The 7 Feasts of Israel.

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Time to Chew "Biblebytes" Bible Studies The 7 Feasts of Israel (Holy Convocations & their Spiritual meanings) , by Helen 1 word pad page per week. Most RECENT appears at the top

Date: Friday, April 22, 2005 at 10:21:37 (CDT) Page No :12 Study: Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD a. 70 bullocks offered, beginning the 1st day with 13 bullocks and offering one less bullock per day unto the 7th day. The Jews believed these 70 bullocks were offered in symbolism of the 70 nations of earth to which the Gospel would go. On the the 8th day there was one bullock offered, thus altogether making 70 + 1 = 71 total. It also symbolized the Sanhedrin concsisting of 70 Elders + the Chief Priest as President. b. There were 14 rams offered for the 7 days, then 2 on the 8th day. c. Then there were 98 lambs offered for the 7 days, then 14 on the 8th day. d. Then along with each of the above bullocks, rams and lambs there was offered the attendant Meal and Drink offerings, in their respective 10ths deal of flour and wine. In all there were 182 tenths deals of fine flour offered for the 7 days, then on the 8th day there were 9/10ths deals offered. e. Then the non-sweet offerings were 8 goats offered for a Sin offering to the Lord; 7 goats for each of the 7 days of the Feast, and one goat on the 8th day. f. For the Daily sacrifices there was a total of 14 lambs, then 2 for the 8th day Solemn Assembly. These were the morning and evening sacrifices Ex. 29:38-41. Along with these were the Meat and Drink Offerings of the fine flour and wine. 8/10ths in all for the 8 days and 8/4ths of a hin of wine for the Drink offering. The numbers which stand forth especailly in their multiples are the numbers 7, eight and ten !!!! Seven brings us to the number of completion and perfection. It points to the perfection and completeness of Christ's sacrifice. This was the Feast of the 7th month. The Feast lasted for 7 days. The sacrifices are stamped with multiples of 7 in the 7 days. Eight is the number of resurrection and new beginnings. The 8th day of the Feast of this 7th month being set aside pointed to the day after the 7th day. This was fulfilled in Christs resurrection after the 7th day, at the close of the sabbath, on the 1st day of the new week, the new beginning. Dispensationally it points to the New Heavens and New Earth, the New Jerusalem, which comes after the 7th day of the Lord, as in the Millenniel Kingdom. Date: Thursday, April 14, 2005 at 18:45:45 (CDT) Page No :11 Study: Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD E. The Sacrifice:....Lev. 23:33-38; Num. 29:12-40 Undoubtedly the most peculiar thing associated with this Feast were the specified offerings which were to be offered from the first day unto the eighth day, the day of the solemn assembly. The seven days of the Feast were stamped with the number seven, as in the sacri- fices offered. We are encouraged to study the scriptures carefully. Only the basic facts can be noted here. No other Feast had as many sacrifices offered therein as in this Feast, as seen here. 1. Passover Feast had it particular sacrifice in the offering of the Passover Lamb Num. 28:16. 2. Unleavened Bread had its particular number of sacrifices. These totalled 14 bullocks, 7 rams, 14 Lambs as well as their associated Meal and Drink offerings, plus 7 goats for the Sin offerings Num. 28:17-25. So there were sweet-savour and non-sweet savour offerings here. 3. Pentecost had its speicified offerings also. These totalled 2 bullocks, one ram, 7 lambs and their associated Meal and Drink offerings, plus the goat for the Sin offering Num. 28:26-31. 4.Trumpets had its specified number of sacrifices too. These consisted of one bullock, one ram and 7 lambs with their Meal and Drink offerings, plus the goat for the Sin offering. Num. 29:1-6. 5. The Day of Atonement also followed a similar pattern. There was one bullock, one ram and 7 lambs with their Meal and Drink offerings, then the goat for the Sin offering. Then there were the two special goats chosen, the goat for Jehovah and the Scapegoat for the Day of Atonement ceremonies Num. 29:7-11. 6. The Feast of Tabernacles had its specified number of sacrifices, as seen in the following outline. All these sacrifices on the Feast days were beside the regular "daily sacrifices" of the morning and evening. In the 7 Days of this Feast there were: Date: Friday, April 08, 2005 at 10:27:17 (CDT) Page No :10 Study: Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD Remember that Hebrew time was from "evening to evening" or sunset to sunset, and therefore the evening of the 14th day was the beginning of the 15th day, we see, what may be called, "the overlap" of time. So it is with the number seven. The number 7 is seen in the end of the age in many of its uses, yet it "overlaps" into the 7th day of the Lord, i.e., the Millenniel Kingdom. So it is with the Feast of the 7th month. It finds fulfilment in the close of this present age, yet overflows or overlaps on into the next age. We note the special days marked out in this feast. 1. The 15th day was the first day of this Feast. Lev. 23:33-35. 2. Then the Feast was to last for 7 days, during which special sacrifices were offered, as the people rejoiced in booths. So from the 15th to the 21st day the Feast lasted. Lev. 23:36-44. 3. Then the 8th day (or the 22nd day of the month) was to be a special day also, a holy convocation. It was a solemn assembly. Lev. 23:36; Num. 29:35. As seen previously, all Feast days were extra sabbaths, or holy convocations in Israel, besides the weekly sabbaths Lev. 23:37,38. All speak of REST in the finished work of the Atonement. The truth is set forth in the use of these symbolic numbers, which can only be dealt with in brief. The number 15 is seen by these several scriptures to be the number of REST Lev. 23: 5-7, 34,35; Esther 9:18. In Christ Jesus only is there true Rest. Matt. 11:28-30. The number 7 is the number of perfection, fulness and completion. It is the number of the Book of Rev. Gen. 2:1-3; Ex. 34:18; Lev. 23:34; Ex. 20:9-11; Rev. 1:4,6,12,20; 4:5. In Christ there is perfection, fulness and completion. The number 8 is the number of resurrection and new beginning. It is seen that it relates to the "morrow after the sabbath" as in the Sheaf of Firstfruits and Pentecost. Those days were also an 8th days, as also is this 8th day solemn assembly Lev. 23:36; Num. 29:35; Ex. 22:30; Acts 20:7; 1 Corin. 16:2. In Christ alone is there resurrection and life and a new beginning. Date: Friday, April 01, 2005 at 10:49:35 (CST) Page No :9 Study: Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD 1. Dwelling in Booths: For 7 days reminded the Israelites of their exodus from Egypt and that they were but pilgrims and strangers in the earth. So the believer is but a pilgrim and stranger in this world, looking for a city whose builder and maker is God, even as Abraham, Isaac and Jacob looked for. Heb. 11:10-16; 13:,10,13; 1 Pet. 1:17; 2:11. 2. Dwelling in Booths also reminded Israel that these "tabernacles" were only temporary dwelling places, not eternal. The eternal dwelling place was yet to come. So the believer in Christ is reminded that the earthly physical body is only a temporary tabernacle. We will one day have to put it off, either in death or by the change-over to immortality. At the coming of Christ we will receive a new and heavenly house, our eternal dwelling place, which is an immortalized and glorified body. 2Corin. 5:1-5; 1 Corin. 15:51-57; 1 Thess 4:15-18; Phil. 3:20,21. The fulness of this Feast of the seventh month will be experienced at the coming of Christ and the resurrection and glorification of the saints of all ages. The Kingdom age will be an age of glory. There the believer will look back over their earthly pilgrimage of this life and remember the goodness of the Lord and rejoice in the glory of God. Then the Tabernacle of God shall be with men and He will be to them their God and they shall be His people ..Rev. 21:1-8. This will be the completeness of the Feast of Tabernacles indeed. D. The Feast of the 7th Month...Neh. 8:14 The significance of the number seven has already been discussed, under the Feast of Trumpets and Day of Atonement. The number is especially stamped on this Feast more than any of the previous Feasts and more particularly under the sacrifices which were offered during these festival days. The number seven points to the end of this age, to its completion, and then it overflows into the Kingdom Age, which is the seventh Day of the Lord. Date: Friday, March 25, 2005 at 10:54:56 (CST) Page No :8 Study: Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD 2. Greek Word and Thought: The Greek word for "Tabernacle" is "Skene" and means a tent or cloth hut and is translated "habitation, tabernacle". Luke 16:9; Acts 7: 43. This and other relative words are used in the following manner. a. It is used of the body of Christ in His incarnation when "the Word was made flesh and dwelt (tabernacles) among us. John 1:14. b. Peter used it of his own physical body when he was about to die and spoke of it as the putting off of his tabernacle. 2 Pet. 1:13,14. c.The Apostle Paul also spoke of our physical body as being an earthly house, a tabernacle in which we groan, waiting for our house from heaven.. 2 Corin. 5:1-5. d. The Tabernacle of Moses was also spoken of as a tent or habitation of God Acts 7:44; Heb. 9:2-8; 13:10. e. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob lived in tabernacles also as pilgrims and strangers in the earth. Heb. 11:9. f. The Tabernacle of David was a tent or dwelling place of God. Acts 15:16. g. The scriptures speak of the Jews Feast of Tabernacles (lit., the tabernacle fixing) when Jesus entered the Temple. John 7:2, 27-29. h. The New Testament also speaks of the heavenly Tabernacle and Temple, God's true dwelling place Heb. 8:2; Rev. 13:6; 15:5. Eventually the Tabernacle of God, the heavenly Jerusalem, will be with men Rev. 21: 3. i. On the mount of Transfiguration Peter suggested to Jesus that they make 3 tabernacles; one for Him, one for Moses and the other for Elijah. Matt. 17:4; Mark 9:5; Luke 9:33. Perhaps this was an allusion to the Feast of Booths as far as Peter was concerned. So the word is used in a variety of ways. The basic meaning of both the Heb. and the Greek is that of a temporary dwelling place; a tent or a habitation. We note two of the major truths which may be discovered upon a consideration of the Hebrew and Greek thought. Date: Friday, March 18, 2005 at 11:06:29 (CST) Page No :7 Study: Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD C. The Feast of Tabernacles---Booths This Feast was also called the Feast of Tabernacles or the Feast of Booths. 1. Hebrew Word and Thought: The hebrew word "Tabernacle" as used here is "Sook-kaw", and means " a hut (as of entwined boughs) or lair". It is translated "booth, cottage, covert, den, pavilion, tabernacle" Lev .23: 34.; Deut. 16:13,16; 31:10; 2 Chron. 8:13; Ezra 3:4; Zech. 14:16-18. The custom took place when all of the harvest was gathered in. The Israelites were to take booths of goodly trees, the palm, the willow, the olive, the pine, the myrtle as well as other trees and make booths out of them. They were to leave their houses, or else build them on the roofs of their houses, and rejoice in these booths for seven days before the Lord. Lev. 23:39-44; Neh. 8:13-18. The palm tree was symbolic of victory; the willow of weeping; the myrtle of joy; the olive of anointing Neh. 8:15; Psa. 137:1-5. The other branches also had symbolic meaning in Israel. The Israelites were also to bless their families, their servants, and the Levites, the strangers, the fatherless and the widow in their gates. They were commanded to rejoice before the Lord. With the harvest gathered in, they could look back over the labours of the year, all because of the blessing of the Lord in sending the rains. All this was sufficient grounds of rejoicing together. The Feast of Tabernacles was the most joyous season of the year. Pentecost was joyous. Tabernacles was the most joyous. In both Feasts, the Levites, the widows, stranger and fatherless were ministered to and blessed Deut. 16:9-12, 13-16; Acts 5:41; 8:8,39; Luke 14:15-24; Joel 2:21. Another reason for the Feast of Booths was in order that the Israelites would remember how the Lord caused them to dwell in booths when He brought them out of Egypt Lev. 23:42,43. In other words, the Feast of the 7th month reminded them of the first month; the end reminded them of their beginning; Tabernacles reminded them of Passover. Allusions to this Feast may be found in Matt. 21:1-11 and Rev. 7:9-12. There we see the waving of palm trees amidst loud Hosannas to the Son of David, amidst great rejoicing. Date: Friday, March 11, 2005 at 10:15:35 (CST) Page No :6 Study: Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD So then under the closing days of grace, in the end of this age, the harvest will take place. The same rain that ripens the wheat also ripens the tares. The same rain that matures the righteous will also mature the wicked. The Apostle John saw both of these harvests in Rev. 14:13-16, 17-20. One is the harvest of the righteous and the other is the harvest of the wicked which are cast into the winepress of God's wrath. The prophet Joel in prophesying of a double portion of rain also spoke of a double portion harvest ingathering. The end of the age shows an outpouring of former and latter rains; that is, the rains of Passover, Pentecost and Tabernacles. The double portion of rain will result in a double portion of harvest. Joel says that the floor shall be full of wheat, and the vats shall overflow with wine and oil. The rain will restore the lost and wasted years. This wheat, wine and oil speaks of the corn harvest and the fruit harvests together Joel 2:21-32. It is here that the plowman shall overtake the reaper, and the treader of grapes him that soweth seed Amos 9:13-15. The Lord has promised to do a quick work and cut it short in righteousness in these days. It will be God's strange work and act. Rom. 9:28; Isa. 28:22. Pentecost was the harvest of firstfruits. Tabernacles is the harvest of the final friuits. the first pointed to the final. Then end of the age will result in the greatest ingathering of souls ever seen. Thus the symbolic and prophetic significance of the Feast of Tabernacles relative to the harvest ingathering in the end of the year points to that harvest ingathering in the church. The Lord Jesus is concerned about the bringing in of the final harvest by the Church before He returns the second time . Matt. 9:37,38; 13:30,39; Mark 4:29; Luke 10:2; John 4:35; Rev. 14:15. Type: Passover 1st Month... Pentecost 3rd Month. =" Former & Spring Rains=Barley & Wheat & Corn harvest. 4th, 5th and 6th Month......No Rain. 7th Month-Tabernacles=Latter Rains Wine and Oil=Fruit Harvest... Antitype: 1st Month, Passover & Pentecost= First Outpouring of Spirit for Jews and Gentiles Harvest of Souls. 