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The New Jerusalem

In the last fifty years or so, all of us in this modern day society have heard many numerous news reports on the "earthly" city of Jerusalem.  The vast majority of these news items were of dire and troublesome implications, and it seems there is never ending talk of "peace talks" that are supposed to end all this conflict and strife.  The term "new Jerusalem" is found only twice in the Bible, however this term is directly involved with many theological truths, as this booklet will show.  This city could be called the city where very important and far reaching events of past history have been written and recorded.  Jerusalem is also the one city where political decisions in future history will determine the social structure of planet earth in the coming millennium.  This booklet will address from a biblical perspective why Jerusalem is chosen to be the one city that will attempt the rule the world in the coming years ahead of us.  This city is also chosen to be the exact location where the overthrow of this present evil world will take place, and is also the exact location where a coming government of God will usher in a new world, as the Bible explains.
    
Our controlled news media makes mention of Jerusalem almost on daily basis, and this city is the most talked about city in this present day political world.  Indeed, it would be fair to say that this city has been treated and looked on as the "hot spot" of all the earth throughout all of history!  It seems that the controlled news media along with our modern day clergy are not able to answer as to why there is so much strife, confusion, and conflict in the city of Jerusalem and this area known as the nation of "Israel".  Our controlled news media only report the symptoms brought on by a major deception, which is the cause of the strife and unrest in this very small area of the world.
    
Why has this city and this area of the world been regarded of such profound importance throughout the history of civilization?  Why has the city of Jerusalem attracted so much attention, and has been at the root cause of many political struggles, not only in our modern times, but also in biblical times?  It is not that Jerusalem is a beautiful city, or is even considered as a large city.  That is, if we use these standards to determine why this city has profoundly captured the attention of the political world.  Population wise, it certainly is a very small city compared to other cities around the world.  As a matter of fact, Jerusalem appears to be an "old and ugly" city according to the video clips that are shown almost daily by our controlled news media.  By viewing the buildings and landscape of this city, one would normally think that by our standards there should be a crash program of a major overhaul and "face lifting" of this city!  These statements no doubt will offend certain people. 

The point I want to make is this; why all this political strife and war over this piece of real estate?  It is very obvious that the value of this city is not based on it's "beauty" or on it's size, commerce, or trade.  Therefore we must look elsewhere to find the answers as to why the world's "news spotlight" is focused on the "earthly" city of Jerusalem.  It could be said that this city is a property and a piece of real estate that is hanging on the balance of proper ownership!  This understanding will therefore explain why there is so much strife and conflict in this particular area of the world.  Who or what people have the property rights to the city of Jerusalem, and have always had these property rights?  It is very strange indeed that this particular question is never discussed or properly addressed and explained by our "learned" modern day clergy, and also by our "informed" controlled news media.
    
This booklet will attempt to explain why the city of Jerusalem is the one city that has been in the political news arena, not only for this present society; but for all of history!  The Bible makes mention of this particular city over seven hundred sixty times!  Any student of the Bible should be aware that the "earthly" city of Jerusalem is the one city that is biblically chosen to represent a theological truth of which most Bible prophecy is determined to find it's fulfillment.  This truth will become very obvious as we continue in this study.  Most Bible prophecy is primarily focused on future events that revolve around what is destined to happen to Jerusalem, and therefore it could be said that this city is at the center of most Bible prophecy, as we shall see.

Earthly Jerusalem

I used the term "earthly" Jerusalem simply because the Bible also speaks of a "heavenly" Jerusalem, as this booklet will explain.  Therefore throughout this study please keep in mind of the fact that the Bible speaks of two cities of Jerusalem.  One city is on the earth, and the other city is in heaven; which is where God dwells and could therefore be called God's home.  The holy and heavenly city of Jerusalem will be addressed later.  I want to state in the beginning of this study that "earthly" Jerusalem played a major role in representing the heavenly city where God dwells and is the location of God's throne.  This booklet will show from the Bible that this heavenly city is a very real city, and cannot be interpreted to mean just something "spiritual" or have an uncertain meaning.  It is very important to understand that it was God's intention to also dwell (however only temporarily and as a pattern) with his people, not only during the time of Moses, but also during the time of what is known as the priesthood of Melchizedek. 

A very important man called Abraham was blessed under this priesthood, as will be explained soon.  There are many scriptures that plainly state that God actually spoke with holy men of the Bible.  It could be said that a priesthood is simply a means by which a holy and a righteous God is able to be in touch with his people that have fallen into sin, or a means to communicate with his people.  The Bible explains that the "earthly" city of Jerusalem was chosen as the exact location for this type of priesthood to function.  However as will be explained soon, this city was at first not called by the name of "Jerusalem".  The first occurrence in the Bible where the city of Jerusalem is mentioned is found in Joshua 10:1.

Joshua 10:1 Now it came to pass, when Adonizedek king of Jerusalem had heard how Joshua had taken Ai, and had utterly destroyed it; as he had done to Jericho and her king, so he had done to Ai and her king; and how the inhabitants of Gibeon had made peace with Israel, and were among them; (KJV)

It is interesting to note that this Adonizedek was the king of Jerusalem.  Please notice that Adonizedek was a Canaanite king slain by Joshua, as it shows in Strong's Lexicon no. 0139.

0139 'Adoniy-Tsedeq {ad-o''-nee-tseh'-dek}from 0113 and 06664;; n pr m  AV - Adonizedek 2; 2 Adoni-zedek = "my lord is righteous"  1) Canaanite king slain by Joshua

This very interesting truth reveals that the city of Jerusalem was occupied by a people known as the "Canaanites" during the time of Joshua.  However it is important that we trace and identify this city long before the time of Moses and Joshua.  God called and spoke to Abraham to get out from his own country, and he was told to get away from his kindred and his father's house.  Abraham became very familiar with a certain city, and also was blessed by a certain great man that was called the king of that city.  The land that God commanded Abraham to go to was occupied by the Canaanites.  The Canaanite was "then in the land", which was before Abraham arrived there.  See Gen. 12:1, 6.

Genesis 12:1 Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: (KJV)
Genesis 12:6 And Abram passed through the land unto the place of Sichem, unto the plain of Moreh. And the Canaanite [was] then in the land. (KJV)

Who were these "Canaanites"?  These people obviously descended from Canaan, which was the son of Ham.  However it is also very obvious that these people can be traced back to "Cain" in the Garden of Eden.  The reason these people can be traced back to Cain is simply because Cain was cursed when he murdered Abel, and Canaan (Noah's grandson) was also cursed.  This is very important to understand!  See Gen. 4:9-11 and 9:25.

Genesis 4:9-11 And the LORD said unto Cain, Where [is] Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: [Am] I my brother's keeper? 10 And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the ground. 11 And now [art] thou cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother's blood from thy hand; (KJV)
Genesis 9:25 And he said, Cursed [be] Canaan; a servant of servants shall he be unto his brethren. (KJV)

According to these scriptures the "Canaanites" are a cursed people.  What were they doing in the land that Abraham was promised to inherit?  It is very important to understand that God started his plan of redemption with Abraham, and it is very obvious that Abraham needed to be in a certain land that he was to inherit.  My booklets entitled, "Abraham's Covenant and Baptism" and "Lost Israel and Gentiles" explains the covenant that God made with Abraham that promises a glorious inheritance that is waiting for the rightful inheritors through Jesus Christ.  I believe the city of Jerusalem at the time of Abraham was not called by the name of "Jerusalem".  It was an area (or city) known as "Salem".  Please notice in Gen. 14:18 and Heb. 7:1-2 that a certain king of "Salem" known as Melchizedek, was a priest of the most high God that blessed Abraham.  This man was considered to be a very great man, or a man that was considered of great importance in the known world of Abraham's day.  This is explained in Heb. 7:4.

