Some specific events of today(Nov 13, 1997) in Biblical prophecy:

Iraq(prophetic "Edom") is rebuilding(Mal 1:4) and may well be preparing biological weapons as the Un team suspects(Ezek 5:2&12) because Biblical prophecy indicates the INITIAL deadly strike on Jerusalem will result in 1/3 dying of pestilence.

The Middle East Peace treaty(Oslo Accord) has come in effect(Isa 28:14-15) but is not yet broken uttterly(verses 18-19).

When Jesus was explaining the signs to come at the latter end of the age(His coming/Great tribulations) He gave us a sign-the "lesson of the fig tree".

(NIV)Matt 24:32"Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. 33Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it(Or he) is near, right at the door. 34I tell you the truth, this generation (Or race )will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened.

Earlier He had cursed a fig tree, and it withered. Matt 21:19 Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, "May you never bear fruit again!" Immediately the tree withered.

Even earlier He had related this parable: Luke 13:6Then he told this parable: "A man had a fig tree, planted in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it, but did not find any. 7So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, `For three years now I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven't found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?' 8" `Sir,' the man replied, `leave it alone for one more year, and I'll dig around it and fertilize it. 9If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.' "

We find the whole House of Israel symbolized as a vineyard: (NKJ)Hos 10:7The vineyard of the LORD Almighty is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah are His pleasant plant.

We find the "men of Judah" symbolized as figs: Jer 24:4Then the word of the LORD came to me: 5"This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: `Like these good figs, I regard as good the exiles from Judah, whom I sent away from this place to the land of the Babylonians.B

Therefore, symbolically the whole House of Israel if the vineyard and the FIG TREE is the house of Judah. What does this mean?

When Messiah(Jesus) spoke the parable of finding no fruit on the fig tree(Judah) for three years He was speaking of His last ministry and indicated Judah would remain a little longer. When He spoke to the fig tree(Judah) and caused it to wither He indicated it would cease, which Judea did many centuries ago.

When He points to the lesson of the fig tree connected to the time of the end He is indicating the fig tree(Judah) will again start to put out shoots, which happened in May of 1948. At that point He tells us that "summer is near" and "He is right at the door". At this point , May 1948, the "seven weeks", that is forty nine years, of Dan 9 begin counting again. Isaac Newton also recognized that these "seven weeks" were to occur after the last coming in his interpretation of Daniel. It does not take a mathematical genius to figure little time remains.

Eliyahu

The "seventy weeks" continues until the Kingdom is established(Dan 9:24).

Two time frames are involved in this seventy week period:

One is for the NEXT coming(as the King): Know and understand this, from the issuing of the order to rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed one, the RULER (emphasis mine)comes, there will be seven sevens and sixty two sevens-(Dan 9:25). [The sixty two weeks as counted by God expired in 31 A.D. as Messiah fulfilled the last coming/ministry].

One is for the LAST coming(as the Lamb): After the sixty two sevens the Anointed One will be cut off and have nothing.(Dan 9:26)

He will confirm a covenant(of ministry-symbolic of the entire week of Unleavened bread-unleavened bread representing divine instruction) with many for one week(seven years) .In the middle of the week He will put an end to sacrifice and offerings-(symbolized by the midst of the feast "wavesheaf" of Unleavened bread that Sunday, Dan 9:27).

Therefore half of the remaining week(seven years) of ministry remains and will be fulfilled through the two witnesses during the Day of the Lord/Tribulations of 3 1/2 year duration.

The other seven weeks(49) years are even now being fulfilled since the establishment of Israel(Judea) in 1948. We have precious little time, as one can see. Probably about eighteen months or less from now(Oct 1997) according to the exact dates and Jewish calendrical computation.

To be continued with replacement material-please download if you would like to retain.

This concerns Mal 4:6 and Zech 4 and the interpretation thereof:

Mal 4:6:symbolic Elijah the prophet is to prepare the way for Messiah. The "fathers" are the Jews and the "children" are the Christians. These two groups represent the two "olive trees of Zech 4. The "curse" is the Great Tribulations(and other terms). This reconciliation of acceptance and brotherhood/sisterhood of these two groupsof Bible believers(Jews and Christians) if effected will institute the Messianic Kingdom and true peace in Jerusalem and the entire earth. To ignore it will bring the fiery trial on the world, first to Judah(Ezek 5:8-9, 4:3) as a the "SIGN" of Luke 21, Mark 13, and Matt 24 & Ezek 3:17-27. Next the fire spreads to all Israel(U.S. led western nations=revived Babylon) according to Ezek 5:4, and then the entire world(Luke 21:35). As God breaks the Abrahamic Covenant(first staff of Zech 11:10) which also removes Judah's protection (Eze 5:1, Isa 22:8, Lam 2:8) and the bond/unity(second staff Zech 11:14) between Judah(Jews) and Israel(western nations) creating a rift which will open the door to the invasion and the terrible desolation of Jerusalem and Judea by the four Arab attackers(Iraq, Iran, Jordan, and the Palestinians). This initial coming Jerusalem attack and spread of the fire to the whole house of Israel is called by God a "singular/unique" disaster because this sequential attack on Judah then involving Israel has not happened since the split between Judah and Israel of some 2700 years ago.

More in Online Prophet segment.

Zech 4: Zerubabbel is Messiah(Jesus Christ). The seven lamps are the seven churches of Rev 2 & 3. The plumb line is the Elijah. The two branches are the two witnesses(one Elijah figure+one Moses figure=two witnesses).

Bobby Rich 68 W. W. Scott Road Batesville, MS 38606

Some topics: Blood of God, Recent, current and future Biblical events. Two Covenants.Beast and False Prophet. Abrahamic Covenant/Manifest destiny. Seventy Weeks of Daniel 9. Judah and Israel. Lost Tribes of Israel. Prophetic codewords. Return to Torah trend. Lesson of the Fig Tree. Thursday Crucifixion(Passover Nidan 14) and Sunday(wavesheaf) Resurrection of The Messiah. Reuniting of Judah & Israel and "remnant" saved from the tribulations, Judah Mourns.

Oh Lord our God, upon whom we re-ly, from the day we're born to the very day we die. Look down on me, and tender mercy show, teach me Your way, so I may know.

(CHORUS) Let me walk, right there by Your side, Never let them say, that I have You denied. With us You have, a new covenant made and with Blood of God, You have our ransom paid.

If we go on to sin, with sacrifice so sweet, Your name we trample, right beneath our feet. If we should die, and then be clad in clay, we know its but a blink until our redemption day.

(chorus)

When I consider Your great power and Your enduring love then goes my heart, to the highest heaven above Your angels know the ones who are Your sheep from the highest mountain, to the greatest deep.

These great things are so easy to lose while I'm walking about in these old human shoes.

(chorus)

When the last trumpet blows, my heart shall leap that day at the judgment of fate, for this creature of clay Oh Lord our God-for this I pray That I may stand, on that great indelible day.

Concerning events leading up to and into the Great Tribulations which is also known as, "the Day of the Lord", "Lord's Day", "Coming of The Lord", "Times of the Gentiles", "Jacob's Trouble","Days of vengeance", "Last Days", "end of the age", and "latter days".

From the "Elijah to come(Mal 4:5 & Matt 17:11)", which is the "plumb line"(Zech 4:10), the "watchman"(Ezekiel), the "latter rain"(Joel 2:23), the "open door" and "two edged sword"(Rev), & the "final Teacher of Righteousness"(Dead Sea Scrolls). The prophet is described in Biblical Psalms 35, 37 through 43, 45:1, 88 & other Scriptures and the Dead Sea Scrolls by John the Baptist. Preparing the way(Isa 40:3) for the future coming of The Lord.

Hidden interpretation of Zech 4 and Mal 4:

The fact that Zech 4 and Mal 4 are both pretribulations Scripture should be evident to most believers.

Mal 4:6:

The "fathers" are Jews, the "children" are Christians, and the "curse" is the Great Tribulations. This interpretation comes by the holy spirit but logic dictates this is the only accurate rendering.

Zech 4:2

The "lampstand of solid gold" represents all Bible believers of today.

The "seven lamps" are the seven churches of Rev 2 & 3, among the believers and between the two olive trees.

vs 3

The "two olive trees" are the Bible believing Jews and Christians of today.

vs 6-9

"Zerubbabel" is Messiah Jeshua/Jesus Christ, God of both Old(Tanakh) and New Testaments, both of which are in effect today. The Old Covenant is perpetual though passing away(until the last enemy death is vanquished) and was not abolished. The New Covenant made with the Blood of God is a lighter burden, making the Old obsolete(but not void) and both are in effect now.

vs 12

The "two olive branches" are the two witnesses of Rev 11(one Elijah plus one Moses figure=two witnesses). These two shall be given power for their 3 1/2 year testimony shortly before the beast leader receives authority and shall both be killed and raised after the sixth trumpet(final battle) and before the seventh trumpet(bringing in the Kingdom).The opportunity of Mal 4:6 represents the possibility of bringing in the Kingdom peacefully and averting the tribulations. The condition is:

Turn the hearts of the Jews to the Christians and the hearts of the Christians to the Jews(believers that is). If we can put aside our differences and care for and accept each other this calamity can be avoided and the Messianic Kingdom of God ushered in peacefully. Nothing else will suffice except for all people to turn to God. Nothing else save Mal 4:6 stands between us and the Great Tribulations/Jacob's Trouble(etc).

Can we do this? Much is at stake. If not, we may expect the terrible events of the fiery ordeal which will follow.

"I(The Lord) have held My peace a long time, I have been still and restrained Myself. Now I will cry like a woman in labor, I will pant and gasp at once. I will lay waste the mountains and hills-(Isa 42:14-15)". In the spirit of the book of Malachi, Psalms 50, and Matt 24, Luke 12 & 21, Zeph, Hab & Mark 13.

In order not to bore the reader I shall tell you now quite plainly what is next to occur without much delay on the world scene in Biblical prophecy:

There will be a harsh renewed flareup of conflict in the Balkans(former Yugoslavia) which will lead to a concentrated multinational intervention. Many of the peoples(known as prophetic "ELAM", see Jer 49 concerning Elam) will be forced to flee and relocate in various nations and their leadership will be put out of power. This action corresponds to the "north country" action of Zech 6:6&8 and appropriate verses of Jer 49.

The prophecy of Zechariah which has already occurred is:

(1).The Soviet demise and fall of the Berlin Wall(Zech 1:8-11).

(2). Acknowledgement of the seven churches and two witnesses(Zech 3:9, 4:1-3 & 10) in place.

(3). "Flying scroll" represents the vision of the end prepared(Zech 5:1-4). You are reading part of it at this moment.

(4). Woman in a basket represents the wickedness of this "Babylonian" system ruled by Satan(King of Tyre) as being full(Zech 5:5-11).

(5) . Four chariots:The yet a bit future flareup and forced peace in the Balkans will be the fourth sequential prophetic event of Zechariah leading up to the INITIAL(AND MOST HORRIBLE) tribulations attack on JERUSALEM by FOUR NATIONS(Iraq, Iran, Jordan, and the Palestinians which are prophetic "Edom", "Moab", "Ammon" and "Philistia" resp., Ezek 25). See Zech 1:18-19, and for the retaliation by the "craftsmen(eagles of Matt 24:28) of the Western nations verses 20 & 21. Both the attackers and retaliating clans of Israel are confirmed in the Dead Sea Scrolls war Scroll.

(6). Zech 6:9-15. This represents our present opportunity for a peaceful bringing in of the Kingdom, as outlined in Mal 4:6.

Other sequential yet future events of this powerhouse book of Zechariah are cointinued in Zech 10:1 where you are encouraged to listen to the Elijah prophet. The very next events are:

(7). The Lord strikes down three spiritual leaders IN ONE THIRTY DAY PERIOD(Zech 11:8), who will be surely Christian/Messianic teachers of error who do not please Him.

(8). God breaks the First staff-favor(Zech 11:10) which is the "covenant of Abraham" covering the United States(Mannasseh), Britain(Ephraim), and the Jews of the Middle East(Judah), France(Reuben), Ireland(Dan), the Netherlands(Zebulun), Switzerland(Gad), Sweden(Naptali), Norway(Benjamin), Belgium/Luxemburg(Asher), Finland(Issachar). Levi and Simeon are scattered among the other tribes. The Dead Sea Scrolls identifies the current world ruling empire as the "clans of Israel"(Gen 49:10, concerning the feet of the image of Dan 2). See corresponding Hos 9:12 verse. The Abrahamic covenant has blessed or cursed all nations of the world according to their association with the above Tribes of Israel(see Genesis) which are the divinely properous and currently protected Western nations. Bloodline Manasseh(United States) has fulfilled the favored nation srole of the Abrahamic Covenant, and the British Empire has fulfilled the "company of nations" promise. Either this is true or God Almighty has made a colossal mistake.Germany(Sidon) and Japan(Tarshish) are two blessed examples. Iraq(Edom) and the Palestinians(Philistia) are two who have been cursed.

(9).SPECIAL NOTE: Another event outside of Zech to occur before the tribulations is for the sun to set at noontime(darkening) actually skipping 6-8 hours of TIME(Amos 8:9, Joel 2:31, Luke 21:25, Ac 2) . The moon will be blood red also. Due to the magnitude of this last event above which takes away God's favor from The Western Nations this may be the very day of the event of Amos 8:9 as well. This will not be the last heavenly sign of this type.

(10). God breaks the second staff-bonds(Zech 11:14) which will cause a rift between the Jews(God calls them Judah-the world calls this nation Israel today), and Israel which are the other Tribes(Western nations). This will pave the way for the initial attack on Jerusalem(which event is the "abomination of desolation" of the New Testament and Daniel). After the devastating attack Jerusalem becomes a "carcass"(Matt 24:28). The Eastern armies will not be the attackers in the initial attack but they will(200 million strong) be involved in the final attack just prior to the seventh trump and appearing of the Lord(Zech 14:2-15 & elsewhere).

These last two events(in whatever order the darkening occurs) should be the final events prior to the initial attack on Jerusalem which is "The Sign" (Matt 24, Luke 21, Mark 13) of the beginning of the Great Tribulations.

The False Prophet is described in Zech 11:15-17. This false prophet will help to promote the "Beast leader"(6-6-6 counted as letters in his first, middle and last name). This "Beast leader" corresponds to the first seal of Rev 6:2. He will lead the 10 nation beast power , ruling for 42 months (3 1/2 years) which is the remainder of the tribulations, in the inital retaliatory attack against the attackers of Jerusalem and enter the city and commit more abominations.

[prophetic/modern: Edom/Iraq, Elam/Yugoslavia, Tyre/United States(Tyre is the symbolic name, Manasseh is the bloodline name), Judah/Israel(Jews of Middle East)]. Note: prophetic "Prince(ruler) of Tyre" is the President of the United States who will die in the midst of the seas, not the Beast leader who will be cast into the lake of fire(Rev).

1. Yugoslavia has been dismayed(Jer 49:37) with the recent conflicts.

2. Iraq sought to take over two nations(Iran and Kuwait-Ezek 35:10). Iraq has oil wealth(Oba 1:6), and uses massive concrete and steel bunkers(Oba 1:3), has ancient hatred of the Jews(Judah-Ezek 35:5), Has been CRUSHED but is rebuiling(Mal 1:4) in order to attack Jerusalem(Ezek 25:12) which will then be avenged by the Beast power(Babylon) of the Western nations(Israel-Ezek 25:14).

3. Iraq was defeated but the United States(Tyre) gave up the Kurds and Shiites to Iraq(Edom-Amos 1:9) apparently breaking a promise to these groups. Iraq(Edom) will later be punished at the Lord's appearing such as no other nation on earth(re:bloody garments from Bozrah).

4. Middle East Peace Accord is made(Isa 28:14:15), but sadly it will not endure(18-19).

The "COMING" of the Lord occurs invisibly(Matt 24:23, Mal 3:2-enduring) as the Tribulations begin in judgment(Luke 12:49-59) but is not visible until the "APPEARING" at the last trumpet(Rev 11:15, Heb 9:28, Mal 3:2-standing) when He will ressurect the Saints, vanquish the armies at Armageddon(Meggido), and establish the KINGDOM OF GOD ON THIS EARTH which will be a NEW COVENANT of real peace(Ezek 37:26). This final battle is also called "day of Jezreel", "valley of Jehoshaphat" and "valley of decision"(Hos 1:10-11,Joel 3:2, Joel 3:14). This is the time of the rescue and reuniting of the physical remnant of Judah and Israel(Zech 14:2-11, Jer 31:31-34).

These chapters are surely NOT connected with any attack on Jerusalem within about the next 1000 years as they correspond to a much later rebellion when Jerusalem is truly at peace in the Kingdom of God as reported in Rev 20:7-10. Due in part to the false teachings of some prominent Christian leaders (Lam 2:14 & elsewhere) and other believers concerning these chapters the initial attack on Jerusalem will be a total surprise to most people of the earth(Lam 4:12) at this terrible slaughter(Eze 5:12).

Many Bible believers today feel the Old Covenant(made at Mt. Sinai) has been done away with. Yet we find Jesus Christ(Messiah Yeshua) saying "do not think I came to destroy the law". Again other believers feel the New Covenant is not in effect but rather the Old Covenant law is still in effect with the Levitical Holy days. The New Covenant would require blood for validity: Luke 22:20 In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. " So we have the most precious blood of all-the Blood of God. With careful study you should be able to realize the wineskins(old and new) and the cloths(old and new) parable is speaking of the Old and New Covenants. Notice that "both are preserved(other verses)". Jesus/Yeshua speaking of the time of His crucifixion(New Covenant):

Luke 5:34Jesus answered, "Can you make the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? 35But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; in those days they will fast." 36He told them this parable: "No one tears a patch from a new garment and sews it on an old one. If he does, he will have torn the new garment, and the patch from the new will not match the old. 37And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the new wine will burst the skins, the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. 38No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins. 39And no one after drinking old wine wants the new, for he says, `The old is better.' "(also see Matt 9:17 & Mark 2:22). There is no other logical subject for this parable of the wineskins/cloths(old and new) except the matter of Old and New Covenants. Since "both are preserved" we can see they are both to be in effect after the Blood of God. Paul describing those in the New Covenant: 2 Cor 5:17 17Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 18All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation

Both the Old and New Covenants are in effect and valid in the eyes of Messiah Yeshua(Jesus Christ). Have you not heard the clear Scriptures of those proposing the Old Covenant is in effect quote? Have you not also heard the clear Scriptures of those proposing the New Covenant is in effect quote? Have you ever considered perhaps BOTH are in effect today? These two co-existing spiritual covenants are reflected in several ways: We find them pictured as "two olive trees" in Zech 4. And we find them as "two leavened loaves" in the Holy Day season of Pentecost(Shauvot) also called feast of weeks and firstfruits. This holy day moen(appointed times-mid season) represents the present age with both covenants. The 49 days(seven weeks of 7) represents the 49 years(seven weeks) of Daniel 9, and the 49 years began to count in May 1948 when Judah was reestablished. The 50th day which this feast day falls on represents "Jubilee", meaning it will remain in effect until the Messianic Kingdom is established.

Again in Mal 4:6 we see the two sets of covenant keepers portrayed as "fathers(Jews)" and "children(Christians)".

Though I do not at this time(Ezek 29:21, 2 Thes 2:3) intend to put a name on this individual perhaps it is time we understand the Scriptures which describe this coming powerful leader who will martyr so many of the saints/firstfruits because they refuse to fall in line with him. If anyone carefully studies the clues they may well arrive at a name, but I will not confirm or deny this until the proper time as noted in above Scriptures. First of all we need to understand this person is called by several names-beast, antichrist, first beast, Prince of Israel, King of babylon, little horn, sceptre out of Israel, Shebna, King of the north, horn of the house of Israel. I normally use beast leader to describe him and false prophet(second beast of Rev) to describe his sidekick. The beast leader is of Dan(Gen 49:17, Jer 4:15, Jer 8:16, Amos 8:14,& in Rev the tribe of Dan is intentionally omitted from the 144,000) of the house of Israel(Ezek 21:25, Jer 29:21) not Judah. If I recall correctly Irenaeous of Gaul(possibly one of the last ontrack early believers) used Jer 8:16 for his interpretation that the antichrist would come from Dan. The beast will be promoted by the false prophet(Rev 13:11 &13) who is a religious leader, and whose name also counts 6-6-6(Rev 13:18), who will have his arm withered and right eye blinded at some point(Zech 11:16-17). Both will meet their end as they are thrown together into the lake of fire at the end of the tribulations/beginning of the Kingdom(Rev 19:20).

Profile of THE BEAST LEADER:

6-6-6 will be counted in his name(Rev 13:18).

Has a good IMAGE(reputation)(Rev 13:15, Dan 7:20)

will be endorsed by false prophet(Rev 13:13).

Was(a ruler), is not now(a ruler), is to come(a ruler)-(Rev 17:8)

King of Babylon(Isa 14:4, Ezek 21:25) the seventh and final empire of Daniel and Revelation. Babylon also once was, is not now, but is to come.Babylon is also called the "Chaldeans" in Hab 1:6.

Ruler out of Jacob/Israel(western world)-Ezek 21:25, Isa 22:15-Shebna,Jer 29:21, Num 4:17(sceptre-batters Iran/"Moab").

will have power for 3 1/2 years(Dan 7:21 & 27, Dan 8:25,Rev 17:13, Rev 13:5&15)

will persecute and kill the saints/elect for 3 1/2 years(Dan 7:8&8:25, Rev 13:5)

connected with the mark of the beast(Rev 13:17)

was once mortally wounded but recovered(Rev 13:3 & 12). This also applies to the revival of Babylon.

understands sinister schemes(politics), with stern countenance(Dan 8:23).

power, success, acts against and honors fortresses(military power)(Dan 8:11&24, 11:38)

King of the North(that is Babylon)-(Dan 11:40).

strikes to southeast & holy land(Dan 9:9 & 11:40).

casts down truth, daily sacrifices, sanctuary(Dan 8:9-14).

has the help of a foreign or "strange" god(ufo/aliens?-fire to earth/)(Dan 11:38).

will rule over ten nations and their leaders(Rev 17:12) putting down three of these leaders(Dan 7:8).

magnifies himself as a god(Dan 8:25, Ezek 28:2).

will be instrumental in the destruction of Babylon the great city(Rev 17:16-18).

practices divination(Ezek 21:21)

power but not by his own power(Dan 8:24).

overcomes the saints/elect and totally shatters their power(Rev 13:7, Dan 12:7)

This should provide the basic Biblical clues.

United States history books record a slogan termed "Manifest Destiny" which became popular and widely accepted as true after an article written by John Louis O'Sullivan in 1845. O'Sullivan proposed that the expansive growth of the United States was not only inevitable but divinely ordained by God. Could have O'Sullivan have been correct that God intended to make this country a great nation? The evidence is indisputable and overwhelming. The United States has become the single greatest nation the world has ever known. This nation is unequaled to this very day despite all mistakes, corruption, immorality, and past dire predictions of failure and collapse. Who would have thought the Soviet Union and Berlin wall would have crumbled? Who would have thought the Japanese economic bubble would burst? And who expected that Germany would suffer a series of staggering economic blows(absorption of east Germany, support for the Gulf war, and support to Russia during the food crisis)? What is really happening and does manifest destiny still support this United States? Notice this-in spite of conflicts and apparent setbacks the United States and certain western European nations remain wealthy and prominent among all the nations of the earth. The U. S. remains the jewel among all nations. Remember the Persian Gulf war? The casualty figures were almost exactly 1000 to 1. God certainly seemed to be with us, as if we were Israel in favor with God. For the first eighteen centuries of the past twenty(until around 1800) the most significant inventions and developments were the water wheel, loom, spinning wheel, gunpowder, and printing with type, and were spread around the earth randomly. The suddenly, since about 1800, the factory system, standard production, industrial revolution, agricultural inventions, communications, radio, television, electric bulb, electronics, computers, space, nuclear, scientific, genetical, immunology and countless other advancements were originated or developed in a handful of countries-the United States, British commonwealth and certain western European nations. The United States and British empire alone at one time controlled 60 % of the developed wealth of the entire earth. The sun was said to "never set on the British Empire". What is going on for the past 200 years? God is simply making good on a promise He made to one man(Abraham) thousands of years ago.

Because of the faith of Abraham God made some rather substantial and incredible promises. These promises were made to Abraham for Abraham's descendants(the Israelites): 1. Make many nations of the Israelites. 2. Make the Israelites numerous. 3. Make the Israelites prosperous(Gen 17:3-6, 22:17-18, 26:4-5, 28:13-15). 4. Extend material blessings to all nations of the earth through association with these Israelite nations. Extend material cursing to nations out of favor with these Israelite nations. 5. Specific promises to Joseph's sons(Manasseh the elder and Ephraim the younger)--to make Manasseh a great nation and to make Ephraim a group of nations, with prominence and victory(Gen 48:1-9, 49:22-26).

God has indeed made of Manasseh a great nation- the United States. And God made of Ephraim a company of nations-the British Empire.

God keeps promises. But why wait until about 1800. Because of sin of the House of Israel(northern kingdom-headed by Joseph/Ephraim) the blessings were delayed seven times(7 x 360 years) or 2520 years. The captivity by Assyria came about around 721 B.C.(BCE) so this delay would have been over around 1800 A.D.(C.E.), as 721 plus 2520 would be around 1800 or 1801 depending upon calendrical interpretation.

God placed no condition, obedience or otherwise, upon implementation. But He did place a condition upon keeping it in effect forever-circumcism of all male Israelites. "Any uncircumsized male-he has broken my covenant(Geb 17:4). Many generations later the apostle Paul, calling this the "Covenant of circumcism"(Acts 7:8), clearly understood this applied only to Israelites, not Gentiles(Acts 15:1, 15:19-21, 21:25). Paul was careful to never state it did not still apply to all Israelites, though he understood it had nothing to do with spiritual salvation(Gal 5:6). The only connection with the spiritual walk is as a shadow of "circumcism of the heart"(Rom 2:29), involving repentance and conversion to God's way of life. Paul had Timothy circumcised because his mother was a Jewess(Acts 16:1-3). The other obvious connection is that the seed of Abraham(Jesus Christ/Messiah Yashua) is the savior of the whole earth wearing different hats/crowns and using various names throughout the Bible from Genesis to Revelation.

God took a people captive to Assyria(ancestors of modern Germany) and sifted them among the nations and brought them to today where they are at the moment a world ruling empire. This very group is portrayed as the feet(6 th empire) of the man in the image of Dan chapter 2. This same empire corresponds to the fourth head of the leopard of Dan 7, fourth horn of the goat(Dan 8), and the sixth head found in Rev 13 & 17. The Dead Sea Scrolls interpretation of Gen 49:10 states "these are the clans of Israel". Meaning the lawgiver/ruler will not be taken away from Israel until Shiloh(Messiah) comes(in power to take away all rulers). The final lawgiver(the beast leader) will be of Israel, and will survive though battered, until thrown into the lake of fire.

You can say one of three things:(a)God has made good on his promises to one man, Abraham, or, (b) God has made a colossal mistake, or (c). God will fulfill this covenant later on. Looking around at world conditions, what do you think?

But then perhaps we of the western world have earned the bread on our table and made gains through justice and honesty. Do we obey the commandments more than others? Are we less dishonest and more peaceful than others? Are our lawyers, judges, politicians, businessmen more honest and capable than ones in other nations? Are our medical, insurance and other institutions less greedy than those of other nations? Perhaps we are smarter, more productive, and better managers than those of other nations? What do you think?

Look around at events over the past 200 years, and you will see that those Gentile nations who favor us are blessed(Germany and Japan today, Italy, Spain), and those who have fallen out with us are cursed(Panama, Phillipines, Cuba). One might ask "what about the Soviet Union-were they not great and prosperous?" Were they? If you will look back at the gross national product of the Soviet Union in her best years were dwarfed by even the least of the European nations. The Soviets had literally poured their very lifeblood into the military buildup. They never truly had prosperity to lose. Even so, when their economy collapsed, who came to their aid with some 80 billion dollars in food and support their worst winter-western nations blessed by God under this very Abrahamic covenant given to us without merit. Therefore they were blessed under this very covenant. What if it had not been in effect? Think about it. How much has God suppressed the Aids spread, deaths and injuries natural disasters, sustained the environment, and protected us in countless ways under this very covenant of physical and material blessings(favor) from God because of Abraham's faith. God has made good.

Consider this please. As long as this Abrahamic Covenant remains in effect "Jacob's trouble" can not happen. Jacob's trouble is a curse not a blessing. So how will God handle this? Well, Almighty God is about to break this very covenant, which is pictured as the "staff of beauty/favor/grace" of Zech 11:10. And He says "And I took my staff of grace and cut it in two, that I might break the covenant which I had made with all peoples". See also Hos 9:12.

What will the western world be like without this protective and sustaining Abrahamic Covenant? For a people whose garbage bins would be a treasure in many poor nations? Who has had perhaps two dozen citizens dead in hurricane Andrew, one of the most destructive in history? We will surely need to depend upon God then, because the blessings through Abraham will be no more this side of the Kingdom. Our nations and our way of life will never be the same without this fantastic and largely unrecognized Abrahamic Covenant. We will in days afterward face disasters and famines and invasions and captivity and defeat just as other nations. But God will not make a complete end of us.

For centuries there has been a tendency among certain Christian groups to want to "throw out the Old Testament". Now we see another movement gaining strength and growing which has the potential to become just as dangerous in a reverse twist. This movement is called "Back to Torah" and the trend seems to be a tendency to "throw out the New Testament". I submit to you that one can obtain salvation by following the teachings in either, and much can be learned from either alone. But I also submit MUCH MORE can be learned and understood by combining both. Some have even substituted "TORAH" for "Word" in John 1:1. That is in my opinion going too far, because "Logos" is clearly defined more as "spokesman" than "statute/precept"(torah). Messiah/Christ is the author of Torah and supremely above even Torah. He is our salvation and hope for salvation through His mercy, not what we can buy with 613 laws or any number for that matter.(Oct 9, 1997)

Eliyahu

In the early days of the Anti-Nicene fathers(those who had actually had contact with and learned under the original apostles of Jesus(Yeshua the Messiah) a controversy raged between them and the church at Rome. This controversy centered around the dispute of the day of crucifixion. The church at Rome(later to become the Catholic church) desired to establish Friday as the date of crucifixion and Sunday as the day of resurrection. The Anti-Nicene(against the Nicene creed of c.325AD) fathers insisted the crucifixion happened on Nissan 14, the very day of the sacrifice of the Passover lamb(Jesus being the Lamb of God). Thus the Anti--Nicene fathers were called the "Quartradecimans"(meaning "fourteen"). They were eventually killed off, so Rome had her way for the time. And as we know the traditional Friday crucifixion-Sunday resurrection has been accepted widely by mainstream Christianity. Hence the Good Friday-Easter Sunday. Why did the early church fathers contend over this? Is it important? Let us examine the matter with Scripture. Jesus said he would provide the sign of Jonah and"so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth(Matt 12:40)." Jonah, we see was indeed in the belly of the fish three days and three nights(Jon 1:17). See also Matt 16:21, 17:23, 20:19, Mark 8:31, 9:31, 10:34, Luke 9:22, 11:30, 18:33 and John 2:19.

