scripture pic

scripture pic

Monday, May 27, 2013

Asteroid 1998 QE2, Libra, Centaurus, Hydra, & Ophiuchus


Asteroids and comets have a uniqueness to them. Unlike planets that circle the sun around the ecliptic, asteroids and comets can fly by in any direction.  The path they move is not the same as the ecliptic, and they usually fly through the decans of constellations on their approach towards earth.   Asteroid 1998 QE2 will come close to earth this week but not close enough to be seen with the naked eye. We can see its path on the JPL site.

Since God gave us the stories of the constellations we can read a different story for each asteroid or comet. This asteroid starts coming close to earth while in the constellation of Centaurus.  When at its closest, 1998 QE2 will be in the constellation of Libra.  Let’s look at what these constellations mean. On 5/28/13 asteroid 1998 QE2 will be in Centaurus. EW Bullinger tells us about Centaurus in Witness of the Stars.

CENTAURUS (The Centaur). The Despised Sin-offering.
It is the figure of a being with two natures. Jamieson, in his Celestial Atlas, 1822, says, "On the authority of the most accomplished Orientalist of our own times, the Arabic and Chaldaic name of this constellation is HD." Now this Hebrew word Bezeh (and the Arabic A I Beze) means the despised. It is the very word used of this Divine sufferer in Isa. liii. 3, " He is DESPISED (i"!p3) and rejected of men."
The constellation contains thirty-five stars. Two of the 1st magnitude, one of the 2nd, six of the 3rd, nine of the 4th, etc., which, together with the four bright stars in the Cross make a brilliant show in southern latitudes.
The brightest star, a (in the horses fore-foot), has come down to us with the ancient name of Toliman, which means the heretofore and hereafter, marking Him as the one "which is, and which was, and which is to come the Almighty" (Rev. i. 8). Sir John Herschell observed this star to be growing rapidly brighter. It may be, therefore, one of the changeable stars, and its name may be taken as an indication of the fact that it was known to the ancients.
Another name for the constellation was in Hebrew, Asmeath, which means a sin-offering (as in Isa. liii. 10).
The Greek name was C/iciron, which means the pierced, or who pierces. In the Greek fables Cheiron was renowned for his skill in hunting, medicine, music, athletics, and prophecy. All the most distinguished heroes of Greece are described as his pupils. He was supposed to be immortal, but he voluntarily agreed to die; and, wounded by a poisoned arrow (not intended for him) while in conflict with a wild boar, he transferred his immortality to Prometheus; whereupon he was placed amongst the stars.
We can easily see how this fable is the ignorant perversion of the primitive Revelation. The true tradition can be seen dimly through it, and we can discern Him of whom it spoke, the all-wise, all- powerful Teacher and Prophet, who "went about doing good," yet " despised and rejected of men," laying down His life that others might live.
It is one of the lowest of the constellations, i.e. the farthest south from the northern centre. It is situated immediately over the Cross, which bespeaks His own death; He is seen in the act of destroying the enemy.
Thus these star-pictures tell us that it would be as a child that the Promised Seed should come forth and grow and wax strong in spirit and be filled with wisdom (Luke ii. 40) ; and that as a man having two natures He should suffer and die. Then the third and last section in this first chapter of this First Book goes on to tell of His second coming in glory.

Joseph Seiss gives us a little more insight to Centaurus in The Gospel in the Stars.

The Double Nature.
It is part of the faith, and a very vital part, that the Seed of the woman is the true and only-begotten Son of God, true God and true man in one and the same person. " For the right faith is, that we believe and confess that our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is God and man ; God, of the substance of the Father, begotten before the worlds, and man, of the substance of His mother, born in the world : perfect God and perfect man." It is a great mystery, but so the Scriptures teach, and so the whole orthodox Church believes. In other words, we teach and hold that Christ, our Saviour, possessed a double nature, "not by conversion of the Godhead into flesh, but by taking the manhood into God," in the unity of one Person, who accordingly is Immanuel, God with us, the Christ, who suffered for our salvation. And all this is signified in the constellation of Centaurus.
Very curious are the pagan myths concerning the centaurs. Fable represents them as the great bull-killers. They are said to have been heaven-begotten, born of the clouds, sons of God, but hated and abhorred by both gods and men, combated, driven to the mountains, and finally exterminated. Their form in the most ancient art is a composite of man and horse — man from the head down to the front feet, and the rest horse. There was no beauty or comeliness, that any should desire them. Some classical scholars have tried to account for the grotesque conception by imagining a race of Thessalian mountaineers who rode on horses, whom the neighboring tribes viewed with horror, supposing each horse and his rider to be one being. The conceit is without the slightest foundation in fact. The ancient Egyptians had the figure of the centaur lone before the times of the Greeks.
The most noted of the centaurs of classic fable is Cheiron. To him are ascribed great wisdom and righteousness. "He was renowned for his skill in hunting, medicine, music, gymnastics, and the art of prophecy. All the most distinguished heroes in Grecian story are, like Achilles, described as his pupils in these arts." He was the friend of the Argonauts on their voyage, and the friend of Hercules, though he died from one of the poisoned arrows of this divine hero whilst engaged in a struggle with the Erymanthean boar. He was immortal, but he voluntarily aoreed to die, and transferred his immortality to Prometheus ; whereupon the great God took him up and placed him among the stars.

It is easy to see how this whole idea of the centaurs, particularly of Cheiron, connects with the primeval astronomy and related traditions. Strikingly also does it set forth the nature and earthly career of the divine Seed of the woman, as narrated in the Scriptures. Christ had two natures in one person ; and such was the figure of the centaur. Christ was a wise, just, good, and powerful Healer, Instructor, and Prophet; and such is the character everywhere ascribed to the chief centaur. Christ came to destroy the works of the Devil, and spent His energies in relieving men's ills, combating the powers of evil, teaching the ways of truth and righteousness, and driving away afflictions, as the centaurs hunted and destroyed the wild bulls and the wild boars, and as Cheiron helped and taught the Grecian heroes, minstrels, and sages. Nevertheless, He was despised and rejected of men, hated, persecuted, and deemed unfit to live, just as fabled of the centaurs. Cheiron was fatally wounded whilst engaged in his good work — wounded by a poisoned arrow from heaven not intended for him. And, though immortal in himself, he chose to die from that wound, that another might live. And so it was with Christ in His conflict with the Destroyer. And a vivid picture of the same appears in the figure of this constellation, which is also one of the very lowest and farthest down of all the signs belonging to the ancient astronomy.
Here is a double-natured beino-, to men repulsive and hateful, yet really great, powerful, and beneficent, pushing with his lance at the heart of some victim, and moving the while right over the constellation of the Cross.
The name of this Decan in Arabic and Hebrew means the despised. The brightest star in it the Greeks called Cheiron, a word which has a Hebrew root signifying" the pierced; also Pho/as, likewise from a Hebrew root signifying the making of prayer, the mediation. Sir John Herschel has observed that this star is growing brighter, and so belongs to the class of changeable stars. Ulu°di Beigh gives its name as Tollman, which means the heretofore and the hereafter — brighter once, and to be brighter again, as the divine glory of Christ was much hidden during His earthly life, in which He made himself of no reputation, even lower than the angels, for the suffering of death, but was again glorified with the glory which He had with the Father before the world was. Thus, this sign, and the traditions and names connected with it, strikingly accord with the facts of Christ's earthly life and fate, and set forth some of the highest mysteries of His Person, character, and mediatorial work.
http://archive.org/stream/gospelinstarsorp00seis/gospelinstarsorp00seis_djvu.txt

Jesus was despised and pierced for us.  1998 QE2 reminds us of what Jesus endured for you and I.  It also reminds us that Jesus was, and is, and is to come.  This is the heavenly “TV show” God is giving us, today.  From  5/29/13-5/30/13 19998 QE2 moves into Hydra, one of the longest constellations in our sky.  EW Bullinger teaches us that hydra will be destroyed.
 
HYDRA (The Serpent). The Old Serpent Destroyed. 
The time has at length come for the fulfilment of the many prophecies pictured in the heavens: and in its three final constellations we see the consummation of them all in the complete destruction of the Old Serpent, and all his seed, and all his works. 
It is the special work of the Messiah, as "the Lion of the tribe of Judah," to trample it under foot. 
It is pictured as the female serpent (Hydra), the mother and author of all evil. Hydra has the significant meaning, he is abhorred! 
It is an immense constellation extending for above 100 degrees from east to west, beneath the Virgin, the Lion, and the Crab. It is composed of 60 stars ; one of the 2nd magnitude, three of the 3rd, twelve of the 4th, etc. 
The brightest star, a (in the heart of the Serpent), is sometimes called by the moderns Cor Hydra on that account. Its ancient name is Al Phard (Arabic), which means the separated, put away. An other is called Al Drian, the abhorred. Another star is named Minchar al Sugia, the piercing of the deceiver. 

The Bible tells us that Jesus will destroy the serpent and all his seed.  The works of the deceiver will be eliminated by the one with the double nature, the one who was, and is, and is to come. On 5/31/13-6/2/13 when 1998 QE2 is closest to earth, it will be passing through the constellation of Libra.  Libra is a picture of scales, symbolizing the price required for our freedom was deficient until Jesus could lay his live down as payment for us. Again EW Bullinger, in Witness of the Stars, tells us about this constellation.
 
