|
|||||||
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|||||||
What is Man?
This is a subject and a question that is taken so much for granted in today's fast paced materialistic world. Most important, the Creator of man is also taken for granted, and is generally rejected along with the Creator's answer to this profound question. We are a nation and a people that generally is occupied with the vain and empty things of this world, which are "things" that do not feed and satisfy the soul. All these "things" do not provide the answers to what we really need to know about ourselves. As a rule, we do not consider the relevancy of questions such as what is man, and why is man here on planet earth? We tend to put a religious "twist" to these types of questions, and leave questions of this nature for our "learned" modern-day ministers and theologians to explain.
Most people are "caught up" with this stressful fast paced society, therefore do not take the time to consider and to really mentally dwell on the awesome reality of the existence of an all knowing, all wise, and all powerful Creator God. It is our reasonable duty to daily set aside a special time for prayer and meditation to really consider the uniqueness of man, and also the beauty, splendor and harmony of creation itself. It is so normal and natural for us to be involved with little things in daily living that the eternal things so easily will escape us. Therefore the very real eternal things are treated very casually, or are taken for granted. All the material blessings that we all enjoy are also taken for granted along with the source and the Great Giver of these blessings. We are a very unthankful spoiled people, because we are somehow "programmed" to believe that our so-called prosperity was earned and made possible by something that we have done to deserve all this goodness. This fact is also taken for granted!
We were all born in a society that reminds us constantly that man has finally "evolved" to this point in history to achieve almost anything man sets his mind to, or that man desires to possess. Indeed this is true! We have produced advanced technology that has allowed man to even achieve space travel in a small way. However the fact is, man is not aware of his very limited and helpless condition! Who does man think he is, and what really is man? This world is filled with many beliefs and religions with each claiming to have some understanding of the answer to this profound question. However we must go to a source other than within ourselves to discover this answer. The answer to this question is found in the Creator's instruction manual (the Bible) that came along with the product, being the creation of Adam (man). In Psl. 8:4, 144:3 and Job 7:17 it states that king David of Israel, and a man called Job also asked God this same profound question.Psalm 8:4 What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? (KJV)
Psalm 144:3 LORD, what [is] man, that thou takest knowledge of him! [or] the son of man, that thou makest account of him! (KJV)
Job 7:17 What [is] man, that thou shouldest magnify him? and that thou shouldest set thine heart upon him? (KJV)In Psl. 8:4 David asks and proclaims; "What is man, that thou art mindful of him?". Job also asks this same question, and stated that God set his heart on man (Job 7:17). The Creator God is indeed mindful and has set his heart on his creation of Adam, and is also concerned of the helpless condition that Adam's true descendants have genetically inherited. This is very important to understand because the laws of biology demand an answer as to why the Adam creation was reduced to aging, pain, sickness and death. If man was created in the image and likeness of God, which originally he was, why is man subject to this "deathly" condition? The answer of course is that man is no longer in the image and likeness of God! This truth is very important to understand, and will be addressed later.
As we begin this study it is very important to understand that the creation of Adam is much different than the creation of "kind after it's kind" that is mentioned ten times in the first chapter of the book of Geneses. Through-out this booklet, the term "Adamite", "Adam kind", or "Adam- man", etc., will be used instead of just "man" or "mankind". Please bear with me, and it will become obvious as we progress in this study why it is necessary to always include "Adam" with "man". The proper premise of this study will be based on the fact of this profound difference in the Adam creation with that of the non-Adamic breathing creations. This booklet will address only the Adam kind creation, and what Adam kind became and fell into as a result of a tragic sin in the Garden of Eden. Before reading this booklet it would be strongly advised to read my booklet entitled "The World Before Adam", which addresses the world of the angels. Therefore this understanding will lay the proper ground-work for this very important study.
We live in a society that cannot explain the purpose of our existence, and why we are on planet earth. These are very valid and serious questions that deserve to be answered! This supposedly "intelligent" Christian society with all its "truths" and divided churches does not seem to know, or is able to explain why Adam fell and what he was reduced to. More important, the many beliefs and religions cannot explain the destiny of Adam man. If we dare to expand our minds and think in logical and intelligent ways, we have got to come to the conclusion that Adam man is not an accident. Adam man is not the product of blind chance of a very slow process called "evolution", that has taken perhaps billions of years! It is literally insane to actually believe that Adam man has finally advanced to the status of an "intelligent" thinking animal that is standing on two legs. Yet it is incredible that this is the "normal" concept and belief that is conveyed by most of our "learning" institutions and our government! This "normal" understanding is also accepted by our scientific community and non religious world.
However, our Christian culture with our churches will acknowledge the existence of a Supreme Creator God; and that man is a product of design in a carefully thought-out plan in the scheme of creation. On the other hand, our modern-day churches do not seem to know and cannot explain what Adam was before he sinned. The modern churches also cannot explain the dramatic change that came to Adam's body after he sinned. The world's churches also do not seem to understand that the complete system of the blood and fat sacrificial laws under Moses were directly based on what happened to the body of Adam when he sinned. It was obedience to these laws by the Adam kind Israelite people that provided a temporary "remedy" for the Adamic sin.
It is my sincere desire in this booklet to show truth from the Bible on what Adam was before he sinned, and the tragic condition that all of Adam kind have genetically inherited and are presently in. The most serious condition that Adam man is in, is that he is not aware that he was never designed to be in these sinful "earthy" bodies. These are very important issues that must be addressed, and we should not be afraid to face these hard facts of life! These are very real issues that must not be ignored if we dare to be sincere and serious about this study. The Bible is generally rejected by "intelligent" Adam man, and by this decision Adam man will be held accountable of the spiritual trouble and dilemma that he is in. It is not so much a question of understanding the answers, as it is to be aware of this dilemma; and the helpless condition that Adam man is in! The Noah Webster Dictionary has this meaning for the word "dilemma":2. A difficult or doubtful choice; a state of things in which evils or obstacles present themselves on every side, and it is difficult to determine which course to pursue.
The reason I have chosen the word "dilemma" is because I simply do not know any other word to describe the situation that Adam man is in. The problem that Adam man faces is very serious, and strangely Adam man is not even aware of this problem; or that he has to make a choice. Adam man is unknowingly in a situation that he has to make a choice, and that he must determine which course in life to pursue. This is the purpose of the Bible, and why the Bible had to be written! The Creator God used humble men of Adam kind to write the Bible, and these men understood the spiritual "dilemma" that they were in. It is awesome to realize that we can also basically understand what these humble men understood, since we can read their writings! The Bible was written to show Adam kind their tragic sinful condition that they have genetically inherited. The Bible also explains what Adam kind must do, and the legal action that must be taken to cancel this sinful condition. It was only the "generations of Adam" that the Bible was written to, as it states in Gen. 5:1.
Genesis 5:1 This [is] the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him; (KJV)
The word "generations" in Gen. 5:1 is no. 8435 in Strong's Con., and literally means the descendants or family of people that genetically proceeded from Adam by physical conception and birth.
8435 towledah (to-led-aw'); or toledah (to-led-aw'); from 3205; (plural only) descent, i.e. family; (figuratively) history:
KJV-- birth, generations.The other non-Adamic people and living creations never fell or departed from their order and Godly design. This truth is very important to understand! It is only the "generations of Adam" that are not in the condition that they were originally designed to be in. It would be very helpful to read my booklets "Life and Death" and "Repentance and Obedience". These booklets explain the profound helpless and sinful condition that Adam kind genetically inherited from conception and birth.
I want to state in the beginning of this study that this booklet is in no way intended to promote what is known as "racism", or to have "prejudice" toward other people and races. Most well-meaning Christian people of today are mentally "programmed" to believe that such words as "racism" and "prejudice" can mean hatred toward the other races and people. If we are honest with ourselves, it is simply recognizing that the races are indeed different by Godly design, and it certainly could not be called hatred! It could more correctly be called loving and respecting each race in the way they culturally and genetically are naturally designed to be in. To favor the Adamite family of people in honor and preference over other people and races is wrong! However it must be understood that the Bible does indeed make this preference, since it is only the Adamite people that are held accountable for sin. Only the "generations of Adam" fell and departed from their Godly order and design. Please understand this simple truth!