This is speaking a period of three days and three nights in the grave, and a Friday-Sunday scenario simply will not fit. The apostle Paul said "-He rose again the third day according to Scriptures(1 Cor 15:3-4). In order for His word to be perfectly fulfilled there must be three days and three nights. The time of death can be established at 3:00 PM(ninth hour-Hebrew reckoning) by Matt 27:45-50. Our 6 am to noon would be counted in the Hebrew time period as the first six hours of the "Day" period, so three hours past noon(6+3=9) would be about the ninth hour(depending on the exact time of sunrise). Apparently in the year Jesus was crucified (A.D.31?), the 14th day of Nissan(Passover day)was Thursday as we shall see. The annual Sabbath(first High Holy day) of unleavened bread was Friday. For this reason Joseph of Aramethia hurried to place the body of Jesus in the tomb before dark on Thursday(Nissan 14-Passover sacrifice day & "preparation" day for the feast). This would mean He would rise after sundown Saturday, that is Sunday. The "wavesheaf" offering is always waved on Sunday, the day following the weekly Sabbath, and consequently the next Feast of Shuavot/Pentecost falls on a Sunday(the fiftieth day-symbolic of "Jubilee: whcih is symbolic of the Kingdom).

There is mention in Mark 15:25 that He was crucified "in the third hour"(9am), when He was taken to be crucified, and the "ninth hour"(3PM) when He gave up His spirit(died-verses 34-37). Is the time significant? Yes, because about three PM would be the very time the priests of the temple were sacrificing the Passover Lamb, to prepare it for the evening meal. We find plainly in John 19:14 that this "was the preparation day for the Passover". You can see in verse 31 that this was not a normal weekly Sabbath but a special "high" holy day(annually celebrated). This "High Sabbath" was the first day of unleavened bread, the first of seven annual special holy days of Leviticus and Exodus. Any who have kept this day or keep it today are quite familiar with the "high" Sabbath as an annual holy day and not the weekly Sabbath(seventh) day. These seven annual "high" Sabbath holy days days might begin on any day of the week from year to year. The "preparation day" is the day which precedes(comes before) the First Day of Unleavened bread(first annual holy day). This preparation involves putting all leavened(symbolic of sin) products out of the household of believers. This was a physical act to remind one to put sin out of their life. The only significance to a Friday would be that it is the eve of Sabbath(Saturday-seventh day). Nothing involving unusual preparation. Now, we must reason carefully as a Hebrew of that day would have, using a Hebrew mindset. The Hebrew day begins at SUNDOWN. The first part of the Hebrew day is the 12 hour NIGHT period(approx 6PM to 6AM). The last part of the Hebrew day is the 12 hour DAY period(approx 6AM to 6PM). Please keep this firmly in mind. The first High Sabbath being Friday would make the "wavesheaf offering" occur on SUNDAY, in the midst of the feast of unleavened bread, which week would be concluded on the following Tuesday(second annual High holy day). All of this is connected and important to fulfill prophecy and magnify God's plans. The fourteenth day of the first month is always the Passover and in the fifteenth day of this month is the first "High" holy day, the first day of the feast of unleavened bread(Leviticus & Numbers 28:16-17). Now, VERY IMPORTANT, remembering the Hebrew day ends at SUNDOWN, let us examine the clear evidence of the first verse of Matt 28: (NKJ) "Now after the Sabbath, as the first day of the week began to dawn(after SUNDOWN SATURDAY), Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb". We see in verse 6 He had already risen. Therefore, after sundown Saturday Jesus had risen. Keep firmly in mind the Hebrew Sunday(first day of the week) begins at sundown Saturday. Jesus said also in John 2:19 " Destroy this temple(His body) and in three days I will raise it up." A resurrection of after sundown Saturday would be indicated.

Deut 21:23 mandated the removal of His body off the tree before sundown Thursday, and they had to place His body in the tomb before sundown as well, because such work was prohibited on the High Sabbath beginning at sundown(Lev 23:7). This claiming of the body and placing it in the tomb would have likely put the actual burial time at about 5 or 6 PM Thursday. We find in Luke 16:1 that "when the Sabbath was past" they found the tomb empty, meaning the tomb was found to be empty after sundown Saturday.

The resurrection was recognized and proclaimed on SUNDAY as Sunday began(after sundown Saturday). This corresponds to the "wavesheaf offering" happening on the very same day(midst of the seven days of unleavened bread). This seven days of unleavened bread(with Messiah the "wavesheaf offering) are symbolic of the "week" of Daniel 9:27 consisting of seven years ministry, again divided in half by the "wavesheaf offering"(two separate 3 ½ years ministry, one past one ahead called the coming of the Lord and other terms). The unleavened bread represents instruction to sinners(You and I). These two ministries are also represented in the feeding of the two multitudes. The leftover baskets of twelve in the first feeding represents the 12 apostles. The leftover baskets of five in the second feeding represents the seven churches of Rev 2 & 3(seven candlesticks of Zech 4).

The two spiritual covenants Messiah made with mankind are represented in the following holy day(Shavuot/Pentecost). By counting 49 days(seven weeks of seven) from this "wavesheaf Sunday"(Lev 23:15) to the next High holy day(Shavuot/Pentecost/firstfruits/feast of weeks). Sound familiar? These days represent the "seven weeks" remaining of Dan 9. These represent 49 years which started counting in 1948 when Judea was reestablished. The two leavened loaves(firstfruits of the Lord) represent the two separate groups(Old and New) of Covenant keepers, who shall stand in the firstfruits/saints/inheritors resurrection at the last of the seven trumpets of Rev.

Most Bible students have heard of the "flesh saved alive" from the tribulations and of the "remnant" of mortal humans to be preserved and allowed to enter the Messianic Kingdom. The following may clarify the why, who and how this promise from the Savior spoken of by Him in the book of Matthew is connected to the "remnant of Israel". (speaking of the next coming/tribulations-NIV. "For the sake of the elect" specifically is in consideration of the offspring of the Saints promised in Isa 49:25 as opposed to ignoring of the offspring of the wicked as noted in Hos 4:6) Matt 24:22 If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened. (of the future gathering of the whole house of Israel) Ezek 36:24" `For I will take you out of the nations; I will gather you from all the countries and bring you back into your own land. 25I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. 26I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. 28You will live in the land I gave your forefathers; you will be my people, and I will be your God. 29I will save you from all your uncleanness. I will call for the grain and make it plentiful and will not bring famine upon you. 30I will increase the fruit of the trees and the crops of the field, so that you will no longer suffer disgrace among the nations because of famine. Isa 49:14(to the elect & Jerusalem) But Zion said, "The LORD has forsaken me, the Lord has forgotten me." 20The children born during your bereavement will yet say in your hearing, `This place is too small for us; give us more space to live in.' 25But this is what the LORD says: "Yes, captives will be taken from warriors, and plunder retrieved from the fierce; I will contend with those who contend with you, and your children I will save. (These are the remnant of flesh saved alive of the whole house of Israel, many for the "sake of the elect/saints" because they will be offspring of the saints, the two sticks of Ezek 37:15-28 who have "passed under the rod" and will enter the Kingdom to repopulate the earth and be ruled over by the Saint King David(vs 25) who will be among the Firstfruits which are the Saints in the first resurrection described in of Rev 20:4 & 6 and 1 Cor 15:51. There is no condemnation judgment in this first ressurection. (Then these mortal survivors will practice and keep the whole law of Leviticus in the temple built for men described in Ezek chapters 40-48 describe this temple and conditions during the Kingdom) Zech 14:16 Then the survivors from all the nations that have attacked Jerusalem will go up year after year to worship the King, the LORD Almighty, and to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles. 17If any of the peoples of the earth do not go up to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD Almighty, they will have no rain. 18If the Egyptian people do not go up and take part, they will have no rain. The LORDD will bring on them the plague he inflicts on the nations that do not go up to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles. 19This will be the punishment of Egypt and the punishment of all the nations that do not go up to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles. Hos 1:11 .' 11The people of Judah and the people of Israel will be reunited, and they will appoint one leader and will come up out of the land, for great will be the day of Jezreel. Jer 50:4 4"In those days, at that time," declares the LORD, "the people of Israel and the people of Judah together will go in tears to seek the LORD their God. 5They will ask the way to Zion and turn their faces toward it. They will come and bind themselves to the LORD in an everlasting covenant that will not be forgotten (sins of remnant forgiven and put behind) Jer 50:20 20In those days, at that time," declares the LORD, "search will be made for Israel's guilt, but there will be none, and for the sins of Judah, but none will be found, for I will forgive the remnant I spare. Verses 5 & 11-20 of Rev 20 describe the GWT judgment which corresponds to the valley of bones of Ezek 37:1-14. Ezek chapters 38 & 39 correspond to the final rebellion after Satan is released for a short time near the end of the first 1000 years of the Kingdom in Rev 20:7-10, not to any tribulations event as some teach.)

(the final attack on Judea for this age just before the seventh trump in which the Savior then APPEARS & intervenes and saves the remnant of Judah first then the rest of Israel-verse 1 describes the earlier events during the tribulations) Zech 14:2 141A day of the LORD is coming when your plunder will be divided among you. 2I will gather all the nations to Jerusalem to fight against it; the city will be captured, the houses ransacked, and the women raped. Half of the city will go into exile, but the rest of the people will not be taken from the city. 3Then the LORD will go out and fight against those nations, as he fights in the day of battle. 4On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem, and the Mount of Olives will be split in two from east to west, forming a great valley, with half of the mountain moving north and half moving south. 5You will flee by my mountain valley, for it will extend to Azel. You will flee as you fled from the earthquakeA in the days of Uzziah king of Judah. Then the LORD my God will come, and all the holy ones with him. (the following verses describe the Megiddo battle often callled Armageddon) 12This is the plague with which the LORD will strike all the nations that fought against Jerusalem: Their flesh will rot while they are still standing on their feet, their eyes will rot in their sockets, and their tongues will rot in their mouths. 13On that day men will be stricken by the LORD with great panic. Each man will seize the hand of another, and they will attack each other. 14Judah too will fight at Jerusalem. The wealth of all the surrounding nations will be collected--great quantities of gold and silver and clothing. 15A similar plague will strike the horses and mules, the camels and donkeys, and all the animals in those camps. (see also Zech 12:1-14. see also Isa 31 where "Egypt" is symbolic for the Arab nations and "Assyria" is symbolic for the 200 million man Russian/Oriental army spoken of in Rev 9:13-19 after the sixth trumpet which has crossed the dried up Euphrates River as seen in Rev 16:12). The Savior wins! The Beast leader(Ezek 21:25) and false prophet are cast into the lake of fire and Satan and the demons are bound and the Kingdom begins in peace, healing, righteousness, truth, mercy and true justice.

After the Savior rescues the remnant of Judah during the final battle of the tribulations those of Judea will mourn(Judah with portions of Simeon, Levi & Benjamin).Why will they mourn? Because they will recognize the One whom they pierced. Zech 12:10 "And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spiritA of grace and supplication. They will look onB me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son. 11On that day the weeping in Jerusalem will be great, like the weeping of Hadad Rimmon in the plain of Megiddo. 12The land will mourn, each clan by itself, with their wives by themselves: the clan of the house of David and their wives, the clan of the house of Nathan and their wives, 13the clan of the house of Levi and their wives, the clan of Shimei and their wives, 14and all the rest of the clans and their wives.

(Of His piercing and crucifixion as the supreme sacrifice)

Isa 53:3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. 5But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities ; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. 6We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

(As the Lamb of God)

7He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 8By oppressionA and judgment he was taken away. And who can speak of his descendants? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was stricken.B 9He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.

10Yet it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makesC his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand. 11After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light of lifeD and be satisfiedE; by his knowledgeF my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities. 12Therefore I will give him a portion among the great,G and he will divide the spoils with the strong,H because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

• Important links of New Testament apostles John and Paul with the Dead Sea Scrolls community members.
• The promised "Elijah to come" Prophet (Mat 17:11, Mal 4:5)is described.
• The true messages and purposes of the Qumran writings are revealed.
• Leader and members of the community are identified and proven.
• Prophetic end of age messages are included and clarified.
• Puzzling Biblical Scriptures become understandable.

Synopsis:The world famous Dead Sea Scrolls are a modern mystery and have been so for almost 50 years. This puzzle is about to be solved using logic, history, and the Bible for clues which prove John the Baptist to be the mysterious "Teacher of Righteousness" leading the Qumran community. The role as leader of the community makes John the Baptist responsible for the Dead Sea Scrolls. The Baptist's leadership at Qumran will present an incredible dilemma for many modern theologians and religious leaders and demands difficult choices because much that the Dead Sea Scrolls reveal is contrary to many modern religious doctrines. Before now these writings of Qumran could simply be ignored or hidden away. These Scrolls will now CRY OUT because John the Baptist was given unprecedented authority by Jesus Christ, and it will be difficult for anyone to dispute his writings. The Dead Sea Scrolls contain important messages concerning the LAST DAYS of this present age. These Biblically based prophetic writings provide great details of persons, nations, tribulations, and military conflicts involving three distinctive power blocks in this very time in which we live. While in prison John the Baptist completed at least one of the Dead Sea Scrolls recording the exact circumstances of his own arrest, with his arm out of socket, shackling, and details of his imprisonment. These circumstances conform to the recorded historical and New Testament accounts concerning John the Baptist. Selected Qumran texts teach grace, truth, repentance, and forgiveness of sin just as the Baptist does in the New Testament. Many of these Scrolls also describe the birth of Jesus, His role as the begotten Son(i.e: New testament role as the fountain of eternal life, and circumstances of HIS next coming. The Qumran Scrolls community of converts wrote that they expected to move to Damascus to keep the law of the NEW COVENANT. They also wrote that a special "interpreter" of the law known as the STAR would come to Damascus and instruct the members concerning the law. Within days of the news of John's death an important New Testament figure was strategically located TWICE in the area of DAMASCUS. You will learn who this special STAR was from New Testament evidence. This Qumran group called itself THE WAY in their writings and this points directly to the Apostle Paul and a distinct and mysterious early Christian group later located in Damascus. This is written in the New Testament book of Acts after the group of John the Baptist's disciples had moved from Qumran to Damascus to keep the "New Covenant". The HEAD of JOHN the BAPTIST was taken by his disciples as they moved to Damascus and placed in a crypt in a building named the "Cathedral of John the Baptist". The location of John's head in Damascus along with additional evidence establishes the identity of the Dead Sea Scrolls group as John the Baptist's disciples and clarifies the Christian-Qumran connections which have puzzled researchers for over forty years. John the Baptist as leader at Qumran is the former promised symbolic "Elijah" prophet, who prepared the way for the LAST COMING of Jesus and laid the groundwork for the NEXT COMING also by describing the Last Prophet("The Final Teacher of Righteousness"-DSS) and certain circumstances and events of the final days yet ahead of us. As the story unfolds a new time frame for the Baptist's expanded role and writings is clarified and charted. The unfounded but previously accepted date of 68 A.D. for the end of the Scrolls community is the single greatest mistake made over the years in the Qumran investigations and has prevented any reasonable explanation for the community. The roles of both John the Baptist in his day and the final "Elijah" prophet concerning the "last days" are explored in detail. One of the main objectives of the Scrolls texts is to paint a verbal picture of this prophet/teacher who is to surface in the final years of this age. This individual is described in the Scrolls as the final "Teacher of Righteousness" to whom God gives ALL UNDERSTANDING of all that the prophets have written in the Bible, and who is to serve as a plumb line of distinction between good and evil. This future "Elijah" will possess the VISION of the end, and many Jewish and Christian believers today expectantly look for this promised symbolic Elijah. It has been said that some Jewish Karaites have a chair reserved for him in their own homes. The Scrolls provide intimate details of the final prophet's personal life, problems, health, and certain physical descriptions. These details prove to be directly extracted from specific heretofore enigmatic Biblical Psalms. Even though inspired through John the Baptist these certain writings prove to be BIBLICALLY extracted by him. The final prophet is quite different from John the Baptist. This yet to appear prophet is described as older, with weakening eyesight, in very poor health, scorned, and has suffered a loss of reputation unjustly due to betrayal by someone he trusted. "ALL WHO HAVE EATEN HIS BREAD HAVE LIFTED THEIR HEEL AGAINST HIM" as the scrolls reveal. Friends and family members stand aloof believing him to be a broken vessel. A large number of other identifying details are provided and we find God Himself SCOURGING this prophet for a definite PURPOSE in order to present a message to others. The mystery of his end time vision has been shared with others before it becomes public but has not been well received, bringing upon him more troubles because of it. After this God will begin to establish and reveal this prophet and his mystery. The terminology peculiar to the Dead Sea Scrolls is used by only TWO New Testament writers-John and Paul. The employment of this particular style(from the teachings of the Baptist at Qumran) by the Apostle Paul and the Apostle John is due to their intimate contact with these disciples of John the Baptist. Paul was with the group three years in Damascus circa 37-40 A. D. The personal association of the Apostle John with John the Baptist as his disciple before he became a disciple of Jesus is explained. Similarities of the Qumran group to first Christians in belief, practice, and terminology is reviewed and elaborated on in the aspect of a completely new time frame. Other links are established between the Scrolls community of Qumran and Jesus and the Apostles of the New testament era. Also included among the texts is mention of the 70 A.D. Roman destruction of Judea. John the Baptist and the Qumran members actually PREDICTED this military destruction to come upon Judea in the Dead Sea Scrolls. The Scrolls indicated military destruction would come in the area "about forty years" after the death of their leader, and history records this very fact. John the Baptist was killed about 29 A.D. and the Roman attacks came some forty years later, just as these converts wrote. Scrolls evidence and even more New Testament connections with the early Christians will be explored to show the relation of the Qumran scrolls group to the first Christians. The cryptic meaning of the "Sons of Zadok", "Judah", and "Israel" as used by the Qumran community to identify themselves is explained relative to use and origin. Religious concepts and beliefs of the community are discussed and certain points of the Old and New Testaments are presented in a very different light. The "codewords" used by the community to deliberately retard the understanding of their messages are identified to MODERN nations such as the United States and Russia and to certain persons. The symbolic Biblical prophetic names for persons and nations are discussed and certain nations are identified by clues provided by the Scrolls and the Bible. Modern nations as represented by prophetic Ephraim, Manasseh, Tyre, Sidon, Assyria, Edom, and others are identified from the Bible and the Scrolls texts. The Scrolls provide an incredible and surprising identification of a present day POWERBLOCK connected with the Lost Tribes of Israel represented in the image of the second chapter of the book of Daniel. This allows a composite illustration of the seven heads and all features of the heads, toes, and beasts of the books of Daniel and Revelation which fits perfectly into history and the Bible as NEVER BEFORE SEEN. This picture includes the modern nations of today in which a NEW EMPIRE is recognized. The "Wicked Priest" turns out to be a well known world ruling leader yet to appear, who will try to kill the final prophet and the people who listen to him. The leader of a later powerblock called "Kittim Asshur" is known as the "Furious Young Lion" and may well be a man named Vladimir Zhirinovsky, the recently prominent Russian leader. Scrolls texts indicate the first end time event is an attack on Jerusalem, and the attackers and other involved nations are identified. The nature and sequence of end time events are provided. The references to the strange "Book of Hagu" equates to the Biblical Psalms of Asaph(50 & 73-83) which specifically instruct in end time conditions. Certain popular modern day prophecies and religious beliefs such as found in the well known book Late Great Planet Earth by Hal Lindsey are discussed and compared to parallel accounts in the Dead Sea Scrolls last days commentaries. Quite a difference! According to the Scrolls the end time Beast Power is BABYLON not Rome as many expect, and there is the "crucible" for the people of God, not a rapture! The end of age Beast Power is thoroughly discussed according to Scroll's revelations. Major religious doctrines such as the nature of the Holy Spirit are challenged head on by the Scrolls. The "ECHO" of the Dead Sea Scrolls for the end time prophecy is tied to certain key Biblical texts and examined with current and recent years events in mind. Recent developments in Russia, the Persian Gulf, and the Balkans are compared to the Scrolls' interpretations with surprising results. The seven churches of Revelation are also associated with certain Psalms by the Scrolls, and is related to the feeding of the two multitudes by Jesus. much more is covered as we look into the content of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Therefore judge for yourself my friend!

Contents:

• Chapter 1 Dead Sea Scrolls-the Qumran Community.
• Chapter 2 "The Way" at Qumran-Christian Connections.
• Chapter 3 Codewords Identified.
• Chapter 4 John the Baptist-"Teacher of Righteousness".
• Chapter 5 The final "Elijah"-Portrait of a Prophet.
• Chapter 6 Modern Prophetic ideas and a different Scrolls'message.
• Chapter 7 Scrolls End of Age "ECHO"-Voice from the Past.

For THE LAST PROPHET(online following Online Prophet)spiral bound manuscript please send $19(check or money order-U. S. orders only at present to:

online book

The Last Prophet

as described by the Dead Sea Scrolls and Biblical Scripture

by B. L. Rich

Synopsis located on Webpage http://www.panola.com/users/brich/

Copyright registered

CONTENTS

Chapter One Dead Sea Scrolls-The Qumran Community. Chapter Two "The Way" at Qumran-Christian Connections. Chapter Three Codewords Identified. Chapter Four John the Baptist-"Teacher of Righteousness". Chapter Five The Final "Elijah"-Portrait of a Prophet. Chapter Six Modern Prophetic Ideas and a Different Scrolls' Message. Chapter Seven Scrolls' End of Age "Echo"-Voice from the Past.

GENERAL BIBLIOGRAPHY

Americana Encyclopedia, vol. 9(New York, 1988). Britannica Encyclopedia, Damascus(New York, 1986). Britannica Encyclopedia, vol. 1,4,6,9,10,16 &21(New York, 1985). M. Burrows, The Dead Sea Scrolls(New York, 1955). R. H. Charles, Apocrypha and Pseudepidgrapha of the Old Testament, vol. 2(Oxford, 1913). R. DeVaux, The Archaeology of the Dead Sea Scrolls(London, 1973). A. Dupont-Sommer, The Essenne Writings from Qumran(Oxford, 1961). T. H. Gaster, The Dead Sea Scriptures in English Translation(New York, 1956). J. A. Fitzmyer, The Dead Sea Scrolls: Major Publications and Tools for Study(Missoula, 1975). McCarter/Sanders/Shanks/Vanderkam, The Dead Sea Scrolls after Forty Years(Washington, 1991). J. T. Milik, Ten Years of Discovery in the Wilderness of Judea(London, 1959). Neil, William, The Bible Companion(New York, 1976). Nelson, Thomas & Sons, The Apocrypha of the Old Testament(new York, 1957). Sanders/H. Sconfield, Secrets of the Dead Sea Scrolls(New York, 1957). H. Shanks, Understanding the Dead Sea Scrolls(New York, 1992). J. M. Sukenik, The Dead Sea Scrolls of the Hebrew University(Jerusalem, 1955). Thurbon, Colin, Mirror to Damascus(New York, 1967). G. Vermes, The Dead Sea Scrolls in English(London, 1987). Y. Yadin, War of the Sons of Light and the Sons of Darkness(1969). E. Wilson, The Dead Sea Scrolls(London, 1969).

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The author gratefully recognizes and appreciates the work and patient research of all the Dead Sea Scrolls authors, scholars, translators, and researchers without whom there would be no understanding of the Scrolls. Personal gratitude is also extended to the personnel of the University of Mississippi and the First Regional Library of Mississippi and others who have helped with this project.

LEGEND

A.D. After Christ or Common Era B.C. Before Christ or Before Common Era CD Damascus Document DSS Dead Sea Scrolls H Hodayoth or Thanksgiving Hymns M War Scroll Q Qumran TR Teacher of Righteousness

INTRODUCTION

By way of introduction to this writing some key extracts from the Dead Sea Scrolls texts are presented:

[of CHRIST]

-a woman in travail with her first born child-a man child- a Marvelous Mighty Counselor- (His birth). -When He is born all wombs will quicken-in grievous pains- they shall be appalled who are with child-(of Herod's child murder

[of JOHN THE BAPTIST]

-for my father did not know me and my mother abandoned me to you-(of his childhood at Qumran). I am bound with untearable ropes and unbreakable chains-iron bars and bronze gates-my arm is torn from it's socket-I can no longer raise my arm-my foot is fettered-my legs and arms are bound with shackles which make me stumble-my voice which You made mighty, is gone- I have no word for my disciples-(of John's binding and imprisonment).

[OF THE COMING LAST DAYS PROPHET]

I Have been sin to those who contend with me, dispute and quarreling to my friends, anger to the members of my covenant and murmuring and protest to all my companions. All who have eaten my bread have lifted their heel against me, and those who have joined my council have mocked me with evil lips-with schemes a perfidious tongue is unleashed(of personal trials). I eat the bread of wailing-carried away with the sick-without strength for seasons on end- pains-heart laments-near the pit-(of serious physical illnesses). The members of my covenant have murmured about me in rebellion, going as talebearers before the children of mischief concerning the mystery which You have hidden in me(of his religious group). The wicked and fierce storm against me-violent men seek my life(of attacks). They have banished me from my land like a bird from it's nest-the poor one is carried away in the midst of great tribulation(of exile). The assembly of the wicked rage against me-because they do not know my steps are directed by You, they made me an object of shame and derision--to traitors You have made me an object of mockery and scorn(of rejection). But to the chosen righteous You have made me a banner, and a discerning interpreter of marvelous mysteries, to try those who practice truth and to prove those who love correction-a fount of living waters to all men of insight-they harken to me who walk in the way(of acceptance). You have cleansed me of great sin-I stand by Your mercy-for I have stood in the realm of wickedness and my lot was with the damned-I, a shape of clay mixed with water-of shame- an edifice of sin-You have upheld me-it is You who establishes the path of whomsoever You choose(of experience and attitude). And they, teachers of lies and seers of falsehood, have schemed against me a devilish scheme, to swap the law engraved on my heart by You for the smooth things which they speak to Your people, feeding their thirst with vinegar, watching their straying, on their foolishness concerning their feast days, as they fall into their traps(of religious schemes). Without any strength-dimmed eyes(of physical attributes). Shaking and trembling seize me-all my bones are broken(of his death).

[OF ALL PEOPLE]

-to the humble He might bring glad tidings of great mercy, and salvation from God to the poor in spirit, and joy to those who mourn-(of mercy and salvation). -and I know there is hope for those who turn from transgression and for those who abandon sin-(of opportunity). [above are from the Thanksgiving Hymns of the Dead Sea Scrolls]

SUMMARY

With these Scrolls text verses to set the stage You are about to embark on a journey of discovery-the unveiling of the mystery of the Dead Sea Scrolls against the backdrop of a voice calling out about future events and actual people on the earth today. As we listen to the Scrolls from the desert of Judea of 2000 years ago. This voice is none other than John the Baptist , long believed to somehow be associated with this group of converts at Khirbet Qumran, but never really identified as the leader of the community. He was the symbolic "Elijah" come alive as promised in Scripture and He points dramatically at yet another "Elijah" figure (Matt 17:11) destined to appear on the scene in the last days. This latter Elijah, for whom some Jewish believers have a chair reserved, turns out to be quite different from The Baptizer. This verbal picture of the coming prophet provides great detail with physical descriptions, trials and personal betrayal in which friends and family members stand aloof taking him for a broken vessel. These details come not only from John's inspiration but are soundly based on a certain set of Biblical Psalms including 37-42. God is scourging this Last Prophet for a certain purpose, and the mystery of the end time vision is hidden for a time until God establishes and reveals this Prophet and His vision which some have already refused to accept or believe. He will serve as a plumb line between the people of God and those who are not, thereby making a distinction between good and evil. A remarkable identification of the sixth empire as shown in the image of the man in Daniel chapter two is provided by the Scrolls. This sixth empire is connected with the "Lost Tribes of Israel" and allows a composite illustration of the image to include all empires, heads, and beasts of the books of Daniel and Revelation. This Scroll's identification makes possible this never before seen illustration which perfectly fits both history and the Bible and which explains a multitude of previously mysterious prophetic Scriptures. The peculiar terminology used in certain of the later Dead Sea Scrolls texts is reflected in the writings of two New Testament authors-John and Paul. For many years this has been a great mystery. But we shall learn that the employment of this particular style of terminology by the Apostle John and the Apostle Paul in their New Testament writings comes about from a personal relationship with John the Baptist and His Qumran disciples. These people at Qumran actually predicted the 70 A.D. destruction of Judea in the Dead Sea Scrolls. The Scrolls indicated military destruction would come "about forty years" after the death of their leader(John the Baptist), and history records this very fact. John was decapitated about 29 A.D. and the Roman attacks came some forty years later just as these converts had predicted. You will learn of the Qumran-Christian relations with the Apostles Paul and John and about another special "interpreter" the Scrolls members expected to later meet in Damascus. He is called "The Star" and is to instruct them concerning the New Covenant after John is beheaded. From accounts in the New Testament you will see this STAR in the Damascus area twice within days of the news of John's death. The head of John the Baptist is found in Damascus further cementing the Qumran-Christian connection. The single greatest mistake Scrolls investigators have made is the erroneous assumption that the Scrolls community remained at Qumran until 68 A.D., and no sound explanation for the community could ever be connected with such a time frame. Another mistake made by some concerning the Qumran writings is the notion that the beliefs of the community were set from beginning to end. This is emphatically not so because the community began to grow in understanding soon after it was founded, almost two centuries before John was born. Over a period of about two hundred years the spiritual concepts reflected in the later writings authored primarily by John the Baptist represent a vast enlightenment and is clearly evident from the textual chronology. For example the Thanksgiving Hymns(later text) is a far cry from the MMT(early text) which dealt almost exclusively with physical rituals connected with the Old Testament Scriptures. We can see in the New Testament a dispute by the Jews with John the Baptist's disciples concerning certain rituals. The New Testament account corresponds quite well to the later Qumran attitude. The story of the Qumran Scrolls is a true drama in human history with very real people, not unlike those of us today. As you read the Scrolls authored by John the Baptist remember that those which pertain to the Last Days are actually writing about us-the people of this modern age. Their writings are based on the Bible with many events yet future, so we are privy to hear of events before they happen, and the people described will actually appear in this age. You may therefore be reading about Yourself! With this writing You should also become Scrolls literate because You will not only hear about the Dead Sea Scrolls of Qumran but also will read what these Scrolls have to say.

