THE OFFICIAL DOCTRINAL STATEMENT
OF THE Seventh-Day APOSTOLIC Evangelistic Ministries,
INCORPORATED
THE APOSTLES’ DOCTRINE
ACTS 2:42 GALATIANS 1:6-9
The following is a basic printing of the teachings of this Apostolic Fellowship. We present it in love and with a non-judgmental heart toward all others. This is published for your information and prayerful consideration.
I. The Basis For Our Creed, Discipline, Rules of Order And Doctrine - It is the faith of this local apostolic fellowship that our creed, discipline, rules of order and doctrine [teaching] be based simply upon the Holy Scriptures contained in the book known as the Holy Bible. (John 14:26; 17:17; 1 Corinthians 2:9-13; 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Acts 17:1).
II. Record of Membership - We hold that the names of all persons who are born again of water and of the Holy Spirit are kept on record in heaven. (Psalms 87:5,6; Acts 1:15; Luke 10:20; Philippians 4:3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 3:4; 13:8; 17:8).
III. How Names Are Blotted Out - The Scriptures teach clearly that one’s name may be blotted out of the book of life because of sins committed, not repented of and not confessed. (Exodus 12:33; Psalms 69:28; 109:13; Acts 3:19; 1 Corinthians 5:1-3, 9-1; 1 Peter 4:17; Revelation 3:5).
IV. The LORD (Yahweh)’s Standard of Obtaining Salvation - We hold earnestly and steadfastly to the Biblical requirements for salvation as simply being that one must believe the scriptures, confess and repent of sins, be baptized in water by immersion, be baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit and live a holy life according to what the Scriptures say (Mark 16:16; Luke 13:3,5; Acts 2:37-38; 8:16; 10:44-48; 19:1-6; 22:16; Colossians 2:12; 3:17; Galatians 3:27; 1 Peter 3:17-21; Ephesians 1:4; Colossians 1:22; Hebrews 12:14; 1 Peter 1:15,16).
V. Repentance And Remission of Sins - We hold that the only grounds upon which The LORD (Yahweh) will hear a sinner is through the avenue of repentance from the heart (John 9:31; Psalms 18:35-41; 34:14-19; 51:17; 66:18-20; Proverbs 15:29; Isaiah 1:12-19). The Holy Scriptures teach us that repentance and remission [forgiveness, blotting out, removal, washing away] of sins is available through the pronunciation of the name of our Savior in confession and water baptism (Mark 16:16; Luke 24:36-48; Acts 2:37-38; 3:17; 4:10-12; Ephesians 1:19-21).
VI. Divine Healing - The physical suffering of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) purchased healing for our bodies, as His death, burial and resurrection provided for the salvation of our souls, for “…with his stripes we are healed…” likewise, his physical suffering provide for our healing, “…He took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.” We see from this that healing for our body is in the atonement given on Calvary upon the tree. That being true it is for all who believe. Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) said of the believer that “…they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.” Later, James wrote, “Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the assembly; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) : And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” (Isaiah 53:4,5; Matthew 8:17; John 14:12-14; Mark 16:17; 1 Peter 2:24; James 5:14-16).
VII. The Passover Memorial Supper And Feet Washing - We hold that it is the blood of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) that atones for sin. It has always been that the atonement for sin was in the blood (Leviticus 17:1; Hebrews 9:13-15). There is dispute as to what the contents of the “cup” that Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) gave to His disciples at the Passover table. Based upon John 4:46; 19:34; Hebrews 9:19-20 we teach that there was water in the “cup”. Clearly Scripture ties in water baptism and the blood, both are for the “remission of sins” (Matthew 26:26-28; Acts 2:38; 1 John 5:6,8). Seeing that Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) was our great High Priest, He fulfilled the Law concerning the priesthood. Priests and Nazarites were forbidden to drink wine or any produce from the grape (Numbers 6:1-4; Judges 13:4-5,7,14; Leviticus 10:8-10; Ezekiel 44:21; Jeremiah 30:2-14; Proverbs 20:1; 23:29-32). We read in Numbers 28:7 that the drink offering was poured out. Nothing is said about it being drank by the Priests! If they did drink it, they would have transgressed the Law and polluted themselves (Leviticus 10:9-11; Numbers 6:1-3; 28:7; Judges 13:1-5; Proverbs 20:1; compare: 1 Timothy 3:3). Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) was our perfect example and therefore, without sin. He would not have transgressed the Law which commands abstinence from wine by the Priests or the Nazarites. He is our High Priest.
In the Old Testament we never see a “cup” for Passover only the lamb, unleavened bread and bitter herb. We do see in the Old Testament the “drink offering”, which comes from the Hebrew word nacak meaning, to pour out. Although it is called the “drink offering” it was never consumed by drinking, it was poured out on the altar of sacrifice!! Paul at the end of his ministry stated that he was “ready to be offered” [Greek word – spendomai, meaning, “poured out like a drink offering]. It is not possible that neither Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) nor the Apostle Paul referred to WINE in reference to the “cup” or “fruit of the vine”. Fermented wine is oinos in the Greek and never used for the Passover cup. Another Greek word gleukos, [fermented wine] is used only in Acts 2:13. In the New Testament wine is representative of wrath (Revelation 14:8,10; 16:19; 17:2).
Wine is a celebration drink in the Scriptures (John 2; Genesis 14:18; Deuteronomy 14:26; Ephesians 5:18). Neither wine nor grape juice is not appropriate for the solemn, deadly serious observance of the Passover (1 Corinthians 11:28). Wine inflames and perverts the thought process causing one to error and the offering table to become unclean (Isaiah 5:11,20-21; 28:1, 7-8). It was because the Rechabites honored their fathers commandment to abstain from wine forever that the promise of The LORD (Yahweh) to them was that they would never worry about a man to stand before Him forever (Jeremiah 35:1-19). From these we see that to have wine or a grape product at the Passover table is NOT good (1 Corinthians 11:17-22). Wine is a byproduct of the grape it is not the FIRSTFRUITS and therefore is disqualified to be used because it is not pure. Water is the purest form of any vine and is the FIRSTFRUITS of all vines before the juices of the vine are infiltrated therein.
