have a strong discipline to do Bible Study and in order to achieve this one must be:
3.7.1 Become a Reborn Christian
Bible study takes one into the deepest secrets of God. A lot of revelation theology is captured in the word that can only be discovered by the Re Born Child of God. Spiritual messages come via the Spirit of God and therefore one must desire to become spiritually filled to receive the promises of God.
3.7.2 Spiritual Preparation
Take time and discover your real spiritual status with God before you start bible studies and measure your spiritual growth over three months and see for yourself the knowledge obtained by studying the Word of God. Renew your mind and depart from the destructive things of the past. Pray for help and guidance.
3.7.3 Open to keep the Word Simple
The Word tells us that the word of God is simple so that even a child can understand it. It is amazing how many people complicates it instead of reading the text in a literal way unless one cannot understand it literally and needs spiritual; guidance
3.7.4 Read the Word and discovers the relevance.
The theme of discussion must bear relevance to the scriptures under discussion. Every verse should also be read in context to the time, place and circumstances that it is meant for.
The Bible is the fruit for our mind and spirit.
3.7.5 Threefold Approach
A text has got a Three Fold Revelation
The primary meaning.
The Spiritual message.
The symbolic or Prophetic message.
Refer to the messages given to the seven churches in Revelations 2 & 3
+ The primary messages was for the church of the time
+ The spiritual message is for us and the churches to come.
+ The prophetic message is that the message is for each of the churches over a specific period of time. Commonly known as a church dispensation.
4.0 Summary
The Word of God is precious, make it part of your life. It is not only for Sunday service only. No, it is an everyday food for the soul. “Lord Gives us our Daily Bread” Jesus is the Bread of Life.
2Ti 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Lecture 7
1.0 Introduction
In this lecture we are going to look as to what is needed to become a successful bible study student.
2.0 Routes to follow
The following are some of the routes to follow:
2.1 The Choice of a specific book.
Select a Book in the Bible that you want to study and become a master of that book. Like The Evangelic Book of John, 1 John, 2 John and Geneses, Proverbs etc.
Detect a theme from the chapter and concentrate to detect the revelation behind the scriptures.
You have to dot a few headings and points of interest down to determine the correct Topic or Theme for your message. Write the scriptures of interest down and refer to the context of the message.
2.2 The Composer of the Book
Learn about the author or composer of the book to determine his character and history. Try to discover what the book is all about and the story depicted by it. A good concordance will be helpful to search for specific topics and key words and verses referring to the same topic. Where possible couple a descriptive word to the topic, i.e. David the King, David the Victorious etc.
2.3 The place that it was written at
Find out where and when the book was written. Where possible supply the name of a place to explain more about the person in question, i.e. Jesus of Nazareth.
2.4 Who was the audience?
To whom was the book written, and the reason as to why they were mentioned in the book.
2.5 How to address things that you don’t understand.
Make a list with columns on all the paragraphs, verses, words, and expressions that you don’t understand.
2.6 Can you discover Jesus in the book?
What does the book teach us about God and Jesus Christ and does it refer to Christ Like persons. Apply the principles of Theology to find the Christ and Christ like entities.
3.0 How to study Chapters of the Bible.
There are 1189 chapters in the Bible of which many are popular for ages like
Psa 23, 1 Cor 13, John1:1 etc.
3.1 Determine the Context of the Chapter.
Find out what the Chapter is all about and read it in context with other scriptures that refers to the same event. A prophesy in the Old Testament always comes to pass in the New Testament.
3.2 Determine the Key Verse
In studying the Bible you will find that there is always a Key Verse in any Paragraph that depicts and reveals the meaning of the passage. Write it down and define the message.
3.3 Determine the Main Characters.
Determine who the main characters are and write their Names down and the history around them. Find out if it reveals or peaks about Christ. One must understand that the New Testament is all about the Immanuel, God with us. The Scriptures should all be Christ Centric.
3.4 Are there any Instructions involved?
Identify the instructions to be obeyed. Are they tangible to obey? Do they make sense and are reasonable to follow? Would you follow them? Does it make sense?