Chapter One- The Dead Sea Scrolls-Qumran Community.

Preview

Throughout the ages at certain pinnacle points in history all things seem to come together for a monumental happening. The Exodus, the Flood, and the Last Coming are such events. Perhaps We sit today on the very brink of the next happening-the End of this Age. Biblical prophecies paint the cataclysmic events associated with the end time as the final convulsions, a time of testing, before a new and very different order. The Qumran Scrolls of the Dead Sea have specific messages concerning these very events and the people who are to be involved. The Scrolls present a true human drama about some very real people of some 2000 years ago not unlike each of us today. They also portray some yet future people and happenings as this age moves towards culmination. You will see a true story concerning divine planning carried out over many centuries, and much will be said about a prophet who was "a man named John-sent by God" and still another who is to serve as the Last Prophet for the end of this age. A multitude of people around the earth have followed the story of the Dead Sea Scrolls for fifty years, some for most of their lifetimes. Yet while many know ABOUT the Scrolls few may really know WHAT the Scrolls say. Quite frankly the Scrolls have a much different message from what we have heard from many religious leaders and authors. Possibly one reason many people have not heard the message of the Scrolls is that these very leaders and authors do not pass on the knowledge because it conflicts with their own teachings or philosophy. Another reason perhaps is that certain individuals and institutions are even today hoarding Qumran Scrolls from the public. The Dead Sea Scrolls were meant for all people of the world! The Famous Dead Sea Scrolls have become an enigma. Fifty years after their discovery more questions have been raised than have been answered. Questions such as ‘who was the mysterious "Teacher of Righteousness", the special "Star", the "Wicked Priest" , and the "Furious Young Lion?" Perhaps the most important questions are "what was the purpose of the community?" and "what is the true meanings of these strange writings?" You are about to learn the answers to these and more questions concerning these 2000 year old writings. The actual Biblical texts and terms upon which the Qumran authors base their interpretations are provided, and You will learn exactly where John the Baptist fits in with this group. You will also learn of the personal contacts of the apostles Paul and John with these people of the Khirbet(ruin) of Qumran, where the Scrolls were found. You will also learn what became of the Scrolls community and the "Star" whom they expected to meet in Damascus after they moved to that city following the death of their leader. Come with me and explore the answers to the mysteries of the Dead Sea Scrolls, secrets which have been deliberately hidden for 2000 years-for Your benefit.

Messages

Some of the specific topics addressed by the Scrolls texts and covered in this writing are Last Days events, nations in prophecy, final prophet, two witnesses, Jerusalem attacks, modern power blocks, codewords, and prophetic names. Other topics are the nature and employment of the Holy Spirit, rewards of inheritance, the Kingdom of God, tribulations, rapture, origin of Demons, and Angels. The remarkable identity of the Sixth Empire by the Scrolls is found to involve the image of a man found in chapter two of the book of Daniel and is directly connected to the "Lost Tribes of Israel". This permits an illustrated composition which includes all beasts, heads, and the image of the man found in the books of Daniel and Revelation. From the Scrolls we are to learn much about "Babylon(the ten nation beast power)", the Beast leader, the United States and the Presidents, Europe, Russia and the Eastern armies, treachery of the House of Absalom, seven churches of Revelation, Jesus and Qumran, and certain people who are mentioned in the Dead Sea Scrolls concerning their identities.

History and Location

Some 2000 years ago, both before and at the time of Jesus, a religious group existed at Qumran on the Dead Sea. Qumran is located a dozen miles from Jerusalem in the edge of the wilderness(desert) of Judea, and also a dozen miles from the mouth of the Jordan River. Bethany lies between Jerusalem and Qumran. Masada, where almost a thousand Jewish patriots chose death over defeat in 73 A.D.(Common Era), lies 25 miles South of Qumran. Machaerus, the prison/fort/palace, where Herod is thought to have imprisoned John the Baptist is twenty miles around the Dead Sea SSE of Qumran. Jericho, one of Herod Antipas' retreats, is a few miles North of Qumran near the mouth of the Jordan River and the Sea of Galilee(Tiberias) is seventy miles North up the Jordan valley. Damascus, where Saul(later Paul) went to persecute the New Covenant Christian group called "The Way" is beyond Galilee some one hundred and thirty miles NNE of Qumran. Annual rainfall in Jerusalem may average 22 inches while Qumran only receives 2 inches. This disparity of rainfall within a few miles is due to the rugged high terrain and local climatic condition, with the rain coming from the West. The Dead Sea is thirteen hundred feet below sea level and is called the lowest spot on earth. With a saline content of almost thirty percent the water is undrinkable and there are no fish. At nearby Jericho strategic desert springs exist to provide needed water. Water from a nearby spring was piped into the Qumran community. The location of Qumran within a dozen miles of Jerusalem made this a convenient location for certain New Testament connections, yet with a certain privacy due to the rugged terrain and climate. The writings(on Scrolls), were carefully hidden in nearby caves by members of the Qumran community as they departed from the site. These writings were perhaps the greatest discovery of ancient documents in history. The first of the Scrolls were discovered by Bedouin shepherds in 1947. Since that time scores of scholars, linguists, and archaeologists have devoted years and enormous efforts to the restoration, translation, and investigation of the Qumran Scrolls texts. Some eight hundred different Scrolls, many in earthenware jars, were identified in ten of the eleven caves. While many were intact some had broken apart into thousands of small fragments which required reassembly much like putting together a jigsaw puzzle. These caves were almost inaccessible. The community members may have used ropes and ladders which could have been burned as they departed. Some of the Scrolls were Biblical and have served to confirm with amazing accuracy the Old Testament books of the Bible in use today. Other Scrolls were sectarian writings of the Qumran group, including various interpretations of Biblical eschatological(e.g.-end of this age) prophecy. A third group of texts consists of consisted of apocryphal and pseudepigrapha which include writings not included in the Hebrew canon of the Bible and similar writings under the names of famous Biblical individuals. Jubilees and the Book of Enoch are among this third group. Suppression and rivalry over the materials have been a problem from the first discovery. Despite considerable efforts of men such as Herschel Shanks, the Editor of Biblical Archaeology Review magazine, it is widely believed key texts are still being withheld from public review. Though a breakthrough of sorts occurred in late 1991 when two computer experts effected an unauthorized computerized reconstruction of many of the hitherto suppressed texts this was not a complete set of all the Qumran texts. There was a 1994 announcement by the Vatican that some of the texts held by the Catholic Church would be displayed. Did this occur? If so, how many more remain undisplayed? A copy of one document was discovered prior to 1900 in Cairo, and this text is usually referred to as the Damascus Document, because it has indications of observance of a "New Covenant" in the "Land of Damascus". The document was prepared at Qumran and a copy later found it's way to Cairo. This particular set of texts is also called the "Zadokite Document" due to the numerous mentions of the "Sons of Zadok" contained therein. A copy of one Qumran Scroll was discovered at Masada. Another strange writing on copper which speaks of great treasures and employs coded Greek letters and strange directions was found apart from the other texts in cave number three. This has been called the "Copper Scroll" but it may have not been placed by the members of the community and seems to have no known connection to the other Scrolls of Qumran.

The People

Much was written about the leader of this community of "Converts" at Qumran, called the "Teacher of Righteousness", and yet another "Teacher of Righteousness(TR)" scheduled to appear in the Last Days. Therefore we see a FORMER and LATTER Prophet known as the Teacher of Righteousness. This latter TR is to appear as interpreter of end time Scriptures and prophecy as revealed to him by God, and far more details are presented in the Scrolls concerning this latter TR. Some Scrolls investigators have confused the roles of these two quite different and separate individuals in the past and this has led to incomprehensible conclusions. Some confusion is not surprising in the case of the Dead Sea Scrolls even for the most astute scholars, because the Scrolls and the circumstances surrounding them are incredible. Serious early inquirers into the Scrolls texts discovered a puzzle within a puzzle, deliberately designed by the Qumran community to confuse the finders as to the messages, the players, and the purpose! The Qumran leader and his group went to extraordinary lengths to hide and obscure any conclusive dates as well as personal and national identities. The Scrolls authors used pseudonyms or codewords to mask the actual identities of persons as well as nations written about. This masking of purpose and identities was divinely inspired to retard the understanding of the messages and events written about in the Scrolls, in part to allow reconstruction of the fragmented writings. Repeated mention of a delay is noted in the texts connected with the Final Prophet's message. It is difficult to measure how far into the delay we are at present, but as revealed in the Scrolls the delay is over when the Last Prophet becomes public. Very possibly this is the same delay mentioned in the book of Revelation and elsewhere in the Bible. Various investigators have attempted to identify these codeworded names with individuals or nations contemporary with the 165 B.C.-68 A.D. time frame. They had zero success, because no logical conclusions could ever be derived from their deductions. Though many recognized the thoughts and links between the Qumran Scrolls and the new Testament and recognized that these parallels were the more arresting because the Qumran community existed in the same area and at the same time as John the Baptist, they failed to seek and find the evidence which is so obvious in both the Bible and history. The key individual of the community was John the Baptist, and the community began over a century and a half before his birth. No doubt many of the documents were spirited away from the temple in Jerusalem before the invasion of the Seleucids under Antiochus Epiphanies c. 165 B.C. by the original inhabitants, who were likely priests and lay members of that time. When the community was vacated after John's death the scrolls were hidden to be discovered and appear some 2000 years later-NOW. In fact the community writings even predicted and defined the method of John the Baptist's death as "CUT OFF"(his head) long before John was born. John the Baptist was the symbolic "Elijah" preceding the Last Coming of the Lord and the Last Prophet is the "Elijah" who is to come just prior to the Next Coming of the Lord. Much more is written concerning the roles of these two quite separate individuals in chapter four. Several authors have tried to identify members of this Qumran community as Essenes, a mysterious quasi-religious sect existing about the same time. These people never identified themselves by name or deed as Essenes. Some scholars point out the obvious differences between the Essenes and the Qumran community and suggest more of an affinity rather than an identity. The Qumran group however did present a name for themselves, which turned out to be directly associated with certain New Testament Scriptures in the book of Acts.

Some Popular Conclusions Concerning Qumran

1. Archaeological evidence suggests the group may have abandoned and perhaps even burned the Qumran site to discourage occupancy after an earthquake. 2. The Qumran group was very religious in nature, and this religion was soundly rooted in a thorough knowledge of biblical scriptures. This particular Old Testament group at Qumran had a strange distinction-they refused to offer altar or burnt sacrifices in the temple on biblical grounds. This very same restraint was practiced by yet another distinct group mostly of Jews at the very same time. 3. Certain scholars have tried to force fit the Qumran community into a time frame of 165 B.C.-68 A.D.. This was their most costly error because no logical conclusions based on that assumption could ever be reached. Based on the finding of dated coins the first site possibly was unoccupied from about 26 B.C. to 4 B.C. and this is logically possible because of the mention of a twenty year period of confusion in the Scrolls. Therefore, there may have been light occupation or even no occupation of the site just prior to the birth of John the Baptist, with whom they would really begin to "prepare the Way". 4. The later Qumran writings disclose spiritual teachings which are virtually identical with New Testament doctrine. Many are almost word for word the writings of the Apostles Paul and John in the New Testament and have no known prior origins. In chapter two- you will see why these two NT Apostles had the distinction of actually being with this community of people. Virtually no one who has looked into the Qumran Scrolls has seriously disputed the overall correspondence of the beliefs and practices of the people of Qumran with New Testament Christians. There are just TOO MANY similarities between the two for it to be coincidence, but prior to now the proper connection simply has not been made. 5. The "Teacher of Righteousness"(leader) and the members wrote of themselves as "preparing the way" for the Lord(Isa 40:3). Serious Bible students recognize the undeniable relationship of this scripture to John the Baptist and his disciples, and you will see that this group was indeed responsible for the Dead Sea Scrolls which originated at Qumran. The Baptist spoke of Last Days judgments far ahead of his own time even in the New Testament, indicating that his own commission extended even to the end of this present age. A common mistake has been comparison of this Qumran group with New Testament teachings AFTER Christ's blood was poured out! Apples and oranges! BEFORE His blood was the OLD TESTAMENT-AFTER His blood is the NEW TESTAMENT! There is no real proof that a single member of the community remained at the Qumran site after the crucifixion. The community should be recognized as an Old Testament group preparing the way for Christianity in this present age.

Damascus

With the scroll's mentions of "going to Damascus to observe the NEW COVENANT(testament)" in the Damascus Document it seems much more logical that the site was abandoned just after John the Baptist's death. In chapter two you examine the clues in the book of Acts which connect this Qumran group to the Christian group in Damascus. You will also learn the name of the STAR the community expected to see in Damascus. Damascus is a fascinating city located below Mt. Hermon in the western edge of the Arabian desert. Numerous underground springs and water shed from mountains feed rivers which make this a fruitful oasis reaching into the desert. Naaham the leper and Abel are buried here, and some believe Damascus is the original Garden of Eden, and this may be possible because it is one of the oldest cities on earth. At certain times in history Damascus was bedecked with splendid artwork and buildings and has suffered under many destructive wars. Considering the prominence of Damascus in Biblical history it may have been selected for the new beginning of the Qumran community because of it's role in more ancient beginnings. Nimrod is said to have died on Mt. Hermon because an insect entered his ear and penetrated his brain, and Adam is said to have been created out of the red earth of the hills. while some of the tales may be mere legends others have a ring of truth based upon credible Biblical or other historical accounts.

Timing

Probably the most serious error made concerning the Dead Sea Scrolls is the proposed 68 A.D. date of abandonment of Qumran. This has had a domino effect leading to all sorts of wild speculations. Consequently we have seen implausible theories as well as mistaken identities of the players. There is, for instance, not one single shred of information within the Scrolls texts concerning any of the momentous events from 28-68 A.D. It is not realistic to assume that the group could have missed the work, death and resurrection of Christ as well as the later persecutions and acts of the apostles had they remained at Qumran. The recording of the birth of Christ by the Qumran group(see introduction) surely would have resulted in the equation of this very birth to Jesus because of Herod killing the babies. With the Qumran biblical roots so in tune with Christian teachings it is simply implausible to consider that they could have ignored totally such developments within a few miles of Qumran! The fact is the community was in the right place at the right time to carry out their mission-to PREPARE the WAY-to MAKE STRAIGHT in the DESERT- as John the Baptist and his group of disciples. Through given evidence, history, and biblical clues, logical and reasonably accurate conclusions will be presented to clarify the mission and messages of the Dead Sea Scrolls of Qumran. Judge for yourself!

Future Thrust

The overriding major thrust of the Scrolls written by or under the supervision of John the Baptist is YET FUTURE-the LAST DAYS. The Scrolls have much to say about individuals, modern nations, and even events that are yet ahead of us today. Even while placing stumbling blocks for us in this present time the Scrolls members were codifying clues which would eventually result in the proper identification of the Qumran group as disciples of John the Baptist and lead to the real messages contained within these 2000 year old writings. The very nature of the Qumran Dead Sea location with the extremely dry climate, helped to preserve the Scrolls for these long years. In almost any other environment the longest any of the scrolls would likely have lasted would be 100 years or even less. Rot, mold, rodents, and decay would have made short work of these fragile organic sheets. Those writings which the Qumran members did not themselves compose served for them as a huge library of biblical and semi biblical research material. Very likely this massive library came from a temple and was moved to Qumran to keep it from the hands of the Greeks. Though most of the Old Testament books were represented among the find the Biblical book of Isaiah proves to be the backbone of the Qumran prophecy built upon a framework of Habakkuk and Nahum, certain Psalms and a few other books of the Bible. Almost every action and verse the community employed from these books was for a specific purpose and proves to be RELEVANT Biblically to future prophecy. The community most likely began as a dispute between the early members and the Temple officials as evidenced by the MMT writing which represents lengthy debate over Old Testament law interpretations. Soon, however, a virtual revolution in thinking began to come about and later writings reflect a deeper spiritual understanding of the scriptures. Later Qumran writings exhibit spiritual teachings almost identical to the teachings of Jesus and His Apostles in the New Testament. Clues to the identity of this Qumran community were planted not only in the Scrolls but even more so in the Scriptures of the New Testament.

Messiah from Aaron

The Scrolls expected a "Messiah of Aaron and Israel" and a similar expectation is found in other ancient writings. Scrolls texts identify the Savior as the "Branch of David" and this corresponds to the kingly future role of Jesus. But what about this "of Aaron" which denotes origin in the priestly tribe of Levi? There are some interesting points to consider, including the calling of Moses and Aaron to lead Israel in the Exodus. Both were of the ancestry of Levi, with whom God was well pleased. Many other Biblical clues point to Levi as the chief tribe. Jesus came and assumed the role of High Priest, yet He is considered to be a Jew of the ancestry of Judah rather than of the ancestry of Levi(Aaron). Jesus had no human father and no blood from Joseph. The New Testament genealogy provided with Joseph as His father could be considered as Jesus being an adopted son of Joseph which would make Him a lawful son of Judah. However, according to the Hebrew law of that time the determination of nationality or racial ancestry rests upon the MOTHER rather than the father. An example of this is seen with Timothy, whose mother was a Jewess and his father was a Greek. Therefore Timothy was counted as a Jew by the Hebrews. If his mother had been a Greek and his father a Jew, Timothy would have been considered a Greek. Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, was COUSIN to Mary, mother of Jesus(Luke 1:36). Elizabeth was a descendant of Levi("daughter of Aaron", Luke 1:5). Given the practice by the Levites of marriage permitted only to a virgin within the tribe of Levi(Aaron), Elizabeth would have had a bloodline Aaronic mother and father as well. This makes Mary of the ancestral strain of Levi. Also by His mother Mary, Jesus was also of Judah("David"-Rom 1:3). Therefore, through Mary, Christ was born with a human bloodline ancestry of LEVI(the priestly line) and JUDAH(the kingly line) of Israel. Being a descendant of Levi, Jesus became first of all HIGH PRIEST. As a descendant of Judah, Jesus will later become KING OF KINGS! The Dead Sea Scrolls were correct concerning the Lord.

Chapter 2-"The Way" at Qumran

Christian Connections.

Ten of the eleven almost inaccessible caves near the Qumran ruins produced texts or scrolls. Cave four produced 500 of the total known 800 scrolls eventually found. A handful of men were given the bulk of the texts and fragments found in cave four. Though these men did not find or even purchase the Dead Sea Scrolls it is believed by some experts that many texts have not yet been made public or available to other scholars. Other men such as Yigael Yadin used personal money to buy the War Scroll and promptly published it in the form of a book, making this find available to all. Geza Vermes and others also promptly published translations of the texts which became available to them. Ten thousand or more articles have been written in addition to the scores of books on the Qumran Scrolls. During the early years of the Scrolls investigations the Qumran community was considered by some to be a "sect" or "cult" with a distasteful connotation. In more recent years this opinion has been replaced by a much deeper respect among those who have made a prolonged study of the texts. The people of the community had one thing in common-a strong desire to follow the instruction of the Bible.

New Testament

Rational thought brings those contemplating the Scrolls to conclude that these writings must be measured against the New Testament. This is so because Jesus came to bring spiritual understanding to a higher level for more people and the New Testament more clearly reflects His teachings. The New Testament reveals who met and taught the Qumran disciples of John the Baptist after they left for Damascus! There is no way to mistake the marked Qumran "flavor" of the writings of the Apostles Paul and John. The terminology used by these two New Testament writers mirror a reflection of the Qumran writings of John and his disciples. The New Testament is replete with similarities with Qumran. For example we find a lifestyle of communal nature practiced by the early Christians in the book of Acts(4:32-5:11). These communal practices were instituted early on in the present covenant and seem to be a link to Qumran as the last recognized Old Testament group under John the Baptist. Also, Qumran members were mostly celibate men as was Jesus and likely John the Baptist. Remember Jesus' mention of those who had made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom? Could this refer to the Qumran members?

The Way

In the Damascus Document and the Community Rule the Qumran group referred to itself a number of times as "THE WAY, obviously adapted to their commission theme "PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD"(Isa 40:3). The strongest case of all for John the Baptist to be the Qumran leader is simply the commission he had "to prepare the way of the Lord", spoken of clearly in both old and New Testament scriptures. This was the motto for the Scrolls community, and "The Way" became their name. commission. The Hebrew language of the Scrolls has no provision for capitalization. The Scrolls use phrases such as "those who depart from the way," and "for 20 years they were like blind men groping for the way", and "those who departed from the way.", and "those who pervert the way", and "those who have chosen the way" in the Community Rule and Damascus documents. By mentally capitalizing "The Way" it would become clear that it is used as a name, but with no capitalization it is easily overlooked as the group name.

The Apostle Paul

In the New Testament book of Acts(Acts 9:2, 19:9 & 23, 22:4, 24:14) we see the first Christian group assigned a name, referred to as "THE WAY". We find Saul(Paul) setting out to persecute The Way at Damascus and being blinded and converted by Christ. This occurs some time after the resurrection of Christ. Paul is instructed and begins his ministry in Damascus, not returning to Jerusalem for 3 years(Gal 1:15-18, Acts 9:1-27). Paul had personal contact with these disciples of Qumran in Damascus from about 37-40 A.D.. Little wonder the writings of the apostle Paul reflect so much of the Qumran terminology. When the Qumran group moved to Damascus the name(The way) would stick because of the work the group was involved in. Why would the group of early Christians at Damascus be called "THE WAY" except they had been part of John the Baptist's group preparing the way? There is no other logical answer. The Damascus move by the disciples of John the Baptist after his death was a brilliant move as proven by future events. The move placed the Qumran group out of the reach of Herod Antipas, who would have been out for their blood as well as others under his dominion in Galilee and the Dead Sea region. When Herod Agrippa I took over Antipas' domain and also Judea and other areas and murdered James, these Qumran disciples were still out of his reach. The early church with Paul close at hand was soon based out of nearby Antioch and grew strong even after most of the Apostles had been martyred. Ignatius became the leader until he too was sent to the arena to die. The early writings of Ignatius reflect a highly organized church structure based almost exactly on the Qumran structure and the Didache and other doctrinal writings seem to lean heavily upon the Scrolls of Qumran. Hellenistic leanings and other doctrines seem to have gained strength against this early church which apparently lost much of it's early teachings. This may be at least part of the apostasy, of which Jude and the Apostle John spoke later on. Somewhere during these early centuries appeared "The Testament of the Twelve Patriarchs" which is an interesting set of writings based partly upon Genesis 49 and partly on Psalms and other Bible prophecy. This "Testaments" as well as the "Book of Enoch" were apparently considered Scriptural by the early Christian leaders, but several centuries later fell into disuse and possibly confiscation by the church at Rome. The resemblance of these "Testaments" to the Qumran writings is remarkable and they use the expression "Lamb of God" as John the Baptist did. The main content seems to be the ANNOUNCEMENT of Jesus's coming, both past and future. The New Testament connotes John the Baptist, in some way, announced Jesus before His appearance but does not state exactly how. Could this have been a written notice prepared by the Baptist from Qumran? The text is written in an announcement form and would have certainly served the purpose. The "Testaments" may well be of very ancient origin and either the Baptist or someone connected with Qumran likely authored it or added portions.

Street called Straight

Have you ever noticed a STREET address given in the bible? At least one is given, and it is given concerning Paul and "The Way" to a member named Ananias. The Lord instructs Ananias to go to the house of Judas on "A STREET CALLED STRAIGHT"(Acts 9:11) and baptize Saul. Does this STRAIGHT ring a bell? Here again is part of the Isa 40:3 COMMISSION of John the Baptist to .'make STRAIGHT in the desert a highway for our God". Coincidence? More like deliberate design.

John the Baptist's Head

An even stronger link between John the Baptist and the Christian group which Paul joined at Damascus is the finding of the HEAD of John the Baptist in a crypt in Damascus in a building named "The Church of Saint John the Baptist" known to early Christians(Encl. Britannica, 1976, Damascus). Later the building became the Umayyad Mosque under Moslem rule. This becomes even more lucid when the logistics of Qumran and Damascus are compared to the circumstances of John's death. In fact it makes perfect sense. More evidence of Qumran than John's head may have been placed in that crypt.

Prison and the Dance of Death

From the details given in the Qumran Thanksgiving Hymns of his own capture John the Baptist finished at least these verses after being locked up by Herod Antipas. In these Scrolls verses(1QH), which describe John the Baptist's binding and imprisonment, the prison is described as "inescapable", and this certainly fits the description of the mountain prison/fortress of Machaerus on the eastern side of the Dead Sea, about 20 miles from Qumran where John is said by Josephus to have been kept. Josephus was the famous Jewish historian of the time. We learn from New Testament scriptures that John was bound and imprisoned(Matt 14:3). His disciples visited him there while he was in prison, and the Baptist retained leadership even after imprisonment. Not only was the Dead Sea area part of Herod's domain but he also had a retreat at Jericho near Qumran, so it is understandable that Herod and the Baptist knew each other. Though Herod may have feared John as a prophet as many people did,,he wanted to be rid of John. Herod would have liked to kill John earlier but was afraid of the people. John the Baptist was kept in prison for a year or more, but at one point Herod gave a feast for the officials of Galilee probably at Tiberias the capital some 70 miles north of Qumran. Salome, the daughter of Herodias pleased Herod with a dance. As her reward she requested-"Give me John the Baptist's head here on a platter (Matt 14:8)". With misgivings Herod sent to Machaerus prison to have John's head removed and brought to Galilee where he presented it as requested. John's disciples recovered the body, buried it and informed Jesus of this(verse 8). Tradition states this burial was at Aenon Salim(present day Nablus) where John had earlier baptized between Qumran and Galilee. The disposition of John's head was not mentioned in the New Testament. The congregation at Qumran might have waited until the death and resurrection of Jesus to move to Damascus, but two facts argue that their move was IMMEDIATELY after John's death. First, John's head would have needed to be recovered quickly. No doubt even Herod would not have chosen to keep a human head around as an ornament. The second reason is the specific circumstances of the recorded activity of Jesus shortly after the news of John's death. You may recall that a bit earlier Christ had chosen the twelve apostles, commissioned them and sent them out.

The "STAR" at Damascus

When the community mentioned observing the NEW COVENANT in Damascus, implication of instruction by ANOTHER SOURCE was given. This special NEW COVENANT instructor was identified as the "STAR" of NUM 24:17 out of Israel, which is a KEY and VERY IMPORTANT pivotal verse considering the Scrolls heavy emphasis on this fourth oracle of Balaam. Also this particular "INTERPRETER" is to come to Damascus according to a midrash of Isa 7/Amos 5/Num 24:17 found in the Damascus(CD) document as follows: "I will exile the tabernacle of your king and the bases of your statues from my tent to Damascus"- (interpretation)="the king is the congregation and the bases of the statues are the books of the prophets which Israel has despised. The STAR is the interpreter of the law who shall come to Damascus".

[Please do not jump to the conclusion that the Star is also the Scepter who batters Moab- that will be covered in the last two chapters). Another text connoted that the observance of the feast days would be affected by the new covenant change, which was one of the basic changes. Who can this special "interpreter" of the NEW COVENANT laws be? Who would be even more qualified than John the Baptist? Who had a star as the sign of His birth? Who is called the "Morning Star" in the book of Revelation? The MASTER himself of course-Jesus Christ! After John's death the Qumran converts could hide the Scrolls, pack and likely be in Damascus within one or two weeks. If Christ was to fulfill the "STAR" role He would have to arrange to be in Damascus at some point in time, possibly even after His resurrection. However, evidence strongly suggests that Jesus chose to go to Damascus SOON after John's death only allowing enough time for the disciples of the Baptist to move to damascus from Qumran. A careful examination of the New Testament gospel accounts place Jesus TWICE in position for the Damascus journey within less than two weeks. The Berkeley version places Him as traveling "UP THE CENTER OF THE DECAPOLIS REGION"(Mar 7:31), which would be virtually certain to place Him in the path of the Qumran group, as if to intercept them. Jesus is then located a short time later heading in the direction of Damascus at Caesarea Philippi and probably the peak of Mt. Hermon. Mt. Hermon is very high, visible even from Galilee, and is the likely location for the transfiguration. When they came down the mountain to meet a large crowd this could well have been at Damascus as it is downslope from Mt. Hermon. The two instances which distinctly place Jesus a short distance from Damascus just after John's death cannot be discounted, especially since these are the ONLY known trips by Christ to this area. There is also a Damascus claim that Christ once came there(Mirror to Damascus, Colin Thurbon, Little Brown & Co., 1967). Considering the future Christian role of Damascus, Jesus would not be likely to forego the opportunity for a visit in any case. Damascus like Jerusalem is ancient and has always been a prominent city. Damascus became an important early Christian center and probably a refuge for other Christians after Herod Agrippa 1 came into power in Judea. Even the Syriac language, similar to Aramaic, became known as the early language of Eastern Christianity. Especially since it was His ONLY known trip to the area. The disciples carried John'-s head to Damascus and placed it in the crypt there as an indisputable proof of John's relationship to these early Christians. The fact was common knowledge among them and appears in recorded history. The location of John's head in Damascus serves as proof of his connection with the Christian group "The Way" in that city, who were his disciples relocated from Qumran on the Dead Sea, cementing the Qumran-Christian connection. The identity of Christ as the "STAR" of Num 24:17, and as Jesus is doubtless correct. Only Jesus and the angels are identified as "Stars" Biblically. A mural from the third century catacomb of Priscilla, an early church leader of Corinth and friend of Paul, shows the baby Jesus and His mother Mary with a man pointing to a star in the sky. This has been tied to the Star of Num 24:17 with Balaam thought to be the pointing man and seems to indicate this identity was known among the early Christians. The mural is displayed in Rome("The Bible Companion"-Wm. Neil, McGraw-Hill, 1961). Early Christian writings of Justin Martyr identify Jesus with this same "Star" of Num 24:17.

The Decapolis was a group of ten cities which had banded together for common defense from South and East of Galilee North to Damascus. When notified of John's death Jesus was in the Nazareth or lower Galilee area. The approximate Decapolis area concerned is circled on the map which follows: [The route from Qumran to Damascus is shown over an ancient trade route].