Genesis 14:18 And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the most high God. (KJV)
Hebrews 7:1-2 For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; 2 To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; (KJV)
Hebrews 7:4 Now consider how great this man [was], unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils. (KJV)

Keep in mind that this Melchizedek first carried the title of "King of righteousness", and later was also called the King of Salem, which biblically means "King of peace"; as was explained in Heb. 7:2.  The word "Salem" is no. 08004 in Strong's Lexicon.  As we can see by this meaning, "Salem" could be called the city of peace, and it can be said that this is the same city that later was called Jerusalem.

08004 Shalem {shaw-lame'}the same as 08003;; n pr loc AV - Salem 2, Shalem 1; 3 Salem = "peace"
1) the place of which Melchizedek was king 1a) most Jewish commentators affirm that it is the same as Jerusalem

Who was Melchizedek?  I do not believe it was Jesus Christ as some of today assume that he was.  This priesthood is however an endless priesthood that is not dependent on the priests inheriting this priesthood by descending from "fathers and mothers" of earthly descent.  Read Heb. 7:3.

Hebrews 7:3 Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually. (KJV)

This priesthood is a continuing priesthood made like unto the Son of God, and was therefore not dependent on the birth (beginning of days) or the death (end of life) of priests to inherit.  Notice that it is worded "made like unto the Son of God"; which means it will always be eternally occupied and will accomplish what the Son of God also intended.  Therefore I believe it is Jesus Christ that presently occupies the office of this continuing priesthood.  This priesthood is a sworn priesthood, and therefore does not come by inheritance of earthly descent as we have seen in Heb. 7:3.  Jesus Christ was made a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek, therefore was not the Melchizedek of Abraham's day.  See Heb. 7:16-17 and Psl. 110:4

Hebrews 7:16-17 Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life. 17 For he testifieth, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. (KJV)
Psalm 110:4 The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. (KJV)

These scriptures in the book of Hebrews are comparing the Levitical priesthood (which was made after the law of a carnal commandment) with the priesthood of Melchizedek.  My booklet entitled "What Is Man?" also addresses this very interesting subject known as the Melchizedek priesthood. A very important clue that identifies who was to be the future king of "Salem" is found in Gen. 9:26.  Keep in mind, Noah made this statement long before the city of Salem was built.

Genesis 9:26 And he said, Blessed [be] the LORD God of Shem; and Canaan shall be his servant. (KJV)

This prophetic statement made by Noah is not some idle statement!  It has far reaching implications of the social struggles and wars of past history, as well as future political implications!  I believe it was Shem that was Melchizedek, because it was the Lord God of Shem that was to be blessed; and Canaan was cursed as a servant as we have seen.  Therefore it could very well be that Shem represented the true King of righteousness and the true King of peace, since it was the Lord God of Shem that was to be blessed (through the priesthood of Melchizedek). Therefore I believe Shem was later called the King of Salem and King of peace when the city of Salem was established after the flood.  Read and study Heb. 7:1-2 again.  Please keep in mind these statements are only my theory, since I cannot biblically prove that Shem was Melchizedek.  However according to Gen. 11:10-11 Shem lived to be two years shy of six hundred years, and might very well have outlived Abraham!

Genesis 11:10,11 These [are] the generations of Shem: Shem [was] an hundred years old, and begat Arphaxad two years after the flood:
11 And Shem lived after he begat Arphaxad five hundred years, and begat sons and daughters.(KJV)

If Shem was indeed Melchizedek, it therefore must be assumed that after the flood of Noah's day, Shem and Canaan were chosen to maintain and keep alive the "enmity" (opposition and hatred) between two physical seed lines spoken of in Gen. 3:15.

Genesis 3:15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. (KJV)

Allow me to explain why Shem and Canaan were highly symbolic of what was stated in Gen. 3:15.  God pronounced this "enmity" on the seed of the woman and on the seed of the serpent, and the serpent's head was under the heel of the woman.  The "heel" and the "head" principal is very important to understand!  We know that the woman's heel had not yet bruised the head of Satan (which is the serpent) during the days of the apostle Paul, because of what is stated in Rom. 16:20.

Romans 16:20 And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen. (KJV)

It is however very obvious that this "bruising" also has not yet taken place in this day and age.  We still live in a deceived world, and most important, the Canaanites are in possession of Jerusalem as they were in the days of Joshua; and it certainly is not a city of righteousness and peace!  I will comment on this statement later.  My booklet entitled "The Kingdom of God" addresses the time schedule when this righteousness and peace will be restored, not only in Jerusalem, but over the entire earth!  Shem was of the physical seed of the woman that was destined to bruise the serpent's head through a certain priesthood, and Canaan was of the cursed seed of the serpent which was under the feet the woman.  Canaan was to be a servant of servants for his brethren and also for Shem.  Applying the "heel" and the "head" principal of Noah's statements of Gen. 9:25-26 has therefore the exact meaning and implications of Gen. 3:15!  Please understand this truth!

Genesis 9:25-26 And he said, Cursed [be] Canaan; a servant of servants shall he be unto his brethren. 26 And he said, Blessed [be] the LORD God of Shem; and Canaan shall be his servant. (KJV)

However as biblical history points out, the "Canaanites" seem to be more cunning and wiser than the seed of the woman, and they certainly do not want be servants to the woman's seed.  As a matter of fact, Jesus Christ himself used the term "serpents" which is biblically applied to a certain people that are very wise (therefore are also very deceptive).  See Matt. 10:16

Matthew 10:16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. (KJV)

Through false worship of false Gods, the Canaanites have managed to deceive the seed of the woman throughout most of biblical history.  It is my belief that after Shem died the city of Salem was taken over by the Canaanites, because several centuries later as we have seen in Joshua 10:1, this city was ruled by a Canaanite king.  This is very important!  The city that represented the King of righteousness and peace was now in control of the "serpent's seed" at the time of Joshua, which means the "enmity" of Gen. 3:15 was in force. It is very important to understand that God was going to honor his covenant with Abraham during the rule of the old covenant.  However there was a major problem!  The Canaanites and other evil nations occupied the land that Abraham and Abraham's seed were promised to inherit.  The Israelites made war with the nations around them by the command of God, and captured or drove out the Canaanites and all the "seed of the serpent" nations.  Therefore Jerusalem was now in control of the "seed of the woman".  God commanded the nation of Israel to utterly destroy these wicked nations, and they were not to show them any mercy.  Read Deut. 7:2 and 20:17.

Deuteronomy 7:2 And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, [and] utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them: (KJV)
Deuteronomy 20:17 But thou shalt utterly destroy them; [namely], the Hittites, and the Amorites, the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites; as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee: (KJV)

The word "Jerusalem" is no. 03389 in Strong's lexicon.  This meaning is very similar to the meaning given for "Salem".  However "Jerusalem" has an additional meaning, which is "teaching of peace".

03389 Y@ruwshalaim {yer-oo-shaw-lah'-im}rarely Y@ruwshalayim {yer-oo- shaw-lah'-yim} a dual (in allusion to its two main hills [the true pointing, at least of the former reading, seems to be that of 03390]), probably from (the passive participle of) 03384 and 07999; n pr loc AV - Jerusalem 643;643 Jerusalem = " teaching of peace"
1) the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split

What was once called the city of Salem was now called Jerusalem, and this city during the rule of the old covenant was indeed where the teaching of God's laws of peace were given.  The Aaronic and Levitical priesthood was also instituted with physical temple service to do this teaching and also the lessons of sacrificial laws for the Israelite people.  Keep in mind, it is never biblically recorded that Moses ever saw or set foot in the city of Jerusalem.  However Moses was commanded to set up a sanctuary or a holy place for God to "dwell" among his people, as it shows in Exod. 15:17 and 25:8.

