Book Review: Man of the Century: The Life and Times of Pope John Paul II

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.

Book Review: Man of the Century: The Life and Times of Pope John Paul II






article by Darris McNeely





Man of the Century: The Life and Times of Pope John Paul II by Jonathan Kwitney Henry Holt and Company, New York, 1997



Jonathan Kwitney's Man of the Century: The Life and Times of Pope John Paul II,is a sympathetic treatment of the life of the former Bishop of Krakow, Karol Wojtyla. This 678-page biography traces the present Pope's life from his birth in 1920 in Wadowice, Poland. His story is told within the context of Cold War Poland and its struggle against Communism. John Paul is presented as a key player in the overthrow of Communism in Eastern Europe and Russia.



This book offers a review of the major issues that have concerned the Roman Catholic Church in the past 50 years. The issues of Communism, birth control, ecumenicalism, and attacks upon the centuries old authority of the papacy and church tradition, are all treated in this book. You are introduced to the themes of Polish cultural history, basic Catholic theology, and Vatican politics. The book seems well researched. The author delves into many issues covered by previous books on the papacy and refutes previously held ideas.



A strong case is made that this Slavic Pope was largely responsible for the peaceful overthrow of Communism. His support for Poland's Solidarity movement along with his visits to the country helped galvanize resistance to the Moscow backed regime. Indeed, he did employ nonviolent methods as effectively as anyone, but the influence of his role will be analyzed and debated for some time.



Fascinating Personal Insights



Kwitney offers fascinating insights into the personal life of Karol Wojtyla. By age 21 he was orphaned and alone. After working in a factory and dabbling in the theater he decided to enter the priesthood. This decision is presented as a natural step for an introspective and private individual who was not known for forming any romantic relationships with the opposite sex. His personal habits reveal a man of simple tastes who has collected few material goods through his life. Repeatedly he would give away the gifts of clothing from friends and continue wearing the used items to which he was accustomed. He has never had an interest in money or the things money can buy. A bishop once told a supporter not to hand then Cardinal Wojtyla any money, which would have gone to some other cause, because he would not know what to do with it.



His ability to do two things at once is legendary. While listening to lectures or after dinner conversation his habit would be to read a book or sort through a pile of correspondence. Afterwards, he would always be able to sum up what was said around him.



Pope John Paul II has a reputation of being a mystic. This is well known and documented. Following the attempt on his life in 1981 he attributed his safety to the Virgin Mary, whom he has always venerated with special regard. Interestingly, the date of this shooting came on the anniversary, May 13, of the 1917 appearance of the virgin to three shepherd girls in Fatima. An early influence in this area came from a monk named Padre Pio whose stories claimed personal contact with God and the devil. He claimed supernatural powers that included exorcism and healing of disease.



At the height of his fame a multi-million dollar tourist industry sprung up around his home monastery, San Giovanni Rotondo, near the city of Foggia. Pio claimed to literally wrestle in the night with demons that would strip him naked and beat him. In 1947, as a seminary student in Rome, Karol Wojtyla began to visit this strange monk. He became a devoted adherent and formed with the monk the "strangest relationship of his life." Wojtyla even asked him to pray for a friend who had been diagnosed with cancer. The friend was "instantaneously cured" according to the future Pope. To a fellow Cardinal he confided that "Padre Pio told him he would gain the highest post in the Church" (page 101). Wojtyla thought it meant he might one day be a cardinal.



Impressions of America



In 1969 he made his first visit to North America, visiting most major cities. His opinion was that "the U.S. was greedy and overly commercial, and had come loose from its spiritual moorings" (page 227). John Paul II has always viewed Western, and particularly American culture, as greedy, self-centered, and inherently inhumane. His early trips to the U.S. left him amazed at the wealth of America compared to what he was accustomed to in Poland. His reaction was conditioned by his formative years under both Nazi and Communist rule. His native Poland has suffered great depravation during his lifetime. He has called American society a "culture of death" and thereby alienated himself from a potential audience. It appears he has not been able to fully grasp the nature of American democracy.



In 1976 as Cardinal of Krakow, Wojtyla led Pope Paul VI and other Vatican officials on a spiritual retreat. He gave 22 lectures grouped under the heading "Sign of Contradiction." Among the themes he developed were the birth of the new man, and talks about science as a common ground for all religions. He introduced an idea he would pursue into his papacy. He said the Bible was "the key to understanding today's world.... I think it is true that today one cannot understand either Sartre or Marx without having first read and pondered very deeply the first three chapters of Genesis." He dwelt on the temptations of Adam and Eve by the serpent, which for him became a real devil. These are interesting concepts for a future Pope to be teaching a sitting Pope.



His Vision for the Future



Particular attention is paid to the Pope's efforts at ecumenism. In December 1983 he became the first Pope to preach in a Lutheran church. In his sermon he took a giant step toward rehabilitating the monk who broke with Rome. He said, "He could see from afar the dawn of the restoration of our unity." John Paul hopes to live to the year 2000, during which he plans to visit the places on the road taken by the people of God of the Old Covenant, starting from the places associated with Abraham and Moses, through Egypt as far as Damascus, the city that witnessed the conversion of Paul. He dreams of convening a meeting of leaders of the major world faiths on Mount Sinai "to work together to give our world a more metaphysical dimension" (page 673).



This Pope has gone to extraordinary lengths to promote the unity of all faiths. While not all his overtures have been reciprocated, he has persisted in establishing dialogue and holding meetings with other faiths in an attempt to heal the breaches. In the encyclical Ut Unum Sint(That All May Be One), he called ecumenism "a dialogue of conversion, and went on to hint at a desire to "find a way of exercising the primacy [referring to the papal office] while in no way renouncing what is essential to its mission, [but] nonetheless [be] open to a new situation" (page 673).



The book concludes with a bleak perspective of the church and the world. Statistics on abortion and morality and a declining aging leadership within Catholicism have the pope "praying that the year 2000 will bring a second miracle." WNP

.

Real Sailors and Genuine Christians

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.

Real Sailors and Genuine Christians

article by John Elliott





Are you the “real deal,” or merely a wannabe?







Source: Clipart.comStepping aboard his 24-foot sailboat, Robin Graham sailed away from waving parents at the Port of Los Angeles and slowly became a speck in an endless landscape of white-capped waves and deep blue ocean swells. It was his 16th birthday the day he plunged through a world in which everything rose, twisted, turned, leaned and fell, constantly, day and night. His record-breaking ocean voyage circumnavigated the perilous globe and was unique in all of history.



Meanwhile, north of Los Angeles, another 16-year-old studied ocean sailing in a class taught by a certified U.S. Coast Guard instructor. That teen poured over coastal waterway charts in a class that analyzed their ciphered depictions of shorelines, depths, navigational aids, hazards, latitude, longitude, restricted zones, navigational aids, compass adjustments, currents, and endless rules. The boy plotted imaginary courses using headings and bearings adjusted for obstacles, sea-lanes, currents, tides, and wind direction. In time, the class’ sailing knowledge was tested and he was officially “certified” in marine sailing.



Earlier in your life, you became intrigued with Christianity. You heard from others what it was like and desired to learn more. You were educated through teaching and you studied until you became a “certified” Christian at baptism. Since then, you have been taught Christian principles and instructed from God’s Word in preparation for directing a godly course in your life.



2 Timothy:3:15-17[15]And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.[16]All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:[17]That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. says “…and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wisefor salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. (16) All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, (17) that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”(Emphasis added throughout)



Question: Are you a real Christian?

Question: Was the “certified” teenager a real sailor?



The answer to both could be “yes.” In reality, religious people have biblical knowledge, just as the teen had nautical knowledge. Having knowledge of how to sail expertly, and receiving advice from experts, can make one feel as if he is also a competent sailor. But a learner of sailing cannot be compared with one who actually sails the high seas. Similarly, a learner of God’s Word may feel godly, but he cannot be compared with one who actually lives by every Word of God (Luke:4:4And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.).



Reading biblical admonitions and hearing sermons about love and serving can make one feel like he is growing in them. Associating with genuine Christians and discussing godliness together can also make one feel as if he or she is a genuine Christian. But the truth is that we must each diligently work to show ourselves approved by God (2 Timothy:2:15Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.) and to work out our own salvation with deep reverence and trembling in fear of making grave errors (Philippians 2:12). Similarly, every sailor must chart and actually sail his personal course across a treacherous ocean with deep respect for the potential grave upon which he sails. As with sailors, it is also with Christians – the lack of tested experience can lead to disaster. “This charge I commit unto you…that thou by them mightest war a good warfare; (19) Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck”(1 Timothy:1:18-19[18]This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare;[19]Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: KJV).



