An Eye on the Sky
This post contains key verses and my thoughts supporting what I believe to be an overlooked truth unheralded in today’s mainstream theology. I’m convinced the Scriptures teach that before Jesus returns from heaven to earth; others identified in the Bible called by the names of my mighty ones, high ones, the weapons of His indignation will also come from heaven to earth -- prior to His return. Admittedly shocking news and virtually ignored in today’s Church, I believe this message deserves careful attention.
During the past twenty years, I’ve observed a trend developing -- other Bible students are asking hard questions and wrestling with the issues of paranormal activity. How does one understand these phenomena from a Biblical perspective? I believe the verses presented in this study give the Church a clear warning and an explanation for what is commonly referred to as alien abductions, UFO activity, and many other strange things that are being avoided and left unexplained from our pulpits and Bible studies.
I’ve developed similar studies in the past, compiling verses on topics such as the Day of the Lord, the Second Coming, the Rapture, the Tribulation, and other eschatological themes. My purpose in preparing this study is simple: contend for the faith and warn those who will hear. Of course, any effort of Biblical understanding and study requires much prayer and leading from God’s Holy Spirit. With that as a backdrop, let’s dive in.
I found the following comparison of the Antichrist’s counterfeit return with that of Jesus Christ’s Second Coming at this webpage . Please keep in mind I do not necessarily agree with all that is represented on this site, butI do think the following chart found at the bottom of their webpage is very interesting and I include it below for ease of reference.
Antichrist will Counterfeit Prophecy
The Second Coming of Christ
• Christ arrives at the end of a great war -- Armageddon
• The war will end in fire for the enemies of Israel
• Christ comes with His holy ones, His raptured saints
• Christ sets up an era of peace as ruler of the earth
• Christ builds the Millennial Temple of Ezekiel 40
The Coming of Antichrist
• Antichrist arrives at the end of a great war -- Gog and Magog
• The war will end in fire for the enemies of Israel
• Antichrist comes with his ‘holy ones’ -- aliens in UFOs
• Antichrist sets up era of peace under global dictatorship
• Antichrist allows building of third Jerusalem Temple
‘When considering the identity of the Antichrist, keep in mind he will seem like the Messiah of Israel.’ A perceptive quote from the Watcher website referenced above.
Concept Verse:
“they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men.” Daniel 2:43a
Theme Verses:
They come from a far country, from the end of heaven, even the LORD, and the weapons of his indignation, to destroy the whole land. Isaiah 13:5
And it shall come to pass in that day, that the LORD shall punish the host of the high ones that are on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth. Isaiah 24:21
For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even to the dust. Isaiah 26:5
Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. Luke 21:26
But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. Matthew 24:37
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Ephesians 6:12
Key Concepts:
Something in the heavens is coming to earth---what or who is coming?
Not only are they coming, the Bible says they will mingle with man…
Anyone today claiming familiarity with the Biblical concept of the Second Coming will tell you Jesus returns from ‘out there in space’ at the end of Armageddon. Perhaps the Antichrist has a similar plan? After all, he will be the antithesis of the real Christ and the Bible says he and his workers are capable of much deception.
‘If it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.’ Matthew 24:24
Examination of theme verses:
Isaiah 13:3-11
I have commanded my sanctified ones, I have also called my mighty ones for mine anger, even them that rejoice in my highness. The noise of a multitude in the mountains, like as of a great people; a tumultuous noise of the kingdoms of nations gathered together: the LORD of hosts mustereth the host of the battle. They come from a far country, from the end of heaven, even the LORD, and the weapons of his indignation, to destroy the whole land. Howl ye; for the day of the LORD is at hand; it shall come as a destruction from the Almighty. Therefore shall all hands be faint, and every man's heart shall melt: And they shall be afraid: pangs and sorrows shall take hold of them; they shall be in pain as a woman that travaileth: they shall be amazed one at another; their faces shall be as flames. Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate: and he shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it. For the stars of heaven and the constellations thereof shall not give their light: the sun shall be darkened in his going forth, and the moon shall not cause her light to shine. And I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible.
Theme expansion:
These verses are internally defined and placed at the time of the day of the LORD (see verse 6). Notice God calls his sanctified ones. I believe this group consists of God’s holy angels and the humans who participate in the rapture (Old and New Testament saints who are born again. We see their return in Revelation 19). Also, God calls his mighty ones---specifically for His anger---perhaps better understood as the ‘weapons of His indignation’ mentioned in verse 5 of Isaiah 13.
Jeremiah 50:25
The LORD hath opened his armoury, and hath brought forth the weapons of his indignation: for this is the work of the Lord GOD of hosts in the land of the Chaldeans.
Jeremiah 50:25 contains the exact phrase weapons of His indignation. This specific phrase is used twice in the Bible: Jeremiah 50:25 and Isaiah 13:5. Observing both verses together, we see that God has an armoury and the weapons of this armoury are in heaven. The Bible instructs that someday they will be unleashed to come to earth.