THE SIGN LIBRA. The Redeemer s Atoning Work; or The Price deficient balanced by the Price which covers. 
IN the first chapter of this book we saw that this Coming Seed of the woman was, among other things, to give up His life for others. 
The second chapter is going to define and develope the manner and object of this death. 
The name of the Sign, together with its three constellations and the names of the stars composing them, give the complete picture of this Redemption. 
The Sign contains 51 stars, two of which are of the 2nd magnitude, one of the 3rd, eight of the 4th, etc. 
The Hebrew name is Mozanaim, the Scales, weighing. Its name in Arabic is A I Zubena, purchase, or redemption. In Coptic, it is Lambadia, station of propitiation (from Lam, graciousness, and badia, branch}. The name by which it has come down to us is the Latin, Libra, which means weighing, as used in the Vulgate (Isa. xl. 12). 
Libra contains three bright stars whose names supply us with the whole matter. The brightest, a (in the lower scale), is named Zuben al Genubi, which means the purchase, or price which is deficient. This points to the fact that man has been utterly ruined. He is "weighed in the balances and found wanting." 
" None of them can by any means redeem his brother, Nor give to God a ransom for him ; For the redemption of their soul is costly, And must be let alone for ever/ (Ps. xlix. 7, R.V.) 
"Surely men of low degree are vanity (Heb. a IreatK], And men of high degree are a lie ; In the balances they go up; They are altogether lighter than vanity " (Heb. a breath}. (Ps. Ixii. 9, R.V.) 
This is the verdict pronounced and recorded by this star Zuben al Genubi. 
Is there then no hope? Is there no one who can pay the price? 
Yes ; there is " the Seed of the woman." He is not merely coming as a child, but He is coming as an atoning sacrifice. 
He is coming for the purpose of Redemption ! He can pay the price which covers ! Hence in the upper scale we have another bright star with this very name Zuben al Chemali THE PRICE WHICH COVERS! Praised be God ! "They sang a new song, saying, Thou art worthy ... for Thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood." (Rev. v. g.) This is the testimony of $, the second brightest star ! It has another name, al Gubi, heaped up, or high, telling of the infinite value of this redemption price. But there is a third star, y, below, towards Centaurus and the Victim slain, telling, by that and by its name, of the conflict by which that redemption would be accomplished. It is called Zuben Akrabi or Zuben al Akrab, which means the price of the conflict ! 
There is, however, some reason to suppose that Libra is a very ancient Egyptian corruption, bringing in human merit instead of Divine righteousness ; " the way of Cain " instead of the way of God. In the more ancient Akkadian the months were called after the names of the signs,* and the sign of the seventh month is 1 the sign that we now call Libra. The Akkadian name for it was Tulku. Tul means mound (like dhul and duty, and ku means sacred; hence, Tulku means the sacred mound, or the holy altar, f 
Not only is the name and its meaning different, but the teaching is infinitely greater and more important, if we may believe that the original picture of this sign was not a pair of scales, but the representation of a holy altar. This would agree still better with the three constellations which follow. 
The names of the stars would also be more appropriate, for it is the Sacrifice of Christ which they foreshadowed, and here it was that the price which covered was paid, and outweighed the price which was deficient. What that price was to be, and how it was to be paid, and what was to be the result in the Person of the Redeemer, is set forth in detail in the three sections of this chapter by the constellations of The Cross endured, The Victim slain, and The Crown bestowed. 
http://archive.org/stream/witnessofthestar00bulluoft/witnessofthestar00bulluoft_djvu.txt
 
This constellation of Libra is a great story of our hope in Christ.  On 6/3/13 1998 QE2 moves through Ophiuchus, the one who is stepping on the scorpion and holding back the serpent from stealing the crown.  
 
SERPENS AND OPHIUCHUS. The Struggle with the Enemy. 
Here, Serpens, the serpent, is seen struggling vainly in the powerful grasp of the man who is named 0-phi-u-chus. In Latin he is called Serpentarius. 
* Luke xxii. 53 : comp. Col. i. 13 and Eph. vi. 12. 
He is at one and the same moment shown to be seizing the serpent with his two hands, and treading on the very heart of the scorpion, marked by the deep red star Antares (wounding). 
Just as we read the first constellation of the woman and child Coma, as expounding the first sign VIRGO, so we have to read this first constellation as expounding the second sign LIBRA. Hence, we have here a further picture, showing the object of this conflict on the part of the scorpion. 
In Scorpio we see merely the effort to wound Ophiuchus in the heel ; but here we see the effort of the serpent to seize THE CROWN, which is situated immediately over the serpent s head, and to which he is looking up and reaching forth. 
The contest is for Dominion ! It was the Devil, in the form of a serpent, that robbed the first man of his crown; but in vain he struggled to wrest it from the sure possession of the Second Man. Not only does he fail in the attempt, but is himself utterly defeated and trodden under foot. 
There are no less than 134 stars in these two constellations. Two are of the 2nd magnitude, four teen of the 3rd, thirteen of the 4th, etc. 
The brightest star in the Serpent, a (in the neck), is named Unuk, which means encompassing. Another Hebrew name is Alyah, the accursed. From this is Al Hay (Arabic), the reptile. The next brightest star is (in the jaw), named, in Arabic, Cheleb, or Chelbalrai, the serpent enfolding. The Greek name, 
Ophiuchus, is itself from the Hebrew and Arabic name Afeichus, which means the serpent held. The brightest star in Ophiuchus, a (in the head), is called Ras al Hagus (Arabic), the head of him who holds. 
Other Hebrew names of stars, not identified, are Triophas, treading under foot; Saiph (in the foot* of Ophiuchus), bruised; Carnebus, the wounding ; Megeros, contending. \ In the Zodiac of Denderah we have a throned human figure, called Api-bau, the chief who cometh. He has a hawk s head to show that he is the enemy of the serpent, which is called Khu, and means ruled or enemy. 
All these combine to set before us in detail the nature of the conflict and its final issue. That final issue is, however, exhibited by the last of the three constellations of this chapter. The Victor Himself requires a whole picture to fully set forth the glorious victory. This brings us to 
http://archive.org/stream/witnessofthestar00bulluoft/witnessofthestar00bulluoft_djvu.txt
 
The story that this Asteroid, 1998 QE2, tells us as is passes near to us is that the man who was and is and is to come, who left heaven, is going to destroy the works of the serpent.  He is the one who paid the price for us to set us free, the required price paid in full. Jesus is the one who steps on the scorpion and holds back the serpent from stealing the eternal crown.  The devil has a short time here, and this asteroid reminds us that even though the devil is the god of this world, the prince of the power of the air, he is not going to be in charge forever.  Our reminder is that Jesus who set us free by his blood, is coming! 

Monday, May 20, 2013

Filled With the Spirit - Pentecost; A Day to Celebrate


One of the fascinating things about God is that he is not concerned with keeping holy days exactly the same throughout the years.  God does not mind change.  God does not mind changing the significance of one holy day to another holy day.  We see Jesus born on Rosh Hashanah, Tishri 1, also known as the Feast of Trumpets, the Jewish New Year.  Also on this day, evidence indicates that Noah came out of the ark.  We see Jesus die at Passover as the Passover lamb, the day that commemorates the Jews in captivity, and their protection from the devourer. Passover then became the religious New Year celebration according to Moses.    And then there is Pentecost, the day the Jews celebrated the first fruits.  50 days from Passover, and the birth of the church.  Also, Pentecost is suspected to be Enoch’s birthday and Enoch’s translation day. It is also the day Moses gave the law to the children of Israel. I would say that if God intended us to only celebrate the original holy day as is, he would not have added events to those days worth celebrating.  When God changes something, he simply changes it.

As we considered last week, the disciples left Jerusalem after Jesus was crucified.  They went to Galilee, and Jesus met them there.  They came back to the Mt of Olives, near Jerusalem where Jesus gave his last instructions to the disciples.  Jesus said to wait in Jerusalem.  If we remember, the controversy of Jesus’ missing body was being blamed on Jesus’ disciples.  The priests told the guards to spread that rumor.  The disciples were technically wanted men.  But at the time of Jesus’ ascension, Jesus told them to wait in Jerusalem, so they stayed in an upper room at night but went to the temple for the hours of prayer until Shavuot.   On Shavuot, men were required to appear before the Lord in Jerusalem, it was a pilgrimage feast.  This means that lots of different people from the region would be in Jerusalem and in the temple.

Ex 34:22 And thou shalt observe the feast of weeks, of the firstfruits of wheat harvest, and the feast of ingathering at the year's end.KJV

Deut 16:9-10 Seven weeks shalt thou number unto thee: begin to number the seven weeks from such time as thou beginnest to put the sickle to the corn.10 And thou shalt keep the feast of weeks unto the Lord thy God with a tribute of a freewill offering of thine hand, which thou shalt give unto the Lord thy God, according as the Lord thy God hath blessed thee KJV

Deut 16:16-17 Three times in a year shall all thy males appear before the Lord thy God in the place which he shall choose; in the feast of unleavened bread, and in the feast of weeks, and in the feast of tabernacles: and they shall not appear before the Lord empty:17 Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord thy God which he hath given thee.KJV

Lev 23:15-16 And ye shall count unto you from the morrow after the sabbath, from the day that ye brought the sheaf of the wave offering; seven sabbaths shall be complete:16 Even unto the morrow after the seventh sabbath shall ye number fifty days; and ye shall offer a new meat offering unto the Lord.KJV

These were the requirements at that time for all practicing Jews.  It is interesting that bribery and lying were not a big deal to the priests, as they accused the disciples of taking Jesus’ body.  There certainly was a lack of holiness and a vein of corruption among the top Jewish leaders, but they held the common man to the laws. Hypocrisy; nothing has changed in two thousand years.  During these 50 days, Jesus appeared to the disciples, the disciples went to Tiberias, then came back to Jerusalem as far as Bethany, watched Jesus ascend, then stayed in Jerusalem until the day they were to present themselves to God in the temple.