It is a biblical and biological impossibility for all people to genetically have come from Adam, since this would go against all of God's laws of biology that God himself set in motion. Regardless of what is being taught today by the popular (accepted by the world) ministers, the mixing and the adulteration of the races is strictly forbidden in the Bible! The Creator God designed each race in the genetic pattern that he wants them to be in, and they are and always will be his creation! It was by the adulteration (mixing) of the races that caused the Adamite flesh to corrupt itself, and this sin is what brought the flood of Noah's day. Noah was a just man and perfect in his "generations". See Gen. 6:9, 12.Genesis 6:9 These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God. (KJV)
Genesis 6:12 And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth. (KJV)Again, the word "generations" in Gen. 6:9 is no. 8435 in Strong's Con., and as we have seen by this meaning it could only mean that Noah was perfect genetically and racially. The profound truth of all this is that the races are different by Godly design, and it is impossible for all the races to have genetically come from one common origin! The Bible deals only with the "generations of Adam", and it is only these people that need to be legally restored (or saved) the way they were originally intended to be.
Through the old covenant given to Israel, the Bible explains in detail the sacrificial temporary "remedy" for the Adamic sin. It was required for the Adamite Israel family of people to obey the laws of the old Covenant, for this "remedy" to be in force. However they still had to come under the future shed blood of Christ in order to be "saved". If Israelites died while obeying the laws of the old covenant they were preserved in "hell" to later be taken out of "hell", and then receive their "salvation". This truth is explained in my booklet "Life and Death". The "salvation" that is talked about in the New Testament is accomplished through a new covenant, which called for the second Adam (Christ) to suffer, shed his blood and die in our stead. Therefore believers do not have to die the "second" death. See Luke 22:20, and Rev. 20:6.Luke 22:20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you. (KJV)
Revelation 20:6 Blessed and holy [is] he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. (KJV)The righteousness of faith that went along with the salvation was a particular promise that was given and promised to Abraham before the sacrificial laws of Moses were even given. This "salvation" was not by the sacrificial laws of the old covenant, but through a certain promise given to Abraham. This is very important to understand! See Rom. 4:13 and Gal. 3:17.
Romans 4:13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, [was] not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. (KJV)
Galatians 3:17 And this I say, [that] the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. (KJV)There are many scriptures in the New Testament that prove what the faith and belief was that legally brought "salvation" to the early believers. This truth is carefully explained in my booklet entitled, "Abraham's Covenant and Baptism".
Adam "Hiding" From God
The questions of what Adam was before he sinned, what Adam man has become, and most important; the destiny of Adam man are very real and valid questions! They are not some convenient "fantasy" or emotional religious "feelings" thought up in our minds, if you know what I mean. The cause and the reason that there are so many divided belief systems in today's churches is very easy to understand! Christians in general are determined to "hide" from, or you could say "dodge" these very serious and profound questions. Indeed that is precisely what the first man (Adam) said when he committed the first sin. Adam stated that he was "afraid" because he was "naked", and he "hid" himself when he heard the voice of God (Gen. 3:10).
Genesis 3:10 And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I [was] naked; and I hid myself. (KJV)
This "nakedness" is very important to understand and will be explained later. The "generations of Adam" have been "hiding" from God ever since, and it is these people that are "afraid" to get real with their God. It is these people that are "afraid" of spiritual knowledge, and it is in their genetic makeup to want to "hide" from the obvious truth and the cause of their sinful condition. The "generations of Adam" have genetically inherited from Adam this type of "fear" and this desire to "hide" from eternal truth. They will try to avoid at all costs, and refuse to mentally deal with valid questions such as; where did Adam kind come from, what really was the sin in the Garden of Eden, and what happened to Adam and Eve as a result of their sin? All the many divided belief systems and all the false worship of false gods are a direct result of Israel being "afraid" to face their "dilemma" and their Maker!
False worship and obedience to false gods were Israel's sins in the past, and they are also the sins of modern-day Israel. The question of who are the modern-day Israelites is explained in my booklet "Lost Israel and the Gentiles". This type of worship is nothing more than what could be called "distractions" that has taken Israel (past and present) away from their God and away from the truth of the Bible. Because of their spiritual "roots" and genetic makeup, the true Israelites will "instinctively" worship something; whether it be the true God or false gods. They will generally choose the "distractions", because they do not want to deal with their sinful flesh and face up to the obvious truth of their "deathly" condition. This sinful flesh that the "generations of Adam" have inherited from birth is the basis and cause of all the "distractions" and the deceptions of false gods that the Adam kind Israelites so easily will accept and obey. This sinful flesh will be discussed later.
The most serious deception that present-day Israel is involved with, is that they will refuse to believe who they are! Modern-day Israel has chosen to "hide" from this obvious truth, and they will reject and refuse to acknowledge who they really are; even if the evidence is overwhelming! It is these people that have chosen the spiritual road to "fantasy land", and as a result will believe such extreme "fantasies" as the eating of an apple is what caused the fall of Adam! They generally are not interested to do a small word study into the biblical meaning and usage of such words as "tree", "fruit", "desire" and "eat". The biblical meaning of these words will therefore automatically unravel and explain what happened in the Garden of Eden! If we use logic and realize that from God's point of view the punishment always has to fit the crime. Therefore we can analyze from Eve's punishment what the crime was. According to Gen. 3:16, Eve's sin was sexual in nature because her punishment revolved around conception and childbirth, and her "desire" would now be to her husband.Genesis 3:16 Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire [shall be] to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee. (KJV)
Who was her "desire" directed to before her husband? It seems natural and common sense should tell us, that this type of punishment has absolutely nothing to do with eating fruit from a tree, such as an apple! This is only one doctrinal example among others, that could be shown how fallen Adam kind has chosen "fantasies" and "distractions" over obvious truth, spiritual logic and common sense. The frustration and sadness of this is, that if these things are pointed out to sincere Christian people they will generally reject what you are trying to tell them; and in most cases will also reject you for bringing it to their attention!
The Image and Likeness of God
What does in the "image" and "likeness" of God really mean? The world's churches have done much spiritual harm and damage in trying to explain these very important words. The modern-day churches are under the false impression that we are in the "image" and "likeness" of God in our fallen and sinful condition! It goes against God's glory and majesty for sinful Adam kind to be in God's image and likeness in this "deathly" condition! However it is important to understand that Adam was originally created in God's image and after his likeness as it shows in Gen. 1:26.
Genesis 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. (KJV)
The words "image" and "likeness" are self-explanatory and mean exactly what they imply to mean! The word "image" is no. 6754 in Strong's Con. The word "likeness" is no. 1823, and is also taken from no. 1819. Study these meanings and realize the awesome glory and status that Adam must have had when he was created.
6754 tselem (tseh'-lem); from an unused root meaning to shade; a phantom, i.e. (figuratively) illusion, resemblance; hence, a representative figure, especially an idol: KJV-- image, vain shew.
1823 demuwth (dem-ooth'); from 1819; resemblance; concretely, model, shape; adverbially, like: KJV-- fashion, like (-ness, as), manner, similitude.
1819 damah (daw-maw'); a primitive root; to compare; by implication, to resemble, liken, consider: KJV-- compare, devise, (be) like (-n), mean, think, use similitudes.Adam was created to actually resemble God and was in the same similitude of God, and he visibly appeared as God would also appear in bodily form. Adam was a copy of God, and was the representative of God on this earth. Adam was like God, and in the same fashion as God. This truth is hard for us to comprehend, however this is what the words "image" and "likeness" really mean! Indeed, we in these sinful fallen bodies are not equipped to understand how it was possible for Adam and Eve to really appear and look like the Creator of the universe! It is also impossible for us to comprehend how God could take the dust of the ground, form and shape the body of Adam, and cause Adam to become a "living soul" that was designed to live forever. See Gen. 2:7.