Real Sailors

The sunny afternoon was cut by a chilly breeze sweeping the deck of the 31-foot sailboat on its nearly silent voyage passing below the twin towers of the World Trade Center and on to the Statue of Liberty. The “certified,” “instructed,” and twice-sailed man was briefly invited to steer the sleek 31-foot sailboat and for those five minutes of the two-hour cruise, he was the pilot steering its course. The feel of the tiller, the tautness of the sails and the ambiance of Manhattan Island renewed sailing as his beloved sport-of-sports once again. The wind in the sails made him feel good to be a sailor again.



Does knowing that you have God’s Holy Spirit give you confidence of being a genuine Christian? Does being called to be a son or daughter of God assure you of being in the Body of Christ? Does knowing that God will never leave or forsake you provide you with security of your resurrection at the seventh Trumpet? If you re-read those questions, you may notice that all of their components are merely things God does to prepare you to act. Yet, their mere presence can give a false sense of spirituality, even before any use of them has yet occurred. An important question we might ask is, “Do I feel like a Christian, or am I living a Christ-like life?” Experience is expected to follow knowledge as you use godly education and apply biblical teaching to actual hands-on deeds of service in everyday life.



You are a Christian and you are holy because Christ purchased you with His blood. At your baptism, He forgives your sins and hallows you with his Holy Spirit. That state comprises your starting point. Jesus gave us the Parable of the Talents (i.e., Holy Spirit) to show God’s intent for us to move beyond being just “certified” as holy children and “educated” in godliness (Matthew:25:14-28[14]For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.[15]And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.[16]Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.[17]And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.[18]But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.[19]After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.[20]And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.[21]His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.[22]He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.[23]His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.[24]Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed:[25]And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.[26]His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed:[27]Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.[28]Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.). He next describes His responsibility of saving only the serving “sheep” from among un-thoughtful “goats.” Christ must assess your character by the experience you have gained from using His Spirit to perform godliness in every imaginable situation (Matthew:25:35-36[35]For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:[36]Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.). His selection will involve a quality and degree of experience gained in the living of Christianity. Matthew:25:29For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath., “For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.”



After some 45 years of being associated with sailing, I could easily walk back into the Lincoln Harbor Yacht Club in New York City and say, “Sir, I would like to rent your 31-foot sailboat.” Its owner would certainly ask, “Who are you?” I would answer, “I’m a sailor.” He would reply, “I don’t know you, what boats have you been sailing?” I could inform him that at age 16 I took an official ocean sailing course (inside an office building). And at age 36, my brother demonstrated for me how to trim a sail and how to tack into the wind. And then how I had managed to rent a 25’ sailboat, twice! I could surprise him with, “I have even sailed before on your 31’ sailboat, and the pilot let me steer it.”



“Son,” he would say, “that does not make you a sailor. Our sailors have spent years training with instructors, growing their skills in the sailboat’s systems, operations, performance, structural limitations, maintenance, emergency procedures, river and ocean currents, tacking, marine navigation, and following all the federal and state navigation laws. Meanwhile, what have you been doing?”



I could plead, “Well, I read Robin Graham’s book The Dove, and I’ve spoken with sailors from the high seas, and I would have taken up sailing many years ago, except it was inconvenient, expensive, and time consuming.” He would shake his head and sigh, “But, you didn’t actually get around to sailing yourself.”



“But, I love sailing, and I know how,” I would plead! All he could honestly say would be, “Please leave. We only rent to real sailors.”



Similarly, Christ has the responsibility of assigning leadership positions in the Kingdom to only real Christians. Luke:13:25-27[25]When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:[26]Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.[27]But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity., “… you begin to stand outside and knock at the door, saying, 'Lord, Lord, open for us,' and He will answer and say to you, 'I do not know you, where you are from,' (26) then you will begin to say, 'We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets.' (27) But He will say, 'I tell you I do not know you, where you are from. Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity.'”



Perhaps you and I are not counted among true ocean sailors. There are some activities we like to experience vicariously and enjoy them in a casual association. However, we need to insure that we are indeed genuine Christians, living Christ-like lives of service. Those judged so will be counted worthy of God’s Kingdom. 2 Thessalonians:1:5Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:, “…the righteous judgment of God, that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God…”



For more reading on being a genuine Christian, request the booklets: You Can Have Living Faith and Transforming Your Life: The Process of Conversion.

.

Mary A Woman of Faith

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.


Mary A Woman of Faith


article by Robert Berendt





There are many remarkable events that have taken place in the history of mankind—and many remarkable people involved in these events.



Perhaps the greatest events in human history were the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. One of the most remarkable people involved was a young woman named Mary. God chose this young woman to bear His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. He chose carefully and wisely. Mary had the qualities of character and genetic background that God was seeking. She had the highest standards of personal behavior and of devotion to God and His way of life.



Mary was most likely a teenager when she was engaged to Joseph. Both of them were descendants of King David, though they were not considered among the aristocrats of Israel. Mary was related to Elizabeth, the wife of the priest, Zacharias. Very little is said about Mary’s childhood or outlook on religion. She appears suddenly in scripture as the one God selected to bear and give birth to Jesus Christ.



Luke:1:26-28[26]And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,[27]To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.[28]And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. records that Mary was a virgin who was betrothed to Joseph. Unlike our custom of an engagement, a betrothal was a legally binding commitment to marriage, confirmed by an oath. The angel addressed Mary as “highly favored” and said, “the Lord is with you.” The angel went on to explain what was to happen—Mary knowing that if she was found to be pregnant before marriage, she could be put to death. Her answer is an inspiration to us all. Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word” (Luke:1:38And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.). She did not just remain silent as though she had no control. Mary said, “Yes!”



Her answer reflected unconditional faith towards God. It reflected the complete trust that God requires of those He chooses. It was similar to the trust Abraham showed when God tested him with the requested sacrifice of Isaac (Genesis:22:2And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.). God did not reveal all that He had in mind for Abraham, and He did not reveal the future in all its detail to Mary. At the presentation of Jesus before God, a righteous old man was inspired to tell Mary that Jesus had a great destiny to fulfill and that a sword would pierce her soul (Luke:2:25And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him., 35). What could all of this mean? Mary and Joseph “marveled” (Luke:2:33And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.) at these words. Mary treasured each event and word in her heart (Luke:2:51And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.), but did not question what God had planned.



Trusting in God

Mary likely did not expect that Jesus would be born in Bethlehem, or that she and Joseph would have to flee to Egypt. She experienced some wonderful things during the pregnancy and birth, but the true purpose of Jesus’ life and the events that would change the course of the world were hidden from her. She did not expect to be standing at the foot of the cross and watching her Son die a horrible death. It was only later that she, too, knew Jesus’ true identity and purpose. God did not have to ask Mary for her continued obedience; He knew she was committed and the answer would always be, “Yes.”



Mary and Joseph continued on with their lives. Joseph was the father of their other children. God made all the necessary arrangements for the birth of Jesus and the flight to Egypt. He brought the Magi to visit and bring the gifts for Joseph and Mary. Matthew:2:13-15[13]And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.[14]When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:[15]And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son. are revealing verses. Here we see that Joseph too was obedient to God and aware that something from God was happening in his life. God sent an angel during a vision or dream Joseph had—and gave the instructions to go to Egypt. Mary was part of the complete plan and package. Their attitude of obedience to God was impressive. There was no jealousy when God gave the visions to Joseph. Mary accepted that and had no doubts. Matthew:2:19-23[19]But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,[20]Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life.[21]And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel.[22]But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee:[23]And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene. tells of God once again giving Joseph instructions as to when to leave Egypt and where to live in Judea. Nazareth was in God’s plan, not theirs.



Following Christ

John:2:1-11[1]And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there:[2]And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.[3]And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.[4]Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.[5]His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.[6]And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.[7]Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.[8]And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it.[9]When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom,[10]And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.[11]This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him. helps us understand the relationship between Jesus and Mary. It is obvious that Jesus loved His mother, and she respected Him. When there was a shortage of wine and Mary asked her son to do something about it, Jesus replied, “My hour has not yet come” (John:2:4Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.). Mary knew Jesus was more than just a little unusual, but God did not show Mary every detail of the future. By now, Mary too had been strengthened in her continued trust in God. Now she realized that the scriptures were being fulfilled by Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem and their life in Nazareth. As time passed and Jesus became more visible in Judea, Mary remained involved.



John:2:12-13[12]After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days.[13]And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. show that Mary and Jesus’ brothers traveled from Cana to Capernaum with Jesus and the disciples. There was nothing unusual about this. Luke:8:1And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him, reveals that Jesus traveled from town to town. When we see Mary and Jesus’ brothers coming to see Him, we need to realize that at a time when communication was long and slow compared to today, it would have been difficult to find out where Jesus was unless He kept in constant contact with His family. (Joseph is not mentioned at all—it is possible that he had died by this time.) When Jesus was informed that his mother and brothers were outside, He continued to do the work of God. Jesus said, “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put in into practice” (Luke:8:21And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it., New International Version). That was not a criticism of Mary or of His brothers. Mary was one who showed, through all of her actions, that she served God gladly and willingly.



