In Session Eight, we discussed with lightning speed a number of threats to the nation of Israel and, therefore, the Messiah, recorded in Scripture and in inter-testament history (Antioch us Epiphanies), Reread Revelation 12:13 and write the verse here:
Revelation 12:13 (New International Version, ©2011)
13 When the dragon saw that he had been hurled to the earth, he pursued the woman who had given birth to the male child.
Think back on recorded history even within the last century. Name at least one way the dragon has continued to pursue the woman (the nation of Israel) even after the birth of Child?
My thoughts: I don't strong sense of history here so I am little embarrassed of this fact! I look to the news today and see the devil at work all over the nation of Israel. I would love to know what you think - please leave a comment and let me know!
Just think how the dragon still despises the Jews and still tries to overtake and threaten Israel. Even though Israel as a nation has not yet corporately acclaimed and received Jesus as her Messiah, God still has a sovereign plan in motion. Make no mistake. His eye is upon any nation or people who persecutes or tries to destroy her. The Jews have endured serious repercussions for unbelief but God's covenant with them will also endure. As you begin wrapping up this week's assignments, look once again at Romans 11:25-27. What is the bottom line?
Romans 11:25-27 (New International Version, ©2011)
All Israel Will Be Saved
25 I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, 26 and in this way[a] all Israel will be saved. As it is written:
“The deliverer will come from Zion;
he will turn godlessness away from Jacob.
27 And this is[b] my covenant with them
when I take away their sins.”[c]
My thoughts: In this scripture we learn a lot - but I want to make sure I state the obvious... he starts my saying "Mystery"....so we many never know exactly what he has planned. In my eyes, Israel has experienced a hardening of their hearts and until Christ reveals himself to them they cannot be saved. Once he comes and they experience HIM, he fulfills HIS covenant with Him, then he will take away their sins. What do you think?
Do you find it mind boggling? You're in good company. So did the Apostle Paul. As today's benediction, read his doxology in Romans 11:33-36 ALOUD!
Romans 11:33-36 (New International Version, ©2011)
Doxology
33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and[a] knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
34 “Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?”[b]
35 “Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay them?”[c]
36 For from him and through him and for him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen.
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