Genesis 2:7 And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. (KJV)
It could be stated that Adam's soul became "alive", if you will, after God breathed the "breath of life" into the nostrils of Adam. Keep in mind it does not say Adam's soul came into existence when God formed the body of Adam. It is my current understanding that the soul of Adam was in existence before his body was formed. I do believe the Father knows his children before they are born in an "earthy" birth. This would only be possible if either the soul or the spirit (or both) are in existence prior to a birth. In John 17:6, Christ plainly stated that the Father knew the apostles, since they were his ("thine they were") sometime in the "eternal" past.
John 17:6 I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word. (KJV)
Also, why would Godly men proclaim and confess that they were "strangers" and "pilgrims" on the earth if they did not exist in either soul or spirit (or both), somewhere "in eternity" prior to their physical birth? See Heb. 11:13.
Hebrews 11:13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of [them], and embraced [them], and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. (KJV)
These words; "strangers" and "pilgrims" do imply that these Godly men came from somewhere other than the earth, since they were "placed" on the earth. Read Job 20:4.
Job 20:4 Knowest thou [not] this of old, since man was placed upon earth, (KJV)
As was mentioned before, when Adam sinned he was no longer in the image and after the likeness of God. When Adam sinned, all of the unborn of Adam kind were then destined to be born in the image of the "earthy". This is important! See 1 Cor. 15:48-49.
1 Corinthians 15:48-49 As [is] the earthy, such [are] they also that are earthy: and as [is] the heavenly, such [are] they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. (KJV)
The apostle Paul states in these verses that we are the same as all the other "earthy" creations (by implication); however we shall (future) also bear the image of the heavenly. At the resurrection the believing Adam kind Israelites will again be restored (or saved) the way they were originally intended to be, and they will once again be in the image and after the likeness of God. In 1 Cor. 11:7 Paul did not say that man is in the image and glory of God. The word "in" is not used!
1 Corinthians 11:7 For a man indeed ought not to cover [his] head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man. (KJV)
Is this a contradiction with what Paul said in 1 Cor. 15:49, in which he implied that we are now bearing the image of the "earthy"; and that we shall (future) bear the image of the heavenly? I believe 1 Cor. 11:7 could be explained to mean that Adam man was designed to bear the image and glory of God, which is why Adam man should not cover his head. It was stated in Gen. 2:7 that God breathed the "breath of life" into Adam's (dust of the ground) body, and this "breath" was designed to sustain Adam forever. The "breath" of God cannot be understood and explained with fleshly minds. However this "breath" obviously was not oxygen that Adam needed to draw into his lungs to survive physically, since Adam was given an immortal body. There is no biblical account of God breathing the "breath of life" into any living creation other than the flesh body of Adam. It was only the Adam creation that required the "breath of God", since Adam was created after the God kind (image and likeness); and literally came from God. However in Gen. 6:17, it states that God was to destroy all flesh which had the "breath of life".
Genesis 6:17 And, behold, I, even I, do bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh, wherein [is] the breath of life, from under heaven; [and] every thing that [is] in the earth shall die. (KJV)
I believe this verse can be explained to mean all of Adamite flesh was to be destroyed, since it was only Adam kind that originally was given the breath of life. See the statement; "wherein is the breath of life" (only Adam kind), which is quoted and explained in Gen. 6:17. However when the waters destroyed all of the Adamite flesh (except Noah and his family of course), it also destroyed all other kinds of flesh and living creations. Adam kind flesh had corrupted itself and became useless to God, therefore God's Spirit would no longer "strive" with man (Adam), which is explained in Gen. 6:3.
Genesis 6:3 And the LORD said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also [is] flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years. (KJV)
The word "strive" could mean "dwell" with man (Adam), however it could not mean "dwell" in man (Adam). There is a difference in dwelling "with" and dwelling "in". This is very important to understand! However God still allowed Adam kind one hundred twenty years to receive and to make use of his Spirit. I believe the "breath" of God means that something eternal of God went into Adam, and therefore genetically also in all of Adam kind. The "generations of Adam" were genetically put into the body of Adam when it was created, therefore this gives all of Adam kind the capacity to be able to receive and use God's Spirit. This is important! When Adam was created, God breathed his Spirit within Adam so he would have the ability to live forever. However when Adam sinned God withdrew the eternal part of his breath to allow Adam to die spiritually as a result of his sin, and eventually also to die physically. Adam's sin caused God to withdraw his Spirit, which in turn caused the "spiritual" death of Adam. Therefore this death was genetically passed on to all of the unborn of the "generations of Adam". See Rom. 5:12.
Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (KJV)
All of Adam kind inherited a "spiritual" death which caused all of Adam kind to sin, which in turn of course, also caused a physical death. It is important to understand that God breathed his Spirit into Adam before Adam sinned, therefore all of Adam kind have genetically inherited the ability and the capacity to be able to receive the Spirit of God. Under the new covenant Christ again restored the "breath of life" by breathing the "Holy Ghost" on the apostles. See John 20:22.
John 20:22 And when he had said this, he breathed on [them], and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: (KJV)
By Christ breathing on the apostles caused the apostles to be inspired by the Holy Ghost ("breath" of God) to write the New Testament. Therefore it is by belief and obedience to the words of Jesus Christ, and the inspired writings of the apostles, that the "generations of Adam" can again have the Spirit put within them to again receive eternal life. This is my understanding of the "breath" of God, however I could be wrong with this explanation. How can we in these sinful mortal bodies really understand, and be able to explain with written words this precious knowledge that is outside the realm of the physical? It is extremely necessary for believing Adam kind Israelites to believe and obey the words of Jesus Christ, and the inspired writings of the apostles in order for them to be saved as "firstfruits". See James 1:18.
James 1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. (KJV)
It is with the word of truth (inspired writings of the prophets and apostles) that makes it possible for God to "begat" the firstfruits. The words "begotten", "born again", and "begat" are interesting words and will be discussed later. Notice in Rev. 14:4 that the "firstfruits" (saved Adam kind) unto God and the Lamb are redeemed from among men (unsaved Adam kind).
Revelation 14:4 These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, [being] the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. (KJV)
The term "firstfruits" imply a kind of harvest. Therefore these "firstfruits", or shall we say, the choice "crop" of souls are "harvested" from among the rest of the harvest. Apparently the firstfruits were "ripe" to be harvested (resurrected). However the rest of the harvest was not "ripe" to be a part of the first resurrection. This truth is very important to understand!
"Aw-dawm" Man and "En-oshe" Man
The word "man" found in the Old Testament is no. 0120 in Strong's Lexicon and this particular "man" is found five hundred fifty two times in the Old Testament. It is a Hebrew word from no. 0119, and it is pronounced as "aw-dawm". No. 119 is taken from Strong's Con. and means to show blood in the face, or flush and turn rosy.
0120 'adam {aw-dawm'} from 0119; TWOT - 25a; n m AV - man 408, men 121, Adam 13, person(s) 8, common sort + 07230 1, hypocrite 1; 552 1) man, mankind 1a) man, human being 1b) man, mankind (much more frequently intended sense in OT) 1c) Adam, first man 1d) city in Jordan valley
119 'adam (Adam'); to show blood (in the face), i.e. flush or turn rosy: KJV-- be (dyed, made) red (ruddy).Keep in mind, the biblical usage of the word "Adam" could be the same as "man" since it is the same word (no. 0120) and carries the same meaning. This meaning is in reference to man as "mankind" or "human being". However the "aw-dawm" mankind is actually Adam kind, or more correctly stated, the kind of man that came from Adam. This is very important! There is also another kind of man found in the Old Testament that is called the "eesh", or the "en-oshe" man . This "man" is found in the vast majority of times in the Old Testament, and it is no. 0376 in Strong's Lexicon. No. 0582 could also be used for this meaning.