3.5 Are there any Promises?
What are the promises? Are they fulfilled? If not, why not. Is it relevant in our dispensation are for a future dispensation? Do we have to obey them?
3.6 Is there a Lesson in It?
What is the message to us? What do we need to do and follow? If there is no lesson or instruction, then it is will be of significance to read the whole paragraph or chapter to discover the meaning of the message to us. It is always wise to consult with your Tutor or Pastor to assist you to understand the message
4.0 How to Study Bible Doctrine
The main function of Bible Study is to discover the True Doctrine captured in the Bible. The aim of the Bible, the Word of God, is to apply the Word of God into your life. Students must start off by studying the Books of the Bible and the Context of the Chapter in order to determine God’s doctrine and not to follow the Doctrine of Any Church Movement. The Doctrine of God will lead you to eternal life whereas the Church Doctrine can keep you away from eternal life. Believe God and Not your Religious Faith! Be careful not to base church doctrine on just one verse, as Bible Doctrine is always supported by two or more verses in the bible, it will be stated by the Old Testament and Revealed by the New Testament. For instance, The Immanuel was prophesize by Isaiah in the Old Testament and became Flesh, Jesus, in the New Testament. Immanuel is God in the New Testament. Jesus was God with us. John 1:1 to John 1:14 He is also the Tabernacle in the New Testament.
4.1 Study Bible References
Compile a list on all references relevant to one another by making use of a good concordance. E-Sword is a handy tool to use. Copy the various cross references and follow God’s Doctrine, not the Doctrine of man. Find out what they have in common.
5.0 Study Biblical Biography
To study Biblical Biography is very interesting in that one discovers the essence of the different names and characters in the Bible. There are 2,930 individuals named in the bible. They range from men to woman, children to elders, hero’s to cowards, Dynamic to Weak characters, Murderers to Kings etc.
5.1 Characteristics
Identify their characteristics. What are their strong points and weaknesses? What role did they play in the history of the bible? Who do they identify with? Is there anything or a message in it for us?
5.2 People with the same Names
Care must be taken not to get confused between characters with the same names. There are 30 references to the name Zachariah for instance, 20 to the name Nathan, 15 to Jonathan, 8 to Jude, 7 to Mary, 5 to James, and 5 to John. Care must be taken not to confuse a name and think that the Name in one Book referred to is the same person in another book. For example, John the Baptist Is not John the Apostle of God, and the identities of James the brother of John and James the flesh Brother of Jesus Christ are two different persons.
5.3 The Meaning of a Name
Find out what the meaning of a name is? You can make use of a Young’s concordance to assist you in this matter. A name can tell you a lot about a person and his family tree.
5.4 Functions and Social Development.
What input and role did a person played in the social development of the nation or God’s People? Ezra tutors about the laws and moral standards of people whereas Nehemiah concentrated on the socio development and security with the rebuilding of the walls around Jerusalem.
5.5 Crisis’s
Find out what crisis’s played a role during their life time and how they handled it and how it was dissolved
5.6 Friends and Enemies.
Who was the main character and who were his friends? Was he a friend or enemy? What impact did he have? For instance Paul previously was the enemy of Jesus Christ Saul which became the friend of the Christian movement and was renamed by God as Paul. His friends, the church then became his enemies.
5.7 Mistakes Made
Find out about the mistakes and successes achieved by the person. Was the mistakes made due to pride, sin, or humiliation or was it based due to humanity, innocence, ignorance and or demonic influences? Peter was brave in chopping the ear of Malchas but fearful and with the spirit of denial when denied that he was a disciple of God.
5.8 Attributes and Lessons learned
What attributes contributed to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ? Are they an inspiration to us?
Is there a lesson to be learned from the character of the person and how can we learn from it?
6.0 How to discover Miracles in the Bible
To discover the secrets about miracle s should be of interest to the Bible Student. We must always seek the revelation theology behind a miracle incident in the Bible. The following are guide lines to follow:
6.1 The Message behind Miracle
Miracles and Wonders are the manifestation of God’s Power and Authority to perform the Supernatural Miracles that no man or foreign god can perform. Not only does it replace the natural with the super natural, but also enlighten the spirit and soul of man. It also reveals the one and only true God, Jehovah Jirrah, Jesus the Christ.