John 20:19-24 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.20 And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord.21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.KJV

Jesus was preparing his disciples to receive the Holy Spirit.  Remember how people angrily demanded to know how Jesus had power to forgive sins? Now the disciples would be given the power to forgive sins. Thomas wasn’t with them, but he too would have the power to forgive sins.

John 20:25-31 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.30 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.KJV

For eight days the disciples stayed in Jerusalem after the crucifixion.  Then, after Jesus appeared to Thomas, they went to Tiberias on the Sea of Galilee.  At this time I don’t think they knew what to expect so Peter decided to become productive and go fishing.  We have to continue to keep in mind that Jerusalem and Tiberias are 100 miles apart.  This was a good place to get away from the corruption in Jerusalem.  As we looked at Paul’s documentation last week, this is probably the place Jesus was seen by more than 500 people. 

Matt 28:16-20 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed and made appointment with them. 17 And when they saw Him, they fell down and worshiped Him; but some doubted. 18 Jesus approached and, breaking the silence, said to them, All authority (all power of rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. 19 Go then and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 Teaching them to observe everything that I have commanded you, and behold, I am with you all the days (perpetually, uniformly, and on every occasion), to the [very] close and consummation of the age. Amen (so let it be). AMP

All the other people who left Jerusalem and Samaria, and went with the disciples to Galilee were there to keep away from the persecution and to see Jesus as the disciples had seen Jesus in Jerusalem.  Here Jesus gives them all a great commission.  This is why, when we looked at Phillip (the deacon not the disciple) in Samaria last week, there were great miracles done there, Phillip the deacon did what Jesus commanded.  Let’s notice something else, Peter and John came from Jerusalem with the baptism of the Holy Spirit, the eleven apostles went to Jerusalem and received the baptism of the Holy Spirit along with others there, but not everyone received the baptism of the Holy Spirit who went out to make disciples all over the world. There were some people who did not go to Jerusalem that day.  That seems like a contradiction since devout Jews were to present themselves at the temple with their offerings, but people also worshipped at the temple in Samaria, or on the mountain in Samaria as we looked at last week.  Remember, at this time, the temple in Jerusalem was Herod’s temple. The tabernacle of Moses moved around.  It was first in Shiloh (Samaria), not far from the temple that was built there. After the Philistines destroyed Shiloh, the tabernacle moved to Nob (north of Jerusalem), and then to Gabaon (still north of Jerusalem).  The temple was built in Jerusalem by Solomon in 953BC. In 167BC Antiochus desecrates the temple, and in 30 BC Herod built the temple again. Because of the history of movement of the temple and tabernacle, I would think people felt they could worship in a temple other than in Jerusalem. But God chose Jerusalem for the start of a new holy day. When Jesus appears at Tiberias, Thomas is now with Peter and the other disciples.

John 21:1-14 After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself.2 There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples.3 Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing.4 But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus.5 Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No.6 And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.7 Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.8 And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes.9 As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.10 Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught. 11 Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, and hundred and fifty and three: and for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken.12 Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord.13 Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise.14 This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.KJV

This is such a wonderful story of how Jesus loved his disciples.  Peter, naked, jumping into the water with his coat tied around him.  The disciples counting 153 fish, and rowing to shore in the dingy dragging the net of fish.  They all knew it was Jesus.  Jesus was alive for forty days as Luke records.  As John mentioned earlier, Jesus did a lot of signs during that time.  No one should ever discard the words of the disciples since they were with Jesus in his resurrected body.  Jesus probably told them all sorts of things, just like the two people on the road to Emmaus.  This would have been a wonderful forty days for the instructing of the disciples. 

Acts 1:3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: KJV

Just as God seems to re-use holy days, he also re-uses numbers.  Noah was in the ark forty days, and Jesus was in the desert for forty days.  Moses received the commandments and was on Mt Sinai for forty days fasting as well. Goliath taunted the Israelites for forty days.  Now Jesus is in a resurrected body, which does have flesh and bone, and is capable of eating, for forty days.  Yet now, Jesus has somehow become inter-dimensional.  He can pop in and out at any time.

Luke 24:44-53 Then He said to them, This is what I told you while I was still with you: everything which is written concerning Me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled. 45 Then He [thoroughly] opened up their minds to understand the Scriptures, 46 And said to them, Thus it is written that the Christ (the Messiah) should suffer and on the third day rise from (among) the dead, [Hos 6:2.] 47 And that repentance [with a view to and as the condition of] forgiveness of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 And behold, I will send forth upon you what My Father has promised; but remain in the city [Jerusalem] until you are clothed with power from on high. 50 Then He conducted them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up His hands, He invoked a blessing on them. 51 And it occurred that while He was blessing them, He parted from them and was taken up into heaven. 52 And they, worshiping Him, went back to Jerusalem with great joy; 53 And they were continually in the temple celebrating with praises and blessing and extolling God. Amen (so be it). AMP

Luke tells us that they were continually in the temple.  For the next ten days you could find the disciples either in the upper room or in the temple.  They didn’t go fishing, or find other things to do during that ten day period.  But for ten days, prior to the feast of weeks, the disciples were in the temple praising and blessing God. They were expecting something to happen.  They didn’t know exactly what day it would happen, but as Jesus told them, they were expecting to receive the Holy Spirit.  God just so happened to pick a day that was already a holy day, and a place that others would see what was going on. It would have been difficult for the hypocritical religious leaders to see the disciples continually in the temple at the hours of prayer, and yet it would have been hard for them to plot against them as the feast was approaching and all Jewish men were required to present themselves and their offerings in the temple.  I’m sure they slept in the upper room at night and then went to the temple during the day. 

The hours of prayer were morning, afternoon, and evening as the Patriarchs instituted.  Abraham instituted Morning Prayer, while Isaac instituted afternoon prayer, and Jacob evening prayer.  The purpose of prayer was not to change God or change God’s mind, but was to change the individual by judging oneself.  The idea was to change to become connected with God in relationship.   On the other side of Pentecost it is easier to establish a relationship with God by the help of the indwelling Holy Spirit.  Today we are the temple of the Holy Spirit, so therefore wherever we are, the temple is, and we do not have to physically travel to Israel to connect with God.  We see this thought prevalent in the writings of Brother Lawrence where the hours of prayer for him became his time of “fellowship” with God, rather than the time to recite repetitious prayers and chants. 

Acts 1:12-14 Then [the disciples] went back to Jerusalem from the hill called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, [only] a Sabbath day's journey (three-quarters of a mile) away. 13 And when they had entered [the city], they mounted [the stairs] to the upper room where they were [indefinitely] staying — Peter and John and James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas [son] of James. 14 All of these with their minds in full agreement devoted themselves steadfastly to prayer, [waiting together] with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. AMP

A”Sabbath’s Day’s Journey” was less than half a mile.  That was the distance one could travel on the Sabbath day.  Although the laws were skillfully amended with different variants, one was not supposed to travel on the Sabbath day.  Olivet is about 400 yards, or .23 miles from Jerusalem, so the disciples did not violate this law as they walked about a quarter of a mile. While they were in the upper room they voted in a new disciple, as Judas had committed suicide.  The women were in the upper room as well. Women were not allowed in the same place as the men in the temple.  The Court of Women in Herod’s temple was accessed by the Beautiful Gate.   This later would be the place Peter and John would heal the lame man.  The outer area was the Court of the Gentiles; the Beautiful Gate led into the Court of Women, and then from there was the Court of Men or Israel (for Jewish men).  Somewhere, in one of these areas, the Court of the Gentiles, or the Court of Women, the disciples assembled on the day of Pentecost.  Let’s break down some of these Hebrew words.

Acts 2:1 AND WHEN the day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all assembled together [3661] in one place [1909],
NT:3661 homothumadon (hom-oth-oo-mad-on'); adverb from a compound of the base of NT:3674 and NT:2372; unanimously:KJV - with one accord (mind).(Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.)
NT:1909 epi (ep-ee'); a primary preposition; properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution [with the genitive case], i.e. over, upon, etc.; of rest (with the dat.) at, on, etc.; of direction (with the accusative case) towards, upon, etc.:KJV - about (the times), above, after, against, among, as long as (touching), at, beside,  have charge of, (be-, [wherefore-]), in (a place, as much as, the time of, -to), (because) of, (up-) on (behalf of), over, (by, for) the space of, through (-out), (un-) to (-ward), with. In compounds it retains essentially the same import, at, upon, etc. (literally or figuratively).(Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.)

Acts 2:2 When suddenly there came a sound [2279]from heaven like the rushing [5342] of a violent tempest[4157],  blast [972] and it filled[4137] the whole house [3624]in which they were sitting[2521].