Exodus 15:17 Thou shalt bring them in, and plant them in the mountain of thine inheritance, [in] the place, O LORD, [which] thou hast made for thee to dwell in, [in] the Sanctuary, O Lord, [which] thy hands have established. (KJV)
Exodus 25:8 And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them. (KJV)

God instructed Moses very carefully in the building of the tabernacle of his sanctuary with many physical patterns and types that represented the real or heavenly dwelling of God.  All these physical items of precious medals, wood, cloth, etc. that was used in building this tabernacle represented very important heavenly things, and I might add, in a heavenly city!  This is a very important truth!  Read and understand Heb. 8:5 and 9:21-23.

Hebrews 8:5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, [that] thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. (KJV)
Hebrews 9:21-23 Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. 22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. 23 [It was] therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. (KJV)

It was necessary to maintain the "purity" of things in the heavens, which is why God wanted his sanctuary that he was to dwell in, built according to the exact "blueprint" of things in the heavens.  Moses also purified, by sprinkling with blood, the tabernacle and all the vessels of the ministry that were patterned after divine examples.  This was all explained in Heb. 8:5 and 9:21-23 as we have seen, and is also explained in Acts 7:44.

Acts 7:44 Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen. (KJV)

There are several whole chapters devoted entirely of divine instructions that God gave to Moses in the correct building of his tabernacle and sanctuary.  This tabernacle that was constructed in the wilderness was a portable or moveable tabernacle, as it shows in Strong's Lexicon, no. 4633.  Notice the meaning, "movable temple of God" given for the word "tabernacle" .

4633 skene {skay-nay'} apparently akin to 4632 and 4639; TDNT - 7:368,1040; n f AV - tabernacle 19, habitation 1; 20
1) tent, tabernacle, (made of green boughs, or skins or other materials) 2) of that well known movable temple of God after the pattern of which the temple at Jerusalem was built

This "temple of God" went with the children of Israel in their travels in the wilderness before Jerusalem was established as the place where God was to "dwell".  During the time of Melchizedek and Abraham, the city of Salem was also the location of God's tabernacle (Psl. 76:2), which could be called his temporary dwelling.  However it is interesting that his dwelling was also in a place called "Zion".  It is important to notice in Psl. 76:2 and 135:21 that God's dwelling place is in Zion, however out of Zion God then dwells at Jerusalem.  What are we to understand from this?

Psalm 76:2 In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion. (KJV)
Psalm 135:21 Blessed be the LORD out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD. (KJV)

According to these scriptures, Salem, Zion, and Jerusalem could be called the one and the same city.  However it could also be interpreted as Salem being where God's tabernacle is, and Zion is where God dwells, and when God is out of Zion he dwells at Jerusalem.  Are there three cities mentioned, or are three names given for the same city?  This principle is the same as calling God as the "Father", also as the "Son", and also as the "Holy Spirit".  As we all know, these terms are mentioned many times in the New Testament, and this is why the doctrine of the "three in one" is believed by many.  The Bible declares plainly that the Lord our God is one Lord.  This is very important!  See Deut. 6:4 and Mark 12:29.

Deuteronomy 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God [is] one LORD: (KJV)
Mark 12:29 And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments [is], Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: (KJV)

These three cities are obviously the same city, however it must be understood what they all biblically represent!  Keep in mind, all the "earthly" types and patterns that an all wise God carefully instructed to Moses only pictured and represented the reality (or the real thing, so to speak).  It is therefore very obvious that these three "earthly" cities are also at the same time three "heavenly" cities, which in reality is only one city.  Keep in mind that this truth means that the "earthly" is biblically used to represent the "heavenly".

The Daughter of Zion

The Bible makes mention many times of what is known as "Zion", or terms such as "mount Zion", "daughter of Zion", or "daughter of Jerusalem".  These terms are very closely related to the city of Jerusalem, and what the "earthly" city of Jerusalem spiritually represented.  This is very important!  The term "Zion" is found one hundred fifty two times in the Bible, and it is obvious that it is simply used as another name for Jerusalem.  I cannot explain or understand why God chose to biblically use "Zion" instead of as just "Jerusalem".  I am sure there must be a reason for the biblical use of the word "Zion".  The term "daughter of Zion" is found twenty two times, and the term "daughter of Jerusalem" is found only seven times.  The "daughter of Zion" (or Jerusalem) is very self-explanatory, and there should be no problem in understanding what this term means or implies.  It is self-evident by using spiritual logic that this "daughter of Zion" is the offspring of this certain heavenly city called Zion. 

To take this logic further is to believe that this city, which is biblically called Zion, has brought forth or gave "birth" to the children of God.  Since these offspring and children of God are biblically called "daughter of Zion", it therefore takes on a feminine meaning and implication.  It could therefore be said that "mount Zion" brought forth or gave birth to a "woman".  This truth is very important to understand, and the Bible plainly states that God was married to a people called Israel, and Israel was indeed called God's wife.  This truth is explained in detail in my booklet entitled "Lost Israel and the Gentiles", which also explains that it was Jesus Christ that was married to Israel.  However the Bible also plainly states that Christ had to put away and divorce his wife Israel because of her disobedience to the covenant and the false worship of other gods, which could be called spiritual adultery.  Read and understand Jer. 3:14 and 3:8.

Jeremiah 3:14 Turn, O backsliding children, saith the LORD; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion: (KJV)
Jeremiah 3:8 And I saw, when for all the causes whereby backsliding Israel committed adultery I had put her away, and given her a bill of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah feared not, but went and played the harlot also. (KJV)

This understanding therefore means that the city of Zion, gave birth to a "daughter" that made marriage vows to her "husband" in the form of a covenant at Mount Sinai.  However biblical history repeatedly explains that this "daughter" was unfaithful to her "husband", and as a result of her adulterous ways her "husband" finally had to put her away and divorce her.  This "daughter of Zion" is presently blinded as to who she really is, and therefore she does not know that she is in legal standing to remarry her "husband".  Her "husband" loved her so much that he gave himself in sacrifice to free her from the law that prevented her to become his wife again.  This blinded divorced wife of Jesus Christ is also not aware of her true origin, and therefore she has no way of knowing her real mother that spiritually conceived and gave birth to her.  Jesus Christ many times during his ministry talked about his father, and also instructed us to address our prayers to "Our Father".  See Matt. 6:9, Rom. 1:7, and 1 Cor. 1:3 to know and understand that God is indeed "Our Father".

Matthew 6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. (KJV) Romans 1:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called [to be] saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. (KJV)
1 Corinthians 1:3 Grace [be] unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and [from] the Lord Jesus Christ. (KJV)

This is very important, because this understanding demands that we ask the following question:  Who is "Our Mother"?  The Bible is certainly not silent to explain without any doubt as to who Our Father really is.  The fact is, the Bible is also not silent, and it leaves no doubt as to the identity of Our true Mother!  It is the holy and heavenly city that is biblically called "Mount Zion", and every time the "daughter of Zion" is mentioned, it literally means the birth of the offspring and children of Zion (heavenly Jerusalem).  There is a certain scripture found in the New Testament that clearly proves what I have just stated.  It is found in Gal. 4:26.

Galatians 4:26 But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. (KJV)

The children of God were brought forth and were "born of God" in the heavenly city of Jerusalem, which is literally the mother of us all.  The original origin of the children of God was from the Heavenly city of Jerusalem which is above!  This is strong spiritual meat, and it not for me to even attempt to explain this.  However I simply choose to believe (as we all should) what is plainly stated in Gal. 4:26!  How we mentally do spiritual business with the heavenly city of Jerusalem that is above, is how we honor and respect the real mother of us all.  This is serious!  Notice the term is worded as "mother of us all".  Therefore it cannot mean that this term only applies to those that have accepted Christ and were "born again", as some would have you to believe.  I believe this term applies to all of the Israel family of people before they were born of a physical birth.  To know that we were all "born of God" in the eternal past is to also simply believe John 1:12-13.