0376 'iysh {eesh} contracted for 0582 [or perhaps rather from an unused root meaning to be extant]; TWOT - 83a; n m AV - man 1002, men 210, one 188, husband 69, any 27, misc 142; 1638
0582 'enowsh {en-oshe'} from 0605; TWOT - 136a; n m AV - man 520, certain 10, husbands 3, some 3, merchantmen 2, persons 2, misc 24; 564 1) man, mortal man, person, mankind 1a) of an individual 1b) men (collective) 1c) man, mankindThe "eesh", or the "en-oshe" man has somewhat a different meaning than the "aw-dawm" man in that it refers to man as mortal man. The "aw-dawm" man can also carry the meaning of mortal man, however "aw-dawm" man by implication also has the meaning of immortal man. Adam was created in the image and after the likeness of God, which is why the "aw-dawm" man has a spiritual side of him that is immortal. However since the fall of Adam, Adam's true descendants can legally in the context of scripture have the meaning of both the "eesh" man and the "aw-dawm" man; since Adam was now reduced to mortal flesh.
The Bible does make a difference between the "aw-dawm" man and the "eesh" man. It is necessary to see how each man is biblically used in relation to what is biblically known as the "beast". In the Old Testament whenever the phrase "man and beast" is found, it is always the "aw-dawm" man (no. 0120) that is mentioned with the "beast"; whenever this particular phrase is used. The Bible is very consistent with this theme, and this fact will reveal a profound truth to us. This statement, "man and beast" is simply saying by definition; "aw-dawm" man (mortal or immortal) and mortal "beast", and that is all it is saying! This is very important since it would not be biblically correct to include only "mortal" with "mortal" in the context of these particular scriptures, and the Bible is very consistent with this truth. Again I repeat, it is always found written as "aw-dawm" man and "beast", since it is comparing and making a difference with a certain "man" and "beast". Therefore the "eesh" man was never used in the phrase "man and beast", and I specify and put emphasis on the word "and". This is important! However the "eesh" (0376) or the "en-oshe" man is included with the "beast" in only two scriptures in the Bible, which are found in Exod. 11:7 and 19:13.Exodus 11:7 But against any of the children of Israel shall not a dog move his tongue, against man or beast: that ye may know how that the LORD doth put a difference between the Egyptians and Israel. (KJV)
Exodus 19:13 There shall not an hand touch it, but he shall surely be stoned, or shot through; whether [it be] beast or man, it shall not live: when the trumpet soundeth long, they shall come up to the mount. (KJV)It is very interesting that this phrase in these scriptures is worded "man or beast" and vise-versa, and not worded "man and beast". This is important since the word "or" is used instead of the word "and", which changes the intent of scripture. This would of course explain why the "eesh" man (not "aw-dawm" man) was used in these two verses. However the possibility of the "aw-dawm" man also being used in the context of "man or beast" is found in Jer. 32:43. It is the only scripture found in the Bible that the phrase "aw-dawm" man or "beast" is used. This "man" is no. 0120 and notice that the word "and" is not used.
Jeremiah 32:43 And fields shall be bought in this land, whereof ye say, [It is] desolate without man or beast; it is given into the hand of the Chaldeans. (KJV)
What are we to understand from these facts? It is evident that "aw-dawm" man can never mean "beast", however the "eesh" and "en-oshe" man could in some cases biblically mean "beast". This truth can be proved in several scriptures such as Gen. 9:5, and Jonah 3:8.
Genesis 9:5 And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it, and at the hand of man; at the hand of every man's brother will I require the life of man. (KJV)
Jonah 3:8 But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily unto God: yea, let them turn every one from his evil way, and from the violence that [is] in their hands. (KJV)Gen. 9:5 states that at the hand of every beast ("eesh" man if you will), and at the hand of "aw-dawm" man (no. 0120); and also at the hand of every "eesh" man's brother (no. 0376) would God require blood for the life of "aw-dawm" man (no. 0120). Is this a case where a "beast" has a brother? Keep in mind that it was also plainly stated that this "beast" has hands. In Jonah 3:8 it was possible for the "beast" to repent from the violence that was in his hands and cry mightily unto God. This scripture (Jonah 3:8) simply says what it means; which is that man (no. 0120) and "beast" ("aw-dawm" man and "eesh" man) both have hands; and both are able to repent and cry mightily unto God. In Lev. 18:23 is an example where an Israelite woman was forbidden to stand before the "beast" (the "eesh" man, if you will) to lie down with him (sexually). It is called "confusion".
Leviticus 18:23 Neither shalt thou lie with any beast to defile thyself therewith: neither shall any woman stand before a beast to lie down thereto: it [is] confusion. (KJV)
This "confusion" that is mentioned in this verse is no. 08397 in Strong's Lexicon, and apparently is taken from no. 01101. This word (no. 01101) is translated thirty seven times as "mingled", and refers to a perverted sexual sin that is in violation of nature or divine order.
08397 tebel {the'-bel} apparently from 01101; TWOT - 248d; n m AV - confusion 2; 2 1) confusion(violation of nature or divine order) 1a) perversion (in sexual sin)
01101 balal {baw-lal'} a primitive root; TWOT - 248; v AV - mingled 37, confound 2, anointed 1, mixed 1, give provender 1, tempered 1, non translated variant 1; 44 1) to mix, mingle, confuse, confound 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to mingle, confuse 1a2) to mix 1a3) to give provender, feed (animals) 1b) (Hithpoel) to mix oneself (among others) 1c) (Hiphil) to fade awayI do not believe that Lev. 18:23 is talking about a four-footed beast or an animal, since it is not likely that conception would occur that would cause this "confusion". I believe this "confusion" is caused by the sexual union of women of Adam kind with the "eesh" man. This sexual "violation of nature or divine order" (mingled) is also found in Ezra 9:2, 7. Notice this sin (mingled) is called "confusion of face".
Ezra 9:2 For they have taken of their daughters for themselves, and for their sons: so that the holy seed have mingled themselves with the people of [those] lands: yea, the hand of the princes and rulers hath been chief in this trespass. (KJV)
Ezra 9:7 Since the days of our fathers [have] we [been] in a great trespass unto this day; and for our iniquities have we, our kings, [and] our priests, been delivered into the hand of the kings of the lands, to the sword, to captivity, and to a spoil, and to confusion of face, as [it is] this day. (KJV)This is when the Israelites that were in captivity had "mingled" their holy seed (interracial marriage) with other people in other lands, and returned to Jerusalem with "confusion of face" (verse 7). This "confusion of face" is also found in Dan. 9:8.
Daniel 9:8 O Lord, to us [belongeth] confusion of face, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against thee. (KJV)
In Jer. 31:27 God stated that he was going to "sow" the Israelites with the seed of "aw-dawm" man and with the seed of "beast", or with the "eesh" man, if you will.
Jeremiah 31:27 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will sow the house of Israel and the house of Judah with the seed of man, and with the seed of beast (KJV).
It is important to understand the biblical meaning of the word "sow" in this scripture. It is no. 02232 in Strong's Lexicon, and means to scatter and sow actual seed for a yield or produce.
02232 zara` {zaw-rah'} a primitive root; TWOT - 582; AV - sow 47, yielding 3, sower 2, bearing 1, conceive 1, seed 1, set 1; 56 1) to sow, scatter seed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to sow 1a2) producing, yielding seed 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be sown 1b2) to become pregnant, be made pregnant 1c) (Pual) to be sown 1d) (Hiphil) to produce seed, yield seed
God actually "sowed" Israel, since God honored his covenant with Abraham in multiplying Israel's seed as the dust of the earth. See Gen. 13:16.