John:19:25Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. begins to record the final events of Jesus’ life. This was the moment that Mary had known was coming—when the metaphorical sword would pierce her, as Simeon had prophesied (Luke:2:35(Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.). The fact that Mary was there attests to her frequent presence at all Jesus did. She was devoted to God and growing in the comprehension of the greatness of the moment. Indeed, only a parent can feel the pain Mary felt for her son in those final hours. This too was an event for which she was not prepared. As all unfolded, it would become clear that this too was in the plan of God. Mary accepted that part of the plan just as she had accepted her role from that moment when God first reached out to her. The words of Jesus reflect care and tenderness.



All the mysterious sayings she had treasured in her memory over the years were becoming clearer. There can be little doubt that Jesus’ mother was involved in the burial of her Son, and that she was among the women who came to the tomb early that morning long ago (Luke:24:9-10[9]And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.[10]It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles.). John was the disciple who was destined to live the longest, and the one to whom Jesus entrusted His mother (John:19:26-27[26]When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son![27]Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.). God looked after every facet and part of the life of His chosen and highly favored vessel, Mary. Her attitude was, “Thy will be done.” Although Mary then fades from the pages of the Bible, she will not fade from God’s favor—or the future He will give to her.



Further reading

To learn more about the life of Jesus, read our booklet, Jesus Christ: The Real Story.

.

Are You Worried About the Economy?

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.

Are You Worried About the Economy?


A commentary by Michael Snyder




Personal and national fears, anxiety and anger skyrocketed over the past few weeks as American politicians fell to verbal blows.





The National Debt Clock in New York City as seen on August 8, 2011. This digital billboard displays the increasing US debt.

Source: Jesse KuczynskiWhat's the source of this conflict? Whether to extend U.S. debt limits, cut spending and raise taxes. A Congressional compromise was barely reached in time, but many still fear that we're slipping back into global recession. The numbers of joblessness and debt are so large that they disorient our senses. How does this make you feel? Is the tottering economy keeping you up at night? Millions are having their share of sleepless times, but you don't need to join them.



Experts agree that the past decade of mind-numbing bust and boom, greed and fiscal gluttony has left consumers and investors alike with all-time record low levels of trust. Until trust levels rise and confidence begins to return, the threat of a double-dip recession remains. Given this, what are we supposed to do? Perhaps surprisingly, we all have our roles—even you right now can play a surprisingly positive part.



What can you do? Turn to God

For thousands of years, the answer to this question has lain before us. Even though the numbers are all-but-unimaginable, large-scale crisis of political and financial origin are scarcely new. Humans from every walk of life have faced deep crises before, and they will face them again.



Any crisis or challenge—even ones as global as we see today—generally includes some element of consequence. Many challenges or crises are largely self-inflicted. Clearly much of the global crisis that engulfed the planet over the past few years was the direct result of unchecked greed. Too many people tried to get rich at the expense of others, and the system failed.



The Bible, which chronicles human behavior according to the standards of a living God, shows time and time again that God allows trials to befall us to get our attention. If viewed properly, trials teach us wisdom and fashion within us precious godly character. They teach us to seek God, depend on Him for strength and answers, change to match His ways, and to be grateful for the many blessings that we receive. When we do this, we don't have to worry about the economy, whether local or global.



The apostle Paul—a man of God who had his own share of trials and challenges—urges us to turn our lives completely over to God, to offer ourselves totally and humbly as "living sacrifices" (Romans:12:1I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service., New International Version). In doing so, we can find out what God's divine will is for this planet and for ourselves (verse 2).



And once we find out what God's will is for us, if we change and align ourselves with that powerful and loving will, we have nothing to fear. The Bible teaches and experience confirms that people who are yielded fully to God's will and have set themselves in motion to do it—these people experience a level of emotional and mental serenity that defies description. This active and living commitment produces a literal peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:7).



Trust in God is the antidote for worry

For those worried about the economy, worried about their jobs or worried about what they may wear or eat, Jesus offered specific advice. As He told his followers—which includes us today—"Do not worry about your life" (Luke:12:22And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.). He magnified this by reminding us of our limited power: "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?" (verses 25-26, emphasis added). Adding an hour of our individual lives is a big thing for humans. In fact, it's impossible! But for an all-powerful God, it's a "very little thing."



The point? If we're aligned with God's will and seeking to do it, God will take care of us. Concerning the physical things of this life, Jesus tells us that God the Father "knows that you need them" (verse 30). If our priorities are straight, then we have nothing to fear. As Jesus concluded in this passage: "But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well" (verse 31).



Are you still worried about the economy? Lots of people are. But if we are seeking the means to be of service, of learning of and then furthering God's will, we have unbreakable spiritual promises to rely on. You don't have to worry about the economy. As Paul instructs us today, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6, NIV).



If we do this properly, even in the midst of global financial uncertainty and turmoil, we have this mighty promise: "My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). So stop worrying and start yielding to a God who loves you and cares for you!



Want to know more about how to seek and learn what God's will is for you? Request or download the free booklets, What is Your Destiny? and Transforming Your Life: The Process of Conversion. Both are free to you without obligation, and the return on your investment of time will surprise you.

.

What Will Your Response Be?

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.

What Will Your Response Be?


A blog post by Aaron Booth




Source: Photos.com"If you repent, I will restore you…" (Jeremiah:15:19Therefore thus saith the LORD, If thou return, then will I bring thee again, and thou shalt stand before me: and if thou take forth the precious from the vile, thou shalt be as my mouth: let them return unto thee; but return not thou unto them.).



There is no doubt that the United States is experiencing a time of anguish. So much of the news reflects on economic woes and national troubles that seem to have no end or solutions. No matter what is decided in our nation's capital - there seems to be no good answer to the problem our nation is facing.



Our nation's leaders are searching for answers. The governor of Texas, Rick Perry, is calling for a day of prayer and fasting on Saturday, August 6, 2011. A big event called the "The Response" is being held in Houston to encourage people to ask God to intervene in our country's struggles. But will this help our nation in crisis?



Personally, you might be facing troubles of your own. Your finances might be stressed. Your health might be failing. Your marriage might be on the line of divorce. The thoughts overwhelm you as you wrestle in not knowing a solution to the personal difficulties you face.



You, America and the entire world needs a restoration. This is not a solution that comes from us but from our loving and merciful Father. The prophet Joel gave a strong warning message to ancient Israel (the same message can apply to us today) to "rend your heart" and "return to the Lord with your heart…that He may turn and have pity" and prevent further "calamities". (I would encourage you to read the whole book of Joel for the entire story.)



The only solution for the woes, problems, difficulties, turmoil (you choose the word) for the United States and you personally - is to humble yourself before God in fasting and prayer - and seek His forgiveness. This is called repentance - and it’s a start in turning your life around and making the relationship with God a number one priority. Can a nation change its ways? Yes. Read in the Bible how God spared Nineveh's destruction because the people turned from their evil ways (Jonah 3).



Don't wait for solutions to come from your government, leaders, friends, a religious revival - whoever. Start with the solution yourself. Follow the example of the apostle Paul when he wrote, "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret…"(2 Corinthians:7:10For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.)



What will your response be?



If you are just starting to learn about prayer, fasting, humility and repentance - please read the related resources below or featured Bible Study aid booklets.







--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

U.S. Debt Dilemma - How Will It End?

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.

U.S. Debt Dilemma - How Will It End?


A commentary by Larry Walker

Posted August 4, 2011





As a worried world watches, an all-out partisan political battle rages regarding the debt dilemma that threatens financial disaster for this nation and could send shock waves throughout the world. Because financial markets are all affected by the economic situations of other nations in the current global marketplace, other nations face major repercussions if the federal debt crisis is not successfully resolved.





Source: Photos.comAlthough economics in this complex world may seem very complicated and beyond the average citizen's ability to understand, the causes of the current financial problems faced by the United States are actually quite simple. In fact the same basic financial principles that apply in the lives of average citizens also apply to federal and state governments. In order to remain financially solvent, it is necessary to take in more money than is spent. As the catchy one-liner suggests, "Unless your income exceeds your outgo, your upkeep will be your downfall."



This fundamental economic principle is true for any and all institutions, large and small. Of course the federal government can get by longer than individuals by borrowing more money, printing more currency or issuing treasury bonds. But eventually the imbalance will take its toll.



Hard choices facing congress

The choices faced by Congress are limited and problematic. In order to pay its bills, the federal government needs congressional approval to increase the national debt limit. However, that is like blowing up a balloon that is already dangerously close to bursting.