John 1:12-13 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God,[even] to them that believe on his name:
13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (KJV)

Please notice that Christ gives the power for us to become (future) the sons of God, which were born (past tense) of God, however not by the sexual, physical conception birth method!  Simply believe these two scriptures and understand this truth!  I believe these scriptures are simply saying that those that receive Christ and believe on his name were previously "born of God", and it is possible for Christ to give them the power to become the sons of God again.  This understanding touches on the doctrine known as "born again" (born from above).  I believe these scriptures are simply saying that those that receive Christ and believe on his name were previously "born of God", and it is possible for Christ to give them the power to become the sons of God.  Keep in mind that the wording of verse 12 is that Christ gives the power for us to become the sons of God.  It does not say that they became the sons of God at the time of their belief and acceptance of Christ.  Therefore these scriptures could be explained to mean that those that receive Christ and believe on his name will sometime during their lives become the sons of God.  This truth is also supported in Rom. 8:14.

Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (KJV)

I choose to believe that the Father looks on his children that are being led by the Spirit of God as legally "born again" the second time of the "mother of us all".  However in reality it could mean that the children of God are only "begotten" (conceived) of the Jerusalem that is above.  The apostle John clearly explains in several scriptures that to be "born of God" also means "begotten of him".  Read and study 1 John 3:9 and 5:1.  The doctrine of the "new birth" is also addressed in my booklets "What is Man?" and "Repentance and Obedience", and should therefore be carefully read.

1 John 3:9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. (KJV)
1 John 5:1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. (KJV)

The Father looks on his children that receive Christ and believe on his name as legally "born of God", which is why they cannot sin (1 John 3:9).  I believe this means they cannot sin willfully out of rebellion, or it could also mean that sins committed in weaknesses are not counted against them.  It is not a situation that they that are "born of God" have no sin, or more correctly stated; those that are "born of God" are deceiving themselves if they think that they are not capable of sinning, as it explains in 1 John 1:8.

1 John 1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (KJV)

In several scriptures in the Old Testament the "daughter of Jerusalem" is mentioned in the same context and also in the same scriptures with the "daughter of Zion" as it shows in Zeph. 3:14.  Notice that a people called Israel are identified with these "two daughters".  There are other scriptures that could be shown that support this truth.

Zephaniah 3:14 Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jerusalem. (KJV)

This is the very reason that the "earthly" Jerusalem was given to a people called Israel, to teach the laws of God and the sacrificial lessons that explained the way of salvation.  The "heavenly" city of Jerusalem gave birth and brought forth the first time the children of God, and the "earthly" city of Jerusalem provided the means for the children of God to be "born again" the second time of their real mother.  Keep in mind, "earthly" Jerusalem was where the righteous laws of God were given through temple service and the priesthood.  These laws with the lessons of sacrificial laws promised "life" to God's children if these laws were obeyed.  This can be proven in many scriptures.  However the old covenant sacrificial laws only pointed toward the true sacrifice for sin that was to come, which was Christ.  This is why the Old Testament righteous saints did not receive their "salvation" when they died.  This truth is explained in detail in my booklet "Life and Death".
    
This is also the reason that the "earthly" Jerusalem brought forth children that were in "bondage", and this city was also at the same time in "bondage" with her children.  However this "bondage" was necessary under the old covenant, because the "earthly" Jerusalem was provided by the Father to show "types" and "patterns" that explained the way for his children to again be born of the Jerusalem that is free from this type of bondage.  As was shown previously, and as the apostle Paul explains, this is the real mother of us all.  Abraham's bondwoman (Agar) represented Mount Sinai which caused this bondage of the children of the Jerusalem that now is.  This is very important!  Read and understand Gal. 4:25-26 and 4:31.

Galatians 4:25, 26 For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. 26 But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. (KJV)
Galatians 4:31 So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free. (KJV)

When Paul wrote this letter to the Galatians, the "Jerusalem which now is" was of course still functioning with physical temple service, which Christ had made the Father's children free from this type of "bondage".  This "bondage" was no longer needed because Christ paid the penalty with his own blood what the sacrificial laws of the "earthly" Jerusalem demanded.  Paul explained this in verse 4:31, which states that we are no longer the children of the "bondwoman" (Agar) which answered to the "earthly" Jerusalem.  Therefore we are now the children of the "woman" who is our true mother that always was free from the bondage of physical temple service.

The City of the Great King

Abraham knew that Melchizedek only represented the true King of righteousness and peace.  He also knew that the city of Salem only represented where the true King dwelled, which is the real and heavenly city of Jerusalem.  Why did Abraham sincerely yearn and look for a certain city whose builder and maker is God?  Abraham was taught by Melchizedek and understood that God prepared a city in a heavenly country that he was to inherit.  Carefully read and believe Heb. 11:9-10 and 11:16.

Hebrews 11:9-10 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as [in] a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: 10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker [is] God. (KJV)
Hebrews 11:16 But now they desire a better [country], that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. (KJV)

To simply explain these verses is as follows:  To Abraham, the land of promise was as a strange country because it represented the "heavenly" country, and he therefore desired this "better" country as also did Abraham's descendants (11:16).  Abraham knew his sojourning in the land of promise was only temporary for him in this life, therefore this is why he, Isaac, and Jacob dwelled in tabernacles (which means a temporary dwelling).  Abraham also knew that this city had real and actual foundations (Heb. 11:10), which was prepared for him, and also Isaac and Jacob.  Abraham, along with Isaac and Jacob, was promised to inherit this heavenly city and country. 

I believe Abraham also knew, and was taught by Melchizedek, that he pre-existed and was born of God in this heavenly city, and he totally believed that this city existed.  This was why he looked for this heavenly city that had actual foundations!  These "foundations" are interpreted for us in the Revelation letter, as we shall see later.  Therefore this city is not something "spiritual" with an uncertain meaning.  Understand this truth!  This city is not of this earth, therefore the way Abraham "looked" for this city simply means that he demonstrated his faith; because he believed in this certain city!  This real faith and belief that Abraham displayed was counted unto him for righteousness, and he was called the Friend of God; as it clearly explains in Rom. 4:3, Gal. 3:6 and James 2:23.

Romans 4:3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. (KJV)
Galatians 3:6 Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. (KJV)
James 2:23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. (KJV)

A loving and all-wise heavenly Father had to test Abraham's faith, therefore Abraham was asked to offer in sacrifice his only begotten son.  This is very important!  As we all know Abraham passed this severe trial and test because he truly believed that God would resurrect his only begotten son Isaac.  See Heb. 11:17-19.

Hebrews 11:17-19 By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten [son], 18 Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: 19 Accounting that God [was] able to raise [him] up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. (KJV)

It was Isaac's seed that was called (verse 18) and promised to inherit this heavenly city and country that Abraham sincerely yearned and looked for.  The Heavenly Father also gave his only begotten son in a very brutal and cruel sacrifice based on the belief and faith of Abraham!  Abraham passed this severe test, therefore this called for the Father to also give his only begotten son in sacrifice so Isaac's seed could inherit this heavenly city and country.  Read John 3:16.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (KJV

This heavenly inheritance is the same faith and belief that founded the early New Testament Church.  This same faith and belief in a heavenly city and country is what modern-day believers in Jesus Christ must also have!  This is very serious!  For those that believe that heavenly Jerusalem is just something "spiritual" with a uncertain hidden meaning, means that their Christian faith is also uncertain.  This uncertain faith can therefore be easily shaken and will mean nothing, and worse, it will also mean nothing to Our Heavenly Father that dwells in this city.  Therefore it is very tragic that the sacrifice of the Father's only begotten son will not be effective to the unbelievers of this very real heavenly city.  Abraham is the most mentioned historical figure in the New Testament!  It is therefore a must that you read my booklet entitled "Abraham's Covenant and Baptism".  Believers are to "seek" and look forward to (as did Abraham) this holy city that will come to this earth.  Notice in Heb. 13:14 that we are to seek a continuing city that is to come.