Genesis 13:16 And I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth: so that if a man can number the dust of the earth, [then] shall thy seed also be numbered. (KJV)
Jer. 31:27 does not say that God intended to "sow" the true Israelites in order for them to "mingle" or adulterate the holy seed with the seed of "aw-dawm" man and with the seed of "beast" ("eesh" man). However it would not have been a sin for the holy seed of Israel to marry with true Adamite seed. This verse is referring to when God divorced his people Israel and scattered them to other lands in punishment, and they truly were "sowed" among the seed of "aw-dawm" man and also among the seed of the "eesh" and the "en-oshe" man, which were of all nations. The word "with" the seed of man could be better translated "among" the seed of man, etc. Hopefully you will see my point. This truth of divorced and lost Israel is explained in detail in my booklet "Lost Israel and the Gentiles". Another example where the "eesh" man (no. 0376) is used is in Gen. 2:23. This simply means that Eve was taken out of Adam since Adam was her husband, and this was when she was called "Woman".
Genesis 2:23 And Adam said, This [is] now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. {Woman: Heb. Isha} {Man: Heb. Ish} (KJV)
If you will note by checking the meaning of no. 0376 again, the "eesh" man was translated "husband" sixty nine times in the Old Testament. This would explain why the "eesh" man was used in Gen. 2:23. However it is strange to refer to Eve as being taken out of the "eesh" man, instead of out of the "aw-dawm" (immortal) man. Keep in mind that Eve was taken out of Adam before he sinned and fell from his immortality, therefore the "eesh" man (no. 0376) simply does not fit with this scripture. I feel this example in Gen. 2:23 deserves more study as to why the translators did not use "aw-dawm" (immortal) man in this verse. It is also interesting that this particular "Woman" and "Man" are biblically capitalized in the context of this scripture.
After Adam had sinned and was a hundred and thirty years old he fathered a son named Seth, which was in Adam's (not God's) own likeness and after his image. See Gen. 5:3 and notice that this wording is reversed, and now reads "in his own likeness, after his image" instead of "in our image, after our likeness" as it reads in Gen. 1:26. I find it interesting as to why this phrase is worded different, and is now reversed as it applied to Seth.Genesis 5:3 And Adam lived an hundred and thirty years, and begat [a son] in his own likeness, after his image; and called his name Seth: (KJV)
Genesis 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. (KJV)It can correctly be said that the "generations of Adam" are now in the likeness and image of Seth, or it could also be said in the image of the "eesh" earthy man. This truth is explained in Eccl. 3:19-21, and 12:7. Study these verses very carefully.
Ecclesiastes 3:19-21 For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all [is] vanity. 20 All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. 21 Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth? (KJV)
Ecclesiastes 12:7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. (KJV)The sons of men (no. 0120) are the same as "beasts". They all have one breath (air) and die in the same manner as that of the "beast", and all turn back again to the earth (dust), therefore could be called "earthy". However there is a major difference between the sons of men and that of the "beast". It is true that fallen Adam kind was forced to have the same physical breath as that of the "beast" (verse 19). However Adam was given the "breath" of God when he was created, therefore this "breath" is eternal and belongs to God, and must be returned to God. It states in verses 21 and 12:7 that the spirit of man (no. 0120) at the death of the body goes "upward" and returns back to God. However the spirit of the "beast" goes "downward" back to the earth. What are we to understand from these scriptures? This simply means that the Adam kind creation came from God, and the "beast" creation came from the earth. Please understand that the Adam kind creation fell and was reduced to have the same kind of breath (air) that the "beast" creation has, which was quoted in Eccl. 3:19. There is a strong possibility that this "beast" that is talked about in these scriptures in Ecclesiastes is the "eesh" and "en-oshe" mortal man. However of course it could also include the four-footed animals which physically live and die the same way. Acts 11:6 and Rom. 1:23 mentions these four-footed "beasts".
Acts 11:6 Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. (KJV)
Romans 1:23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. (KJV)Why was it necessary to biblically specify these "beasts" as being four-footed beasts? These scriptures simply are implying that biblically speaking there can also be two-footed "beasts", which would of course take in account and include the "eesh" and the "en-oshe" mortal man. What we have learned so far is that the "aw-dawm" man can be biblically used to mean both mortal man and immortal man after the fall of Adam. However the "eesh" and the "en-oshe" man can be biblically used only to mean mortal man, and never immortal man. Also the "eesh" and the "en-oshe" man are biblically used in some cases to mean "beast". When I refer to Adam kind as immortal, it does not mean that Adam kind can not die spiritually and physically. It only means that Adam kind came from God, therefore have the capacity (genetically and spiritually built into them) to receive eternal life. This is why the "aw-dawn" man can be legally called the immortal man. This is very important to understand! The "eesh" man originated from the earth and is known as "earthly", and the "generations of Adam" in one aspect were reduced to this same "earthy" condition. This one aspect is that the "aw-dawn" man fell from his immortal condition, and became dependent on physical means for survival.
The "Second Adam"
Jesus Christ is called the "last Adam" and also the "second man" by the apostle Paul. 1 Cor. 15:45-47 are very important scriptures that are comparing the first Adam with the second Adam. Christ is referred to as the "last Adam" that was made a "quickening" spirit, however Christ is also called the "second man" (Adam).
1 Corinthians 15:45-47 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam [was made] a quickening spirit. 46 Howbeit that [was] not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. 47 The first man [is] of the earth, earthy: the second man [is] the Lord from heaven. (KJV)
Notice in verse 46 that Paul did not say that the first man was "spiritual". Notice how Paul states; "Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is "natural". Also notice in verse 47 that the first man is of the earth or "earthy". Notice how the word "is" is used to mean present tense. The first man originally was not "earthy" since he was able to live forever and was given the "breath" of God. The translators knew what Paul was referring to in verse 47, therefore they used the word "is" of the earth, etc., and not the word "was" as they did in verse 46; therefore making a difference. Keep in mind that Adam was created with conditional immortality as opposed to the "second Adam", which was God in the flesh. Therefore it was impossible for Christ to lose immortality as Adam did. Christ was made in the likeness of sinful flesh, therefore was able to condemn sin in the flesh as it states in Rom. 8:3. Notice it says that God sent his Son in the likeness of sinful flesh. It does not say that God sent his Son in sinful flesh. Please understand this simple truth!
Romans 8:3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: (KJV)
It could be said that Christ was in the likeness of sinful flesh in the way that Adam was created after the likeness of God, since the same word is used. Christ took on the likeness of what Adam had become (sinful flesh) as a result of his sin. Christ (who was God in the flesh) had no "earthy" sinful father, therefore Christ had to be born of a virgin; which made him in the likeness of (not in) sinful Adamite flesh. What is meant by Adam being made a "living soul", and what was this "natural" condition that Adam was created in? Please review 1 Cor. 15:45-47 again. The word "natural" in 1 Cor. 15:46 is no. 5591 in Strong's Lexicon.
5591 psuchikos {psoo-khee-kos'} from 5590; TDNT - 9:661,1342; adj AV - natural 4, sensual 2; 6 1) of or belonging to breath 1a) having the nature and characteristics of the breath 1a1) the principal of animal life, which men have in common with the brutes 1b) governed by breath 1b1) the sensuous nature with its subjection to appetite and passion
The word "soul" is no. 05315 in Strong's Lexicon, and has essentially the same meaning as "natural".
05315 nephesh {neh'-fesh} from 05314; TWOT - 1395a; n f AV - soul 475, life 117, person 29, mind15, heart 15, creature 9, body 8, himself 8, yourselves 6, dead 5, will 4, desire 4, man 3, themselves 3, any 3, appetite 2, misc 45; 751 1) soul, self, life, creature, person, appetite, mind, living being, desire, emotion, passion
Adam was made a "living soul" and a breathing man with a "sensuous" nature subject to experience appetite, desire, emotion and passion; as these meanings explain. However Adam was not "spiritual" as the apostle Paul explained in 1 Cor. 15:46. The word "spiritual" is no. 4152 in Strong's Lexicon, and this word could simply be summed up to mean; to be filled with and governed by the Spirit of God (3b).