NT:2279 echos (ay'-khos); of uncertain affinity; a loud or confused noise ("echo"), i.e. roar; figuratively, a rumor:KJV - fame, sound.(Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.)
NT:5342 phero (fer'-o); a primary verb (for which other and apparently not cognate ones are used in certain tenses only; namely, oio (oy'-o); and enegko (en-eng'-ko); to "bear" or carry (in a very wide application, literally and figuratively, as follows):KJV - be, bear, bring (forth), carry, come,  let her drive, be driven, endure, go on, lay, lead, move, reach, rushing, uphold.(Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.)
NT:4157 pnoe (pno-ay'); from NT:4154; respiration, a breeze: KJV - breath, wind.(Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.)
NT:972 biaios (bee'-ah-yos); from NT:970; violent: KJV - mighty.(Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.)
NT:4137 pleroo (play-ro'-o); from NT:4134; to make replete, i.e. (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute (an office), finish (a period or task), verify (or coincide with a prediction), etc.:KJV - accomplish,  after, (be) complete, end, expire, fill (up), fulfil, (be, make) full (come), fully preach, perfect, supply.(Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.)
NT:3624 oikos (oy'-kos); of uncertain affinity; a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication a family (more or less related, literal or figuratively):KJV - home, house (-hold), temple.(Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.)
NT:2521 kathemai (kath'-ay-mahee); from NT:2596; and hemai (to sit; akin to the base of NT:1476); to sit down; figuratively, to remain, reside:KJV - dwell, sit (by, down).(Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.)

If you haven’t studied this in the Greek, it is a great study.  Here we see that the place they were sitting was completely filled with a loud sound and a strong wind.  The place they were sitting could be the temple, as the definition points to the word being obscure as a house or a temple, probably the House of God.  Since Luke tells us they were continually in the temple, and this was the day of the feast when everyone has to present themselves to God with their offering, it is unlikely that they were in the upper room of someone’s house.  It was 9:00 A.M., one of the hours of prayer; therefore the disciples would have been praying in the temple.  As verse 5 tells us, there were devout men dwelling in Jerusalem from every nation.  The multitude of devout Jews came together to hear what was going on.  The place the disciples were sitting became very loud; not an upper room behind closed doors, but an open place where there were other people. Also, there was a wind; typically no one would notice a wind inside an upper room.  From the outside you couldn’t tell if a violent wind was blowing inside a room.  However, if one was outside, one would know there was a violent tempest all around them.    

Acts 2:3 And there appeared to them tongues resembling fire, which were separated and distributed and which settled on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled (diffused throughout their souls) with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other (different, foreign) languages (tongues), as the Spirit kept giving them clear and loud expression [in each tongue in appropriate words]. 5 Now there were then residing in Jerusalem Jews, devout and God-fearing men from every country under heaven. 6 And when this sound was heard, the multitude came together and they were astonished and bewildered, because each one heard them [the apostles] speaking in his own [particular] dialect.

If people from every country under heaven were hearing the disciples speak their own language, they could not have been in an upper room, but they must have been in a public part of the temple so that people, the devout Jews, would go to find out what the noise was all about.  Have you ever been to a large outdoor festival and a smaller group of people within the festival started doing something that caused a commotion and noise?  That is what was going on here.   So as people went to see what the loud noise was about, they heard their homeland languages being spoken.  The disciples were either in the Court of the Gentiles or the Court of Women when the Holy Spirit came on the day of Pentecost, as the women were part of the “they all” of verse 1.

Acts 2:7 And they were beside themselves with amazement, saying, Are not all these who are talking Galileans? 8 Then how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own (particular) dialect to which we were born? 9 Parthians and Medes and Elamites and inhabitants of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and [the province of] Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and the transient residents from Rome, both Jews and the proselytes [to Judaism from other religions], 11 Cretans and Arabians too — we all hear them speaking in our own native tongues [and telling of] the mighty works of God! 12 And all were beside themselves with amazement and were puzzled and bewildered, saying one to another, What can this mean? 13 But others made a joke of it and derisively said, They are simply drunk and full of sweet [intoxicating] wine. AMP

The disciples were from Galilee, and Galileans dressed differently, just as nations today sometimes dress differently.  There was no sea or lake in Jerusalem so fishermen would have dressed differently and possibly had darker skin from working on the water year round.  Fishermen (as we saw previously with Peter) wore a fisherman’s garment but seemed to work on boats naked. Today, one can usually tell where someone is from by their hairstyle, clothes, shoes, and language dialects or accents.  What did those people from other countries hear? Those people all heard about the mighty works of God.  When we see how many people from various nations heard the mighty works of God, we have to realize that those people would go back to their homeland with a story to tell.  None of the devout Jews or Priests knew what was going on, so the typical response would be to minimize the situation. But Peter told them all about what was happening.

Acts 2:14-39 But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them: You Jews and all you residents of Jerusalem let this be [explained] to you so that you will know and understand; listen closely to what I have to say. 15 For these men are not drunk, as you imagine, for it is [only] the third hour (about 9:00 a.m.) of the day; 16 But [instead] this is [the beginning of] what was spoken through the prophet Joel: 17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, God declares, that I will pour out of My Spirit upon all mankind, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy [telling forth the divine counsels] and your young men shall see visions (divinely granted appearances), and your old men shall dream [divinely suggested] dreams. 18 Yes, and on My menservants also and on My maidservants in those days I will pour out of My Spirit, and they shall prophesy [telling forth the divine counsels and predicting future events pertaining especially to God's kingdom].

Peter recites Joel’s prophecy which includes women; therefore women would have received the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost in the temple, during the feast of Shavuot.  Remember what the devout men from every country heard? They heard them speaking in every language the wonderful mighty works of God. Peter goes on speaking about the Day of the Lord, the day Jesus comes back on earth with his army to eliminate the enemy.

Acts 2:19 And I will show wonders in the sky above and signs on the earth beneath, blood and fire and smoking vapor; 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness and the moon into blood before the obvious day of the Lord comes — that great and notable and conspicuous and renowned [day]. 21 And it shall be that whoever shall call upon the name of the Lord [invoking, adoring, and worshiping the Lord — Christ] shall be saved. [Joel 2:28-32.]

Whoever means whoever. There was no pre-qualifying condition.  Remember the hours of prayer in the temple were for personal relationship with God.  That is why everyone went to the temple, and on this day, a required day for bringing an offering, this offering was to remind everyone of God’s provision.  God poured out his provision, changing this holy day.  Just in case anyone didn’t know about Jesus, Peter tells everyone about him.

Acts 2:22 You men of Israel, listen to what I have to say: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man accredited and pointed out and shown forth and commended and attested to you by God by the mighty works and [the power of performing] wonders and signs which God worked through Him [right] in your midst, as you yourselves know —  23 This Jesus, when delivered up according to the definite and fixed purpose and settled plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and put out of the way [killing Him] by the hands of lawless and wicked men. 24 [But] God raised Him up, liberating Him from the pangs of death, seeing that it was not possible for Him to continue to be controlled or retained by it. 25 For David says in regard to Him, I saw the Lord constantly before me, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken or overthrown or cast down [from my secure and happy state]. 26 Therefore my heart rejoiced and my tongue exulted exceedingly; moreover, my flesh also will dwell in hope [will encamp, pitch its tent, and dwell in hope in anticipation of the resurrection]. 27 For You will not abandon my soul, leaving it helpless in Hades (the state of departed spirits), nor let Your Holy One know decay or see destruction [of the body after death]. 28 You have made known to me the ways of life; You will enrapture me [diffusing my soul with joy] with and in Your presence. [Ps 16:8-11.]

What a great speech and reminder of Psalms, but there is more.

Acts 2:29 Brethren, it is permitted me to tell you confidently and with freedom concerning the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 Being however a prophet, and knowing that God had sealed to him with an oath that He would set one of his descendants on his throne, [2 Sam 7:12-16; Ps 132:11.] 31 He, foreseeing this, spoke [by foreknowledge] of the resurrection of the Christ (the Messiah) that He was not deserted [in death] and left in Hades (the state of departed spirits), nor did His body know decay or see destruction. [Ps 16:10.] 32 This Jesus God raised up, and of that all we [His disciples] are witnesses. 33 Being therefore lifted high by and to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promised [blessing which is the] Holy Spirit, He has made this outpouring which you yourselves both see and hear.

As we have studied previously, the grave could not hold Jesus, and Jesus made Paradise open to those who believe on Him.

 Acts 2:34 For David did not ascend into the heavens; yet he himself says, The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at My right hand and share My throne 35 Until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet. [Ps 110:1.] 36 Therefore let the whole house of Israel recognize beyond all doubt and acknowledge assuredly that God has made Him both Lord and Christ (the Messiah) — this Jesus Whom you crucified.

Can you imagine what was going on? The very priests who set Jesus up for crucifixion, and who tried to blame the disciples for “stealing” Jesus’ body, were now standing with Peter’s finger pointing right at them in front of the devout Jews from all over the world, hearing these words.  When these devout Jews went home, this story would have been told to everyone all over the world. The devout Jews were cut to the heart, and wanted to get right with God.  They were there, at that time, to get right with God; so the timing of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit was perfect.

Acts 2:37 Now when they heard this they were stung (cut) to the heart, and they said to Peter and the rest of the apostles (special messengers), Brethren, what shall we do? 38 And Peter answered them, Repent (change your views and purpose to accept the will of God in your inner selves instead of rejecting it) and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of and release from your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise [of the Holy Spirit] is to and for you and your children, and to and for all that are far away, [even] to and for as many as the Lord our God invites and bids to come to Himself. [Isa 57:19; Joel 2:32.] AMP

This was incredible.  We have minimized the Day of Pentecost to a “nice church service” without understanding the incredible importance of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.   All the great celebration party songs should be sung on Pentecost, along with balloons, cake, streamers, cotton candy, and festive music.  What a great day for water baptism services and repentance celebrations. There should be dancing along with banners, flags. and streamers on Pentecost because it is the day, the holy day, that God chose to give you the Holy Spirit, along with the rest of the world.  Whoever wants to receive can receive.