Hebrews 13:14 For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come. (KJV)

This is the city that will come down out of heaven from God, as will be explained later.  Keep in mind the Father is not limited to time; therefore looks on his children that really believe in this heavenly city as already there!  Believers in this city have already (in spirit) come home to where a company of very many angels also are (Heb. 12:22).

Hebrews 12:22 But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, (KJV)

This is also the city that is prepared for Abraham and the Old Testament saints, as we have seen.  This city is called the "Father's house" which has many mansions in which Christ is preparing "a place" for those that believe in that city, as also did Abraham.  Read and study John 14: 2-3.

John 14:2-3 In my Father's house are many mansions: if [it were] not [so], I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, [there] ye may be also. (KJV)

This statement by Christ proves that the "Father's house" will come to this earth, because Christ will come again to give us the prepared "places" in these mansions and receive us unto himself.  The term "Mount Zion" is found eighteen times in the Bible.  It is also called the "city of the great King", and it is very interesting that it is located on the "sides of the north".  See Psl. 48:2 and Isa. 14:13.

Psalm 48:2 Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, [is] mount Zion, [on] the sides of the north, the city of the great King. (KJV)
Isaiah 14:13 For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north. (KJV)

"Mount  Zion" is also called "the joy of the whole earth".  This will be addressed later.  The prophet Isaiah (14:13) wrote about an angelic being called Satan the devil that wanted to exalt his throne above the "stars of God".  The mount of the congregation is located in the "sides of the north" as also is mount Zion, which is called the city of the great King; as was stated in Psl 48:2.  My booklets entitled "The World Before Adam" and "How Did Jesus Christ Die?" addresses this profound truth of the rebellion of Satan and his angels that caused a "disruption" of a perfect creation, which in turn called for the sacrifice and death of Jesus Christ.  The "The World Before Adam" booklet also addresses the term "stars of God", and also addresses this certain "congregation" that was located in the "sides of the north".
    
What are the "sides of the north", and where is it located?  This explanation is open for speculation, but I want to suggest that I have heard in the past that our scientists have discovered a vast emptiness somewhere in the northern hemisphere of our universe.  I choose to believe that "mount Zion", which is the city of the great King (Psl. 48:2) is in an actual location in the same manner as planets and other heavenly bodies such as stars.  Therefore this assumption (and it is only speculation on my part) of the emptiness of a certain location in the northern skies would be logical to explain the location of the "city of the great King".  To take this assumption further is to believe that the vast area of space surrounding the "city of the great King" is deliberately hidden by God from our powerful telescopes.  Just because the location (or planet) of this heavenly city is not visible to the eyes of our modern telescopes does not mean it doesn't exist!  Therefore it must also be assumed that this would explain this "emptiness" located in the northern skies.  Jesus Christ also made mention of the "city of the great king" as it shows in Matt. 5:34-35.  Heaven is God's throne and the earth is his "footstool".  However God's throne and "headquarters" would logically have to be where God dwells, which is where the real Jerusalem is.  Christ called this the "city of the great King".

Matthew 5:34-35 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: 35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. (KJV)

I believe the real Jerusalem was also the place where the devil took Jesus Christ in spirit to tempt him.  Christ was taken up into (heaven) which is where the holy city is located.  In the same manner, the devil also took Christ in spirit up into a "high mountain" so he could "view" all of the devil's kingdoms in a moment of time (Matt 4:5, Luke 4:5).

Matthew 4:5 Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, (KJV)
Luke 4:5 And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. (KJV)

It is very interesting, and I wonder what the spiritual implications are (if any) that these two verses are located in the fourth chapter and fifth verse in both cases!

The House of God

As was explained previously, during the rule of the old covenant God wanted to temporarily dwell with his people.  The Father gave very important instructions to Moses of a divine plan to legally restore his children in the same standing as Adam was before he sinned.  It was therefore necessary that a sanctuary or a "house of God" be built so that God could dwell and communicate with his people through a temporary priesthood.  This is important!  Moses did build a movable tabernacle for God since the "earthly" city of Jerusalem was occupied by the Canaanites at that time, as we have seen previously.  This tabernacle that went with the Israelites in the wilderness had the "ark of the covenant" that contained all the written laws, and also the stone tablets that the ten commandments were written on.  These were the moral laws written in code and letter form that were to be obeyed along with the sacrificial laws. 

However in reality these laws came from heavenly Jerusalem.  Allow me to explain, and please understand this truth!  These are the same laws (minus the sacrifical laws of course) that must be mentally stamped in the heart and mind of modern-day believers in Christ.  This is so that they can be "conditioned" and their souls "converted" to be born again of the heavenly Jerusalem that is above, which is why and where these laws came from!  Please understand this truth!  It is the heavenly city Jerusalem, which is the mother of us all, that is longing for her children to come back home!  However her children must be spiritually "conditioned" (or converted).  This moral law(s) that came from heavenly Jerusalem is a perfect law that is designed to convert the soul.  See Psl. 19:7.

Psalm 19:7 The law of the LORD [is] perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD [is] sure, making wise the simple. (KJV)

This "conversion" is explained in my booklet entitled "Repentance and Obedience".  As was mentioned before, God needed a "house" built for him so he could commune with his fallen and sinful people, and therefore instruct them (through a temporary priesthood) concerning these very important laws that came from the real Jerusalem.  During King Solomon's rule a "house for God" was finally built, and God spoke to Solomon and reaffirmed his commitment to dwell with his people Israel and to not forsake them, and to also perform his word that he had promised to David.  However they had to execute God's judgments, and keep all the commandments that was given through Moses.  This is all explained in 1 Kings 6:11-14.

1 Kings 6:11-14 And the word of the LORD came to Solomon, saying, 12 [Concerning] this house which thou art in building, if thou wilt walk in my statutes, and execute my judgments, and keep all my commandments to walk in them; then will I perform my word with thee, which I spake unto David thy father: 13 And I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will not forsake my people Israel.
14 So Solomon built the house, and finished it. (KJV)

What did God promise to David?  This promise was that the throne of David would be established forever, and it would not fail that a man of the lineage of David would be on that throne.  This truth is clearly explained in 1 Kings 9:5, 2:45, and Psl. 132:11-12.  Please read and believe these scriptures, because this biblically means that God would provide something that represents the throne of David; and most important, it must be in existence somewhere on this earth today!

1 Kings 9:5 Then I will establish the throne of thy kingdom upon Israel for ever, as I promised to David thy father, saying, There shall not fail thee a man upon the throne of Israel. (KJV)
1 Kings 2:45 And king Solomon [shall be] blessed, and the throne of David shall be established before the LORD for ever. (KJV)
Psalm 132:11-12 The LORD hath sworn [in] truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne. 12 If thy children will keep my covenant and my testimony that I shall teach them, their children shall also sit upon thy throne for evermore. (KJV)

This is the same throne that will be raised up and again be restored in Jerusalem when Jesus Christ will take that throne with power when he returns to this earth.  Please read and simply believe Isa. 9:7.

Isaiah 9:7 Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. (KJV)

This is also the very same throne that the monarchy of the British kings of England were continually crowned on.  A certain stone that is built into a chair in the Westminster Abby represented the throne of Israel and David, which a returned Jesus Christ will restore with power and great glory.  I believe this is the same stone that Jacob laid his head on and declared that this is the place of the "house of God" and the "gate of heaven".  See Gen. 28:17.

Genesis 28:17 And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful [is] this place! this [is] none other but the house of God, and this [is] the gate of heaven. (KJV)

I believe Jacob was at the exact location of Salem when he called this place the "house of God" and the "gate of heaven", which this stone represented!  I believe this is the same stone that went with Israel in their travels in the wilderness, and later was taken by Jeremiah the prophet to Ireland.  This bit of history is recorded as "legend", and it is common knowledge in England that the British monarchy can be traced in a unbroken king-line back to the house of David.  It is indeed very strange that this knowledge is never taught, and I believe is deliberately hidden and withheld from the American people.  This is due to the deceived denominational church system that is determined to teach and uphold the false "God's chosen people" theory and lie.  This lie causes the churches to lose true Israel, and also the throne that Christ will restore. King Solomon knew that the house he built for God was not sufficient and did not really "house" and "contain" the Creator of the universe.  See 1 Kings 8:27.