4th, 5th and 6th Months=Dry Season Dark Ages.... 7th Month Tabernacles: Last Day of Outpouring of Spirit Worldwide Harvest of souls. Date: Friday, March 11, 2005 at 10:14:44 (CST) Page No :6 Study: Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD So then under the closing days of grace, in the end of this age, the harvest will take place. The same rain that ripens the wheat also ripens the tares. The same rain that matures the righteous will also mature the wicked. The Apostle John saw both of these harvests in Rev. 14:13-16, 17-20. One is the harvest of the righteous and the other is the harvest of the wicked which are cast into the winepress of God's wrath. The prophet Joel in prophesying of a double portion of rain also spoke of a double portion harvest ingathering. The end of the age shows an outpouring of former and latter rains; that is, the rains of Passover, Pentecost and Tabernacles. The double portion of rain will result in a double portion of harvest. Joel says that the floor shall be full of wheat, and the vats shall overflow with wine and oil. The rain will restore the lost and wasted years. This wheat, wine and oil speaks of the corn harvest and the fruit harvests together Joel 2:21-32. It is here that the plowman shall overtake the reaper, and the treader of grapes him that soweth seed Amos 9:13-15. The Lord has promised to do a quick work and cut it short in righteousness in these days. It will be God's strange work and act. Rom. 9:28; Isa. 28:22. Pentecost was the harvest of firstfruits. Tabernacles is the harvest of the final friuits. the first pointed to the final. Then end of the age will result in the greatest ingathering of souls ever seen. Thus the symbolic and prophetic significance of the Feast of Tabernacles relative to the harvest ingathering in the end of the year points to that harvest ingathering in the church. The Lord Jesus is concerned about the bringing in of the final harvest by the Church before He returns the second time . Matt. 9:37,38; 13:30,39; Mark 4:29; Luke 10:2; John 4:35; Rev. 14:15. Type: Passover 1st Month... Pentecost 3rd Month. =" Former & Spring Rains=Barley & Wheat & Corn harvest. 4th, 5th and 6th Month......No Rain. 7th Month-Tabernacles=Latter Rains Wine and Oil=Fruit Harvest... Antitype: 1st Month, Passover & Pentecost= First Outpouring of Spirit for Jews and Gentiles Harvest of Souls. 4th, 5th and 6th Months=Dry Season Dark Ages.... 7th Month Tabernacles: Last Day of Outpouring of Spirit Worldwide Harvest of souls. Date: Friday, March 04, 2005 at 10:14:13 (CST) Page No :5 Study: Study 15 The 7 Feasts of the Lord Tabernacles is spoken of as the Feast of Ingathering which took place in the end of the year Ex. 23:16; 34:22. In this harvest was gathered in all the fruits of the land; wine and oil. The corn harvest was the harvest of the firstfruits for it pointed to the final harvest in the end of the year. Deut. 11:10-15. Many references link the rains and especially the two harvests together as the Lord promised to send His people "the corn, wine and oil" Deut. 11:14; Hosea 2:8,9,21,22; Joel 1:10; 2:23,24; Rev. 6:6; Deut. 12:17;14:23; Neh. 5:10,11; 10:39. We can see symbolic significance and national significance in this harvest. Barley harvest has been used to symbolize the Jewish converts; wheat harvest to symbolize the first Gentile converts. This is seen in the Book of Acts and the history of the early church under the historical fulfilment of Passover and Pentecost. Jesus and the Apostles went to the Jews first (barley), then the cities of the Gentiles (wheat). Then the fruit harvest has been used to symbolize the vast variety and multiple of converts out of every kindred, tongue, thribe and nation in the four corners of the earth. This fianl harvest comes under the historical and spiritual fulfilment of the Feast of Tabernacles in the church. The symbolic truth of the harvest ingathering is the major thing and the scripture speaks of converts and believers as being the fruits of the harvest seasons James 5:7; James 1:18; 1 Corin. 15:20,23.; 16:15; Rev. 14:4. The Father God as the Divine Husbandman has long patience as He waits for the precious fruit of the earth and the early and latter rains. James 5:7,8. "Corn, wine and oil" is used in scripture to symbolize the Word of God, the joy of the Lord and the anointing of the Holy Spirit. The fruits and the rains are certainly not speaking of the natural but the spiritual. The Father wants the final harvest of souls, the greatest ingathering ever in church history. The Feast of Ingathering took place in the end of the year Ex. 23:16.There is no mistaking the symbolism here. Jesus spoke of the harvest of the wheat and the tares, the good and the bad, as taking place in the end of the age. Matt. 13:29,30, 36-43. Date: Friday, February 25, 2005 at 10:32:23 (CST) Page No :4 Study: Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD However, the rain of the Spirit and the Word so far has been but "showers of blessings" Eze. 34:26. The Feast of Tabernacles is to see a mighty deluge of the Spirit, a universal outpouring of the Spirit. This will be accompanied by signs and wonders and gifts of the Holy Spirit, as well as revelation and illumination in the Word of God beyond all that has ever been in church history. This is prophetic significance of the rains in the Feast of Tabernacles. It will touch every nation, both Jewish and Gentile. " The early and latter rain" in the spiritual sense speaks of the two great outpourings of the Holy Spirit in the earth, in the beginning and ending of church history. The believer who is living in the time of the latter rain is called to seek the Lord and ask Him to send rain on His people Zech. 10:1; Hosea 6:3; 10:12; James 5:7; Joel 2:23-32; Psa. 65:9,10; 46:4; Jere. 5:24; 31:10-14. All that the early rain meant to the early church, the latter rain will mean to the church in the last days, but in double portions and blessing and power. The rain which came at the "seven times" praying of Elijah typifies the great rain that will be manifest in the seventh Feast. ..1Ki. 18:41-46. B. The Harvest Time: Associated with rains and actually the purpose of such were the great harvest times. As there were two great seasonal rains so there were two great harvest seasons. Rains and harvests were really inseparable. One was the precursor of the other; the harvest was the result of the rain. No rain, no harvest. The first great harvest was the "corn" harvest as seen under the Feasts of Passover and Pentecost. Then the barley and the wheat were gathered in. Ruth 1:22; 2:23; Ex. 34: 22-32; Judges 6:11. Then between the harvest months of Passover and Pentecost came the fourth, fifth, and sixth months, the dry season, when generally no rain fell. Then came the rains of the Feast of Tabernacles, the Feast of the seventh month. All were inteneded to ripen the harvest as well as prepare for the new seasons sowing. The last great harvest was the "fruit" harvest and this came in the Feast of Tabernacles.(Seems to me like we're just now coming out of the dry season, and entering into the latter rains.)... Date: Friday, February 18, 2005 at 10:34:30 (CST) Page No :3 Study: Page 3Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD For the purpose of simplification we will use "early rain" to identify with the "early church" and "latter rain" to connect with the "latter day church". The Lord promised Israel that, upon their obedience to His Covenant, He would give them the rains in their due season, "the first rain and the latter rain" that they would gather in their corn, wine and oil Deut. 11:10-17. He also promised that He would withhold the rains and allow the land to be blighted if they failed to obey His laws. The rains were always the seal of the Israelite Covenant, the token of God's blessing. No rain was judgment and the curse of God on the land as well as on the people Deut. 11:16,17; 1 Ki. 8:35-43; 17:1-7; 18:41-46; Prov. 16:15; Amos 4:6-13; Joel 1:10-12. The outpoured rains and showers of blessing were symbolical of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the revelation of the Word of God. THE WORD of God is likened to rain, Deut. 32:1-3; Isa. 55:8-12. The Holy Spirit is also likened to rain, to living waters of blessing, to rivers flowing forth from the throne of God and the Lamb. Joel 2:21-32; Hosea 6:3;10:12; James 5:7; John 7:37-39; Rev. 22:1-3. Rain speaks of revival, refreshing and restoration. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the revelation to the Apostles of the doctrine of Christ in the early church may be likened to "the first rain" or the "former rains." It was the spring of Church history. The Spirit and the Word flowed copiously. When Joel speaks of "former rain moderately" being poured out it is likened to "the teacher rain...the teacher of righteousness" Joel 2:23, marginal. The last 70 years or so have seen a tremendous outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the nations of the earth. Along with this has come an increased illumination of the Word of God. There is a great return to the doctrine of the Apostles and "the faith once delivered to the saints". Heb. 6:1,2; Jude 3. Untold thousands have come into the baptism or infilling of the Holy Spirit and further truths in the Word of God. It is indeed the time of "latter rain" outpouring, when the Spirit is being outpoured upon all flesh. This is the rain that the Husbandman has long patience for as spoken of by the Apostle James. James 5:7. The remarkable prophecy of Joel 2:23 promises the former and the latter rain in the first month (i.e. first of the Civil yet seventh of the sacred year, or visa- versa_. That is, "a double portion" of rain..... Date: Friday, February 11, 2005 at 10:34:10 (CST) Page No :2 Study: Page 2Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD C. The Solemn Feast: Deut. 16:15; Hosea 9:5; 12:9; Psa. 81:1-3. The Feast of Tabernacles was the most joyful yet also the most solemn Feast of Israel's sacred year. It involved the solemnity of the Day of Atonement, yet the rejoicing of the Feast of the Feast of Tabernacles. D. The Feast of the 7th Month: Neh. 8:14. The number seven again points to the Feast of fulness and completion. E. The Feast of Booths: Neh. 8:14,15. Refer to the notes above. II. INTERPRETATION OF THE FEAST: The most outstanding truths in the Feast of Tabernacles proper involve the seasonal rains, the final harvest of the year, and then the special days of sacrifice and finally the rejoicing in booths. These things had special significance to the Israelites and will find their spiritual fulfilment in the church in the last days. A. The Seasonal Rains: We are referred again to the comments on the Feast of Pentacost. There it will be remembered that Israel, as in any agricultural nation, had two periods of harvest involving two periods of rain, to prepare and ripen the harvest. According to the Hebrew Calendar, having both Civil and Sacred years in the same year, Passover and Pentecost had "latter" or Spring rains, while the Feast of Tabernacles had "Former" or "early rains.". There is the confusion then with, Passover and Pentecost having "the former and early rain" while Tabernacles had the "latter rain". This is because of the dual calendar Israel had. The first month of the Sacred year was the 7th month of the Cilvil year while the 7th of the Sacred was the first of the Civil year. We have to remember, this was all set up with Israel, and their calendars, not ours. The Prophet Joel speaks of the "former rain and the latter rain in the 1st month" Joel 2:23. So we are again referred to the Hebrew Calendar as used in this text. Regardless of the designation used, whether "former" or "latter" rain, the truth of the matter is that the three Feasts involved great outpourings of rain. Date: Friday, February 04, 2005 at 10:25:43 (CST) Page No :1 Study: Study 15 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES The final part of the Feast of the 7th month is the Feast of Tabernacles proper. The instructions for the keeping of this Feast are found especially in Lev. 23: 33,34. We consider the story in brief before looking at symbolic the truths therein. THE STORY IN BRIEF: With the closing harvest of the year....the fruit harvest....gathered in , the people of Israel were to set aside 7 days unto the Lord. From the 15th day to the 21st day there were to be 7 days of rejoicing before the Lord. They were to leave their houses and dwell in booths made of various trees and rejoice before the Lord their God. On the 1st and on the 8th day there were to be extra sabbath days or holy convocations. The whole Feast pointed back to the 1st Feast, Passover, because the Feast of Tabernacles was the consummation of that which began in the Feast of Passover. The symbolic details show the truths therein for Israel under the Old Covenant and for the church under the New Covenant. I. TITLES FOR THE FEAST: There were several significant titles or names for this Feast. A. The Feast of Tabernacles...Lev. 23:34; Deut. 16:13; Zech. 14:16; Ezra 3:4 Or, more literally, "The Feast of Booths". The Hebrew word for "Booth" is "Succoth". The Feast of Tabernacles, or Booths pointed back to Israel's first emcampment after their exodus from Egypt, as they encamped on the edge of the Wilderness . Ex. 12:37; Num. 33: 1-6. The booths spoke of a temporary dwelling place, enroute to the promised land and permanant dwelling places. B. THE FEAST OF INGATHERING: Ex. 23: 16. This title pointed to the final harvest, the fruit harvest, which was the final ingathering at the end of the year. Date: Friday, January 28, 2005 at 10:19:48 (CST) Page No :14 Study: Study 14 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD An end will be made of sin, transgression will be finished, reconciliation for iniquity will be realized in fulness and everlasting righteousness brought in. There will be no more need of vision and prophecy for He who is in the burden and the sum of such will be dwelling with His people. The Tabernacle of God shall be with men and He shall dwell with them. He shall be their God and they shall be His people Dan. 19: 24-27.; Rev. 21: 1-8. This will be the completion of the Jubilee ordinances because of the work of the atonement of our God and His Christ. This will complete the "Times of restitution" of all things which the prophets have spoken of since the world began. Acts. 3:19-21; Rom. 8: 17-25. Several significant scriptures concerning "the year" of release and liberty may be seen in these references: The Prophet spoke of "the acceptable year of the Lord" Isa. 61:1-3 and Luke 4:18,19, He also spoke of "the year of My Redeemed has come". Isa. 63:1-4, the sabbath year or every seventh year in Israel was "the year of release". Lev. 25:1-7; Deut. 31:9-11. And then we have "the year of Jubilee" Lev. 25: 8-17. All Points to the end of the age and the coming of the Lord which brings in the eternal ages to come when the fulness of redemption's plan will be experienced by the Redeemed. End of Study 14 Date: Friday, January 21, 2005 at 10:30:40 (CST) Page No :13 Study: Study 14 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD Every Jubilee was prophetic of the ministry of Christ. The Jubilee was proclaimed on the basis of the work of the High Priest on the Day of Atonement. So Christ's liberating ministry is founded on His atoning work. When Jesus began His ministry He spoke of His six-fold "Jubilee" ministry in Luke 4:17-19 with Isa. 61:1-3; 63:4. 1. To preach good tidings to the poor and meek. 2. To heal and bind up the broken hearted. 3. To preach deliverance to the captives and open prison doors. 4. To recover sight to the blind. 5. To set at libertay them that were bruised. 