From the Scriptures we see a close connection between blood and water (Hebrews 9:18-20; Leviticus 14:49-52; 16:24; Numbers 8:7; 19:9, 17-18,21; 15:15; Ezekiel 36:25; John 19:34; 1 John 5:6-8) From 1 Corinthians we see that Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) is the firstfruits sacrifice for man. According to the commandment, the offering of the people was to be their FIRSTFRUITS not a byproduct thereafter (1 Corinthians 15:20; Deuteronomy 18:4).
It is because of the foregoing truth from the Scriptures that as we observe the Passover Memorial Supper we use the emblems of Kosher Unleavened Bread and Water.
We observe the Passover once a year in its season as commanded and exemplified by Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) and the apostles in the Holy Scriptures (Exodus 12:15; Leviticus 23:1-5; Matthew 26:17-29; 1 Corinthians 5:6-8; 1 Peter 2:21).
The ordinance of washing feet is as much a divine command as any other New Testament ordinance. Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) gave us an example that we do even as He had done. He said that we ought to wash one another’s feet. “If ye know these things, happy are ye if you do them.” There is Scriptural proof that this ordinance was continued by the New Testament Apostolic Assembly in the days of the apostles (John 13:4-17; 1 Timothy 5:9-10).
VIII. Civil Government - All civil magistrates are ordained of The LORD (Yahweh) for peace, safety and the welfare of all people (Romans 13:1-10; Titus 3:1-2; 1 Peter 2:13-14). It is therefore, our duty to be in obedience to all requirements of the law that are not contrary to the Word of The LORD (Yahweh) and that do not force one to the violation of sixth commandment by bearing arms and murder in any form. It is our duty to honor without murmuring (Matthew 17:24-27; 22:17-21). And show respect to them in all lawful requirements of the civil government. We purpose to fulfill all the obligations of loyal citizens, but are constrained to declare against participation in combatant service in war, armed insurrections, property destruction, aiding or abetting in or the actual destruction of human life.
IX. Tithes And Offerings - We believe tithing is The LORD’S (Yahweh’s) financial plan to provide for His work and has been since the days of Abraham. It was through this method that The LORD (Yahweh) chose to finance the livelihood of His Leaders. Tithing came with faith under Abraham, Moses’ law enjoined it, Israel practiced it when it was right with The LORD (Yahweh), Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) endorsed it, and Paul the Apostle of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) said to lay by in store as The LORD (Yahweh) has prospered you [tithes and offerings]. We should not rob The LORD (Yahweh) of His portion, that is, tithes and liberal offerings (Malachi 3:6-12; Matthew 23:23; Genesis 14:17-20; 28:16-22; Deuteronomy 26:1-4, 10-11; Nehemiah 13:10-14; Numbers 18:21-28; Exodus 35:5). The method of begging, rallying, giving socials, shows, asking for offerings during street services and door to door witnessing to carry on The LORD (Yahweh)’s work is not the plan of The LORD (Yahweh).
X. The Second Coming of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) - We believe that Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) will come to earth the second time in person just as he left. This doctrine is clearly taught in the Holy Scriptures (Zechariah 14:1-5; Matthew 24:1; Acts 1:1; 3:19-21; 1 Corinthians 1:7-8; 11:26; Philippians 3:20-21; Titus 2:13; Jude 14-15; Revelation 17:14; 19:17-20). His return will be a visible one to all and shall be as the lightening which flashes across the sky (Revelation 1:7). It is at this event that The LORD (Yahweh) will clothe His people with immortality. His return will be a glorious event. His reward will be with Him to give unto every man according as His deeds shall be (1 Corinthians 15:51-54; Matthew 16:27).
XI. The Translation of The Saints - We believe that the catching away of the saints follows the second coming of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) . It is at this time that all the dead in the Messiah will rise out of their graves and we which are alive and remain who are in the Messiah will be translated them (the saved resurrected dead) to meet Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) in the clouds of heaven (Matthew 24:36-42; Luke 17:20-37; 1 Corinthians 15:51; Philippians 3:20,21; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17). Whereas, the Word of The LORD (Yahweh) teaches the imminent second coming of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) , we hold that this event is near and even at hand. It may occur at any moment (Matthew 24:23-28, 36-41; Mark 13:24-31; Luke 21:25-33; Daniel 7:13; 1 Thessalonians 4:13; Revelation 1:7). For this cause we should live as though this is our last moment (Hebrews 12:14).
It is the illustration of the Scriptures that The LORD (Yahweh) delivers His people after the plagues not in the midst or before them (Psalms 91; 46; 1 Corinthians 10:11; Daniel 3:16-28; Revelation 16:15; 15:8; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3,8). It is therefore the teaching of this apostolic fellowship that we shall go through the tribulation and be caught up at the end thereof at the second coming of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) . We believe it is this event that shall bring an end to this age.
XII. The Tribulation And The Millennium - We believe that the distress upon the earth at the time of this writing is only the “beginning of sorrows” and will become more and more intense until there “…shall be a time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time…” (Matthew 24:21; Daniel 12:1; Romans 11:25-27).
The period of “tribulation” will be followed by the second coming of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) and the dawn of a better day on earth. This new day is known as the one thousand year reign of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) upon the earth or the Millennium. During this time there shall be “peace on earth and good will toward men,” (Isaiah 13; Joel 2:1-11; Amos 5:18-19; Matthew 5:5). At the end of this period, Satan will be released from the bottomless pit where he was placed at the second coming of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) , and subsequently destroyed as he and his demons attempt to destroy the Holy City (Revelation 20:1-6; Isaiah 2; 1; 65:17-25; Daniel 2:44; 7:27; Micah 4:1; Habakkuk 2:14).
XIII. The Final Judgment - When the thousand years are finished there shall be a resurrection of the wicked dead who will be summoned before the Great White Throne to receive their condemnation. It is at this time that those whose names were not found in the Lambs book of life shall be cast into the lake of fire that burns with fire and brimstone which The LORD (Yahweh) has prepared for the Devil and his demons. It is in this lake of fire that the wicked will be recipients of the second death, forever separated and destroyed from the presence of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) . This is not a form of eternal life in torment it is the SECOND DEATH! (Malachi 3:1-5; 4:1-6; Mark 13:28; John 15:2,4,6,; Revelation 20:5-15; Matthew 24:32,41-46; Revelation 21:8; ).
