Prophecies Fulfilled Psalms: Understanding God's Timing

By Dennis Herman

If you've ever looked at a prophecy and wondered what the true interpretation is, this is the book for you. This book contains 43 prophecies that show you the step by step process to locate the interpretation for each in the Bible. This is more than a book about Bible Study. This book will explain how the Bible provided the interpretation for each and every prophecy in plain simple English using terms everyone can understand.

As you go through this book, you'll see how God arranged each prophecy with a written interpretation. This book will show you how each prophecy has a parallel chapter matching the context of the chapter the prophecy is located. There is never a reason to guess at a prophecy once you learn how God's Word is arranged to provide the fulfillment for every prophecy beyond any shadow of a doubt. God put all His proof in writing with perfect consistency.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Apr 19, 2014
• ISBN: 9781312119390

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Prophecies Fulfilled Psalms: Understanding God's Timing

Prophecies Fulfilled Psalms: Understanding God's Timing

Written by Dennis Herman

Copyright © 2014 Dennis Herman

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ISBN 978-1-312-11939-0

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Published by: Lulu.com

Prophecies Fulfilled Psalms Understanding God's Timing by Dennis Herman

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Bibles:

NLTse New Living. Translation®. SECOND EDITION Tyndale House Publishers, Inc

KJV King James Version

MKJV Modern King James Version Sovereign Grace Publishers

GNB Good News Bible Thomas Nelson Publishers

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) (NLTse) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Scriptures marked GNB are taken from the GOOD NEWS BIBLE (GNB): Scriptures taken

from the Good News Bible © 1994 published by the Bible Societies/HarperCollins Publishers

Ltd UK, Good News Bible© American Bible Society 1966, 1971, 1976, 1992. Used with

permission.

Introduction

If you've ever looked at a prophecy and wondered what the true interpretation was, this is the book for you. This book contains 43 prophecies that show you the step by step process to locate the interpretation for each in the Bible. This is more than a book about Bible Study. This book will explain how the Bible provided the interpretation for each and every prophecy in plain simple English using terms everyone can understand.

As you go through this book, you'll see how God arranged each prophecy with a written interpretation. This book will show you how each prophecy has a parallel chapter matching the context of the chapter the prophecy is located. There is never a reason to guess at a prophecy once you learn how God's Word is arranged to provide the fulfillment for every prophecy beyond any shadow of a doubt. God put all His proof in writing with perfect consistency.

None of the rules taught in the book are new. Bible Study methods taught in this book have been around since the days of Luther. Others built upon simple the set of Bible Study rules found in scripture which have been taught in institutions of higher education for generations up until recent time. Now when it seems God's simple rules have been lost, God's Spirit revealed them in His Word.

Over the years theologians hide many of God's simple rules under man made terms most people need a dictionary to understand. This distracted and discouraged people from studying God's Word over the past few generations. I've read a number of books over the years as well as studied with a number of pastors. We exercised each of those Bible Study rules without placing complicated terms on the studies. I've also found many authors place an emphasis on some study rules while glancing on others. Most books on Bible Study do a poor job of providing easy to understand examples. One of the reasons most books are difficult to understand is because many scriptures rely upon more than one rule to see its spiritual meaning. Because this book introduces each Bible Study rule in context according to the chapter it's found in, the examples are easy to see, understand, and follow.

I've been blessed to meet and study with one of the foremost authorities on Bible Study today. Dr. Lee Gugliotto, retired pastor and author of the book, Handbook for Bible Study, has been working to teach Bible Study in simple terms everyone can understand. His online classes are attended by people of all ages. His live online Bible Studies can be viewed on HomeChurchTV.org for free.

I've taken the simple Bible Study rules taught by Dr. Lee Gugliotto and combined them with actual examples from the Bible which makes understanding much easier. This book is the third in a series which explores the prophecies Jesus fulfilled. It is highly suggested you read the other books as well. Each book progresses through lessons in scripture in the order God recorded them. The lessons begin in Genesis with simple lessons showing how to identify key words which will guide you to texts explaining how each prophecy was fulfilled. There are a number of different methods to locate texts explaining the fulfillment of each prophecy. Learning each method is an important step in the process of learning proper Bible Study. If teaching people how to understand and study the Bible is your personal ministry, you'll also want to read about how Jesus taught His disciples to study the Bible. That book is based on The Gospel of Mark from chapters 4 to 8. Here is a list of the books offered on Lulu.com.

Understanding Parables According to the Gospel of Mark: Chapters 1 to 8

Prophecies Fulfilled: Genesis to Deuteronomy

Prophecies Fulfilled: Joshua to Chronicles

After learning those easy methods to Study the Bible, you'll be able to look at the interpretation of any prophecy and instantly see if it's a reliable interpretation based on the Bible or someone's best guess at what they think it means. This series of books provides the detailed fulfillment of over 100 prophecies in the Bible showing perfect consistency in God's Word. Each and every interpretation follows the same set of Bible Study rules in the proper sequence showing how God established perfect order in His book. God never needed anyone to fill in details He forgot. God never needed anyone to add to His Word from other sources. Once you see the perfect order the fulfillment for each prophecy is recorded in the Bible, you'll see unmistakeable evidence showing only God could have written the collection of 66 books we refer to as the Bible. After learning how God placed absolute, unbroken, unblemished order in His Bible, you'll never guess at another interpretation again.