The map on the following page reflects these events and movements:

author note:sorry !the map would not print on hypertext

The Decapolis is located such that if they traveled east of Galilee the Qumran group would have surely passed through it en route to Damascus. During these first days after John's death Jesus performed the two feedings of the multitudes, and this too has a direct correspondence with the former work of John the Baptist and Christ as relative to the final work yet to come. Jesus may also have been sending a message to Herod Antipas and the world that John might be dead but the story was not over. The transfiguration on the mountain probably also pointed to the new covenant on a new mountain, and this new mountain(mt. Hermon) overlooks both Galilee and Damascus.

Bear This Cup

Shortly after these above activities Jesus began to inform His disciples of His impending death and His resurrection after three days. Eventually He informed His disciples that THEY TOO WOULD DRINK OF HIS CUP meaning they too would suffer persecution as Jesus did. Afterwards we find recorded in the Bible and secular history that the early Christians were indeed severely persecuted, tortured, thrown into the arena with lions and killed in various ways. The Dead Sea Scrolls and the Bible scriptures speak of this persecution as a partial fulfillment of a later persecution. Many events in biblical prophecy occur more than once. The first happening may be considered as a very similar MODEL or EXAMPLE of a future event yet to occur. The former attacks on Jerusalem by Babylon and Rome are a good example of this multiple occurrence of biblical events. The Scrolls vividly indicate that both the persecution of the people of God and attacks on Jerusalem will OCCUR AGAIN. More details are in Chapters 6 & 7.

John's Silence

Yet more proof exists which concerns the Apostle John, who along with Andrew came to Jesus from John the Baptist. In the New Testament this Apostle John writes as if he had a personal knowledge of the Baptist. Over the years students of the Bible have remarked about the prolonged periods of silence from John which lasted almost two years broken only by short accounts. While all four of the gospel writers had lapses none were as obvious as John's, and it seems at times as if John were somehow separated from the other three. The Qumran influence is indisputably obvious in all of the Johnine writings in the New Testament just as with the writings of Paul. Close study and lengthy initial personal contact are the only satisfactory explanation. This marked silence begins after news of the death of John the Baptist and continues until the raising of Lazarus shortly before the FINAL entry of Christ into Jerusalem. The silence was broken by John only during holy day festivals in Jerusalem. John the Apostle was present of course during the choosing, sending out, and return of the twelve before news of John the Baptist's death. During all this later time of silence there seems to be no mention of the Apostle John being with the others at interim times by writers of Matthew, Mark or Luke. ' Considering all these factors the possibility exists that the Apostle John served as leader of "The Way" at Damascus" after John the Baptist's death. The Baptist remained in charge of his disciples even during his imprisonment as evidenced by the new testament. Jesus may have left the Apostle John with the Damascus group during His visit there. Such absences may be the reason John's account seems different from the three "synoptic" gospels of Matthew, Mark & Luke. Again, only the Apostle John wrote about Lazarus, and this would be natural if he had been a friend of Lazarus earlier. Bethany is even closer to Qumran than Jerusalem. Bethany would have been a convenient point for contact between Jesus and the Qumran community after Jesus was baptized. With the Apostle John away from Jesus and the others so frequently, the wider gaps in his accounts would be understandable. During the holy day periods when John does write all would naturally assemble in Jerusalem. The time shortly before and after John's death would have required John's presence. Notice that the calling and commission of the twelve is connected to John's death and the feeding of the multitude. These are related to the puzzle of the twelve and seven leftover baskets which we will discuss later in another Scrolls revelation which concerns the twelve Apostles and the seven churches of the book of Revelation. Years later the Apostle John was active in Asia Minor until his death and this too would have been consistent with his involvement in Damascus. Luke too was apparently active as Paul's companion in these areas and Luke wrote the book of Acts. Luke also came from Antioch. Historians and archeologists have recognized Luke as a historian of the greatest ability, recording precise and accurate information in everything he wrote. According to some no historical record of that time comes close to matching the precision of the writings of Luke. Yet Luke's writings do not possess the Qumran character as do those of Paul and John. The authorship of the book of Hebrews has been debated. Because of the striking Qumran character of Hebrews, it is evident that if the author was not Paul or John, it was another longtime Qumran member or protégée. The early Antioch church where the followers of Jesus were first named "Christians" resembled the Qumran structure in many ways. In just one example the "overseers" of Antioch(Greek language) served the same functions as the Qumran "Guardians"(Hebrew language). Theologians have long wondered how the Antioch church could form so suddenly, far in advance of other early churches. The hierarchy and the early writings which outline the "way of the two spirits" are so similar that intimate contact seems a certainty. After Paul's conversion the majority of the Damascus group may have moved to Antioch to begin the early Antioch church.

Early Church and The Baptist

The Apostle Paul clearly indicated that his conversion and basic instruction did not come from the Apostles at Jerusalem. The marked influence from the Qumran disciples of John the Baptist on the teachings of Paul as well as the early Christian church reveals a new dimension on the preparatory work done by John the Baptist which had a much more profound effect than ever before considered. The explanation of Paul in Acts 26:17-18, for instance, is but ONE of many of his sayings or writings which directly reflects the Scrolls of Qumran virtually word for word. When reading the Qumran Thanksgiving Hymns(Hodayot) any serious bible student should quickly conclude that if Jesus or His Apostles did not write this the only other candidate would be John the Baptist. The influence of the Baptist can therefore be traced through those we have discussed as well as Ignatius of Corinth and Polycarp of Smyrna and their students of the first and second centuries with a minimum of distortion. After John's decapitation in prison and his head taken by Herod's men to Galilee, a few of John's disciples most likely went around the Dead Sea immediately went around to the Machaerus prison/fortress and claimed John's body. They carried it up the Jordan Valley and buried it, then proceeded north to inform Jesus who was in the Nazareth/Galilee area at that time. The other members likely proceeded to pack and prepare for the journey which would bid Qumran farewell. one or more of those who buried John's body would come back and inform the members of the details of the rendezvous and meetings with Jesus. After hiding the Scrolls they moved to Damascus. This may have occurred in the spring of 29 A.D. The activity of Christ connotes a meeting with the Qumran members en route to Damascus and then a trip to Damascus shortly afterwards. Damascus was the only population center downslope from Mt. Hermon and the Qumran members probably assembled the great crowd mentioned, which met Jesus. There may be much yet to learn from the early church concerning Damascus and Antioch. Why have these proofs not been noticed in almost 50 years? Because as a result of the assumption of the wrong date no one looked for them.

The Community

The Scrolls were simply not written for use in the last century B.C. or the first century A.D.! Therefore let us conclude by simple logic that the Scrolls were purposed for the very time they were found and translated today!!! The writers of the scrolls knew they were not the "end time" group because they wrote of the "last days" and made a distinction of a different time with a very different "Teacher of Righteousness", and they professed and worked to hide their knowledge. This hidden knowledge was not to be discovered and used for almost 2000 years. The Dead Sea Scrolls may well be the "hidden manna" spoken of by Jesus in Rev 2:17, hidden and preserved all those years for use today-("manna" representing instruction). The Community at Qumran knew that they were in the last days of the Old Testament age as the texts reflect. It was truly the end of the age for them as the old covenant passed away; consequently, some of the verses did apply to their own situation as well as to ours some 2000 years later. Let us use a bit of reason and look at the Qumran Dead Sea Scrolls as to purpose and timeliness. The community knew there that a new covenant was about to dawn! They also expected Christ! They called Isaiah 40:3 their commission(prepare the way)! How could they have known these things without divine inspiration? It is simply not reasonable to conclude this group existed as a coincidence within 12 miles of the heart of Jerusalem in John the Baptist's backyard when these things were coming about WITHOUT INVOLVEMENT! The Qumran group could not have known of it without being privy and also being involved. The baptizing work of John the Baptist at Bethany and the Jordan River was in close proximity to Qumran, and John was a well known figure in his day. Yet no single location other than Qumran has been suggested for John's base of operation, and the desert of Judea is a small place. How could anyone believe two large groups with identical missions, the same beliefs, and proper resources could exist in that small desert at the same time? Some Greek scripts were found in cave seven at Qumran which some believe to be part of certain New Testament writings. This would be possible if these texts were deposited in the cave sometime after 30 A.D., perhaps by Paul, John or another of the original members during a period when the site was not being occupied.

Jesus

Besides being the "STAR" Jesus is spoken of in the Qumran Scrolls in several ways. one of the most used of these is the "well-spring of life", as in the following: all sinful men-- no man shall approach the well-spring of life--who seeing has not discerned, and considering has not believed in the fountain of life- [1QH=cave 1/Qumran/Thanksgiving Hymns]. Just as soon as Jesus had established His prominence over John in baptizing, the very next action He took was to go into Samaria to Jacob's well where He informed the woman that He was the source of LIVING WATER and a FOUNTAIN OF WATER SPRINGING UP INTO EVERLASTING LIFE(John 4:1-14). This appears once again to be a deliberate tie-in of Jesus to the Qumran texts as a proof of relationship.

Bar the Door!

The unique Old Testament practice of this Qumran group of NOT offering burnt or animal sacrifices in the temple was shared by Christ and His disciples during the more than three years before His supreme sacrifice. There is not one single recorded instance of their participating directly in the burnt offerings, though they apparently did not rebuke others for doing so. What authority did the Qumran group use biblically to cease from this activity? Very simply they recognized that God had placed a moratorium on these offerings in the book of Malachi(1:10-11 & 3:3b-4) which canceled them until all religious leaders have been purged by God and God's name and fame is exalted throughout the earth and the Kingdom is established. Jesus of course, being the author, knew this also. Both Jesus' group and the Qumran group of the Baptist observed the holy days but without the offerings. These two groups, at the same time, and on the same wave-length, were practicing identical doctrine. The Scrolls group professed to do just as God said and BAR THE DOOR to the temple. Even today there are several Christian groups which keep the Levitical holy days just as John's and Jesus' disciples did before the new covenant. This is mentioned because there is a clue based on this practice which concerns the final prophet. The primary instruction concerning the law which Jesus would have provided the community in Damascus was the change in the Old Testament Levitical holy days which were no longer to be required after His crucifixion. This is consistent with the pointed mention in the Scrolls of the Levitical feast days in connection with the new covenant.

Qumran Changes

Though Jesus and John had not met earlier they were indeed marching to the beat of the same drummer-God the Father! This explains why both groups taught and practiced the very same spiritual principles which is the "exact interpretation of the law" spoken of in the Scrolls. This Qumran community existed over several generations, and some investigators have failed to recognize it as a SPIRITUALLY CHANGING group. The community existed over several generations and the writings reflect a range of spiritual change from Old Testament rituals at the beginning to a far better understanding of spiritual principles as they prepared the way for the new covenant in the Baptist's time. The Qumran community probably formed initially as the result of a dispute with the Jerusalem temple leadership as clearly demonstrated by the MMT Document of detailed rituals of Old Testament law. Yet even the earlier writings of the Qumran community, such as the Damascus document, obviously written long before John's birth, exhibit a remarkable extraction of spiritual principles though somewhat heavy on rituals. The Thanksgiving Hymns(lQH) of a later Herodian style of writing and Biblical commentaries which would logically be the Baptist's writings were clearly of later composition and contain little if any emphasis on ritual worship. They emphasize spiritual worship instead. This is a natural development because the Old and New Testaments teach the same basic principles. Christ did not change the law, only amplified it as The Baptist did for his disciples. These converts from Qumran still had much Christian work to be done in Damascus and other cities to the North of Jerusalem. Stephen and others in Samaria may have been closely associated with these members. Again in the New Testament we find Apollos, a church leader obviously somewhat instructed by John the Baptist, very adept at Christian principles even before contact with other Christians.

Sent by God

Now we are beginning to get an idea of the expanded role of this "man named John, sent by God". Little wonder Jesus remarked about John's greatness! The very fact that Jesus Christ elevated John's greatness above all men ever born provides John the Baptist with a unique authority, even above Moses and the Apostles of Christ. Why else would Jesus have emphasized this except to underwrite the hidden work of the Qumran Scrolls? With these statements by Jesus the inspiration of any texts found to be written by the Baptist are given unrivaled authority second only to Jesus himself. Certain early Christian writings such as the "Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs" also bear a remarkable Qumran similarities, and this one could have been interpolated by John the Baptist, as it seems to read like an advance notice of Jesus' coming as the "Lamb of God". They would not have left such writings at Qumran because this would have been a dead giveaway of their identity. But who knows what else may turn up in perhaps the Damascus or Antioch areas. John the Baptist and his disciples had done their work concerning the last coming of Jesus by the time of his death and made it plain he was decreasing while Jesus was increasing. Virtually nothing is in the Dead Sea Scrolls which would have been of further benefit to the work of God at that time, and close examination of the texts leaves no doubt that the scrolls primary focus is the Last Days of the present age. The location of Qumran in the desert of Judea within a few miles of Jerusalem was strategic in many ways for the purpose of preparation of the Scrolls. A nearby oasis named En Feshka today, similar to the desert springs of Jericho, appears to have supplied piped water for Qumran. The large deposit of buried animal bones and over one thousand eating vessels found at Qumran suggest attendance of large numbers of people on certain occasions. This fits well with John's fame and popularity of the time. Again it is inconceivable that two so similar groups professing the same commission, walking the same walk and talking the same talk, with adequate reference materials could exist in the small Desert of Judea at the same time. Notice also the glaring New Testament lack of information on the whereabouts of John the Baptist during his time in the desert. The silence seems quite deliberate with the very purpose of obscuring his activity.

The Apostle John

Which brings us to the next point. Early Christian tradition has it that the Apostle John had been a disciple of John the Baptist before becoming Jesus' disciple. The terminology of this Apostle's New Testament writings has a Qumran flavor very similar to Paul's. There is considerable New Testament Scripture to substantiate the association of the Apostle John with Qumran. The first point is this-the Apostle John seems to be giving a first hand account of The Baptist's encounter at Bethany with the delegation of Levites and priests sent from Jerusalem(John 1:19-28). Two days later John the Baptist pointed out Jesus as the Lamb of God to two of his disciples. These two disciples followed Jesus. One of these two was named as Andrew, brother of Peter(vs 35-42). It is curious that John did not provide the other name. He surely knew. Probably because the other disciple was John himself. Andrew went to his brother Peter and brought him to Jesus. Likely John did the same for his brother James because later Jesus commanded these four to follow Him and made them His disciples. The four brothers were partners(Luke 5:1-11). The reasonable conclusion is that the Apostle John had earlier been at Qumran under John the Baptist's leadership, just as vividly noted in his writings. Only the Apostles Paul and John have the striking Qumran terminology in their writings, though all of the other New Testament writers have the same message. The authorship of the book of Hebrews is open to question and this writing also has a distinct Qumran characteristic and was clearly written by a member or associate of the community.

Teacher of Righteousness

The leader of Qumran, and prime author of all the later Scrolls texts, was therefore none other than John the Baptist, the "TEACHER OF RIGHTEOUSNESS". The Baptist was a forerunner to Jesus and also of the Last Prophet yet to appear today. The writings at Qumran prove to be perfectly accurate prophetic predictions not only of Christ as the "STAR" of Num 24:17 but of the Judea destruction around 70 A.D., John the Baptist's death, Herod's involvement(as "twice fornication"), the community move to Damascus, the initiation of a NEW COVENANT, and other yet to be recognized events. The accurate fulfillment and Biblical accuracy of the Qumran group stands the stringent Biblical test of TRUE PROPHECY and will be recognized as such by those willing to accept their role. These Scrolls predictions explain perfectly the "wrath to come" John spoke of when he called the Pharisees and Sadducees "brood of Vipers"(Matt 3:7). He knew of the coming desolation from the Romans of c. 70 A.D., as Jesus did. The community knew forty years would pass from the killing of John the Baptist until the Roman military desolation of Judea would come. The Scrolls record this very knowledge(Damascus Document): After the Teacher of Righteousness of the community is cut off- until the end of the fighting men who turned back with the Liar there will be ABOUT FORTY YEARS-". And so it happened-from the death of John the Baptist until the destruction of 70 A.D.=ABOUT FORTY YEARS, since John was killed shortly before 30 A.D.. The verses "my father did not know me and my mother abandoned me to you", included in the introduction, fit John the Baptist perfectly, as John is shown in the gospels even as a child living in the desert. The Jewish historian Josephus substantiates this desert upbringing.

Jesus in the Scrolls

Christ is spoken of in the Scrolls in several more ways: In the Scrolls midrash of the Last Days interpretation of 2 Sam 7:12-13 & Amos 9:14 He is called the "Branch of David"- 'He is the "Branch of David" who shall arise with the "Interpreter of the Law" to rule in Zion at the end of time.' [This "interpreter of the law" obviously refers to the latter human prophet while Zion is of course Jerusalem]. The Scrolls also refer to Jesus as "wonderful counselor" and "Prince of Lights". In another text He is called "son of the most high".

Melchizedak

The Scrolls texts imply godly attributes when writing of Melchizedak, equating Melchizedak to the "anointed one-the Prince" of Daniel 9:25 to bring salvation and put down Satan(Melchizedak document from cave 11). This can only describe Christ. And we do see Jesus' present office of high priest was held by Him in the past as Melchizedak(Gen 14:18-20, Heb 7:15-17). Truly He holds many offices and wears many crowns(hats).

The New Covenant

If the Qumran group was not referring to the Christian "NEW COVENANT" in the land of DAMASCUS, what could they have been talking about? No other answer is reasonable. They were EXPERTS in Biblical text and would not have grasped at any notion not well founded. Considering their faithfulness to God it is the writer's personal belief these Scrolls represent God's promise in Mal 3:16 concerning a "book of remembrance" at least in part. The book of Enoch was included among the Scrolls. In the Enoch texts and two other similar writings(Ezra and Moses), emphasis was given to secret writings which were to be hidden and preserved for the use of those who live on the earth at the end of days. The Scrolls of Qumran fit this description as no other writings would.

Elijah Come Alive

The "Teacher of Righteousness" of the Scrolls has a FORMER and a LATTERmanifestation and both individuals are Prophet/Teacher figures. Only one promised Prophet in the Bible corresponds to this-the symbolic "Elijah" Prophet promised in the book of Malachi, the New Testament gospels, and elsewhere in the Bible under various terms(Plumb line, Latter Rain etc.). The Jewish Karaites once acknowledged the leader of Qumran as being this former "ELIJAH". As we know from Christ, John the Baptist was the former "Elijah"(Mark 9:13 and elsewhere). The "Elijah" prophets are also called the "former rain" and the "latter rain" of the book of Joel. Even the Hebrew words used in the Scrolls for "Teacher of Righteousness" also translate literally "latter rain". Considering the Scrolls texts and the biblical clues no other reasonable explanation is possible except that John the Baptist was the Qumran leader. We know from NT scriptures that Jesus identified him as the former symbolic "Elijah" come alive. Therefore even the Qumran title fits John the Baptist perfectly. If they were not John the Baptist and his disciples they were certainly fulfilling his commission, were they not?

Relocation to Damascus

If we do not firmly accept that the Qumran Scrolls group vacated the site after John's death prior to the new covenant marked by Jesus' blood, the texts would be confusing. But accepting their move to Damascus to carry on as early Christians would make good sense. No doubt someone occupied the site after this group left, possibly Jewish zealots in opposition to Roman rule, but they were not connected to the Scrolls. Remember this site was only a few miles from Jerusalem. When the Romans attacked the Qumran site in 68 A.D., it was obviously a military target, and it is not likely the group occupying the site at the time would have had enough time to place the Scrolls. Most military attacks do not provide adequate time to run much less allow a methodical concealment of hundreds of scrolls in separate caves. Buried coins were also found and since the community would have likely carried the money along with them, the coins were probably buried later by the patriots. Also if the Qumran community had been wiped out in 68 A.D., how could their teachings have spread to the cities to the North in Syria, Asia Minor, and eventually the whole earth?

Qumran

The following chart of Qumran activity may help to paint a mental picture: ________________________________________________________________________ _ Early Qumran Light Activity Prepare Way Other Occupants perhaps 196-24 B.C 24-4 B.C. 4 B.C.-29 A.D. 30-68 A.D. build and collect texts "20 years of base for work groping". Of John as leader dispute with Temple Until his death. (early writings) (later writings) ________________________________________________________________________ _ Looking at this time line it should be clear that the Scrolls of prime interest, authored by John the Baptist, were likely written after John became 20 or so years of age, approximately 15-29 A.D.. The 4 B.C. date is near the approximate birth year of John and Jesus. What does not fit?

Masada

An unusual find at the Masada location where almost a thousand Jewish patriots chose mass suicide over surrender in 73 A.D. was a large fragment of a Qumran document(of Sabbath songs). This seems fair proof that Jewish patriots occupied the Qumran site after 30 A.D. This scroll could have been deliberately left unhidden by the disciples at Qumran in order to leave a false trail, knowing that a scroll of songs was valuable and anyone who found it would carry it off with them.

Teachings

The similarities of the later Qumran Scrolls to New Testament teachings are recognized by all who have ever looked into the Scrolls, far too many to list here. Just a few are included for a general idea: -in Your goodness is much forgiveness and your mercy is towards the sons of Your goodwill. I have trusted in your grace. I have no righteous deeds-I lean on the abundance of Your mercy. the mighty winds- before they became angels of holiness... [above from Thanksgiving Hymns from cave 1, DSS]. rebuke one another in truth, humility, and charity-on the same day. spirit of truth-offering of the lips. (God) has appointed man two spirits in which to walk until the time of His visitation: the spirits of truth and falsehood --- the spirits of truth and falsehood struggle in the minds of men and they walk in both wisdom and folly. According to his portion of truth so hates a man falsehood and according to his inheritance in the domain of falsehood so is he wicked and hates the truth--that the destiny of all the living may be according to the spirit within them at the time of the visitation. The angel of Darkness leads all the children of righteousness astray, and until his end all their sin, iniquities, wickedness, and unlawful deeds are caused by his dominion in accordance with the mysteries of God. Every one of their chastisements and seasons of distress shall be brought about by the rule of his persecution; for all his spirits seek the overthrow of the sons of light ... The Thanksgiving Hymns(Hodayot) and other texts use or introduce the following expressions: Sons of light--uncover the heart--righteousness of God--Belial--works of flesh/law-- congregation of God--bear fruit--fruit of the lips(as praise)-God draws a man near to Him-- resist spirits of evil--led by the holy spirit--love God with all your heart and keep His commandments--great tribulations--God of knowledge--.

Chapter 3-Codewords Identified

The use of the symbolic name "STAR" for Jesus has already been discussed and many more symbolic or ancestral(bloodline) names are used by the Scrolls authors of which the -vast majority concern persons and events yet in the future.

Bloodlines and Symbology The same system of symbolic name use is also found in virtually all Biblical prophecy. In the Bible the symbolic prophetic names Tyre, Babylon, Sidon, Assyria, and Edom are clearly key players in coming events and as such must equate to modern nations as a type. Also many bloodline names such as Israel, Judah, Elam, Ephraim, and Manasseh are included and these no doubt equate to modern nations as well if we but realized the identity intended by the Scriptures. The very existence of symbolic names in the Bible demands an eventual revelation. Despite many sincere attempts, no real success has been achieved to date by modern theologians.

Tyre

A good example of a symbolic name use in the Bible is provided by an examination of the description of symbolic "Tyre". This "Tyre" is definitely a powerful national player in future events according to the Bible, and some tend to believe the "Prince of Tyre" is another name for the Beast Leader. This theory that he is the Beast Leader does not stand up to examination however because of the simple fact this "Prince of Tyre" meets his death in the midst of the seas(Eze 28:8) while the Beast leader along with the False Prophet is thrown alive into the lake Of fire(Rev 19:20) to perish. The "King of Tyre"(Ez 28:11-19) is another term for Satan Because of the two quite different deaths we realize this leader of "Tyre" cannot be the Beast Leader, but instead is the leader(President?) of a prominent nation which we are about to identify. Let us perform a bit of detective work to determine just who this symbolic "Tyre" is. As we notice the Biblical clues concerning Tyre there is only ONE possible nation on the face of the earth which could ever fit this description. In Ezekiel 27 & 28, Isaiah 23:1-15 and Zechariah we find these details of Tyre: surrounded b@ seas-merchant of great trade-wealth and vast prosperity-Tarshish(oriental)a merchant-Tubal/Meschesh(Russian) trades with-mixed peoples in armies-perfect in beauty- crowning city-jewel of nations-wealth. The list goes on in considerable detail and there is simply no nation which accurately fits this description except the United States, twist and squirm as we will to rationalize it away. Unless the Bible is wrong or slack in providing proper information no other logical conclusion is possible. The answer will still come up the same- a perfect description. Therefore this 'ruler(or prince) of Tyre" found in Ezek 28:1 represents the President of the United States whereas the "King of Tyre" of the same chapter verse 12 represents Satan the Devil. Please keep this in mind as a given also: the United States and other nations may have several Biblical names because the Biblical pattern often includes several names such as those for Christ and Jerusalem. Jerusalem may be called Zion, city of David, Ariel, Rahab etc.. Some will say modern nations are not included in Biblical prophecy, but the major players MUST SURELY be included if we but recognize them. For instance the latter days prophecies for the twelve tribes found in the book of Genesis chapter 49 can mean absolutely NOTHING unless they do equate to modern nations.

Understanding Biblical Prophecy

Biblical prophecy is extremely complicated but very accurate and precise once understood. But not every believer will be able to understand all Biblical prophecy. If so there would be no need for prophets such as John the Baptist or the Last Prophet. However, the vital point for many Christians will be to be able to identify and recognize the final prophet. Then they can listen to and believe the supplied predictions and instructions. Now can we begin to recognize the importance of the Qumran work we know as the Dead Sea Scrolls(with Biblical Scripture, which is basically the same)? Without these descriptive verses to help identify this coming prophet the matter might be quite confusing. Only a true Prophet from God can interpret all prophetic Scripture, for not even those with all computer resources at their fingertips can break it for personal or private use(New Testament-"prophecy is not subject to private interpretation").

Qumran Codewords

Similar is the use of the codewords in the Scrolls where we find the "Teacher of Righteousness(two separate ones)", the "Wicked Priest", the "Furious Young Lion", "Sons of Zadok", "Ephraim" , "Manasseh" and others. The TR's will be explored further in later chapters, and we know John the Baptist was the first Teacher of Righteousness and the leader at Qumran.

Biblical Identities

Despite the relative poverty of success in understanding biblical symbolic and bloodline names the method used to assign these names is fairly simple as follows: Bloodline names-when bloodline(ancestral) names are used the actual descendants of the bloodlines are USUALLY indicated. Judah, Manasseh, Asshur, Ephraim, Dan, Tarshish, and Gomer are examples of these. Judah represents the Jews of modern Israel, and Elam represents the Balkans(Yugoslavia) where some of the Elam bloodline exists today. If you do not believe this fits read Jer 49:34- 39. A few exceptions will be found. Rahab is one of the exceptions. Symbolic Names-when strictly NATIONAL names are used the modern nation indicated is the TYPE or MODEL of the original nation as it existed in the time of it's prominence. Therefore this modern nation will possess more similar characteristics of the ancient nation or empire than any other nation today. Tyre, Babylon, Sidon, and Assyria are examples. The ancient Phoenician city/states of Tyre and Sidon were the number one and number two respectively most important economic powers of their day. We have already discussed the United States as TYRE and this too fits. The second economic power today is Germany and SIDON equates to modern Germany. This also fits Gen 49:13 as Germany lies alongside the Netherlands which is the bloodline of Zebulun with it's famous seaports. Certain nations such as Israel and Edom were both bloodline and national and in this case they represent both bloodline and type. Israel will be composed of the same tribes and display status and characteristics. An example is "Edom" which equates to the modern nation of IRAQ. The validity of Iraq may be noted by testing scripture as follows: (1). Iraq thought to take over two nations, Iran and Kuwait. This is found in Ezek 35:10. (2). (2). Oil is their underground treasure. See Oba 1:6.

(3). (3). Heavily shielded concrete bunkers were their protection in the Persian Gulf war. Note Oba 1:3. (4). (4). Iraq has an ancient hatred of Israel and Judah. See Ezek 35:5. (5). (5). Iraq has recently been crushed but is rebuilding. See Mal 1:4. It will happen again. (6). The United States(Tyre) delivered up the Kurds and Shiites to Iraq(Edom) after the Gulf war. This can be read in Amos 1:9. (7). At least part of the ruling faction of Iraq are direct bloodline descendants of Edom(Esau). The reader might like to see the future role of this nation Iraq in Ezek 25 , 35, 36 and Psa 137, Oba 1 and Isa 24 & 34. They are also called Idumea. This matter is being introduced because as we will later see Edom(Iraq) is one of the nations being retaliated against in the first of the Scrolls War Scroll actions. Other national players are also included. When a nation retains the name of 3000 years ago such as Syria and Greece it remains the same. Egypt is the exception to this as Egypt represents the entire Middle East in prophecy. The Greek Empire

A few clear references to contemporary figures such as Demetrius and Antiochus who were Seleucid rulers can be found and no great effort was made to hide this as long as it did not compromise the dates or identity of the community. Please allow me to submit a point concerning the GREEK EMPIRE at this time. Long ago some historian said that the world was never the same after Alexander the Great. That is so true as we look back into history and notice the GREEK INFLUENCE on our lives today. All empires after the Greek assumed some character of the Greek or Hellenistic culture down to this very day. Please keep this thought firmly in, mind: THE GREEK EMPIRE HAS INFLUENCED ALL SUCCESSIVE EMPIRES TO THIS VERY DAY! We shall come back firmly to this point a bit later. At the earlier time of the community a struggle was going on within the Jewish world to

resist this Greek Hellenistic influence, much of which doubtless had a detrimental effect on religion. Keep this point in mind as we proceed, because this is the very reason the Greek empire remnants were mentioned, and we should be able to see other pertinent future relationships connected to the image and the beasts of the book of Daniel.