XIV. The State of the Dead - In the Holy Scriptures the question is asked by Job, “when a man dies and is laid away, he breathes his last and where is he?” (Job 14:10). We find in the Holy Scriptures the answer comes from the very beginning of time. Man became a living soul when the breath of life was breathed into him by our Creator The LORD (Yahweh). (Genesis 2:7; 1 Corinthians 15:45). It is because of sin that all men die and return to the dust from whence they came (Genesis 2:17; Romans 5:12). It is at death that the spirit [breath] goes back to The LORD (Yahweh) who gave it (Ecclesiastes 12:7). The Holy Scriptures call this event “sleep” (John 11:11-14; Psalms 94:17). The Holy Scriptures teach us that the dead do not praise the Almighty (Psalms 94:17; 115:17). It is clearly put forth in the Holy Scriptures that at death our thoughts, concerns and desires regarding anything in this world cease. We know nothing that takes place here in the lives of others we may love and no remembrance of any evil or good that was done when we were alive (Ecclesiastes 9:5,6,10; Job 7:9,10; 14:12,21; 2 Samuel 12:22,23; 2 Kings 22:20; Psalms 6:5; Psalms 88:10-12; 115:17; 146:4; Isaiah 38:18,19). The Hebrew word “Sheol” and the Greek word “Hades” mean the same, simply grave. Our Savior, Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) said clearly that no one [man who has died] was in heaven. We also can clearly see from the Holy Scriptures that after the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) from the grave, David the King was yet in his grave awaiting the resurrection. The Scriptures show us that the grave is our house of waiting (John 3:13; Acts 2:29,34; Job 17:13,15,16; Genesis 37:35). Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) taught us that He would go away and prepare a place for us and He would come again and receive us unto Himself (John 14:2,3). Immortality [eternal life] is given at the time one exercises faith, repentance and baptism. The manifestation thereof is not until the return of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) at the catching away of the saints (1 Corinthians 15:53; 1 Timothy 6:15,16; Romans 2:6,7). ONLY THOSE WHO ARE THE REDEEMED WILL RECEIVE ETERNAL LIFE (Romans 6:23; 1 Timothy 1:10; 1 John 2:17; 3:15; 5:11-12; Revelation 2:11). Those who are wicked will be as though they had never been (Malachi 4:1,3; Obadiah 16; Psalms 92:7; 9:5,6; 94:23; Proverbs 24:20; Isaiah 41:12; 13:9; Nahum 1:10; Matthew 10:28; 13:30,40; Romans 2:12; 1 Corinthians 3:17; Philippians 3:19; 1 Timothy 6:9; Hebrews 10:26,27; 2 Peter 3:7,9; Revelation 11:18; 20:9). The Holy Scriptures teach clearly that there will be a resurrection of the dead – that resurrection will be when Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) returns for the consummation of this age (Acts 24:15; John 5:28-29; Daniel 12:2; Revelation 20:4-6; 1 Corinthians 15:26,53; Revelation 2:1; 21:4). It is suggested that all read the articles “Lazarus and the Rich Man” and “The Truth About Hell and the Grave” for examinations of the objections to this truth.
XV. A Wholly Sanctified Life - We believe that in order to escape the judgment of The LORD (Yahweh) and to have the hope of enjoying the glory of life eternal, one must be thoroughly saved from his sins, wholly sanctified unto The LORD (Yahweh) and filled with the Holy Spirit. A wholly (completely) sanctified life is the only true goal of a saint of The LORD (Yahweh) (Hebrews 12:14; 1 Peter 1:15-17; Ephesians 4:1-5:21).
XVI. The Creator's Personage (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) - We believe in the mystery of The LORD (Yahweh)'s personage. We hold that The LORD (Yahweh) has been pleased to manifest Himself as Father in that He created all things (The LORD (Yahweh) – His true Hebrew name), Son in that He is the fleshly manifestation of the Father for the purpose of providing redemption for all mankind (Jesus (Yahshua)– His true Hebrew name) and Holy Spirit indwelling the believer today (1 Corinthians 8:6; Matthew 1:21-23; John 14:26; Acts 5:1-4). We hold that according to the Holy Scriptures there is only ONE THE LORD (YAHWEH) who manifested Himself in three principle manners to mankind (John 14:6-12; Matthew 1:18; 1 Timothy 3:16; Colossians 1:15-19; Isaiah 43:10-11; 9:6). We deny the Trinitarian doctrine which is a 2nd Century development of the Roman Catholic Church and was never taught by the patriarchs, prophets, Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) or His disciples. Ask for the article “60 Questions on the Trinity.”
XVII. Water Baptism In Yahshua’s (Jesus’) Name - We believe that one baptism by immersion should be administered in the name of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) (Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) in the Hebrew language) for the remission of sins only to persons who have reached the age of understanding. We are baptized into the body of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) or born again via the avenue of water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) and the infilling of the Holy Spirit according to the teachings of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) and the example of the New Testament Apostolic Assembly. Water baptism is essential to salvation and is the only avenue through which our sins are washed away. (Acts 2:37-28; 8:12,38; 9:18; 16:15,33; 18:8; 10:47-48; 19:1-6; 22:16; Romans 6:1-4; Colossians 2:12; 3:17; Galatians 3:27; 1 Peter 3:18-22).
XVIII. The Baptism And Infilling of the Holy Spirit - We believe that the Holy Spirit comes upon some at certain periods of time in their walk with The LORD (Yahweh). This we conclude is the “baptism” of the Holy Spirit. The individual is covered by the presence of The LORD (Yahweh) coming upon them but not in them. The baptism of the Holy Spirit takes place prior to the infilling thereof (Matthew 3:16; 12:18; Luke 4:18; Acts 2:3; 8:16; 10:44; 19:6). We hold that the infilling of the Holy Spirit is just that, the Holy Spirit taking up residence in the life and body of the believer. The believer is therefore “filled” with the Holy Spirit which is verified by the believer speaking in other tongues as the Holy Spirit gives the utterance (Acts 2:1-4; 8:17; 10:44-48; 19:1-6).