6. To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. i.e. Year of Release, or Year of Jubilee.. The year of Jubilee was the year of liberty, the year of redemption. Christ in the reconciliation became our Redeemer and all the liberties of the Jubilee year are available through His Work. The church also is joined with Christ in the "Jubilee" ministry in the preaching of the Gospel of redemption, proclaiming the atonement. It is significant that the "time" from Adam until now has been 6000 yrs.; that is 120 Jubilees approximately (120X50=6000.) The 6000 years speaks of the 6 Days of the Lord Psa. 90:4; 2 Pet. 3:8; Job 24:1; Gen. 2:17. The 7th day is a day of rest Rev. 20:1-6; Heb. Chaps. 3 & 4. The number 120 points to the end the age of flesh also and the reign of the Spirit...Gen. 6:3; 2 Chron. 5:12-14.; Acts 1: 15; 2:4. The ultimate fulfilment of all that took place under the Jubilee year will take place at the second coming of Christ. The earth will be redeemed and come into full and complete rest from the curse brought upon it by Adam's sin. Complete restoration of man's lost inheritance will take place. God's people will be totally set free, set at liberty, from all sin, sickness and disease, death and the curse. Satan, the sorce of all these things, will be bound and true rest will be realized. Date: Friday, January 14, 2005 at 10:25:14 (CST) Page No :12 Study: Study 14 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD So, on the year of Jubilee the trumpet proclaiming liberty was to sound throughout the land. This "trumpet" was to sound on the great "Day of Atonement" of this fiftieth year. With the cleansing of the nation, the priesthood and the Sanctuary, liberty could now sound throughout all Israel. Several significant things took place in this year of Jubilee, all of which Christ came to fulfil in His atoning work. A. Liberty was to be claimed throughout the land unto all the inhabitants. The Lord Jesus began His ministry "proclaiming liberty to the captives" in the acceptable year of the Lord Isa. 61:1-13; Luke 4:18-21. Pentecost, the fiftieth day was also a day of liberty and rejoicing. So the fiftieth year was of liberty and shouting. Christ came to bring liberty from all enslavement. Gal. 5:1; Rom. 6:18. B. The "fiftieth" year was a hallowed year, a sabbath year also for the land. No sowing or reaping was to be done. The land was to rest. The Lord promised that the land would be blessed that it would bring forth fruit in the sixth year to carry them over the seventh, the eighty and into the ninth year. That is to say, God's blessing would be so great, Israel would have enough fruit to carry them through the sabbaths and the Jublilee years. Lev. 25:18-22, 11,12. C. Every man was to return to his "possession". If he was poor and had lost or forfeited or sold his possession, his inheritance, then in the year of Jubilee he was able to possess it again. This was especially so if he was not able to redeem it or have it redeemed by a kinsman Redeemer. Lev. 25:13-17,23-34; Num. 36:4. D. All slaves were set free in this year. If a brother became poor and had to borrow money to live, or sell himself as a slave for service, then in the year of Jubilee he was set free unless some kinsman could redeem him between the Jubilee year. Lev. 25: 35-55. The sound of the trumpet of Jubilee was "the joyful sound" that blessed the people of God. Psa. 85:15. The Jubilee years were "the times of restitution" which the prophets also spoke about in the latter times. Acts 3:19-21. What a time of rejoicing in Israel as liberty was proclaimed by the sound of the silver trumpet in the land. Debts were cancelled, slaves were set free, families were reunited, lost and forfeited inheritances were restored. It was indeed a year of shouting. Date: Friday, January 07, 2005 at 09:48:48 (CST) Page No :11 Study: Study 14 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD The ultimate truth concerning the sprinkling of the blood seven times is that the blood of Jesus will bring the church to perfection. This perfection will be a sinless perfection. There is enough power in the blood of Jesus to do this for every believer. Every genuine Christian believes that the work of the cross will finally bring about the eradication of sin. Or in other words, sinless perfection. It is this state of perfection that every believer longs for and will experience throughout eternity. Many Scriptures could be listed on the benefits of the blood of Jesus. I'll list just a few. Hebrews the 9th chapter makes much of the blood of Jesus in heaven for us and the cleansing that it will bring to the church. If the blood of animals brought ceremonial cleansing, how much more perfect cleansing shall the blood of Jesus bring to us? A. Justified by His Blood. Rom. 5:9 B. Communion in His Blood 1 Corin. 10:16;11:25-27. C. Redemption through His Blood. Eph. 1:7. D. Access to God's Presence by the Blood. Eph. 2:13. E. Reconciliation through the Blood. Col. 1:14,20. F. Remission of sins through His Blood. Heb. 9:22. G. Covenantal relationship through the Blood. Heb. 10:29. H. Sanctification by the Blood. Heb. 13:20. I. Conscience purged by the Blood. Heb. 9:14. J. Cleansing through the Blood. 1 Jn. 1:7. K. Entrance within the veil by the Blood. Heb. 10:4, 19,20. L. Admission to heaven because the Blood is there. Heb. 9:7-25. M. Propitiation by the Blood. Rom. 3:25. N. Perfection by the Blood. Heb. 6:1; 7:11, 17-19; 10:1. O. Overcome satan by the Blood of the Lamb. Rev. 12:11. V111. THE DAY OF ATONEMENT AND THE JUBILEE YEAR: Lev. 25:8-55; Psa. 89:15 In concluding our Study on the Day of Atonement lets consider the laws pertaining to the Jubilee year. The Jubilee years were vitally connected with the Day of Atonement. Every 7th year was a Sabbath year, while every 50th year in Israel was Jubilee year. 7 Sabbaths of years passed (or7X7=49, and the following year, the 50th, was the Jubilee. Jubilee year was literally "the time of shouting". The Hebrew word "Yobel" (S.C.3104) coming from S.C. 2986 means "the blast of a horn" (from its continuous sound); specifically the signal of the silver trumpets; hence the instrument itself and the Festival thus introduced. It is translated "jubilee, ram's horn, trumpet." Date: Friday, December 31, 2004 at 10:26:58 (CST) Page No :10 Study: Study 14 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD D. Reconciliation: to make enemies friends after being at variance. It is the effect of the siner being made one with God. E. Atonement: the atonement was the official presentation fo God of the blood on the Mercy seat. Thus on the great Day of Atonement the truth of these words was seen in operation and all together they effected "the reconciliation." The Sin Offerings became the ransom, the price of Israel's redemption. They were the propitiation to avert God's wrath and secure mercy. When Aaron entered within the veil and officially presented the BLOOD to God on the Mercyseat, this was the atonement. And the effect of all was the reconciliation of Israel as a nation to God ! All of this was fulfilled in the sacrifice of Christ on Calvary. At Calvary we see ransom, redemption and propitiation taking place, as He presented His body and blood on Calvary's altar and suffered for our sins. In His ascension to the Father's throne, into the heavenly Sanctuary, within the veil, we see the actual atonement and the effect of the atonement. The Atonement then was the official presentation of the THE BLOOD OF JESUS at the throne of God in heaven. The effect of this in the church and upon all who believe is THE RECONCILIATION ! The ultimate of the Day of Atonement will bring about full reconciliation of man with His God, both Creator and Redeemer ! The Cross was the brazen altar where the sacrifice of Christ took place. The Throne was the Ark of the Covenant where the sacrifice of Christ, His body and blood, were presented. It is this which comprehends the Day of Atonement. Read....Rom. 5:11; John 17:21; 2 Corin. 5:20; Col.1:10-21; Dan. 9:24-27; Heb. 2:17,18. VII. THE POWER OF THE BLOOD JESUS: On the day of Atonement the blood of the Sin Offering was sprinkled "7 Times". As seen already, 7 is the number of fulness, completeness and perfection. Date: Friday, December 24, 2004 at 10:16:06 (CST) Page No :9 Study: Study 14 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD 5. The Scapegoat was used to subdue Azazel, the evil spirit. Christ and His Church are the only agents associated in the ministry of subduing satan and his wicked hosts Mark 16: 15-20; Rev. 12: 1-12. 6. The Scapegoat was involved in the sending away of sin, in the minsitry of for- giveness. Christ and His church are involved in the forgiveness of sins, James 5: 15-17; Acts 7:60; Mark 16: 19,20; 2 Corin. 5: 18-21; Luke 24: 49; John 20: 22,23. 7. The Scapegoat was taken outside the camp bearing the reproaches of Israel upon it. So the church is called to go outside the camp bearing the reproaches of Christ. Heb. 13: 10-13. People in society often refer to somebody who takes someone elses reproach as being "the scapegoat". The church certainly bears the reproach of Christ in this world, Rom.15: 3; Heb. 11: 26; Luke 6: 22; 1 Peter 4: 14; Zep. 2:8. 8. The Scapegoat was eventually taken into the Wilderness by the hand of a fit man. It was then let go alive in a land uninhabited, a land of separation..Lev. 16: 22. (Margin).. So the church is taken into a wilderness, a place prepared of God, and preserved alive in the last days of this age..Rev. 12: 1-6, 13-16; Son of Songs 3:6; 8:6; Luke 21: 34-36. VI. THE ATONEMENT OR RECONCILIATION: The key word in the great chapter in Lev. 16 is the word "atonement". This word is used at least 14 times in this chapter, generally in the singular and yet sometimes the word is used in the plural..Note...Ex. 30:10; Lev. 17: 11-14; Rom. 5: 11. The basic meaning of the word "Atonement" is "reconciliation". Where it is translated "atonement" in Rom. 5: 11 it should be translated "the reconciliation". There are various words relative to the full meaning of the atonement yet no one word on its own supplies the full significance, yet all together give us the thoughts of God on the matter. These theological words are noted briefly here in order to help us understand and appreciate more fully the work accomplished on the Day of Atonement, both historically and prohetically. A. Redemption.....To buy back again with a price out of the hands of another. B. Ransom..........The price paid in the transaction of redemption. C. Propitiation....The sacrifice offered to God to avert wrath and secure mercy. Date: Friday, December 17, 2004 at 10:25:17 (CST) Page No :8 Study: Study 14 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD If this is so, then it is certainly fulfilled in the ministry of Christ. In His death, burial, resurrection and ascension He conquered satan and all his hosts. The ultimate victory of Calvary over satan will be manifested when satan is cast into the Lake of Fire, when all his hosts are eternally subdued. The basis of the victory is the Atonement. B. Fulfilment in the Church: The other aspect of truth concerning the Scapegoat finds its fulfilment in the Church. The dual sacrifices in the previous Feast pointed to Christ in His Church. The two birds offered in the cleansing of the leper pointed to Christ and His Church, the only two agents involved in cleasning of the lepers Lev. 14. The two trumpets used on special occasions pointed to Christ and His ministries. Num. 10:1-10. And here the two goats point to both Christ and His church involved in the ministry of reconciliation. Of course, it is to be understood that any sacrifice offered for sin can only and ever typity Christ the sinless sacrificed one. But when there is association of another with that one then it can also symbolize the church, for Christ and His Body are really inseparable. Many times what is said of Christ is also said of the Church, His Body Note: John 8:12; Matt. 5:14; John 6:48-51; 1 Corin. 10:15-17. We ask : In what way then may the church be identified with the Scapegoat ministry? The following number of ways answer such.... 1. The Scapegoat was presented before Jehovah along with the Lord's goat. So the church is presented before God with Christ. 2. The Scapegoat was also to be without spot or blemish with the Lord's goat. So Christ and His Church are both without spot or blemish. 1 Pet. 1-18-Chap.2; Eph. 5:26,27. 3. The Scapegoat shared with the Lord's goat in the ministry of reconciliation. Only Christ and His Church have been given the ministry of reconciliation. Heb. 2:17; 2 Corin. 5:17-21. 4. The Scapegoat "lived" to reconcile while the Lord's goat "died" to reconcile. So the Church lives to reconcile man to God while Christ died to bring reconciliation. Date: Friday, December 10, 2004 at 10:35:22 (CST) Page No :7 Study: Page 7Study 14 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD V. THE TWO GOATS: As seen in the historical-typical ceremony two goats were involved in the Day of Atonement, in the ministry of reconciliation. We are referred to the dual offerings as noted under the comments on the Feast of Pentecost.. Here again in the dual offerings of the goats there seems to be a "double type" to find fulfilment in Christ and the Church. A. Fulfilment in Christ: 1. The Goat of Jehovah: The goat chosen by lot for Jehovah was killed. This goat "died" to reconcile. Its blood was sprinkled within the veil on the Mercy Seat. This pointed to the "death" of Jesus, who was "the Lord's goat" and our Sin Offering. He died to reconcile us to God. His blood was brought into the heavenly Sanctuary, within the veil. The writer to the Hebrews shows how this was fulfilled in Christ's sacrifice. Heb. 13:11-13; 9:1-14. 2. The Goat for Azazel: We see that the Scapegoat or the goat for Azazel was also symbolic of Christ's ministry. The Lord's goat symbolized "Christ in His death".... He died to reconcile. The scapegoat symbolized "Christ in His resurrection"...He lives to reconcile. The scapegoat after the laying on of hands was sent by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness bearing away the sins, transgressions, iniquities and uncleanness of Israel. The word "forgiveness" conveys the truth of the Scapegoat ministry. The word "forgiveness" means "to send away, to bear or carry away.". So Christ then, in His death and resurrection died for our sins, and carried them right away, never to be remembered any more. Luke 7:21; Acts 3:14; 25:11, 16; Eph. 4:32; Col. 2:13; 3:13; 1Jn. 1:9; 2:12; Psa. 103:3; Jere. 31:31-34. The meaning of the word "Scapegoat" of Azazel in Hebrew is: "the goat for departure"; the goat for going away. It signifies entire removal. It has been suggested that Azazel means "the evil one". That is to say that the goat for Azazel was the goat to subdue the evil one, that is, satan. Date: Friday, December 03, 2004 at 08:40:51 (CST) Page No :6 Study: Study 14 The 7 Feasts of the Lord IV. THE GLORY OF THE LORD: Entrance within the veil, by the power of incense and the atoning blood brought Aaron into the very Presence and Glory of the Lord. The Hebrews refer to this visible manifestation of God's presence as "The Shekinah". It was only on this Day of Atonement that Aaron entered into that Glory of the Lord. In fulfilment of this we see the Lord Jesus in His Ascension was "received up into glory". 1 Tim. 3: 16., and He was glorified with the Glory which He had with the Father before the world began. John 17:1-5; 24-26. It is also significant of the fact that as the church enters the experience of the Day of Atonement there will be an entrance into the glory of the Lord. His glory shall be seen upon the church. The church will be changed "from glory to glory' 2 Corin. 