While studying with a number of pastors, one question seemed to always come up. The deeper we dug into God's Word the more we discussed or questioned how to describe God's timing? It seemed like the most difficult subject to explain. While writing this book I stumbled upon an easy explanation discussed in Psalms 69:14-31 Sour Wine - Understanding God's Timing. That study and following studies will show you how to understand God's timing and how He uses it to bring out more details in the lesson.

You can search the Internet, other books, look where ever you want, but you won't find another book like this. Your more than welcome to copy any of these studies or portions to teach other people how to study the Bible. All you need to do is simply ask for permission by sending me an E-mail at: [e-mail]

You'll also find dozens of details in these studies few if any people considered, taught, or wrote about. You'll see how God's Word goes much deeper when parallel chapters are compared in the way God intended. Feel free to share this information. You'll also learn how to pray and enter into God's presence while listening to His voice. It's an experience you'll never give up once you learn to sit at God's throne to learn at His feet. This book also shows how Jesus prayed and how Jesus acted on God's Word and under the guidance of His Spirit. This book is not only a collection of stories teaching people how to study the Bible, it is handbook teaching a spiritual experience few people discover.

Chapter 1 - Psalms 2:1-6 Why Are the Nations Angry

Psalms 2:1-6 NLTse Why are the nations so angry? Why do they waste their time with futile plans?  (2) The kings of the earth prepare for battle; the rulers plot together against the LORD and against his anointed one.  (3)  "Let us break their chains, they cry, and free ourselves from slavery to God."  (4)  But the one who rules in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them.  (5)  Then in anger he rebukes them, terrifying them with his fierce fury.  (6)  For the Lord declares, I have placed my chosen king on the throne in Jerusalem, on my holy mountain.

Before we begin the first lesson, it's a good idea to review basic study rules covered in previous books. Look for and highlight words that are the same, similar, or related. Those key words tell us two things. The main theme of the texts we are studying. Bible authors follow a pattern of repeating key words to draw reader's attention to the main theme. Key words are also used to search for parallel texts, which lead to parallel chapters. Context is found in the introduction and summary of chapters. Parallel chapters can have similar or contrasting themes which focus on the same spiritual lessons. It can be difficult to understand Bible study lessons without proper examples. The good news is, God knew we needed good examples. He knew exactly how people would take His simple Word and examples then come up with the most confusing ways of explaining the simple methods God installed in scripture thousands of years ago. There's never any reason to be confused or intimidated when it comes to Bible Study. When God wrote His book, He included the rules... all of them. The best news is, all of God's study rules were placed in the prophecies about His Son, Jesus. Not only does God's plan of salvation provide forgiveness, redemption, and a direct path to God's throne – God's plan also includes simple lessons so each of us can learn to study His Word, stand in awe, and give all the glory to Him.

We see some of the fiercest words in the Bible at the beginning of Psalm 2. David lays it on the line. They are wasting their time when they plot against God and His Anointed One. This is also one of the easiest New Testament texts to find since it is quoted in Acts chapter 4.

Acts 4:24-30 NLTse  When they heard the report, all the believers lifted their voices together in prayer to God: "O Sovereign Lord, Creator of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them--  (25)  you spoke long ago by the Holy Spirit through our ancestor David, your servant, saying, 'Why were the nations so angry? Why did they waste their time with futile plans?  (26)  The kings of the earth prepared for battle; the rulers gathered together against the LORD and against his Messiah.' (27)  "In fact, this has happened here in this very city! For Herod Antipas, Pontius Pilate the governor, the Gentiles, and the people of Israel were all united against Jesus, your holy servant, whom you anointed.  (28)  But everything they did was determined beforehand according to your will.  (29)  And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word.  (30)  Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus."

Notice how only a small part of Psalm 2 is quoted. Look at the details found when the Old Testament texts is read.  "Let us break their chains, they cry, and free ourselves from slavery to God." But the one who rules in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them. I've mentioned how much God teaches with repetition, here's another example. Did you ever notice how often Jesus quoted scripture? Almost every time He answered a question. The pattern is repeated in Acts. The thing that fascinates me is – if the religious leaders bothered to look at scripture Jesus sent them to, there is no way they would have crucified Him. Take a look at this small detail and think about it for a moment. Why is so much of the New Testament made up of Old Testament texts? I'll bet you didn't know this. A large amount of Paul's letters are actually quotes from the Old Testament. As much as thirty percent or more of some of Paul's letters are quotes from the Old Testament. Why is that you may ask? For one thing, all of those quotes make it impossible for anyone to separate the New Testament from the Old. I've heard some preachers try to do it, but never met one. Here is another fact that may surprise you. I want you to take a look back at all the studies you read, all the seminars you attended, and all the sermons you heard. Did anyone ever point out this little fact? Look at the lesson in Acts 4, you spoke long ago by the Holy Spirit through our ancestor David, your servant, saying." Did anyone ever explain to you the fact this term is repeated in the Bible hundreds of times for a reason. You may be asking why. There are two reasons for this. Either they don't know, or don't want you to know. Let's examine why preachers do not want you to know how to read and study the Bible.