4152 pneumatikos {pnyoo-mat-ik-os'} from 4151; TDNT - 6:332,876; adj AV - spiritual 26; 26 1) relating to the human spirit, or rational soul, as part of the man which is akin to God and serves as his instrument or organ 1a) that which possesses the nature of the rational soul 2) belonging to a spirit, or a being higher than man but inferior to God 3) belonging to the Divine Spirit 3a) of God the Holy Spirit 3b) one who is filled with and governed by the Spirit of God 4) pertaining to the wind or breath; windy, exposed to the wind, blowing
Adam was the first "natural" man and also not governed by the Spirit of God, therefore he fell into sin. Adam did not know and experience evil until he chose to "eat" of "good and evil". However he willingly chose to commit this sin since he was not deceived. See 1 Tim. 2:14.
1 Timothy 2:14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. (KJV)
I believe Adam did a very noble and self-sacrificing act by committing this sin. However it was nevertheless a sin in the incredible magnitude of causing Adam and all of Adam's descendants to die spiritually and physically. Adam was also given dominion over the six-day creation of a restored earth that had become without "form and void" before Adam was created. Therefore Adam's sin had far-reaching effects on the earth itself! It is very important to read my booklet "The Seventh Day" to understand the severe sacrifice it took to restore not only the "generations of Adam", but also the earth itself! Adam was not "spiritual", and therefore not governed by the Spirit of God. I do however believe that Adam was given the Spirit in the sense of enabling him to live forever. It is very important to understand that Adam and all of Adam kind had the potential to live forever in this "natural" condition as it explains in Gen. 3:22, 24.
Genesis 3:22 And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever: (KJV)
Genesis 3:24 So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life. (KJV)Consider what is being stated in these verses. Adam had become as God in that he now also knew good and evil. However he could not be allowed to eat of the "tree of life" (second Adam)and live forever until the sacrifice for his sin was made. Adam was created a living soul that had sensuous feelings and passions that are common with all of fallen Adam kind, however with one exception. Before Adam sinned Adam did not know and experience "good and evil" in the way that all of fallen Adam kind have experienced good and evil. It was only a matter of time for Adam to make that "good and evil" choice, therefore the effects of Adam's choice was genetically passed on to the "generations of Adam". All of Adam kind were then born into an evil world spiritually scarred with the effects of Adam's choice. However this was the only way that the Heavenly Father could win the love of his children. This is how universal love works, since it has to come by choice and sacrifice on both the Father's part and on the part of his children!
On the Father's part it was by choosing to send the second Adam (his Son) to be the sacrifice for Adam's sin to repair the damage done by the first Adam. On fallen Adam-kind's part it is by choosing to simply believe, and being thankful for that supreme sacrifice! To demonstrate this thankfulness is to be obedient to the words of the second Adam (Christ), and by being obedient to the instructions of the apostles. To the degree that Adam kind is thankful is the degree that Adam kind will present their bodies, and to offer themselves as living and spiritual sacrifices to build a "spiritual house" for God . See Rom. 12:1 and 1 Pet. 2:5.
Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service. (KJV)
1 Peter 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. (KJV)To build a spiritual house is to become "spiritual", which is being governed by the Spirit of God (as we have seen) to help overcome the sinful flesh that Adam kind has inherited. Also being thankful is to reject the religious "fantasies" that the world's churches will so easily accept and obey. The "generations of Adam" were all born in deceived world with it's many false gods that has taken them away from the one true God. It is therefore very important to have a child-like willingness in believing and understanding correct doctrine, which will identify the one true God. It is simply a matter of attitude that the Father wants to see from his children!
The "Born From Above" Birth
Please understand that the "generations of Adam" at the first were not designed to be born spiritually scarred and subject to aging, pain, sickness and death. The Father wants his children to have the birth that they were originally designed to have. If Adam had not sinned, God's children would be born into the kingdom of God and would never experience evil. Therefore God's children would not be able to determine and know of a beautiful thing called choice, which is based on knowing and understanding both good and evil! God's children are destined to be born into this evil world. Therefore God has provided a way for his children to legally have the birth that they were designed to have; plus they would have experienced and known the difference in good and evil. This is very important to understand! This "new birth" is explained by Jesus Christ himself in John 3:3-5. This process of the "new birth" is also addressed in my booklet "Repentance and Obedience", and should be reviewed again if it has already been read.
John 3:3-5 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and [of] the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. (KJV)
Christ made a very serious statement regarding this "new birth". In verse 3 Christ said, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God". In verse 5 Christ added more information to this statement, and explained that a man (Adam) must be born of water (which is baptism) and of the Spirit to enter into the kingdom of God. It was not by God's design and intent that his children be born in this sinful condition and be subject to aging, pain, sickness and death! It was done by Adam's choice, which God allowed for a purpose! The waters of baptism in Christ's name will "wash away" the effects of Adam's choice, as it plainly shows in Acts 22:16.
Acts 22:16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. (KJV)
The canceled Adamic sin allows the Spirit to do the work of the "new birth". However a baptized believer must be led by the Spirit in order for the "new birth" to be a legal reality. The word "again" in John 3:3 is no. 509 in Strong's Lexicon and means "from above", or more important; "from the first or from the beginning".
509 anothen {an'-o-then} from 507; TDNT - 1:378,63; adv AV - from above 5, top 3, again 2, from the first 1, from the beginning 1, not tr 1; 13 1) from above, from a higher place 1a) of things which come from heaven or God 2) from the first, from the beginning, from the very first 3) anew, over again
This is very important to understand since this takes us back to the creation of Adam! It is a kind of birth that the children of God were designed to have from the first, or from the beginning when Adam was created! This is not something mysterious or hard to understand! However many sincere believers have chosen the road to "fantasy land" with this important truth, as they also have with other truths. Sincere deceived people would rather "feel good" with an emotional experience brought about by an emotional message given by a deceived minister. These very sincere people will then proudly proclaim that they are now "born again"! The true "born again" experience is the work of the Spirit of God, and it is a spiritual work that fallen Adam kind is not aware of. This is the very reason that Christ told Nicodemus not to "marvel" about this "born from above" birth, since it is a spiritual work; and it is spirit! See John 3:6-8.
John 3:6-8 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. 8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. (KJV)
Christ made it very plain to Nicodemus that this spiritual work is like the wind, because every one born of the Spirit cannot tell where it comes from or where it goes (verse 8). Which means that Adam kind is simply not aware of it! Christ did not say the Spirit was the wind. Some sincere people of today have chosen "fantasy" over logic into believing that the Spirit is the wind, or simply the air that we breath. The words "born", "begat" and "begotten" are all found in 1 John 5:1.
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)
These words are all the same Greek word (gennao). It is no. 1080 in Strong' Lexicon, and actually means to be born, bring forth, or to be delivered.
1080 gennao {ghen-nah'-o} from a variation of 1085; TDNT - 1:665,114; v AV - begat 49, be born 39, bear 2, gender 2, bring forth 1, be delivered 1, misc 3; 97
However it is obvious that this Greek word has the meaning of a spiritual birth, and this truth is explained in John 1:12-13. Notice that Christ gives the power for believing Adamites to become the sons of God, however they must receive Christ and believe on his name.
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)Sonship is restored to believing Adamites by the work of the Spirit of God. This is made possible by a spiritual birth that does not come by blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man. Flesh and blood, and the will of man is out of the equation for this "new birth" to take place. However it is definitely in the will of man to choose or not to choose in receiving Christ, and to believe on his name! John 1:12-13 is simply saying that physical sexual union (will of the flesh), and the physical birth that follows is not the kind of birth that is called "born of God". Notice in verse 13 that God's family were "born of God" (past tense). Christ plainly stated that this same spiritual birth must be repeated (or born again). Adam was called a son of God, as it shows in Luke 3:38.
Luke 3:38 Which was [the son] of Enos, which was [the son] of Seth, which was [the son] of Adam, which was [the son] of God. (KJV)
However Adam lost the status of sonship when he sinned, because it took the sacrifice of the second Adam to give sonship back again to Adam's true descendants. This "new birth" which brings sonship again to the "generations of Adam" is also found in 1 Pet. 1:23.