1 Kings 8:27 But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded? (KJV)

However Solomon also knew that this was the place (earthly Jerusalem) that a holy and righteous God declared; "My name shall be there" (1 Kings 8:29).  Solomon was very humbled to know that this indeed was a very holy place that he had built for God.  Therefore Solomon prayed earnestly on behalf of God's people Israel, and he knew by praying toward this holy place, God would hear from his real dwelling place in heaven and forgive his people.  Carefully read 1 Kings 8:29-30.

1 Kings 8:29-30 That thine eyes may be open toward this house night and day, [even] toward the place of which thou hast said, My name shall be there: that thou mayest hearken unto the prayer which thy servant shall make toward this place. 30: And hearken thou to the supplication of thy servant, and of thy people Israel, when they shall pray toward this place: and hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place: and when thou hearest, forgive. (KJV)

Solomon knew this holy place was not the real dwelling place for God.  He knew that it only represented God's dwelling in heaven, which is why Solomon carefully stated and used the word "toward" four times in 1 Kings 8:29-30.  He did not state "in this place".  "This place" was the exact spot that a holy and righteous heavenly Father could reconcile himself with his fallen sinful children!  Please understand this truth!  I want to state at this time that I believe this is also the exact spot that Adam committed the sin that caused the Father's children to also genetically inherit this sin.  I also believe this is the exact spot that Adam instituted a sacrificial priesthood which would later be called by the name of "Melchizedek" in the city of Salem, as was discussed previously.  Carefully analyze and "read between the lines" of what is stated in Isa. 51:2-3.

Isaiah 51:2-3 Look unto Abraham your father, and unto Sarah [that] bare you: for I called him alone, and blessed him, and increased him. 3: For the LORD shall comfort Zion: he will comfort all her waste places; and he will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the LORD; joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving, and the voice of melody. (KJV)

God called and blessed Abraham alone, and this is why we are to look unto (verse 2) Abraham and Sarah our biological father and mother, because we are to also believe what Abraham believed!  This faith and belief was that Abraham believed and looked for a certain city which was represented by the earthly Salem, and later called Jerusalem.  I believe this is the exact spot that Jacob called the "gate of heaven".  It is also the city that will be comforted with joy and gladness, thanksgiving, and the voice of melody in a future time.  The garden of the Lord in Eden was the exact spot on the earth where the Father "placed" Adam and Eve to bring forth his children in his own image and likeness.  "Earthly" Jerusalem was chosen as the exact spot that the Father could reconcile himself with his children, and I might add, is also the exact spot where the sin was committed that caused his children to lose his image and likeness.  This is also the exact spot that Jesus Christ gave himself in sacrifice for that tragic sin.  Therefore this is also the exact spot where the restoring of joy and gladness, thanksgiving, and melody must start and take place that will eventually spread over the whole earth!                                  

The New Jerusalem

The Bible speaks of a time when Jerusalem will be a city of peace and joy, and the praise of the earth; and would also be called a city of truth.  The prophets wrote many scriptures that explain this time of real peace and righteousness that Jerusalem will restore on this earth.  For the sake of space, I will show only a few scriptures that explain this very important truth.  Take the time to carefully read and understand Isa. 2:3, 62:7, 65:18-19, Jer. 3:17, and Zech. 8:3.

Isaiah 2:3 And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. (KJV)
Isaiah 62:7 And give him no rest, till he establish, and till he make Jerusalem a praise in the earth. (KJV)
Isaiah 65:18-19 But be ye glad and rejoice for ever [in that] which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy. 19 And I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in my people: and the voice of weeping shall be no more heard in her, nor the voice of crying. (KJV)
Jeremiah 3:17 At that time they shall call Jerusalem the throne of the LORD; and all the nations shall be gathered unto it, to the name of the LORD, to Jerusalem: neither shall they walk anymore after the imagination of their evil heart. (KJV)
Zechariah 8:3 Thus saith the LORD; I am returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy mountain. (KJV)

This will be the time that Jerusalem will be called the "throne of the Lord" (Jer. 3:17).  As was explained previously, this will be the throne of David that Christ will restore in the coming 1,000 year rule of Christ with the resurrected saints.  This is also explained in my booklet "The Kingdom of God".  After the 1000 year rule, the earth will then be fit and suitable for the Father to literally move his "home" on this planet and dwell with his children and be their God, as he has always wanted to be.  This will be the time when the holy city (which is now called "new Jerusalem") will come down out of heaven.  Rev. 3:12 and 21:2 are the only scriptures found in the Bible that mention this term "new Jerusalem".

Revelation 3:12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God,[which is] new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and [I will write upon him] my new name. (KJV)
Revelation 21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. (KJV)

Keep in mind that the title of this booklet is "The New Jerusalem".  It is not entitled "Zion", or "Daughter of Zion" or "City of the Great King", etc.  The holy and heavenly city of Jerusalem is not called "new Jerusalem" until it is ready to come down out of heaven from God and settle on planet earth.  This heavenly city will then be prepared as a "bride adorned for her husband", which is why it is now called "new Jerusalem".  Notice again in verse 21:2 the little word "as" a bride (adorned for her husband).  Therefore it does not say that "new Jerusalem" is the bride and the wife of Christ.  The "new Jerusalem" will be "adorned" in the same manner as a bride is also "adorned" for her husband.  The word "adorned" must be understood in the way it is used in Rev. 21:2.  It is no. 2885 in Strong's Lexicon, and it could mean that "new Jerusalem" is putting in order, or arranging, or making ready, or preparing to receive the "daughter of Zion" back again; however now as Christ's remarried wife.

2885 kosmeo {kos-meh'-o}from 2889; TDNT - 3:867,459; v AV - adorn 5, garnish 4, trim 1; 10
1) to put in order, arrange, make ready, prepare 2) to ornament, adore 3) metaph. to embellish with honour, gain honour

The angel that talked with the apostle John wanted to show John the "bride and wife of the Lamb".  John was taken in spirit to a great and high mountain (as also was Christ when he was tempted of the devil, as we have seen), and saw holy Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, as it explains in Rev. 21:9-10.

Revelation 21:9-10 And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. 10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, (KJV)

Again, this does not identify the Lamb's wife as being "holy Jerusalem".  John was only allowed to see the location of the Lamb's wife.  John in spirit saw the wall of this city, which had twelve gates that had the names of the twelve tribes of Israel.  Rev. 21:12 properly identifies the Lamb's wife as being the twelve tribes of Israel.

Revelation 21:12 And had a wall great and high, [and] had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are [the names] of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: (KJV)

If you will recall, Abraham understood this city as having actual foundations.  These are twelve actual foundations that were garnished with all manner of precious stones, and the names of the twelve apostles are written in these foundations.  They were written because they were selected by Christ to build the Lamb's wife (the Church); after the "earthly" Jerusalem was finished with the old covenant.  Read and believe Rev. 21:14, 19-20.

Revelation 21:19-20 And the foundations of the wall of the city [were] garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation [was] jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, achalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; 20 The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst. (KJV)
Revelation 21:14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. (KJV)

Please understand that "earthly" Jerusalem had fulfilled its purpose, and was finished at the death of Christ.  In a sense it could be said "new Jerusalem" had replaced what could be called "old Jerusalem", simply because this "earthly" city is no longer in bondage with her children; as was previously explained.  Keep in mind, this city was in legal standing to receive her children at the time John was given this vision.  The angel that spoke to the apostle John had a golden reed, and was about to measure this city.  These are real actual measurements that cannot be explained to somehow have a "spiritual" meaning.  We must be very careful in reading the following scriptures, and let us not assume something that is not stated.  The actual measurements of the "new Jerusalem" that is going to come down out of heaven from God is carefully explained for us in Rev. 21:15-17.