The alternative would result in default—inability to pay some of its bills—that would lower the nation's credit rating. So the partisan battle rages over the debt limit increase and which benefits to cut, as well as whether or how much to increase taxes in order to move toward a balanced budget. The increased debt limit, while temporarily forestalling disaster, is only like putting a small bandage on a gaping wound.



Since elected officials are at the mercy of voters, their political survival depends on pleasing their constituents. So politicians typically dangle lofty promises of reduced taxes and increased benefits in their quest to win voter support during election campaigns. In simple terms that means reducing government income and increasing expenditures—the very opposite of what is needed to balance the budget and reduce the federal debt.



Human nature—the root of the problem

But raising taxes and cutting benefits collides head-on with the innate desire of citizens to get more and give less. Some may voice support for the concept of balancing the budget and reducing the federal debt, but only so long as the cuts are made in budget areas that don't affect their lifestyle.



I have never forgotten a folksy nugget of truth that I learned from a college economics professor many years ago: "God helps those who help themselves, so take plenty." The simple play on words lends a touch of humor to an otherwise serious and sobering reality that forms the basis of most of mankind's problems—what might be simply expressed as "the way of get" that characterizes human nature.



So the actions that President Obama and Congress have decided on are at best stop-gap measures, and the nation's economic woes will continue so long as human nature remains unabated.



God's plan for economic success and prosperity

Thankfully, God has a plan for international economic recovery that is outlined in the pages of your Bible. The gospel of the Kingdom of God speaks of the return of Jesus Christ as King of Kings and Lord of Lords to usher in 1,000 years of peace and prosperity. That plan includes a provision to change human nature from the way of get to the way of giving and sharing.



More information available to you

To learn more about that plan and what it can mean for you, be sure to request or download our free booklet, The Gospel of the Kingdom. I also encourage you to register now for our free Kingdom of God Bible Seminar on this vital topic, coming soon to a city near you.



We also offer practical information and help for your personal finances at no cost in our booklet, Managing Your Finances.

.

The Good Shepherd of Prophecy

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.

The Good Shepherd of Prophecy


article by Robin Webber





Recently, I had one of those sleepless nights in which I was wide awake, staring into darkness, with seemingly tons of thought pressing on me.







Source: Photos.comMy mind was whirling on overdrive with all gears greased with worry. I’m sure we’ve all shared that common pillow of despair. Sometimes when people reach this point of sleepless frustration, they commence with the well-known exercise of “counting sheep,” imagining one after another bounding over the pasture fence. But there’s a better way to peaceful slumber.



Long ago, I learned something in the still of the night. I stopped counting sheep and focused on the Shepherd! It was that simple and yet that profound. I began to simply repeat the 23rd Psalm with its opening line that centered my thoughts: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want”—that is, “not lack.” What a difference! Everything else melted into insignificance.



Stay focused on Him

Just like a restless night’s sleep, this wayward age of man with its 24-hour news cycle of despair can disturb our spiritual life’s rhythms and “do a number on us” if we don’t keep “looking unto Jesus. . . the great Shepherd of the sheep” (Hebrews:12:2Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.; 13:20), also called “the Chief Shepherd” (1 Peter:5:4And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.). Make no mistake about it. Where and on whom you focus makes all the difference when it comes to meaningful outcomes.



And we might as well get a head start before matters heat up even more. The book of Daniel and Jesus Christ, the ultimate foreteller of future events, both prophesied a time of coming worldwide trouble that will be the worst ever—imperiling all life on earth (Daniel:12:1And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.; Matthew:24:21-22[21]For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.[22]And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.). Now reading such prophecy without proper perspective from the whole of God’s Word could keep you wide awake for multiple nights on end. Again, right focus is essential.



Let’s be honest and recognize that, as students of the Scriptures, while peering into prophecy we can become sidetracked with numerous items that seem to be sure-cure fixes to calm our hearts. Sadly, some sincere folks spend countless hours diligently going over and over (just like counting sheep) the study of some obscure biblical personality, place name or time sequence to somehow assure themselves that they can rest at night—because they know something no one else is privy to except them and, in their mind, God.



One problem though: God sees matters differently! Some things just can’t be known at a given time—being reserved to God alone (compare Acts:1:6-7[6]When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?[7]And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.). Moreover, Jesus criticized those who focused on smaller issues while ignoring “weightier” or more important spiritual matters (Matthew:23:23Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.; Luke:11:42But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.). The apostle Paul warned Christians regarding such issues as “endless genealogies, which cause disputes rather than godly edification which is in faith” (1 Timothy:1:4Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.).



To be frank: Those who are always pursuing the arcane and unknowable will always remain spiritually exhausted and exhausting to others. They have not settled for the true peace that comes by centering on the Chief Shepherd, the Good Shepherd of prophecy, Jesus Christ—but, rather, have settled for a substitute gospel of esoteric biblical conjecture.



Christ in the midst

As students of the gospel, our proper prophetic focus needs to center where the Bible clearly and loudly focuses, directing our attention to the Shepherd in whom we shall not be in want. Have you ever considered how the book of Revelation opens with this centering narrative? “. . . And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the seven lampstands One like the Son of Man” (1:12-13). These lampstands represent “the seven churches” (verse 20), seven signifying completeness and thus the totality of God’s Church. And in the imagery here we discover Jesus Christ in the midst of His Church down through the ages. A central and centering figure, He dominates the prophetic landscape. Christ is figuratively revealed as no stranger to His flock and is not distanced from His followers even when it might seem darkest in our lives.



The recorder of this revelation, the apostle John, in another of his writings presents this self-disclosing statement of Jesus: “I am the good shepherd; and I know my sheep, and am known by My own. As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep” (John:10:14-15[14]I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.[15]As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.). This proclamation introduces the sacrificial key that unlocks the prophetic realm of Revelation, as the Good Shepherd is extolled in the heavenly realm with these words: “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God” (5:9, English Standard Version). His sufficiency is without question, and His provision for those He loves is met with one answer: “I died for you.”



What is fascinating with the fullness of scriptural revelation is that Jesus Christ is simultaneously the “Good Shepherd” and the “Lamb” of God (mentioned 27 times in Revelation). He understands both the role of guide and follower. In Him, they become one. He is indeed a Shepherd in whom we shall not want or lack.



The beloved 23rd Psalm is meant for more than word filler in funeral folders. It’s offered as a guide to our day-by-day walk into the future—in both the succeeding chapters of our personal lives and the unfolding tapestry of prophecy. Written by King David, who had worked as a shepherd in his youth, the psalm presents life as a follower of the ultimate Shepherd.



As we center on the Good Shepherd in whom we “shall not want” (verse 1), we are immediately reminded that He directs and enables us “to lie down in green pastures” (verse 2). Thus, our faith in Him is immediately challenged by whether we will obey His direction. With the Shepherd’s help, we respond by faith-filled action to “lie down” where He sets us to feed and grow spiritually. I’ll be the first to admit that “spiritual green pasture” doesn’t always match our human color charts. Our circumstances don’t always look so lush. But the Shepherd knows what is best for us.



Psalm 23 then mentions that He leads us “beside the still waters” (still verse 2). Drinking in of the “waters” of God’s Spirit and Word quenches our spiritual thirst and clears up our thinking (see John:7:37-39[37]In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.[38]He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.[39](But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.); Ephesians:5:26That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,). Taking in of God’s mind and what is written in Scripture gives us continuing assurance, beyond personal anxiety or global trepidations, that God’s purpose, plan, promises and provisions are true and right on schedule—His schedule!



Like scattered sheep, the flock of God can become spiritually disoriented by fear of predators, tension with other sheep, or hunger. God’s Word says: Trust where I place you and enjoy the still waters. It is only then that you can “be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm:46:10Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.).



Restoration: now and ever

The next famous phrase in Psalm 23 describes how the Good Shepherd “restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake” (verse 3). Sheep are creatures of habit, and if not properly led they will turn good ground into ruts and turn pastures into deserts by overstaying their welcome—and they will pollute the ground beneath them with their own waste. The most important function of a shepherd is to keep the flock on the move!



Sometimes as sheep we forget this. We don’t like the new path, or we stare at the sheep rather than focusing on the Shepherd and bolt. It’s here we’re reminded that the spiritual walk is not a quick escalator ride to salvation, but at times has detours of our own making. Yet we have a faithful Shepherd who restores us on course and puts us back on the path of His choosing. Restoration is not marginal to the Christian experience but central. What Christ told Peter just before he was to veer from the right path for a while, confident in “when you have returned to Me” (Luke:22:32But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.), should echo down to us today.



Jesus was always blatantly honest, then as now, as to where the path might lead. He never said the journey would be easy, but He did promise it would be worth it. Acts:14:22Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. echoes, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.” Psalm 23 bluntly describes periods of our own walk with God as well as the forward motion of the Church down through the ages: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over” (verses 4-5).