Scrolls

In the Habakkuk and other Scrolls commentaries by John the Baptist we find the "Wicked Priest" as the foe of the coming "Teacher of Righteousness", and men of the nations of "Ephraim" and "Manasseh" are trying to kill the LAST PROPHET. The "Kittim" wage war and the "Furious Young Lion" is the Kittim Asshur leader of the book of Nahum with cruel practices such as hanging men alive. The Scrolls use of Kittim simply equates to EMPIRE of POWER BLOCK of military forces. The equivalent term used in Bible prophecy for these power blocks is "most terrible of nations". This is not a reference to their cruelty but rather to their military might. And so the Scrolls call these same military power blocks "Kittims". We find THREE separate Kittims in the Scrolls-Babylon, Egypt, and Asshur. We also learn from the Scrolls that this is the precise order of the significant successive appearance of each during the time of the last Days- (1) Babylon, (2) Egypt, and (3) Asshur. These three correspond directly to the Biblical prophetic Babylon(Chaldea), Egypt, and Assyria respectively. The members of the community are "Sons of Zadok, "Judah", "Priests", "Levites", "Converts", "poor and needy" and other terms as well. "Poor and Needy" is perhaps the most commonly used, and there is just cause for this. It is more difficult for affluent individuals with great material abundance to truly turn to God, as we of the human nature would like to hold on to our savings, property, and full meals. With less to lose those who are less fortunate financially and in need of more basic services will turn much quicker to The Lord for solutions. These are symbolic names adapted from the temple section of Ezekiel and the Psalms. IT) the Damascus Document(col 3) mention is made of the futuristic Kingdom temple of Ezekiel 44 concerning the "Sons of Zadok". The primary question is whether these are bloodline names or spiritually assigned names? Notice the following: Judah and the LEVITES are those who joined them. The SONS OF ZADOK are the ELECT OF ISRAEL, the men called by name who shall stand at the end of days"... The Scrolls use as applied to the membership clearly shows these are SPIRITUAL names, used in the same manner as the Apostle Paul uses "Jew" and "Israelite" in a spiritual sense in the New Testament. These Qumran members were CONVERTS of the ELECT working towards the resurrection at the end of days and placed little or no real value on bloodlines though they were mainly Jews at the time. They obviously recognized the spiritual and material Biblical promises were quite separate. The Apostle Paul likely picked up this usage while in Damascus with "The Way". The Baptist exhibited this attitude when dealing with some in the gospels who put much stock in being offspring of Abraham-it did not cut any ice with him! The community also used "Poor ones", "Judah", "simple" and "Lebanon" to designate themselves and also future congregations.

The Wicked Priest and the Lost Tribes

The "Wicked Priest" is not a Priest at all, but a RULER yet ahead of US. In the Habakkuk and other commentaries we learn these things about the "Wicked Priest": ( 1). He persecutes the saints and the last prophet in the Last Days. (2). He commits abominable acts in the temple of God.

(3). He is called by the name of truth(good reputation) when he first comes

into power.

(4). He rules over ISRAEL. [be calm-did not say he rules over the Jews].

(5). He and his military followers WORSHIP THEIR WEAPONS.

Where can we find such a person in Biblical description? The answer is rather chilling. The infamous yet to be revealed 666 BEAST LEADER(or sometimes called "antichrist") is found: (1). Making war against the saints(Dan 7:21-25 & Revelation).

(2). Defiling the Temple of God(Dan 8:9-14, 2 Thess 2:2-4).

(3). Having a good reputation or "image"(Rev 13:15, Dan 7:20).

(4). He is a Prince(ruler) of Israel(Ezek 21:25, Ezek 29:21, Num 24:17).

(5). He is worshiping his military forces(Dan 11:38).

What about this mention of being a RULER of ISRAEL? Does this mean he is to be a Jew? Not according to HISTORY or BIBLICAL SCRIPTURES because the northern Kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah were separated even before Israel was captured by Assyria. After then ISRAEL became known as "THE LOST 10 TRIBES". We see the Bible consistently treating Israel and Judah as separate but to be brought back together at a later time(Jer 50:4 and elsewhere). Therefore according to history and the Bible we should be able to reasonably and logically say the bloodline members of the house of Judah(the Jews) are part of Israel(one part in twelve) but there are 11 other presently eleven other unidentified Israelite nations in the world today. To be precise portions of Benjamin and Levi remained with Judah at the breakup and this too is included in the Scrolls as we will examine in chapter six.

Beast Power

Looking into the Scrolls texts we find a solid clue in a commentary on Genesis 49 verse 10(the tribe of Judah in the end time) concerning the passage that the "scepter shall not depart from between the feet until he(Christ) 'comes". The Scrolls identifies the "FEET" as the "CLANS OF ISRAEL" and He as the BRANCH of David-Christ of course. These feet according to the Scroll corresponds to the northern kingdom, the so called Lost Tribes, rather than Judah, the southern kingdom. Since we find both Dead Sea Scrolls and Biblical clues pointing to these LOST tribes let us ask what FEET could this be speaking of? Biblically there is only one with national connotations- the image of a MAN found in Daniel chapter two, which is a composite of seven successive world dominating empires culminating in the 10 toes of the final Beast power(Babylon). Babylon which "-once was-is not now-is to come(Rev 17:8)" was also the first. Now if the feet are Israel then Israel would have to be the sixth empire by all reason. Is this possible? Could the sixth empire really be the dominant nations of the Western world, composed of the Lost tribes? The material promises of Abraham were passed on to the Northern house of Israel with the sons of Joseph, Ephraim and Manasseh as the head of the ten tribes. Though it may sound different, there are certain clues biblically and historically which would be explained if this were possible such as Ezek 21:25 and sections of Revelation and Daniel. In Daniel we find the Babylonian, Medo/Persian, and Greek empires as the first three. Then a reference is made to four more coming OUT OF GREECE(remember the Greek influence we spoke of). Of these remaining four it is pointed out that the final beast leader(little horn) will come out of one of these remaining four(Dan 8:9). When we examine Ezek 21:25, Num 24:17, Ezek 29:21 and others we come back to the same answer-A RULER OF ISRAEL(or Jacob), DOING VALIANTLY(succeeding) and this will be the time of Jacob's Trouble .Isa 22:15 also tends to equate this SHEBNA as the Beast ruler and to the house of Israel. Since we find Israel DOING VALIANTLY in Num 24:17-19 and the BEAST "succeeding" in the book of Daniel does this begin to sound like A world-ruling beast power"'? This does seem to equate Israel and the beast power because the Scrolls ties both the fourth oracle of Balaam and the book of Daniel to this coming beast power. Keep these thoughts in mind as we proceed, because there is a definite direction to the evidence of the Scrolls and their conclusions are connected to Biblical scripture. Ephraim and Manasseh

"Ephraim" and "Manasseh" are mentioned in the Habakkuk and Nahum commentaries of the Scrolls in a NATIONAL sense. Some investigators thought to equate them as the Jewish religious groups, Pharisees and Sadducees, but this simply does not wash. The verses clearly denote national identities for these two codewords. A bit of simple logical reasoning should be sufficient to identify these two IF GOD HAS KEPT HIS PROMISES to a man named Abraham in the book of Genesis, because GREAT promises for NATIONAL prominence and fortune were given to Abraham and passed on directly by Israel(Jacob) to these VERY two bloodlines clans of Israel. In Genesis 12, 17, 28, and elsewhere we find GOD PROMISING to make Manasseh the single GREATEST NATION and Ephraim the GREATEST GROUP OF NATIONS. The United States is the greatest nation ever and the British Empire(now Commonwealth) has never been equaled, as it was said the sun never sets on the British Empire. Was this the fulfillment or does God plan to accomplish it at some later date, or DID HE FORGET? Reason simply does not provide any other equation except that the U.S. seems to be "Manasseh" and the British Commonwealth is "Ephraim" as lead part of the whole house of Israel, if scripture is to be believed. Read the promises God made in His covenant with Abraham and through(Jacob/Israel) to the sons of Joseph(Ephraim and Manasseh) in the book of Genesis. If someone has another answer let him put it out, and see if it stands up to examination as this conclusion does, because according to Scripture and the Dead Sea Scrolls this conclusion does fit. Additionally in the War Scroll of Qumran we find the "exiled sons of light return from the desert of the peoples to camp in the desert of Jerusalem preparing to battle against Edom, Moab, Ammon, Philistia, and one other faction. These "sons of light" are not spiritual, just warriors of battling nations, so obviously represent sons of Israel. Later these "EXILES" enter Jerusalem. Does this not sound like the Tribes of Israel under command of the Beast about to retaliate for and take over Jerusalem?

Abrahamic Covenant

Over the years many theologians have spoken about the promises which God made to Abraham but much of their rhetoric seemed off track and vague. When you consider the vast elaboration in Genesis and begin to examine the U.S. and western Europe over the last 200 years one thing becomes abundantly clear. God has either fulfilled the promises He made to Abraham within the United States and Western nations or He will have to do MORE for some other group of nations later on! Wealth, prominence, and even protection from natural disaster is too obvious to overlook. Just look at the casualty figures in encyclopedias for earthquakes. The U.S. and Europe may have 50 casualties while a similar quake in China may kill tens or hundreds of thousands. Look at hurricane Andrew, the recent Mississippi River floods and the California fires-such a low mortality rate. Observe India or Bangladesh where countless thousands die in similar natural disasters. Do we really believe God's hand is not involved? Or perhaps we deserve such favor? Coincidence or Divine protection? Check it out.

Image of Daniel book Two

Considering the Scrolls interpretation of the FEET being the tribes of Israel the following illustration of the IMAGE of the man of the book of Daniel chapter two may be helpful.. Israel is placed in position as the present day world ruling group and the other empires are shown as well as the corresponding beasts of Revelation and Daniel:

{Refer to the illustration on the following page for the composite view of all related aspects of Revelations and Daniel}

Empire -------Dan 7----------Dan 2 Image-----------Dan 8---------------Rev 13 & 17

-----------------[4 beasts] ----[of man]-------------------[ram & goat]------[7 heads]

1.Babylon -Lion(beast 1) --Head of Gold----------Ram & Goat-------1st head

2.Persia/

Media------Bear(beast 2)--arms/chest silver------Ram------------------2nd head

3.Greek ---Head 1(beast3)-hips bronze-------------Horn 1--------------3rd head

4 Roman --Head 2(beast3)-leg1 iron-----------------Horn 2--------------4th head

5.Ottoman-Head3(beast3)-leg2 iron------------------Horn 3--------------5th head

6.Israel-----Head4(beast3)-feet iron/clay------------Horn4---------------6th head(Western ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------nations of today-Dss ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Gen 49:10 Clans of Israel

7.Beast----Beast4 ----------Beast power/Babylon--Mighty king--------7th Head

10 nations-ten horns -------ten toes clay/iron

author note::::sorry image would not work on hypertext

The acceptance of the first five world dominant empires pose no problem because any student of history knows of the Babylonian, Medo/Persian, Greek, Roman and Ottoman empires. Neither is the identity of the Beast Power as the seventh and final world dominant empire for Bible literate persons. Empire number six may be seem difficult to identify. Look at it this way: What was the last powerful empire? The British Empire where the sun never set. At one time British and United States holdings amounted to over two thirds of the industrialized wealth in the world. Now the U.S. and partners have a larger share and the British Empire has diminished but has not fallen. So what if we put British Empire in as the sixth empire, then add the United States, western Europe, Canada, Japan, etc. Then what would we have? We would have the greatest and most powerful consortium of nations ever to exist on the face of the earth. Would this be recorded in future history as a world dominant empire? You can be assured it would. Would you accept that this consortium of nations has received blessings of material prosperity which would have fulfilled God's promise to Abraham? Could this group of western nations possibly include some of the Lost tribes of Israel? The western world was settled by Europeans and just where do you think the Europeans and their languages came from? The European peoples came from the Middle East and all their languages are based on Middle Eastern family of language known as the INDO-EUROPEAN. You may consult any reliable source to learn of this migration which took place for the most part over 2000 years ago. Even in the Apostle Paul's times most of the migrations had already happened hundreds of years earlier. Are we still so sure? This is something to think about as we examine the Dead Sea Scrolls because they present some factors concerning Israel and Judah with which we may not be normally familiar. Scrolls identification of the FEET of Gen 49:10 as the clans(Tribes) of Israel and the introduction of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh after all these years certainly throws a different aspect into the arena. History buffs and Bible students should have fun with This one, especially when they see some of these same nations poised outside Jerusalem as we will examine in chapter six. We can certainly understand the thoughts of those who first read of these nations in the Scrolls and tried to equate to known entities. Please notice the Greek influence we spoke of and how well this fits the descriptions of all parts of this empire symbolism found in the Bible in these two prophetic books, as well as Ezek 21:25 and other verses. As you can also see the four heads of the Leopard, which is the 3rd beast of Dan 7 are the same as the four horns of the Goat of Dan 8 and correspond to the 3rd through the 6th empires. The Greek influence is present during these empires as well as the final one.

Manifest Destiny

Remember the historical "Manifest Destiny"'? Perhaps Mr. O'Sullivan saw something we do not recognize today. Does the Divine favor he wrote of for this nation in it's early conquests of territory not smack of the same essence we have just been examining? What happened to Russia, Japan, and Germany in recent years? Think about it. Look at the inventions and developments over the past 200 years centered in a handful of western nations. Even the powerful Russians we found only had a powerful military because they poured their VERY LIFE BLOOD into it, not because they were economically prosperous. The Scrolls point out that there is a distinct ignorance of God's involvement in human affairs in the Last Days by Ephraim and Manasseh.

Future Conflict

According to the Qumran writings the focus of coming conflict is JERUSALEM which is likely no surprise to Bible scholars but due to the prime importance and complexity we will defer the Jerusalem discussion to chapter six. The three "Kittims" of the Scrolls are Babylon(Chaldea) equating to the end time Beast Power under the "Wicked Priest", "Kittim Egypt" or middle eastern nations corresponding to "king of the South" of Daniel 11:40, and "Kittim Asshur"(symbolic Biblical "Assyria") which would correspond to the 200 million man army of Rev 9:16. The Scrolls connect Japheth(oriental) with "Kittim Asshur" and the last conflict so it will apparently contain Sino/Soviet forces and occurs near the very end before God intervenes.. Those of the third Kittim(Asshur) will attack Israel and Judah in the LATTER PART of the Tribulations on to the final battle(Armageddon), according to the Scrolls as three phases of 7 lots, & the final lot is Armageddon. More details will be covered in the sixth chapter of this writing. The Scrolls paint quite a different picture than seen in the expectations of some modern theologians. The sobering fact is that the Scrolls authors base the interpretations on Biblical Scripture and one is hard pressed to find contradiction to their interpretation within the Bible. On the other hand it is relatively easy to Scripturally blow many of the Bible prophecy predictions out of the water so to speak. The Scrolls' conclusions are not so easily put aside. Furious Young Lion

The book of Nahum commentary concerns attacks of the Assyrian(Eastern armies) against Israel(Western nations) in a LATER based time frame and we find an interesting leader of the "Kittim Asshur" identified as the "Furious Young Lion", a cruel man who hangs men alive. Today there is a newly prominent Russian political leader, Vladimir Zhirinovsky, who could very well be this person. His wild nationalism certainly fits the furious part. If so, he will eventually gain more power. If not, we may expect another of a similar disposition.

Book of Hagu

There is a Scrolls mention that places much emphasis on thorough study of the "Book of Hagu". This "HAGU" equates to "ASAPH" in the Hebrew atbash cipher. This same cipher is used several times in the book of Jeremiah. This is almost certainly a coded reference to the specific Psalms of ASAPH which are Psalms 50 & 73-83, which have an unmistakable eschatological flavor to them. In fact Psalms 50 very much reminds one of the book of Malachi, putting the entire world on notice of God's impending intervention and judgment.

Good Tidings

We may find not only word of war and trials in prophetic Biblical writings but also words of great comfort such as the following:

- he who overcomes will inherit all things-there shall be no more death nor sorrow, nor crying, nor pain"... The Scrolls writings reflect much the same thoughts of encouragement looking ahead to an everlasting inheritance with great peace. In chapter six a section on INHERITANCE will examine the Scrolls writings concerning the future rewards stored up for those who stand at the end of days. There are a number of concepts held by various religious groups concerning the rewards or inheritance of the righteous. Some Christians believe they will go to heaven while others believe they will rule with Jesus on earth. Perhaps in the Scrolls of Qumran we will see something a bit different and somewhat more specific. The Bible tells us that without vision the people cast off restraint and perish. Could it be that vision is something we desperately need in this modern age in the midst of all the whistles and bells?

Chapter 4-John the Baptist-"Teacher of Righteousness"

John the Baptist discovered the price which he was not willing to pay in order to continue to live-his faith. John no doubt looked for a better inheritance than this wisp of a vapor we call human life. John the Baptist is usually considered to be a cousin to Jesus, born about six months before Jesus around 6 to 4 B.C.. Indications are that he was a Nazarite from birth, which means set apart for service to God. Both Biblical and contemporary sources place him in the Desert of Judea as a child away from his parents, and we can only imagine the primitive and arid lifestyle he endured as he grew up. His entire life was connected with THE BIBLE and that is also what the Scrolls are about-THE BIBLE, pure and simple. The Dead Sea Scrolls are about the Bible, written FOR US TODAY by John and his people, including the men and women of the towns, who dedicated their every breath to this mission to bring us vital instruction today. They faithfully kept the mission secret to their graves. They did this for our benefit 2000 years later. Who then would think to hold back from the world any of these texts as if they were personal property ? Quite a number of people will quickly recognize that John would have been the only candidate to write the Thanksgiving Hymns in that time frame outside of Jesus and His disciples. Little wonder that several researchers have desired to link John with Qumran because everything that is known fits so well. Some in the religious community have had certain access to the Qumran texts but have kept their findings to themselves because they did not hear something soothing. Religious "seekers after smooth things" are those most criticized in the last days by the Scrolls. Others have simply not had access to these writings. Some investigators of the Scrolls have however recognized the real messages as they assembled and translated the texts. Yigael Yadin is one such person as he noticed the overwhelming theme in the War Scroll that the people of God will be subjected to trials as if in a crucible in the last days. This is not a smooth easy piece of knowledge to accept, but this too is one of the primary messages of the Qumran Scrolls. One person may say "we have the Bible and therefore do not need the Dead Sea Scrolls". Then we might ask that person to interpret this or that in the Bible. If he cannot then there are things about the Bible he needs to know. If we had the full understanding of all that is written in the Bible then there would be no need for the final prophet. The Creator grants understanding in various ways, and the Scrolls are one way of providing understanding BEFORE we see this last prophet John write of. Then we can ask the Prophet. The Baptist had Jesus to identify him, but who will confirm the final prophet? The Scrolls will help us to identify him, and without the Qumran Scrolls who would have ever guessed the specific set of Biblical Psalms concerned him. Much more in chapter five. The Scrolls are provided to supply knowledge before this prophet becomes public and to verify his vision. What could be a more effective witness than the Dead Sea Scrolls? There is no reason that Christ and His disciples may not have freely come and gone from Qumran and Damascus with frequent interaction with the members of John's group, except that they would have been very careful to keep it secret.

Authority

The identity of John as the leader of Qumran is of prime importance because the matter of AUTHORITY surfaces. According to Jesus Christ the greatest human religious figure who has ever lived was John the Baptist, except for Jesus himself of course. If we accept His testimony then there is no other person, except Jesus, who had more authority from God than John the Baptist. This includes Moses and the twelve Apostles. Yet even New Testament accounts leave John's activities somewhat shadowed, by design as we now understand. Therefore the first important question is whether the Dead Sea Scrolls originate from a divinely inspired source. This question has been answered, though some may even now dispute John's role until even more substantiation surfaces. With John the Baptist as the Qumran leader, sent by God, there is no question as to inspirational validity. There is no defendable way for Christianity to dispute John the Baptist, forerunner for the Lord. By the same token Judaism may also be affected because of John's credentials and Old Testament foundation. Many Jews believed in John the Baptist in his own day. Some Messianic Jews believe today, and more people may become reconciled to the message of the Scrolls which blends old and New Testaments. On the other hand, without the Baptist the Dead Sea Scrolls would have little use or value to modern man aside from historical and scholarly use. We may expect new developments concerning these writings.

John's Messages from Qumran

The second important question is exactly what do the Scrolls written by John the Baptist and his disciples tell us? When the Baptist speaks in the New Testament of "wheat and chaff" he refers primarily to the yet future judgment, and when we examine the Scrolls we find his detailed account. Scriptures from the Bible are the foundation for the texts and the Scrolls contain inspired illumination for future events. Some of these commentaries take the form of pesherim(hidden meaning), and these especially demand divine inspiration to be of use. Without authentic inspiration a pesher would be simply the imaginings of a human mind. The Qumran peshers are quite valid. The writings of Qumran use the very same "here a bit-there a bit" principle of encoding found in the Bible. Like the Bible, the Qumran verses must be assembled according to subject and placed in order much the same as the Scrolls "Midrash" writings. The Biblical book of Isaiah is a prime example of this meshed arrangement of subjects in a broad time spectrum. Without understanding where a particular verse or verses fit little sense can be made of this Biblical book. Without a thorough knowledge of the Bible and recognition of this "here a bit-there a bit" principle confusion could result also in understanding the Scrolls, especially in distinguishing between the two individual "Teachers of Righteousness" who are 2000 years apart. For this reason those learned in Biblical verse should more quickly comprehend the Scrolls messages. Another common thread of the Scrolls and the Bible is the use of past present, and future tense situations in a switched role. Again Isaiah is a good example where we find the present tense (chapter 63:1-6) clearly used in a future situation where God takes revenge on Iraq. Though this has not yet occurred it is recorded in the Bible as if it were happening at this moment. John also used this method for masking his message, especially in the Thanksgiving Hymns describing the final prophet. This caused quite a few researchers to decide all these descriptive details applied to some unknown obscure individuals in the desert of Judea some 2000 years ago, forever lost to history. No doubt many religious inquirers never went this far after they read a few things that did not appeal to their ears. Let us hope that they do not prefer to "assuage their members thirst with vinegar", as John writes. At Qumran we find that not only was John inspired but those of the community who preceded him as proven by the prophecy of going to Damascus and the "about forty years" concerning the Judean desolation by the Romans. The Scrolls texts, primarily future thrust, provide understanding of Biblical prophecies and principles to warn and teach in preparation for the next coming. The major areas covered by the Baptist at Qumran are: (1). Identification of the final "Teacher of Righteousness"-The LAST PROPHET(see chapter five). (2). Outline of peoples, nations, trials, conditions and conflicts in the last days according to Biblical prophecy. The Scrolls will be an obvious echo of the last Prophet's message. While the words of the Last Prophet will no doubt be somewhat different the basic message must be the same. While the Scrolls speak of KITTIM the prophet may call them POWER BLOCK. (3). Embellish Biblical understanding. Some Christian church groups believe they. are the only ones who will have the true doctrine and the true understanding of end of age prophecy, but according to the Scrolls and the Bible the "Elijah" is to furnish the standard for all end time understanding of prophecy. Throughout the centuries various "prophets" have appeared and disappeared and often reappeared, but none has any real validity without a firm Biblical base. None will endure without the Bible. The CENTRAL writing of all the Scrolls is the Thanksgiving Hymns(HODAYOT) and in it can be found the most detail on the yet to appear prophet/teacher/interpreter. This Biblically promised final prophet is to further prepare for the next coming of the Lord, taking up so to speak where John the Baptist left off. As may be seen in the introduction verses John the Baptist actually described the details of his binding and imprisonment. John likely finished this writing while he was imprisoned and perhaps other writings. The Apostle John or Andrew may have assisted him with the later texts, but we may accept that all of the later writings would have been written or supervised by John the Baptist.

Twice Fornication

Just as the members deliberately masked identities they also PROVIDED CLUES which help to finally establish the true identities. An example of this is found in the Damascus Document(one of the earlier writings) quoting a sort of midrash of Ezek 13:10, Mic 2:6 and Gen 1:27 which states: (speaking of "Precept") he shall be caught in fornication twice by taking a second wife while the first is still alive"... This symbolically addresses spiritual adultery speaking of false religious teachings but a particular individual is tagged "Precept". This seems to be a very puzzling statement with the expression "TWICE" included, but there is an individual which this applies perfectly to who had contact with John the Baptist. Herod Antipas! As John pointedly rebuked Herod for taking as wife his half brother Phillip's wife this would fit Herod TWICE because not only did he take another wife while his first was still alive, but he took HIS HALF BROTHER'S WIFE making it a double(twice) offense according to Leviticus and Deuteronomy Scriptures.

Essenes

Many have accepted the theory that the Qumran members were Essenes. Perhaps they were known as Essenes but if they were actually Essenes then much of the historical information about Essenes is in error. Perhaps they were mistakenly identified as Essenes then and now. The Essene habit of participation in military actions is just one of the differences, because this Qumran group clearly had NO MIND to participate in human wars or military action. Though we do not know whether they were called Essenes, we now know the identity and purpose of the Qumran community of the Scrolls.

John the Baptist and Jesus

The location of John the Baptist at Qumran explains the mystery of the similarity of doctrine between Qumran and Christianity, and the mystery of the whereabouts of the Baptist during his work. A considerable number of people were touched by John's message and were taught these same principles to guide their lives. One such was Apollos, later to become a church leader who had been baptized and apparently taught by John, requiring only minor instruction from Priscilla and Aquilla. Such closeness of doctrine and purpose between John's and Jesus' disciples is remarkable, and exhibits confidence in John by Jesus. There had been no known prior contact between John and Jesus, but we see from Qumran that John correctly extracted the proper spiritual teachings from the Scriptures. Job, among others had long ago recognized spiritual principles and pleased God. Job was one of God's favorites and counted as one of the three most righteous men of all time. There is no distinction between a person of God in the OLD or NEW covenant because they will both be in the same first resurrection. At Qumran the Baptist prepared his disciples for the new covenant by magnifying the law, as Christ did, to extract more spiritual concepts and practices. As evidenced by the Bible the three sets of basic Biblical laws(ten commandments, tithing/free will offerings, and clean/unclean) were in effect long before the Exodus as can be seen in studies of Abraham and Noah. These basics remain in effect today, though all the added on Levitical laws do not apply. Jesus taught that the Sabbath was made for man, but He did not teach that it was legal for men to change the Sabbath as some seem to interpret this saying. What Christ said means simply that the Sabbath was in effect for the full tenure of man, being in effect from the first breath of Adam to the last breath of the last human. The Sabbath day was not changed by Jesus, but rather by a group of men at the Council of Nicea in 321 A.D. led by the Roman emperor Constantine. Much of the martyrdom during the inquisition in the Middle Ages came from persecution of those who refused to accept this new day of Sunday as the Sabbath. John and his Qumran group clearly observed the seventh day(Saturday) as did Jesus and His disciples, and some religious groups will have trouble accepting this because of traditional human practice handed down for centuries. When John called some a "brood of vipers" in John 3:7-10 this is an extension of his Scrolls texts concerning "vipers eggs" in a religious context. Jesus stated in Matt 21:32 that John came in "THE WAY of RIGHTEOUSNESS", and in these few words we see the name of John's group and his title subject.

Early Qumran

The Scrolls community did not spring up overnight but began about 196 B.C. by their own reckoning as 390 years after the captivity of Jerusalem by Babylon which occurred about 586 B.C.. As they write it began as a BUD or SHOOT(embryonic stage) during the Seleucid rule. Yet even then the early members began to glean spiritual concepts from the Old Testament scriptures which they called "a more exact interpretation of the law", and truly so. These concepts are sprinkled among the paleologically determined earlier texts such as the Damascus Document and the Community Rule though they held fast to some of the more rigid points of the Old Testament law such as strict Sabbath rules. Later Texts

In the later texts authored by John the Baptist you find none of the rituals or added on law even mentioned except that the holy days were kept in form only until the new covenant. After that point it was made clear the New Testament rulings would apply with the advent of the new covenant by the group in Damascus. Therefore, we see John's writings and teachings with a more profound growth of spiritual appreciation as reflected in the Thanksgiving Hymns. These hymns were in the Herodian style of writing and paleologists place them much later than the earlier texts though it is obviously impossible to be exact on dating based on writing style.

Methods of Dating Several of the physical sciences of necessity rely on dating methods which leave much to be desired in precision. Carbon dating for instance has a ten percent error margin so in dating the Qumran find of 2000 years ago the date arrived at might be 200 years off either way. Reliance upon physical evidence such as pottery and tools with assignment to certain ages(Stone, Bronze, Iron, Industrial, Computer etc) may be even more susceptible to error because such ages can live side by side at given times. Many cultures are quite primitive compared to other groups at a given time. Even in this modern computer age we have on earth today many groups that might be considered iron or bronze age. If a digger discovered a New York computer thousands of years from now which had a date of 1994 stamped on it, and then he traveled to the Amazon area and dug up a primitive blowgun would he realize this blowgun existed in 1994 also? Such inconclusive proofs often lead to serious differences of opinion among the sciences. These date methods are useful but we must also realize their limitations. With the Dead Sea Scrolls the most reliable method of dating the Scrolls may be the perceived evolution in spiritual understanding.

Machaerus Prison

In the introduction verses concerning the Baptist, he describes his imprisonment, being shackled hand and foot and fettered. He also envisions his place of imprisonment as a "place of no escape". New Testament scripture confirms the binding and imprisonment, and the Jewish historian Josephus reports John was imprisoned at Machaerus, a formidable mountain fortress/prison/palace where escape was unheard of. Built virtually on top of a mountain with extremely deep and steep slopes it was a natural prison. John was kept in prison a year or so. Only a relatively few of the Thanksgiving Hymns verses could apply to John the Baptist, and a few also apply to Christ which are mostly taken from Psalms 22 and the book of Isaiah.

Enter the Final Prophet

The third individual identified in the Thanksgiving Hymns is the latter "Elijah" yet to be manifested, and will be considered in the next chapter. This "Elijah" come alive is derived from the book of Malachi and the New Testament gospels. A specific promise is made by God that He will send ELIJAH the prophet before the GREAT AND TERRIBLE DAY OF THE LORD to reveal and restore all things. Some expected an actual resurrection of Elijah but Jesus made it plain that John the Baptist was the symbolic ELIJAH(Matt 11:11-14) of his time and that YET ANOTHER was to come later(Matt 17:10-13) preceding the yet future DAY OF THE LORD. So much hinges on the ELIJAH to come that some Jewish believers have a chair reserved for this individual. At least one Karaite priest recognized the "Teacher of Righteousness" of Qumran as being the former ELIJAH, and we know this does fit because the "Teacher, of Righteousness" was John the Baptist. This Karaite was correct!

Qumran Teachings

Among the concepts John the Baptist taught his disciples and wrote in the Scrolls at Qumran are repentance leading to forgiveness of sin, faith, obedience, love of spiritual brethren and fellow man, doing good even for the wicked, not taking revenge, resurrection, salvation with eternal life, circumcision of the heart, conversion with the help of the holy spirit, fruit of the lips(praise), and the great mercy and grace of God. The Qumran RECIPE for cooking locusts alive(as their nature requires) would be useful as John came eating locusts and honey. Though Biblically clean it is obvious that locusts were not a gourmet choice table fare.