XIX. The Gift of Speaking in Tongues - We believe that the initial utterance of tongues given when one is “filled” with the Holy Spirit is completely different from the “gift of tongues” spoken of by Paul in 1 Corinthians 14. Paul speaks of one interpreting tongues and then speaks of one who speaks in tongues speaking not unto men but unto The LORD (Yahweh). This utterance is the prayer language of the individual and is not for public interpretation. We therefore do not forbid the speaking in tongues in public services. We hold that the “gift of tongues” is for use by the saints and will be interpreted by the Holy Spirit in services as The LORD (Yahweh) permits.
XX. Saintly Dress And Adornment - We believe that the saints will adorn themselves in modest apparel. Holiness encompasses our dress and adornment. We do NOT condemn people because of their dress and adornment! We encourage all to seek a closer walk with The LORD (Yahweh) and as they grow in grace and in knowledge they will abide by the dictates of the Holy Scriptures. It is our request that in the regards of our men that they will wear loose fitting clothing, be neatly groomed with their hair closely cut and not on their shoulders. In regards to short pants that they be kept at least one and a half inches above the knee. Short sleeve shorts be kept moderately covering the arm pits. In regards to women it is our request that dresses be kept at least two inches below the knee when seated, sleeves be at least one inch above the elbow and that blouses conceal all chest areas and not see-through in any manner. Regarding hair, it is our request that the hair be not shaven from scalp, colored or with any ornamentation therein. Any make-up should be kept to natural skin tone if any at all. Clear fingernail polish only may be worn with no ornamentation. Shoes and accessories should be free of ornamentation. Jewelry should be kept to a watch, one bracelet, small earrings, small necklace, a wedding and or a class ring. In regards to the wearing of pants by women, it is permissible to fulfill a work requirement, in the home or when doing out door activities which may require bending, stooping, climbing or any other thing that would otherwise expose one in a none discrete fashion (1 Corinthians 11:1-16; 1 Timothy 2:9-10; 1 Peter 3:1-7; Genesis 24:61-65; 38:12-19; Song of Solomon 5:7). Regarding the use of a head coving for the women, in 1 Corinthians 11:16 the Greek word for “covering” is “peribolaion” meaning, something thrown around one, that is, a mantle, veil, covering, vesture. It comes from the Greek word, “periballo”, which means, to clothe, put on, to invest with clothing. A hat or veil is considered as clothing. Therefore, it is requested that all women when in worship, prayer, Bible Study or any service held at the Assembly Temple please wear a hat or veil of some type. Thank you.
XXI. Women In Ministry - The Holy Scriptures teach that in the last days the Holy Spirit would be poured out upon all flesh and that our sons AND daughters shall prophesy. The Holy Scriptures give the freedom to women to prophesy (that is, utter divine declarations from The LORD (Yahweh)) and to pray in the Apostolic Assembly (Acts 2:14-18; 1 Corinthians 11:1-16). We use the title Prophetess and Elect Lady in regards to women who function within the Apostolic Assembly (Luke 2:36-39; Acts 21:9; 2 John 1,13). Women were also entrusted with the ministry of teaching and worked along side of their husbands sharing the Word of The LORD (Yahweh) with others (Acts 18:1-2,24-28). We believe that a woman may hold the Assembly in the absence of a qualified ordained male Elder or assigned to that work by a duly authorized apostle (2 John 1,13). While we do not find detailed information in the Holy Scriptures regarding the gender of those holding the office of Apostle and Evangelist, we see from the Scriptural example that ALL THE APOSTLES and EVANGELISTS were MEN. We also find that the office of Bishop is limited to men only. The Scripture clearly teaches that the Bishop must be the HUSBAND of one wife (Acts 21:8; 2 Timothy 4:1-5; 1 Timothy 3:1-7). We further hold that outside of the teaching and prophetic ministry when it comes to the preaching of the Holy Scriptures be left to men… women are not permitted to teach or usurp authority over the man but to be in subjection and silence (1 Corinthians 14:34-35; 1 Timothy 2:11-12). We accept women who have been placed in a Pastoral role by the Apostle of the jurisdiction and refer to her as the "ELECT LADY" (2 John Verses 1,13). Women also have a vital teaching ministry as they teach other women and children preparing them to live lives of piety, holiness and to be an example in the home (Proverbs 31:10-31; Titus 2:3-5).
XXII. Secret Societies and Clubs - According to the Word of The LORD (Yahweh) we firmly believe and teach that the people of The LORD (Yahweh) should have no connection whatever with secular or religious oriented secret societies, such as, the Eastern Stars, the Masonic Lodge, the Royal Order of the Elks, and the such like or any other organization or body wherein is a fellowship of unbelievers bound by an oath, this includes labor unions. We are to be content with our wages and such things as we have (Ephesians 5:5-11; Romans 12:1-2; Titus 2:111-15; James 5:3,7; 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1; 1 Timothy 6:8; Hebrews 13:5; Luke 3:14).