How long has it been since anyone discovered anything new in the Bible? God's been revealing new light in every generation. What happened to our generation? Did their god run out of information to share? I can give you one little revelation a serious student of the Bible will see. Look at the story about Jesus' temptation in the wilderness. Pay attention to ALL the words and the timing. There was a preparation time included. How long did Jesus fast? When did Satan come on the scene? How many sermons have you heard on this story --- I know each one left out vital details. Did they tell you what Jesus did during those forty days? Did anyone explain how Jesus prepared for the confrontation? Did anyone bother to show you how Jesus answered Satan? Did they explain the entire chapter Jesus' first answer came from? Did they tell you how that chapter answered all of Satan's temptations? Did they explain Satan's limitations? Why not? Why would one of God's warriors not equip you with the proper armor to go out into the world as one of God's soldiers? If your preacher has, that's great. If they haven't, how much more are you missing? Why have the so called world's greatest minds of the most advanced society on earth withheld so many basic details in the Bible at a time you need it most?

Let's stop fooling ourselves. Every Christian denomination claims there will be an outpouring of God's Spirit before Jesus returns. Where is it? Why are they delaying this outpouring? Come on now... the strangest religions in the most isolated areas in the world claim there will be an outpouring of new understanding before the end of the world. The entire world seems to agree, but whose looking? Whose searching? Who cares? Why have they stopped searching?

Years ago the United States and other countries got into counting. The common term is census. Governments collected all kinds of facts and figures. For what? To identify, prepare for, and solve problems. They wouldn't think of asking God's help, but thought with enough facts and figures, they could solve any problem. Soon churches joined the frenzy. They were not only included in Government census, but started their own. There was a reason God told David not to number Israel. David didn't have to pay the price, but his people did. This is a prophecy repeated today. Get on your computer and see. You can search every fact and figure about any church you choose. But what about finding new insight to God's Word? Getting the picture here? How did it happen? What went wrong? Churches got caught up in numbers – their main concern today. To increase numbers they compromised – changed the way they wanted their preachers to study the Bible, or shall we say, AVOID studying the Bible at all cost. It seemed to change overnight. Common sense left the world as darkness crept in. "Let us break their chains, they cry, and free ourselves from slavery to God." To free themselves from God, scholars threw out the basic rules of Bible study. The very rules contained within God's Word discovered long ago and taught for generations. To cover truth they needed a deception so close to truth common people would never notice. Man made up a newer, simpler set of rules... one they could control. Inductive study and context have been replaced by a new form of study referred to as proof texts. The steps are contrary to God and His Word. The steps for proof texts study are simple, there are only three. Develop a concept. Find texts supporting that concept. Check the results against the doctrine you practice. No where does Jesus teach such blasphemy. No where does the Bible support any concept which begins with man's concept of what to think and how to think. But the one who rules in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them. The question remains – do  world religious authorities preach proof texts studies from ignorance, or control? All of this is tied into the numbers game, designed to divide denominations instead of bringing them together to drink deep of the pure, untainted water of Christ. To wash the feet of fellow disciples in a show of humility and unity.

Jesus' disciples had an attitude quite different from today. A casual reading of the New Testament will show how they struggled to keep the young growing church united. I doubt if church leaders will ever get together to celebrate communion, the observance of the last supper, or an ordinary dinner. For one thing, they would never agree what to eat. If it should be clean, or unclean meats, or no meats at all. Their happy with what separates them... they are deceived into thinking that's what makes their church grow.  I always thought it was Jesus who made a church grow. "Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus." This isn't a new problem. The disciples saw the same problem creep into the early church. People wanted to join the church and bring in a few of their customs. So what is the difference between customs, doctrine, and tradition? Why does every church have custom doctrines, traditions and make them the focus of their study, sermons, and messages? What happened to the simple message Jesus gave His disciples? What happened to simply preaching about what Jesus accomplished? It was enough to hold the early church together. It seems the world just broke down and accepted division. It seems that's what makes the world happy. Census, numbers, division, and proof texts. A simple plan – man's plan – but not God's plan of salvation.

Time to put away influences running free across the world. No one's doctrines are on trial here. That's for you to determine on your own. All I want to do is tell you what kind of deceptions to look out for. What good is that? Once one is exposed, the devil has a list of others to take its place. If you looked at how Jesus answered Satan, you already know Satan's limitations. Let's face it, Satan is missing one vital link to God's Word, His Spirit. We need to look at God's Word as it's written – test it, ask questions, wait for answers. It's not only words we're looking at but God's personality and wisdom. We see a portion of that in His creation and another little part in how His lessons effected His followers. We see this revealed in the introduction to Acts 4.

Acts 4:1-4 NLTse  While Peter and John were speaking to the people, they were confronted by the priests, the captain of the Temple guard, and some of the Sadducees.  (2)  These leaders were very disturbed that Peter and John were teaching the people that through Jesus there is a resurrection of the dead.  (3)  They arrested them and, since it was already evening, put them in jail until morning.  (4)  But many of the people who heard their message believed it, so the number of believers now totaled about 5,000 men, not counting women and children.