6.2 Miracles within the Bible
There are 62 miracles performed in the Old Testament performed by God and his Anointed men and 40 Miracles performed by Jesus Christ and 15 miracles performed by the Disciples of God in the New Testament.
The question seldom arises whether God still perform Miracles today. The answer is yes most definitely. I, myself has experience miracle works in my life time and saw many performed by common people and Anointed Men of God. I have also heard many testimonies about miracles. One can go onto the Internet and see for yourself. Study the word and discover them and how it happened and what the message behind it was.
7.0 Biblical Parables
Jesus has used many Parables to sketch Reality Stories and Spiritual messages. Don’t build Church Doctrine on Parables but rather use the Parables to reveal Gods Messages to his people. A parable is an illustration of life experiences and expectancies. Let’s look at the Following:
Why the Parable.
To Whom was it delivered to, who was the Audience?
The message behind it?
Are the message still relevant today?
Lecture 8
1.0 The Inspiration of the Bible
God, the Creator is the Author and raised 40 men up to write the Bible into a complete Book over a period of 1,600 years. Its message is to reveal the One and Only True God and His Kingdom Rule over everything in Heaven, On Earth and Under the Earth. It also reveals God’s plans for His Chosen People as well as the Faith nations commonly known as the Gentiles. Inspiration means “The Breath Of God”
2Ti 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
2Pe 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
2.0 God Himself only wrote 3 Times.
The Bible only refers to 3 occasions where God Himself Wrote messages to His people.
2.1 With the issue of the Ten Commandments. On the Mountain Sinai
God Himself wrote the Ten Commandments onto the stone slabs on Mount Sinai. In fact he wrote it Twice as Moses has dropped the tablets out of pure anger when he realized what Israel did when they build the Golden Calf.
Exo 31:18 And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.
2.2 In the Palace of Belshazzar
The Hand of God wrote the Devastating message on the wall in Belshazzar’s temple when Belshazzar used the Golden cups from the Temple of God to entertain his common law wife’s and prostitutes. These items were confiscated from Israel during a defeat of Israel by Nebuchadnezzar, the late father of Belshazzar and placed in custody in the temple of Nebuchadnezzar. This curse came to be because the Holy Equipment of God was used to perform unholy rituals.
Dan 5:5 In the same hour came forth fingers of a man’s hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaister of the wall of the king’s palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote.
2.3 The Message of Grace by Jesus Christ
Jesus, God in the Flesh, wrote a message in the sand when people of Israel brought forth a woman to Him that was caught in the act of adultery. When they wanted Jesus to comment on the act of sin, He spoke to them and wrote with His fingers in the Sand. What was the message? Can it be “Your Sins are forgiven?
Joh 8:6 This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.
2.4. The Message to Man
The first Message from God was the Law of Condemnation and the second Message is the Law of Grace.
3.0 The Prophesies and Its Fulfillment
3.1. Prophesies are Messages from God of Things to Come
The Scribes did not always understand what they wrote down as God gave the Words.
Only after Studying the Word could they discovered what some of the Prophesies meant and saw the rest as projections for the future. Prophesies is also subjected to Revelation Theory and can only be revealed by the Holy Spirit. Although some of the Prophesies made by Jesus Christ when He moved with His Apostles materialized during their life time, but most of them are messages relevant to us and the generations to come.
3.2. Peter Wrote.
1Pe 1:12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
3.3. Daniel Wrote.
Dan 12:8 And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things?
Dan 12:9 And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.
3.4. David Wrote
Psa 22:16 For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet.
Psa 22:18 They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture.
4.0. Revelations
A “Revelation” is an act of God to reveal facts and things to come. Only those enlighten by the Holy Spirit of God will discover and understand the revelations of God to His people. It is Spiritually Inspired and as such can only be Spiritually Revealed. God and His Kingdom is a Spiritual Realm! The Bible is Godly Inspired to reveal things to man that God only wants His chosen to understand.