1 Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. (KJV)
Notice Peter stated that to be "born again" is of an incorruptible seed, which comes by the Word of God. Believing and obeying the Bible restores this "seed" that was created in Adam to bring forth God's children. However when Adam sinned this seed was made corruptible. Fallen Adam kind really do need to be born from "above" with the incorruptible seed, that they had at the first or in the beginning. This "seed" will be legally restored by the Spirit upon belief and repentance, and then baptism. This is my understanding of the doctrine of the "new birth", however I could be wrong in some details in explaining the term "born again" in this manner. This is a very interesting doctrine, however since we are in these fallen sinful bodies it would be impossible to understand this truth in its fullness.
"Naked" Sinful Flesh
This sinful flesh that the "generations of Adam" have inherited from birth is our own worse enemy! It must be in subjection to the law of God in order to be led by the Spirit of God. The following scriptures provide answers to the problem of our sinful flesh, and it has to do with properly understanding the intent of the law of God. Read and study Rom. 7:22, 8:7, 8:14 and 2 Cor. 4:16.
Romans 7:22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: (KJV)
Romans 8:7 Because the carnal mind [is] enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. (KJV)
Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (KJV)
2 Corinthians 4:16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward [man] is renewed day by day. (KJV)The apostle Paul stated, "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God". Paul also stated that he delighted in the law of God after the "inward" man. It is by obeying the law of God that believing Israelites can keep the "outward" man in subjection, therefore the "inward" man is renewed day by day. It is the "inward" man that must be built (morally and also by correct doctrine), since the "inward" man is what must come forth at the resurrection. The "outward" man is the mind of carnal flesh that is in enmity (hatred) against God (Rom. 8:7), and does not want to be in subjection to the law of God. This is the "man" that will perish by the daily renewing of the "inward man" (2 Cor. 4:16). Those that serve the "outward" man with its lusts will not endure sound doctrine. See 2 Tim. 4:3.
2 Timothy 4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; (KJV)
Therefore they love to hear (having itching ears) "teachers" that will tell them how "good" they are, and that it is useless to try to overcome the "outward" man. These "teachers" as a rule will teach that the law of God is "done away", therefore all that is really necessary for Christians is to "love Jesus". However these same people with "itching" ears do not like to hear how they are to demonstrate their "love for Jesus". The fallen sinful flesh does not want to keep the commandments of God, however that is how Christians are to demonstrate their "love for Jesus" as it explains in John 14:15, 21.
John 14:15, 21 If ye love me, keep my commandments. 21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. (KJV)
Those that keep the commandments of God shall be loved of Christ and also loved of the Father, and Christ will return his love by actually manifesting himself (Word of God) to those that keep his commandments (verse 21). The truth of the Bible will be manifested to those that keep the commandments of God, since Christ is the Word of God. See John 1:14.
John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (KJV)
This struggle to overcome the sinful flesh is not only a moral struggle, but also a struggle to "try the spirits", whether they are of God. In other words, having a discernment of certain spirits in knowing truth from error. Study 1 John 4:1 and 4:6.
1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (KJV)
1 John 4:6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. (KJV)The so-called Christian world, influenced by many false prophets and fallen spirits, has produced a number of false belief systems which are all based on disregarding and not confronting the lusts of sinful flesh. This is why they will heap to themselves "teachers" as we have seen in 2 Tim. 4:3. This truth and principle is very important to understand! The spirit of truth will always hear and believe the truth concerning the problem of fallen Adamite sinful flesh. The spirit of error will always reject the truth concerning this problem, and generally will also reject the solution to the problem of sinful flesh. If we would analyze the false belief systems of the so-called Christian churches of today, it will become evident that the Adam kind worshiping people are determined to overlook or justify the problem of their sinful flesh. This is because it is so easy and natural for Adamites to serve their fallen sinful flesh.
What they are deceived into believing concerning spiritual knowledge and truth, is based on the pulls and desires of the Adamite fallen sinful flesh. Every false doctrine is designed to overlook and disregard the problem of the "outward" man. Every true and sound doctrine will confront and deal with the fallen Adamite flesh. If we have the child-like humility to simply believe the truth concerning our fallen flesh, and then respond to keep the law of God; we are putting off the "old" man with his deeds and putting on the "new" man. See Col. 3:8-10.
Colossians 3:8-10 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; 10 And have put on the new [man], which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: (KJV)
Study verse 10 very carefully! This "new" man is renewed in knowledge after the image of Christ, which created the "new" man. It is Christ that creates the "new" man after Christ's own image! Therefore by implication, the "new" man is legally no longer in the image of the "earthy". The "new" man is legally now in the image and after the likeness of God in the same manner as the first man (Adam) was when he was not "ashamed". Adam and Eve were in bodies that they were designed to be in, therefore they were "naked"; however they were not "ashamed". See Gen. 2:25 and 3:7.
Genesis 2:25 And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed. (KJV)
Genesis 3:7 And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they [were] naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. (KJV)After Adam and Eve had sinned they died spiritually and lost the glory of God's image and likeness, and they now knew that they were "naked"; therefore they were now "ashamed" of their bodies. Their bodies became "earthy", and the glory that they were created with had turned to the same flesh and blood as all the animals and "beasts" which Adam had named. Adam was then forbidden to eat of the "tree of life", which would have caused him to live forever in an unforgiven condition; as we have previously seen in Gen. 3:22, 24. To live forever without a "remedy" and a sacrifice for the Adamic sin simply would not be possible in God's divine order. Adam knew what was required for a temporary "remedy" for his sin since he knew what had happened to his body. It was Adam, and not Moses, that started the system of blood and fat animal sacrificial offerings through the priesthood of Melchisedec, which is mentioned in the book of Hebrews. Starting with Abel, Adam instituted this priesthood to provide for Godly men the temporary "remedy" for Adam's sin. See Gen. 4:4 and Heb. 6:20.
Genesis 4:4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: (KJV)
Hebrews 6:20 Whither the forerunner is for us entered, [even] Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. (KJV)Christ who is and was the "tree of life" was made a high priest forever after the same intent and order of this Melchisedec priesthood. However Christ was the true remedy and the true sacrifice for the Adamic sin, therefore the way of the "tree of life" was restored. Christ has made it legally possible for the "new" man to partake of the "tree of life" after eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil; which Adam could not do! The "new" man is no longer "naked" and "afraid" to face the "outward" man's tragic condition, and the "new" man will not "hide" from God in working out the salvation of his sinful condition. This "naked" condition is nothing more than shameful sinful flesh that the "generations of Adam" have inherited. A holy and righteous Heavenly Father will not look on this "naked" and shameful condition that his beloved children have inherited. This "naked" condition that the "generations of Adam" have inherited can now be legally "covered" with special "clothing" from heaven. Read 2 Cor. 5:2-4 very carefully, since this is exactly what the apostle Paul is talking about!
2 Corinthians 5:2-4 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: 3 If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. 4 For we that are in [this] tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. (KJV)
In Jude 23 it states that those who have their resurrected glorified bodies are to "save" and pull other saints out of a certain "fire", and to even hate the fleshly "garment" that some saints are still clothed with.
Jude 23 And others save with fear, pulling [them] out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. (KJV)
These are believing saints that were apparently still "clothed" with fallen Adamite flesh, and they found themselves in this "fire". It is interesting that they were still found worthy to be saved out of this "fire", however not without being "cleansed" by this "fire". Understand this truth! Rev. 3:18 is a call to repentance for saints to be "clothed" in white raiment so that the shame of their "nakedness" does not appear for Christ to see.
Revelation 3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and [that] the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. (KJV)
Also in Rev. 3:4 there were a few in the Sardis Church that were found worthy to walk with Christ, since they had not defiled their "garments" of white raiment.
Revelation 3:4 Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. (KJV)
What are we to understand from these scriptures, and what do these "garments" of white raiment represent? This type of "clothing" could be called "garments" of salvation that will "cover" the nakedness of sinful Adamite flesh. A holy and righteous God will not look at "naked" sinful Adamite flesh! It is the "righteousness" of saints that will "clothe" them with fine, clean and white linen that will "cover" their "naked" Adamic flesh. See Rev. 19:8.