What do we see in this introduction and how does it compare to the introduction in Psalm 2? Peter and John were confronted by all the religious leaders. The kings of the earth prepare for battle; the rulers plot together against the LORD and against his anointed one. Those leaders were very disturbed that Peter and John were teaching the people that through Jesus there is a resurrection of the dead. Look at the detail. Why did they arrest Peter and John? Almost every Christian denomination believes in one form of resurrection or another. They may be all over the map on their beliefs, from the moment of death all the way to the moment Jesus returns. That's not the point, but you can see how man's common method of study, proof texts will miss the point in this chapter. This is why it's important to study repetition to reveal the lesson. The kings and leaders stood against the Anointed One, Jesus who is the resurrection and life. Now ask why and how they stood against Jesus. If the religious leaders didn't believe in a resurrection what did they believe in? Were they of the opinion only people living at the moment their Messiah appeared would reign with Him forever? Why did the religious leaders twist their own beliefs? For control. See how the Bible is showing the problem we're facing today? See how easily proof texts can be laid aside when control is at stake? If we only looked at the Old Testament we see signs of a resurrection. Many of David's Psalms talk about his reign in the distant future. The religious leaders knew David was dead. They talked about his future reign. To arrest Peter and John they threw their beliefs out the window to regain control.

Now to put yourself into the scene, another important step to understand scripture. Imagine yourself in prison with Peter and John. Pray about the scene and look at the image in your mind. What is God showing you? Look back at scripture that comes to mind. Look at how details show Peter and John reactions at the time. Look back at what they experienced and learned before the event. In this case ask yourself what this trial accomplished.

Jesus took Peter and John up a mountain with another disciple where they met Moses and Elijah. They also heard God's voice and trembled in fear. Peter often jumped to conclusions, answering questions before he understood them. Peter was always trying to outdo the other disciples. John was the biggest in size. Was physical power going to win John a special seat next to Jesus? Peter and John often argued about who was the greatest. Look at when they brought up the subject. Every time Jesus tried to tell them about the prophecies He was going to fulfill on the cross.

Peter and John were thrown into a small cell in the deepest, darkest dungeon. There seemed no way out. The smell was worse than they ever imagined. The floors were slimy and so were the walls. It seemed as if the cell was intentionally littered to make them suffer more. A thought occurred to John. He wondered what the pit was like that Daniel was thrown into. No one left the lions out. They ate, slept, performed all their functions in that pit and finally died in the hole. All the lions could do is wait for another meal. John wondered if the angel who spent the night with Daniel did anything to light the cave or counter the smell. For a while they didn't speak. Peter thought about how he told Jesus he would die with Him, and later denied Him. John's mind wondered over the times he interrupted Jesus every time He brought up the prophecies. Jesus recounted those events when He sat down to reveal everything after His resurrection. Peter and John were sure of the resurrection. They saw Jesus in the flesh and in the Spirit. When Peter's mind rested upon this assurance, he asked John. Remember when Jesus took us up the mountain? Even in the stench the memory brought a smile to John's face. Yes, he relied. A few moments of silence went by in the darkness. Neither one of the disciples knew if they would live to see another day, or if they were going to live out their last days in that dingy, dark dungeon. John turned to Peter in the dark, reached out, put his hand on him and asked, forgive me brother? I don't want to be greater than you. All I want to do is share the comfort Jesus gave us. Peter was speechless. For what seemed to be the first time in his life, Peter didn't know what to say. Finally Peter asked, John can you forgive me?

It took a great trial for Peter and John to see their weakness which they always considered their strength. After learning at Jesus' side for three and a half years, and forty days at His feet, God's Spirit was still teaching them. In the deepest, darkest, dirtiest hole they could imagine, God's Spirit reached out and touched each of the disciples. They were ready to preach together. Their first test was to defend their Savior at their trial. The summation of Acts 4 tells the outcome of their trial. When we compare it to the summation in Psalm 2 we see another dimension of the story revealed.

Psalms 2:11-12 NLTse  Serve the LORD with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling.  (12)  Submit to God's royal son, or he will become angry, and you will be destroyed in the midst of all your activities-- for his anger flares up in an instant. But what joy for all who take refuge in him!

Acts 4:33-37 NLTse  The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God's great blessing was upon them all.  (34)  There were no needy people among them, because those who owned land or houses would sell them  (35)  and bring the money to the apostles to give to those in need.  (36)  For instance, there was Joseph, the one the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement). He was from the tribe of Levi and came from the island of Cyprus.  (37)  He sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles.

It's interesting to think of what Peter and John may have thought about the conclusion in Psalm 2. Of course the lessons Jesus taught them were still on their minds. What did serving the Lord in fear and trembling mean to them? After escaping the grasp of the religious leaders, trembling was fresh on their minds along with thoughts of rejoicing. Psalm 2 was no longer only words, but an experience. Peter and John knew exactly what it meant to find joy in God's refuge. This was another spring board for Peter and John who went out and testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God's great blessing was upon them all.

What about the people who gave up all they had? Did they do it through fear? I see a lot of women saying they're looking for a God fearing man and wonder what they mean by it. I'm not sure they know what they mean or what they're looking for. When I chat with them, they seem to have little or no idea what they're looking for or how to tell if a Christian is for real or putting on a show. I had that experience in my life and learned the lesson the hard way. Looking at the story in Acts 4, we see another important detail that helps answer this question. As soon as they were freed, Peter and John returned to the other believers and told them what the leading priests and elders had said. When they heard the report, all the believers lifted their voices together in prayer to God: O Sovereign Lord, Creator of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them-- you spoke long ago by the Holy Spirit through our ancestor David, your servant, saying, 'Why were the nations so angry? Why did they waste their time with futile plans? The kings of the earth prepared for battle; the rulers gathered together against the LORD and against his Messiah.' In fact, this has happened here in this very city! For Herod Antipas, Pontius Pilate the governor, the Gentiles, and the people of Israel were all united against Jesus, your holy servant, whom you anointed. But everything they did was determined beforehand according to your will. And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus." After this prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness. All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had. (Acts 4:23-32 NLTse).