1Co 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
Mat 16:17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.
5.0 The Bible should be Read in a Figurative Way
It would be wrong not to interoperate the Bible Figuratively. The Word is word inspired and as such it brings a lot of messages in a simple way and is it relevant to believe what you read. Only when you cannot understand it in a figurative way should one alternatively revert to the Spiritual revelation of it.
Heb 12:27 And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.
Hag 2:6 For thus saith the LORD of hosts; Yet once, it is a little while, and I will shake the heavens, and the earth, and the sea, and the dry land;
5.1 The message captured in a single word.
Sometimes one word can be very descriptive to reveal a message from God. Gal. 3:16 – Refers to one Seed and not Seeds” That Seed is Jesus Christ. God fulfilled his Covenant Agreement with Abraham by amalgamating the Seed of The Chosen Nation with the Gentile Nation. This is captured in the Book of Ruth where Boas married Ruth of the Moabites. Abed, Jesse, David and eventually Jesus Christ were born out of this Seed and Blood Line.
Gal 3:16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.
Rth 4:13 So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son.
Rth 4:22 And Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David.
The Literal Inspiration means that every word is literally inspired by God Himself.
7.6 The Message on The Cross
The inscription on the sign board on the Cross depicted Jesus as The King of The Jews although the Jews denied him to be the Messiah to come.
Joh 19:19 And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS.
7.7. Revelations.
“Revelations” are acts of God that are hidden in the scriptures and cannot be revealed by the naked eye but only by inspiration By the Holy Spirit. Most of the time it is a message of things to Come, known as a Futuristic Message.
7.8. Enlighten.
“Enlighten” is the spiritual influence by The Holy Spirit of God which influences the thinking and spiritual life of man to understand the hidden messages and revelations captured in the Bible.
Lecture 9
1.0 The Significance of Numbers & Figures in the Bible
In studying the Bible one only realizes the significance of figures in the Bible. Numbers plays a major role in the Word of God and the revelation of messages.
2.0 The Numbers 1-13
These figures play a definite role and by multiplying some of the figures it changes the message as well. We are going to cover the meaning of each of number quoted in the Bible.
3.0 Number One
One is the primary number in all numbers. Number One is God’s number as the One and Only True God.
4.0 Number Two
Two is the number of division. It is also the number for witnesses and it means that there might be a difference of opinion.
Mankind is divided into two groups. The Faith Nations and Gentile Nations. The Believers and the Non Believers .The Righteous and Unrighteous. The first Adam and the second Adam. The Old and the New Testament. Two covenants.
1Co 15:45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit.
1Co 15:46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual.
1Co 15:47 The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven.
5.0 Number Three
Three is the number for Unity and Perfection. Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The Word, Water and Blood. Spirit, Soul and Body.
6.0 Number Four
Four is the Number for Creation. God created all material things on day Four. There are Four Seasons. Four Wind Directions and the Four Evangelic Books. Mathew, Marc, Luke and John. Animals move on four legs. Lazarus was dead for four days.
The Four heavenly creatures. Man, Lion. Bull and Eagle.
7.0 Number Five
Five is the number for the Grace of God. It is also represents the Number of names used to describe the Authority of God.
Isaiah 9:5. Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Jesus took 5 loafs of bread to feed the multitudes of Five thousand. The Five fold Ministry. Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Preachers and Teachers.
8.0 Number Six
Six is the Number for Man. Man was created on day six. Man shall work for six days of the week. 666 is the Number of Man and for the Beast.
Rev 13:18 Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.
9.0 Number Seven
Seven is the Number for the Fullness of God. Number Seven is used over 600 times in the Bible.
Jacob worked seven years for Lea and seven years for Rachel
The book of Revelations speaks about the Seven Churches, the seven candles, the seven stars, the seven measures, the seven new things to come.
10.0 Number Eight
Eight is the number of resurrection.
The new week starts on day eight. All the baby boys of Israel had to be circumcised on day eight.
David is the eight son of Jesse.