Notice in Jeremiah, the weapons of His indignation are coming to the land of the Chaldeans. The land of the Chaldeans is generally understood to be the area of the Middle East associated with Babylon (Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and possibly Iran). We see in Isaiah 13, the weapons of His indignation are associated with Babylon, but they are also coming to destroy the whole land.
Who is Babylon? Is it literal Babylon, spiritual Babylon, both, a combination, or perhaps Hebrew poetic code for another super power? These are tough questions and I confess I don’t know the answers. However, the Chaldeans were also known for their wisdom and knowledge---especially in relation to ‘dark sayings’ and occult activity. We see in Daniel 2 they are listed in Nebuchadnezzar’s court alongside the magicians, sorcerers, and astrologers. We also understand Daniel participated in the Chaldean school in Babylon as described in Daniel 1:4.
As an interesting aside, the Hebrew word used here for mighty ones in Isaiah 13 is GIBBOWR. The Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew, translates GIBBOWR as GIGANTE, the Greek word for Giant! Similar language exist in Joel 2 (please see in a later note). Perhaps similarities to these Old Testament verses are made in Luke 21 where Jesus says “men’s hearts are failing them for fear, looking after those things which are coming upon the earth!” Also, verses 10-28 of Luke 21 portray an account similar to other Day of the LORD passages.
Isaiah 24:17-23.
Fear, and the pit, and the snare, are upon thee, O inhabitant of the earth. And it shall come to pass, that he who fleeth from the noise of the fear shall fall into the pit; and he that cometh up out of the midst of the pit shall be taken in the snare: for the windows from on high are open, and the foundations of the earth do shake. The earth is utterly broken down, the earth is clean dissolved, the earth is moved exceedingly. The earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard, and shall be removed like a cottage; and the transgression thereof shall be heavy upon it; and it shall fall, and not rise again. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the LORD shall punish the host of the high ones that are on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth. And they shall be gathered together, as prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison, and after many days shall they be visited. Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall reign in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients gloriously.
Theme expansion:
This passage states that God will punish a group of beings known as the high ones that are on high, and He will also punish the kings of the earth upon the earth. This action of judgment occurs at a future point in time when King Jesus physically returns to earth, commonly called the Day of the LORD. Understood as part of that future time---we see two different groups noted; the host of the high ones (Fallen Angels and other creatures perhaps referenced in Revelation 9 and Isaiah 13) and the kings of the earth--- (the leadership of mankind and man) on the earth. I find it most intriguing and interesting that God links these two groups together. I don’t believe this is happenstance.
The kings of the earth---the powerbrokers, could they represent the Illuminati? Perhaps they are linked with the ten kings who give their power and kingdoms to the Beast (see Revelation 17:12-14). These two groups, the kings of the earth and the host of the high ones will attempt to wage war against King Jesus at the end of Armageddon. Perhaps their motive in warring against Jesus is they are deceived into believing Jesus is someone else, perhaps another alien race, coming to destroy mankind. Of course, there is no way to be sure what they believe because God sends strong delusion during this time. I would say they are out of their minds by virtue of the fact created beings will entertain taking on their Creator in a battle! I’d say that’s deception. Satan is the father of lies, leading the world astray from the truth. Please read Revelation 19 for details.
Isaiah 26:5
For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even to the dust.
Theme expanion:
Here it is again! There were no men dwelling on high in Bible days. Perhaps you could argue that today men dwell on high in the space station and for short periods of time in jet airplanes---but not back in Old Testament days. This was a mystery until about fifty years ago when mankind began exploring the upper reaches of earth’s atmosphere. Space exploration began shortly thereafter. Therefore, I don’t believe this is speaking of men; rather I believe it refers to other created beings that dwell in the heavens, also mentioned in Ephesians 6:12. These ‘beings’ specifically come to destroy.
Jeremiah 4:15-16
For a voice declareth from Dan, and publisheth affliction from mount Ephraim. Make ye mention to the nations; behold, publish against Jerusalem, that watchers come from a far country, and give out their voice against the cities of Judah.
Theme expansion:
Notice the word “Watchers”. Daniel 4 adds additional insight (Clearly, heavenly beings are described in Daniel 4). Also, these beings come from a far country… Remember Isaiah 13:3-5!
Remember what Jesus said about a certain nobleman in the parable in Luke 19:12? “He said therefore, a certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.” I believe Jesus is teaching through this parable that He would leave earth and go to heaven, and He will return to earth in the future---from heaven. Perhaps the reference to a far country in Isaiah 13 literally means what it says---beings are coming before the Day of the Lord from a far country, further understood as the ends of heaven, to exact judgment on the inhabitants of the earth.
Job 1:6-7
Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them. And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.
Theme expansion:
For our benefit, God allows a glimpse into heaven in the book of Job considered by many to be the oldest book in the Bible. We see Satan not only troubling earth and its inhabitants; he’s also summonsed before God to give an account of his activities! The Scripture teaches that Satan is the accuser of the brethren and he continues as such, even as I write this. However, a future time will come as described in Revelation 12:7 when Satan and the fallen angels lose a heavenly battle with Michael and the holy angels. This battle hasn’t happened yet because Satan and the fallen angels have not been cast down to the earth, never to frequent heaven again (Revelation 12:6-8). Satan is still the accuser of the brethren. Therefore, he still has access to heaven where his accusations of the brethren take place.
