Remembering that Sha’ul was commissioned as the apostle to the Gentiles, how are we to then understand what part of the Law is to be taught to non-Jews (Gentiles)? Are they to “walk orderly, keeping the Law” too? The answer is given in this same conversation.

This prophecy takes a top down view of the distress that will come upon the earth. Do we presently see the powers of the heavens shaking, and are people fearing things coming upon the world? The answer is Yes.

Whenever I see these expressions in Scripture I feel motivated to understand what God is saying, but it also helps me to understand why others don’t seem to understand.  God has blocked some from understanding because they are not motivated toward God. 

Simply said it is “For by God’s grace your sins are forgiven and you are saved by the same faith that Abraham had, not by the works of the law, such as the commandment of circumcision.”

For us who know the Lord and have been attentive to what He has explained, the Great Tribulation will be the Word of God happening in the world. When we see the bad news taking shape, we can be assured that we still have the good news following.

I have seen the Messiah, just as the Father saw Him from the mercy seat in the Holy of Holies looking out above the altar. The Messiah was elevated on the cross on the Mount of Olives and was sanctified by the altar in the temple to be the “Lamb of God” sacrifice in accordance with the requirements of the Passover sacrifice.

This is an intriguing mystery in Scripture. In fact, the sages of Israel do not disagree with Stephen on his count, yet it is known as one of the hidden mysteries of the Torah.

Why does the prophecy define these enemies of God in this fashion? Is this God’s version of “name calling” of His enemies or is there more to this?

We should be balanced in our conclusions and never take the position that we have come to a final conclusion. Until the prophecies become history, we are still processing our understanding.

Despite the momentary success of Mr. Trump’s election, I offer great caution for your enthusiasm. The country is split down the middle. God’s judgment is on our land and many other nations. A house divided cannot stand. We are divided. We will not stand.