XXIII. The Seventh-Day Sabbath - The Holy Scriptures teach the observance of the seventh-day of the week (Friday at sunset through Saturday at sunset) as a day of rest and worship. We see the example of this observance from the very beginning of the Holy Scriptures to the end thereof (Genesis 2:1-3; Isaiah 35:10; 56:1-7; 58:13-14; Ezekiel 22:8,26). We see that the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath was used as a test of obedience to The LORD (Yahweh)’s laws in Exodus 16 before the Ten Commandments were given in Exodus 20. We believe that the laws of The LORD (Yahweh) are written in our hearts and therefore the New Covenant is that the laws of The LORD (Yahweh) will be taken from stone and placed in our hearts UNCHANGED (Hebrews 8:6-13; 10:1,15-17). We see the proof of the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath being observed by Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) , the apostles and the NEW TESTAMENT APOSTOLIC ASSEMBLY in the books of Luke and Acts (Luke 4:16,31; Acts 13:14,42-44; 16:13; 17:1-4; 18:1-4; Hebrews 4:1-11). The seventh-day Sabbath is NOT the Sabbath of the Jews! It is the Sabbath of The LORD (Yahweh) our God (Elohim) [God] (Exodus 20:8-11; 31:12-13, 17; Leviticus 23:1,3; 56:1-4; 58:13-14; 66:22-23; Ezekiel 20:11-24). The seventh-day Sabbath is a “sign” between The LORD (Yahweh) and His people (sign – Hebrew word, “ ’owth ” meaning, a signal, as a flag, beacon, monument, evidence, mark, sign, token. [Strong’s Hebrew Dictionary #226]). The seventh-day Sabbath is a PERPETUAL covenant! This means that it is everlasting, eternal, without end!! (Exodus 31:12-13,17). The seventh-day Sabbath is a “shadow” of things to come. The Greek word, “shadow” is “skia” (Strong’s Greek Dictionary #4639) and means, shade or shadow literally or figuratively darkness of error or an adumbration.” An adumbration is that which gives a sketchy outline of something. It is a foreshadow of something or it discloses something partially. The seventh-day Sabbath foreshadows the infilling of the Holy Spirit which causes us to rest in The LORD (Yahweh) (Isaiah 28:10-12; Hebrews 10:1). The seventh-day Sabbath also represents the rest that the earth will enjoy during the 1000 year reign of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) . This example is shown in that The LORD (Yahweh) caused Israel to go into captivity because they would not keep His Sabbath during which time the land rested (Jeremiah 17:21-27; Ezekiel 36:15-21). This lets us know that the Sabbaths’ observance is extremely important to The LORD (Yahweh)! The earth will enjoy rest from sin during the 1000 year reign of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) upon the earth. “From one new moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another and shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith The LORD (Yahweh).” (Isaiah 66:22-23). We know that the seventh-day Sabbath was changed by the Roman Catholic Church by their own admission thus fulfilling the prophecy of Daniel the prophet. The church-world followed them into this apostasy (Daniel 7:25). (Ask for the article “Who’s Day Is It Anyway?” for details.
XXIV. The LORD (Yahweh)’s Health Covenant - We believe earnestly that the covenant established with Israel regarding their bodies and that which is digested as food is yet in effect. Unclean food and beverages as listed in the Holy Scriptures should be avoided as so saith the Word of the Almighty. This instruction was carried over into the New Testament and made clear by the vision of Peter that those foods deemed as unclean in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14 are yet unclean. Peter clearly stated that this vision was used to show him that he should not call any MAN unclean. The vision had nothing to do with freeing man to eat whatever he desired (Acts 10:28). In regards to blessing that which is unclean according to the Holy Scriptures and it becomes clean and qualified to eat is not the teaching of the Scriptures. “That which was created to be received” is the statement and in order to resolve what was created to be received with thanksgiving is found in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14. We must realize that the Word of The LORD (Yahweh) has “sanctified” [set aside as holy, clean] that which The LORD (Yahweh) said is suitable for food (1 Timothy 4:1,5). Those who eat unclean food which has been deemed as abominable by the Word of The LORD (Yahweh) will be placed in the lake of fire (Isaiah 66:15-17, 4; Revelation 21:8). Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit and when you put that which is unclean therein it contaminates the temple and it becomes unclean fit for destruction (1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 6:19-20). It is our responsibility to cleanse the temple from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit if we want to be the sons and daughters of the Almighty (2 Corinthians 6:17-7:1).
XXV. The New Moons and Feasts of The LORD (Yahweh) - We believe that the scriptural months are determined by the visible new moons (the Crescent moon). We see from the Scriptures that worship and a feast was held and all fellowshipped together there in bringing an offering unto The LORD (Yahweh). While the animal sacrifices were abolished by Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) at Calvary on the Tree, we can clearly see that in the New Heavens and New Earth that the New Moons and Feasts will be observed by the saints. This gives us to know that the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath, new moons and feasts of The LORD (Yahweh) are yet in effect and have not been abolished (Numbers 28:11; Deuteronomy 16:1; 1 Samuel 20:5,18; 1 Chronicles 23:30-31; 2 Chronicles 2:4; 31:3; 2 Kings 4:23; Ezra 3:5; Nehemiah 10:33; Isaiah 2:3; 66:23; Ezekiel 46:3). The Scriptures teach us that Almighty The LORD (Yahweh) did not originally attach the animal sacrifices to the feast days. The animal sacrifices were ADDED because of the continual sins of the people to cover their sins until Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) would come (Jeremiah 7:22-24; Hebrews 10:1-6). The observance of the New Moon is NOT a Sabbath day nor a feast day. In regards to the Feast of The LORD (Yahweh), we observe the Annual Feasts in their time frame according to the Holy Scriptures. “These are the feasts of The LORD (Yahweh)…”, Passover [the preparation day before the High Sabbath] (Exodus 12:3-14; Mark 15:42; Luke 23:54; John 19:31,42; Exodus 12:18; 34:25; 1 Corinthians 5:7-8), Unleavened Bread [1st and 7th day thereof is a High Sabbath](Leviticus 23:6; 1 Corinthians 5:6-8; Matthew 16:12; Mark 8:4-15; Luke 12:1; Exodus 12:15-20; Numbers 28:17-25; Acts 20:6-7), the Day of Pentecost [Feast of Weeks] (Joshua 5:10-12; Leviticus 23:9-21; Acts 2:1-4; 20:16; 1 Corinthians 16:8), Feast of Trumpets (Leviticus 23:24-25; Numbers 10:1-10; 29:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:16), the Fast of the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 23:27-32; Acts 27:9), the Feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23:34-39; John 7:1-39; Zechariah 14:16-21) and the Last Great Day (John 7:39). These feasts are the feasts of The LORD (Yahweh) not the feasts of the Jews, therefore, these are NOT apart of the Law of Moses (Leviticus 23:1-2,4).