Eight scribes wrote the New Testament. Mathew, Marc, Luke, John, Paul, James, Peter, and Jude.
11.0 Number Nine
Nine is the number for Condemnation and finality. Jesus was nailed to the Cross after three hours of torture and three hours later total darkness filled the earth and Jesus died on the ninth hour of absolute horrific Torture. 3hrs Assault, 3hours tortured on the Cross and three hours darkness. 3+3+3= 9hrs of suffering.
Luk 23:44 And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour.
A baby is born nine months after conception.
There are nine spiritual Gifts of God. 1Cor 12:4 – 11. All of the Same Spirit
1Co 12:8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
1Co 12:9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
1Co 12:10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
1Co 12:11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
1Co 12:12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
12.0 Number Ten
TEN is also a perfect number. Man has got Ten Toes and Ten Fingers.
The Ten Commandments of God.
Ten Plagues hit Egypt.
Man must give a Tenth of his income towards the house of the Lord
13.0 Number Eleven
Eleven is the Number for disruption is disorder. It is one more than Ten but also one less than twelve.
Mat 20:6 And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle?
There used to be twelfe disciples of God and after Jude sold Jesus out there was only even left. Eleven means uncompleteness. Therefore they had to vote to get another disciple appointed in the place of Jude that committed suicide
14.0 Number Twelve
Twelve the number of Perfection.
Jesus selected Twelve Disciples.
The Twelve Tribes of Israel.
Twelve Loafs of Bread in the Tabernacle.
The Twelve Foundations of the New Jerusalem.
The Twelve entry ports to the City of Jerusalem.
Twelve Months in a Year. 12Hours day time and 12hours night time = 2×12=24
15.0 Number Thirteen
Thirteen is the Number for Rebellion. (Apostasy)
Nimrod, the rebel, was from the 13th generation after Adam.
Ishmael was thirteen when he was circumcised.
Ephraim became the 13th Tribe of Israel.
Although there were 12 Tribes in Israel, the Tribe of Levy did no active military service or other daily tasks as they were chosen to performed Temple duties. As such the two sons of Joseph, Ephraim and Manassa, was chosen as tribes into Israel to give recognition to Joseph the son of Jacob that were sold to the Egyptians by his own brothers)
Lecture 10
1.0 Introduction
Today we are going to look at the various historic phases or so called Dispensations, covered in the history of God with His People. Dispensation is a modern word that is not captured in the Bible and as such we should not let a specific period or Dispensation become a doctrine to follow, but to rather apply the Bible in Context n our lives. There might be a lot of scriptures that might not be relevant on our lives today, but the same principals might be relevant so that History not be repeated. We don’t have to go back to the Sacrifice and Offer system or Circumcision of the skin, but rather follow the revelation theory that God has in stored for us. The Old testament is a testimony of things happened and contains prophesies that are relevant throughout the time to come, whereas the New Testament is the fulfillment of the Prophesies and an indication of what is to come on the last days of the corrupt world and of the promises of the incorruptible world, Dispensation, to come.
1.1 Dispensation
Dispensation is a period in time when God connected with His people to deal with the sin nature of man and to stamp down His authority as the One and Only True God and the Promises that He has for those who follows Him.
Dispensations could refer to the law or arrangement of a house. It means ‘stewardship, office or commission, words which involve the idea of administration’ (Nave’s p237
Eph 10 refers to God’s Salvation plan for man.
Eph 1:10 That in the dispensation of the fullness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
1.2 Tests to man
God has exposed man to various tests on obedience to Him over certain dispensations. Gen 3; Adam and Eve; Gen4:7; Sin of Man; Gen 18:20 Sodom and Gomorrah, etc.
2.0 The various dispensations
There are seven dispensations between the books of Geneses and Revelations.
2.1 Dispensation of Innocence
2.1.1 Time Frame:
The first dispensation is between Gen 1:26 and Gen 2:23. It started with the creation up to the sin of man.
2.1.2 The responsibility of man
God has created man to serve Him and to look after the things on earth. God created man with a will, something that no other creation has. Man was tempted by Satan and had a choice to obey God or to follow his own mind to believe the Serpent which is Satan.