Revelation 21:15-17 And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof. 16 And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal. 17 And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred [and] forty [and] four cubits, [according to] the measure of a man, that is, of the angel. (KJV)

First of all, this city was shaped in a "square" in which the length of this city was as large as the breadth, therefore making a perfect square with four walls.  Secondly; this city measured 12,000 furlongs, which I believe was measured around the city.  Therefore by simple calculation based on a "furlong" being about 600 feet in length, would make the walls of this city totaling about 1,400 miles.  Thirdly; the length, breadth and height of the four walls were of equal measurements.  Is this not what is stated in verse 16?  Therefore there is only one more measurement that is not accounted for.  What is the height of the entire wall around the city?  The answer is given in verse 17 as being 144 cubits.  Again, since a cubit is about 18 inches, therefore by simple calculation it would be about 216 feet.  I believe this city was about 216 feet in height, and measured about 1,400 miles accounting for all the four walls, with each wall therefore being 350 miles in length.  This is a very large city by our standards of today, and also a very real city!  There are some people of today that choose to believe that this city was formed in a cube that extended 1,500 miles in the sky!  It is their choice to believe this.  At least they are willing to believe that this city exists!  It is much better to believe in a 1,500 mile cubed city than ignoring or trying to explain that this city is just something "spiritual", as many people of today have done.  The misunderstanding comes by not realizing and taking in account the walls of this city.  Keep in mind this city had four walls that were identical!  The length, breadth, and height of the four walls were of equal measurements, which is what the angel implied.
    
Many believing Christian people of today read the scriptures concerning this heavenly city of God.  However they somehow cannot believe that this could be a very real city that will come down out of heaven from God.  On the other hand, they are willing to confess and believe in a very real Creator God.  However in their carnal reasoning and thinking it never crosses their minds that the Creator God has to have a real home and a dwelling!  God is a very personal being, and therefore has to be located somewhere in our universe!  It is also very important to understand that God's intention has always been to eventually be able to dwell and be with his family.  The Bible explains in great detail why this is not yet possible.  However when the "new Jerusalem" is finally on the earth, God will then truly dwell with his family and they shall truly be his people.  God will wipe away all tears, and there will be no more sorrow and pain, and God's family will once again be in his image and likeness with no more death.  This is all explained in Rev. 21:3-4.

Revelation 21:3-4 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God [is] with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, [and be] their God. 4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. (KJV)

God's home is furnished with very costly precious medals, and it is beyond our comprehension of the beauty and splendor that Creator of the universe dwells in.  Can we imagine a whole city that is about 122,500 square miles, and over 200 feet in height, "shine" like a most precious stone that is clear as crystal, and consisting of pure gold that appeared like clear glass?  See Rev. 21:11 and 21:18.

Revelation 21:11 Having the glory of God: and her light [was] like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; (KJV)
Revelation 21:18 And the building of the wall of it was [of] jasper: and the city [was] pure gold, like unto clear glass. (KJV)

The city of the great King also has an innumerable company of angels to administer the government of God, and all the souls and spirits of the righteous saints that have died are there with Jesus Christ.  This truth is addressed and explained in my booklet "Life and Death".  The conscious spirits of these righteous saints are being trained and are made perfect in this heavenly city and country of the great King.  See Heb. 12:22-23.

Hebrews 12:22-23 But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, 23 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, (KJV)

In Conclusion

We are all very familiar and have heard all the songs that have been written about this holy and heavenly city of the great King.  Our church songs have phrases such as "streets of pure gold", and "mansions in the sky", etc., and many more phrases that are too numerous to mention that tell a precious story about the heavenly city of God.  It seems we are a people that have this "heavenly city and country" as a part of our "religious" thinking and background, and we have a yearning in our hearts and minds to go back to our "heavenly" home.  Every Sunday we hear the sermons preached that attempt to explain the type of theology that pertain to this very real heavenly place.  Our churches and our "spiritually enlightened" ministers somehow cannot seem to "put it together", and to really confess with heart-felt conviction that this heavenly city and country really exists! 

Yet, most professing well-meaning Christian people will without hesitation confess their conviction that the Bible is indeed the inspired word of God, and is God's divine revelation to his people.  When presented with scriptures about Abraham, they as a rule will make statements such as; "Yes, I know it says that, but that is Jewish", or "It cannot really mean that", or "That has a spiritual meaning", or "The Old Testament is done away", etc.  Pertaining to this heavenly city you will hear statements such as; "The heavenly city just means the Church", or "It pertains to the Jews", or "The city of God has a spiritual application", and so forth and so on.  If we choose to profess Christianity; what kind of Christian people are we when we somehow cannot believe what we read plainly from the Bible?
    
I know that generally speaking, people are very carnal minded and cannot grasp spiritual and eternal things, and I must say, this includes the author of this booklet!  However the author of this booklet has decided to believe and display the scriptures that pertain to this real heavenly city.  The readers of this booklet therefore "have the ball in their court" so to speak, and now they must decide what to do with this knowledge.  When presented with simple truths out of the Bible some people are inclined to say; "I can't believe that", or "I don't feel that is what it means", or "I think this is what it means", or "That is not what my Pastor told me", or "It is not for us know", and so forth and so on.  The fact is, it does not matter what we "feel" or what we "think"!  The truth about this heavenly city has already been written, and therefore it behooves us and it becomes our duty to find out what the truth is about this city.  Generally it is just a matter of reading what is written, and then believing what it says!
    
The truth of the Bible should be the highest priority in a believing Christian's life!  We are indeed on very dangerous theological ground if we refuse to believe what our biological father Abraham believed!  Yet it is very sad that many of today's Christian people would rather put a "spiritual" spin and twist to the heavenly city of the great King.  They would rather teach and believe that this city is applied to the "Church" or some other uncertain meaning.  It is also incredible that many of today's Christians believe and teach that the entire book of Revelation has been fulfilled in the year 70 AD.  We are a deceived people that are determined to believe and teach all manner of spiritual and religious "fantasies" and lies.  It seems we are a people that will believe anything, except the convicting power and truth of the Bible!  When Jesus Christ was given in sacrifice, the physical temple in the "earthly" city of Jerusalem was destined to be destroyed; simply because it was no longer needed.  In many New Testament scriptures, and by the words of Jesus Christ himself, it is now possible for God to "dwell" in us, and we are now the "temple" of God.  This is very important!  See John 14:23, 1 Cor. 3:16-17 and 2 Cor. 6:16.

John 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. (KJV)
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and [that] the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which [temple] ye are. (KJV)
2 Corinthians 6:16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in [them]; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. (KJV)

Jesus Christ plainly stated that a man that loves Christ will therefore keep (believe) Christ's words (John 14:23).  Therefore the Father will also love him, and both Christ and the Father will make their abode and actually "dwell" in that man.  However it is a matter of loving and keeping the words of Christ.  The physical temple that God chose to temporarily "dwell" and commune with is people is rendered useless, because the Father is now able to see his children in a completely different way.  The sin debt has now been paid, therefore the Father can now dwell in us "through Christ".  In the same manner, his children can also go to their Father "through Christ", and not through a physical building called a "temple".  However "earthly" Jerusalem is still the exact spot where "loose ends" or "unfinished business" so to speak, must be settled once and for all time; and that is why it is still called "the holy city".  This can be proven in Rev. 11:2.  Other scriptures could be shown also.

Revelation 11:2 But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty [and] two months.(KJV)

Present-day Jerusalem is biblically considered as a "holy city", and in some way will have a physical building that will serve as a "temple" according to Rev. 11:2.  It does not mean that a special building must be built to serve as a real temple (although that could happen).  There has never been a man in past history that set himself in the physical temple at Jerusalem declaring himself that he is God to the extent of actually deceiving the whole world.  Therefore we must choose to simply believe what is plainly explained (without trying to put a "spiritual" spin and meaning) by the statement made by the apostle Paul in 2 Thes. 2:4.