XXVI. The Sacred Name - We believe that our Heavenly Father, the Creator of all things has a name by which He desires His people to know Him by, use and proclaim. After prayerful and careful consideration of the truths of the Holy Scriptures comparing that which is inspired by the Almighty The LORD (Yahweh) we have come to the following conclusions based upon what is found in the Hebrew and Greek Scriptures. While we hold these tenets, it is not incumbent upon the organization with which we affiliate and we are grateful for the freedom to use that for which we are convinced of. We note that the commandment says, “You shall not take the name of The LORD (Yahweh) [YHWH] your God (Elohim) [God] in vain.” (Exodus 20:7). This denotes clearly that our Creator has a name and we must be very careful in our use thereof. In every place where the words “The LORD (Yahweh)” are printed it indicates that the original name YHWH was there. Because the translators could not translate these four consonants they placed the common term LORD in its place. Therefore, we have come to use the common title LORD instead of the true Hebrew name of our God (Elohim). These four consonants [YHWH] are called the “tetragrammaton” which means “four letter name”. This Tetragrammaton is the true Hebrew name. Josephus, a noted Jewish historian states, “The Tetragrammaton appeared in the High Priest’s miter [hat] and consisted of four vowels.” (Wars, Book V, Chapter V,7). Scholars know His name and know that the name “Jehovah” is NOT His name. The name “Jehovah” is an erroneous spelling of the name and the correct spelling is “THE LORD (YAHWEH)”. The person credited with popularizing the name Jehovah is Peter Galatin, professor to Pope Leo the 10th. The Oxford English Dictionary puts the date of Gallatin’s use of Jehovah at 1516 in De Arcanis Catholic Veritatis. Let us notice what Biblical and Secular Scholars say about the Sacred Name.
Moffatt’s Bibles, page xx of the introduction says, “Strictly speaking, this ought to be rendered ‘The LORD (Yahweh)’ which is familiar to modern readers in the erroneous form of ‘Jehovah.’ ”
Encyclopedia Americana – “The form of J was unknown in any alphabet until the 14th century.”
The Revised Standard Version, page v of the preface.
The Complete Bible, Dr. J. M. Powis Smith, writes in reference to the Sacred Name: “Anyone, therefore who desires to retain the flavor of the original text has but to read ‘THE LORD (YAHWEH)’ wherever he sees Lord…”
Dr. George Lamsa, a renowned Bible translator when asked to explain the Tetragrammaton once stated, “That is THE LORD (YAHWEH). It is the original name. All others were added later.”
New Century Dictionary – “Jehovah – the common European rendering of Heb. JHVH (or YHWH), representing, without vowels, Heb. Jahweh (or The LORD (Yahweh)), a divine name… regarded by the Jews as too sacred for utterance and hence replaced in the reading of the Scriptures by Adonai or The LORD (Yahweh); the form Jehovah being due to a mispronunciation of Heb. JHVH with the vowels of the associated Heb. Adonai,… being the Christian rendering the ‘ineffable [meaning, unutterable] name,’ JHVH in the Hebrew Scriptures.”
A History of Christianity , Kenneth Scott Latourette (page 11) – “Israel regarded their God, The LORD (Yahweh), a name mistakenly put into the English as Jehovah, as the God of the universe, the maker and ruler of heaven and earth. Other peoples had their “gods”, but The LORD (Yahweh) was regarded by these monotheists as far more powerful than they.”
The Encyclopedia Britannica (Micropedia, Vol. 10) – “The LORD (Yahweh) – the personal name of the God of the Israelites … The Masoretes, Jewish biblical scholars of the Middle Ages, replaced the vowel signs that had appeared above or beneath the consonants of YHWH with the vowel signs of Adonai or of God. Thus, the artificial name Jehovah (YeHoWaH) came into being. Although Christian scholars after the Renaissance and Reformation periods used the term Jehovah for YHWH, in the 19th and 20th centuries Biblical scholars again began to use the form The LORD (Yahweh). Early Christian writers, such as Clement of Alexandria in the 2nd century, had used the form The LORD (Yahweh), thus this pronunciation of the Tetragrammaton was never really lost. Greek transcriptions also indicated that Yhwh should be pronounced The LORD (Yahweh).”
Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological, and Ecclesiastical Literature – Volume 3, Page 901 – “Jehovah – the imperfect of Jahve (Yahwe or Jehovah or Jahwe (The LORD (Yahweh)), He is self existing.”
Jewish Encyclopedia – Volume 9, Page 162, - “Rabbinical Literature – The name The LORD (Yahweh) is considered the Name proper.”
Seventh-Day Adventist Bible Commentary – Volume 1, Page 172 – “And the name above all others that was looked upon as the name, the personal name of God, was THE LORD (YAHWEH).”
The International Bible Encyclopedia of the King James Version – “Jehovah – It is believed that the correct pronunciation of this word is ‘The LORD (Yahweh)’. ”
New Standard Bible Dictionary – “Jehovah – properly The LORD (Yahweh)… the form ‘Jehovah’ is impossible, according to the strict principles of Hebrew vocalization.”
Davis Dictionary of the Bible – “Jehovah – The Tetragrammaton is generally believed to have been pronounced The LORD (Yahweh).”
Jewish Quarterly Review – April 1969, Dr. Zolomon Zeitlin, - “In the biblical period The LORD (Yahweh) was a proper name, the God of Israel, an ethnic God.”
New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology – Volume 2 – “In the Old Testament the words El, Eloah, and God, from related roots, are generic designations of The LORD (Yahweh). Alongside and alternating with them stands the individual personal name The LORD (Yahweh).”
Review and Herald – December 16, 1971 – “The LORD (Yahweh) is the name that identifies the God of the Hebrews. Where the Philistines worshiped Dagon, the Egyptians, Amon, and the Ammonites, Milcom, the Hebrews worshiped THE LORD (YAHWEH). The title ‘Lord’ is applied to false deities in the Scriptures as well as to The LORD (Yahweh), hence is not a term by which one can be distinguished from the others. When the voice said, ‘I am The LORD (Yahweh),’ there was no doubt in any listener’s mind as to the identity of the speaker. He was the The LORD (Yahweh) of the Hebrews. So far as is known, no other peoples called their The LORD (Yahweh) by this name.”
Jehovah’s Witnesses – “Let Your Name Be Sanctified” – Pages 16, 20 – The LORD (Yahweh)… is admittedly superior to Jehovah. ‘The wrong spelling Jehovah occurs since about 1100…” [The LORD (Yahweh) ]… ‘the correct and original pronunciation.’