Acts 2:40 And [Peter] solemnly and earnestly witnessed (testified) and admonished (exhorted) with much more continuous speaking and warned (reproved, advised, encouraged) them, saying, Be saved from this crooked (perverse, wicked, unjust) generation. 41 Therefore those who accepted and welcomed his message were baptized, and there were added that day about 3,000 souls. 42 And they steadfastly persevered, devoting themselves constantly to the instruction and fellowship of the apostles, to the breaking of bread [including the Lord's Supper] and prayers. 43 And a sense of awe (reverential fear) came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were performed through the apostles (the special messengers). 44 And all who believed (who adhered to and trusted in and relied on Jesus Christ) were united and [together] they had everything in common; 45 And they sold their possessions (both their landed property and their movable goods) and distributed the price among all, according as any had need. 46 And day after day they regularly assembled in the temple with united purpose, and in their homes they broke bread [including the Lord's Supper]. They partook of their food with gladness and simplicity and generous hearts, 47 Constantly praising God and being in favor and goodwill with all the people; and the Lord kept adding [to their number] daily those who were being saved [from spiritual death]. AMP

Three thousand people repented and were baptized, and filled with the Holy Spirit.  Then the Lord added to those numbers.  Why would we celebrate anything else on Pentecost, other than the infilling of the Holy Spirit.  There were great signs and wonders that day.  God changed the meaning of that holy day to a day for everyone, rather than just the Jews.  This is how we connect with God in relationship, with the Holy Spirit inside of us.  What a day for celebration.

Monday, May 13, 2013

Friend of Sinners and Samarians


As we studied last week, Jesus gave those who chose to be his disciples and friends a new commandment. We can gain some insight into our savior by who he interacted with. It is quite fascinating that Jesus was a friend himself to sinners and Samarians. In this blog Samarians and Samaritans are speaking of the people who lived in the region of Samaria. While Samaritans are thought of as good people, in Jesus day Samaritans were from Samaria, or Samarians.  His new commandment to those who would call themselves disciples and friends is to love one another.     

John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.KJV

We never see Jesus patting the backs of the Pharisees or Sadducees.  He never told them they were doing a fine job and that they should keep it up.  So why would anyone today want to be Pharisees and Sadducees, rather than friends and disciples of Jesus? If we are truly disciples and friends then we should love each other and free the world from sin.  The legalists hated Jesus’ message.  They had their prejudices and thoughts about how the Messiah would agree with them. Instead Jesus surprised everyone and brought an inclusive message, that whoever wills can be saved.  Because of this radical message, Jesus was accused of being a glutton, let’s explore that.  

Matt 11:18-19 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil.19 The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.KJV

GLUTTON - A person who is debased and excessive in his eating habits. Gluttony is more than overeating. In its association with drunkenness (Prov 23:21; Deut 21:20), it describes a life given to excess. When Jesus was called a "gluttonous man" (Matt 11:19), His critics were accusing Him of being loose and excessive by associating with tax collectors and sinners.(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Copyright © 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)

From the Old Testament, being a glutton was worthy of death.

OT:2151 zalal (zaw-lal'); a primitive root [compare OT:2107]; to shake (as in the wind), i.e. to quake; figuratively, to be loose morally, worthless or prodigal: KJV - blow down, glutton, riotous (eater), vile.(Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.)

Deut 21:18-21 If a man have a stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his father, or the voice of his mother, and that, when they have chastened him, will not hearken unto them:19 Then shall his father and his mother lay hold on him, and bring him out unto the elders of his city, and unto the gate of his place;20 And they shall say unto the elders of his city, This our son is stubborn and rebellious, he will not obey our voice; he is a glutton [2151], and a drunkard.21 And all the men of his city shall stone him with stones, that he die: so shalt thou put evil away from among you; and all Israel shall hear, and fear.KJV

While the Pharisees and Sadducees wanted to put Jesus to death, it was not because of gluttony. They mocked his character by their accusations. I find it interesting that by this time in history people were not stoning their gluttonous sons.  I suppose the culture of society had softened up so that they did not practice this any longer.

Matt 9:9-13  9 And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him.10 And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples.11 And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?12 But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.KJV

Jesus ate with the publicans and sinners.  Jesus was not so religious that he couldn’t eat with the unsaved.  This infuriated the self-righteous.  I am calling the Pharisees and Sadducees self-righteous because they are attempting to become righteous by their own works.  Only those who recognize the need for a savior can become righteous. The self-righteous propagate superstition to try to add credibility to their position of self-righteousness.  Let’s see what Jesus said.

Luke 13:1-5 About that time some people came up and told him about the Galileans Pilate had killed while they were at worship, mixing their blood with the blood of the sacrifices on the altar. 2 Jesus responded, "Do you think those murdered Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans? 3 Not at all. Unless you turn to God, you too will die. 4 And those eighteen in Jerusalem the other day, the ones crushed and killed when the Tower of Siloam collapsed and fell on them, do you think they were worse citizens than all other Jerusalemites? 5 Not at all. Unless you turn to God, you too will die." (from THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language © 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson. All rights reserved.)

Jesus confronted the superstition that our behavior can control good or bad outcomes.  Good people are treated horribly, and bad people may never suffer, that is simply life.  The people who were killed in the temple were not bad people; they were in the temple when they were killed.  Their sins were not worse than anyone else’s sins.  Jesus never told us if we were self-righteous (following the law) or if we repent and are saved, that we would be spared from trouble, he said the opposite.  I find it interesting that Jesus pointed out Galileans and Jerusalemites.  He did not mention the Samarians. Hold that thought. 

 Luke 20:19-26 When the scribes and the high priests realized that Jesus had told this parable about them, they wanted to arrest him right then, but they were afraid of the crowd.20 So they watched him closely and sent spies who pretended to be honest men in order to trap him in what he would say. They wanted to hand him over to the jurisdiction of the governor, 21 so they asked him, “Teacher, we know that you’re right in what you say and teach, and that you don’t favor any individual, but teach the way of God truthfully. 22 Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?”23 But he discerned their craftiness and responded to them, 24 “Show me a denarius. Whose face and name does it have?” “Caesar’s,” they replied.25 So he told them, “Then give back to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” 26 So they couldn’t catch him before the people in what he said. Amazed at his answer, they became silent.ISV

We know that in chapter 23, one of the things they accuse Jesus of before Pilate, is not rendering to Caesar.  Jesus was not interested in changing the political system; he was interested in changing the unsaved.  Again, the self-righteous wanted to continue in their ways while condemning sinners. Because they condemned Jesus as a sinner, they did not respect anything he was saying.  Paul, who was one of those to condemn Jesus and his followers, speaks about his sinful past.

1 Tim 1:12-17  12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.16 Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.17 Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.KJV

Paul is saying that no one is too sinful to not obtain mercy.  If Jesus had mercy on Paul, then he will have mercy on all the Pharisees, Sadducees, tax collectors, Samarians, and sinners.  Where the Pharisees and Sadducees separated themselves from everyone else, Jesus brings them together under the heading of “unsaved”.  To understand that this separation of “classes” that existed was not only in words but steeped into their very culture, we have to look at the geography of the area. 

The Samarians were heathens to the Jews of Jesus’ day because of intermarriage among the people from other nations who came back from captivity.  Jesus always treated them as unsaved like everyone else.  Jesus did not have a special hatred toward the Samarians as the Jews did.  To explain Samaria’s location, Samaria is between Galilee and Judea, going from north to south, Galilee, Samaria, Judea. To the east of all three cities lies the Jordan River, to the North of the Jordan River is the Sea of Galilee, to the south of the Jordan River is the Dead Sea.  To the west of the three cities is the Mediterranean Sea. To travel by land between Galilee to Judea one must travel through Samaria, unless, like the Jews of the first century, one would go around Samaria by crossing the Jordan twice on the east, or sailing around Samaria on the west.  Jesus took the direct route through Samaria; he was not deterred by the culture. 

To bring this into our modern understanding, it would be similar to racial prejudice.  The people living north and south of Samaria made up lies and stories about the people in order to scare others into not going there.  The Samarians were also considered heathens because they had their own temple to worship in. However, the Samarians followed the Torah and the Torah only. Therefore, the Samarians believed they were true to following God without all the traditions and amendments to the laws.  As we just saw regarding gluttony, the Jews were not following the Torah laws, but had amended them to suit their culture.  Note, last week we referenced dedicating possessions to the temple.

John 4:7-43   There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.8 (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.

It must have been strange for the disciples to first be in Samaria, and then secondly to find Jesus speaking to a Samarian women as the Jews have no dealings with the Samarians.

John 4:10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water?12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.15 The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.16 Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither.17 The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband:18 For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.19 The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.20 Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.

Their fathers worshipped in that mountain because Moses told them to.  Some people tried to erase history because of their bias toward the Northern tribes, but archeologists have uncovered the sites of two temples there.  This now clarifies some of Nehemiah and Hosea’s condemnations towards the priesthood there (see the End Notes for more details). We have to understand the bitter rivalry between the northern kingdom, and the southern kingdom because of bad political leaders. Sychar is where this conversation was taking place, the place of Jacob’s well which was between Mt Gerizim and Mt Ebal. 