3:15-18.. Even on this earth various saints have experienced measures of the glory of God. A. The Glory of God appeared to Abraham. Acts 7:2. B. The Glory of the Lord appeared to Israel. Ex. 16:7,10; 24:16,17. C. The Glory of the Lord filled both Tabernacles and Temple in the day of dedication. Ex.40:34,35.; 1 Ki. 8:11; 2 Chron. 5:14. D. Moses beheld the Glory of the Lord and had that same glory seen upon his face. Ex. 33 with 2 Corin. 3. E. Jesus also shone with the Glory of God on the Mt. of Transfiguration Matt. 17: 1-8; 2 Pet. 1:17,18; Mark 9:1. F. Stephen's face shone with the glory of God also. Acts 7:55. G. The chruch is to shine with the Glory of God aslo. Isa. 60: 1-3; Rev. 12:1 Rom. 8:18; Col. 1:27; Eph. 5:27. The Glory of the New Covenant is far greater than Glory of the Old Covenant 2 Corin. 3 and 4. It is in this way that the Glory of the Lord will fill all the earth also. Num. 14:21; Isa. 6:3; Hab. 2:14; Isa. 40:5. V. THE TWO GOATS: As seen in the historical-typical ceremony two goats were involved in the Day of Atonement, in the ministry of reconciliation. Lets look to the dual offerings as noted under the comments on the Feast of Pentecost. Here again in the dual offerings of the goats there seems to be a "double type" to find fulfilment in Christ and the Church. Date: Friday, November 26, 2004 at 08:49:22 (CST) Page No :5 Study: Study 14 The 7 Feasts of the Lord A. Christ within the Veil: When Christ ascended up on high to heaven, presented His blood and then took His place at the Father's right hand , this fulfilled the type of entrance within the veil. The Lord Jesus ascended on high and entered with the veil of the heavenly Sanctuary. He is there and remains within the veil, hidden from human view during this church period. At His second coming He will come forth from the heavenly Sanctuary in flaming fire and glory to receive His own unto Himself and judge all outside Himself, John 20:17; 16:27,28; Eph. 1:17; 4:8-10; Prov. 30:1-4; Psa. 68:18; Mark 16:19,20; Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:9-11; Heb. 4:14; 8:1,2; 9:11-14, 24-28. Christ risen, ascended and glorified is the Forerunner into the heavenly Sanctuary, within the veil Heb. 6:17-20. This is the Order of Melchisedek. Others will follow Him who is the Forerunner. This was Christ fulfiling "The Day of Atonement" in the Heavenly Sanctuary. B. The Believer within the Veil: There is also within this great aspect a dual aspect concerning the believer entering within the veil. This pertains to the living believer as well as the believer who dies and goes to be with the Lord. 1. The Living Believer: All believers have the privilege in prayer and in spirit to enter "into the Holiest of All" by the blood of Jesus, the new and living way Heb. 6:17-20; 9:8-10; 10:19-22. All believers have access into the Presence of God by the Spirit, Eph. 2:11-18 and in this way enter within the veil. However, there is a fulness in this experience that the church has yet to enter into and this is what is typified in the Day of Atonement. We will be able to read and sing many of the great Hymns and Songs of the church which speak of this experience of entrance "within the veil". 2. The Dead in Christ Believer: When a believer dies and goes to be with the Lord, his redeemed spirit goes to heaven and certainly experiences entrance with the veil, into heaven's Sanctuary. It is here that the Spirit of just men made perfect are awaiting the coming of the Lord and their immortalized bodies. Heb. 12:22-24; Phil 3:20,21; Luke 16:20-22; Phil. 1:23. Date: Friday, November 19, 2004 at 09:16:38 (CST) Page No :4 Study: Study 14 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD 2. The Church His Sanctuary: There is another aspect of the truth of the Sanctuary. This pertains to the Church. The Church also is God's Sanctuary. His earthly Sanctuary. His dwelling place by the Spirit.. 1 Corin. 3:16; 2 Corin. 6:16; Eph. 2:20-22; 1 Pet. 2: 5-9. The church has yet to come into the full power of the atoning work of Christ which was accomplished on Calvary. As far as God is concerned all was finished at Calvary. God saw a "finished work" John 17: 4; 19:30. This is spoken of as judicial truth. But as far as the believer is concerned individually, and the church corporately, we have yet to enter by faith into that finished work. This is spoken of as experiential truth. As the church experienced Passover truths, and Pentecost truths, so she will experience Tabernacle truths. All will be upon the basis of Christ's finished work on Calvary. Such experience will be the Day of Atonement for the church. What Christ has done for us historically will be fulfilled in us experientally. Hence there has been two aspects of God's Sanctuary; the heavenly and the earthy. This was true in the Old Testament Israel. It is true in the New Testament Israel, the church. III. Entrance within the Veil: As with each of the Feasts there is that which is historical which Christ has fulfilled in Himself, and there is that which is spiritual and finds fulfilment in the church, so it is with the truth of entrance "within the veil". There is that which relates to Christ and that which relates to the church. On the great Day of Atonement Aaron entered within the veil. Hebrews show the fulfilment of this in the ministry of Christ. As long as the veil of the Tabernacle or Temple stood, the Holy Spirit was signifying that "the way into the Holiest of All was not yet made manifest while the first tabernacle was yet standing; which was a figure for the time present.. Heb. 9:7-9 When Jesus died on the cross, the veil of the Temple was miraculously rent from top to the bottom by God Himself. Matt. 27:51,52.. It signified that the way into God's Presence was now open to all who believe in God through Christ, Believers can come to God through the veil of Christ's flesh and blood Heb. 10:19-22. The rending of the veil of the Temple was connected with the rending of the veil of Christ's flesh, Chirst's temple. John 2: 18-22. We consider here also the twofold aspect of "entrance within the veil" as pertaining to Chirst and His Chruch. Date: Friday, November 12, 2004 at 09:15:15 (CST) Page No :3 Study: Study 14 The 7 Feasts of the Lord c. This heavenly Sanctuary, as the original, cast its shadow on earth. The earthly Tabernacle of Moses and the Temple of Solomon were the material: expressions of such. They were the earthly types of the heavenly prototype. Heb. 8:1-5; 9:1-10. d. The heavenly Sanctuary consists of three heavens, even as the Tabernacle and Temple had three "holy places" The words "heaven" or "heavens", and "place and "places used in Hebrews 9:12, 23,24 confirm this thought. The first heaven (to man) is the atomospheric heaven; the second heaven is the planetary heaven, and the third heaven is the immediate Presence of God, the Paradise of God. This is the heaven of heavens where Paul saw and heard unspeakable things. 2 Corin. 12:1-4, Rev. 2:7; 22:14. (We too, can have this same experience that Paul had.)....Solomon recognized that the Temple as God's earthly house could not contain God, let alone heaven and the heavens, God's real dwelling place. 1 Ki. 8:27-30; Isa. 66:1; Acts 7:49; 17:24. e. As Aaron had to cleanse the Sanctuary on the Day of Atonement in its three places, so the heavens have to be cleansed. The reason why the heavenly Sanctuary, God's dwelling place, needed cleansing was because of sin. As the earthly Sanctuary had to be cleansed because of Israel's sins, transgressions, iniquities and uncleanness, so the heavenly Sanctuary has to be cleansed. Sin Originated in Heaven. It was at the very throne of God that the "mystery of iniquity" began in Satan and the fallen angels. The heavens have been defiled by sinning angels. Job himself said "the heavcens are not clean in Thy sight" Job. 15:15; 4:18; 25:5. It is not that the angels will be redeemed, for they sinned as spirit begins in the blazing white light of God's holiness and Christ did not die to redeem them. However, heaven has been defiled by their sinful presence and thus has to be cleansed. The power of the atoning blood of Jesus will do this. This is seen to be the teaching of the Book of Hebrews. Heb. 8:1-5; 9:1-28. The Book of Revelation also shows a time when the devil and all his angels are cast out of the heavens to the earth. At this time the heavens are told to rejoice because the accuser of the bretheren is cast down. The believers are overcomer's through the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony ..Rev. 12:1-12. It is here that the atonement manifests its supreme power in the cleansing of the heavenly Sanctuary of the presence of the orginator of sin in the universe. Thus, this is the first aspect of the "cleansing of the Sanctuary". Date: Friday, November 05, 2004 at 10:49:53 (CST) Page No :2 Study: Study 14 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD II. THE MINISTRY OF ATONEMENT: Uner the historical and typical Day of Atonement, Aaron had to make atonement for himself, then his household, then the nation and finally the Sanctuary. In contrast and comparison we note the follwoing relative to Christ, our Great High Priest. A. No Atonement for Christ: As far as Christ was concerned He did not need the atonement. He was God incarnate. He was born of the virgin. He was sinless and perfect in thought, word, and deed and needed no redemption from sin. If He had sin then He could not be our Saviour and Redeemer. Aaron needed atonement as he was a sinful and imperfect priest. Christ needed no atonement for He was a righteous and perfect Priest.Heb. 5:1-6; 7:22-28. Thus, the antitype far surpasses the type. B. Atonement for His House and the Nation: Here we have further comparison. As Aaron atoned for his priestly household and then the nation of Israel, so Christ made atonement for His household, the church, and all believers, who, since the cross, constitute the Israel of God. "The holy nation and royal priesthood" after the order of Melchisedek. Heb. 5:1-6; 1 Peter 2:5-9; Heb. 3:1-6; 7:11-28; 8:1-4; 9:11-15; Rev. 1:6; 5: 9,10; Eph. 2:11-13; Gal. 6:16. C. Atonement for the Sanctuary: The third area involved in the Day of Atonement ceremonies was "the cleansing of the Sanctuary". Dan. 8: 13,14. The Book of Heb. deals much with this area of Christ's ministry. It deals with the cleansing of the true and heavenly Sanctuary. This is a truth that is not always perceived by believers. The scriptures show two aspects of God's Sanctuary. Let us note the truth of the things under their respective sub-headings. 1. The Heavenly Sanctuary... a. There is a heavenly Tabernacle, or heavenly Temple. This is the TRUE Sanctuary, the original ..Heb. 8:1,2; Rev. 11: 19; 13:6; 15:5-8. b. This heavenly Sanctuary is the dwelling place of God, Of Christ and the elect angles. Date: Friday, October 29, 2004 at 10:33:25 (CDT) Page No :1 Study: Study 14 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD "THE NEW TESTAMENT INTERPRETATION IN HEBREWS" There is no mistaking the interpretation of the ceremony of the Day of Atonement. The New Testament, especially the Epistle to the Hebrews is basically given over to the symbolic significance for this day. We take the major points of the ceremony which have not been interpreted in the course of following the Old Testament outline and see how the Book of Hebrews interprets such for us. I. THE SACRIFICES: All sacrifices and oblations pointed to the perfect and supreme sacrifice of Jesus Christ. As noted earlier, the animal sacrifice were brought in as a substitute for man's sin until THE sacrifice and oblation came Himself to put away sin. Thus, the sacrifices of all Feast Days, Sabbaths as well as the Daily Sacrifice were all fulfilled and abolished by the one sacrifice of Christ. His body and blood caused the sacrifice and oblation to cease. This fulfilled the prophetic word that Messiah would come and "cause the sacrifice and oblation to cease." Dan. 9:27 with Heb. 10:1-10. Again, it is to be noted that there were MANY sacrifices, untold thousands, offered upon the altars. In contrast to the many is the ONE sacrifce of Christ offered on Calvary's altar. Those priests stood daily offering oftentimes the same sacrifice which could never take away sins, but Christ Jesus offered one sacrifice for sin ONCE-FOR-ALL...Heb. 10:11-14. Above all this is the fact that no ANIMAL sacrifice can cleasnse the sin of MAN. thus when Jesus died, He was presented as a HUMAN sacrifice for the sin of man. Therefore His sacrifice is totally, absolutely and supremely seen to be above all animal sacrifices and offerings. Calvary is the altar of God upon which His Son was offered. There is no further sacrifce for sin to be made. None can add up to take away from this finished work, as far as Christ's sacrifice is concerned. It is perfect, full and complete. John 17:4; 19-30. This is an historical and doctrinal fact never ever to be repeated. Chirst dies for sin no more, death has no more dominion over Him. The atonement has been made. However, as far as the believer is concerned, and the church as a whole, we have yet to enter into and receive the full benefits of the atonement of Christ. There is no believer living upon the face of the earth that can claim to have experienced fully the COMPLETE ATONEMENT ! Jesus went to the Passovers, and the Pentecosts, but did not go to Tabernacles...This He will, at His 2nd coming. The first 2 are complete in Spiritual experience. But tabernacles is only a foretaste so far. John 7:6-10. It is the understanding between that which is referred to as "judicial truth" and experiential truth" that shows the twofold aspect of the work of Christ. The walk of faith is that which bridges both aspects. It is this which is to be understood in the work of the Day of Atonement as pertaining to the church. Date: Friday, October 22, 2004 at 10:18:18 (CDT) Page No :11 Study: Study 13 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD III. The Anointed High Priest: Lev. 16:29-34 Only the High Priest who was anointed and consecrated to minister in his Father's stead could make the atonement. This anointed High Priest made the atonement for all other priests, for all the congregation of Israel and the Sancturary of the Lord. The Lord Jesus Christ is our Great High Priest, anointed in His Father's stead to make the reconciliation for the church, the New Testament priestly Body.. 1 Pet. 2:5-9; Rev. 1:6; 5:9,10. The difference between Aaron and Christ is this. Aaron and his animal sacrifices were two separate Identities, sinful and inferior, Christ is both Priest and Sacrifice in His two natures, yet one undiveided Person, sinless and superior. In His Diivine nature He is the Priest; in His human nature He is the Sacrifice. So then Christ (the Priest) offered Himself (the Sacrifice) for us. Gal. 2:20; Eph. 5:25-27; Heb. 8:1-4; 9:11-15. IV. An Everlasting Statute: Lev. 16: 29,34 The Day of Atonement ceremony was to be "an everlasting state" in Israel on the appointed day of the year. Anything under the Old Covenant that was "everlasting" can only find its true fulfilment in and through the New Covenant, and "everlastng life" as found in Christ. All of the things pertaining to the Old Covenant were temporal and typical, but the things under the New Covenant are spiritual and eternal. Christ lives in the "power of an endless life " Heb. 7:16 and it is only in this way can the atonement be an "everlasting statute". The redeemed will eternally remember the atoning work of Christ, thus fulfilling the "everlasting state" of the Day of Atonement. Rev. 4:8-11; 5:1-14. V. The Atonement for Sins, Transgressions, Iniquities and Uncleanness: Lev. 16:16, 21; Dan. 9: 24-27. In the ceremony of the Day of Atonement "all iniquties" and "all sins" and "all transgressions" as well as "all uncleanness" were fully atoned for. The ministry of reconciliation too care of all these evil things in the natrue of fallen man. Each of these words show some facet of the fallen nature of man and that which needs the atonement, or the reconciliation. A. Iniquity...Vanity, perverseness of spirit. Mt. 23:38; Tutus 2:14; Isa.53:5,5,10; 59:12. B. Sin.... To err, to m iss the mark, go astray, to fall 1 Jn. 3:4; 5:17; James 4:17; Rom. 14:23. C. Transgression...Rebellion, lawlessness, deceive, trespass. Isa. 58:1; 1 Jn. 3:4; Dan. 8:23. D. Uncleanness:...Foulness, defiled, pollution (moral and physical), Lev. 14:57; Num.19:7-22.; 2 Corin. 