Jehovah’s Witnesses - New World Translation of the Christian Greek Scriptures – Published by Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, Page 25 of the foreword, - “While inclining to view the pronunciation “The LORD (Yahweh)” as the more correct way, we have retained the form ‘Jehovah’ because of people’s familiarity wit it since the 14th century.”
Rotherham – “The pronunciation Jehovah was unknown until…” [about] “…1520, when it was introduced by Galatinus; but was contested by Le Mercier, J. Drusius, and L. Capellus, as against grammatical and historical propriety.”
The New Schaff-Herzog Religious Encyclopedia – “The LORD (Yahweh)” – The pronunciation of the Hebrew Tetragrammaton [YHWH] should no longer be based primarily on traditions preserved in late patristic sources.”
What is His Son’s Name? - Hubert M. Skinner writes in his book, Story of the Letters and Figures, pages 122-123, “In some way, various modern peoples who received the J from the Romans have lost the original sound, and have substituted something very different. We retain the former sound in our word ‘hallelujah’, but we generally give the letter the disagreeable soft sound of G. Yod …” [ a Hebrew letter] “…is the initial on the name Jesus. It is unfortunate that a name so dear and so sacred is pronounced in a manner so different from that of the original word. The latter sounded very much as if it were Ya’shoo-ah, and was agreeable to the ear. Our sounds of J and hard S are the most disagreeable in our language, and they are both found in our pronunciation of this short name, although they did not exist in its original.
The name “Jesus” has no meaning in the Hebrew language. When the angel came to Mary [Mariam] she was told that her child would SAVE His people from their sins (Matthew 1:21). The name “Jesus” is derived from the Greek word, Iesous. We have already shown that the letter “J” was not in anyone’s language until approximately 1565… (Encyclopedia Americana – “The form of J was unknown in any alphabet until the 14th century.”), therefore there was NO J SOUND. The name could not have been pronounced JESUS!!
The Hebrew name is derived from the name “Joshua” originally written as “Hoshua” or “Oshea”, meaning salvation or deliverance. Moses added the poetic form of the Sacred name for The LORD (Yahweh) (Yah) to his name making it “Yah-Oshua”, meaning, Yah-salvation (Numbers 13:16). This Hebrew General, Yah-Oshua, was a type of our Savior. His name, [Yah-Oshua] is found in the New Testament and applied to the Savior in Acts 7:45 and Hebrew 4:8. The name ‘Joshua’, or “Yah-Oshua” as it is in the Hebrew, was substituted for the pagan name JESUS.
The name “Yah-Oshua” means “Yah-Salvation” or in other words, The LORD (Yahweh) [is] salvation. This fulfils the Scriptures “Look unto me [The LORD (Yahweh)] and be ye saved… I even I am the savior and besides me there is no other… whosoever shall call upon the name of THE LORD (YAHWEH) shall be saved…” (Isaiah 43:10-1; 45:22; Joel 2:32). Our Savior said these words, “I am come IN MY FATHER’S NAME and ye receive me not…” (John 5:43). The Son carries the Father’s name! As the Angel of The LORD (Yahweh), Yah-Shua carries the Father’s name this fulfills Bible prophecy.
When the Israelites came out of Babylonian captivity, the “o” sound was dropped and the name was shortened to YAH-SHUA, still meaning, “The LORD (Yahweh)-Salvation”.
There is and has been a danger that the people of the Almighty will FORGET HIS NAME. The Holy Scriptures speak of the name being FORGOTTON and a SUBSTITUTE name being accepted in its place. The LORD (Yahweh) says that it was the priests and prophets that cause the people to forget His name for Baal (Jeremiah 23:26-27). The LORD (Yahweh) commanded the people not to call Him by the names of Baal or Baali (Hosea 2:16-17). Any good Reference Bible will show the meaning of the name Baal or Baali to be “lord, master, Gad [God]” (compare Isaiah 65:11).
The Scriptures are too numerous to quote here in this treatise. There is only one name by which we may be saved and it is NOT JESUS. The name JESUS CHRIST (YAHSHUA MESSIAH) is the only name by which we may be saved. “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12). When Paul was on the road to Damascus to persecute the Apostolic Assembly and was knocked from his beast to the ground – he asked to know who it was that was able to do this and the answer came back to him in the HEBREW TONGUE! Paul was a HEBREW and spoke HEBREW fluently – it was his native tongue (Acts 9:1-14; 22:1-3). Seeing that there was NO J in anyone’s language at that time the answer would not have been – “I am JESUS” as the King James Version of the Bible prints it. Considering the foregoing facts the answer would have been “I AM YAHSHUA.” (Acts 26:13-16). Paul’s commission was to take the Savior’s name to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15-16). He would not have taken a Greek name he would have taken the HEBREW NAME of HIS THE LORD (YAHWEH) [The LORD (Yahweh)] and of the Son of The LORD (Yahweh) [Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) ]!
Compare these Scriptures and see the importance of the Sacred name (Micah 6:9; Ezekiel 39:7; Zachariah 14:9; Joel 2:32; Exodus 3:15; 20:7; Malachi 3:16; Psalms 68:4; 83:14; Hosea 12:5; Isaiah 42:8; 52:6; Exodus 23:13; Joshua 23:7; Psalms 16:4; 44:20-21; 79:6; Proverbs 18:10; Malachi 3:16-18; Psalms 91:14-16; Isaiah 58:9; Zechariah 13:9; Malachi 2:1-2; Ezekiel 34:1-6; Ephesians 3:14-15; Leviticus 22:32-33; Jeremiah 16:21).
We must remember that “Lord” or “God” are NOT proper names. Deuteronomy 12:30 makes that very clear. There are many god’s – when we say we believe in “God” the question arises, “Which one?” “For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,)” (1 Corinthians 8:5). We are to distinguish which “god” we serve. Without a NAME there is no telling which “god” will respond. When we use only a title any one using that title can respond. The LORD (Yahweh) only has ONE NAME (Zechariah 14:9). His name has several COMPOUND NAMES (that is, The LORD (Yahweh)-Roah, The LORD (Yahweh)-Raphi, The LORD (Yahweh)-Tsidkenu, etc.) These are descriptive titles that are added to HIS NAME to describe His many attributes but HIS NAME IS THE LORD (YAHWEH)!