It is noteworthy that Jesus never said that “evil” would not be visited upon His followers or the Church as a whole. But as the psalm encourages, we need not fear it. What Jesus did say is: “I will build My church, and the gates of Hades [the grave] shall not prevail against it” (Matthew:16:18And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.). Take a careful look at this verse! The ultimate fulfillment of prophecy is not a church on the run, but the doors of Hades, death itself, being broken down and surrendering its grip on us.



The living Christ, at the right hand of the Father on high, shepherds and rallies His elect, proclaiming: “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death” (Revelation:1:17-18). The Good Shepherd of prophecy has traversed both life and death and emerged triumphant!



And yet, despite knowing this, the knees of our heart can get a little wobbly along the way. Consider, please: When His precious flock is on the move down the path of history, it is here that the Great Shepherd is at His most intense and intimate best in guiding the flock over challenging terrain to the good pasture He has already gone ahead to prepare.



It is here in “the valley of the shadow of death” that the cry of the sheep down through the ages can be heard echoing through the canyons of time: “How long, O Lord. . . ?” (Revelation:6:10). It is here that the flock must know that the Shepherd it follows never sleeps (Psalm:121:4Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.). He is dedicated to preserving all who would follow Him into the abyss of darkness. Of His sheep who hear His voice, He declares: “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. . . And no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand” (John:10:27-29[27]My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:[28]And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.[29]My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.).



“I am with you always”

Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd of prophecy, is guiding His flock through the winding twists of history and prophecy to one ultimate destination—the great culmination at “the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power” (1 Corinthians:15:24Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.). This unique moment in time, as time itself passes away and melts into eternity, is the sublime experience we are being led forward to. It will fulfill the grand crescendo of the 23rd Psalm’s final words: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (verse 6).



We still have some paths to walk down and valleys to pass through in the seasons of our personal lives, along with the unfolding chapters of prophecy. I don’t know how long the journey is, but I know what’s been promised if we stay on the trail and stay focused on the Good Shepherd of prophecy. As we do, let’s remember that the will of God will never lead you to where the grace of God cannot keep you. The encouraging directive of, “This is the way, walk in it” (Isaiah:30:21And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.) is refortified in the sureness of the Chief Shepherd’s promises. “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” He said (John:14:6Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.). “And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew:28:20Teaching 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.).



The remedy for those sleepless nights is right here. “For so He gives His beloved sleep” (Psalm:127:2It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.). Sleep tight!

.

From Empire to Exile

From http://el-paso.ucg.org/  or call 1-888-886-8632.

From Empire to Exile


God's desire for Israel to be a model nation carried with it grave responsibilities.



"But it shall come to pass, if you do not obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you..." (Deuteronomy:28:15But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee:).



God's desire for Israel to be a model nation carried with it grave responsibilities. God had no intention of allowing Israel—the nation He created to be the world's model of righteousness—to escape the consequences of abandoning His ways and sinking to the level of the surrounding nations.



Before they entered the Promised Land, God had specifically warned the Israelites to make no alliances with any nations worshipping false gods: "You shall make no covenant with them, nor with their gods ... lest they make you sin against Me. For if you serve their gods, it will surely be a snare to you" (Exodus:23:32-33[32]Thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor with their gods.[33]They shall not dwell in thy land, lest they make thee sin against me: for if thou serve their gods, it will surely be a snare unto thee.).



For the same reasons, He told them not to intermarry with the surrounding nations: "Nor shall you make marriages with them. You shall not give your daughter to their son, nor take their daughter for your son. For they will turn your sons away from following Me, to serve other gods; so the anger of the LORD will be aroused against you and destroy you suddenly" (Deuteronomy:7:3-4[3]Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.[4]For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly.).



Solomon ignored both commands. First he made a treaty with the Pharaoh of Egypt that he sealed by accepting Pharaoh's daughter in marriage (1 Kings:3:1And Solomon made affinity with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh's daughter, and brought her into the city of David, until he had made an end of building his own house, and the house of the LORD, and the wall of Jerusalem round about.). Also, "there was peace between Hiram [king of Tyre] and Solomon, and the two of them made a treaty together" (1 Kings:5:12And the LORD gave Solomon wisdom, as he promised him: and there was peace between Hiram and Solomon; and they two made a league together.).



At the beginning of his reign Solomon loved God and simply followed in the footsteps of his father David. At that time God appeared to Solomon in a dream and said: "Ask! What shall I give you?" (1 Kings:3:5In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.).



In his dream Solomon made a wise choice. He asked for an understanding heart so he could properly fulfill his kingly responsibility to render just judgment for his people. Through his dream Solomon perceived that God was pleased with his humble, unselfish attitude. God then promised not only to give what he requested, but also riches, honor and long life, provided that Solomon would continue to live within the terms of Israel's covenant with God.



Shortly after Solomon completed and dedicated the temple, God appeared in a dream a second time to him. "I have heard your prayer and your supplication that you have made before Me; I have sanctified this house which you have built to put My name there forever, and My eyes and My heart will be there perpetually" (1 Kings:9:3And the LORD said unto him, I have heard thy prayer and thy supplication, that thou hast made before me: I have hallowed this house, which thou hast built, to put my name there for ever; and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually.).



God then conditionally promised to Solomon to establish the throne of his dynasty over the people of Israel living in their Promised Land forever. In case Solomon were to fail to follow God with integrity, God explained the consequences.



"If you or your sons turn away from me and do not observe the commands and decrees I have given you and go off to serve other gods and worship them, then I will cut off Israel from the land I have given them and will reject this temple I have consecrated for my Name. Israel will then become a byword and an object of ridicule among all peoples" (verses 6-7, NIV).



Solomon's example corrupts the nation



God not only prohibited a king of Israel from marrying pagans, but He specifically forbade him to "multiply wives for himself," as was customary among gentile rulers (Deuteronomy:17:17Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold.). Solomon made this deadly mistake.



"But King Solomon loved many foreign women, as well as the daughter of Pharaoh: women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Sidonians, and Hittites—from the nations of whom the LORD had said to the children of Israel, 'You shall not intermarry with them, nor they with you. Surely they will turn away your hearts after their gods.' Solomon clung to these in love" (1 Kings:11:1-2[1]But king Solomon loved many strange women, together with the daughter of Pharaoh, women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Zidonians, and Hittites:[2]Of the nations concerning which the LORD said unto the children of Israel, Ye shall not go in to them, neither shall they come in unto you: for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods: Solomon clave unto these in love.).



"For it was so, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned his heart after other gods ... Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites ... Solomon built a high place for Chemosh the abomination of Moab ... and for Molech the abomination of the people of Ammon. And he did likewise for all his foreign wives, who burned incense and sacrificed to their gods.



"So the LORD became angry with Solomon, because his heart had turned from the LORD God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice...Therefore the LORD said to Solomon, 'Because you have done this, and have not kept My covenant and My statutes, which I have commanded you, I will surely tear the kingdom away from you and give it to your servant.



"Nevertheless I will not do it in your days, for the sake of your father David; but I will tear it out of the hand of your son. However I will not tear away the whole kingdom, but I will give one tribe to your son for the sake of my servant David, and for the sake of Jerusalem which I have chosen'" (verses 4-13).



Israel splits into two kingdoms



God was true to His word. By the time Solomon died, about 931 B.C., the tribes occupying the northern part of the nation were discontented with Solomon's heavy taxation and forced-labor practices (1 Kings:4:7And Solomon had twelve officers over all Israel, which provided victuals for the king and his household: each man his month in a year made provision., 22, 26-28; 5:13, 15). When his son Rehoboam came to the throne, the northern tribes petitioned for relief.



Rehoboam asked his counselors for advice. The older men suggested he respond to the petitioners positively, relieving the tax burden and making life better for the average citizen. However, the younger counselors argued that Rehoboam should exercise strong control as an absolute monarch over his kingdom, that he should demand even greater tax revenues. Rehoboam unwisely decided to follow the advice of the younger generation.