12:21. The Lord Jesus Christ, by His own sinless and atoning blood, has provided cleansing and reconciliation to God for His people. By the power of His redeeming blood, all sin, iniquity, transgressions and uncleanness shall be fully cleansed from the church in the great Day of Atonement, and at the coming of Christ. THANK YOU Y'SHUA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......... End of Study 13 Date: Friday, October 15, 2004 at 10:30:06 (CDT) Page No :10 Study: Study 13 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD I. The Scapegoat...Lev. 16:8,10,20-22,26 When the atonement was completed as to his household, the nation and the Sanctuary, then the live goat fulfilled its function in the ceremony. After Aaron had come out from the Tabernacle of the Congregation, he then laid his hands on the head of the live goat. As he did this symbolic act, he confessed over the goat all the sins, iniquities, transgressions and uncleannesses of Israel. When this was completed, the Scapegoat (or "goat for sending away") was taken by the hand of a fit man into the Wilderness. The goat was to bear away all the iniquities of the people into a land uninhabited, or a land of separation. There the fit man was to release the goat of the Wilderness. Upon his return to the camp he was to bathe himself wholly in water and then take his place in the camp of the Lord and of Israel. The symbolic truth concerning the Scapegoat will be dealt with in due time under the antitypical fulfilment in Christ and His Church. J. The Bodies without the Camp: Lev. 16: 23-28. After the Scapegoat had been sent into the Wilderness by the hand of the fit man, Aaron entered into the Holy Place, washed himself and changed his garments. Then he took the fat of the Sin Offering, burnt it on the Altar in the Outer Court, for the fat belonged exclusively to the Lord for His altar Lev. 4:9,10; 1 Sam. 2:16. However, the BODIES of the Sin Offering, both the bullock and the goat, were taken by a fit man outside the camp where all was burnt. The skins, the flesh and dung were wholly burnt. The person who did this was then to return to the camp, wash his clothes bathe his flesh in water and then enter again into the fellowship of the Israel nation. The writer to the Heb. takes this up and clearly shows how Christ fulfilled the Sin Offering. For He went "outside the camp" of Jerusalem, after His rejection. Here on Golgotha He was crucified. His body was indeed outside the camp. It was not burnt physically, as it was incorruptible, but it did suffer the consuming fires of God's holiness and righteousness against sin. Heb. 12:29; 13:10-13. Date: Friday, October 08, 2004 at 11:05:44 (CDT) Page No :9 Study: Study 13 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD H. The Seven Times Sprinkling of the Blood: Lev. 16: 14 The sprinkling of the Blood 7 times on the Mercy Seat was prophetic of perfect atonement that Christ would bring to His people. Throughout the scriptures the theme of "The Seven Times" becomes prophetic of the end of the age and that which finds its ultimate in the seventh day of the Lord, the Kingdom age. The following are some of the examples of these "Seven Times" prophecies, the number seven speaking of fulness, perfection and the close of the present age as ushered in by Christ's 2nd Coming.. 1. Jacob bowed to Esau "Seven Times" Gen. 33: 3. 2. Blood was sprinkled "Seven Times" in Lev. 4:6; 8:11; 14:7; 16:14-17. 3. Israel was to be punished "Seven Times" for her sins. Lev. 26: 18,21,24,28. 4. The walls of Jericho were compassed about "Seven Times" before its collapse. Josh. 6: 4-15. 5. Elijah prayed and then after "Seven Times" great rain fell. 1 Ki. 18:43. 6. The furnace of persecution was heated "Seven Times" when the Hebrew believers were cast in and preserved. Dan. 13: 19. 7. Naaman immersed himself "Seven Times" before his healing took place 2Ki.5:10. 8. Oil was sprinkled "Seven Times" in the cleansing of the leper. Lev. 14:16-18. 9. Forgiveness is to be beyond "Seven Times" Mt. 18: 21,22. So, the "Seven Times" sprinkling of blood becomes a shadow of things to come, symbolic, prophetic of the perfection that the blood of Jesus will bring to His Church in the end times and at His coming. In the Passover Feast the blood was sprinkled upon the door. In the Pentecost Feast the blood was sprinkled on the people and the Covenant Book. In Tabernacles the blood was sprinkled seven times on the Mercy Seat. The Day of Atonement in the Church will be the fullest manifestation of the power of the blood of Jesus. It will bring the church to perfection, making an end of all sin, all iniquity, all transgressions and all sins of ignorance and all uncleanness. Date: Friday, October 01, 2004 at 10:42:56 (CDT) Page No :8 Study: Study 13 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD 3. Atonement for the Sanctuary: Lev. 16: 16-20, 23 After making atonement for himself and his household and then the nation, Aaron then made atonement for the Sanctuary and its furnishings. This day is called by the Prophet Daniel "The Cleansing of the Sanctuary". Dan. 8: 13,14. The Holy Place or the Tabernacle of the Congregation was atoned for. The Most Holy Place or the Holy Sancturary was atoned for. And then the golden altar of incense was atoned for Ex. 30: 1-10. After the golden altar of incense was atoned for, Aaron sprinkled the blood of atonements 7 times on it., cleansing and allowing it from Israel's uncelanness. The horns of the altar were also sprinkled with atoning blood. The significance of this threefold work of atonement will be interpreted when we consider the New Testament fulfilment as set forth in the Book of Heb... F. Aaron alone makes the Atonement: Lev. 16:17 When Aaron the High Priest fulfilled the atoning work, he was to enter alone, and no person was to be with him. He ministered alone in the supreme work of reconciliation. None could help him. So it pointed to the fact that Christ alone could reconcile man to God. Of the people, none could be with Him or help Him. Heb. 9:7. Even in His second coming there are areas of judgement that He alone will perform. Isa. 63: 1-6. G. Entrance witin the Veil: Lev. 16: 2,12,15 It is to be seen that only on this day did Aaron enter "within veil". The veil of the Tabernacle acted as a divider between the Holy Place and the Holiest of All. It signified a separation between God and Man that could only be bridged by the work of atonement Ex. 26: 31,32. None dare presume to enter within the veil except on the appointed day, once a year. It seems as if Aaron's two sons tried to presume within the veil on the day of dedication when the Glory of God fell. For this sin God judged them with death and then gave the details of the Day of Atonement and how Aaron should come within the veil. Compare: Lev. 9:22-24; 10:1-11; 16:1,2. The Book of Heb. takes this up for us and shows how Christ has entered "within the veil" and made it possible for the believer to do so too, because He is the Forerunner, the TYPE, THE SHADOW of things to come..Heb. 10: 19-22; Matt. 27:51,52; Heb. 6: 18-20. Date: Friday, September 24, 2004 at 07:49:47 (CDT) Page No :7 Study: Study 13 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD 3. Two kids of the goasts for a Sin Offering...one goat for the Lord and the other goat for the people. 4. One ram for a Burnt Offering...for the people. Additional offerings as in Num. 29:7-11 were: a. Burnt Offerings...young bullock, a ram, and 7 lambs of the first year. b. Meal Offerings appropriate to each of the blood sacrifices. c. Sin Offerings...a kid of the goats. d. The Daily Sacrifices of a Burnt, Meal and Drink Offering. The intricate details of these offeringss is given in Lev. Chap. 1-7. All these sacrifices point to the one perfect and once for all sacrifice of Jesus Christ. No one offering was complete in itself to set forth all the intricate glories and perfections of Christ as to His Person and Work. E. The Atoning Ministry. The actual work of atonement falls into three main areas: that which pertains to Aaron and his household, and that which pertains to the nation, and that which pertains to the Sanctuary. 1. Atonement for Aaron and his Household...Lev. 16: 3-14 Aaron, first of all, offered a bullock for a Sin Offering for himself and his own house, thus making atonement for his own household. vs. 3,6. After this he presented the two goats before the Lord, casting lots as to which goat was for the Lord in sacrifice and which goat would be taken into the wilderness and released vs. 5, 7-10. After this Aaron was to take the blood of the bullock for his Sin Offering and enter within the veil, sprinkle the blood on the Mercy seat eastward and then 7 times before the Mercy seat. All of this was done amidst the rising cloud of incense from the golden censer vs. 11-14. In this way Aaron made atonement for his own sins, and the sins of his household. 2. Atonement for the Nation: Lev. 16:15. Aaron then killed the Lord's goat for a Sin Offering. This was the offering for the people of Israel. He did with the blood of this goat what he did with the blood of the bullock: he entered withing the veil, into the Holiest of All, and sprinkled the blood on the Mercy of the Ark of the Covenant and then 7 times before the Mercy seat. In this way the Nation of Israel was atoned for. Date: Friday, September 17, 2004 at 10:50:15 (CDT) Page No :6 Study: Study 13 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD Again the scripture interprets the symbolic act here. The ceremonial washing of water in the Old Testament pointed to the "washing of water by the Word". It also involves the washing of regeneration Eph. 5:26,27; Titus 3:5; John 3:1-5;15:3; 1 Corin. 6:11; Heb. 10:22; Psa. 51:7. For Aaron it meant that he must be absolutely clean in order to make the atone- ment in behalf of the people. For Christ it meant that He was absolutely clean and sinlessly perfect when He made the atonement for His people. For the believer it means that they must be washed in the water of the Word in their approach into the Presence of the Lord. C. The Linen Garments: Lev. 16:4,23 On this day Aaron laid aside the "garments of glory and beauty" Ex. 28:1-5 and put on linen garments. He was wholly clothed in white linen as he made the atone- ment. He had on linen breeches, a linen coat, a linen girdle and a linen mitre. They were called "the holy garments". After making the atonement for the Sanctuary and washing in the Holy Place, he was then to change back into his garments of gloryh and beauty. How wonderfully Christ fulfilled the "Type" in Himself. For He laid aside His reputation, emptying Himself of His glory and taking upon Himself the form of a servant, was made in the likeness of men. But He was a perfectly righteous man. The fine linen garments are interpreted as Divine righteousness, both of Christ and the righteousness with which the saints are clothed Rev. 3:4,5; 15:6; 19:7,8; Psa. 132:9; Isa. 61:10; John 17: 1-5. The linen garments symbolize the righteous and sinless humanity with which Christ clothed Himself, while the garments of glory and beauty speak of that glory which He had with the Father before the world began. D. The sacrifices of That Day: Lev. 16:3, 5-11, 14-28; Num. 29:7-11 There were special sacrifices offered on this day, besides the daily sacrifice. These offerings were as follows: 1. A young bullock for a Sin Offering...for Aaron himself and his house. 2. A ram for a Burnt Offering...for Aaron himself. Date: Friday, September 10, 2004 at 08:15:33 (CDT) Page No :5 Study: Study 13 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD A. The Golden Censer Ministry..Lev. 16:1,2, 12-14; Heb. 9:4 The Lord commanded that Aaron not come into the Holiest of All at all times but only on this one day during the year. Even then he was to take the golden censer, and with his hands full of sweet incense bring it within the veil. As he entered within the veil, placing the incense on the fiery coals of the censer, a cloud of incense ascended, covering the Ark of Glory. Aaron dare not enter into the Most Holy Place of the Tabernacle without the rising cloud of incense. The symbolism of the incense is clearly interpreted for us both in the Old and in the New Testament, Incense and its ingrediants always speaks of prayer and its essential ingredients. Aaron the High Priest typifies the ministry of the Mediator and Intercessor. David said: "Let my prayer be set forth before Thee as incense.."Psa. 141:2.Read also Rev. 5:8; 8: 1-5. Rising incense speaks of the ascending prayers of the saints before God. This finds it fulfilment in Christ and the Church. Christ Jesus is our Mediator and Intercessor. He ever lives to make intercession for the saints according to the will of God Heb. 7:24,25; Rom. 8:34; 1 Tim. 2:5; 1 John 2:1. Since Christ's ascension to the throne of His Father, the prayers and intercessions in behalf of His own are presented continually before the Father God in the heavenly and true Sanctuary. The prayers of the saints also ascend "within the veil", acceptable to God through Christ. It is in prayer and intercession that the beliver approaches God. At the first coming of Christ there was a revelation given to Zacharias at the golden altar of incense while the multitude were praying without. As the second coming of Christ approaches the spirit of prayer and supplicaton will again increase in the Church. The book of Rev. 8:1-5 intimates this as it alludes to the Day of Atonement cermony in this passage. Thus, in fulfilment of the golden censer ministry, we see the prayers and intercessions of both Christ and the Church. All will increase as the Day of Atonement approaches. B. The Washing of Water: Lev. 16:4,24 On this day there was the special washing of water in preparation for the sacrificial offerings. Aaron washed before he entered the Sanctuary and then washed again in the Holy Place after Sancturay had been cleansed Date: Friday, September 03, 2004 at 10:56:18 (CDT) Page No :4 Study: Study 13 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD D. A Day of Solemn Assembly: Joel 2:15-17; Num. 10:10 The Day of Atonement was also the calling of a Solemn Assembly. There were days of gladness and rejoicing in other Festivals but this day was was the most Solemn day, a time of mourning and deep afflection. The Psalmist said: "Blow up the trumpet in the New Moon, in the time appointed, on our solemn Feast Day"...Psa. 81:3. The Church also may expect times of solemn assembly, when the Lord calls by the trumpet voice to affliction of soul, to times and seasons of special prayer, intercession and fasting before Him so that His purposes may be fulfilled in and through the Church. E. The 10th Day of the 7th Month...Lev. 23:27; Num. 29:7. The significance of numbers may be seen here in the fact that the Day of Atonement took place on the 10th day of the 7th mo. This day brought all the nation of Israel together at the Tabernacle door, at the Sanctuary of the Lord for the great cleansing and reconciliation. Lev. 16:29,30. 