Our Savior, Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) (Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) ) revealed His Father’s name to the men that followed Him (John 17:6,11). Our eternal life hinges upon KNOWING AND REVERENCING the only true God (The LORD (Yahweh)) and Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) (Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) ) (John 17:3). If we do not KNOW HIM and BELIEVE ON HIS NAME then we will not be saved! (John 1:12; Acts 2:21; Isaiah 57:15).
Seeing that all have not come to this understanding, we strive to patiently and lovingly teach with compassion and assist others in arriving at this understanding. It is therefore requested that in the public reading of the Scriptures, Prayer and or instruction of the Word of the Almighty that we earnestly include the use of the Sacred Name until all come into the unity of the faith.
Being that as it is, we must remember that the name THE LORD (YAHWEH) and JESUS CHRIST (YAHSHUA MESSIAH) are SACRED NAMES and MUST NOT be simply thrown around among people who do not use it nor know it.
XXVII. The Observance of Man-Made Holidays - We hold that the observance of the holidays Christmas, Easter, Halloween and Valentine’s Day are all of pagan origin and should not be observed by those who are of the true Apostolic Assembly. We also hold that celebrating the observance of New Year’s Day and any holiday honoring a person who has died should be avoided. Since there be those who are off from work for these holidays we suggest that you use this time for family and personal spiritual concerns. The usage of Christmas trees and ornaments are to be avoided as they are considered idolatry (Jeremiah 10:1-10). According to the New Schaff-Herzog Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge, under the article “Christmas” we read, “There is no historical evidence that our Savior’s birthday was celebrated during the apostolic or early post-apostolic times.” The American Book of Days by George W. Douglas, page 658, states, “The day was not one of the early feasts of the [original apostolic assembly].” The Cyclopedia of Biblical Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature corroborates in the article, “Christmas”, page 276, “The fathers of the first three centuries do not speak of any special observance of the nativity. No corresponding festival was presented by the Old Testament… the day and month of the birth of [Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) ] are nowhere stated in the Gospel history, and cannot be certainly determined.” (For more information ask for the article, “The Untold Story of Christmas”.
In regards to the observance of Easter, the prophecy of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) designated that He would be in the heart of the earth, [the grave] “three days and three nights” and Daniel the prophet stated that “in the midst of the week shall the Messiah be cut off…” Daniel 9:27; Matthew 12:40). The midst [middle] of the week is Wednesday not Friday! It is impossible to have our Messiah in the grave three days AND three nights with a impalement on Friday and a resurrection on Sunday morning (that is two nights [Friday and Saturday] and one and a half days [Friday afternoon and Saturday all day]! In order for the prophecy to be correct and our Messiah be the true Messiah it had to be three days [Wednesday, Thursday and Friday] AND three nights [Wednesday, Thursday and Friday] and “…at the END of the Sabbath…” Jesus [Yahshua] had risen as He said (Matthew 28:1). The END of the Sabbath is sunset Saturday – not early Sunday morning! We must remember that the Biblical day begins at SUNSET (Genesis 1:5,8,13,19,23,31; Leviticus 23:32). It is clear from the Scriptures that there were two Sabbaths that week, the High Sabbath of Unleavened Bread and the Seventh-Day Sabbath (Leviticus 23:5-8; Matthew 27:62; Matthew 28:1; Luke 23:54).
According to Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary, page 317, “Easter was originally a pagan festival honoring Eostre, a German Goddess of light and spring…. As early as the eighth century the name was used to designate the annual Christian celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Yahshua Messiah) .” The Two Babylon’s, by Alexander Hislop, says, Easter is “Astarte, one of the titles of Beltis, the Queen of Heaven.” Beltis is another name for Ishtar. Ishtar was a Goddess of Babylon. The Scriptures teach us not to honor the festivals of the “Queen of Heaven” (Jeremiah 7:17-20; 44:16-23). These practices were in consort with the worship of the Assyrian God, Tammuz. The Encyclopedia Britannica, Volume 21, pages 776-777, says, “A Sumerian, Babylonian and Assyrian, god who died and rose annually with dying and reviving vegetation of the hot Mesopotamian summer, and the rapid renewal of its life at the season of the spring rains…” Ezekiel 8:5-13 condemns the SUNRISE SERVICES which were held in honor of this pagan The LORD (Yahweh). This is sun worship in it’s clearest form as was transferred by the apostates to combine the worship of paganism with the true apostolic faith. The origin of the Easter egg is really interesting, “An egg of wondrous size is said to have fallen from heaven into the river Euphrates. The fishes rolled it to the bank where the doves having settled upon it, and hatched it, out came… Astarte…” (The Two Babylons, Page 109).
In regard to the forty days of LENT, “The forty days’ abstinence of Lent was directly borrowed from the worshippers of the Babylonian Goddess. Such a Lent of forty days, in the spring of the year is stilled observed by the Yezidis or Pagan Devil-worshippers of Koordistan, who have inherited it from their early masters, the Babylonians… Such a lent of forty days was observed in Egypt… held expressly in commemoration of Adonis or Osiris, the great mediatorial The LORD (Yahweh)…” (The Two Babylons, Pages 104-105). The Two Babylons, page 105, continues, “To conciliate the Pagans to nominal Christianity, Rome, pursuing its usual policy, took measures to get the Christian and Pagan festival amalgamated, and, by a complicated but skillful adjustment of the calendar, it was found no difficult matter, in general, to get Paganism and Christianity – now far sunk in idolatry – in this as in so many other things, to shake hands…”
Matthew 12:40 offers a complex problem to the Good Friday crucifixion and Easter Sunday morning resurrection. It is clear that the Scriptures teach and three day and three night burial.
In Acts 12:4 the word EASTER is translated by Bible translators. The word used here is the Greek word PASCHA which means PASSOVER – NOT EASTER!!!
For more details, please ask for the books, “The Counterfeit Called Easter” and “He Arose…But When”, also ask for the book, “Halloween” and articles on “Valentine’s Day”.
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