A closer look at scripture shows all the believers lifted up their voices in prayer, reciting the prophecy in Psalm 2. God's Spirit gave all the believers the same thought at the same time. Has that ever happened to you? It happened to me. The week leading up to the day I published the second book in this series I talked to a number of people. They all brought up the same concern. They all saw how the world, especially those around them seemed unconcerned about developing a close relationship with God. People thought little about what Jesus is doing today, how He's calling out for workers, how He's looking down at a world that seems less concerned than the day before. It wasn't by mistake my friends shared the same concern. The series of events showed how important it is to share these simple concepts of Bible Study. Doctrines and traditions have little to do with a real relationship with Jesus. What would a marriage be like if week after week the rules of the household were discussed? You do the dishes, cooking, cleaning, clean the bathrooms, dust, vacuum, etc., etc.... What kind of a relationship would that make? Does it sound like fun to you? Is that what church sounds like? People churches are witnessing to today look at their message as the most boring, restrictive choice on earth. What choice do you think they're going to make? What's the message the church gives you? Don't do this, that or the other thing. We do this and that's what makes us better than others. Where did thinking they were better than the others get the disciples? That attitude led them in the wrong direction. They wanted to be the greatest and missed seeing hundreds of prophecies fulfilled in front of their eyes. What makes people today think they can harbor the same thoughts and selfishness the disciples displayed and not miss messages, lessons, and prophecies in front of them? How many have they missed already? When will time run out?

Chapter 2 - Psalms 2:6-12 The King

Psalms 2:6-12 NLTse  For the Lord declares, "I have placed my chosen king on the throne in Jerusalem, on my holy mountain."  (7)  The king proclaims the LORD's decree: "The LORD said to me, 'You are my son. Today I have become your Father.  (8)  Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, the whole earth as your possession.  (9)  You will break them with an iron rod and smash them like clay pots.'"  (10)  Now then, you kings, act wisely! Be warned, you rulers of the earth!  (11)  Serve the LORD with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling.  (12)  Submit to God's royal son, or he will become angry, and you will be destroyed in the midst of all your activities-- for his anger flares up in an instant. But what joy for all who take refuge in him!

When we look at Psalms 2:6-12, we see a number of repeated words. The most predominate word is king. This is the key word used to search for parallel texts in the New Testament. Search results show a number of choices. How do we determine which texts is located in what could be considered a parallel chapter? The first step is to review other repeated words in Psalms 2:6-12 to understand the main theme. We also see the word son, and the related word father. Earth and nation are grouped together with the related words, inheritance and possession, followed by break and smash. The texts closes with serve – submit to the Lord along with fear and trembling. One line also stands out. "The king proclaims the LORD's decree:" The Lord is placing a kingdom in the hands of His Son – with a warning – to obey Him, or face the consequences. One thing to keep in mind – or out of your mind while studying God's Word is – predetermined ideas, which will most likely lead you in the wrong direction. The world always has an influence on us. It's human nature to jump ahead to a conclusion, most likely formed by personal experiences. When we study God's Word we have to always be aware of how God uses symbols. One way of identifying a symbol is the fact it will most likely be repeated in a verse. God does this to draw attention to the word as well as point out – it is a symbol. People often try to interpret symbols on their own – which will often lead to the wrong conclusion. Words like iron rod and clay pot are obvious symbols. But notice they are not repeated. They are a form of contrasting words. In the same sentence God includes the related words, break and smash. Since iron rod and clay pot are symbols, we also have to consider break and smash in both a physical and spiritual sense. Since a spiritual iron rod is breaking and smashing spiritual clay pots, will God be physically or spiritually breaking the clay pots? It's also not a good idea to get side tracked by trying to identify symbols before properly identifying context. Symbols often have more than one spiritual meaning. It's possible to find one or more spiritual meanings of a symbol and apply the wrong meaning to the texts. Once we follow the general rules of context, you'll see how the spiritual meaning for many symbols is adequately explained when the spiritual lessons in the chapter are explained when comparing context between the prophecy and texts explaining its fulfillment.

You may be asking, how can we identify iron rod and clay pot as symbols if they are not repeated? Good question. This is where experience pays off. Other parts of the Bible us an iron rod and clay pots as major themes. Since they are not repeated in Psalms 2, attention is taken off the spiritual meaning of those two items and placed on the actions words, break and smash. Getting back to the key word king and searching the gospels for related – and knowing the theme of the related texts has to have the same theme of following God's Son, we find two distinct possibilities. In this study, we'll take a look at both and let you determine which one is related to the same theme found in Psalms chapter 2.

John 1:43-51 NLTse  The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, "Come, follow me.  (44)  Philip was from Bethsaida, Andrew and Peter's hometown.  (45)  Philip went to look for Nathanael and told him, We have found the very person Moses and the prophets wrote about! His name is Jesus, the son of Joseph from Nazareth.  (46)  Nazareth! exclaimed Nathanael. Can anything good come from Nazareth? Come and see for yourself," Philip replied.  (47)  As they approached, Jesus said, "Now here is a genuine son of Israel--a man of complete integrity.  (48)  How do you know about me?" Nathanael asked. Jesus replied, "I could see you under the fig tree before Philip found you.  (49)  Then Nathanael exclaimed, Rabbi, you are the Son of God--the King of Israel!"  (50)  Jesus asked him, Do you believe this just because I told you I had seen you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.  (51)  Then he said, "I tell you the truth, you will all see heaven open and the angels of God going up and down on the Son of Man, the one who is the stairway between heaven and earth."

