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EXODUS 28 The Breastplate was called the "Oracle of judgment" or the "breastplate of the (oracular) decision" (favorable or
unfavorable). The Breastplate had: a. Had 12 stones with names of 12 tribes (by blessing) c. Had 12 stones with names of 1 tribes (by blessing)Levi's name not mentioned because this tribe couldn't own anything and they were
appointed to be the priesthood. Joseph's name removed and his two sons Manasseh and Ephraim are placed by blessing. EAST GATE: LION
TOPAZ/TO SEEK......ISSACHAR/REWARD CARBUNCLE/GLITTERING......ZEBULUN/HABITATION
SOUTH GATE: MAN
EMERALD/HEALING.....REUBEN/SEE A SON SAPPHIRE/TO DISCERN.....SIMEON/TO HEAR DIAMOND/ADAMANT......GAD/OVERCOME
WEST GATE: OX
LIGURE/MYSTERY.....EPHRAIM/DOUBLE PORTION AGATE/DELIGHT......MANASSEH/FORGETFULNESS AMETHYST/HARD......BENJAMIN/SON OF MY RIGHT HAND
NORTH GATE: EAGLE
BERYL/SUBDUE......DAN/JUDGE ONYX/FIRESPLENDOR......ASHER/BLESSED JASPER/TRANSPARENT....NAPHTALI/WRESTLER
The Breastplate was made of the same fabric as the Ephod. Upon the Breastplate were had 12 stones with the names of the 12 tribes of Israel (by
blessing). Although Levi was one of the 'birth' sons and his name inscribed upon the Shoulder Stones, Levi's name was not mentioned because this tribe had been set apart and appointed to be the priesthood and could not
own anything. Their inheritance was to be the Lord. Joseph's name was also removed and his two sons Manasseh and Ephraim are placed upon the Breastplate by blessing. The Breastplate lists the names of the tribes by
"blessing". Each stone had its OWN glory, place, and beauty a name inscribed upon each one. Each one differed from the other, but was not in competition, but rather complimented the other. There was diversity, but not
division. THIS IS THE CONCEPT OF BODY MINISTRY. The Breastplate was also foursquare (same as Brazen Altar & Golden Altar) representing to us creation, sacrifice and the power of the cross. The Priestly duties
were that of sacrifice and prayer. Jesus was not only the supreme sacrifice for all creation but He was also the High Priest that ministered the blood covenant for the remission of sin and today, "He ever liveth to make
intercession". Hebrews 7:25. Just as Jesus left all to perform His priestly duties, so we too are to leave all for the cause of Christ and upholding that which He has given us. The Breastplate was worn upon the heart of
the High Priest. Aaron was to carry their names (tribes of Israel by blessing) upon His heart as a MEMORIAL CONTINUALLY before the Lord. (Ex. 28:29; 25:30; 27:20; 30:8; 29:38, 42; Lev. 6:13 & Num. 4:16). Just as the
Breastplate was upon the High Priest, so the Golden Altar was in the heart of the Tabernacle and was a place of prayer. We are upon the heart of the Lord and He continually prays for us according to Rom. 8:34; Heb. 2:9; Heb. 3:1;
and Heb. 7:25-26). As the Church and the priests of the Lord, we are to incorporate the characteristics of the Breastplate in our hearts. We are to carry one another in our hearts and pray for our brethren, upholding and making
petition of their behalf before the Lord. The material forming the front part of the Breastplate was doubled forming a pouch in which was held the Urim and Thummin which were used for judgment. It was also bordered by gold
which represents the divine nature, presence, and faith of God. (Note that the border of The Table of Shewbread, the Golden Altar, and the Ark of the Covenant is also made of gold.) The speaks to us of God always ever
present with us, faithful to the promise that He will never leave nor forsake us. It was secured to the onyx stones on the shoulders and the Ephod by golden rings, ouches and blue laces; just as we are secured to the Lord in Mercy
and Grace. The Shoulder Stones (onyx stones) had the names of the tribes by birth inscribed in gold upon them. The stones were the same without difference between one or the other. Because the Lord paid the price once
for all by "birth", He bears all of us upon His shoulders and CARRIES us. Nothing can separate us from His love (Rom. 8:28-35) The Breastplate also speaks of RESURRECTION AND JUDGMENT. Through the death on the cross,
Jesus overcame death through the resurrection and the world was judged of its sin.