2.1.3 The consequences of mans choice
Man made the mistake in disobeying Gods instructions and to rather fall for the lies of Satan. Disobedience has removed man from the glory of God and the result was the exposition from the Garden of Eden. Whereas God has created man to be immortal, sin brought death upon man and a mortal life span of plus minus 100years.
2.2 Dispensation of the Conscience of Man
2.2.1 Time Frame
This is the period of 1656 years between the expulsions of man from the Garden of Eden up to the Great Flood of times. Genesis 3-7.
2.2.2 Responsibility of Man
Although man was banned from the Garden of Eden, God’s instructions to man to fill the earth and to maintain it, has never changed. Man was left with the choice to do as he felt and also had the choice to either follow God or to follow Satan. Unfortunately man chose the sin nature and not the Godly nature. This has upset God and He regretted that He has made man.
2.2.3 The Consequences
The action of man had serious consequences. God has decided to destroy life on earth and brought forth the great flood of times. It must be understood that it has never rained on earth before as the earth was moistened by dew. The consequence was that only Eight People and some animals were saved by the grace of God when Noah pleaded to God. Only Noah and his family were saved. God instructed Noah to build the Arc and God Himself locked and Sealed the door so that no man could get in or out. Man could not save anything that God has intended to die. It rained for 40days and 40 nights until the water has submerged the earth. It took 6months before the water subsided to a level that the Arc could land on the highest mountain tip.
2.3 Dispensation of the Obedience and the Reign of Man.
2.3.1 Time Frame
This was a period of about 427 years between the Great Flood and the construction of the Tower of Babel when God had to implement various languages to confuse man in order to stop the construction of the Tower.
2.3.2 Transfer of Responsibilities
God gave Noah the responsibility to rule over man from the time that they boarded the arc up to the Tower of Babel. Although Noah was a righteous man he also committed sin when he got drunk on the fruits of his first harvest on the new earth to speak. Noah also allowed the people to build the Tower of Babel. This was against God’s principles as it was meant for man to fill the earth and not to stay in one place.
2.3.3 The Consequences
Noah failed as a leader and the people manipulated him to build the Tower of Babel. The building of the Tower was due to rebellion against God and a pure political plot, to ignore God’ s nstructions to go out and populate the world. God stepped in and disrupted man’s will by confusing their language. He simply changed the Tong, the one language principal fell away and everyone received his own language. Then only did man moved out and started to populate the world.
2.4 Dispensation of the Promises of God
2.4.1 Time Frame plus minus 430 years
This period was from the time when God called Abraham, the man of Ur of the Chaldeans up to the time that Moses was called to lead Israel out of Egypt. Refer to Gen. 11: 10 up to Gen 15: 21.
2.4.2 Mans responsibilities.
Abraham had to move to the place that God has moved him too. Don’t move unless God instructed you to go. Abraham has moved to Egypt, the place of oppression, without God’s approval to seek food for his people and it turned into a disasters move. Israel was exposed to foreign gods and slavery.
2.5 Dispensation of Laws
2.5.1. Time Frame. (Plus minus 1491 years)
This is the period from the time that Israel got to Mount Sinai up until the Crucifix of Jesus Christ.
2.5.2. Responsibility of Man
God gave Moses instructions to go and tell Pharaoh to let God’s people move out to the desert to go and Worship him for three days. Israel became rebellious and God gave Moses the |Ten Commandments to be applicable to His people. The Ten Commandments required that man had to be perfect in the eyes of God, a law that they could simply not uphold and Jesus, the Son of God, had to become the Tabernacle.
Psa 19:8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
2.5.3. Failures of Man
Man simply failed to uphold the Ten Commandments or Law of Moses as it is known. God had to set man free from the Law and to introduce the Grace of God. By doing that the God of Wrath of the Old Testament became the God of Love and Grace in the New Testament.