The Holy Spirit

Compared to many of the present teachings of traditional Christianity the Scrolls teach quite a different belief as to the nature of the Holy Spirit. In the Thanksgiving Hymns we find: I know these things by the spirit which You have created for me(repeated elsewhere)- for him to make perfect a way for the children of men, that all of His creatures may know the might of His power and the abundance of His mercy towards the sons of His grace..." This identifies the Holy Spirit as a creation and flies in the face of the traditional trinity(triple godhead) doctrine. In another place spirits is used in a multiple sense and suggests that more than one angel sent by God may dwell with each convert. The Scrolls speak of the rule of the two spirits (good and evil) which walk with each person . According to the choices a person makes either the spirits of light or darkness grow stronger and a certain ratio( 7 to 2, 5 to 4-good to evil) can be counted and that upon the judgment of each person this ratio determines reward or punishment. A person with 8 parts darkness to 1 part light would be counted in the congregation of Belial(Satan) while a person with 7 parts light to 2 parts darkness would be considered in the congregation of the Prince of Lights(Christ). This may help explain some of the New Testament demon possession scriptures, which suggest a condition very similar. Since the Scrolls do not provide for a third spirit the implication is that the Holy Spirit is the holy angel(or angels) of Light. That would clear up much speculation about the nature of the Holy Spirit. This would mesh perfectly with Christ's statement that Satan has "no part in Me" and certain other scriptures concerning demonic possession. Mention is made of the "angels of the face" and this is very likely a description of the personal angels assigned to a "penitent" (e.g.-convert) which Jesus says "ever see the face of God" implying constant and instant communication. The "Book of Enoch" also sheds light on the subjects of judgment and spirits.

Chapter 5-The Final Elijah-Portrait of a Prophet

The prophet Daniel was thrown into a lion's den. The people and the rulers wanted to kill Jeremiah and he was placed in a dungeon like a slime pit where he sunk into the mire. Isaiah may have been sawn apart alive. John the Baptist's head was served up on a platter. Elijah was forced into exile with Ahab and Jezebel after his hide. Biblical prophets are not always the epitomy of popularity. As the Scrolls describe the final symbolic "Elijah" prophet we see the same opposition exists to his message, especially among the "seekers after smooth things", who prefer their own mental delusions to the vision the prophet carries as given to him by God. As with Elijah this Final Prophet will also be forced into exile from his land and be hunted by those who wish to kill him. Perhaps this "Elijah" will also have his "Ahab and Jezebel" to contend with. The Scrolls explain that some will understand and believe him and his vision but some will neither understand or believe him, and thereby make a distinction between the wicked and the just. What sort of individual would the average person expect the end of age prophet to be? one might imagine him to be a well known evangelist, a successful businessman with church connections, a family man, pious with an unquestioned reputation, with many loyal friends and family members around him for encouragement. one might also expect him to be wise, witty, stable, and financially sound. It would help if he were young, charismatic, and handsome in a rakish way with a lovely wife and several well behaved children. Perhaps he would be the son of a famous tycoon or a war hero or a respected Senator, or was the semi-retired owner of a fast food chain and involved in human rights or environmental issues. Most of all perhaps-he would be a SOMEBODY! Considering the Scrolls and Psalms description this last prophet will be a disappointment to many people, being VERY different than we might envision! In a nutshell he appears to be a "MAN OF CALAMITIES", of stumbling rather than success. Instead of a staunch family man and pillar of integrity we see in this final prophet a man BETRAYED by those who "eat his bread" and MALIGNED in gossip with a resultant loss of reputation, ridiculed and scorned, beset by serious illnesses, financially unsuccessful, a victim of schemers, being scourged by God for unknown reasons. He has visited the gates of death and commonly experiences pain on an ongoing basis. He is waiting in bitterness, sorrow, and anger for God to redeem him-and probably asking why! Perhaps he feels like Job. This individual is even at odds with the church group he had been connected with. Who would ever choose such an unfortunate to be the last prophet? Perhaps only God! Not likely any human would have made this particular choice. We would look for stability at the very least. But it appears God does not operate like we do, because He has chosen an individual that most of us would likely consider "a broken vessel" just as some of the Prophet's friends and family do count him to be. The reader may be acquainted with this very prophet today! As you read briefly in the introduction, this coming prophet is beset by bad health and serious personal problems and a variety of trials. However as time advances a different aspect will emerge because at some point God will begin to establish and lift up this prophet, and the prophet's situation makes a dramatic change. Concerning the Last Prophet's end time vision the Scrolls indicate God at first keeps the vision hidden and obscured. However, in the meantime some have "borne the yoke"(made privy) to the mysteries of the vision and BECAUSE of the vision have struck out against the Prophet and hold him in ridicule, perhaps his church group. We see his message as not well received by some! The attitude of these first to know is addressed by God who instructs them to "mend their ways". The Scrolls make no bones about the fact that the final prophet has been given all understanding concerning the Bible. As we look at the diversity of beliefs and doctrines among Christianity alone we can certainly see the need for a "Plumb line" to set the Biblical meaning straight. Everyone simply cannot be correct regardless of sincerity. The Scrolls also make it clear that God will not allow this prophet to be put down by others forever because in due time God Himself will strengthen the Prophet and the mysteries he holds will no longer be hidden. What if you met a genuine prophet who knew all of the mysteries and the prophecies of the Bible because it was given him from God? Would you ask him the name of the beast or what events would take place or some mystery of life you've wondered about for many years? Consider what you might ask or say because we may indeed meet this Last Prophet who is described in the Dead Sea Scrolls by John the Baptist and his disciples of Qumran. In addition to being called the " Final Teacher of Righteousness" in the last days he is also described as the "fountain of knowledge" bringing rain for the thirsty. Bible students may easily equate this prophet to the "latter rain" of the book of Joel which the "teacher of righteousness" corresponds. As you will see, the vast majority of the details for this coming Prophet are provided by the Baptist in the Thanksgiving Hymns and for the most part are based on a specific set of Biblical Psalms. Why no one has recognized this before is not clear but most Scrolls researchers assumed these verses were made up by the mind of the Teacher of Righteousness. The first and major evidence of exactly which Psalms may be seen by an examination of the Scrolls interpretations of Psalms 37 & 45:1. In these commentaries most of the verses are identified as concerning the Teacher of Righteousness and the people of his council and his enemies. Upon examination of the Psalms falling between 37 & 45 it is clear the context continues in 38, 39, 40, 41, 42 and 43. A close examination of the Thanksgiving Hymns of Qumran reflect a heavy correspondence with these very Psalms. The Scrolls introduces most subjects concerning the final Prophet based on this specific set of Psalms but expands upon them and adds other details not found in the Psalms. There are several portions which are inspired from Psa 35 and 88 and an examination of Psalms 35 & 88 show them to be very similar to Psa 38. Psalms 44, the remainder of 45 & 88 are two of the "Sons of Korah" Psalms which we will discuss in more detail later. Therefore it is rational to state that the biblical Psalms which pertain to the coming prophet are 35, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43 and 88 and that some of these verses will also apply to the elect of God in the Last Days, according to the Dead Sea Scrolls. Just as all details provided in the Scrolls are not found in the Psalms, some details are provided in the Biblical set of Psalms which are not found in the Scrolls. An example is the repeated admonition in Psa 37 "not to fret" indicating the prophet has a particular problem with fretting or anger over injustices done against him. This does not seem to be in the Scrolls texts restored to date. Also we find in Psa 37:25 a statement which implies the prophet lives in a land where food is plentiful and easy to obtain. A reverse example found in the Scrolls is that God has caused the prophet to "dwell with the many fishers-and with the hunters-" which connotes residence near waters for fishing and woods for hunting. The writer finds no counterpart for this in the above mentioned Biblical Psalms. No doubt more Scrolls information will come to light, whether not yet reconstructed or not yet released for public use. The Habakkuk and Nahum pesherim and other texts contain information concerning the Prophet and the people who listen to him, especially what appear to be later attacks and persecutions from the Wicked Priest and men of Ephraim and Manasseh. The name "Amon"(or "No-Amon") is equated to Manasseh(the United States) in the book of Nahum. Fittingly No-Amon was the principle city of Egypt in its day. John the Baptist and the Last Prophet consider themselves(and all people) to be "a lump of clay kneaded with a little water". The final prophet makes it clear he has no strength, wealth, or earthly refuge and is totally dependent upon God for support, protection and inspiration. He is chronically ill and has been at death's door at some point. A distinction is made between those who will be AGAINST the final prophet and those WHO BELIEVE AND HEED the final Prophet. A Scrolls comment on Hab 1:5 reads: this concerns the end of days. They and the men of violence and the breakers of the covenant will not believe when they hear all that is to happen to the final generation from the priest in whose heart God established understanding that he might interpret all the words of His servants the Prophets, through whom He foretold all that would happen to His people and the land..." The wicked and the unfaithful are most often described as "seekers after smooth things"(likely from Isa 30:10) who prefer smooth easy illusions to the real truth of the Bible. This writer recently heard a minister state in a sermon that Jesus did not really mean He was going to come back with a rod of iron as the Bible says. The Scrolls certainly say He will and very forcefully when He does. We shall see. The Scrolls commentary on the book of Habakkuk introduces this book as concerning the final generation at the end of days and identifies the Chaldeans(Babylonians) of Hab 1:6 as the "Kittim(power block)-quick and valiant in war-causing many to perish-all the world will fall under the rule of the Kittim-". This is the FIRST of the 3 Kittims-Kittim Babylon. This certainly sounds like the world ruling Beast Power often mentioned by prophecy writers and later verses serve to affirm the identity. Then of Hab 2:1-2:.--"he who reads it may read it speedily"[ as concerning the Teacher of Righteousness to whom God made known all the mysteries of the words of His servants the Prophets]...". There is a delay spoken of in this commentary which apparently involves the "waiting" of the prophet and uncovering of the vision, but there is no indication how far the delay has progressed, except the obvious fact that the delay is over when the Last Prophet becomes public. Certain of the descriptive verses from the Thanksgiving Hymns concerning this Final Prophet(Teacher of Righteousness) are presented along with the numbers of verses they correspond with in the particular Psalms: Scrolls Verses Corresponding Biblical Psalms (Physical circumstances) (Vs Nr.]

Until I'm old-until old age 37:25 [Psa 37:25 states he is old and some Scrolls texts on -age rules for positions suggest he would be between 50-60 years of age] Dim eyesight from waiting 38:10 Lives among woods and waters/fishers and hunters Poor health, pain, chronic loss of strength-heart fails 38:3-8,40:12 My soul has journeyed to the gates of death- 88:3 God has not placed my support in gain-no fleshly refuge- 40:17 (the Prophet's opponents) All who have eaten my bread have lifted their heel against me-41:9 Opponents hate wrongfully and render evil for good- 38:19-20 By their affliction bitterness-sorrow-ignominy 42:5,43:5 You(God) widened my heart- they narrow my heart with affliction- 39:3 object of a treacherous tongue- 41:7 Sin, ill repute, scorn, mockery, and byword to traitors- 40:15 Mighty men encircle me-with weapons of war 38:19,40:12 wicked plots against the just-gnashes teeth 37:12 Those who do not esteem me hate and despise me- 41:10 My enemies hate, speak evil and devise my hurt- seek my life 42:10,37:14 Object of devilish schemes-snares- seek my destruction- 38:12

[Friends and companions] Murmuring and protest, dispute and quarreling- 42:10 Friends and brethren driven far from me- think me a broken vessel 38:11 [Concerning Religion] Devilish scheme to exchange law in my heart for smooth things- 37:7 Folly concerning their feast days- 42:4 (Psa 42:4 states he used to go with the multitude that kept a pilgrim feast. This may imply he once kept the seven Levitical old testament holy days but no longer does, because if these were not Biblical they would be called sin rather than folly. Considering This, he may be found among one of the Christian groups which still keep the Levitical holy days today). The vision is not sure, despise, no esteem-say lying prophets 42:10 The foolish shall not understand these things- Seek to spill my blood-insults- 39:8,41:7 They do not know my steps proceed from You(God)-rage-byword 37:23 [The Prophet] I've stood in realm of ungodliness- my lot was with the damned- You have purified me of many sins- 39:8 I am forsaken- 42:9, 43:2 You(God) did these things- 39:9 You will save me for my steps proceed from you 37:31 I am not forsaken- 43:5 Apart from their assembly I will bless Your name- I will announce to the assembly of the simple(elect) the judgments by which I was scourged and to the sons of man your wonders by which You show yourself mighty in the "assembly of the simple" (connotes the elect while the "great assembly" and "sons of man" used elsewhere means all people of the earth). You have enlightened me from my youth- 39:9,40:10 Hymns of praise in my mouth- 40:3 (Psa 40:3 states this prophet will compose a new song which many will, see and believe). Those who listen to him and believe are called "of my council or of my covenant" and he states of this group: simple- steadfastness to the anxious of heart- counsel of truth and understanding to the upright- a banner to the elect of righteousness and a discerning interpreter of wonderful mysteries to those who practice truth and test those who love corrections man of peace to those who see truth-a fountain of knowledge to men of insight...".

[of the Prophet's Exile] The poor one was carried away in the midst of great tribulation-(lQH).' They have banished me from my land like a bird from it's nest-(IQH). [There is mention in the book of Ezekiel(chapter 24, verses 26 & 27) of a "fugitive" who declares certain news. This is a curious chapter which seems to have certain parallels with this prophet. Also there is a verse in 2 Thess 2:3-8 which mentions someone being taken away in connection with the naming/uncovering of "the man of sin" usually thought to be the Beast leader. Interesting enough the Scrolls Habakkuk and Psa 127 commentary definitely speaks of pursuit of and searching for this Prophet.

[Of Death?] Shaking and trembling seize me-all my bones are broken(This latter must refer to the later death of the prophet since the verses do not concern Christ and John the Baptist who are the only other two individuals in the hymns writings).

[God establishes the Prophet] Freed from my calamities- 37:17 Strengthen my loins, healing-restoring my power- 41:3 Rise against my despisers-my hand against my deriders- 41:10 You will lift my horn and condemn those who assail me- 41:11 I will be a shame and disgrace to murmurers- 40:14 You will destroy men of lies-seers of error- 36:12,37:20 Spirit of zeal & sin to those who seek smooth things- Saved from devilish schemes- 41:1-2

[of opponents] Their net has taken their own foot-snares catch them- 37:15 Your rebuke(God's) shall become my joy and gladness- 37:4 Space to my narrowed soul- My stumbling shall become everlasting might- 37:22 Scorn of my enemies shall become a crown of glory- Your safeguarding peace delivers my soul- 37:11

A few items derived solely from the set of Biblical Psalms follow: Mute in presence of wicked- 38:13-14,39:9 He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday- 37:6 "-I will restrain my mouth with a muzzle while the wicked are before me-my heart was hot-fire burned-" 39:1-3 -my ears You have opened-Then I said 'Behold, I come; in the scroll of the book it is written of me, I delight to do Your will 0 my God, and Your law is within my heart"'. 40:6-8

Why the Scourge from God?

As we read of this latter day prophet and see the trials and apparent injustice he faces we might wonder why would God subject him to this scourge? He has sinned, but is counted forgiven. As a human he continues to sin but so do we all according to the New Testament. It is interesting that we find this person asking the very same question over and over, especially in Psalms 42. No doubt he is trying to please God, but keeps asking "Why all these woes. Why am I being thrown down?" There is no doubt from the Scrolls and the Psalms that God Himself is doing This! Perhaps he is asking not only why but also asking God what answer can he provide if people say "Is this the way God treats those who follow Him?" In order to comprehend WHY we need to go back in time perhaps three thousand years and look at the examples of a few Biblical prophets: God required Isaiah to go about BAREFOOT AND NAKED for 3 years, Hosea to marry a harlot to bear children, Ezekiel to lay on one side 390 days and the other 40 days, and others to do certain things to DEMONSTRATE the point God was preparing to make. You might say God was using VISUAL AIDS to insure peoples attention. Keeping these demonstrations in mind, we find that once again the Scrolls commentary on Psalms 37(and other texts) provides the answer to this puzzle. In the explanation of Psalms 37:14-15 the following is read: attempt to lay hands on the priest and the men of his council at the time of trial which shall come upon them"... Upon them we see, not just the prophet but also on the believers. Therefore the faithful people of God will face similar trials to those of the prophet! In the past God afflicted and utilized prophets in unusual circumstances to show humanity what was to befall them. The Scrolls indicate the trials of this prophet are only a mirror of trials the elect of God may also experience to some extent. The betrayal part also helps to explain some of the verses from Jesus which indicates coming divisions even within the family unit which refer back to Micah chapter seven. Perhaps also we can better begin to understand the life/death decisions Christ speaks of often. The Scrolls and these Psalms certainly do not paint a "smooth" picture for those who would follow God.

Last Prophet

From the way the story is unfolding the Prophet may well be among us today and may soon be manifested. Why does God choose one or another for a particular job? We are informed in the Scrolls: You(God) will establish whomsoever You choose"... (1QH).

As Jesus was about to be betrayed by Judas Iscariot the Lord gave him a sop of bread and quoted Psa 41:9b-"the one eating my bread has lifted his heel against me". This is a very familiar verse to all Christians the world over. Those who carefully studied Psalms 41 however soon realized this Psalm was not speaking of Jesus at all. By part of this verse and His own authority Jesus predicted His betrayal, though even the first "trusted" part could not have applied to Him. We find another instance on one of these Psalms being applied to Jesus in Hebrews 10 beginning in verse 5(quoting Psa 40:6-8): "sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me-Then I said 'here I am-it is written about me in the scroll-I have come to do your will 0 God-'(NIV). The portion which reads "a body you have prepared for me" is derived from the Septaugint and this is the text used in Hebrews. However in most Biblical Psalms the Masoretic(Hebrew) is used and it reads "my ears you have pierced(opened)", which is quoted in the Scrolls pertaining to the final Prophet. The verse certainly seems to be speaking of the Prophet and the Scrolls while the slightly different version applied only to Christ. The personal betrayal of the Last Prophet might be connected to he estrangement of friends and loved ones if the betrayal involves a marital dispute. Friends and relatives become very uncomfortable around those involved in serious domestic disputes or divorce. "Eaten my bread" seems to connote those who have lived in his household rather than someone who shared a picnic lunch. There is also a time when the Prophet will be on trial but God will not allow the prophet to be convicted. There is no evidence this betrayal is to the death as it was for Christ. One or several of these identifying clues might well be applied to a wide number of people but as each is added on the odds diminish. With these Dead Sea Scrolls painting a veritable "portrait" of the final Prophet it will be pretty difficult for a phony "Elijah" prophet to impersonate the real one even if the Creator would allow it. Sons of Korah

Earlier we discussed the Asaph Psalms(50 & 73-83) which appeared to be required reading at Qumran, called in code "book of Hagu". Now we find another set apart group of Psalms as follows: In a Scrolls commentary on an introduction to the Biblical Psalm 45: .'sons of Korah" (they are the seven divisions of the penitents of Israel-). The only seven groups that comes to this writer's mind are the seven churches spoken of in the book of Revelation in chapters 2 & 3, and these are introduced in connection with the last days, or Day of the Lord. There seems to be specific instruction concerning the last days in these two particular sets of Psalms(Asaph & Korah) as well as those earlier discussed. The "sons of Korah" Psalms are 42, 44 through 49, 84, 85, 87, and 88.

There is a definite eschatological message in the Psalms we have discussed and any Bible student or theology scholar might like to look them over carefully in light of the Scrolls. In these Psalms we find trials and unjustified persecutions for the faithful. Seven Churches

The leftover twelve and seven baskets from the feeding of the two multitudes are directly connected with John's death as we earlier mentioned. The twelve Apostles had been chosen and commissioned earlier and they passed out the food. Food represents spiritual instruction. The TWELVE BASKETS symbolize these TWELVE APOSTLES who were commissioned to assist with the spiritual instruction at the beginning of the NEW COVENANT. For this reason Jesus kept asking why they did not understand. The TWELVE APOSTLES are connected with the BEGINNING of the first ministry of Christ during the seven years appointed by Him in the book of Daniel chapter 9 verses 25-27. This "WEEK" represents seven years Christ set aside for His ministry with 3 ½ years to usher in the present covenant, and 3 ½ years to usher in the NEXT COVENANT which is the Kingdom of God. The Dead Sea Scrolls identify this "Prince" as the SAVIOR of the world and not the Beast Leader as some theologians have believed for years. Therefore, This week of seven years was interrupted after 3 ½ years by the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, with the putting aside of the added on Levitical laws and rituals, and will resume as the Day of the Lord(about 3 ½ years). Those who had believed this particular verse to be speaking of the Beast also interpreted it as a SEVEN YEAR BEAST RULE/TRIBULATION PERIOD which is not accurate. The Great Tribulation/Beast rule will NOT go beyond 3 ½ years duration. Does that not seem long enough? This type of mistake in prophecy is easy to make even for those with very good understanding from God concerning the Bible because in these NEW COVENANT. For This reason Jesus kept asking why they did not understand. The TWELVE APOSTLES are connected with the BEGINNING of the first ministry of Christ during the seven years appointed by Him in the book of Daniel chapter 9 verses 25- 27. This "WEEK" represents seven years Christ set aside for His ministry with 3 ½ years to usher in the present covenant, and 3 ½ years to usher in the NEXT COVENANT which is the Kingdom of God. The Dead Sea Scrolls identify this "prince" as the SAVIOR of the world and not the Beast Leader as some theologians have believed for years. Therefore, particular verses the Beast Leader verses are interwoven among those speaking of Christ and this makes these verses very difficult. This prophecy also concerns the famous "seventy weeks" which are past except for the final 3 ½ years which are the NEXT ministry of Christ and which usher out this covenant and usher in the NEW COVENANT of the Kingdom of God. In the following only the portions which pertain to Christ are given in order to clarify the message of Daniel chapter 9 verses 26 & 27: "And after the sixty two weeks(past) Messiah shall be out off, but not for Himself--Then He shall confirm a covenant with many for one week(meaning seven years) but in the middle of the week(after 3 ½ years) He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offerings(abolish the Levitical sacrifices and holy days)." The remainder of these two verses do apply to the Beast. God often uses twelve for a fresh beginning and seven to represent completion. The twelve BEGAN the covenant and the SEVEN CHURCHES will assist in the completion by serving to supply spiritual instruction as the final ministry of Christ begins(Day of the Lord/end of age/tribulations etc.). The seven baskets from the second multitude therefore represent the SEVEN CHURCHES found in Revelation chapters 1 and 2., as do the SONS of KORAH(seven groups of penitents) which are identified by the Scrolls. Two Witnesses With only ONE final prophet where do the TWO WITNESSES of the end time spoken of in Revelation and Zechariah fit in? Perhaps the prophet will be one of the two witnesses and the other may be more of a "shepherd" figure. A curious description of "Cyrus" is found in the book of Isaiah in chapters 44 and 45 perhaps describe the second witness. Otherwise we may have to inquire of the prophet when he appears. It may be interesting to note that the Persian name Cyrus translates to "Koresh", as used by the David Koresh of the Branch Davidians at Waco. Perhaps David Koresh saw himself as this very "Cyrus" described in Isaiah. David Koresh was not a prophet or Christ as the authorities alleged he claimed to be, though we have never heard David Koresh's side of the dispute. But the Scrolls of Qumran tell us a genuine Final Prophet is to appear! This coming prophet will not be as easily disposed of as was David Koresh, neither by the FBI nor anyone on earth, though the Scrolls reveal many will try. Perhaps some of those very same agents who were at Waco will be in on the attempts against the final prophet. How will they fare against a prophet from God Almighty??

Ancient Writings

The "Book of Enoch" was clearly considered Scripture by the early Christian writer of the Biblical book of Jude. Both the "book of Enoch" and the "Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs" were apparently considered inspired Scriptures by the Apostolic Fathers, as evidenced by early Christian writers up to Tertullian. These two books were also included in early Greek bibles, but fell into disuse and probably disfavor by later Christian leaders. Both writings prove to be very interesting and clarify certain points which seem puzzling in the Bible. The "Testaments" bears many common threads with the Scrolls of Qumran and speaks of the Savior coming from "Levi" and "Judah", which we now understand is accurate. Among other things the relationship of Levi with God is explained more completely. The incident when young Levi and his brother Simeon avenged their sister by slaughter made Jacob unhappy, but according to the "Testaments" God Himself ordered Levi to do just as he and Simeon did. Levi was on Mt. Hermon when God instructed him to take action, and Levi found sword and shield as he descended the mountain. Levi's action so pleased God that He gave Levi favored priesthood forever. The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs also tends to equate the Beast Leader(antichrist) with the tribe of Dan, as do the early Christian writings of Irenaeous of Gaul who had ties to the Apostolic Fathers. Irenaeous also believed the tribe of Dan was omitted from the 144,000 of revelation for this same reason. This writing also gives details of the burials of the patriarchs at Hebron as well. The Book of Enoch(and Secrets of Enoch) provide certain prophetic details of the end of the age which would have conflicted sharply with many later Christian writings such as the City of God writings of Augustine c. the fourth century A.D.. Little wonder it fell into disfavor.

Chapter 6-Modern Prophetic Ideas and a Different Scrolls Message

The story of the Qumran Scrolls is a very real drama in human history with very real people, not unlike us today. The Scrolls, authored by John the Baptist, speak of future events and actual people living on earth today. Those that pertain to the Last Days actually speak of present events as well as many events yet in the future. Readers will be reading about events before they happen and the people described will actually appear in this age. Who knows? Readers may be reading about themselves. Hal Lindsey is one of the most well known writers on-the subject of Bible prophecy. His best selling book entitled Late Great Planet Earth is the best known modern book on the subject of prophecy. Jack Van Impe is one of the best known religious broadcasters. The interpretations of Hal Lindsey and Jack Van Impe are a fair representation of the more widely accepted opinions of future prophecy. In this chapter several beliefs of these men as well as other widely held views will be brought into focus and compared with the interpretation presented in the Dead Sea Scrolls. The message of the Scrolls presents quite a different picture! By the light of the Scrolls we will examine the nature of God, the nature of the Holy Spirit, the origin of Demons, the rapture belief, the Revived Roman Empire theory, the forecast of seven years of tribulations, and other subjects.

Nature of God

Certain aspects of the nature of God are clearly defined in the Scrolls. The distinction is made between The Father and The Son but most texts accentuate the dynamic role of Jesus as the "Elect" of God under various Biblical names. God is depicted not only as supreme Creator of all things from eternity, but it is also stated that 'nothing is done unless God wills it, and that every spirit is in His hand'. The statement is made that God "knows the works of each creation before ever He creates it forever and ever. Scriptures such as 1 Sam 16:14, Mark 1:27, and Job 1:12 & 42:11 support these statements. Some verses are presented from the Thanksgiving Hymns(lQH): -.."By Your wisdom all things exist from eternity and before creating them You knew their work forever and ever--Nothing is done without You and nothing is known unless You desire it--all things exist by Your will and without You nothing is done-- all things are engraved before You on a written reminder for everlasting ages--by Your mercies and great goodness You have strengthened the spirit of man in the face of the scourge--there is no bound for Your glory and no measure for Your wisdom--Your safeguarding peace delivers my soul--you unstop my ears to marvelous mysteries--God of knowledge--You are as a fortified wall to me, and as an iron bar against all destroyers--those who please You shall stand before You forever; those who walk in the way of Your heart shall be established evermore-- a man is not righteous except through You'... Another point made by the Scrolls is that God hates and despises evil deeds and evil people. Many times we have heard various Christian leaders say "God hates the sin but loves the sinner", but no such statement can be found in the Bible. The Bible says God hates the evil person and loved Jacob but hated Esau etc. But God does love the sinner who repents and turns to Him.

Nature of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is described as a created being several times in the Scrolls. This fails to support the "Trinity" doctrine of some Christians who believe the Holy Spirit to be a part of the Godhead consisting of three Divine beings. The Scrolls strongly emphasize the commission, power, and significance of the Holy Spirit. Regarding angels in Hebrews 1:14 we find--..."Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation(NKJ)?" We are told in Psalms 91:11 that -"For He shall give His angels charge over you(NKJ)." The duties of the personal angels assigned to the Elect in the Scrolls seem to harmonize with the duties of the Holy Spirit. The Scrolls speak of the two spirit forces(one of darkness and one of light) and do not provide for a third spirit entity which seems to connote the personal angels and the Holy Spirit are one and the same. An uninspired addition appears to have been made to the Scripture of 1 John 5:7, which would appear to make the Holy Spirit a part of the Godhead. This is found in both the King James and the New King James versions and both read as follows: ..."the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one"... This text seems to have been added by someone because it is not found in the most reliable originals. This has also been corrected in more recent versions such as NIV and Berkeley. Some scholars of ancient manuscripts are convinced that at least some New Testament editing was performed by the Roman dominated fourth century church about the time of Augustine who is often called the father of the Catholic church. Mention is made of the prospect of such editing in the Nelson NKJ version Bible/preface page S/Nashville/1985. Perhaps this is an example of such editing. We may be grateful that we have access to both the Old and the New Testaments because they confirm each other in numerous ways. The Jewish scribes did an outstanding job of preserving the integrity of the Old Testament. Likewise in this time there are New Testament critics and manuscript scholars who look after such important details. An incredible amount of drudgery and painstaking work goes into such efforts even in the microchip age. The Scrolls(1QH) read: ..."The way of man is not established except by the spirit which God created for him to make perfect a way for the children of men, that all His creatures may know the might of His power and the abundance of His mercies towards all the sons of His grace--What strength shall I have unless You keep me upright, and how shall I understand unless by the spirit which You have shaped for me?-I, the Master, know You Oh God by the spirit which You have given to me, and by Your Holy Spirit I have faithfully listened to Your marvelous counsel--I give You thanks because of the spirits You have given to me"... The concept of the nature of God and the nature of the Holy Spirit formed part of the early church controversy. Christians need to know the power and function of the Holy Spirit in their lives. They need to understand what the will of God is, His power as Creator and Savior, and if possible what He intends to bring into their lives. Beyond a healthy understanding, debates and controversy over the exact nature of either God or the Holy Spirit may not be in the best interest of Christians.