John 1:43-51 offers some interesting details to examine. Nathanael described Jesus as, "the Son of God--the King of Israel! His statement uses the words Son and King, which provide a link to Psalms 2:6-12. When we look at other repeated words two stand out as contracts to key words in Psalms 2:6-12. The words, found and come invoke a feeling of calling a person while break and smash have the opposite effect on a person or relationship. God often uses contrast to explain a lesson. Psalms 2:6-12 is a warning, while John 1:43-51 is an example. The main theme in both texts center on a relationship with Jesus. John 1:43-51contains two examples. First Jesus found Philip and said to him, Come, follow me. We see the simple method Jesus used. Looking behind the scene, we see how Jesus attracted people by His actions while using few words. Philip went to look for Nathanael and told him, We have found the very person Moses and the prophets wrote about! His name is Jesus, the son of Joseph from Nazareth. At that point Nathanael has doubts. Is anything new today? Philip's reply was as simple as Jesus', Come and see for yourself. This shows how Philip was able to use what little he learned from Jesus to lead Nathanael to the Messiah. A lesson we have to keep in mind. We can compare Philip to one line in Psalms 2. The king proclaims the LORD's decree:" If you want you can search scripture on your own to find a connection between Jesus' disciples and the role of a king. For now, we need to stick to the lesson on context, which reveals much more than a simple word study looking for symbols and their meanings.

Looking at the overall contrasts between  Psalms 2:6-12 and John 1:43-51, we see details we may have missed when looking at these texts separately.  We have to remember, Psalms 2:6-12 is a prophecy and  John 1:43-51 is the fulfillment. When we look at the introduction of Psalms 2, we find a description of the main theme, which will add details to help us understand  Psalms 2:6-12.

Psalms 2:1-5 NLTse  Why are the nations so angry? Why do they waste their time with futile plans?  (2)  The kings of the earth prepare for battle; the rulers plot together against the LORD and against his anointed one.  (3)  "Let us break their chains, they cry, and free ourselves from slavery to God."  (4)  But the one who rules in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them.  (5)  Then in anger he rebukes them, terrifying them with his fierce fury.

Now we see why Psalms 2:6-12 is a warning and who it's given to. Stick to looking at the main theme and avoid trying to figure out who the kings and nations are. It's much more important to understand the context of the chapter than it is to search around for other texts to figure out who the kings and nations represent. This example shows how important the theme is. This warning is for kings and nations who want to plot against God. They claim God chains them down – restricts them. Look around at the world today. What kind of world would we have with no restraint? Then look at who is getting chained down here. Leaders or the people they are supposed to be protecting and serving? Now look at this in contrast to the story about Philip and Nathanael. Psalms 2 is about people running away from God. John 1 is about people coming to Jesus – and much more! People bringing other people to Jesus. What do kings do? The lead. When they have an attitude where they want to get rid of God, to be free from Him, where are they leading their loyal subjects? We see an even greater contrast when we look at the introduction to John 1.

John 1:1-5 NLTse  In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.  (2)  He existed in the beginning with God.  (3)  God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him.  (4)  The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.  (5)  The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.

Let's look at a short list of the key words in John 1:1-5:

God

Word

Created

Beginning

Light

Our attention is drawn to God and His Word. We're reminded God is our Creator. Why's it important to know, "In the beginning the Word already existed?" Where does that draw your mind to? This adds a wealth of information to better understand Psalms 2. Leaders in this world think highly of themselves, they want people to forget God created the world, and everything in it. If they don't see the light, they forget the Creator, they can't hear the Words, and they think this is escaping God's control. They try to break their chains one link at a time. Psalms 2:6-12 and John 1:43-51 are also the summations for each chapter. The last verse in each of these chapters also summarize the lesson.

Submit to God's royal son, or he will become angry, and you will be destroyed in the midst of all your activities-- for his anger flares up in an instant. But what joy for all who take refuge in him.

Then he said, "I tell you the truth, you will all see heaven open and the angels of God going up and down on the Son of Man, the one who is the stairway between heaven and earth."