The result was predictable. The northern 10 tribes seceded and installed Jeroboam, a former high official under Solomon, as their king just as the prophet Ahijah had foretold years earlier (1 Kings:11:28-40[28]And the man Jeroboam was a mighty man of valour: and Solomon seeing the young man that he was industrious, he made him ruler over all the charge of the house of Joseph.[29]And it came to pass at that time when Jeroboam went out of Jerusalem, that the prophet Ahijah the Shilonite found him in the way; and he had clad himself with a new garment; and they two were alone in the field:[30]And Ahijah caught the new garment that was on him, and rent it in twelve pieces:[31]And he said to Jeroboam, Take thee ten pieces: for thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel, Behold, I will rend the kingdom out of the hand of Solomon, and will give ten tribes to thee:[32](But he shall have one tribe for my servant David's sake, and for Jerusalem's sake, the city which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel:)[33]Because that they have forsaken me, and have worshipped Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, Chemosh the god of the Moabites, and Milcom the god of the children of Ammon, and have not walked in my ways, to do that which is right in mine eyes, and to keep my statutes and my judgments, as did David his father.[34]Howbeit I will not take the whole kingdom out of his hand: but I will make him prince all the days of his life for David my servant's sake, whom I chose, because he kept my commandments and my statutes:[35]But I will take the kingdom out of his son's hand, and will give it unto thee, even ten tribes.[36]And unto his son will I give one tribe, that David my servant may have a light alway before me in Jerusalem, the city which I have chosen me to put my name there.[37]And I will take thee, and thou shalt reign according to all that thy soul desireth, and shalt be king over Israel.[38]And it shall be, if thou wilt hearken unto all that I command thee, and wilt walk in my ways, and do that is right in my sight, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as David my servant did; that I will be with thee, and build thee a sure house, as I built for David, and will give Israel unto thee.[39]And I will for this afflict the seed of David, but not for ever.[40]Solomon sought therefore to kill Jeroboam. And Jeroboam arose, and fled into Egypt, unto Shishak king of Egypt, and was in Egypt until the death of Solomon.; 12:20). Only the tribes of Judah and Benjamin remained loyal to the house of David.



Rehoboam's first reaction was to invade the northern tribes with an army of 180,000 soldiers to attempt to teach the northern tribes a lesson (1 Kings:12:21And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he assembled all the house of Judah, with the tribe of Benjamin, an hundred and fourscore thousand chosen men, which were warriors, to fight against the house of Israel, to bring the kingdom again to Rehoboam the son of Solomon.). But God sent this word to Judah's leadership: "Thus says the LORD: 'You shall not go up nor fight against your brethren the children of Israel. Let every man return to his house, for this thing is from Me.' Therefore they obeyed the word of the LORD, and turned back, according to the word of the LORD" (verse 24). They called off the invasion. The era of a divided kingdom began.



At this point, more than 200 years before the Assyrians conquered the northern 10 tribes, they became separate as the kingdom, or house, of Israel. The southern tribes of Judah, Benjamin and a part of Levi would then be known as the kingdom, or house, of Judah. The scepter promise of a divine king remained with the tribe of Judah.



The northern tribes kept the name of Jacob, or Israel. With them went the birthright promise of national greatness, prosperity and wealth. To them went, by right of birth, the physical blessings and national standing God had promised to Joseph.



From that momentous separation of Israel and Judah, the Bible records a 200-year progression of 10 dynasties, presided over by no fewer than 19 monarchs reigning over the northern kingdom.



God's offer to Jeroboam



When God first sent the prophet Ahijah to inform Jeroboam that he would become the king of the northern tribes, He offered Jeroboam His blessings and the promise of an enduring dynasty. "You shall reign over all your heart desires, and you shall be king over Israel. Then it shall be, if you heed all that I command you, walk in My ways, and do what is right in My sight, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as My servant David did, then I will be with you and build for you an enduring house, as I built for David, and will give Israel to you" (1 Kings:11:37-38[37]And I will take thee, and thou shalt reign according to all that thy soul desireth, and shalt be king over Israel.[38]And it shall be, if thou wilt hearken unto all that I command thee, and wilt walk in my ways, and do that is right in my sight, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as David my servant did; that I will be with thee, and build thee a sure house, as I built for David, and will give Israel unto thee.).



With God's help Jeroboam could have maintained the part of the empire God gave him. But his faith was in what he could see, not in God.



To secure his hold over the whole of his new kingdom, Jeroboam immediately built two capitals for his government at traditionally significant tribal rendezvous points. One was at Shechem, near Nablus in what is today called the West Bank region. The other was at Penuel, east of the Jordan River in modern-day Jordan.



Jeroboam then addressed what he considered a major problem, one that might wrest his kingdom from him. "Then Jeroboam said to himself, 'Now the kingdom may well revert to the house of David. If this people continues to go up to offer sacrifices in the house of the LORD at Jerusalem, the heart of this people will turn again to their master, King Rehoboam of Judah; they will kill me and return to King Rehoboam of Judah'" (1 Kings:12:26-27[26]And Jeroboam said in his heart, Now shall the kingdom return to the house of David:[27]If this people go up to do sacrifice in the house of the LORD at Jerusalem, then shall the heart of this people turn again unto their lord, even unto Rehoboam king of Judah, and they shall kill me, and go again to Rehoboam king of Judah., NRSV).



Jeroboam changes Israel's religion



To prevent such a development Jeroboam established a competing religious system. For political reasons—to maintain his hold on the northern tribes—he changed Israel's forms of worshipping God.



Idolatry had already become popular during the last days of Solomon, so Jeroboam erected his own idols. "Therefore the king asked advice, made two calves of gold, and said to the people, 'It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem. Here are your gods, O Israel, which brought you up from the land of Egypt!' And he set up one in Bethel, and the other he put in Dan" (1 Kings:12:28-29[28]Whereupon the king took counsel, and made two calves of gold, and said unto them, It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem: behold thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.[29]And he set the one in Bethel, and the other put he in Dan.).



Dan was in the far north of his kingdom. Bethel was in the south, just above the border with Judah and right on the major route people would travel while journeying to Jerusalem to worship.



Believing that observance of the same annual festivals as the Jews—the Holy Days of God (Leviticus 23)—would rekindle a desire for national unification, Jeroboam also changed the timing of the great fall festival (Leviticus:23:23-44[23]And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,[24]Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, In the seventh month, in the first day of the month, shall ye have a sabbath, a memorial of blowing of trumpets, an holy convocation.[25]Ye shall do no servile work therein: but ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD.[26]And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,[27]Also on the tenth day of this seventh month there shall be a day of atonement: it shall be an holy convocation unto you; and ye shall afflict your souls, and offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD.[28]And ye shall do no work in that same day: for it is a day of atonement, to make an atonement for you before the LORD your God.[29]For whatsoever soul it be that shall not be afflicted in that same day, he shall be cut off from among his people.[30]And whatsoever soul it be that doeth any work in that same day, the same soul will I destroy from among his people.[31]Ye shall do no manner of work: it shall be a statute for ever throughout your generations in all your dwellings.[32]It shall be unto you a sabbath of rest, and ye shall afflict your souls: in the ninth day of the month at even, from even unto even, shall ye celebrate your sabbath.[33]And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,[34]Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the feast of tabernacles for seven days unto the LORD.[35]On the first day shall be an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein.[36]Seven days ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD: on the eighth day shall be an holy convocation unto you; and ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD: it is a solemn assembly; and ye shall do no servile work therein.[37]These are the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall proclaim to be holy convocations, to offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD, a burnt offering, and a meat offering, a sacrifice, and drink offerings, every thing upon his day:[38]Beside the sabbaths of the LORD, and beside your gifts, and beside all your vows, and beside all your freewill offerings, which ye give unto the LORD.[39]Also in the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when ye have gathered in the fruit of the land, ye shall keep a feast unto the LORD seven days: on the first day shall be a sabbath, and on the eighth day shall be a sabbath.[40]And ye shall take you on the first day the boughs of goodly trees, branches of palm trees, and the boughs of thick trees, and willows of the brook; and ye shall rejoice before the LORD your God seven days.[41]And ye shall keep it a feast unto the LORD seven days in the year. It shall be a statute for ever in your generations: ye shall celebrate it in the seventh month.[42]Ye shall dwell in booths seven days; all that are Israelites born shall dwell in booths:[43]That your generations may know that I made the children of Israel to dwell in booths, when I brought them out of the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.[44]And Moses declared unto the children of Israel the feasts of the LORD.) from the seventh to the eighth month (1 Kings:12:32-33[32]And Jeroboam ordained a feast in the eighth month, on the fifteenth day of the month, like unto the feast that is in Judah, and he offered upon the altar. So did he in Bethel, sacrificing unto the calves that he had made: and he placed in Bethel the priests of the high places which he had made.[33]So he offered upon the altar which he had made in Bethel the fifteenth day of the eighth month, even in the month which he had devised of his own heart; and ordained a feast unto the children of Israel: and he offered upon the altar, and burnt incense.).



He dismissed the Aaronic and Levitical priests (verse 31; 1 Kings:13:33After this thing Jeroboam returned not from his evil way, but made again of the lowest of the people priests of the high places: whosoever would, he consecrated him, and he became one of the priests of the high places.), men set apart by God's own decree (Exodus:40:15And thou shalt anoint them, as thou didst anoint their father, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office: for their anointing shall surely be an everlasting priesthood throughout their generations.) to maintain the integrity of the nation's religious life. To Jeroboam the Levitical priesthood was a threatening independent power base. The Levites inherited their office, owed the king nothing and were largely outside his control.