Deut 11:29-32And it shall come to pass, when the Lord thy God hath brought thee in unto the land whither thou goest to possess it, that thou shalt put the blessing upon mount Gerizim, and the curse upon mount Ebal.30 Are they not on the other side Jordan, by the way where the sun goeth down, in the land of the Canaanites, which dwell in the champaign over against Gilgal, beside the plains of Moreh?31 For ye shall pass over Jordan to go in to possess the land which the Lord your God giveth you, and ye shall possess it, and dwell therein.32 And ye shall observe to do all the statutes and judgments which I set before you this day.KJV

Josh 8:33-35 And all Israel, and their elders, and officers, and their judges, stood on this side the ark and on that side before the priests the Levites, which bare the ark of the covenant of the Lord, as well the stranger, as he that was born among them; half of them over against mount Gerizim, and half of them over against mount Ebal; as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded before, that they should bless the people of Israel.34 And afterward he read all the words of the law, the blessings and cursings, according to all that is written in the book of the law.35 There was not a word of all that Moses commanded, which Joshua read not before all the congregation of Israel, with the women, and the little ones, and the strangers that were conversant among them.KJV

Joshua did what was commanded by Moses regarding blessing and cursing on the mountain, but this was the land of the Canaanites, and Joshua did not completely eradicate the Canaanites. In Jesus’ time people were still worshipping on that mountain.  If we look at this situation from 40,000 ft, we see that God is not limited to “living in a temple”, so where one worships is not at issue.  If we remember, the glory left the temple at Jerusalem in Ezekiel’s time, so today one should not hold grudges regarding Samarians and Jews. Back to Jesus.

John 4:21 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.

Instead of glossing over this, let’s keep in mind why Jesus said this.  Salvation is of the Jews because Jesus comes from the line of David, the tribe of Judah.  But Jesus clarifies this by pointing out that Pentecost will change all of this rivalry.

John 4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.25 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.

The Samarians were awaiting the Messiah. Jesus tells her He is the Messiah.  When he said these things in Judah he was hated.

John 4:26 Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.

The disciples didn’t understand why Jesus would speak to a heathen, how could she be saved?

John 4:27 And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why talkest thou with her?28 The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men,29 Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?30 Then they went out of the city, and came unto him 31 In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat.32 But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of.33 Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat?34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.35 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.36 And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.37 And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth.38 I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.

Jesus explains to the disciples that the harvest of people is ready; and the Samaritans believed on Jesus.

John 4:39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did.40 So when the Samaritans were come unto him, they besought him that he would tarry with them: and he abode there two days.41 And many more believed because of his own word;42 And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.43 Now after two days he departed thence, and went into Galilee.KJV

Incredible, the sinful, intermarried, northern cities/tribes, believed on Jesus.  They were looking for the Messiah and now they believed in the Messiah.  This was different from Judea.   On a return trip however, the Samaritans did not receive Jesus.  Let’s look at this.

Luke 9:51-56 Now when the time was almost come for Jesus to be received up [to heaven], He steadfastly and determinedly set His face to go to Jerusalem. 52 And He sent messengers before Him; and they reached and entered a Samaritan village to make [things] ready for Him; 53 But [the people] would not welcome or receive or accept Him, because His face was [set as if He was] going to Jerusalem. 54 And when His disciples James and John observed this, they said, Lord, do You wish us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, even as Elijah did? [2 Kings 1:9-16.] 55 But He turned and rebuked and severely censured them. He said, You do not know of what sort of spirit you are, 56 For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them [from the penalty of eternal death]. And they journeyed on to another village. AMP

Let’s remember, the Samarians had a temple, and Jesus was going to Jerusalem for Passover.  This probably seemed insulting to them because they believed he was the Messiah.  Yet Jesus had to be killed in Jerusalem, so this was bigger than worship during a regular Passover.  It is interesting that Jesus illustrates who our neighbors are, using the analogy of a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. Jerusalem is south west of Jericho. Jericho is in Samaria in the eastern mountains.  People went from Galilee to Jerusalem to worship in the temple at Passover.  Instead of traveling through Samaria, people took an eastern route over the mountains, either crossing the Jordan or traveling along the west bank of the Jordan. 

Luke 10:29-37  29 But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour?30 And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.35 And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?37 And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.KJV

The three characters in Jesus’ story are a Priest, a Levite, and a Samaritan. At this time, a priest was not necessarily a Levite.  At the time Nehemiah came back to rebuild the city, the Levites were working in fields as the people were not supporting the priesthood any longer due to so many invasions.  Jesus makes the Samaritan the hero of the story.  To Judeans, that was a harsh story. Jesus is saying that we should be neighborly like a Samarian. The self-righteous probably flipped. 

 When Jesus was going to Judea from Galilee, passing along the border of Samaria and Galilee, he cleansed ten lepers.  On their way to show themselves to the priest, one turned back and gave thanks. 

Luke 17:11-19 As He went on His way to Jerusalem, it occurred that [Jesus] was passing [along the border] between Samaria and Galilee. 12 And as He was going into one village, He was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance. 13 And they raised up their voices and called, Jesus, Master, take pity and have mercy on us! 14 And when He saw them, He said to them, Go [at once] and show yourselves to the priests. And as they went, they were cured and made clean. [Lev 14:2-32.] 15 Then one of them, upon seeing that he was cured, turned back, recognizing and thanking and praising God with a loud voice; 16 And he fell prostrate at Jesus' feet, thanking Him [over and over]. And he was a Samaritan. 17 Then Jesus asked, Were not [all] ten cleansed? Where are the nine? 18 Was there no one found to return and to recognize and give thanks and praise to God except this alien? 19 And He said to him, Get up and go on your way. Your faith (your trust and confidence that spring from your belief in God) has restored you to health. AMP

The alien, the one from Samaria, gave thanks.  Jesus came to break down divisions between people groups, tribes, and nations.  He considered all of us sinners, even the self righteous.  In Luke, we see three parables that Jesus told; the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son.  All three of these stories show the extent we are to search and rejoice over the lost being saved.

Luke 15:1-2 NOW THE tax collectors and [notorious and especially wicked] sinners were all coming near to [Jesus] to listen to Him. 2 And the Pharisees and the scribes kept muttering and indignantly complaining, saying, This man accepts and receives and welcomes [preeminently wicked] sinners and eats with them. AMP

Luke 15:7 Thus, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one [especially] wicked person who repents (changes his mind, abhorring his errors and misdeeds, and determines to enter upon a better course of life) than over ninety-nine righteous persons who have no need of repentance. AMP

Luke 15:10 Even so, I tell you, there is joy among and in the presence of the angels of God over one [especially] wicked person who repents (changes his mind for the better, heartily amending his ways, with abhorrence of his past sins). AMP

Luke 15:30-32 But when this son of yours arrived, who has devoured your estate with immoral women, you have killed for him that [wheat-] fattened calf! 31 And the father said to him, Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 But it was fitting to make merry, to revel and feast and rejoice, for this brother of yours was dead and is alive again! He was lost and is found! AMP

Because Jesus and his disciples traveled through Samaria often, the Samarians were not left out of the events of Jesus’ death.  After Jesus was crucified, he appeared to his disciples, although we might think that his disciples stayed in Jerusalem after Jesus’ death, they went to a special mountain location in the mountains near the sea of Tiberias.  At the time, the disciples were in great danger as the soldiers reported to the chief priests what had happened and that Jesus’ body had risen.  The priests bribed the guards and lied, saying that the disciples took Jesus’ body. It may have been that the disciples went to Galilee along with lots of other people, traveling through Samaria. 

Matt 28:16-20 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.KJV

John 21:1 After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself.KJV

Paul tells us that Jesus was seen by over 500 brethren at once.  This was probably not in Jerusalem as that would have made quite a commotion.  After this, the disciples went back towards Jerusalem to the Mt of Olives, this is where Jesus ascended.  By today’s modern maps, that is 161km, or about 100 miles one way.  However, they traveled this distance, by foot, camel, or via the Mediterranean Sea; it was not a short trip.  Each time they took the journey, it would have taken them 3 days or so by foot.  Along the way they probably told the story of what had happened to all the people they came across.  There were many disciples that may have left Jerusalem and went to Galilee at this time.  Somehow, we have the idea the disciples were sitting around in an upper room for 50 days, which is not true.  Then they were told by an angel, on the Mt of Olives, to go back to Jerusalem and wait for the Holy Spirit. 

1 Cor 15:4-8 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:5 And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:6 After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep.7 After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles.8 And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.KJV

The social bias of the day was to keep away from sinners, tax collectors, Samarians, and Jesus.   Although the Samarians believed on Jesus as Messiah, the majority of the Jews did not. When the Apostles were scattered, Phillip went to Samaria.