1. Seven.. is the number of fulness and completness and perfection. Thus the 7th month completed the Feasts of the Lord and the Sacred year in Israel. Seven is also the number of Rest, so this month brought Israel to fulness of rest through atonement. 2. Ten..is the number of testing, trial, law and order, and also responsibility before the Lord (Rev. 2:10; Dan. 1:12). The 10 days between the day of blowing of Trumpets and the day of Atonement were days of preparation, and all were responsible to be ready for this great day. It was the beginning of the days of Preparation the day Christ was crucified. (Get it ?)... II. THE DAY OF ATONEMENT CEREMONIES: Lev. 16 This Chap. of Lev. gives to us the intricate details of the ceremonies which were to be fulfilled on the great Day of Atonement. The Types and Shadows here all point to the work of Christ historically and then to His work prophetically in His Church. We consider the Old Testament typical ceremonies of this day and what it meant to and in Israel and then see how Christ fulfilled it in the New Testament and what it means in and to the Church, which is His Body. Date: Friday, August 27, 2004 at 11:15:29 (CDT) Page No :3 Study: Study 13 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD The Day of Atonement was to be kept from "evening to evening". The same truth is applicable here as for other Feast Days and Sabbaths. Israel had to cease from their own works and rest in the work of the atonement, the work of the High Priest in Sanctuary service. For the believer, there is true rest in Christ's finished work. It is not by works of righteousness which we have done, but it is what Christ has done in His atoning work Eph. 2:5-10; Rom. 3:27,28; 10:30-33; Matt. 11:28-30; Heb. 4: 1-11; John 17:1-4; 19:30; Rom. 11: 32. B. A Day of Fasting: Lev. 23:26-32; Num. 29:7; Lev.16:31. This day, although involved in the Feasts of Israel was really a "fast" day. In Acts 27:9 this day is called "The Fast". It was the only day of the Feasts of the Lord specifically set aside as a day of national fasting. Fasting has always been the affliction of the flesh. It is the discipline and subju- gation of bildily appetites. Throughout Israel's history there were special occa- sions of fasting, days of national fasting and humiliation. The true and proper Fast is set forth in Isa. Chap. 58... As the Day of Atonement approaches for the chruch, there will be greater times of affliction of the flesh and subduing of bodily appetites. The days are at hand when the disciples of the Lord will fast, because the Bridegroom, Jesus Christ, is away. We should also read these scriptures on the importance and practice of fasting as in Israel and in the early church, Ezra 8:23; Neh. 1:4; Mt. 4:2; Acts 13:1-4; Psa. 35:13; 69:10; 109:24; Dan. 9:3; Joel 2:12; Mt.17:21; Acts 10:30; Luke 2:37; 2 Corin. 6:5; 11:27; Mt. 9:14,15. C. A Day of Affliction of the Soul: This day was also a time of "soul-affliction." Body and soul affliction were linked in this day of fasting and prayer. On this day the Israelites humbled themselves before the Lord in national repentance and humiliation as they sought the Lord. God uses soul affliction to draw us to Himself Psa. 119:67,71. Any person who refused to afflict their souls in Israel were cut off. All needed to accept the dealings of God. Soul affliction speaks of that judging of ourselves so that we be not judged of the Lord. 1 Corin.. 11:28-32 As the church approaches the Day of Atonement "soul affliction" will be manifested in the believers more and more. Date: Friday, August 20, 2004 at 10:30:20 (CDT) Page No :2 Study: Study 13 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD "THE FEAST DAY OF ATONEMENT" I. THE DAY OF ATONEMENT: Lev. 23:26-28; 25:9 The Day of Atonement was the most solemn of all days in Israel. As with Passover, Sheaf ofFirstfruits, and Pentecost, so with the Day of Atonement. This day was a literal 24 hr. day in Israel, in which significant events took place. The Prophet Zechariah, in prophesying of this Day, said..."and I will remove the The scriptures often use the word "day" in both a literal 24 hr. day meaning as well as an indefinte period of time, as the following references clearly show. Prov. 4:18... "Light that shines more and more unto the perfect Day." John 8:56....."Abraham rejoiced to see "My Day".Heb. 10:25..."The saints are to gather together and the much more as they see "The Day approaching." 2Pet. 1:19....."The believer is to watch as he sees "the day dawn" and "the day-star" arise in our heart. Eph. 4:30......The believer is sealed unto "the day of redemption." Read also Rom. 12: 13,14.; 2Thess. 2:2; Acts 13:41; Nahum 3:3; 1Corin. 13:10; Heb. 9:28; Joel 2:1-11; Zeph. 1:14,15; Malachi 4:1-6. Consistency of these scriptures will show that as each of the Feast days were literal 24 hrs. days in Israel's history, so they are also in church history. But of course, once the initial day has been ushered in it remains open to all who will believe and enter into that Feast. So then Passover took place on a literal 24 hr. day, yet this Feast has been open ever since to all who will belive and enter into it. So it is the same with the Feast of Tabernacles, Day of Trumpets, Day of Atonement and Tabernacles proper. Several things should be noted about this Day. A. A Day of Holy Convocation: Lev. 23:27-32; Num. 29:7; Lev.16: 31. Like every other Feast Day, the Day of Atonement was a holy convocation, and a sabbath rest. No servile work was to be done on this day. So serious was the command, that if any person did any work on this day he was to be cut off from the people of God. Date: Friday, August 13, 2004 at 10:05:50 (CDT) Page No :1 Study: Study 13 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD THE FEAST DAY OF ATONEMENT We come now to the most solemn of all Feast Days, the Day of Atonement. The Day of Atonement was the Day of national and Sanctuary cleansing. On this day special sacrifices were offered for atonement. The special and peculiar offerings were those of the two goats, one goat for Jehovah and the other goat for Azazel. One goat was slain, the other goat was taken into the wilderness by the hand of a fit man, bearing away the sins of the people. On this day only, which took place but once a year, the High Priest entered into the Holiest of All, within the veil, with the blood of the Lord's goat, the sin offering. Here he sprinkled the blood on the Mercy Seat. The blood of the sin offering on the Great Day of Atonement brought about the cleansing of all sin, all iniquity, and all transgression. The Priesthood, the Santuary and Israel as a nation experienced blood atonement, thus being reconciled to their God. The details of this Feast Day are provided for us in Lev. 16; 23:26-32; Num. 29:7-11; Heb. Chaps. 8,9,10. interprets this Feast Day for us in the N.Testament. Again we need to remember that, as for Passover and Pentecost, there is a twofold fulfilment relative to the Day of Atonement: that which finds its fulfilment in the Person and Misistry of Christ (historically), and that which finds its fulfilment in the believers "individually" and in the church corporately both in the present and in furture experientially. It is important to keep this in view, so that there is a proper interpretation and understanding of this Day of Atonement relative to Christ and His Church. For, there are those who see an historical fulfilment in Christ but fail to see a future or experiential fulfilment in the Church. And there are those who, on the other hand, see a future fulfilment in the church but fail to see what Christ has fulfilled historyically. There is absolutely no doubt that full and complete "Atonement" has been made by Jesus Christ on Calvary's Cross, but there is also no doubt that the church has never fully and completely appropriated and received all that the Atonement has provided. It is the experiential appropriation of the Atonement that constitutes Day of Atonement in the church. Those who interpret this Feast Day to take place in the future in the Jewish nation,, wee it to be prophetic of a day of national cleansing for the Jew. And those who interpret this Feast Day to find its fulfilment in the church also see a futuristic fulfilment but founded on the work of Calvary. Date: Friday, August 06, 2004 at 14:31:49 (CDT) Page No :9 Study: Study 12 The 7 Feasts of the Lord However, in the early 1950's God poured out His Spirit again revealing further truths which had been sealed in His Word. Many ministries were raised up by God about this period of time. It became a real "Feast of Trumpets" with the truths being proclaimed. The truth of the church coing to maturity and perfection; the great preparation for harvest ingathering the coming of the Lord again to His Church in glory. There was also a further call to cleansing, to holiness and separation unto the Lord. In other words, a call to the Day of Atonement. In concluding then the Feast of Trumpets we see that this Feast finds its present fulfillment in the distinctive ministries with distinctive truths being spoken to the church, and then its ultimate fulfilment is in the judgments poured out in the Book of Rev.. All consummate at the LAST and 7th Trumpet at the second coming of Christ for His own and the establishment of His Kingdom ..1 Corin. 15: 51-57; 1 Thess. 4: 15-18; Rev. Chaps. 8-11; Mt. 25: 30,31. God's people need to understand that the church must experience the Feast of Trumpets before experiencing "the last trumpet". He that hath an ear to hear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Churches...Rev. 2:29; Mark 4:23,24; Luke 8:18; Isa. 18:3. Other prophetic and significant uses of the Trumpets may be considered for study. A. There were 120 trumpets at the Dedication of Solomon's Temple in the Feast of Tabernacles..2 Chron. 5. B. The Book of the Law was opened in the Feast of Trumpets. Deut. 31:9-13; Ezra 3; Neh. 8; Rev. 4 & 5; Isa. 29:11,12. C. The 7 Priests with 7 trumpets brought about the collapes of Jericho. Josh. 5 & 6; Rev. 11: 15. D. Kings were anointed at the blowing of the Trumpets. 1 Ki. 1: 32-40; 2 Ki. 9: 11-13. E. The Day of the Lord, or the second coming of Christ is heralded by the Trumpet. Zeph. 1:14-18; Mt. 24:31; 1 Corin. 15:52; 1 Thess. 4:16. End Study 12 Date: Friday, July 30, 2004 at 10:20:39 (CDT) Page No :8 Study: Study 12 The 7 Feasts of the Lord 2. Seven priests blowing trumpets were also involved in the bringing up of the Ark of the Covenant into the Tabernacle of David. 1 Chron. 15: 24-28. 3. Seven messengers blow seven trumpets in the Book of Rev, while the blast of the 7th Trump, the Ark of the Covenant is seen in the heavenly Sanctuary. Rev. Chaps. 8-11. All has to do with the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Thus the Day of blowing of the Trumpets began in the first day of the 7th Mo., introducing and calling Israel to the soon coming Day of Atonement, followed by the Feast of Tabernacles. In application of this Feast DAy to the Church we may consider the following: The church historically experienced Passover. The church historically experienced Pentecost. The church historically has experienced distinctive "Trumpet calls" as illustratated in Israel's history. Various men of God and revivals and awakenings may be viewed as "Trumpet Calls" and messages to the church. Each Feast was in- troduced by a Trumpet CAll. In tracing Church history we can see how the church entered into what is called.. "The Dark Ages", when light and truth seemed almost extinguished. But God in His purpose and grace raised up Luther, Calvin and other Reformers. They proclaimed with Trumpet Voice the distinctive truths relative to the Feast of Passover; justifi- cation by faith in the blood of Jesus, santification unto the Lord. The Wesley revivals emphasized the truth of Holiness and separation also. This speaks of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the putting away of evil practices (sin). Then followed subsequent awakenings, and more especially in the early years of the 20th Century (1900's) God poured out His Spirit, and multitudes experienced the glorious Feast of Pentecost. Since then other ministries have proclaimed with trumpet-like voice the distinctive truths belonging to this Feast. The "Pentecostal" or "Charismatic" believers witness to this fact. Date: Friday, July 23, 2004 at 08:17:58 (CDT) Page No :7 Study: Study 12 The 7 Feasts of the Lord In the Feast of Unleavened Bread "no servile work" was to be done Vs. 7,8. In the Feast day of Pentecost "no servile work" was to be done Vs. 21. In the Feast Day of Trumpets "no servile work" was to be done Vs. 25. In the Feast Day of Atonement no work was to be done and anyone doing work would be destroyed from the people of God. Vs. 28-31. REST was to be entered into on these Feast Days. Man was to cease from all "THEIR OWN WORKS". The New Testament answers this for the believer, for the believer must "cease from their OWN works" and "enter into the Rest. Heb. 4:1-11; Mt. 11: 28-30. It is "in Christ" the believer finds true rest, ceasing from the works of the flesh Gal. 5: 19-21 and the works of the Law Rom. 3:27,28; 10:30-33. Christ is our Sabbath. The Old Test. Sabbath days showed us things to come to the person of Christ. Col. 2:14-17. C. The Seventh Month:Lev. 23:24 Passover took place in the first month. Number one is the number of beginnings, of commencement. Israel began their experience with the Lord in the "first" month Mt. 6:33; Gen. 1:1; John 1:1,2. In this Feast the believer comes to the Lord Jesus and puts "first" the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness. Pentecost took place in the 3rd Mo.. Number 3 is the number of com- plete testimony, the number of Divine Witness. Associated with the Penticostal Feast in the Holy Spirit who is the "3rd" person in the eternal Godhead. In this Feast the believer knows the blessedness of the in dwelling and infilling Holy Spirit. Tabernacles took place in the 7th Mo. Number 7 is the number of per- fection and fullness. In this Feast the believer is brought to the Fulness of the GodHead. Number 7 is distinctly the number of the Book of Rev.. The number is used over 600 times in the Bible. Because the Feast of Tabernacles took polace in the 7th Mo. several important incidents in Scripture will suffice to show its Types and Shadows of the things to come.. 1. Seven priests with the Ark of God in the midst marched with seven trumpets around the wall of Jericho for 6 days. On the 7th day they marched around 7 times. At the close of the march the trumpets were blown, the people shouted and God caused the walls of Jericho to collapse. The victory was complete.......Josh. 5 and 6. Date: Friday, July 16, 2004 at 10:58:27 (CDT) Page No :6 Study: Study 12 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD This is the rapture trumpet. However, the Feast Day of Trumpets was distinctly the call to the great Day of Atonement, the Day of national cleansing. Daniel the prophet speaks of it as "the cleansing of the Sanctuary". Dan. 8:13,14. Right throughout the nation, regardless of which tribe a person be- longed to, the call went to all Israelites to come to the Sanctuary of the Lord for this Soilemn Day of Atonement. This is what the Feast Day of Trumpets meant historically in and to the nation of Israel. Several olther important things relative tol this day should be noted here. A. New Year's Day...Num. 29: 1 The Feast Day of Trumpets was New Year's Day in Israel. It should be remembered that the Hebrews had a two-sided calendar year, that is, the Sacred and the Civil. The Sacred year began in Abib or Nisan, the 1st Mo., with the Feast of Passover and it concluded in Tishri of Ethanim, the 7th Mo., in the Feast of Tabernacles. The Civil year began in the 7th Mo. with the Day of Trumpets and finished 12 months later in the month Ebul. Hence the 1st Mo. of the sacred year became the 7th Mo. of the Civil year while the 1st mo. of the civil was also the 7th mo. of the Sacred year... :-(... Thus it was both an end and a new beginning; closing off the old and bringing in the New Year. It is this which helps us to understand Joel 2:23 concerning the former and latter rains coming down "in the first mo." The spiritual truth conveyed here to the church is that God's endings are also new beginnings. He closes off one the old to bring us into the new beginning. He Himself is "the First and the Last, the Beginning and the Ending" and the Finisher of our Faith...Rev. 1:8,11; Isa. 41:4; Heb. 12:1-4. B. A Sabbath Rest..Lev. 23: 23-25 As were all other Feast Days, so the Day of Trumpets was a Sabbath Rest. No servile work was to be done. It was to be a day of rest...rest in the finished work of the High Priest in the Atonement. Lev. 23 empha- sizes the fact for each Feast that no servile work was to be done. Date: Friday, July 09, 2004 at 10:34:38 (CDT) Page No :5 Study: Study 12 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD So the Lord accepts the church in her priestly ministrations through Christ. The believer offers spiritual sacrifices of joy and praise acceptable to God in Him. Heb. 13:15,16; Rev. 1:6; 5: 9,10; 1 Pet. 2:5-9. These were the major uses of trumpets in Israel. The Hebrew nation was familiar with the sound of the trumpet. All had to learn the distinctive messages that were being sounded in order to respond properly. The Lord Jesus, with trumpet voice called to the churches to "hear what the Spirit" was saying to them. Rev. 2:7,11,17,27; 3:6,22; 1:10. We note briefly several olther significant uses of trumpets in Israel as well in the New Testament Revelation. A. Trumpets were used in the anoiting of Kings. 2Ki.9:13; 11:14; 2Sam. 15:10; 2Chron. 23:13 B. Trumpets were used at the Dedication of Solomon's Temple. 2Chron.5: 11-14. C. Trumpets were used in the great year of Jubilee, which was every 50th year in Israel. It was a year of release, restoration and reunion. Lev. 25; Isa. 61: 1-3; Luke 4: 18,19. D. Trumpets are associated with the final judgement of God and also at the 2nd coming of Christ for His own. Rev. 8:1-9; 11:15; 1Thess. 4:16; 1Corin. 15:51,52; Mt. 24:31; Zeph. 1:14-18; Zech. 9:14. III. THE FEAST DAY OF TRUMPETS: Lev. 23:23-25; Num. 29:1 As seen previously, trumpets were blown at the beginning of the mo.s, announcing each new month. The Feast of Tabernacles took place in the 7th Month. This month was ushered in by the trumpets, but with special em- phasis. So much so that this day was called "The Day of the Blowing of Trumpets". It was a different call and message that sounded forth on this Feast Day. Date: Friday, July 02, 2004 at 10:11:43 (CDT) Page No :4 Study: Study 12 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD the New Testament church, in times of spiritual warfare and oppression can call on the Name of the Lord and experience great deliverance. Acts 10:38; Eph. 6:10-18. F. For Days of Gladness: Num. 10:10 There were times of great joy and gladness on the various Festival occasions. In these days the trumpets were blown as the people rejoiced together before the Lord their God. This is seen greatly in the Tabernacle of David order of worship. I Chron. 13:8; 15:24-29; Psa. 47:4,5; 150:3; 2 Sam. 6:13. So the church experiences days of gladness and joy as she gathers together to wor- ship the Lord in Festival days as well as on the Lord's day. Col.4:12; Eph. 3:18. G. For Solemn Assemblies: Num. 10:10 There were other occasions when the people of Israel were called by the trumpets to days of Solemn Assemblies; in times of intercession, prayer and fasting. Joel 2:1-17; Psa. 81:3; Zeph. 3:14-20; 2 Ki. 10:20. So the church at times is called by the Lord to times and seasons of intercession and special prayer and fasting. Isa. 58:3-6; Joel 1:14; Mark 2:18-20, 9:29; Mt. 17:21; H. For the Beginning of Months: Num. 10:10 All Feast Days and all the beginning of the months were announced by the sound of the blowing of the Trumpets. These trumpet sounds were to keep God's "times and seasons" in the people's mind Ex. 19:6,13; Lev. 23:24. So the Spirit of God speaks to the church by the ministries, those who can hear His Voice, so that God's people may remember the "times and the season's" of the Lord's calendar. Ecc. 3:1,17; 8:6; Dan. 2:21; Lev. 23:4; Acts 1:7; 1 Thess. 5:1. I. For the Offerings and Sacrifices: Num. 10:10 As the sacrifices were being offered upon the altar the trumpets were also blown. As the Lord heard the silvery note of redemption ascending over the ascending sacrifices, so He would remember His promise to accept His people through blood atonement. Num. 28: 11-15; 29:1-6; 2 Chron. 29:27,28. Date: Friday, June 25, 2004 at 10:34:13 (CDT) Page No :3 Study: Study 12 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD (BLOWING OF THE TRUMPETS, CONT.) A. For the Calling of the Assemblies: Num. 10:2 Under this call the 12 Tribes gathered together as one nation. The Trumpet was always used to call Israel, God's people together. Isa. 27: 13. So the Church as the Israel of God gathers together as one in Christ, Psa. 50:5; Mt. 18:20; Eph. 4:10; Jn. 17. At the coming of Christ the trumpet will sound and gather together all the elect from the four corners of the earth. Mt. 24:30,31. B. For the Journeying of the Camps: Num. 10:2 When the Cloud moved, then the trumpets were to be blown and the people were to move on with God. Num. 9:15-23; 10:11-36; Heb. 11:13. So the Church today must follow the Cloud of God's Holy Spirit as He leads the way. C. For the Calling of the Princes: Num. 10:4 When the leadership of the nation was to be gathered together, then only one trumpet was to be blown. Two trumpets whould sound when the whole nation or the whole congregation was to be called. Psa. 107:32; Eze. 34:1-7; Rev. 1:10. So today God calls leadership together in special convocations so that He may speak to them and give them direction. D. For the Blowing of Alarms: Num. 10: 5-7. At times they had to sound an alarm and warn the people of that which was coming Joel 2:1; Amos 3:6,7 So today God sounds an alarm to His Church to warn her of coming events in the World and thus cause the church to seek His Face. E. For War or Enemy Oppression: Num. 10:9 Trumpets were often blown in times of war and enemy oppression. When God heard the trumpet He would fight for His people and bring them deliverance. Jere. 4:19,21; Judges 3:27; 6:34; 7:4-22; Num. 31:6,7. Date: Friday, June 18, 2004 at 10:21:46 (CDT) Page No :2 Study: Study 12 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD Two trumpets: were made for the various callings in Israel. As noted already the number two is the number of testimony, the number of witness. "In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established" Deut. 17:6; 19:15; John 8:17,18; 2 Corin. 13:1. Here we have the silvery redemptive witness sounding forth in Israel in these two silver trumpets. The Jew and Gentile, two yet one in Christ are redeemed, not with corruptible things such as silver or gold but with the prescious blood of Jesus I Peter 1: 18-20; Lev. 17:11-14. Both speak with a united witness and testimony. The trumpet in scripture is used to symbolize the prophetic voice, the spoken Word of the Lord coming to His people through the ministry. The prophets were told to lift up their voice "Likea trumpet" Isa. 58:1; Hosea 8:1. The Prophet Ezekiel was distinclty told to be a Watchman to Israel and blow the trumpet voice of warning to them, or call them unto the Lord Eze. 33: 1-7. The Voice of the Lord Jesus is symbolized also by the sound of the trumpet Rev. 1:10; 4:1.Read also Joel 2:1,15; Amos 3:6-8; Isa. 18:3; 27:13; Jere. 4:8; 19:21; 51:27. For Israel, Aaron and his sons were responsible as priests to sound the trumpet message on the special occasions Ex. 28:1 with Num. 10:3,4,10. For the Church, the Body of Christ, the two silver trumpets is likened to the Ministries. Christ and His Ministers sound the Word of the Lord to the spirit- ual Israel of God. Eph. 4:8-16. It is important that the trumpets make a clear and distinct sound so that the people of God may hear and understand the message I Corin. 14:8; 13:1; Mark 4:23-25; Luke 8:18. The people of God need to take heed "how" and "what" they hear. II. USE OF TRUMPETS IN ISRAEL: Num. 10: 1-10 The scripture passage in Num. gives nine specific occasions when the trumpets were to be blown in Israel. The find their historical fulfilment in Old Testament Israel and then their spiritual significance in New Testament Israel, the Church. Date: Friday, June 11, 2004 at 10:33:18 (CDT) Page No :1 Study: Page 1Study 12 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD THE FEAST DAY OF THE BLOWING OF THE TRUMPETS The Feast of Tabernacles is introduced on the first day of the seventh month by the day of blowing of trumpets. It is a festival of trumpets sounding throughout the land and calling the nation to prepare for the coming Day of Atonement, the Day of national cleansing. Specially prepared offerings were presented to the Lord on the Day also, even as on every other Feast day, besides the regular daily offerings. Psalm 89:15 "How blessed are the people who know the joyful sound ! Or, blast of the Trumpet, shout of joy." The specific scriptures dealing with this Feast are found in Lev. 23:23-25; Num. 29: 1-6. Because this Feast Day is praticularly called "The Day of blowing of the Trumpets" the significance of trumpets in Israel should be understood. I. TRUMPETS IN ISRAEL: There were basically two kinds of trumpets in Israel; trumpets made of ram's horns and trumpets of silver. A. Trumpets of Ram's Horns: Ex. 19:16,19; 20:18; Lev. 25:9; Josh 6:4-13, 20; 1 Sam. 2:1; 1 Chron.25: 5. The horn here came from some sacrifice, from the bullock or the ram. The ram's horns were especially used to blast out the note of shouting at the fall of the walls of Jericho. It was the trumpet of Jubilee Lev. 25: 10-54. And it was the ram's horn caught in the bushes to be the sacrifice for Abrahams only Son Isaac. (A type of Christ).. B. Trumpets of Silver: Num. 10:2,8,9; 29:1; 2Chron. 5:12,13; 7:6; Psa. 98:6. The trumpets here were made of silver. Silver was the symbol of the price of redemption of the soul. It was used as ransom or the atonement money Ex. 30: 11-16. It is possible that the two trumpets made from one piece of silver came from the atonement money after the numbering of the firstborn Num. 3: 40-51. Date: Friday, June 04, 2004 at 10:46:37 (CDT) Page No :8 Study: Study 11 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD THE 3 FEASTS OF THE LORD: ___________________________________________________________ Historical Fulfilment Typical/Prophetical in Israel ___________________________________________________________ PASSOVER, PENTECOST, TABERNACLES ___________________________________________________________ Egypt, Sinai, Wilderness Wanderings, Canaan 1st Month, 3rd Month, 4th, 5th, 6th Mo.s, 7th Month ___________________________________________________________ Passover 14th, 50th, Trumpets 1st Unleavened, from the, Atonement 10th Bread 15th, Sheaf Waving, Tabernacles 15th Sheaf of 1st Fruits 18th Spring Rains, Early/Latter Rains Barley Harvest, Wheat Harvest, Wine & Oil Harves Corn, Fruit ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Historical Fulfilment Antitypical in Christ ____________________________________________________________ PASSOVER, PENTECOST,TABERNACLES ____________________________________________________________ Gospels, Acts, Epistles, Heb./Rev. ____________________________________________________________ Crucifixion, Holy Spirit, Ministry Voice Resurrection, Church Formed, Church, Ingathering Souls Spiritual, Experiential, Coming of Christ Practical Fulfilment in Church Salvation in, Baptism in, Perfection of the Christ, Holy Spirit, Church Separation to, into Body, Coming of Christ Christ, of Christ Early Church Outpouring, Latter Days, Outpouring The Challenge comes to all believers as to which Feast they will stop at ?... Passover ? ....Pentecost ? ..... or Tabernacles ?...... Church history shows how God's people have stopped at either the first Feast or the second Feast. God's people have built their denominations around the various truths of these two Feasts. And the sad history of the church shows that those who experienced Passover truths opposed those who experience Pentecost truths. And, history repeating itself, shows that there are those who have experienced Pentecost truths who oppose those who seek to follow on to KNOW God in Tabernacle truths! End of Study 11 Date: Friday, May 28, 2004 at 10:32:56 (CDT) Page No :7 Study: Study 11 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD IV. THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES OUTLINED: Before proceeding in our study of this final Feast in detail lets outline the 3 integral parts of it. Passover had 3 integral parts to it. Pentecost stood alone. Tabernacles had 3 integral parts to it. All together the 3 Feasts comprhend seven Festival days in their respective months, times and seasons. Lev. sets out the 3 parts of this Feast of the 7th month. 1. The Feast Day of Trumpets..Lev. 23: 23-25. 2. The Feast Day of Atonement.Lev. 23: 26-32. 