As an aside, various philosophies and some religions teach seven heavens. However, the Bible teaches three heavens; the atmosphere around the earth, space and all contained in it, and the third is the very presence of God called Heaven or the third Heaven as Paul mentioned in his writings.
Daniel 2:43
Dan 2:43 And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay.
Theme expansion:
I thought we were all the seed of men here on earth. This phrase more than implies that there will be others---not of the seed of men, mingling with humanity right before Jesus physically returns to earth. Numerous prophetic teachings and commentaries place Daniel 2:43 at the time of the Tribulation prior to the Day of the Lord. These verses are believed and widely accepted in the Church as fundamental to understanding a literal eschatological framework.
This obscure phrase they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men is startling to me. Something outside of the human race, prior to the Day of the Lord, will mingle or mix themselves with humanity. The Aramaic word AR-AB literally means to mix or join together. We understand then that the they will join together with the seed of men. Again, the word seed (ZER-AH in Aramaic) means seed or offspring. The literal meaning and implication is horrific---especially in light of genetic manipulation and perceived extraterrestrial visitations.
I’ve read a number of commentaries that discuss this section of Daniel 2 and most side step the literal and very serious implications of the text. In addition, most of the modern Bibles delete this phrase! However, the Hebrew Massoretic Text does contain this phrase as faithfully penned by Daniel. Jesus also affirmed Daniel’s prophecies and prophetic ministry by referencing the book of Daniel during His Olivet Discourse found in Matthew 24.
I take the position these words in Daniel 2:43 stand on their literal and obvious meaning. I humbly disagree with those who link this reference to political alliances being formed in the last days due to the intermarrying of powerful families and kingdoms so the future ten-toe kingdoms can manifest. I do concede a certain amount of intermarrying may occur in preparation for this event, but I think that interpretation misses the clear teaching that others from outside of mankind are also involved in this effort. Humans intermarrying to build earthly kingdoms misses the point altogether! Humans are humans and by definition their offspring will always be humans---the seed of men.
One final thought on Daniel 2. Notice Nebuchadnezzar’s dream is about the kingdoms of this world in all of their splendor and glory, as observed by a man. However, in Daniel 7, God gives us His perspective of these same kingdoms, and He describes them as horrible beasts---the imagery is repulsive and frightening. What does God call the Antichrist in Revelation 13? The Beast. The false prophet is also portrayed as a beast. Moreover, I believe the Bible proclaims the beings described in Revelation 9: 7-11, 16-19, to be supernatural creatures---beasts if you will---from God’s perspective.
That said who are the they of Daniel 2:43? I believe the they represents a literal and, most likely, a physical manifestation of a satanic attack upon the earth before Jesus comes back for His Church. Demonic activity has been with us for some time now as evidenced by the Scriptures, as well as, documented accounts of spiritual warfare observed by the Church today. Therefore, I believe the fallen angels perhaps are the they who physically manifest themselves to an unsuspecting and gullible world before Jesus physically returns to earth.
We know this is the time of the end discussed in the Olivet Discourse by Jesus. The stone cut out without hands represents Jesus’ earthly kingdom, coming to earth, crushing the kingdoms of this world. Here again, the ten toes of iron and clay are the ‘last’ kingdom before the stone crushes the toes, and ultimately the world system. Therefore, this is carefully placed at the time when Jesus returns!
Daniel 11:38-39
But in his estate shall he honour the God of forces: and a god whom his fathers knew not shall he honour with gold, and silver, and with precious stones, and pleasant things. Thus shall he do in the most strong holds with a strange (Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance primary definition for strange: foreign, “alien”, foreignness, that which is foreign) god, whom he shall acknowledge and increase with glory: and he shall cause them to rule over many, and shall divide the land for gain.
Theme expansion:
Notice the Beast, also known as the Antichrist, is worshiping a strange or ‘alien’ god. I wonder: is this them possibly the same as the them in Daniel 2:43? It’s more than bizarre to switch strange god with alien god---it brings this down to where we live today---a fascination with extraterrestrial life, commonly called aliens.
To me, the implications of extraterrestrial life portrayed through Hollywood’s cameras will wreak havoc among a large number of those who profess a faith in God when these future things occur. I hope those who study this see this issue for what it is, a strong delusion, a battle for man’s mind and soul. Many will experience the destruction of their faith over these future visitations from space. However, I also believe a future alien disclosure will most likely topple the world’s religions, forcing a realignment of Godless beliefs, perhaps joining the Antichrist in worshipping the god of forces---the strange god which will ultimately lead to worshipping the Antichrist.