By dismissing the Levitical priests, Jeroboam established monarchical control of the nation's religious life. As a result, many of the Levites moved to Judah, where they could continue to perform their divinely appointed functions (2 Chronicles:11:13-15[13]And the priests and the Levites that were in all Israel resorted to him out of all their coasts.[14]For the Levites left their suburbs and their possession, and came to Judah and Jerusalem: for Jeroboam and his sons had cast them off from executing the priest's office unto the LORD:[15]And he ordained him priests for the high places, and for the devils, and for the calves which he had made.).



In place of the Levites Jeroboam created a new priesthood of "the lowest" and least-experienced people (1 Kings:12:31And he made an house of high places, and made priests of the lowest of the people, which were not of the sons of Levi.; 13:33, KJV), men who owed the king all that they had and were. These appointees would have to cater to royal preferences to retain their positions.



Jeroboam introduced syncretism, a fusion of differing systems of belief. He combined aspects of God's true religion with pagan beliefs and human rationalization. He may well have patterned many aspects of his religious practices after the customs of Egypt and Tyre—Israel's allies by treaty—to strengthen his relationship with these two major commercial and military supporters.



From that time forward the northern kingdom appeared to the outside world as merely an extension of the powerful coastal cities of the Phoenician Empire. They were commercial partners, shared a language and likely held similar religious views.



The distinction that God had originally intended between Israel and the surrounding nations was soon obliterated. So it is no wonder that historians have difficulty detecting Israel's role in the region as anything other than traders with the coastal Phoenician cities. Israel was reduced to approximately equal status with the other kingdoms. Regrettably, it had forsaken its role as a spiritual light and example to the nations.



God's response to Israel and Judah's sins



Shortly after the inauguration of the new religious rituals and practices at Bethel and Dan, Ahijah the prophet, who had originally informed Jeroboam that he would become king, received another message from God:



"Go tell Jeroboam, 'Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel: Because I exalted you from among the people, made you leader over my people Israel, and tore the kingdom away from the house of David to give it to you; yet you have not been like my servant David, who kept my commandments and followed me with all his heart, doing only that which was right in my sight, but you have done evil above all those who were before you and have gone and made for yourself other gods, and cast images, provoking me to anger, and have thrust me behind your back; therefore, I will bring evil upon the house of Jeroboam.



"'I will cut off from Jeroboam every male, both bond and free in Israel, and will consume the house of Jeroboam, just as one burns up dung until it is all gone ...'" (1 Kings:14:7-10[7]Go, tell Jeroboam, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Forasmuch as I exalted thee from among the people, and made thee prince over my people Israel,[8]And rent the kingdom away from the house of David, and gave it thee: and yet thou hast not been as my servant David, who kept my commandments, and who followed me with all his heart, to do that only which was right in mine eyes;[9]But hast done evil above all that were before thee: for thou hast gone and made thee other gods, and molten images, to provoke me to anger, and hast cast me behind thy back:[10]Therefore, behold, I will bring evil upon the house of Jeroboam, and will cut off from Jeroboam him that pisseth against the wall, and him that is shut up and left in Israel, and will take away the remnant of the house of Jeroboam, as a man taketh away dung, till it be all gone., NRSV).



Jeroboam's reign had quickly gone terribly wrong. Sadly, his actions were merely in tune with the times. In the southern kingdom of Judah, King Rehoboam, whose mother was an Ammonite, did nothing to correct the idolatrous example Solomon had set in his old age. Many people in Judah likewise became ensnared in apostasy, turning from worshipping God (1 Kings:14:22-24[22]And Judah did evil in the sight of the LORD, and they provoked him to jealousy with their sins which they had committed, above all that their fathers had done.[23]For they also built them high places, and images, and groves, on every high hill, and under every green tree.[24]And there were also sodomites in the land: and they did according to all the abominations of the nations which the LORD cast out before the children of Israel.).



It wasn't long before the sins of Judah and Israel began to catch up with them. In the fifth year of King Rehoboam, Pharaoh Shishak invaded Judah with 1,200 chariots, 60,000 horsemen and large numbers of infantry. Unprepared after so many years of relying on Egypt as an ally, Rehoboam panicked. The prophet Shemaiah brought this message from God to Rehoboam's court in Jerusalem: "You abandoned me, so I have abandoned you to the hand of Shishak" (2 Chronicles:12:5Then came Shemaiah the prophet to Rehoboam, and to the princes of Judah, that were gathered together to Jerusalem because of Shishak, and said unto them, Thus saith the LORD, Ye have forsaken me, and therefore have I also left you in the hand of Shishak., NRSV). The Bible records that the Egyptians demanded as tribute most of the golden treasures Solomon had made for the temple and his palace.



Shishak's own account of this invasion is preserved on the walls of the temple he built with his plunder to honor his god Amun-Re in Karnak. He boasts of taking 150 towns, mostly in Judah's Negev region and Israel's north. Israel's golden age under one monarch, and most of the golden treasures of the temple and king's palace created during it, had disappeared.



However, the Scriptures note that Judah's leaders admitted their guilt and humbled themselves before God. Such repentance wasn't seen with the rulers of the northern 10 tribes. Therefore the northern kingdom was the first to go into captivity.



Because of Rehoboam's change of heart God reduced the impact of Judah's disaster. "They have humbled themselves; I will not destroy them, but I will grant them some deliverance, and my wrath shall not be poured out on Jerusalem by the hand of Shishak. Nevertheless they shall be his servants, so that they may know the difference between serving me and serving the kingdoms of other lands" (2 Chronicles:12:7-8[7]And when the LORD saw that they humbled themselves, the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah, saying, They have humbled themselves; therefore I will not destroy them, but I will grant them some deliverance; and my wrath shall not be poured out upon Jerusalem by the hand of Shishak.[8]Nevertheless they shall be his servants; that they may know my service, and the service of the kingdoms of the countries., NRSV).



Here is another important lesson about how God deals with His people. Even though they may repent, He does not necessarily take away all the consequences of their mistakes or rebellion against Him. But, if people sincerely humble themselves, He is often merciful, balancing out punishment and relief.



God does not throw temper tantrums; He does not impulsively blot out the objects of His wrath. His actions have purpose. First He attempts to deal with people in ways that will teach them lessons (Ezekiel:33:11Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?). As we can see in many examples from the history of Israel and Judah, punishment is often His means of trying to change people's attitudes.



God looks out for the long-term good of those with whom He is working (Hebrews:12:5-12[5]And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:[6]For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.[7]If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?[8]But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.[9]Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?[10]For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.[11]Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.[12]Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;). His ultimate goal, of course, is to bring everyone to repentance (2 Timothy:2:24-26[24]And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,[25]In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;[26]And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.; 2 Peter:3:9The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.), to acknowledge Him and willingly choose to live according to His laws.



The approaching catastrophe



Because the northern kingdom followed Jeroboam's leadership into idolatry, God warned the Israelites of the consequences of their rebellion: "The LORD will strike Israel, as a reed is shaken in the water; he will root up Israel out of this good land that he gave to their ancestors, and scatter them beyond the Euphrates, because they have made their sacred poles [idolatrous symbols associated with false worship], provoking the LORD to anger. He will give Israel up because of the sins of Jeroboam, which he sinned and which he caused Israel to commit" (1 Kings:14:15-16[15]For the LORD shall smite Israel, as a reed is shaken in the water, and he shall root up Israel out of this good land, which he gave to their fathers, and shall scatter them beyond the river, because they have made their groves, provoking the LORD to anger.[16]And he shall give Israel up because of the sins of Jeroboam, who did sin, and who made Israel to sin., NRSV).



God dealt patiently with Israel, giving the people plenty of opportunities to repent. But over the course of the next two centuries the sins of the house of Israel and its kings increased. The Israelites drifted farther and farther from the covenant with their Creator that they had bound themselves to in the days of Moses.



God withdrew, in stages, His blessing and protection. "In those days the LORD began to trim off parts of Israel. Hazael [the Syrian king] defeated them throughout the territory of Israel: from the Jordan eastward, all the land of Gilead, the Gadites, the Reubenites, and the Manassites, from Aroer, which is by the Wadi Arnon, that is, Gilead and Bashan" (2 Kings:10:32-33[32]In those days the LORD began to cut Israel short: and Hazael smote them in all the coasts of Israel;[33]From Jordan eastward, all the land of Gilead, the Gadites, and the Reubenites, and the Manassites, from Aroer, which is by the river Arnon, even Gilead and Bashan., NRSV).



During the eighth century B.C. God's prophets continued warning the Israelites that they, like the other kingdoms in the region, would fall victim to a new and powerful military presence. The westward expansion of Assyria soon began to seriously threaten the existence of the kingdom of Israel.