URIM & THUMMIN
ISRAEL As stated before, the material on the front of the Ephod was doubled and made a pouch so that the High Priest could his hand on the inside. Inside this pouch
rested the Urim and Thummin which were used to determine a persons guilt or innocence. Urim (lights) and Thummin (perfections) are plural words. It has been said that one stone was black and the other white. When a
person was brought for judgment, if the priest pulled out a black stone, they were guilty. A white stone meant that they were innocent. Note the 8 Scriptures below: (2) Lev. 8:8 Moses put them into the Breastplate (3) Num. 27.21 Joshua and the nation of Israel were given divine guidance by them. JESUS Jesus, our faithful High Priest is He who has gone before the throne on the behalf of all mankind. It is
through Him that Father speaks and directs all things concerning us. As truly as the High Priest of old would go before the Ark of the Covenant, with the blood of the sacrifice, so Jesus has done so for us according to the
book of Hebrews. He tooks His OWN blood as the final sacrifice for the final judgment of all sin. (Hebrews Chapter 9 and Chapter 10. It is recommended that one read the entire Book of Hebrews) God, who at sundry times
and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of
his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; Heb. 1:1-3 Jesus was
the divine light and the divine perfection of the Father of lights in whom there is neither variableness nor shadow of turning. He was the light and the life of men. His walk was that of obedience and sacrifice. A
true and faithful Priest carrying all the nations of the world upon His shoulders and upon His breast for final judgment. His judgment became their judgment and He returned with a decree from heaven that was eternal and
without corruption. Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of
the Majesty on high; Hebrews 1:3 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. James 1:17 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12 In him was life; and the life was
the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him
might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew
him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the
flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John 1:4-14
As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. Jesus is THE light and walked IN perfection. He was made perfect
through His sufferings and into His hands was committed all judgment. Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal
salvation unto all them that obey him; Heb. 8-9 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: John 5:22 I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is
just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me. John 5:30 And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the
world. John 12:47 Not only did He judge sin in the flesh, but He executed judgment concerning all sin and paid the full penalty that was necessary concerning the release
of all the creation of God from the sin of ONE MAN (Adam). For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin
in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Romans 8:3-4 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to
condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.
Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: Romans 5:18-20 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of
death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of
their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, Heb. 2:9-11 Wherefore in all things it
behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. Hebrews 2:17 CHURCH He
that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth
saving he that receiveth it. Rev. 2:17 The body of Christ (Church) is one with its Head (Jesus). It is to come to fullness (maturity, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings (eulogia) in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom
we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Eph. 1;3-7 For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with
those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of
sins. Heb. 10:1-2 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. Heb. 10:14 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me,
hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. John 5:24 The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.
Luke 6:40 According to Hebrews 1:1-3 as stated above, God has spoken to us. He has declared a message to our hearts which tells us to "awaken unto righteousness and sin not" 1Cor. 15:34. As the children of God, we are
now the express image of the Son in the earth (1John 4:17 and Rom. 8:29). And now we have a message as the true kings and priests unto God our Father, we will live the life which Jesus lived through Him! We will bring
those before us pronounce to them that we judge not nor do we condemn for judgment has already been made. We are simply there to be the ambassadors of reconciliation. And all things are of God, who hath
reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed
unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no
sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. 2Cor. 5:18-21 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among
you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 1Cor. 1:10 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may
approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. Phil.
1:9-11 And finally, let us look at John 3:16-19 which stress so clearly the heart of our Father. Let us forever see and understand that He did all for HE LOVES US! For God so loved the world, that he
gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that
believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and
men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. John 3:16-19 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and
not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. 2Tim. 4:8
(1) Ex. 28:30 They were in the Breastplate (Oracle of
Judgment) and upon the heart of the High Priest who went into the Holy of Holies before the Lord. This symbolized the judgment of a nation. On the day of Atonement, the High Priest would enter the Holy of Holies with
blood of the sacrifice to be sprinkled upon the mercy seat for the sins of a nation.
(4) Deut. 33:8 They were with the High Priest continually.
(5) 1 Sam.28:6 Saul (the old order, tradition) cannot partake of the Lights for he is blind. Neither does he desire the judgment and direction of God, but
rather seeks his direction from a witch.
(6) Ezra 2:63 They could not eat of the Most Holy (Holy of Holies) things (truth) until they
consulted the Urim and Thummin.
(7) Neh. 7:65 Same as Ezra 2:63, therefore a double witness, an AMEN.