Joel 2:1-11
Joe 2:1-11 Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the LORD cometh, for it is nigh at hand; A day of darkness and of gloominess, a day of clouds and of thick darkness, as the morning spread upon the mountains: a great people and a strong; there hath not been ever the like, neither shall be any more after it, even to the years of many generations. A fire devoureth before them; and behind them a flame burneth: the land is as the garden of Eden before them, and behind them a desolate wilderness; yea, and nothing shall escape them. The appearance of them is as the appearance of horses; and as horsemen, so shall they run. Like the noise of chariots on the tops of mountains shall they leap, like the noise of a flame of fire that devoureth the stubble, as a strong people set in battle array. Before their face the people shall be much pained: all faces shall gather blackness. They shall run like mighty men; they shall climb the wall like men of war; and they shall march every one on his ways, and they shall not break their ranks: Neither shall one thrust another; they shall walk every one in his path: and when they fall upon the sword, they shall not be wounded. They shall run to and fro in the city; they shall run upon the wall, they shall climb up upon the houses; they shall enter in at the windows like a thief. The earth shall quake before them; the heavens shall tremble: the sun and the moon shall be dark, and the stars shall withdraw their shining: And the LORD shall utter his voice before his army: for his camp is very great: for he is strong that executeth his word: for the day of the LORD is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?
Theme expansion:
Could this be the same group as the Isaiah 13 passage---‘my mighty ones’? The world appears to be in tact before them---it’s even compared to the garden of Eden, and yet upon this army’s passing the earth is left desolate and destroyed as by fire. Similar verses can be found in Revelation 9, armies with fire and supernatural characteristics.
Matthew 24:15-21
Mat 24:15-21 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes. And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day: For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
Matthew 24:37
But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
Theme expansion:
My point is the flood of Noah’s day was a severe judgment. Here, Jesus warns that the world has not experienced tribulation like what’s coming in the future---even greater than the flood! Remember, only eight people survived the flood. Also, the giants in Genesis 6---they were on the earth when the flood came---and also after that, the Scriptures teach. Moreover, Jesus says the earth will be in a similar state when He comes back: like in the days of Noah. No, the world isn’t getting better---things are getting worse. Could the reference by Jesus to Noah also imply giants? I wonder….
Luke 21:21-27
Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people. And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled. And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
Theme expansion:
What things are coming on the earth? Clearly, things are coming from out there in space to the earth. Could it be so-called UFO’s with fallen angels inside disguised as aliens? See Revelation 12. The Scripture also teaches us that astronomical disturbances will take place in the future; asteroids and meteors, the sun will flare and then lose its brightness, and the stars will fall from the heavens. Some speculate these signs point to a coming magnetic pole shift, which could explain how these events would appear to those on earth observing it.
Ephesians 6:10-13
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Theme expansion:
Notice a direct reference to high places. Strong’s definition of high places: 1) existing in heaven 1a) things that take place in heaven 1b) the heavenly regions 1b) heaven itself, the abode of God and angels 1b2) the lower heavens, of the stars 1b3) the heavens, of the clouds 1c) the heavenly temple or sanctuary 2) of heavenly origin or nature)---like space---where Satan and the fallen angels will ultimately be expelled from in the future. One of Satan’s many titles is the prince of the power of the air!
Revelation 12:6-12
And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days. And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.
Theme expansion:
I find this passage in Revelation 12 intriguing. Note the text clearly defines Satan’s army as angels (not demons or evil spirits, although we understand from Scripture they are clearly part of the enemies’ army). The Greek word, anglos is different from daimonions (plural for devils/demons). Why does the text not say that Satan and his fallen angels and his demons are all cast down to the earth? Also, let’s not forget Jude 6-7 and 2nd Peter 2:4 refer to angels who left their first estate and are reserved in chains of darkness, awaiting judgment. Who are these angels and what did they do to take them out of the game, so to speak? That’s perhaps another topic and another study.
“And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day. Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.” Jude 1:6-7
There are two instances of the Greek word OIKETERION (house or habitation) in the New Testament: Jude 1:6 and 2 Corinthians 5:2. This word is used to describe the angels found in Jude 1:6 who leave their first estate, their original habitation---heaven. Others argue these angels perhaps transformed themselves into permanent fleshly bodies, eternally forsaking their supernatural bodies, taking on fleshly bodies so they could pursue ‘strange flesh’. Contrast that with 2 Corinthians 5:2 which states, “For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:” This verse speaks of the flesh-robed Christian longing for the day when he is clothed with a heavenly body, a supernatural resurrection body necessary for heaven. Perhaps this is subtle at best, but it appears to me that two extremes are contrasted in the context of OIKETERION’s usage in these two passages.
Bottom line, Satan and the fallen angels will be cast down to earth (future tense) expelled forever from heaven (See Revelation 12)! At that future time, fallen angels and demonic activity will work together in an intensified show of force under Satan’s direction prior to Jesus returning to earth. Our understanding of demonic activity is it occurred prior to Calvary, and it continues today. Typically invisible and manifested through humans who become ‘possessed’ by demons, as observed in the Gospel accounts, this satanic method provides a direct and invisible mechanism for attack against mankind and more importantly, mankind’s mind and soul. Evil hierarchies exist as outlined in Ephesians 6:12 that provide organization and direction to this assault.