When we compare the last verses of each chapter, it opens a new avenue of thought. We see a warning/request to follow God's Son – or he will be angry. This is immediately followed by the reminder of a blessing. The blessing found in Psalms 2 is explained in John 1. Angels going up and down a ladder between Heaven and earth remind us of what story? Many people call it Jacob's ladder, a name that draws attention away from Heaven and places it on earth. Using basic rules of Bible study, we look back to see what events led up to the story when Jacob saw the ladder. His mother Rebecca wanted to make sure Jacob received Isaac's blessing and not his older brother, the first born, Esau. Rebecca comes up with an elaborate plan to trick Isaac. It worked and Jacob received his father's blessing under false pretenses. Of course Esau is enraged and Jacob has to flee to save his life. When Jacob is out in the middle of the desert by himself, God gives him a vision of this ladder with angels going up and down. So what does all that mean? Was all that arranged to make Jacob feel better? Why are angels going up and down a ladder? For exercise? No!! The angels are bringing messages, one at a time. Look what happens when we pray and look at God's Word one detail at a time. Look at Isaac's father. Abraham drew closer to God one step at a time. You can see how Abraham began to rely on God more and prayed more as life went on. Abraham learned from his experiences. But when it came time to pass along the family blessing, did Isaac pray about it, or did he make up his own mind? How was Isaac drawn away from God? What influence did Rebecca have on him? Jacob found himself at Laban's home. Laban is Rebecca's brother. When Jacob finally left, his second wife Rachael stole the family idols. We see Rebecca left the idols, but their influence went with her. Instead of correcting, reminding and encouraging Isaac to pray, she relied on herself and her whits. When it came to the blessing, Isaac and Rebecca both thought they had the matter under control. What about Jacob's wives? Which wife suggested a second marriage, or which wife approved of another marriage? Jacob's first wife Leah was hated and neglected, but she was able to give Jacob son's right away. Leah had to wait for the love she longed for. In his old age, Jacob eventually saw the mistake he made. Then Jacob instructed them, "Soon I will die and join my ancestors. Bury me with my father and grandfather in the cave in the field of Ephron the Hittite. This is the cave in the field of Machpelah, near Mamre in Canaan, that Abraham bought from Ephron the Hittite as a permanent burial site. There Abraham and his wife Sarah are buried. There Isaac and his wife, Rebekah, are buried. And there I buried Leah. (Genesis 49:29-31 NLTse).

When we look at the ladder God placed between Heaven and earth, we see how angels bring us one message at a time. One lesson to build upon another. How many angels can get on or off a ladder at one time? One! From a young age we've been taught that the Ladder Jacob saw represents a link with God and the hope and comfort it brings. But it seems we are like Isaac, who forgot to pray and lost two sons because of it. We forgot God's comfort comes through the communication He has with us. The ladder is for going up and down – showing a two way communication – one conversation at a time.

To say God's Word operates in mysterious ways is an understatement. We see how God has the ability to reveal so many interesting facts by looking back, as well as forward from the story known as Jacob's ladder. Jacob's brother Esau was a rebellious son to say the least. This is the account of the descendants of Esau (also known as Edom). Esau married two young women from Canaan: Adah, the daughter of Elon the Hittite; and Oholibamah, the daughter of Anah and granddaughter of Zibeon the Hivite. He also married his cousin Basemath, who was the daughter of Ishmael and the sister of Nebaioth. (Genesis 36:1-3 NLTse). Strange as it may seem, when we know Esau is  also known as Edom, we find another texts explaining why kings and nations exclaim they want to escape from God. You have been deceived by your own pride because you live in a rock fortress and make your home high in the mountains. 'Who can ever reach us way up here?' you ask boastfully. But even if you soared as high as eagles and built your nest among the stars, I would bring you crashing down," says the LORD. (Obadiah 1:3-4 NLTse). Leadership goes to their heads. Leaders put more effort into protecting what they have and accumulating more of what they want, than listening to God. No wonder God wants, or demands they listen to His Son. God's Spirit is trying to reach those kings, leaders, and nations. He is not giving up. Who may climb the mountain of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place? Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies. They will receive the LORD's blessing and have a right relationship with God their savior. Such people may seek you and worship in your presence, O God of Jacob. (Psalms 24:3-6 NLTse).

It's interesting how God linked chapters together in the Bible. This is an outstanding example of context showing how when the Bible is studied within context, it will reveal much more than simple word studies or searching for proof text. Neither one of those methods are able to reveal spiritual lessons in the Bible to such a degree. One chapter shows how people will turn away from God. The parallel chapter shows how God sent His Son to call them back by showing God's character. The New Testament chapter also reveals details showing how God communicates with us, and what happens when people like Rebecca and Rachael decide to follow their own ideas. Sure they run into problems when making poor choices, but God still tried to reach them. God eventually blessed Rachael with two sons, after she had time to look back over events in her life to see how her actions effected her husband Jacob, who she shared with her sister Leah and both their hand maidens. Did you ever consider how owning maidens effected their ability to make proper decisions, not to mention, raise the twelve children born to the four wives? Once we learn to take time to listen to God's voice, from angels going up and down our personal ladder, we see His Word in a whole new light.

Based on the key word king, Psalms 2:6-12 can be matched with a number of texts in the New Testament. Of course the above lesson shows how comparing context of both chapters allows us to see details explaining the common lesson we may have missed if we hadn't followed the simple rules of context. Searching the word king also leads us to Matthew 13:41-43. The first step is to check the introduction and summation – making sure they have some type of similar words to Psalm 2. Remember, key words and thoughts may actually be contrasts. With a little practice you will be able to quickly identify contrasts. Now a look at our second example.

Matthew 13:41-43 NLTse  The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will remove from his Kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil.  (42)  And the angels will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  (43)  Then the righteous will shine like the sun in their Father's Kingdom. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!