2.6 Dispensation of Grace (Holy Spirit Dispensation)
2.6.1 Time Frame
This dispensation is dated from the Day of Pentecost up to the day of the Rapture of the Church. Although the Holy Spirit was poured out 2,000 plus years ago, the Rapture is still to come. The Church Era will make way for the Oppression Dispensation.
2.6.2 The Responsibility of Man.
Mankind has to repent from their sin and believe that Jesus Christ is the Lord and Savior. The Gospel of Jesus Christ started from the day that Jesus has risen from the dead and is to be preached to all Nations of the World before Jesus Christ will return from heaven to fetch His Bride, the Church
2.6.3 Failure of Mankind.
Unfortunately not all of mankind is accepting Jesus as The Christ and will pay with their life when the day of the Whit Throne Judgment is to come. God has given us the choice to accept or reject Him. The sin nature of man keeps us away from the Glory of God. The wages of Sin is Eternal Hell whereas the Wages of The Believe in Jesus Christ as Lord is a promise made by God, that whosoever believe in Jesus Christ and accept Him as lord and Savior will be called a child of God and destined for Eternal life with Jesus Christ, where He will reign as God over His people.
2.7 Dispensation of the Kingdom of God
2.7.1 Time Frame
This is the period captured in the Bible dating from the time that Jesus Christ will rapture the Church until the time of the White Throne Judgment. The Kingdom Dispensation will be plus minus 1,000 years.
2.7.2 The responsibility of Man.
Jesus has given us the promise of eternal life and a life without condemnation and grace. All that man has to do is to accept Jesus Christ into their lives and that they will become His children. God also wants to talk to us vie the Holy Spirit and thus we must pray daily to receive His Love and Grace.
2.7.3 The destiny of Man.
Many people will once again forsake God and follow Stan’s idols. Those who deny Him and curse Him will spend eternal life in Hell. It must be reiterated that the Hell belongs to God and not to Satan. The hell is the place of fire designated for Satan and his followers.
3.0 The Crises Experienced during each Dispensation
History has taught us that every Dispensation ended up in a world crisis. Listed below is a table of content on the crisis’s that accompanied each Dispensation:
Dispensation Crises
Innocence: Expulsion from the Garden of Eden.
Conscience: Great Flood
Leadership of Man: Confused at the Tower of Babel
Promises: Slavery to Israel.
Law of Moses: The Cross
Grace: Rapture of the Church and Satan’s binding
Kingdom: Wrath of God. Fire from Heaven
4.0 God’s Communication to Man with Each Dispensation
Innocence: One to One in the Garden of Eden.
Conscience: God spoke to Noah
Leadership of man: God spoke to His sons. Let us Go Down!
Promises: “God spoke to Moses (Burning bush & Jesus)
Law of Moses: Jesus and the Holy Spirit
Grace: Via Apostle John in Revelations
Kingdom: He will be the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
5.0 The Importance of the Dispensations.
5.1 Clarity
Each dispensation must be read in context and should be evaluated in a spiritual way. Many of the statements are very much relevant today, but some are meant for the times gone by and others for the times to come.
5.2 Wisdom
‘History should not repeat itself. That means that we should learn from the mistakes and goodwill of the past. The Church should be aware to not going back to the Laws of Moses and the Levites. That is that we are not to idle days, feasts, offerings, working via priests and idolizes symbols of man.
The 144,000 referred to in Revelations are applicable to the end time tribulation period were the Jews and Israelites will have a representation of 120 members each from the 12 tribes of Israel. Don’t base doctrine, like what the Jehovah Witnesses are doing, on scripture, but rather let the word of God be the Voice of God to you. Any movement or church that base doctrine on isolated scriptures is known as sect.
5.3 Believe and Pray
Eschatology is about the end time period and the only way you will miss it is if your life is in order with God. No Sin will enter the Kingdom of God and no One denying the Christ will be ruptured. Pray for help and Spiritual guidance to ensure that you Receive Christ and to prevent the Trails and Tribulations
6.0 Revelations
The revelation hidden in the Bible that can only be revealed by the Holy Spirit is that Jesus Christ is God and the Lord of All. John1:1-14; 1John 5:7, 8 & 20.