There’s no doubt that demonic activity is operational on earth today. According to the Gospels, it was rampant at the time of Jesus first coming, and we by faith understand it will be elevated prior to His Second Coming as portrayed in Revelation. The Scriptures also point to ‘others’ who will join the battle, in addition to the demons currently fighting in the invisible trenches. These beings will ultimately lose their ability to frequent the heavens and will be banished to planet earth. The Bible teaches that Satan and the fallen angels lose this future battle fighting against Michael and the holy angels and perhaps the fallen angels “coming down to you” will be visible with a physical eye, unlike the invisible demonic activity.
“And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:”
Second Thessalonians 2:11
As you can see, these verses do fit within a framework of something or someone coming to earth near the time of Jesus literal and physical return. Lots of questions -- many thoughts. Unfortunately, this message is seldom proclaimed. As time continues, the paranormal will increase, resulting in more UFO sightings, alien abductions, biological experimentation commonly called ‘stem cell’ research and cloning, sophisticated weaponry, along with other questionable practices that appear in today’s headlines with frequent regularity. God’s Word is clear, may we all have grace to believe what it says. I’ve attempted to highlight key passages---admittedly more than a meager few that point to a Biblical understanding that they are also coming!
In Him,
Eye
17 Comments:
Eye,
Before I forget, you have a typo in your closing tag for italics which is located just under Antichrist will Counterfeit Prophecy. Here it is copied and pasted:
The Second Coming of Christ>/i>
Hopefully once you correct the greater-than sign to a less-than sign it will correct everything thereafter.
Now onto the content of your post. :-)
You've obviously put a lot of thought into this deep subject. I applaud your efforts. What we do know is that something terrible is coming upon the earth and I hope that if I'm alive when this is all about to happen that Jesus will come to get His church BEFORE all of it comes to pass.
I believe we are very near the end times, but I'm not so sure that any of this will happen in our lifetime. Though you never know, things can happen in the twinkling of an eye since we don't know what all is going on in the heavenlies and we don't know the exact timing of God's plan, so it very well COULD happen in our lifetime. Who would have thought that we would wake up one day and see Israel at war with Hezbollah? I'm ashamed to say that I haven't kept up with it all. And I'm assuming that there has been a cease fire? Either that, or the John Mark Karr hoax in the Jon Benet Ramsey case was more important to the media.
I have my own thoughts on this subject, but I'd be very interested in Dr. Davy's take on this issue. And Leo's as well. And anyone else who cares to state their opinion.
I appreciate your devoted work on this subject.
By Dawn, at September 01, 2006 4:11 AM
Dawn,
Thank you very much for the technical help! It was late and my eyes were tired.
I would love to hear from the readers on this as well! The more the merrier.
I do believe we will be taken from the earth prior to these things happening via the rapture. One thing I've learned over the years is to not be dogmatic about certain positions -- say the KJV only, pre-trib, the gifts of the Spirit still in effect, etc. but rather let the Word proclaim its own position and hopefully I find myself in a state of personal conviction over its truth and I will stand for it in love.
Thanks again for your comments.
In Him,
Eye
By Eye, at September 01, 2006 7:31 AM
Hello Eye,
Nice study. Alot to consider. Now that today's sermon is out of the way I'll try to dig into it a little more. Just a few comments though... Some points of agreement stand out such as - I have always speculated that UFO's et.al were demonically generated. Counterfiet and deciet are Satan's strong suits so a false messianic type return would be right in line with his thinking as he aspires to the throne of the Most High.
Was your part of the country hit by Ernesto?
Blessings,
Leo
By Leo, at September 03, 2006 4:27 PM
Dear Leo,
Thank the Lord we were missed by Ernesto in North Georgia -- but we did get some much needed rain!
Thank you for your input and look forward to your good observations and questions!
In Him,
Eye
By Eye, at September 03, 2006 7:51 PM
Eye,
You are applying fantastic concepts like "paranormal," "UFO," and "alien" to the discussion of the end times. I think "much TV watching doth make thee mad."
The Bible expresses spiritual matters in common terms. They are spiritual matters, not outer space matters.
The eschatological portions of the Bible contain a lot of difficult descriptions. The path behind us is littered with preachers who have made foolish predictions that did not pan out (and yet the preachers refuse to admit failure and accept shame).
For my part, I refuse to try to try to turn the images of eschatology into absolute terms. No man knows exactly how things will pan out--not even the Son of Man Himself when He was on earth.
My policy with regard to eschatology is to be ready for whatever happens, and to try to make sure other people are also ready.
Dr Davy
By Anonymous, at September 05, 2006 10:48 AM
dr davy,
ok -- so let me know how you really feel! :-)
Come on and jump in -- the waters fine!
Let's take this one step at a time with your permission. I agree there are many grandiose playbooks that litter the eschatological landscape, but that said I do stand on the issue that we are commanded to Watch! and not be caught in sleep, obviously a metaphor for spiritual sleep.
Now, a couple of things for those who do not believe Jesus' return is imminent:
Israel is now once again a nation -- removed from mothballs so to speak.
Moreover, Jerusalem is now the capital of said nation.