Revelation 19:8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. (KJV)
This righteousness can only be accomplished in having a child-like attitude and willingness to keep the commandments of God, which will "cover" the naked sinful Adamite flesh. This is the reason that without repentance, fallen Adamite-kind will "perish"! This statement by Jesus Christ is repeated twice in Luke 13:3, 5.
Luke 13:3, 5 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. 5 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. (KJV)
The proper understanding of the word "perish" is addressed in my booklet, "Life and Death". It is a matter of having a simple child-like attitude of obedience, since it is not possible for the "outward" man to keep God's spiritual laws in perfection. This "naked" Adamic sinful flesh has called for and caused the suffering and cruel death of God's only begotten son, Jesus Christ!
The Destiny of Adam Man
It is very important to understand that Adam and all of Adam kind were at one time given the eternal "breath" of God, therefore the conscious spirits of these people will forever exist. Jesus Christ shed his righteous blood for every Israelite that genetically came from Adam, and God is not willing that any of his children should "perish"; but that all of his children should come to repentance (2 Pet. 3:9).
2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (KJV)
However tragically the vast majority of God's children have rejected Christ, and through unbelief and spiritual "fantasies" have made a mockery of the shed blood of Christ. It is very important to understand that it is not a question of the power of Christ's shed blood being able to save every last Israelite from perishing, which it no doubt can! The correct question that needs to be asked; will every Israelite believe on the shed blood, repent of sin, and be baptized in name of Christ, and will they love and follow the truth of God? Biblically speaking, these are the conditions that are required for the shed blood of Christ to be effective; and for Adam kind Israelites to be saved as "firstfruits". I do not understand the ultimate destiny of believing Israelites that will come up in the world (age) to come, since they cannot be called "firstfruits". Israelites (present and future) that do not believe on Christ shall not see life, but will have the wrath of God "abiding" on them (John 3:36).
John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. (KJV)
The word "abideth" in this verse is no. 3306 in Strong's Lexicon, and has the meaning of remaining, continuing and enduring; and I might add enduring forever.
3306 meno {men'-o} a root word; TDNT - 4:574,581; AV - abide 61, remain 16, dwell 15, continue 11, tarry 9, endure 3, misc 5; 120
I believe the wrath of God is a punishment that will continue and be consciously felt forever! The word "everlasting" is the same Greek word that is used for both the words "life" and "punishment" in Matt. 25:46.
Matthew 25:46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. (KJV)
Therefore biblically speaking, the "punishment" will endure for conscious Adamite spirits as long as "life eternal" will endure. "Everlasting" (no. 166) really means "forever", as it explains in Strong's Lexicon.
166 aionios {ahee-o'-nee-os} from 165; TDNT - 1:208,31; adj AV - eternal 42, everlasting 25, the world began + 5550 2, since the world began + 5550 1, for ever 1; 71 1) without beginning and end, that which always has been and always will be 2) without beginning 3) without end, never to cease, everlasting
This meaning (without beginning and end) also shows that the term "everlasting" cannot be determined in the method of "time" as we know and understand "time". "Eternal life" therefore is outside the realm of time and space. The ultimate destiny for believing and overcoming Adam kind Israelites in this age, is an eternal truth that we cannot comprehend or explain in these fallen bodies. We can only read and believe what the Bible tells us. What is the ultimate purpose and plan that the Father has for his children? Heb. 2:6-8 has important keys that explain what God has in mind for Adam man. Verse 6 again asks this profound question; "What is man, that thou art mindful of him?". The following verses will answer the question as to why God is mindful of Adam man.
Hebrews 2:6-8 But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that thou visitest him? 7 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: 8 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing [that is] not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.(KJV)
Adam man is crowned with glory and honor, and was set over the works of God's hands (verse 7). To put it another way, Adam man was set (crowned) to rule over God's creation! In verse 8 it states that God has put all things in subjection under Adam-man's feet, and he left nothing that is not put under him! At the resurrection, we will have our vile bodies changed to be fashioned in the same glory that Christ's glorious body has. See Phil. 3:21.
Philippians 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. (KJV)
To be an actual glorified son of God with real immortal bodies, is to have a power and a glory that cannot be understood or explained in our sinful fallen condition. The Bible tells us that the creation itself is expecting and waiting to be delivered from the bondage of corruption by the manifestation (resurrection) of the sons of God. Read and believe what is being stated in Rom. 8:18-21!
Romans 8:18-21 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time [are] not worthy [to be compared] with the glory which shall be revealed in us. 19 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. 20 For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected [the same] in hope, 21 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. (KJV)
The resurrected glorified sons of God will deliver and save a creation that was made subject to vanity, and is in the bondage of corruption. Consider the upheavals of volcanoes and earthquakes. Also consider the imbalance of weather patterns which bring massive floods, drought, hurricanes, and tornadoes; which testify to the fact that something is not quite right with "mother nature". An angelic rebellion that happened to the world before Adam is the reason that God was not willing to restore a perfect creation. However the restored creation was declared as "very good". See Gen. 1:31.
Genesis 1:31 And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, [it was] very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day. (KJV)
Adam was given dominion over this earth to maintain divine order to a "very good" creation that depended on Adam's rule to stay "very good"! However when Adam sinned and disqualified himself to rule, Adam and all of Adam kind fell and became trapped into the same vanity and bondage of corruption that the earth is now in. This truth is very important to understand! The destiny of Adam man is to rule and to eventually bring new heavens and a new earth as it states in 2 Pet. 3:13.
2 Peter 3:13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. (KJV)
In Conclusion
Paul states in Rom. 8:32, that since God did not even spare his own Son, therefore he will with Christ freely give us all things. God has put all things under the feet of Christ, and all things are then given to the Church, as it explains in Eph. 1:22.
Romans 8:32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? (KJV)
Ephesians 1:22 And hath put all [things] under his feet, and gave him [to be] the head over all [things] to the church, (KJV)Christ is working in his Church, and is preparing and training the saints to rule! The Church is made up of members that are the members of the actual glorified body of Christ. This truth is explained in my booklet, "What is the Church?". The members of the body of Christ are to function as one body with no division, and are to guard themselves to not have ill feelings of resentment, envy, and bitterness toward each other. The members of Christ must not allow little offenses to hinder the function and purpose of the Church! If members refuse to make amends and do not resolve these little differences, then they are carrying these harmful feelings toward Christ! It is also very important to guard against the "emotional fantasies" and "distractions" that are common place among the world's denominational churches.
Keep in mind this is a deceived world which has its own churches that are not interested in confronting and overcoming the problem of sinful flesh. It is very important to mentally reject any teaching that attempts to overlook or justify sinful Adamite flesh. We have to trust the Bible, and we must have the child-like innocence to simply believe what it says; and then follow its teachings. It does not mean that we have to understand all the details. It is also a must for sincere truth-seeking believers to seek regular assembly and fellowship with others of like mind, since this is where and who Christ is working with. The creation itself is waiting and expecting the manifestation (resurrection) of the sons of God, which is the Church! The purpose of the Church is to prepare believers to become sons of God, which is explained in my booklet "What is the Church?".
All that really matters in this life is for saints to follow the truth of the Bible, and to help build the Church; and there must be commitment in reaching out in wisdom to others in a deceived world. We must be able to explain real saving knowledge to those that truly want to know. Many Christians are "comfortable" in their beliefs, therefore proper discretion should be taken to avoid these type of people. Our daily choices in life must be based on the truth about fallen sinful flesh, and how to overcome the "outward" man. We must get real with our Creator and acknowledge our helpless sinful condition, and then do something about it! God help us to become living sacrifices, and may our prayers be as one mind together in achieving the purpose of our existence; and the awesome destiny that is waiting for us!
Questions or comments?... Email: wickey777@verizon.net