Acts 8:4-25 Now those who were scattered abroad went about [through the land from place to place] preaching the glad tidings, the Word [the doctrine concerning the attainment through Christ of salvation in the kingdom of God]. 5 Philip [the deacon, not the apostle] went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed the Christ (the Messiah) to them [the people]; [Acts 6:5.] 6 And great crowds of people with one accord listened to and heeded what was said by Philip, as they heard him and watched the miracles and wonders which he kept performing [from time to time]. 7 For foul spirits came out of many who were possessed by them, screaming and shouting with a loud voice, and many who were suffering from palsy or were crippled were restored to health. 8 And there was great rejoicing in that city. 9 But there was a man named Simon, who had formerly practiced magic arts in the city to the utter amazement of the Samaritan nation, claiming that he himself was an extraordinary and distinguished person. 10 They all paid earnest attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is that exhibition of the power of God which is called great (intense). 11 And they were attentive and made much of him, because for a long time he had amazed and bewildered and dazzled them with his skill in magic arts. 12 But when they believed the good news (the Gospel) about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ (the Messiah) as Philip preached it, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Even Simon himself believed [he adhered to, trusted in, and relied on the teaching of Philip], and after being baptized, devoted himself constantly to him. And seeing signs and miracles of great power which were being performed, he was utterly amazed. 14 Now when the apostles (special messengers) at Jerusalem heard that [the country of] Samaria had accepted and welcomed the Word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, 15 And they came down and prayed for them that the Samaritans might receive the Holy Spirit; 16 For He had not yet fallen upon any of them, but they had only been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then [the apostles] laid their hands on them one by one, and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 However, when Simon saw that the [Holy] Spirit was imparted through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he brought money and offered it to them, 19 Saying, Grant me also this power and authority, in order that anyone on whom I place my hands may receive the Holy Spirit. 20 But Peter said to him, Destruction overtake your money and you, because you imagined you could obtain the [free] gift of God with money! 21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is all wrong in God's sight [it is not straightforward or right or true before God]. [Ps 78:37.] 22 So repent of this depravity and wickedness of yours and pray to the Lord that, if possible, this contriving thought and purpose of your heart may be removed and disregarded and forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in a bond forged by iniquity [to fetter souls]. [Isa 58:6.] 24 And Simon answered, Pray for me [beseech the Lord, both of you], that nothing of what you have said may befall me! 25 Now when [the apostles] had borne their testimony and preached the message of the Lord, they went back to Jerusalem, proclaiming the glad tidings (Gospel) to many villages of the Samaritans [on the way]. AMP

This is an amazing story; after the day of Pentecost the Samarians received the Holy Spirit, just as Jesus said.  Now we can truly understand that Jesus was a friend to all sinners.  He did not care what nationality, or tribe, or political affiliation, or what past, or present sins people had, everyone needed what he could give them, eternal life. It is our charge to get the unsaved saved, and then we are to love them so that others will know we are disciples and friends of Jesus.  It should not matter if someone is a sinner or a Samarian, self righteous, or a legalist, everyone can become a disciple.  


End Notes:

Samaria — a watch-mountain or a watch-tower. In the heart of the mountains of Israel, a few miles north-west of Shechem, stands the "hill of Shomeron," a solitary mountain, a great "mamelon." It is an oblong hill, with steep but not inaccessible sides, and a long flat top. Omri, the king of Israel, purchased this hill from Shemer its owner for two talents of silver, and built on its broad summit the city to which he gave the name of "Shomeron", i.e., Samaria, as the new capital of his kingdom instead of Tirzah (1 Kings 16:24). As such it possessed many advantages. Here Omri resided during the last six years of his reign. As the result of an unsuccessful war with Syria, he appears to have been obliged to grant to the Syrians the right to "make streets in Samaria", i.e., probably permission to the Syrian merchants to carry on their trade in the Israelite capital. This would imply the existence of a considerable Syrian population. "It was the only great city of Palestine created by the sovereign. All the others had been already consecrated by patriarchal tradition or previous possession. But Samaria was the choice of Omri alone. He, indeed, gave to the city which he had built the name of its former owner, but its especial connection with himself as its founder is proved by the designation which it seems Samaria bears in Assyrian inscriptions, Beth-khumri ('the house or palace of Omri').", Stanley.
Samaria was frequently besieged. In the days of Ahab, Benhadad II. came up against it with thirty-two vassal kings, but was defeated with a great slaughter (1 Kings 20:1-21). A second time, next year, he assailed it; but was again utterly routed, and was compelled to surrender to Ahab (20:28-34), whose army, as compared with that of Benhadad, was no more than "two little flocks of kids."
In the days of Jehoram this Benhadad again laid siege to Samaria, during which the city was reduced to the direst extremities. But just when success seemed to be within their reach, they suddenly broke up the seige, alarmed by a mysterious noise of chariots and horses and a great army, and fled, leaving their camp with all its contents behind them. The famishing inhabitants of the city were soon relieved with the abundance of the spoil of the Syrian camp; and it came to pass, according to the word of Elisha, that "a measure of fine flour was sold for a shekel, and two measures of barely for a shekel, in the gates of Samaria" (2 Kings 7).
Shalmaneser invaded Israel in the days of Hoshea, and reduced it to vassalage. He laid siege to Samaria (723 B.C.), which held out for three years, and was at length captured by Sargon, who completed the conquest Shalmaneser had begun (2 Kings 18:9-12; 17:3), and removed vast numbers of the tribes into captivity. (See SARGON.)
This city, after passing through various vicissitudes, was given by the emperor Augustus to Herod the Great, who rebuilt it, and called it Sebaste (Gr. form of Augustus) in honour of the emperor. In the New Testament the only mention of it is in Acts 8:5-14, where it is recorded that Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached there.
It is now represented by the hamlet of Sebustieh, containing about three hundred inhabitants. The ruins of the ancient town are all scattered over the hill, down the sides of which they have rolled. The shafts of about one hundred of what must have been grand Corinthian columns are still standing, and attract much attention, although nothing definite is known regarding them. (Comp. Mic 1:6.)
In the time of Christ, Western Palestine was divided into three provinces, Judea, Samaria, and Galilee. Samaria occupied the centre of Palestine (John 4:4). It is called in the Talmud the "land of the Cuthim," and is not regarded as a part of the Holy Land at all.
(from Easton's Bible Dictionary, PC Study Bible formatted electronic database Copyright © 2003, 2006 Biblesoft, Inc. All rights reserved.)


SAMARIA, CITY OF [suh MAR ih uh] (lookout) - the capital city of the northern kingdom of Israel (see  Map 6, B-3).
Built about 880 B.C. by Omri, the sixth king of Israel (1 Kings 16:24), Samaria occupied a 91-meter (300-foot) high hill about 68 kilometers (42 miles) north of Jerusalem, and 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of the Mediterranean Sea. This hill was situated on the major north-south road through Palestine. It also commanded the east-west route to the Plain of Sharon and the Mediterranean Sea. Because of its hilltop location, Samaria could be defended easily. Its only weakness was that the nearest spring was a mile distant, but this difficulty was overcome by the use of cisterns.
Samaria withstood an attack by Ben-Hadad, king of Syria (2 Kings 6:24-25), but it finally fell to the Assyrians, in 722 B.C. - 21 B.C., and its inhabitants were carried into captivity. The city was repopulated by people from Babylon, Cuthah, Ava, Hamath, and from Sepharvaim (2 Kings 17:24), all bringing their pagan idolatries with them. Intermarriage of native Jews with these foreigners led to the mixed race of SAMARITANS so despised by fullblooded Jews during the time of Jesus (John 4:1-10).
In excavations of Samaria, archaeologists have uncovered several different levels of occupation by the Israelites. The first two levels, from the reigns of Omri and Ahab, show careful construction, apparently by Phoenician craftsmen. At this time, the city may have been 20 acres in extent, enclosed by an outer wall 6 to 8 meters (20 to 30 feet) thick, with a more narrow inner stone wall about 2 meters (5 feet) thick. A two-story palace was constructed at the higher western end of the hill around some courtyards. In one of these courtyards a pool about 5 by 9 meters (17 by 33 feet) was discovered. This may have been the pool where the blood of Ahab was washed from his chariot after he was killed in a battle against the Syrians (1 Kings 22:38).
The palace was described as an ivory house (1 Kings 22:39; Amos 3:15). Excavations near the pool uncovered a storeroom housing 500 plaques or fragments of ivory used for inlay work in walls and furniture.
The third level of the city, from the period of Jehu (about 841 B.C. - 813 B.C.), gave evidence of additions and reconstruction. Levels four to six covered the period of Jereboam II and showed that repairs had been made to Samaria before the Assyrians captured it in  722/21 B.C. From this period came several pieces of pottery inscribed with administrative records describing shipments of wine and oil to Samaria. One potsherd recorded the name of the treasury official who received the shipment, the place of origin, and the names of the peasants who had paid their taxes. Structures from the Greek period can still be seen in ruined form. A series of round towers are magnificent monuments of the Hellenistic age in Palestine. Roman remains include a colonnaded street leading from the west gate, an aqueduct, a stadium, and an impressive theater.
The small village of Sebastiyeh—an Arabic corruption of the Greco-Roman name Sebaste—now occupies part of the ancient site of this historic city. Even after the Israelite residents of Samaria were deported, the city continued to be inhabited by several different groups under the successive authority of Assyria, Babylon, Persia, Greece and Rome. Herod the Great, Roman procurator in Palestine (ruled 37 B.C.- A.D. 4) when Jesus was born, made many improvements to Samaria and renamed it Sebaste-the Greek term for Augustus-in honor of the emperor of Rome. This Herodian city is probably the "city of Samaria" mentioned in the book of Acts (8:5).