During this time of approaching disaster the writers of many of the books that would become the prophetic books of the Old Testament were at work. God sent prophet after prophet to warn the house of Israel and the house of Judah to repent. On a few occasions the leaders of Judah listened and instituted reforms that lasted for a while. But the northern kingdom never repented of the idolatrous practices Jeroboam had introduced. Its people refused to heed the warnings of the prophets.



The prophets of God repeated the same basic themes. They called for immediate repentance. They proclaimed the certainty of a coming captivity if the people refused to repent. They also consistently spoke of the future of the people of Israel, especially about the redemption and restoration of their descendants by the prophesied Messiah. (To understand the foundational concepts of biblical prophecy, be sure to request the booklet You Can Understand Bible Prophecy.)



The end of the northern kingdom



Shortly after the death of King Jeroboam II (ca. 753 B.C.), the northern kingdom plunged into political chaos. "Civil war, assassinations and internal fighting between groups which supported Assyrian policies or opposed any capitulation to them racked the northern state ... The deaths of Jeroboam and Uzziah ... came at the very moment when Assyria regained her power and renewed her push to the west" (Lawrence Boadt, Reading the Old Testament, 1984, p. 312).



In the midst of their own domestic and internal difficulties, Israelite leaders had to consider the intrusions of Assyria into their affairs. By the time of Assyria's Tiglath-Pileser III, Israel's King Menahem (ca. 752-742 B.C.) had to pay enormous sums of tribute—protection money on a national scale—to induce the Assyrian monarch to leave him and his people in peace (2 Kings:15:19-20[19]And Pul the king of Assyria came against the land: and Menahem gave Pul a thousand talents of silver, that his hand might be with him to confirm the kingdom in his hand.[20]And Menahem exacted the money of Israel, even of all the mighty men of wealth, of each man fifty shekels of silver, to give to the king of Assyria. So the king of Assyria turned back, and stayed not there in the land.).



A few years later King Pekah (ca. 740-732 B.C.) rebelled against Assyria, only to be forced to surrender and pay a huge ransom to retain his throne (2 Kings:15:19-20[19]And Pul the king of Assyria came against the land: and Menahem gave Pul a thousand talents of silver, that his hand might be with him to confirm the kingdom in his hand.[20]And Menahem exacted the money of Israel, even of all the mighty men of wealth, of each man fifty shekels of silver, to give to the king of Assyria. So the king of Assyria turned back, and stayed not there in the land.). Pekah's disloyalty set in motion the first step in the Assyrians' policy of dealing with unruly peoples—turning the offending kingdom into a vassal state.



According to Assyria's foreign policy, those who would rebel a second time would forfeit their political control and be replaced by a vassal king whose loyalty the Assyrian government could count on. The Assyrians would also reduce the amount of territory the vassal would control, with the Assyrian monarch instituting his direct rule over at least some of the original kingdom.



A second rebellion would also trigger the deportation of significant numbers of the offending population. Finding themselves among strangers whose language they did not understand (Jeremiah:5:15Lo, I will bring a nation upon you from far, O house of Israel, saith the LORD: it is a mighty nation, it is an ancient nation, a nation whose language thou knowest not, neither understandest what they say.) and whose land and culture were unfamiliar to them, the deportees would have little hope of successfully revolting against their Assyrian masters.



Tiglath-Pileser initiated these steps against the northern kingdom in response to King Pekah's alliance with Damascus, his second attempt to revolt (ca. 734 B.C). The first deportation of Israelites (ca. 733-732 B.C.), sometimes referred to as the Galilean captivity, took part of the population—principally drawn from the tribes of Naphtali, Reuben, Gad and the portion of Manasseh living east of the Jordan River—to northern Syria and northern and northwestern Mesopotamia (2 Kings:15:27-29[27]In the two and fiftieth year of Azariah king of Judah Pekah the son of Remaliah began to reign over Israel in Samaria, and reigned twenty years.[28]And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD: he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin.[29]In the days of Pekah king of Israel came Tiglathpileser king of Assyria, and took Ijon, and Abelbethmaachah, and Janoah, and Kedesh, and Hazor, and Gilead, and Galilee, all the land of Naphtali, and carried them captive to Assyria.; 1 Chronicles:5:26And the God of Israel stirred up the spirit of Pul king of Assyria, and the spirit of Tilgathpilneser king of Assyria, and he carried them away, even the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, and brought them unto Halah, and Habor, and Hara, and to the river Gozan, unto this day.).



Tiglath-Pileser III also occupied the greater part of Galilee and Gilead and divided Israelite territory itself into four new provinces: Magidu, Duru, Gilead and Samaria.



The last straw



Should a people rebel a third time, the official Assyrian response was firm and final: The nation would cease to exist. The Assyrian army would forcibly remove virtually the entire population into exile. The Assyrians would scatter the deportees throughout their empire and repopulate the vacated territories with people from distant and far-flung regions. Once removed from their homeland, and with their lands now settled by others, the scattered exiles would have less means or motivation to rebel against Assyrian control.



A pro-Assyrian but unreliable Israelite vassal, King Hoshea (ca. 732-722 B.C.), set in motion the events that brought the northern kingdom's dissolution. Hoping to receive critical aid from Egypt, to the south, Hoshea betrayed Assyrian trust around 724 B.C. (2 Kings:18:9-10[9]And it came to pass in the fourth year of king Hezekiah, which was the seventh year of Hoshea son of Elah king of Israel, that Shalmaneser king of Assyria came up against Samaria, and besieged it.[10]And at the end of three years they took it: even in the sixth year of Hezekiah, that is in the ninth year of Hoshea king of Israel, Samaria was taken.). Shalmaneser V responded with a siege (ca. 724-722 B.C.) that resulted in the fall of Israel's capital city, Samaria. At that point the northern kingdom ceased to exist as a political entity.



History records a postscript to the fall of Samaria in 722 B.C. Having successfully entered Israel's Promised Land via its victory over the northern kingdom, the Assyrians would soon return to attack the southern kingdom, Judah. In 701 B.C. the Assyrian army, led by Sennacherib, captured virtually all of Judah's fortified cities (2 Kings:18:9And it came to pass in the fourth year of king Hezekiah, which was the seventh year of Hoshea son of Elah king of Israel, that Shalmaneser king of Assyria came up against Samaria, and besieged it., 13-14) and deported thousands of Jews. Jerusalem, however, did not fall in this invasion, and the southern kingdom recovered sufficiently to last another 115 years before Babylon's armies conquered and destroyed Jerusalem in 586 B.C.



Exiles disappear from history



With the extinction of the northern kingdom as a political entity, its people were divided and scattered beyond the Euphrates River in Assyria's eastern territories. God would now fulfill His promise to "sift the house of Israel among all nations" (Amos:9:9For, lo, I will command, and I will sift the house of Israel among all nations, like as corn is sifted in a sieve, yet shall not the least grain fall upon the earth.). Now the Israelites would experience what it was like to live under the rule of the other nations they had so much wanted to emulate.



God had warned them: "Then the LORD will scatter you among all peoples, from one end of the earth to the other, and there you shall serve other gods, which neither you nor your fathers have known; wood and stone. And among those nations you shall find no rest, nor shall the sole of your foot have a resting place; but there the LORD will give you a trembling heart, failing eyes, and anguish of soul. Your life shall hang in doubt before you; you shall fear day and night, and have no assurance of life" (Deuteronomy:28:64-66[64]And the LORD shall scatter thee among all people, from the one end of the earth even unto the other; and there thou shalt serve other gods, which neither thou nor thy fathers have known, even wood and stone.[65]And among these nations shalt thou find no ease, neither shall the sole of thy foot have rest: but the LORD shall give thee there a trembling heart, and failing of eyes, and sorrow of mind:[66]And thy life shall hang in doubt before thee; and thou shalt fear day and night, and shalt have none assurance of thy life:).



At this time they disappeared from history as the people of Israel. The Israelites had already begun to "serve other gods," having abandoned the religious practices that obviously distinguished them from other peoples. Among other things, they had abandoned the seventh-day Sabbath. God had proclaimed the Sabbath to Israel as "a sign between Me and you throughout your generations" (Exodus:31:13Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you., 16-17; compare Ezekiel:20:12Moreover also I gave them my sabbaths, to be a sign between me and them, that they might know that I am the LORD that sanctify them., 20).



Once their conquerors removed them from their homeland, they were merely refugees—part of the great mass of dislocated peoples the Assyrians had exiled. No longer did they possess outward characteristics that easily distinguished them from the peoples around them. Their obvious identifying signs quickly disappeared. But among their tribes fragments of their identity and culture would not so easily disappear.



How, then, can we find them? We need to look at the general region to which they were exiled and see if a people suddenly appeared in the region with characteristics that link them to the refugees of Israel's northern kingdom.



What we find is an amazing story, over many centuries, of God guiding displaced Israelites to the very region far to the north and west of their homeland that His prophets had foretold.