2 Thessalonians 2:4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. (KJV)

There will indeed be a "temple" in Jerusalem, and a man will show to the world that he is God.  It is common knowledge among many of today's truth-seeking people that Jerusalem is presently occupied by the "Canaanites" just as it was in the days of Moses and Joshua.  Jerusalem and the temple service was also controlled by these certain people in the days of Jesus Christ.  This is why Christ made these heart-rendering statements found in Matt. 23:37-38.

Matthew 23:37-38 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, [thou] that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under [her] wings, and ye would not! 38 Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. (KJV)

Jesus Christ was in agony to see his Father's "house" left in control of these certain people that he himself stated were a "generation of vipers".  However it is not common knowledge among today's deceived churches that these certain people are indeed on a program to rule the world from the exact spot on the earth that the Bible itself states would take place when Jesus Christ comes back.  This is why we live in highly deceptive times!  However we can all read the "last page" that records the final outcome of the "enmity" of Gen. 3:15!  The "head" and the "feet" principal and prophecy spoken of in Gen. 3:15 will finally be realized and fulfilled!   The feet of Jesus Christ will indeed "bruise" the "serpent's" head when his feet will stand in that day at the exact location that he gave himself in sacrifice 2,000 years age.  Jesus Christ will come from his Father's house in heaven, and come back to this earth to settle some unfinished business!  Read and believe Zech. 14:4.

Zechariah 14:4 And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which [is] before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, [and there shall be] a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south. (KJV)

It is very important that we watch for certain events to unfold at Jerusalem.  If some type of covenant or a real peace treaty is signed in Jerusalem, then it could very well be that the wheels and gears of Bible prophecy could start.  I believe the fulfillment of the final "week" of Daniel's "seventy weeks" prophecy could indeed start if a covenant of "peace" is reached and agreed by all parties.  Jerusalem is indeed the "hot spot" of the earth, and is a time bomb waiting to explode!  The fuse will be lit when the final "week" of the "seventy weeks" will start.  It is not for me to say when all this will take place in the coming years.  A real peace treaty could happen "soon", or there could be many years of terrorism and bloodshed in this nation known as "Israel".  We simply do not know and cannot know the exact timing when the countdown of these events will take place.  The apostle Paul warned the believers of his day to not be shaken in mind or troubled concerning when the day of Christ is at hand.  I think Paul believed that the return of Christ would happen in his lifetime, because of the urgency of these following statements.  Read 2 Thes. 2:1-3 very carefully from Paul's point of view.

2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and [by] our gathering together unto him, 2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for [that day shall not come], except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; (KJV)

First of all, Paul carefully warned this Church to not be deceived by any man about the timing of the coming of Christ.  Paul explained that Christ would not come until a "falling away" would come first followed by the revealing of the "man of sin".  This "falling away" I believe holds the key that will signal the countdown of prophesied events preceding the coming of Jesus Christ.  Paul explained that the Thessalonian Church knew what it was that was preventing or withholding the "man of sin" from being revealed.  Paul then explains that the "mystery of iniquity" was already working.  This is explained in 2 Thes. 2:6-9.

2 Thessalonians 2:6-9 And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. 7 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth [will let], until he be taken out of the way. 8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 9 [Even him], whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, (KJV)

What is the "mystery of iniquity"?  Iniquity simply means a condition of without law, and a contempt and wickedness; as it shows in Strong's Lexicon no. 458.

458 anomia {an-om-ee'-ah} from 459; TDNT - 4:1085,646; n f AV - iniquity 12, unrighteousness 1, transgress the law + 4060 1, transgression of the law 1; 15
1) the condition of without law 1a) because ignorant of it 1b) because of violating it 2) contempt and violation of law, iniquity, wickedness

I believe a condition of lawlessness was working in Paul's day that was allowed by the Spirit of God (now letteth), as verse 7 explained.  However the Spirit of God would be taken out of the way, which would then let this man of sin be revealed.  This truth only means that the Spirit of God and the man of sin cannot function at the same time.  Therefore when the Spirit of God is taken out of the way to allow the rule of that Wicked (one); this would then cause the "falling away".  How can the Spirit of God allow or permit a condition of lawlessness?  Keep in mind, Paul stated that the Thessalonian Church knew what it was that withheld this revealing of the man of sin.  Paul made another very important similar statement  concerning this term "falling away".  Notice Gal. 5:4.

Galatians 5:4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. (KJV)

According to the words of Paul anyone that attempts to be justified by the law (law of Moses, if you will) are in a condition that could be called "fallen away" from grace.  Keep in mind this "falling away" will occur first, and as Paul implied; the man of sin was revealed very soon after.  It could also be that the "falling away" has already happened when most churches departed from the understanding of who true Israel is, which would allow the man of sin to deceive the world into believing in a false Israel.  What must truth seekers look for that will happen in Jerusalem before a man sits in the temple performing miracles?  I truly believe sometime in the future, Jerusalem will have instituted a form of worship by attempting to copy the sacrificial system of the laws that were given under Moses.  They are already copying, and have for years, the festivals as given by Moses, including the weekly Sabbath.  I must say however they are making a complete mockery of the true intent of these types of laws! 

I believe this form of worship in itself would not cause the Spirit of God to be removed.  However keep in mind this form of worship will be attempted at the exact location where a holy God placed his name!  Also keep in mind most of the deceived so-called Christian world will approve of all this false worship.  Also keep in mind that most of the Christian world understands the purpose of grace, as did the Thessalonian Church of Paul's day as Paul carefully instructed them.  When all this type of worship is taking place in the holy city, most of the Christian world will not only approve of it, but will justify it!  The Christian world that understood what grace is all about, now believes they are justified by the laws of Moses.  I do believe these will be very perilous times because a deceived Christian world will look to Jerusalem and attempt to enforce some of these laws.  My booklet "The Seventh Day" explains why the Sabbath day, known as the "Jewish Sabbath" based on the seventh day of the week, will be enforced during these trying times.  I believe this is why Jesus Christ instructed us to pray that our "flight" be not on the Sabbath day during these severe times (Matt. 24:20).

Matthew 24:20 But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day: (KJV)

I  do not know when the "scales will be tipped" so to speak, that will cause grace and the Spirit of God to be removed.  Be assured that something will happen in Jerusalem that will start the countdown of events that will determine who the proper owners are of the holy city of Jerusalem.  More information on these end-time prophesied events is addressed in my booklet entitled "The Kingdom of God", and should therefore be carefully read.  As was mentioned before, we live in highly deceptive times.  We should therefore not be troubled or soon shaken in mind, and consider the times ahead of us in the same manner as the apostle Paul instructed the Thessalonian Church; as we have seen previously in 2 Thes. 2:2.

2 Thessalonians 2:2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. (KJV)

It is very obvious that the day of Christ was not at hand during the days of the apostle Paul.  I also do not believe the day of Christ and his return to the earth is at hand in the days that we live in now.  "At hand" is meant to mean that Christ's return is now on the same time schedule as Paul referred to; which is during (or after) the rule of the man of sin.  However the obvious signs preceding "at hand" are here; especially in the political world, and also in the religious and Christian world.  The political world is going into a one-world government that will bring so-called "peace", and with Christian and religious teachings the world is being conditioned to accept a "false Christ" that will rule from Jerusalem.  In Luke 21:36 Christ instructed believers to watch for these political and religious signs.

Luke 21:36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. (KJV).

We must uphold the truth of the Bible, and it is also a must that truth-seeking believers be active in building the Church of Jesus Christ!  May our sincere prayers be that Our Heavenly Father will give us the truth and the wisdom that will prepare us to meet our elderly brother Jesus Christ, and to live forever in the New Jerusalem!

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