SAMARIA, REGION OF  [suh MAR ih uh] — a territory in the uplands of central Palestine that corresponded roughly with the lands allotted to the tribe of Ephraim and the western portion of Manasseh. Samaria consisted of about 1,400 square miles of attractive, fertile land, bounded by the Valley of Jezreel on the south and Mount Carmel on the north. Its rich alluvial soil produced valuable grain crops, olives, and grapes. This productivity was made all the more important by the presence of two north-south and three east-west roads. Samaria was able to engage in commerce with neighboring Phoenicia as well as the more distant nations of Syria and Egypt.
Because Samaritan soil was considerably more fertile than the soil in Judah, the Northern Kingdom was always more prosperous. But the very attractiveness of the territory brought invaders, while trade with such pagan nations exposed the people to corrupt foreign religions. The prophets strongly condemned the wickedness of Samaria-its idolatry, immorality, idle luxury, and oppression of the poor (Hos 7:1; 8:5-7).
In the time of Jesus, Palestine west of the Jordan River was divided into the three provinces of Galilee, Samaria, and Judea. Because of their intermarriage with foreigners, the people of Samaria were shunned by orthodox Jews. Situated between Galilee and Judea, Samaria was the natural route for traveling between those two provinces. But the pure blooded Jews had no dealings with the Samaritans (John 4:9). They would travel east cross the Jordan River, and detour around Samaria.
Also see SAMARITANS.
(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Copyright © 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)


SAMARITANS [suh MAR ih tuhns] — natives or inhabitants of Samaria, a distinct territory or region in central Palestine.
Until the rise of Assyrian power in the ancient Near East, Samaria was occupied by the tribes of Ephraim and the western portion of the tribe of Manasseh. Many of the sites in Samaria held important places in Israelite history. Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal were the scene of the covenant-renewal ceremony in Joshuas time (Josh 8:30-35). Shechem, situated near Mount Gerizim, was an ancient Canaanite town that regained its earlier prosperity during the monarchy. It became capital of the northern kingdom of Israel briefly under Jeroboam I (about 931 B.C. - 910 B.C.; 1 Kings 12:25), but it was replaced by Penuel and then Tirzah.
Construction on the city of Samaria was begun by Omri about 880 B.C. and completed by his son Ahab (about 874 B.C. - 853 B.C.). Samaria became the new capital of Israel, and successive kings added to it and rebuilt sections to make it a well-fortified capital. But the city fell to the Assyrians in 722 B.C. - 721 B.C. Most of the leading citizens of the Northern Kingdom were deported to places in Syria, Assyria, and Babylonia.
Sargon replaced the deported Israelites with foreign colonists (2 Kings 17:24). These newcomers intermarried among the Israelites who remained in Samaria. Later their numbers were increased when Esarhaddon and Ashurbanipal (the biblical Osnapper; Ezra 4:10) sent more Assyrian colonists to the district of Samaria. These people took the name Samaritans from the territory and attempted to settle the land. However, "they did not fear the Lord, and the Lord sent lions among them, which killed some of them" (2 Kings 17:25). In despair they sent to Assyria for "one of the priests" who would "teach them the rituals of the God of the land" (2 Kings 17:27). Thereafter the Samaritans worshiped the God of Israel. But they also continued their idolatry, worshiping the pagan gods imported from foreign lands (2 Kings 17:29).
So the Samaritans were a "mixed race" contaminated by foreign blood and false worship. The Jewish historian Josephus indicates that the Samaritans were also opportunists. When the Jews enjoyed prosperity, the Samaritans were quick to acknowledge their blood relationship. But when the Jews sufferred hard times, the Samaritans disowned any such kinship, declaring that they were descendants of Assyrian immigrants.
When a group of Jews, led by Zerubbabel, returned from the Babylonian Captivity, the Samaritans offered to help Zerubbabel rebuild the Temple. When their offer was rejected, they tried to prevent the Jews from finishing their project (Ezra 4:1-10). When Nehemiah attempted to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, he was opposed by Arabic and Samaritan groups (Neh 2:10-6:14). The breach between the Samaritans and the Jews widened even further when Ezra, in his zeal for racial purity, pressured all Israelite men who married during the Captivity to divorce their pagan wives (Ezra 10:18-44).
 The final break between the two groups occurred when the Samaritans built a rival temple on Mount Gerizim, claiming Shechem rather than Zion (Jerusalem) as the true Beth-el (house of God), the site traditionally chosen and blessed by the Lord.
The Samaritans trace their beginnings to the time of Eli, who established the sanctuary for worship of God in Shiloh. They also believe their religion is distinctive because they base their beliefs and practices on the Torah, or the Law-the first five books of the Old Testament. They recognize no other Hebrew Scriptures as authoritative.
At what stage the pagan elements of Mesopotamian religion were removed from Samaritan belief is impossible to determine. But probably by the time of Nehemiah (about 450 B.C.), the Samaritans considered themselves orthodox. The Samaritans also claimed that Ezra changed the Hebrew text to favor Jerusalem over Mount Gerizim as the site for the second temple. But the Samaritans themselves may also be guilty of changing the wording of the Law to reflect favorably on their traditions.
In the Roman period the Samaritans appeared to prosper. Their religion was made legal in the Empire, being practiced in synagogues in Italy and Africa. Suffering persecution from Christians, they finally revolted in the fifth and sixth centuries. The Roman emperor Justinian (ruled  A.D. 527-565) suppressed the Samaritans and brought them almost to extinction, a condition from which they never recovered. But two small units of Samaritans survive until the present time-one group in Nablus (ancient Shechem) and a second group near Tel Aviv.
The pride of the modern Samaritan community at Nablus is a large scroll of the books of the Law, inscribed in an angular script much as Hebrew was written long before the time of Christ.
The Samaritans retained their belief in God as the unique Creator and Sustainer of all things. They also worshiped Him in the three feasts prescribed in the books of the Law-Passover, Pentecost, and Booths (or Tabernacles) - and the solemn Day of Atonement. But their faith was influenced in later periods by Islamic and other beliefs, unlike the orthodox Jewish community. To this day they sacrifice one or more lambs on Mount Gerizim during the Feast of Passover.
(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Copyright © 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)




Today we can state with certainty that the first phase of the temple on Mount Gerizim was erected in the middle of the fifth century BCE by Sanballat the Horonite, a contemporary of Ezra and Nehemiah, who lived more than one hundred years before the Sanballat that is mentioned by Josephus. Sanballat from the time of Nehemiah was probably a resident of  Hawara (Horon), located at the foot of Mount Gerizim, and was a descendant of the last Israelites who remained in Samaria after the destruction of the city by the Assyrians.
Although Sanballat was the sworn enemy of Nehemiah, who returned to Judah from exile in 445 BCE, and wanted to kill him, he maintained good relations with the people in Judah and the high priesthood that served in the temple in Jerusalem.
The daughter of Sanballat married the grandson of the high priest Eliashib. This angered Nehemiah and he expelled the grandson from Jerusalem: “And one of the sons of Jehoiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was the son-in-law of Sanballat the Horonite therefore I chased him from me” (Nehemiah 13:28).
Sanballat the Horonite who was a pahat – governor of Samaria on behalf of the Persian Empire – decided to build a temple to a supreme god on Mount Gerizim, which was sacred to both the people of Samaria and the people of Judah, and thus severe all ties with Jerusalem and its temple.
He decided to wed his daughter to a scion of the high priesthood in Jerusalem thereby making all his descendants priests from the sect of the Jerusalem priesthood. It seems that along with the grandson of Eliashib the Priest other Judean priests came to Mount Gerizim where they built and sanctified the temple as a replica of the Jerusalem temple


It should be mentioned that the state of the priesthood and the temple in Jerusalem at this time was at its nadir as attested to by Nehemiah “I also found out that the portions of the Levites had not been given to them; so that the Levites and the singers, who did the work, had fled each to his field. So I remonstrated with the officials and said, ‘Why is the house of God forsaken’” (Nehemiah 13:10-11). The prophet Malachi, who is thought to have lived at the same time, also had harsh words about the temple and the running of it: “O priests, who despise my name….oh that there were one among you who would shut the doors, that you might not kindle fire upon my altar in vain” (Malachi 1:6-10). He later accuses them of even respecting their pahat more than the Lord. Due to the difficult conditions that prevailed in the temple it was therefore not hard for Sanballat to assemble unemployed Jewish priests in the temple onMount Gerizim. Josephus adds that Sanballat gave them land and built homes for them. In our opinion this was the historical setting against which the temple was built on Mount Gerizim.
 

The Samaritan tradition sees things differently. While in Deuteronomy it says, “at the place which the Lord will choose to make his name dwell there”, in the Samaritan Torah it states “a place that was chosen at Mt Gerizim”. According to the Jewish Bible, Joshua built the altar on Mount Gerizim and not on Mount Ebal. The original temple was built on Mount Gerizim, and not according to Jewish belief, in Shiloh where Phinehas the priest served and to which where all the tribes of Israel made pilgrimage.
Prior to the death of Uzi the Priest, three events occurred: hastarat hapanim, the eternal flame was extinguished and the holy vessels disappeared from the temple, these having been hidden in a cave onMount Gerizim. The vessels will be rediscovered when the messiah, Hathab, comes, when the End of Days will begin. 


The power of the Gerizim temple in the second century BCE was no less strong than that of Jerusalem. It was sanctified by the Samaritans  in Samaria and in the Diaspora, particularly in Egypt, and led to an intense conflict between Jews and Samaritans. As mentioned, it began first as a theological argument about Mount Gerizim and Mount Moriah and the holy places, and by the end of the second century BCE led to a bitter war between the Hasmoneans and Samaritans. John Hyrcanus besieged Mount Gerizim and razed the city to the ground. In every house that was excavated a thick burnt layer was discovered and many coins of John Hyrcanus and his son Yannai were recovered.
The date of the Samaritan temple destruction, the 21st of Kislev, became a holiday for the Jews during which it is forbidden to eulogize the dead.
Despite the destruction, the Samaritans continued to reside around Mount Gerizim and to sanctify it even though they were forbidden from going up onto the hill and praying there. Only in the fourth century CE, about four hundred years after the destruction of the Jerusalem temple by the Romans, did the Byzantine rulers allow the Samaritans to restore the compound but this was short-lived.  In 484 CE the Byzantine emperor Zenon destroyed what remained of the compound and built a church dedicated to Maria Theotokos (the bearer of god) atop it.