We also see Son connecting Matthew 13:41-43 to Psalms 2:6-12. The word Kingdom is related to king. Remember the rule – look for words that are the SAME, SIMILAR, and RELATED. Comparing  Matthew 13:41-43 to Psalms 2:6-12, the word throw is related to break and smash in Psalms 2:6-12. They follow and bring attention to the same thought.

throw them into the fiery furnace

break them with an iron rod

smash them like clay pots

As the prophecies Jesus fulfilled progresses through the Bible, we can see how God keeps adding lessons – which show us deeper spiritual lessons while getting us to think. The same general rules apply as the examples progress to advanced levels. Talk about planning! Only God could have planned and written a book like the Bible in the sequence He did. See how Psalms 2 gives a choice, like saying, there is still time. Matthew 13 begins the process of explaining consequences... a point where there is no return. No wonder the parallel texts in Matthew 13:43 states, "Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!" It will eventually reach a point of listening, or getting tossed into  the fiery furnace. Another interesting detail you may have noticed is how Matthew 13:41-43 and John 1:43-51 share the word angel. One has the angels going up and down a ladder to help us understand God's Word, the other tells us one of the roles God's angels will perform in the plan of salvation. Combine that with the choice we saw in the previous study which is reinforced in this study showing us how important it is to listen and understand while we still have time. We can't allow ourselves to be lulled into a sense of security by finding a single text (a few verses) that parallel the subject text. We have to follow all the rules by comparing the introduction and summation to compare context.

Matthew 13:1-9 NLTse  Later that same day Jesus left the house and sat beside the lake.  (2)  A large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat there and taught as the people stood on the shore.  (3)  He told many stories in the form of parables, such as this one: "Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seeds.  (4)  As he scattered them across his field, some seeds fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate them.  (5)  Other seeds fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seeds sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow.  (6)  But the plants soon wilted under the hot sun, and since they didn't have deep roots, they died.  (7)  Other seeds fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants.  (8)  Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted!  (9)  Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand."

It's not difficult to see, seed is the key word in the introduction of Matthew 13. Once again God introduces another valuable study rule. Usually it is not advised to jump all over scripture to find the meaning of symbols. In this case, Jesus reveals the meaning in the chapter. The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message about the Kingdom and don't understand it. Then the evil one comes and snatches away the seed that was planted in their hearts. (Matthew 13:19 NLTse). It may be difficult to see seed represents the message in Matthew 13. This is where a good understanding of the Bible pays off. When the same parable is recorded in more than one Gospel, it's a good idea to compare each version of the story. One author may bring out details another may  have missed. This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is God's word. (Luke 8:11 NLTse). Luke makes the meaning crystal clear. Now that we know the introduction centers on God's Word, we can see the parallel to Psalms chapter 2 where kings and nations plot against God. There is a relationship in the form of a contrast between the word, against. in Psalms 2 and, gather, in Matthew 13. The kings of the earth run away from God, while people gather around Jesus. Later in the chapter we see the disciples wanted to learn. They asked Jesus to explain the meaning of the parable. His answer was simple, and at the same time complicated. He replied, "You are permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others are not. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them. That is why I use these parables, For they look, but they don't really see. They hear, but they don't really listen or understand. (Matthew 13:11-13 NLTse). Jesus also quoted scripture, which is another rule of Bible study. Whenever scripture is quoted, it must become part of the study before a full understanding of the lesson can be achieved. This fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah that says, 'When you hear what I say, you will not understand. When you see what I do, you will not comprehend. For the hearts of these people are hardened, and their ears cannot hear, and they have closed their eyes-- so their eyes cannot see, and their ears cannot hear, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and let me heal them.' "But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. (Matthew 13:14-16 NLTse). Jesus' explanation shows exactly why kings are turning nations away from God and why they claim they need to break all connections with God. They don't want to be healed. They don't want the people they control healed. Of course, to understand we have to look at the original texts.

Isaiah 6:8-13 NLTse  Then I heard the Lord asking, "Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us? I said, Here I am. Send me.  (9)  And he said, Yes, go, and say to this people, 'Listen carefully, but do not understand. Watch closely, but learn nothing.'  (10)  Harden the hearts of these people. Plug their ears and shut their eyes. That way, they will not see with their eyes, nor hear with their ears, nor understand with their hearts and turn to me for healing.  (11)  Then I said, Lord, how long will this go on? And he replied, Until their towns are empty, their houses are deserted, and the whole country is a wasteland;  (12)  until the LORD has sent everyone away, and the entire land of Israel lies deserted.  (13)  If even a tenth--a remnant--survive, it will be invaded again and burned. But as a terebinth or oak tree leaves a stump when it is cut down, so Israel's stump will be a holy seed."

Following the general rules of context, we can see how the same points are emphasized in related texts. Note, not every repeated word is highlighted. It's a good idea to highlight and compare every key word, but we need to limit the length of this study and you will need something to study on your own. At this point our attention is drawn to the sequence Jesus' used to teach. Since listening, hearing, and understanding the Word are the main theme in Matthew 13, we owe it to God to follow His instructions, or wind up like the kings and nations in Psalms 2. Isaiah 6 also tells us, few people will make any attempt to understand... they are following the kings of the earth.

Jesus began by gathering a crowd around Him. He told the parable of the farmer, or sower scattering his seed. Jesus told His disciples that if they took time to understand this parable, they will receive more understanding. Then Jesus does what He does best, He sends them back to scripture which among other details, tells them very few people will be left to understand. But there will be a stump left, and out of the stump will come a holy seed. Next Jesus explains, seed represents the Word. How does the information from Psalms 2 help you to understand the parable of the sower? We still have more seed to gather – its found in the summation of Matthew 13.

Matthew 13:53-58 NLTse  When Jesus had finished telling these stories and illustrations, he left that part of the country.  (54)  He returned