Origin of Demons

The Damascus Document mentions Christ as the "Messiah" in the following Passage and then continues with a mention of the Watchers as follows: "And through His Messiah He shall make them know His Holy Spirit, and He is true, and in the true interpretation of His name are their names. But them He hated He made to go astray. Now therefore, children, listen to me and I will open your eyes to see and to understand the works of God. And to choose what He approves and reject what He hates. To walk uprightly in all His ways, and not to go about in the thoughts of an evil imagination and with eyes of fornication. For many were led astray by them, and mighty men of valor stumbled by them from ancient times until this day. Because they walked in the stubbornness of their heart the Watchers of heaven fell. By them were they caught because they did not keep the commandment of God. And their children whose height was like the lofty cedars and whose bodies were like the mountains fell thereby. All flesh that was on dry land perished, and they were as though they had not been. ... By them went astray the sons of Noah and their families: because of them they were out off ... every man doing his own will." This account conforms to Gen 6:2-7 and designates the division of angels called Watchers as the Sons of God in verse four. Genesis suggests there was a mating between angels and human women but details are not included. Peter also speaks of an angelic rebellion in 2 Pet 2:4. Jude writes of this in verse 6 and quotes the Book of Enoch (verses 14-15) concerning the coming judgment. Early Christian writers (Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria, Tertullian) freely quoted the Book of Enoch as Scripture. R. H. Charles and other scholars of ancient manuscripts were convinced the early Apostolic church regarded the "Book of Enoch" as Scripture. Certain early Bible versions included Enoch. Enoch was used by the Qumran community and it conforms to the Bible filling out certain gray areas. A few centuries later Christian leaders such as Augustine (354-430) discredited and placed a ban on the Book of Enoch. There may have been a severe penalty imposed for possession because the Book of Enoch virtually disappeared in the Western world until about 1800 when an Ethiopic version was located. Enoch provides many details concerning the spirit world and judgment. Prior to Augustine's time early Christian writers such as Irenaeus (c. 115-200) and Justin Martyr (c.100-165) looked for a literal Kingdom of God to be established on earth. Augustine taught that the book of Revelation was simply spiritual allegory and the one thousand year rule was fulfilled in the Church, and that the Church already existed in a state of grace. Augustine's teachings shaped the doctrines of the Roman Catholic Church and strongly influenced other church groups for centuries to come. Little wonder Augustine did not like the Book of Enoch because this writing has such explicit descriptions of the final days that it would have undermined Augustine's teachings. The later Reformation did much to change many minds about Augustine's teachings. In the year 1800 a man named John Nelson Darby was born in London, and he had quite another view concerning the book of Revelation. He taught during the 1800s that the book of Revelation was a literal depiction of coming end time events. Many people in Britain and the Unites States believed Darby. During this century Cyrus Scofield, ascribing to this and other teachings of Darby, published the Scofield Reference Bible in 1909. The Dead Sea Scrolls vividly dispute these teachings of Augustine but support the Darby/Scofield conclusions that the Last Days will indeed conform to a more literal interpretation as presented in the book of Revelation. Darby and Scofield did apparently introduce for the first time another concept however, called The Rapture, which tended to make their teachings more palatable. More on this later. These historical details were presented because the Book of Enoch seems to provide the only source for the details of the Watchers episode, preceding Noah and the flood, as mentioned in Genesis chapter 6. The account from this ancient writing of Enoch will be provided for the reader's evaluation. The Watchers, according to Enoch, are also connected with the Azazel goat of Lev 16:80 & 1922. Some have thought this Azazel to represent Satan, but this does not seem to be the case. Considering the evidence of the Genesis version, the Scrolls, and the Book of Enoch writings may clear up some of the mystery concerning the evil spirits or Demons often mentioned in the Bible, especially in the New Testament. A condensed account from the Book of Enoch: In the days of Jared, sixth from Adam, a portion (200 in number) of angels of the order of Watchers began to notice the beautiful and comely daughters of men. These Watchers met on Mount Hermon and discussed the desire to choose wives to mate with and produce children on the earth. Semjazi and Azazel were two of their leaders, and all 200 bound themselves to do this with an oath on Mt. Hermon. Influenced to some degree by Satan these Watchers assumed human forms and chose women and made them pregnant and among their offspring were GIANTS as tall as cedar trees. These giants consumed all the food humans could produce then began to devour flesh with the blood in it and each other as well. Azazel and the others taught the women secrets of metalworking, root-cuttings, cosmetics, enchantments, and other crafts which led mankind into deep corruption. This continued over a period of several generations of mankind until the days of Noah. Knowledge which enhanced violent conflict was included. As mankind perished their cry went up to heaven. Four of the Archangels, Michael, Uriel, Raphael, and Gabriel, saw the blood and lawlessness and listened to these cries. These four presented the case to the Lord who ruled that He would intervene. God sent Uriel to warn Noah to prepare for the flood, and ordered that the offending Watchers be bound and imprisoned. Azazel had become the worst offender of the lot it seems. The Archangel Raphael then bound Azazel hand and foot and cast him into darkness in a place in the desert named Dudael. Raphael placed rough and jagged stones over Azazel and covered him in darkness where he would remain until the day of the great judgment. on that day Azazel and the other offending Watchers will be judged by the Son of Man (Christ) before all the world and cast into the lake of fire. God ruled that the earth had been corrupted through the works taught by Azazel and that to Azazel would be ascribed all sin resulting from these events. God placed Michael in charge of securing the other participating Watchers. Once bound in massive chains they were forced to see the destruction of their beloved children. Some of these children of the unions between Watchers and women killed each other while others died in the flood. The spirits of the unions between angels and humans inherited the quality of immortality from the Watchers and therefore their spirit survived the destruction of their mortal bodies. The spirits of the children of the watchers lived on as disembodied spirits and were called Evil Spirits. Confined to the earth where they were born, they oppress, destroy, attack, do battle, work destruction on the earth, and cause trouble among mankind. They could assume other forms and would tempt, accuse, and torment mankind until they are gathered up and judged at the end of the age. These evil spirits take no food, yet they hunger and thirst as if they were mortals and cause offences among mankind. They shall rise up against the children of men and against the women and continue until the great judgment. After witnessing the physical destruction of their offspring the Watchers were bound in massive chains made by the Archangels and confined to the valleys of the earth (abyss) in darkness (as confirmed in 2 Pet 2:4 & Jude 6) for seventy generations. These spirits of the offspring of the angelic Watchers and human women are the evil spirits (demons) which roam the earth and possess humans and animals because they have no bodies of their own. Jesus describes them as evil spirits, wandering and finding no rest, who are seeking humans to possess and corrupt (Matt 12:43-45). They are the spiritual forces under the rule of Satan, the Prince of Darkness, with whom humans must contend for a time.

Names

The mention that we will know the characteristics of the Savior "by their names" simply refers to the attributes of God which are found in the meaning of the names of the Biblical people of God. One clear example of this is found in the book of Zechariah where the names used in this book are names "symbolic of things to come (Zech 3:8 NIV)", that is personifying the Elect in this present age. Each of these names denotes a particular characteristic of the Lord. For example Berekiah=blessings of The Lord, Joshua=saved of The Lord, Zechariah=lord has remembered, Iddo=timely, Hen=grace [Strongs]. John(as with The Baptist) means "pierced to death".

War of Teachers of Error

A recurring theme for the Last Days which is found in the Scrolls is that God will judge and destroy those who teach and promote error. Many verses of such disposition were included in chapter five in connection with the Last Prophet. Also included are warnings not to follow those who teach error. Jesus applies the same warning in Matt 15:14 and Luke 6:39 where it is noted that both the blind guides and those they lead may fall into a pit. Learning what God will teach us from the Bible is the responsibility of each Christian as much as possible. Learning by choice is even a condition of our calling (John 6:45). The Scrolls also point out that many will come to recognize those who teach error in the Last Days and depart from these blind guides to seek sound Biblical teachings. Some Scrolls verses concerning false teachings: ..."You will destroy in judgment all men of lies, and there will be no more seers of error; for in Your works is no folly, and no guile in the design of Your heart"...(lQH). Commentary on Nahum 3:4 (concerning the harlot of sorceries):..."Interpreted, This concerns those who lead Ephraim astray, who lead many astray through their false teaching, their lying tongue and deceitful lips-kings, princes, priests, and people together with the stranger who joins them. Cities and families shall perish through their counsel. Honorable men and rulers shall fall by the choice of their tongues." [This above "harlot" no doubt corresponds to "Babylon" of Rev chapter seventeen]. Commentary on Nahum 3:6-7a: "Interpreted, this concerns those who seek smooth things, whose evil deeds will be uncovered to all Israel at the end of time. Many will understand their sin and treat them with contempt because of their guilty presumption. When the Glory of Judah shall arise, the simple of Ephraim shall flee from their assembly; they shall abandon those who lead them astray and shall join Israel." (by implication spiritual Israel). Repeated mention is made of the division between the "good and the wicked" mentioned earlier, with the Last Prophet serving as a plumb line. This same condition of "division" is spoken of by Jesus in Luke 12:49-53 where He states that instead of peace between people He has come to bring division even among family members. No doubt this came about to some extent after His Last Coming. Certain strong divisions in belief will happen in coming days according to the Scrolls. With the Scrolls and Scripture and accurate predictions of events we should be able to determine the difference between the Last Prophet and the False Prophet.

The Rapture

Some modern Christian leaders teach the theory of a rapture or spiriting away of Christian believers prior to the Great Tribulations. This is one of the most popular doctrines and seems to have originated with John Nelson Darby in the 1800s. This and other of Darby's beliefs was further promoted in the early 1900s by Cyrus Scofield. The rapture belief is based on the supposition that true believers in Christ will be taken away for safety and protection before the severe end time trials begin, at which time their trials are over and salvation and protection assured. Hal Lindsey and Jack Van Impe are joined by many other respected Christian leaders who teach this today. And why not? This is something that anyone would naturally prefer to believe for themselves and their loved ones. This seems especially appealing as we recall the early Bishop at Antioch Ignatius and countless other Christians going to the arena to be eaten by wild animals, or perhaps to be burned at the stake. History and the Bible tells us these persecutions and murders of the people of God were a reality. There are no hints of a rapture during the early Christian era. Unfortunately Biblical Scriptures do not support the rapture belief, and neither do the Dead Sea Scrolls. The Bible says we may expect tribulation, possibly death, and hatred (Matt 24:9). The Scrolls say we may expect a severe ordeal until God signals for it to end (CD, 1QH). A New Testament scripture often quoted by those who expect a rapture or spiriting away of believers before the Great Tribulations is 1 Cor 15:52. This verse actually describes the first major resurrection, that of the Faithful (Rev 20:4&6). The "rest of the dead" (verse 5) will be included in the last major resurrection(Rev 20:11-15) after the thousand years are finished. Scriptures clearly reveal this initial resurrection spoken of in 1 Cor 15:52 will occur only at the Last Trumpet (1 Thess 4:15, Rev 11:15) which is at the latter end of the Great Tribulations(Day of the Lord/end of the age). This occurs only after the tribulations period (Matt 24:29-31, Luke 21:25-28, Mark 13:24-27). The Master Himself makes the point clear. According also to the Qumran texts the prospects of the elect people of God are not so smooth. Instead of a rapture the elect are told to expect to be tested "in a crucible" accepted by choice. The description of choosing these trials may actually allude to the choosing or rejecting the "mark of the beast" in chapter thirteen of the book of Revelation. There are mentions of a Fortress of protection and a safeguarding peace capable of delivering us in the Scrolls. A few examples of Scrolls texts follow: ..."it shall be a time of great tribulation for the people which God shall redeem; of all it's afflictions none shall compare to This, from it's sudden beginning until its end in eternal redemption ... a time of distress for Israel and the summons to war against all nations. There shall be eternal deliverance for the company of God but destruction for all the nations of wickedness ... ... And you, the sons of His covenant, be strong in the ordeal of God! His mysteries shall uphold you until He signals for His trials to come to an end ... ... He will pay their reward with burning fire by the hand of those tested in the crucible ... [War Scroll, caves 1 & 4). God could of course choose to spirit His people away at any time, and He may do so but there is no sound Biblical promise. Among other Christian groups another teaching is found which may be described as a mental rapture or "Warp" theory. Some teach that if we behave as Christians and set a good example then Jesus will unexpectedly, unannounced, suddenly appear and then the Kingdom will be established. You will have just been warped past the tribulations into the Kingdom. Those who teach such doctrine avoid for the most part any mention of the tribulations as described by Jesus or any period of judgment prior to the Kingdom. Teaching of only palatable Biblical concepts is a temptation, and there are dozens of worthwhile Biblical themes from which to choose. However, when such teaching is done to the exclusion of other Scripture a warning bell should clang. There are times when innocence can be endearing but should we allow innocence to stand between us and Jesus Christ? Being a Christian means stumbling and falling and adjusting our course-over and over, unless we have already reached perfection. More than a decade ago the comedian Bill Murray starred in a serious movie role-the classic "Razor's Edge". The movie likened the path to human salvation to "walking on a razor's edge". This is not unlike the description we find from Jesus which describes the road and gate to life as small and narrow (Matt 7:14). We could define our path to salvation as walking a razor's edge, whereas the road to destruction is smoother and wider. Quite often we perhaps find ourselves repeating the same mistakes and struggling just as hard as we ever did to correct ourselves. Repentance and effort are important to God. There seem to be two distinct trains of thought among Christians today. Some Christians are watching and searching Scriptures for understanding and signals of the coming days. Other Christians seem to be uncomfortable even discussing the subject of His coming. Perhaps this is the very reason the Lord placed so much emphasis on our being watchful (Matt 24:42, Luke 12:56, 21:36, Mark 13:23&29, Rev 3:3). These Scriptures underscore Christian living and watchfulness. There do seem to be many people trying to keep up with what God is about in the Christian community. Countless others around the world are searching for meaning and answers. Christians above all people should have these answers. The Scrolls explain that only when God signals for the ordeals of the Elect to come to an end do the Elect experience universal relief. Both the "Rapture" and the "Warp" theories willeither stand or fall at the very beginning of the Last Days. The sad reality is that, with failed precepts, many Christians may then become so disillusioned that they fall away. This may be the primary reason for the expected falling away mentioned in 2 Thess 2:3. some have even attempted to support the rapture belief with 2 Thess 2:7. More likely these verses speak of the Last Prophet going into exile after naming the Beast leader. From Rev 7:9 we know the Christian ranks swell during the Last Days to produce a great multitude.

What about Action from God?

What then can Christians expect? The Master Himself informs us that we may expect tribulation (John 16:33), hatred (John 15:18), persecution (vs 20), possible betrayal by loved ones (Luke 12:51-53), even to death (Luke 21:16). Little wonder you may not hear these Scriptures very often, because confronting such a difficult and a disquieting subject is not easy. But then did not Christ ask "When the son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth? (Luke 18:8-NKJ)". Faith embodies loyalty, obedience, and trust. The Lord cares for us and He knows this is difficult. Let us examine a few points of Scripture, and then consider some Biblical promises. John Hagee, the Pastor of Cornerstone Church in Texas, recently mentioned the testing of Abraham's faith. Abraham was to slay his only son, Isaac, as a sacrifice to God. John said that if he had been so tested his own heart "would have melted like wax". How utterly true! John has a remarkable gift of expression. Anyone with a child or loved one can affirm this same feeling. We pray that God does not ask that again. By comparison perhaps other trials may not seem so great to us. We are familiar with the account of the stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:54-60) And may ask ourselves-"Did God just stand by and let His servant die a miserable death?" That is a fair question for us to consider. Jesus has all authority on earth and in heaven (Matt 28:18) and He has made some special promises which are designed to assure Christians that we may have faith in Him. For instance: Jesus promised never to leave us or forsake us (Heb 13:5). God promises not to allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear , and when tempted to make a way for us to endure through it (I Cor 10:13). If we are faithful the Peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard our hearts and minds through Jesus Christ (Phil 4:7). Blessed are those who trust in Him (Psa 2:12b). In the time of trouble He will care for us (Psa 27:5). We know Stephen and countless other Christians were subjected to various trials. These early Christians were likely well acquainted with God's hidden reasoning of Isaiah 57:1-2. Are we of today so different that we may expect different treatment? So what might Christ have done for Stephen that would not have been visible to bystanders?

Peace of God

We recall the mention of the "safeguarding peace" in the Scrolls. Jesus speaks of His peace in John 14:27 with assurances we need not fear. He also said He would give it to us and leave it with us. This Peace of Christ is surely the Peace of God of Phil 4:7, and Jesus is the Prince of Peace. So just what is this Peace of God? Scriptures reveal this to be quite different from the peace we know and strive for. This Peace of God- Is given by God in various measure as needed (1 Pet 1:2). Keeps the faithful in perfect peace (Isa 26:3).

Over the past 2000 years numerous Christians have actually experienced this Peace of Godin tragic or crisis situations. Most of these did not realize exactly what God had done for them. Just as the Baptist wrote in the Scrolls this peace guards our minds and can be given for a short or long time. This "Peace" is so incredible that Paul could not explain it. Paul, the man of words, simply said it "surpassed all understanding". This "Peace of God" is capable of removing all fear, anguish, grief, and pain. This is a superpower of God. Perhaps Christ made a Covenant of Peace for His people in this age, based on the ever available "Peace of God" through the Holy Spirit, similar to the covenant mentioned in Isaiah 54:10. This "Peace of God" is invisible to bystanders, who may not see any evidence of it when it is given. Do we think Stephen suffered pain, fear, and anguish? Or did God lay His Peace on Stephen and countless others? Everyone likes to see the hero intervene and bring about justice, putting away the bad guys and freeing the innocent victim. Sometimes God does just that. But let us consider Stephen again. What if God had visibly intervened with His own Glory or a band of mighty angels and rescued Stephen? With no test to endure and a "no lose-no risk" proposition, how many onlookers would have converted to Christianity ? One hundred percent! But how loyal would these be? God does not always act according to our expectations, but He knows the best way. Did Stephen lose in defeat? Stephen was a VICTOR and his crown is secure! Ours is not.

Seekers after Smooth Things

According to the Scrolls the most common Last days religious doctrine is to be seekers after smooth things(Isa 30:10). The teachers of such error appeal to those who seek smooth easy religious beliefs. These texts emphasize this concept many times, based on Isa 30:10 and similar Scriptures. Isa 30:10(NIV): "They say to the seers,'see no more visions!' and to the prophets, 'Give us no more visions of what is right! Tell us pleasant things, prophesy illusions". Christian teachers face difficult choices. They have to decide what, when, and how much to teach, and also how to pay the bills. They realize too that they have to stand before Jesus Christ and account for their leadership, and how they interpret and teach the Bible. Not only the religious leaders but the individual members will be held accountable, according to the Scrolls. Jesus tells us in the New Testament that we are individually responsible (Luke 12;5657, Matt 15:14 23:16-36, Luke 6:39), so we cannot lay all blame on teachers. The Scrolls emphasize that "the just shall live by faith(Hab 2:4b)", in suffering while looking to the Last Prophet for answers. Surely the Last Prophet will have a number of encouraging and perhaps surprising and encouraging assurances

Commentary of Hosea 2:8:"Interpreted, This means that they ate and were filled but they forgot God--they cast His commandments behind them which He had sent by the hand of His servants the Prophets, and they listened to those who led them astray. They revered them, and in their blindness feared them as though they were gods." This last verse warns us to listen first of all to Jesus rather than teachings of men. Some authoritarian style church groups would have members believe the Church has the power to decide what the Bible Scriptures mean. Telltale phrases such as "This really does not mean what it says in the Bible" should cause bells of alarm to ring in our heads and us to search these verses carefully to determine if this teacher is on target. Teaching religious error might be compared to this teacher throwing a rope to a person struggling in the ocean. This person ties it around them tightly, and then the thrower pitches the other end of . the rope overboard-tied to the anchor. We find an interesting interpretation of the Scrolls (CD) concerning the shepherd and sword" of Zech 13:7 which indicates "the humble"(or afflicted of Zech 11:10) who "watch for Him" and who "sigh and groan" will be "marked" (Ezek 9:4) and saved at the time of the Visitation of God (the Next Coming). This would appear to correspond with the 1260 day protection, apparently in the form of physical relocation to another area (Rev 12:6), and connected with the Philadelphia church (Rev 3:10). For this reason some Christian groups would like to think of themselves as this particular group. We may have to ask the Last Prophet for more details about these seven churches. This same Damascus Document (CD) commentary states that others (shepherd and flock alike) will be "delivered up to the avenging sword of the Covenant". This may be the explanation for Matt 24:39-41 where some are "taken" and some "left". If this proves to be an accurate evaluation these Matthew Scriptures speak of death and judgment rather than a spiritual rapture as some have interpreted these verses. The Scrolls indicate those who are "marked" will be spared(Ezek 9:4). This is a sobering thought because death seals our destiny(Luke 16:26) with no recourse. While we live we can make choices which alter our course. Our personal judgment day may hinge upon our next breath.

House of Absalom

The Last Prophet will be engaged in a controversy with the False Prophet ("The Liar") at some point according to the Scrolls commentary on Hab 1:13b which reads: "Why are you silent while the wicked swallow up those more righteous than themselves? (NIV)". 1QpHab reads: Interpreted, This concerns the House of Absalom and the members of its council who were silent at the time of the chastisement of the Teacher of Righteousness and gave him no help against the Liar who flouted the law in the midst of their entire congregation." The exact nature of this controversy is not clear, but this Last Prophet may well initiate certain attacks against false teachers similar to those of Elijah against the Baal priests of Ahab and Jezebel(l Kings 18:1-40). He is to "Prepare the way" in the spirit and power of Elijah. Just as Judas betrayed Jesus, one group, likely one of the "seven divisions" according to the Scrolls, will not stand up and be counted with this Last Prophet. They are called the House of Absalom by the Scrolls and this commentary is inspired by Habakkuk and Hosea 9:7-8. Absalom was a son of King David who conspired against his father and sought to take over David's throne. This group may be the first of the seven churches spoken of in Revelation chapters two and three, because we find This-group alone is threatened with extinction by Christ(Rev 2:5). At that point we find two distinct groups. One listens to the Last Prophet and the other listens to the False Prophet. The group of the False Prophet(also called the "Spouter of lies") is a "condemned house" whose "judgment God will pronounce in the midst of many peoples"(1QpHab-you may note Rev 17:16-17). We may recall the mention of the "distinction between the righteous and the wicked", and the importance of listening to the Last Prophet to supply answers. No doubt we will find answers to our own personal questions among these answers from the prophet, but we are warned by the Scrolls not to expect his message to be too easy to accept. Some will believe and understand and some will refuse to believe or understand.

Revived Roman Empire

Among the more popular and well known modern beliefs concerning Bible prophecy is that the Holy Roman Empire will revive in Europe and become the ten nation Beast power. This coming Beast power is described in chapters thirteen and seventeen in the book of Revelation and elsewhere in the Bible. We saw in chapter two of this writing the illustration of this Beast power conforming to the Scrolls identification of the feet of Gen 49:10 and the image of the man picturing the seven empires found in the book of Daniel chapter two. There was no provision or hint of a Roman revival in this illustration, but rather a Babylonian Revival rising out of the Lost Tribes of Israel (our Western world). The Scrolls Habakkuk commentary clearly defines this as the power block, Kittim Babylon, at the beginning of the Last Days. The description of this power block as related in the Scrolls commentary leave no doubt that this is indeed the Beast power which dominates the world scene during these Last Days. The advocates of the Roman Empire Revival have been hard pressed to explain the setbacks experienced by the European Unification in recent years because they presume this unified Europe to be the foundation of the revival. Generally they think these reversals delay the arrival of the Last Days by some years. The Scrolls provide no hint of any such Roman Revival-just BABYLON. Along with this Roman Revival some expect the Pope to be the False Prophet. This idea has clung on for many centuries, partly fostered by the description of "Mystery-Babylon the Great, Mother of Harlots" found in chapter seventeen of the book of Revelation. This says "Babylon" not Rome, and the "seven mountains" of verse nine signify world ruling empires not seven hills of the city of Rome. The Roman Church may have adopted some of the ancient Babylonian religious themes but are they alone in This? Even if they have been guilty of persecuting and killing not only suspected witches but Jews, Christians, and Muslims during the Inquisition, these events were in the past and God will judge. There is no Scriptural reason to either suspect or condemn the present Roman Catholic Church. Neither is there Biblical evidence to indicate the Pope will be the False Prophet. The present Pope John Paul has a mind of his own and seems to listen to the Bible more than to men. Coming events, the details we find in Rev 13:11-18 and Zech 11:15-17 and perhaps the Last Prophet will reveal the identity of the False Prophet. Chapter seventeen of Revelation depicts a system of economic as well as religious organization which goes further back than the Roman church, again to Babylon. The Babylonian system of worship was based on Nimrod worship, and was transferred to each different language since that time. The worship of Nimrod(son of Cush, son/husband of Semiramis, father of Ninus) and family spread to virtually every nation and language. Legend has it that Nimrod is known under fifty names. A cross reference of encyclopedias will produce more than forty such names. Each of these names, curiously enough, seems to have six letters. Is this a clue to Rev 13:18 where the name of the Beast is counted as 666? Nimrod/Semiramis/Ninus becomes Osiris/Isis/Horus in Egypt, while they may be found synonymous with Saturn/Venus/Jupiter in Roman worship. Mithra is the Persian name for Nimrod where he was worshiped as the Sun God. Panati reports that this worship of the birthday on December 25th of the "Natalis Solis Invicti" or Invincible Sun God" was so popular in Rome that the Roman Emperor Aurelian declared Mithraism the official state religion in 274 A.D.(Panati's Extraordinary origins of Everyday Things, "Christmas"- pgs 67-68, New York, 1989). many tales connected with these names, such as the one about Achilles' heel, are prominent in mythology and some replicate Biblical stories. The "New Age" movement which many people find acceptable today is an example of ancient traditions of worship. The practices which many accept as "new and cool" are actually quite "old and cold". Psychic and paranormal activity with demonstrations of supernatural power are convincing arguments today just as they were thousands of years ago. Deception is the name. Destruction is the game.

Seven Years of Tribulation?

Hal Lindsey, Jack Van Impe and many others in addition to the rapture also expect a seven year period of tribulations in the Last Days. The rapture and the seven year tribulation theory were also taught by John Nelson Darby and Cyrus Scofield. There are several problems with the seven year notion, and quite a few Bible students have noticed some of these. For instance the reign of the Beast is clearly given as 3 ½ years (Rev 13:5) during which time he persecutes the saints (Dan 7:21&27). Several methods of counting are used in the Scriptures so there can be no reasonable doubt about the "three and one half years'. This same time is also called the "time of the Gentiles" of 3 ½ years (Rev 11:2), and the tenure of the two witnesses is also 3 112 years (Rev 11:3). You may notice from the following account in Revelation chapter eleven that these two witnesses begin at least a few days before the Beast assumes power because the third woe is yet to come after they are killed in Jerusalem as noted in verse 14. The Scrolls mention "bodies of the saints in Jerusalem with no one to bury them" in one text, which may refer to these two witnesses or to other saints. In the Scrolls Blessings texts (1QSB) we find: ..."the Prince of the Congregation --- that He may establish His holy Covenant at the time of the affliction of those who seek God"... In the War Rule (1QM): "And you, sons of His covenant, be strong in the ordeal of God! His mysteries will uphold you until He moves His hand for His trials to come to an end"... In the Damascus Document (CD): ..."the Covenant of God shall stand firm to save him from all the snares of the pit, whereas the foolish shall be punished"...

his and other usage of "covenant" by the Scrolls seem to imply a special Covenant in addition to the New Testament Covenant between Christ and mankind to be an even tighter bond during certain tribulations. It would be natural that such a Covenant would feature favor in the form of the Peace of God of Phil 4:7. The seven year tribulations theory comes primarily from one verse, which is Daniel 9:27. The premise is that the Beast makes a covenant or pact with some persons or nations for seven years. Bearing in mind the above mention of "covenant", it seems much more reasonable that this verse is speaking of the final seven years of the seventy years prophecy(Dan 9:24) and pertains to the earthly ministry of Christ, divided into two three and one half year periods, not the Beast rule or a seven year long tribulations. of course we know even this 3 ½ years will be cut short somewhat(Matt 24:22). The final ministry of Christ, about three and one half years, parallels the reign of the Beast. [Keeping in mind the Scrolls description(Son of Most High, etc.) the following chart may be helpful to illustrate the covenant of seven years ministry]: End of the last age End of this age Three and one half Years of Last Coming --- Three and one half years=Day of Lord ________________________________________________________________________ Num 24:17 a Star will come out of Jacob a Scepter will rise out of Israel. He will crush the foreheads of Moab, the skulls of all the noisy boasters. Edom will be conquered-but Israel will grow strong. A ruler will come out of Jacob and destroy the survivors of the the city. Dan 9:25-27 until the Anointed one comes The people of the ruler who will come there will be 69 sevens(69 weeks of years). will destroy the sanctuary and the city. confirm a covenant for one week The end will come like a flood: (7 years). In the middle of the week He War will continue until the end, and will put an end to sacrifice desolations have been decreed. And on and offering. a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out upon him. ________________________________________________________________________

Does this not make more sense and fit Scripture better? The verse of Habakkuk 3:2 seems to speak of these years and cries out for the Lord God to get on with the ministry: ..."O Lord, revive your work in the midst of the years! In the midst of the years make it known; in wrath remember mercy"(NKJ). Based on the information presented as well as various other Scripture, the "Covenant of seven years" seems to be a Covenant between Christ and His people rather than the Beast and others.

The Scrolls also speak of a certain group (the "Poor of the flock"-Zech 11:10) who will be spared from the tribulations. This is a certain measure of physical protection and is in accordance with Rev 3:10 and 12:14. This infers physical protection rather than a rapture, and is apparently connected with the sixth church of Rev 3:7-10. The theme of testing and trials for the elect is repeated throughout the Scrolls. In addition there is the strong denotation that the elect will participate with Jesus in the final conflict of the age which is popularly known as "Armageddon". Such participation is also mentioned in Zechariah 14:5 & 14 and elsewhere in the Bible. Along with the trials there are similar assurances that God will not desert His people and will uphold them in mysterious ways. According to the Scrolls one of the ways God will support His elect during a coming famine by feeding them by angels as they sleep. There is also the mention of a "stronghold' (or fortress) at a certain point which will protect the elect, no doubt inspired by Psalms 27. This "stronghold" may correspond to the sealing of the 144,000 prior to the seventh seal (Rev 7:1-17). This 144,000 seems to represent the elect of God who are alive at this point in time and the Scripture says they will be given total physical protection (Rev 9:4) and somehow sealed (Peace of God-?) against further events. Their redemption will have arrived (Rev 14:1-5). Could this explain the magnificent protection mentioned in Psalms 91:7-8?