3. The Feast of Tabernacles..... Lev. 23: 33-44. Other Scriptures dealing with the details of this Feast may be found in Lev. 16; Num. 10: 1-10; 29: 1-40; in the Old Testament, and the Book of Heb. in the New. V. The Feast of Tabernacles...Historically and Prophetically: The two major schools of interpretation of this Feast both recognize that this is a Feast with prophetic import. Whether it is interpreted to be fulfilled in the nation of Israel or in the Church, both see that this Feast in its fulness has to find future fulfilment. It is recognized that there has been an historical fulfilment of Passover. There has also been an historical fulfilment of Pentecost. There has not been an historical fulfilment of Tabernacles. Consistency of interpretaiton demands that this Feast, as the previous 2, also find historical fulfilment. Not only must there be an historical fulfilment, there must also be an experiential fulfilment. As this Feast is studied it will be seen that certain elements in this Feast have been fulfilled historically in Christ and His redemptive work. The full truth typified has to find its fulfilment in the experience of the church.. Hence, in studying the details of this fianl Feast, it is necessary to clearly understand and discern that which Christ has already fulfilled and that this has to be fulfilled in the church. Or, it is important to understand that which is historical and that which is prophetical. This twofold fulfilment should be distinguished, otherwise misunderstanding and misinterpretation will result. This will be noted by: A. That which has been fulfilled by Christ historically, and judically, as to its temporal and symbolical elements. B. That which has to be fulfilled in the church prophetically and experientially as to its eternal and spiritual elements. This twofold fulfillment will be kept in view as we consider the details of this Feast as it involves Christ historically and the Church, His Body, prophetically. The following illustrates the truth of the Feasts as to their historical and prop- hetical significances in Israel's history and of the church. Date: Friday, May 21, 2004 at 10:24:28 (CDT) Page No :6 Study: Study 11 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD Rehoboam, the son of Solomon (who is a type of Christ), took the throne over the house of Judah, consisting of two tribes, plus the Priestly Tribe of Levi, Jero- boam, the son of Nebat and servant of Solomon, took the throne over the House of Israel, consisting of the remaining ten tribes. The Lord permitted this division to take place so that His sovereign purposes would be worked out in the nation. 1 Ki. 12: 1-24.. In the remainder of the chapter, verses 25-33, we see how Jeroboam set up a sub- stitute Feast of Tabernacles, postponing it to another month. The salient points are noted here. Jeroboam, fearing that the kingdom would return to Rehoboam, decided to set up a counterfeit religion. He had two golden calves made, setting them up as gods, even as Aaron had years before. One golden calf was set up in Bethel and the other in Dan. This became a sin unto the people, for the people began to worship these golden calves even as they had done under Aaron Ex. 32. Jeroboam also set up a house of high places and established his own priesthood which were not of the tribe of Levi. And then to add to his sin, he "ordained a Feast in the 8th month, like unto the Feast that was in Judah". He built an altar and sacrifices to these false gods, on the 15th day of the 8th month. The Scripture states that this was "the month which he had devised of his own heart.." For his sins, God sent a prophet to bring judgment upon him. However, Jeroboam did not repent but went further into sin as 1 Ki. 13 clearly shows. The lessons which can be learned from this historical account is this: As Jeroboam set up a counterfeit religion and postponed and substituted the Feast of Tabernacles, so will other leaders do likewise. The true Feast of Tabernacles was to be kep in Jerusalem in the place where the Lord recorded His Name. It was also to be kept in the 7th Mo. Lev. 23: 34-44. Evidently Jeroboam reasoned in his heart that the people of Judah would probably accept the postponed and substitute Feast rather than bothering to go up to Jerusalem. In this way he believed he would be able to keep the Kingdom of Israel from re-uniting with the Kingdom of Judah. The tragedy today is that many leaders in Christendom would postpone this Feast to some other dispensation, or pass it on to other people, or even have a substitute Feast. By doing this the church is robbed of entering into this glorious Feast as God intended. However, God will have a people that will indeed enter into all the Feasts of the Lord, rather than follow modern day Jeroboams and a counterfeit priesthood in an idola- tours system. Date: Friday, May 14, 2004 at 08:52:57 (CDT) Page No :5 Study: Study 11 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD The church has been wandering, so to speak, through church History in so much unbelief of God's promises. Generation after generation has passed on, dying in the wilderness, never experiencing the three Feasts of the Lord. However, there must be....there will be.....a new generation that will arise to enter into the Cove- nant promises of God and experience all three Feasts of the Lord. It is not that this third Feast is not dealt with in the New Testament for it is. Heb. and Rev especially deal with this Feast and its integral parts. However, the Lord has kept this Feast for the endtime generation who will fully believe Him and enter into His promises. The nation of Israel wandered for 40 years, the Church has been wandering for approximately 40 Jubilees ( for, 40 X 50 = 2000 years.) But the Wilderness wanderings are coming to an end. A New Generation is arising. They are experiencing Christ as their Passover. The are keeping the Feast of Pent- ecost in the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and the formation of the Church. They will not stop there but will move on and experience the Feast of Tabernacles and the truths symbolized therein. The following illustrates the truth of these things. Natural Israel:.......... Historical Type: Passover...1st mo........Pentecost...3rd mo.......< Wanderings...40 Yrs. >.......Tabernacles ........................................................................................Israel's History........................7th Mo. _____________________________________________________________ ...Egypt..................................Sinai.........................................................................Canaan Spiritual Israel:....Historican..Antitype: Passover...1st Mo.....Pentecost.3rd Mo.............................Tabernacles ....................................................................................40X50=2000Yrs...................7th Mo. _____________________________________________________________ ..........Gospels.................................Acts......................Church History.............Heb./Rev. III. THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES OUTLINED: In 1 Kings Chap. 12 we have an interesting account of the division of the United Kingdom of Israel into 2 Kingdoms; the Kingdom of the House of Judah and the Kingdom of the House of Israel. Date: Friday, May 07, 2004 at 10:35:17 (CDT) Page No :4 Study: Study 11 The 7 Feasts of the Lord For 40 Years God allowed them to wander in the Wilderness until all that gener- ation died. Only Joshua and Caleb lived to enter into the Land of Canaan with the new generation. The national sin was that of unbelief, (lack of faith) in the Word and Promises of God, leading to rebellion, and disobediance. Num. Chaps. 13,14. Heb. Chaps. 3,4. It is evident that the new generation, after crossing the Jordan, kept the Feasts of the Lord. Read carefully Joshua 5: 10-12 with Lev. 23:9-14; Neh. 8: 1-18; Ezra 6:19-22; 3:1-6. So the new generation experienced Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. Joshua and Caleb, as over-comer's, also enjoyed the Feasts of the Lord in Canaan land at the end of the 40 years wanderings in the Wilderness. They had another spirit, and wholly followed the Lord. B. Spiritual Israel...The Historical.Antitype... The Old Testament scene may be superimposed upon the history of the New Test- ament Church in remarkable comparison. The Historical Books of the New Testament show the fulfilment of the first two Feasts. The four Gospels present Christ as the historical fulfilment of the Feast of Passover, Unleavened Bread and the Sheaf of Firstfruits. The Book of Acts shows remarkably the historical and anti-typical fulfilment of the Feast of Weeks, or Pen- tecost, in the church. But where, in the history of the church, can one find the fulfilment of the third and final Feast, the Feast of Tabernacles ? This is the one remaining Feast of Prop- hecy..the Feast unfullfilled in the church. Concerning the Feast... the fact remains that the Feast of Tabernacles is the one only type in the Old Testament which has not yet been fulfilled. The New Testament church fofllows the pattern of the Old Testament church. First the natural, then the spiritual; first the type, then the antitype; first the shadow; then the substance. As natural Israel wandered for 40 years after the Passover and Pentecost, and failed to enter into Tabernacles in Canaan rest through unbelief, so spiritual Israel...the church...has followed suit. Date: Friday, April 30, 2004 at 08:18:05 (CDT) Page No :3 Study: Study 11 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD II. The Feast Unfulfilled in Israel's Wanderings : Paul tells us that many of the things which happened to Israel were for types and examples to the New Testament Church 1 Corin. 10: 6,11. One of the most remark- able historical-types in Israel's history is that which pertains to the Feasts of the Lord. We will consider both the type and antitype, Old Testament Israel and New Testament Israel, as to the fulfillment of the Feasts of the Lord. A. Natural Israel...The Historical Type: Israel experienced the Feast of Passover in Egypt (the World) and the mighty deliver- ance which resulted therefrom Ex. 12..(As we experience when we're born again.).. They also experienced the Feast of Unleavened Bread in their separation from the land by baptism into the Red Sea and the Cloud Ex. 13:14,15; 1 Corin. 10:1,2. The 3 day journey (note 3 day)...brought them to the foot of Mt. Sinai Ex. Chaps. 15-19. Here at Mt. Sinai the nation experienced the Feast of Pentecost in the 3rd Month. God's intention was then to bring Israel into Canaan land where they could enter into the third and final Feast and partake of the fruit of the land. This is where the Church is today...refusing to go into Canaan land, and still wandering in the desert, because there is still leaven in the bread (sin and disobediacne in the church) and why the Church has not yet experienced the "FRUIT" of the land. We noticed in the case Ai, it only takes one sinner in the camp, to stop the whole pro- gression until the sin is dealt with, and eradicated from the whole camp. An ex- ample to us for sure...So called Christians, dont get it, they holding back the rest of those who have gotten the sin out of their lives. And our Father will have to do something really drastic to get us to bow the knee. In Egypt they knew the Passover. In the journeyings they knew Unleavened Bread. At Mt. Sinai they knew Pentecost. But only in Canaan land could they know and enjoy Tabernacles. The great tragedy is seen when the nation came to Kadesh-Barnea. "Kadesh" means "Holy" or "Holiness", and "Barnea" means "An inconstant or fickle son". It was at Kadesh 'Barnea that they rejected the land promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In rejecting the land of Canaan they also rejected the greatest Feast also, the Feast of Tabernacles. Num. Chaps. 13,14. Date: Friday, April 23, 2004 at 11:06:54 (CDT) Page No :2 Study: Study 11 The 7 Feasts of the Lord b. The Day of Atonement: This is to be symbolic of the national day of cleansing from sin for Israel after their regathering. It is held that under the Trumpets Israel will be gathered back to the land, unconverted, and under the Day of Atonement will repent, turn to God and experience national cleansing Lev.16;Zech.12:9-14;13:1;Joel 2:11-15 and Heb. 9:11-14. . c. The Feast of Tabernacles: This is to be both a memorial as well as prophetic; memorial to Israel's redemption out of Egypt, and prophetic as to the kingdom rest after her regathering and res- toration. The Feast, coming at the end of harvest when the people dwell in booths is understood to be the fulness of Israel's Millennial rest unto the New Heavens and New Earth. It is also held that the Feast of Tabernacles will be kept in the Millennium by Israel and other nations, who will be forced to keep it or be plagued Zech.14:16-20; Lev. 23:33-44; Deut. 16:13. The nation of Israel's coming back into relationship with the Lord God. However, None could experience Tabernacles without Pentcost, and none could experience Pentecost without Passover. All must follow God's order in the Feasts according to their respective months. Again, it was Jewish "believers" who experienced the first historical Passover and Pentecost in the Gospels and the Acts. These believers actually consisted or constituted "the Church" ! Hence, it becomes inconsistent to take two of the Feasts and apply them to Christ and the Church, and then take the third Feast and apply it only to the nation of Israel. No unbelieving Jew or Israelite could experience the Last Feast without partaking of the first Feast. The Jew must know Christ as his personal Saviour and experience Christ as the Passover Lamb first, then he can experience his personal Pentecost in the baptism of the Spirit which sets him in the church, The Body of Christ. And then, and only then, can he proceed on in God to experience the truth of the Feast of Tabernacles. This is true for both Jew and Gentile. There can be no Feast outside of Christ. Everything since the Cross is "in Christ". Date: Friday, April 16, 2004 at 10:32:54 (CDT) Page No :1 Study: Study 11 THE 7 FEASTS OF THE LORD The Feast of the 7th Month...Tabernacles We come now to the third and final and most glorious Feast of the Lord.... The Feast of Tabernacles. It is a Feast about which the people of God seem to know or understand very little. It will be found that this Feast is alluded to in the Major and Minor Prophets more than the other Feasts combined. It was, for Israel, the consummation of the sacred year, and was the "Feast of Feasts" as far as the Hebrew mind was concerned. Before studying the Feast of Tabernacles and its integral parts and significant details, some broad observations should be considered.... I. The Feast of Prophecy...Israel or the Church ? A. The Feast of Prophecy: Between Pentecost and Tabernacles there was an interval of time of 3 months, these being the 4th, 5th, and 6th months. Passover and Pentecost were linked together by a few weeks but Tabernacles stood alone at the end of the sacred year, separated from the previous Feasts by several months. These months were dry months, when generally no rain fell. (A condition for the present age the believer is in, and the individual believer also experiences this dry season...)..in their walk with the Lord...).. There were no holy convocations when the nation gathered before the Lord and His Sanctuary. There is a definite significance in the time laps between Pentecost and Tabernacles, the dry months. Hence, this Feast is generally recognized as the Feast of Prophecy.. that is, a Feast which has yet to find fulfilment. II. The Three parts of the final Feasts: a. The Feast of Trumpets: Finds fulfilment in the future regathering of long- dispersed Israel. The interval between Pentecost and Trumpets is likened to the pre- sent dispensation and the work of the Holy Spirit. When the present era is ended and the Church or "Pentecostal" period expires, then the elect of Israel will be re- gathered to keep the Feast of Trumpets in Jerusalem (Matt. 24:31; Rom.11:25; Joel 2:1; 3:21; Lev. 23: 23-25 are used to support this interpretation. It is further held that the Feast of Trumpets finds its fulfilment in the "catching out" of the Church and then the regathering of Israel as the second coming of Christ (their Mes

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