(8) Judges 20:26-28 - They were used to determine the mind and will of God for certain persons and situations. In order to use the Urim and Thummin to
inquire before the Lord, the Priest had to stand before the Ark of the Covenant.
The Word tells us that "We are in the light as He is in the light" and "be ye perfect even as your Father in heaven is perfect" (Matt. 5:48) and " to perfect holiness". JESUS
reached into the heart of the Father and brought forth a white stone which decreed us to be innocent through His sacrifice. Upon this stone was a new name (nature) which cannot be known by any man (carnality).
perfection) and rule and reign in righteous judgment. We are to judge
with a righteous judgment which declares to another that they are not condemned but can go their way and sin no more! (John 7:24) One of the supreme examples of the ministry of Christ in the earth is John the 8th
chapter wherein the adultress is brought to Jesus and He releases her from condemnation. This occurred BEFORE
the cross!!!!!!!! He judged her without condemnation through righteous judgment, for He understood that the LAMB WAS SLAIN BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD!
ASHER - ONYX STONE
ISRAEL The name Asher was inscribed in the Onyx stone. Asher means blessed, happy, prosper, straight, honest, go, guide, lead, and relieve. Onyx means fire/or splendor. In
every circumstance, God provided for the nation of Israel. When they came out of Egypt, they carried with them all the riches of that nation and there was not a feeble one among them (Ex. 15:1-18; Psa. 105, 106, 107).
In the wilderness, God made provision once again and fed them manna and provided quail for their meet. Finally under the leadership of Joshua and Caleb, the nation of Israel came out of the wilderness and possessed their
promised land and received their inheritance (Joshua 2:24; 11:23). In the midst of Israel, not only did the Father provide substance for them, but He was a cloud by day and the fire of His presence led them at night (Exodus
13:22).Genesis 49:20 tells us that "Out of Asher his bread shall be fat, and he shall yield royal dainties". Truly the richness of Asher passed on to the generations and his children were blessed, and their blessings
were mutual. David said in the 37th Psalm, the 25th verse: "I've never seen the righteous forsaken, nor their seed begging bread". JESUS It is easy to see how even the name Asher spoke of that which was to
come. Jesus said, "I Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth
life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. and
was the water of life. Those who partook of Him would be filled and never thirst again. He satisfies the hungry soul" John 6:32-35In Luke 4:1-20 Jesus chose to live by the Word of God which is the spiritual bread of life, and he
survived the wilderness experience and came out to possess His inheritance. As the bread of life, He fed the multitudes both physically and spiritually (Matt. 15:29-38)". He came with the promise of abundance for He is the
abundant life (John 10:10). CHURCH The Church is a blessed people, a happy people. And their experience of blessing goes beyond the good times and remains even in the bad times. Natural bread cannot give us what we
need to sustain us to live eternally. It is limited in its ability to give us any form of life at all (Matt. 4:4 & Luke 4:4)! As the children of God we have freely received the Bread of Life (Jesus)and it is the
Word of God that we are to continually partake of to feed our spirit man. Partaking of Jesus will nurture us throughout eternity. Although we will be tempted by the evil one and our flesh, according to 1Cor. 10:13, God
will not let us be tempted beyond what we are able to bear. He knows what we have need of (Matt. 6:24-34). The prosperity of the children of God is to go beyond just the natural man. John III 1:2 Beloved, I
wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. The true Church is not interested in the temporal things, but rather she looks to the things of the Spirit. Her
increase she desires is to be in Spirit and Truth. Nothing can satisfy her other than her one on one relationship with the Lord. Just as Ruth, because she is willing to sleep at His feet, she will enter the ABUNDANT
LIFE. The Father has made us to be joint heirs with Jesus (Rom. 8:17) and has blessed us with every spiritual blessing! Ephesians 1:3 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual
blessings in heavenly places in Christ: " We have His inheritance and His blessing (Gal.3:13-14, 29; 4:7).