Grapes of Wrath

A movie classic entitled "Grapes of Wrath", based on the Oklahoma dust bowl depression era of the 1930s, was produced some years ago. The title was based on the Biblical concept that God would preserve certain wicked humans for the Day of His Wrath (Rev 19:15). The Qumran texts provide insight into this concept and reveal a reason for this to happen. The Thanksgiving Hymns (1QH) denote that certain of those God determines are wicked were created for this coming time of wrath to serve as a sign and a wonder to all humanity of God's glory and power. As follows: ..."If he is wicked he will become a sign forever and a wonder to every generation and an object of horror to all mankind- The wicked You create for the time of Your wrath. You vowed them from the womb to the Day of Massacre for they walk in the way which is not good. They have despised Your covenant and their souls have loathed Your truth and they take no delight in Your commandments and they have chosen that which You hate"...

Ariel-Ariel

Hal Lindsey and Jack Van Impe both expect the initial end time attack on Jerusalem to come from Russia and/or the Eastern nations. Both use chapters thirty eight and thirty nine of Ezekiel to support their conclusion. The attack described in these two Ezekiel chapters does not occur for over a thousand years when the Jerusalem area is at peace (Ezek 38:8-12). This same attack to occur roughly a thousand years from now is described in Revelation 20:8- 9 after Satan is released for a short time to stir up trouble (verse 7). They are correct about the attack coming on Jerusalem but not the identity of the initial attackers. As described in the War Scroll of caves one and four of Qumran we find: ..."the attack of the sons of light against--Edom, Moab, sons of Ammon, (sons of the east?), and the Philistines"... The "sons of light" as used in this verse is not a spiritual term but these represent the earthly armies of Israel in very worldly battles. The Scrolls account goes on to mention Levi, Judah, and Benjamin as assembling and joining the "exiled sons of light" who have returned from the desert of the peoples to camp in the Desert of Jerusalem. After the battle they will go up to Jerusalem. This could be the moment the Beast ("Wicked Priest" of the Scrolls) commits the abominations spoken of in the Bible and the Scrolls. As noted in chapter three these four Arab nations are Iraq, Iran, Jordan, and the Palestinians. The Bible refers to the current Middle East peace accord in Isa 28:14-15 where God calls it a "covenant with death." It will sadly not endure (verses 18-19). There has been much confusion concerning the coming Last Days Jerusalem conflict. Some teach only one attack occurs, but the Biblical truth(and Scrolls) indicates more than one attack is to occur on Jerusalem. Those who think only one attack occurs blend the details of the first and last attacks and confuse the issue. The first attack is "THE SIGN" of the beginnings of the Tribulations as the Apostles asked Jesus(Matt 24, Mark 13, Luke 21). The first attack occurs at the beginning of this period (Luke 21:2, Rev 11:2, Zech 1:18-21 Isaiah 22:8, first Lot-DSS War Scroll). This first attack is a devastating and terrible defeat (Luke 21:20&24). Very unexpected (Lam 4:12)! Then it spreads (Ezek 5:4). The Scrolls indicate there will be selective death, quoting Ezek 9:4, with a marking by the man(angel) with the writing kit of those who will survive the attack. The initial attack is to be from Iraq, Iran, Jordan, and the Palestinians(symbolic Edom, Moab, Ammon, & Philistia respectively). These are also the four horns of Zechariah, and the craftsmen are the primary Western industrialized nations come to retaliate(Zech 1: 18-21). The final attack is from the 200 million man force of the Eastern armies spoken of in Revelation. Different conflicts and different attackers. The Scrolls emphasize that Jerusalem is the focus not only of the first conflict of the Last Days but also the center of the last conflict . The Last attack in this age on Jerusalem, corresponding to the last of seven lots of the Scrolls, occurs just before Christ intervenes (Zech 12:1-9, 14:1-5, 14: 12-15, Joel 3, Isaiah 63:1-6, DSS War Scroll seventh Lot, DSS Isaiah 10 commentary, DSS 4Q176). In the last attack the city will be taken and half will go into captivity but the city is not completely conquered (Zech 14:1-2), just prior to Christ's appearance and redemption. Then Judah(the Jews) will be rescued first, with comforting and consolations as the Scrolls point out, having paid a dear price. Likewise in the New Testament Jesus vividly underscores Jerusalem as the initial conflict in Matt 24:16, Mark 13:14, and Luke 21:20, so this should not surprise Christians. Jesus even describes Jerusalem as the "carcass" where the eagles(retaliating nations)" will gather (Matt 24:28). The Scrolls indicate the last attack of this age upon Jerusalem will come at the seventh and final lot of the war period which perfectly describes the battle known as Armageddon (corresponding to the seventh trump) at the appearance and intervention of the Lord. The firstfruits resurrection occurs at this point. The identity of these final attackers is Russia and the Eastern oriental armies, with elements of all nations of the earth joining in with various axes to grind. This final power block is the third KITTIM(Asshur) and they are spoken of in the Scrolls Nahum commentary, War Scroll, and Isaiah commentaries extensively. In this War Scroll commentary (with Isa 31:8) Gog is identified along with Assyria (Russia). Another oriental element, "Japheth" is also in action with these forces during the seventh lot. These Russian/Oriental nations would as noted correspond to the 200 million man army which crosses the Euphrates River (Rev 9:16). The natural path for such an attack would be through Iran, Iraq, and Jordan. It appears at some point both Jordan (Ammon) and Iran (Moab) are taken over by the eastern armies (Ezek 25.,4&10), and perhaps Iraq joins in this last ill-fated attack on Ariel. Just as God once delivered Jerusalem from Sennacherib (Isa 37:36) He will once again deliver it from symbolic Assyria(Scrolls Nahum and Isaiah commentaries). The Scrolls use both the book of Nahum and Isaiah chapter ten to portray the final phases of the conflict leading up to the visible intervention by God.

The Abyss and the Lake of Fire

The ninth chapter of the book of Revelation speaks of a "bottomless pit (or abyss), and we find a "lake of fire" in connection with judgment (Rev 20:15, 21:7). Speaking of a time during the coming tribulations John the Baptist writes describing the "abyss" in the Thanksgiving Hymns: ..."As the Abysses boil above the fountains of the waters, the towering waves and billows shall rage with the voice of their roaring , and as they rage, Hell and Abaddon shall open and all the flying arrows of the Pit shall send out their voice to the Abyss--- the deeps of the Abyss shall groan amid the roar of heaving mud"... This description seems to identify the "abyss" as an active volcano. The throat of a volcano provides entrance into the molten core of the earth, which would certainly be bottomless. Interestingly enough, several Biblical and other ancient writings suggest the rebelling Spirits are imprisoned in the depths of the earth, and that the "lake of fire" is directly connected to and underneath the hot springs which are on earth in this age. Jesus-Son of Aaron

The discussion including Jesus as a bloodline descendant of Aaron through His mother Mary may help to explain the puzzle of His genealogy. Past attempts to reconcile the genealogy found in Matthew chapter one and Luke chapter three of the New Testament- have not been successful. Certain of the names given are clearly Aaronic names. Even without the relation of Mary and Elizabeth the kingly and priestly bloodlines had merged in the past. Aaron married a daughter of Judah (Exod 6:23) and a king of Judah was married to a daughter of Zadok (2 Kings 15:33). John the Baptist, writing at Qumran, was in a good position to know of this lineage because John was a cousin of Jesus and of the line of Aaron himself. This aspect of Christ's genealogy is of interest to a Christian but not of any great significance. However, it may be of more interest to Jewish believers because the Aaronic line carried a certain authority.

Coming and Appearing of Christ

The study of the Scrolls brings out an interesting point concerning the Coming of Christ. At no time during the tribulations of the Last days is there a suggestion that any human will see Jesus until the time of the intercession at the final battle at Jerusalem (Isaiah 10 Commentary 4Q161-4). This concerns Isaiah 10:28-34 where The Lord is on a path from Acre to Jerusalem in glory and the Scrolls say "none is like Him". The last trump of Revelation signals the end of this age and the beginning of the next which is the third(often called the "Millennium") so the question occurs-"If Christ is here during the entire time of the Great Tribulations, is He perhaps invisible until the end?" The condition of invisibility would be a reasonable explanation of Matt 24:23 where Jesus says if anyone says they see Him not to believe them, in context of the beginnings of this time. We find a description of this same future time in chapter three of the book of Malachi, and a distinction is made in verse two between the coming which is connected to endurance(trials) and the appearing which is associated with standing(judgment). Again in such verses as Rev 19:11, Col 3:4, 1 John 2:28, 1 Tim 6:4, and 1 Pet 5:4 the time for the redemption of the Elect is connected with appearing. If this is true the coming may occur early on while the appearing of the Lord happens at the last trump. The coming is explained in Matthew 24, then "after the tribulation of those days" the appearing and redemption is described (verses 29-31). The coming, it seems from these Scriptures, will not be unannounced but will be accompanied by such visible signs seen throughout the earth that it cannot be ignored, these signs being just as visible as lightning (Matt 24:27) to all ends of the earth. These signs will no doubt be announced by the last prophet.

Election

The Scrolls inject an interesting point concerning calling and judgment by God. The Scrolls (lQS-Community Rule) state:..."the destiny of all the living may be according to the spirit within them at the time of visitation-- God knows the reward of their deeds from all eternity --- The spirits of truth and falsehood struggle in the hearts of men and they walk in both wisdom and folly-- until the judgment-- rewarded with punishment by plagues and extinction in the fire of the dark regions"... Other Scrolls texts indicate some people are never called by God because He knows beforehand that these would choose to walk in evil.

Mystery

The following text seems to refer to the mystery of the vision of the Last Prophet and may be a commentary on Isaiah chapter eleven (1Q27): ..."They know not the mystery to come, nor do they understand the things of the past. They know not that which shall befall them, nor do they save their soul from the mystery to come. And this shall be a sign for you that these things will come to pass. When the breed of iniquity is shut up wickedness will be banished by righteousness as darkness is banished by the light. As smoke clears and is no more, so shall wickedness perish forever and righteousness be revealed like a sun ruling the world. All who cling to the mysteries of sin shall be no more. Knowledge will fill the world and folly will no longer exist. This word shall surely come to pass. This prophecy is true. And by this it may be known to you that it will not be taken back"... .

Chapter 7-Scrolls End of Age "Echo"-Voice from the Past . Among the dreams of mortals is a dream to live forever. Where do we find hope for eternal life? Some people expect mankind to provide an answer through genetic engineering. Others may turn to cryogenics and arrange to have their bodies frozen in hopes of future medical breakthroughs, and some expect to be reincarnated in another lifetime. According to the Bible the only hope for eternal salvation is Jesus Christ. He is the Savior and also the judge. Therefore neither genetics, cryogenics, or any device can elude His hand (Psa 50:22). The hope on the one hand is endless glory while on the other is the brutal kiss of death. There is no "Mister-in-Between" in this game of life. Salvation and the Bible are also the purpose and focus of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Are the Dead Sea Scrolls important to people of today? Only if they are interested in God's plans and their own future. From the Scrolls we learn of dynamic world disturbing individuals and events which will affect the destiny of every living human on earth in the days to come. We also learn who we may expect to see come upon the world scene, and what is expected from those who would follow God as these events and persons approach. John the Baptist wrote in the Scrolls, speaking to God: ..."I have loved You freely with all my heart"... ..."the closer I approach the more am filled with zeal against the workers of iniquity and the men of deceit(1QH)"... These attitudes would also presumably apply to the Last Prophet and to those who listen to him.

Appearance of the Last Prophet

From examination of the description provided in the Scrolls we have a reasonable description of this coming Last Prophet. Look around for an obscure individual with troubles such as are not uncommon in the lives of many of us(Psa 40:12). This Scrolls/Biblical description is not a totally unique depiction and it would likely fit more than one person but it is a good beginning. Should a prospective Prophet appear, we can examine this description. Does he fit this description found in Psalms thirty seven through forty three? If not then this is not the Last Prophet. If he does fit the description then he must also pass the Biblical tests such as found in Deut 13:1-5 & 18:22. Essentially, if this Prophet makes predictions and they do not come true he is not a true Prophet from God. He may be a Christian but he is not a Prophet, according to the Bible. God is careful to fulfill the words of His Prophets (Isa 44:26, 1 Sam 3:19). During this and earlier centuries many have made predictions based on their interpretation of Scriptures. In the New Testament Jesus speaks of one of the proofs of a true prophet as by their fruits. What is the fruit of a prophet if not their predictions? How many of the earlier specific predictions came true? Is there a difference now? A great difference! The Dead Sea Scrolls have been found, reconstructed, and interpreted. Not all of the findings have become public, but they may soon. Another proof will be his message. Does it harmonize with the message we see in the Dead Sea Scrolls? If it does not conform, then how can this one be the Prophet? We should see an echo of the events spelled out in the Qumran Scrolls, and of course his message must concur with the Bible. When will this Last Prophet be seen? Considering the developments of the Scrolls and the present level of understanding it is almost certain that he lives among us today. God prepared the Scrolls for our benefit by means of John and his disciples 2000 years ago. Reflecting upon the latest Scrolls developments the timing of the appearance of this Last Prophet would by all logic be very near today. Perhaps he is only waiting for John the Baptist to be recognized as the leader at Qumran. Seven Divisions

Since the Scrolls indicate 'seven divisions', an obvious application to the seven churches, this would rule out any theory that these seven refer to church ages or eras as some teach. It would also indicate these seven were of God's Elect and not apostate as others imply. Just as Jesus used old and new wineskins and garments to compare the old and new covenants, He also symbolized the twelve apostles as twelve baskets of leftovers at the feeding of the first multitude (Luke 9:17). The first multitude represented the ministry of the Last Coming. The second multitude represents the ministry of the Next Coming. Twelve would remain after Jesus was resurrected to spiritually feed many, beginning this Covenant age. Twelve is the Biblical number for a new structured beginning. It would follow in natural order that the seven baskets of leftovers connected with the feeding of the second multitude (Matt 15:37) would be the seven churches noted in Revelation chapters two and three at the second coming. Seven is the Biblical number commonly signaling completion. Twelve apostles began the instruction to begin this age and seven churches will be involved in the instruction to end this age. What is the identity of these seven? Perhaps they will be the first seven to respond to the Last Prophet. Yet it appears one of these seven churches may become a traitor in the eyes of God. The use of the seven churches does not limit other church groups. The original apostles were not the only instructors in early Christianity. The Scrolls placed emphasis on overall unity among believers. This should be a good lesson for all Christians not to allow lines of denomination or prejudice of any kind to separate us from other brethren. Are not verbal media attacks on other Christians judgmental? If there are differences in beliefs, is correction not part of the Last Prophet's assignment?

Signs and Wonders

During our days we have not seen many miracles and wonders from the Lord. Some have witnessed certain miraculous healings or the grace or peace of God, but most of us have not seen the Red Sea part or other outstanding miracles. Could this change? Speaking to Ariel (Jerusalem) the Lord appears to have much to say about the approaching days in Isaiah 29 which directly corresponds with the Scrolls: ..."woe to you Ariel--I will besiege Ariel--your speech will mumble out of the dust-- suddenly, in an instant, the Lord Almighty will come with thunder and earthquake--for you this whole vision is nothing but words in a scroll--their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men--Therefore once more I will astound this people with wonder upon wonder (NIV)"...

More Writings?

There is mention in the scrolls that a list of names of the members of Qumran was recorded. There is also a statement that a list of names of members would be recorded once they moved to Damascus. Where are these lists? Perhaps they will turn up, and other important ancient writings will also be discovered. There are mentions in ancient manuscripts that certain writings of Enoch were to be preserved by two angels until the Last Days. Noah was the great-grandson of Enoch. Could these missing writings of Enoch have been left on the ark, frozen and preserved for discovery today? Or perhaps the Ark of the Covenant may turn up. The scrolls mentioned in the hiding places of the Copper Scroll may be important writings. Who knows what may turn up?

Faith of the Fathers

As we find reflected in the New Testament Scriptures, apostasy began to surface among Christianity soon after Jesus' public ministry. After the Roman attacks around 70 A.D. the churches of Syria and Asia Minor became the foundational core of the Apostolic teachings handed down from Christ. These churches of Asia Minor maintained unbroken succession in the time of the Apostle John, Ignatius of Antioch, Onesimus, Polycarp, and Polycrates into the late part of the second century. At that time the Church at Rome had no special authority and it was never able to establish Apostolic succession through Paul or Peter try as it might. In fact the early Christians in Rome were primarily migrants from Asia Minor. The Asia Minor churches taught and maintained that Jesus had been crucified as the Lamb of God on the fourteenth of Nissan (formerly Abib) which was the Old Testament Passover. The Roman church had decided to change this date to a Friday crucifixion and a Sunday resurrection and began to practice using these new dates.. All the churches of Asia Minor vehemently opposed this and the issue became a heated controversy known as the Quartadeciman controversy. This word means "fourteen"(the original Passover date) in Latin and the Quartadecimans of Asia Minor were led by Polycarp while he lived. Near the year 155 A.D. Polycarp met with Anicetus, the bishop at Rome, and discussed the matter. They agreed to disagree but remained friends. Polycarp was martyred by the Romans a year later. Polycrates succeeded Polycarp as bishop of Smyrna and spokesman for the Asia Minor churches. While Polycrates was bishop at Smyrna, Victor (189-199) became bishop at Rome. He was the first Latin bishop at Rome. Victor attempted to excommunicate all churches who did not accept the new changes of the Friday crucifixion and Sunday resurrection. He was met by so much opposition from Irenaeus of Gaul and others that he relented. Later in the early 300s the Roman Emperor Constantine accepted the growing Christian church and religion as the official religion of the Roman Empire. The Roman church had won the Quartadeciman issue with the powerful alliance of the Roman empire. How many other departures of the original teachings of the church fathers were instituted at the pleasure of Rome during this time? Perhaps we will never know, but we do have Bible Scriptures with which we may set certain matters straight. Let us examine just one single point from the above at this time. Let us accept for the moment that the Apostolic fathers just may have been correct about the date of the crucifixion as transpiring on the Hebrew Passover of 14 Nissan. Scriptures seem to support this date (Rev 13:8, John 1:29, 1 Cor 5:7). Jesus gave one firm "sign', the sign of Jonah, that He would be in the grave three nights and three days (Matt 12:39-40). We know that when the women arrived before daybreak Sunday He was not in the tomb (John 20:1). The verse in Mark 16:9 which seems to read that Jesus rose on Sunday is among another group of suspect verses (Mark 16:9-20) which do not appear in the most reliable and ancient Greek manuscript versions as most Bible margins will caution the reader. Perhaps we have another case of editing? Let us check the evidence. If you accept that Jesus really meant three days and three nights and count backwards you realize the very earliest He could have been crucified was Wednesday. Much twisting of circumstances is required to count three days and three nights from Friday until dawn Sunday! In order to understand the situation we need to review some basics concerning the Old Testament spring holy days. First came the Passover which was not one of the "high Sabbath" holy days, but was observed as the "day of preparation" for First Day of Unleavened Bread(the first annual holy day). The eating of the Passover lamb took place after sundown of the previous day. If the Passover were the fourteenth, the lamb meal was eaten after sundown of the previous evening, the thirteenth. The "First Day of Unleavened Bread" was a "high Sabbath" holy day. In that particular crucifixion week there were two Sabbaths-the "high Sabbath" immediately following the Passover and the weekly Saturday Sabbath. The Jewish day began at sundown the evening before and is still observed the same way to this very day. The entire eight day Spring Holy season was often called "Passover" since it began with the Passover day. With the crucifixion taking place on a Passover of Wednesday, the Last supper would naturally have been scheduled on Tuesday after sundown just as the original Passover was kept in Egypt. The betrayal, trial, and crucifixion would have gone through the night into midday Wednesday. The next day being the high Sabbath (First Day of Unleavened Bread) they would have needed to hurry His body into the tomb since this was a preparation day. This is precisely what we find (John 19:14). In fact we find that the crucifixion date was indeed the preparation day for the "high day Sabbath (John 19:31)' not the weekly Saturday Sabbath. The Jewish terms for "Passover" and "Days of Unleavened Bread" are so connected they are often used synonymously. For instance about 6 A.M. on the day of crucifixion (John 19:14) the mention was made that this was the preparation day for the Passover. We know that Jesus and His disciples had already eaten the Passover meal the night before, which would have been correct concerning the timing. This "Passover" simply refers to the holy day season, and even today this entire Spring Old Testament holy day season may be called "Passover" by Jews or others. Therefore, from Scripture we see that Jesus may well have been crucified on the Passover day as the early fathers maintained. With a Wednesday crucifixion Jesus would have arisen on Saturday which was truly three days and three nights later fulfilling His sign of Jonah. This is further supported by the custom of the Romans releasing a criminal from a sentence to the Jews on this day (Luke 23:17), as the natural day for symbolic release would be the actual Passover day. In connection with this some experts believe the calendar of 364 days used by the community of Qumran would have made each Passover always fall on Wednesday of each year. This would fit the Qumran calendar if these scholars are correct. Considering the above the midweek crucifixion would be symbolic of the midweek(3 ½ years) of Daniel 9:27 where "in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering", speaking of the Old Testament holy days and ritual offerings. The entire Passion week may portray the seven years of personal intense ministry in two parts of 3 ½ years. The Hab 3:2 verse also supports this conclusion.

Zechariah-Powerhouse book of Mystery

Perhaps no single book of the Bible contains as many mysteries as the amazing book of Zechariah. We find in this book certain unique mentions such as mountains of bronze, woman in a basket, two mysterious staffs, and a flying scroll. The omission of more commentaries on this book by John the Baptist is interesting because this book is a powerhouse for revealing God's plans. We know this because of the great number of prophecies which predicted the Last Coming contained in this relatively small book. In addition, chapter fourteen contains certain details of the appearing and intervention of Christ at the last Jerusalem battle which are not found elsewhere. Could this book contain within these earlier chapters the sequence of certain events leading up to the Last Days? Could the description of world events found in verses eight through eleven of chapter one fit the time immediately after the demise of the Soviet Union and the breaking down of the Berlin wall? At that very time world leaders proclaimed "Peace at last, peace at last-we have done it". No, This condition of calm did not hold as the Balkans and other conflicts flared up, but what else could these verses describe? If this did describe that singular time, what then do the other symbols stand for? Possibly the Last Prophet will have more answers on the obviously powerful book of Zechariah.

Immortals and Humans

We also learn from the Scrolls that there will be two very different groups of inhabitants in the Kingdom: 1. The first group are immortal beings-INHERITORS. These are the Saints, the Elect of God, redeemed by the Lamb who have attained to the first resurrection at Christ's appearing. In the Scrolls these are called "Princes of the Kingdom", "Priests", "Sons of Heaven", "Gods", and "Sons of God". 2. The second group are mortal living human beings who have survived the Great Tribulations. Though these have not repented (Rev 9:20) and turned to God they will be chosen by God (Zeph 3:11-13) to be survivors so that they may have a future opportunity to turn to Him, or perhaps just because a loved one is an Inheritor. Many of these will be relatives or children of the Inheritors (Pro 11:21). Though each person must answer for his own conduct (Ezek 14:12-20) God promises throughout the Bible and Scrolls that He will consider the offspring of the faithful, even save them (Isaiah 49:25). On the other hand for those who reject God, He may ignore their children (Hos 4:6). As noted in the Scrolls Damascus Document-..."He raised for Himself men called by name, that a remnant might be left to the land, and that the face of the earth might be filled with their seed"... And in the Thanksgiving Hymns (lQH)..."that their seed may be before You forever"...

Two Temples

Another clear teaching of the Scrolls is that there will be two different temples in the Kingdom corresponding to these above two different groups of inhabitants: 1. One temple will be a holy spiritual temple for the inheritors into which no human can enter. From Scrolls Midrash (4Ql74):...This is the House which he will build for them in the last days-the Sanctuary--there shall My Holy Ones be"...(This corresponds to the "New Jerusalem" of Rev 21:10-22:5). 2. The other will be a physical temple for the human survivors to worship and offer sacrifices in the manner of Moses. This above Scroll text speaks of it in this way: ..."he has commanded that a sanctuary of men be built for Himself, that there they may send up, like the smoke of incense, the works of the law"... The Temple Scroll of Qumran and the temple of Ezekiel chapters forty through forty-eight provide details of this future earthly temple in the Kingdom. The Scrolls provide an interesting aspect of Christ relegating authority to the Inheritors just as the Father did for Him. Isaiah 11:3 reads : ..."He will not judge by what He sees with His eyes, or decide by what he hears with His ears (NIV)"

Scrolls(4Q161-4): -."Interpreted, This means that as the priests instruct Him so will He judge, and as they order so will He pass sentence"... (speaking of Christ as the "branch of David")

Original Sin and Torment

The Scrolls do not support the notion of "original sin" such as taught by Augustine and others. Neither do the Scrolls mention any place of "purgatory" or everlasting torment of the nature taught by some Christian groups. The Scrolls spell out "trials in this lifetime and redemption and eternal rewards in the Kingdom" for the Elect and "punishment in this lifetime with the eventual penalty of death" for those who are wicked. Inheritance in the Kingdom of God

As mortals interested in living forever we might naturally be interested in what comes next. What will be the reward of the Saints in the Kingdom of God? Where will we be and what will be our role? What will we be? Expectations vary greatly it seems. Some expect to go to heaven and others expect to stay and rule the earth. The Scrolls show that it will involve both heaven and earth. Most Christians surely agree that the "Inheritors" will live forever in Christ's presence (Rev 22:4-5) ,share His rule (Rev 3:21), and be like Him (1 John 3:2). The matter of reward and roles in the Kingdom is a deep matter for our human minds. The spiritual matters of God are far deeper than any science fiction, and worthy of study. The Bible WILL prove to be the most complicated and yet the most accurate instrument on earth. The Scrolls have much to say about the matter of inheritance and we may find these texts to be a refreshing drink of knowledge concerning inheritance in the Kingdom of God: [Verses from the Scrolls Community Rule(1QS): ..."the visitation of all who walk in the spirit shall be healing, great peace in long life, fruitfulness, everlasting blessing and eternal joy in life without end, a crown of glory, and a garment of majesty in unending light --- all the glory of Adam shall be theirs:.. [Verses from the Thanksgiving Hymns(1QH): ..."I know there is hope for him that You have shaped from dust for the everlasting council. You have cleansed a perverse spirit of great sin that it may stand with the host of the Holy Ones, and enter into community with the assembly of the Sons of Heaven --- They shall be your Princes in the company of the Angels--You will give to the children of Your truth unending joy and everlasting gladness and according to the measure of their knowledge, so shall they be honored one more than another --- You will adorn him with Your splendor and cause him to reign amid many delights with everlasting peace and length of days. For You have spoken and You will not take back your word ... You will deliver those who are corrected by Your judgments-casting away all their sins-to inherit all the glory of Adam and abundance of days --- in the everlasting abode, illumined with perfect light forever, with no more darkness, for unending seasons of joy and unnumbered ages of peace ... [From the Sabbath Songs-4Q40]: ..."at their marvelous stations are spirits, multi-colored like the work of a weaver, splendid engraved figures. In the middle of a glorious appearance of scarlet, colors of the most holy spiritual light, they hold their station before the King-spirits of pure colors in the midst of a appearance of white. The likeness of the glorious spirit is like a work of art of sparkling gold. All their pattern is clearly mingled like the art of a weaver. These are the Princes of those marvelously clothed for service, the Princes of the Kingdom, the Kingdom of the holy ones of the King of holiness in all the heights of the sanctuaries of His glorious Kingdom"... [Commentary on Psalms thirty seven (on verses 18-19a)]: ..."to the penitents of the desert who, saved, shall live for a thousand generations and to whom all the glory of Adam shall belong, and also to their seed forever"... (On verse 21):..."This concerns the congregation of the poor who shall possess the whole world as an inheritance"...

What Now?

John the Baptist and his Dead Sea Scrolls have done much to inform us of the coming days. John has introduced us to the Last Prophet, and shown that Biblical Psalms thirty seven through forty three (&45:1, with 35 & 88) concern this individual. These particular Psalms not only concern the prophet but also will concern and apply to all the people of God in coming times. He has also forecast events that may be expected which harmonize with the Bible. We have learned the present dominant nations(U.S. and Europe) represent the Lost Tribes(House of Israel) and God counts them as the sixth of seven world ruling empires portrayed in Biblical prophecy. There are many more mentions of the involvement and return in the Last Days of the Tribes of Israel both in the Scrolls and the Bible. We have learned what may be expected from the people of God during these coming times. The Dead Sea Scrolls represent a burning bush for us today to alert and inform us of what God is doing and what we may expect. Not all will believe this just as not all will accept the word of the Last Prophet, but many will understand and make use of this signal.

Will we believe and accept the testimony of the Last Prophet? The Scrolls tell us our very salvation may depend on this decision. While we live and breath our choices can alter our destiny but when we die our fate is sealed and there is no crossing over the gulf of separation (Luke 16:26). Contrary to some teachings there is no second chance at life, neither by reincarnation or reinstructional judgment. God is watching to see if any will understand and seek Him (Psa 53:2). Each person has a power that can make all the difference, which is the power of choice. Let us not allow anyone to build a wall of deceitful teachings between us and Jesus Christ such as spoken of in Ezekiel chapter thirteen.

Psalms Midrash

The Dead Sea Scrolls community underscored the importance of the "Asaph(50 & 73-83)" and the "Sons of Korah(42, 44-49, 84-85, 87-88)" Psalms for the Last Days. A discourse based on these Psalms concerning the dynamic yet formidable days ahead seems appropriate: man apart from God is like the creature which perishes (Psa 49:20), taking nothing with him (49:17). Man who is in honor, yet does not understand, is like the beast that perishes (49:20). God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea (46:1-2). The Mighty One, God, The Lord, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to the place where it sets. from Zion, perfect in beauty, God shines forth. Our God comes and will not be silent; a fire devours before Him and around Him a tempest rages (50:1-3). Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you and you will honor Me (50:14-15). God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in time of trouble, therefore we will not fear, though the earth be removed (46:1-2). Gather to Me My consecrated ones, those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice (50:5). He who sacrifices thank offerings honors Me, and he prepares the way so that I may show him the salvation of God (50:23). [NIV]

May God bless You with eternal salvation.