The Bible clearly speaks of Jerusalem's troubles as evidenced by Matthew 24, Luke 21 and Mark 13 and Zechariah 12-14. I might also add these references are to a 'future' time, not historical AD 70.
The Bible proclaims Jesus will return physically in the future and the NT gives us two comings -- A) for His own in the clouds and B) to stop Armageddon as Revelation 19 and Matthew 24 -- where He brings His own with Him to earth.
Please understand, I write this with a smile -- frankly, I think much TV watching has made the world mad and very willing to accept future things that you and I understand to be demonically initiated, but nevertheless initiated because God allows it.
All that said:
Is Satan still the accuser of the brethern today?
The Scriptures teach there will come a day when he will not continue in that capacity. When will that be?
If Revelation was written to warn the pre - 70 AD Christians of coming persecustion, then Revelation 12:7-14 would have happened, no?
I would love your input on Daniel 2:43!
As an aside, most of the modern Bibles do not correctly translate -- but the KJB does...
In Him,
Eye
By Eye, at September 05, 2006 12:01 PM
dr davy and anyone else:
References to 'ufo's', 'paranormal', 'aliens', etc. are simply worldy references to things unexplained by human reasoning. Of course, as a believer I do hold to or have faith the Scriptures give light to those searching to understand these 'worldly' things in the context of the Lord's return -- really it is that simple.
It takes faith to believe most of the Bible. Have you seen a 12-14 foot giant? Me neither, but I believe they existed because the Word says so. There are many more similar examples...
With that, please show me where I've misunderstood the many Scripture references I've attempted to exegete if you are so inclined. After all, we are commanded to study to show ourselves approved -- not just in relation to our pet doctrines but with respect to the whole counsel of God.
In Him,
Eye
By Eye, at September 05, 2006 6:11 PM
dr davy said:
The Bible expresses spiritual matters in common terms. They are spiritual matters, not outer space matters.
Eye's response: dr davy, are you saying the Bible has nothing to do with the physical? Seems to me the book of Revelation and other futuristic passages have much to say about the reality of the world and its sorry fallen state and God's 'physical' judgment of the spiritual blindness that pervades it.
In Him,
Eye
By Eye, at September 05, 2006 8:39 PM
Eye,
I am not aiming my barbs at you personally, my brother. I am just stating my strong opinions regarding eschatological zealots.
I agree that we need to Watch! And I agree that Jesus could return at any time.
But here is the reason for my caution: The scribes, pharisees, and sadducees knew their Bibles frontwards and backwards. They interpreted the difficult eschatological passages. They knew exactly what the Messiah would be like when He came. Then they missed Him! They were wrong!
So all you who know exactly how and when Jesus will return, beware, lest you miss Him!
So I agree we need to watch, but apparently there's a right way and a wrong way to watch. The scribes watched the wrong way.
I think we need to watch with humility. I think we need to interpret eschatological passages with humility. I think we need to have great humility and caution any time we give any specific prediction about how things are going to take place in the end.
Any such prediction should be couched in phrases like "it seems to me" and "I think" and "but I could be wrong." Brother Eye, I respect you because you have done so.
The lack of humility is what has brought down the modern-day "prophets" who have embarassed Christianity with their predictions of the end.
Dr Davy
By Anonymous, at September 07, 2006 9:38 AM
Eye,
You asked for my interpretation of Dan 2:43.
The feet and toes are a kingdom that is destroyed by the Kingdom of God. Does the latter refer to the first advent or the second coming? If the first advent, then the kingdom of the feet and toes has already happened. It would refer to some aspect of Rome or Greece. You dismiss this possibility. You are probably right, and I agree with you, but we should not be over-confident in our interpretation.
Since the feet and toes are connected to the legs, and the legs are Rome, there must be some connection of the feet and toes to Rome. Since Dan 2 should be interpreted in the light of Dan 7, we know that these ten toes, like the ten horns, are ten kings.
The fact that iron and clay does not mix implies that these kings will form a confederacy but will not really be united. The fact that iron is strong but clay is brittle implies that some of the kings will be strong and some will be easily broken.
I believe this prophecy is saying that before the second coming there will be some kind of confederacy among approximately ten European nations. I think this is coming true.
I think your speculation about little green men being involved in this confederation is a red herring.
I believe the references to "mingling" and "seed" have to do with intermarrying sons and daughters and having children.
Ezra 9:2 uses some of the same Semitic vocabulary: "For they have taken of their daughters for themselves, and for their sons: so that the holy seed have mingled themselves with the people of those lands: yea, the hand of the princes and rulers hath been chief in this trespass."
In Dan 2:43 "they" refers to the nations. So the people of different nations will intermarry, but the nations will never really unite.
I think this might have to do with the European Union. I think this could be one more piece of the puzzle in place indicating that the return of the Lord Jesus is immanent. But I could be wrong.
So I would encourage all your readers to be ready. But I would also caution all your readers not to be discouraged if the second coming delays. "But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only."
Dr Davy
By Anonymous, at September 07, 2006 10:20 AM
dr davy,
Thank you for your responses to this very long and somewhat trying post! I appreciate you, Dawn, Leo and anyone else willing to delve in and take a look at these passages and compare them with Scripture. I totally agree with you that this subject must be tackled in love, humility and honesty. I for one, do not nor have I ever professed a 'clear' understanding of future things. However, I do confess I have a 'burning' desire to study and work hard with my God-given abilities and the Holy Spirit's leading to wrestle with these things.
That said, thank you for your review of Daniel 2:43. I agree the 'THEY' refers back to the kings, or the ten toes. There is something unusual about these ten kings and this is where I believe the Scriptures give us a heads up on something unique.
Some might argue these days were seen before -- in Noah's day, and furthermore Jesus tells us it will be like the days of Noah, again before He comes back! Some argue the fallen angels 'MINGLED' with the 'seed of men' back in Noah's day and they make the extrapolation that will occur again in relation to these Ten Toes.
Notice, I carefully position these remarks with 'some argue and some say' for I'm not sure yet what I think about all of this myself. But, I do think a simple reading of the plain English of Daniel 2:43 as stated in the KJB leads me to see the following:
1. There is a future 'THEY' associated with the last kingdom on earth before the Lord returns.
2. The THEY of Daniel 2:43 is referring to beings -- not their political affiliation or kingdoms -- how can I say that?
3. The THEY (Beings) mingle "THEM-SELVES", not their kingdoms, with the SEED of MEN.
4. As Acts 17:26a says, "And hath made of one blood ALL Nations of Men for to dwell on all the face of the earth..." The caps are mine and the point is God created one blood or the 'SEED of MEN' for the earth. The verse in Ezra 9:2 is a good reference to the same phrase "mingled themselves", but I encourage you and anyone else to look carefully at the context. It is clearly referring to people mingling with people -- or the seed of men and the simple fact they did cleave to one another through marriage and produce offspring verifies such.
Notice in Daniel 2:43-44 the clear statement is made in verse 43 that the THEY shall NOT CLEAVE or MIX one to another...
There was no problem with the mingling in Ezra 9 -- for it did occur and therefore the passage's recordation of the fact.
Again, as to Daniel 2:43 -- the reference is to a future time and the 'mingling' will not take in the realm of the seed of men.
Simple conclusions:
1. If this is the mingling of peoples of one blood, then why do they not cleave to each other? We have precedence in Ezra that that is the norm! Why not here? What is different? Could the THEY of Daniel 2:43 refer to Beings not of the seed of men?
2. The THEY attempts the MINGLING with the SEED OF MEN, but alas THEY fail. We (Humanity) are all the SEED of MEN -- so What or Who is the THEY?
3. Kingdoms are extension of Beings/People. The Prince of the kingdom of Persia (An Entity) withstood the heavenly messenger until Michael came and helped. My Point, Kingdoms don't mingle themselves, the people/entities in the kingdom do the mingling, fighting, withstanding, etc.!
So in my mind most if not all of the modern commentaries on this passage affirm political alliances/unions as you stated, however I respectfully disagree for I feel that is more akin to eisegesis of this text and the Being from outside the seed of men trying to mingle with the seed of men is more in line with a proper exegesis of said text.
Thoughts??
I promise to draw this post to a close and move to a new topic soon -- so get your thoughts in here as soon as possible. ;-)
In Him,
Eye
By Eye, at September 07, 2006 7:08 PM
Eye,
I just lost a post so I'll try to recreate it. Grrr!
This stuff is over my head. But I don't see anywhere in the bible that teaches that fallen angels mingled with the seed of men in the sense that they engaged in intercourse and procreated.
What I see as the "mingling" of fallen angels and mankind is that of demon opression or possession. Or that of the devil putting thoughts into peoples' minds.
The people who say they've been abducted or contacted by aliens from other planets truly BELIEVE that that is what has happened to them. Some of these people appear to be educated and very credible. I believe their encounters are some sort of demonic activity.
I'm sorry that I cannot add more to the discussion.
Do you think that there are people walking around today that are part demon and part human?
By Dawn, at September 08, 2006 12:26 PM
Dawn,
You ask some great questions and you always add value to any discussion as evidenced by your many well thought out and well stated posts!
I agree with you that there are many people who believe they have been 'abducted' by aliens. In fact the numbers are in the millions. Many of these people are highly educated, gainfully employed, family people, etc. However in my research on this, I discovered that many of these people -- if interviewed by Christian researchers, were observed to have demonic influences in their lives -- ouija boards, taro cards, seances, witchcraft, etc. I agree that this entire 'paranormal' eexperience is of the enemy. I also believe that none of these things are done without God's permission. I do believe these things are stage-props for a higher level of acceptance for the endtimes Anti-christ.
As to angels 'mingling' with mankind -- there are those theologians who postulate that Genesis 6:4 clearly states that very thing. The word angels is the phrase bene elohim in the Hebrew which is also used and translated as the 'sons of God' in Job 1 and other places in the OT. Something happened in the past as recorded in 2 Peter and Jude that caused God to put certain fallen angels in chains of darkness reserved for the day of judgment. Are all fallen angels in this state? No, because oiketereon means:
1) a dwelling place, habitation
a) of the body as a dwelling place for the spirit
Apparently some angels did more that just leave the presence of God (Heaven) when they followed Lucifer -- one implication could be they left their heavenly body!!!
We know that one third of the angels fell with Lucifer when they decided to abandon God and follow Lucifer. Then, would not all of these fallen angels be bound in chains of darkness and 'delivered' to tartaroo? Here is what Strong's says regarding this place:
1) the name of the subterranean region, doleful and dark, regarded by the ancient Greeks as the abode of the wicked dead, where they suffer punishment for their evil deeds; it answers to Gehenna of the Jews
2) to thrust down to Tartarus, to hold captive in Tartarus
This is the only time this Greek word is used in the NT and it is in 2 Peter. This is not the same place as:
Mat 25:41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:
Tartarus is not the same place as the 'lake of fire' and that is where certain angels are reserved in these chains of darkness until the judgment when they will be then thrown into the lake of fire.
Why?
What did this subset of angels do?
Obviously a majority of the fallen angels are available in Revelation 12:7-14 to fight against Michael and his angels and therefore they aren't reserved in these chains of darkness in my humble opinion.
With regard to demon possession -- there is little mention of it until Jesus first coming. I also believe there will be a resurgence of this before His second coming. Your point is well made and taken.
As to your question are there hybrids walking around today?
I don't know! I'm not sure I believe that but I will say with technology where it is today and especially genetic experimentation -- there may be things going on in the name of scientific experimentation that could be termed hybrid. Frankly speaking the whole cloning thing scares me and if it is ever sanctioned and done, will that flesh container have a soul and spirit? It was not conceived in the normal way -- I don't know, these things give me a headache if I ponder them to long...
I will end with this, I don't believe the 'unequally yoking' teaching of a Godly lineage with the daughters of men would in and of itself produce beings that stand over 12 feet tall, both before and after the flood. Perhaps one answer is the 'mark' of Cain and another could be the fallen angels...
IF we can entertain unfallen (holy) angels and never know it, why can't the fallen ones also transform themselves into beings that mimic humanity with a realism that defies detection?
Perhaps that's what Daniel 2:43 implies -- clay = humanity; iron = angelic??
These are my thoughts and they are not worth a new denomination over! ;-)
In Him,
Eye
By Eye, at September 08, 2006 8:53 PM
Eye,
I always interpreted Daniel 2:43 as referring to the Roman Empire. Now I wonder whether or not it simply refers to the inferiority of subsequent kingdoms to Nebuchadnezzar. All of which will be destroyed by the kingdom of God in the days to come. The former may be true but the latter seems have good general truth which would have encouraged Daniel and certainly all who read the prophecy.
The comingling of angels and humans e.g., Genesis 6 is interesting but I wonder if the spiritual nature of Angels precludes them from any true physical interactions with humans. The Lord does imply in Matthew 22:30 that angels do not marry which I understand as an euphemism for not having sexual relations.
Blessings,
Leo
By Leo, at September 12, 2006 6:55 AM
Leo,
Thank you for your post. I guess I'm still stuck on the literal understanding of the phrase, 'they shall mingle THEMSELVES with the seed of men...'
Who is the they?
Beings...
Humans...
Political empires...
I tend to take this verse literally in that the THEY are referred to as THEMSELVES or (Humans or Beings but not nations for we know nations can't mingle themselves)...
These THEY mingle THEMSELVES with humans (Seed of man) so I'm logically left to ponder these THEY as Beings.
Now then, what Beings are these?
I don't believe in aliens but I do understand from the Bible there are Beings not of this world in the heavens and they are the angels...
In Him,
Eye
By Eye, at September 12, 2006 8:35 PM
Eye,
I interpret "they" and "themselves" as the nation- Roman, revived Roman or otherwise, and "seed of men" as the subjugated ones. I am not strong on Roman history but did they not try to create a united empire by "mixing" with the conquered like the apostle Paul's parents to create one united people? So Iron may be the empire,per se, and the clay their union with conquered which never quite worked (iron does not mix with clay) I lean to a human - human interpretation at this point.
Blessings,
Leo
By Leo, at September 13, 2006 6:42 AM
Eye was re-reading Revelation 9 for the umpteenth time again. And, dr davy, believe it or not I was reading the -- hold onto your hats -- the NIV! I know, but it is fairly accurate and very descriptive of the Greek. That said, are not these literal beings who come to earth to wreak judgment at the direction of God?
Is this not a literal and future thing?
Do we believe this has already happened as the preterist preaches or do we deep in our spirits believe this is still a future thing and has not happened as of yet?
Or, do we want to explain away the supernatural description of these 'beings' clearly described in the text and overlay today's fighting technology into the verses to make ourselves feel better and therefore try and explain away the strangeness of it by understanding this to be 'helicopters' or some other thing instead of the very thing God tells us -- which requires faith to believe?
In Him,
Eye
By Eye, at September 17, 2006 2:26 PM
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