BENJAMIN - AETHYST STONE
ISRAEL Benjamin was born in Bethlehem and was the last son of Jacob and Rachel. The birthing of Benjamin brought the death of his mother and in
her final moments, Rachel (soul) called him 'Benoni' (son of my sorrow), but Israel (spirit) called him Benjamin, meaning the son of my right hand (Gen 35:18). Also means: in the widest sense of son (grandson, greatgrandson,
etc. thereby covering all generations to come). It was the bringing of Benjamin to Joseph in Egypt that released the provision of food to Israel (Jacob). Rachel represents the FREEWOMAN, GRACE, and the NEW
ORDER. She had two sons named Joseph (who represents Jesus) and Benjamin (who represents the Church, the SON of the right hand. Note that Benjamin was the only son born to Israel (Jacob) after his name change. Joseph
was the end of the OLD ORDER and the beginning of a NEW ORDER. Leah represents the BONDWOMAN, LAW, and the OLD ORDER. The other ten sons of Jacob (born before the name change) came through Leah. The name of Benjamin was
engraved upon the Amethyst, a purple stone, which symbolized kingly royalty. Purple is the mixture of blue (divinity) with red (man) which also symbolizes God and man becoming one. The Amethyst was purple and signified
royalty, kingship, and redemption. It also represented the Dreamer/Gen. 35:11 - God told Jacob (now Israel) many nations and kings will come from your body (in a dream) In Genesis Chapter 21, Jacob wrestles with God in a
dream. Within that struggle, God touches his hip (The new nature is released and a new walk is born) and Jacob name (nature) is changed to Israel. JESUS Just like Benjamin, Jesus was also born in Bethlehem
(Matt. 2:1 & Luke 2:4-7) and named by his father. In Matt. 1:20-21, the Holy Spirit instructed Joseph in a dream concerning the naming of the child that Mary would bare. "But while he thought on these things, behold, the
angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt
call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins." In John 1:14 'the Word became flesh and dwelt among us' and in John 3:16 Jesus was the 'only begotten Son of God'. He was also the 41st generation
(descendant son) from Abraham. He was was the one who would birth the final generation in the earth, THE 42ND GENERATION, the children of God. A generation which would begin and end in HIM.
Isa. 53:3 A man of sorrows for he was continually rejected and his own knew him not. And it was through his death that redemption was wrought and new life was birthed. Today He is seated at the Father's right
hand.............Acts 7:55; Rom. 8:34; Heb. 1:13, 10:12. He rose from the dead was glorified, never again to see corruption. He is alive forevermore (Rev. 1:18) Joseph's dreams saved Jesus' life....Matt. 2:12 & 22 CHURCH By becoming identified with him, we become acquainted with his sorrows through our repentance (grieving of soul) for our sinfulness. Through the acceptance of his sacrifice and supreme payment of the
full penalty of sin on our behalf, our old nature passes away and a new creation man is born of the power of the Holy Spirit. This new birth causes us to become the sons of God, born of His Spirit! Through water baptism, we
become buried with him, and just as he raised from the dead, so we too are raised to the newness of life Rom. 6:4-7. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by
the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is
crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. The church is the SON of the right hand of the Father in her oneness with Christ Jesus,
with Jesus as the head and the church as His body. We are seated in heavenly places (Eph. 2:6) in Christ Jesus, so if we are in Him, then we are at the right hand of the Father. Col. 2:12 Buried with him in
baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. We are the people of God the Church, and there is something that God is doing in the midst of us.
There is a labor taking place until Christ is formed in us (Gal. 4:19). The Spirit of Christ is in every believer, there has been a nature change take place in them and they have been given a new name by their Father.
And to those who will decrease to their own will and desires, He will increase within them until all that remains is the very essence of who He is. 1 John 4:17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have
boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. And when we SEE Him, we shall be LIKE Him. We shall see visions and dream dreams...Joel 2:28; Acts 7:17. In our heart and our spirit we have
the vision of God and many shall call us DREAMERS, but the day is quickly approaching the reality of those dreams. When Benjamin was brought to Joseph, it was at that time that food was released to the rest of the family that was
in famine! Prophetic? Yes! We are in the day of Benjamin's release!
DAN - BERYL STONE
ISRAEL The name of Dan means to judge, to minister judgment or to plead a cause. It is most significant that this name is engraved in the Beryl stone which represents a subduing
or a breaking. In the beginning, Adam received a mandate from God the Father to sudue and replenish the earth and to be fruitful and multiply. Upon the failure of Adam, that decree then passed to the nation of Israel
as a nation of priests. But continually Israel entered into rebellion. Had they judged their temptations and resisted, they would have subdued that which brought judgment upon them. Dan was to judge his own house as
an equal, judge his tribe. The sin of one man extended through the tribe (idolatry). The sin of Ai. JESUS All judgment is fulfilled in Christ Jesus and the work of the cross, thereby eliminating the judgment of the
law to those who are found to be in Him. Jesus was given the power over all flesh including His OWN (John 17:2) and even had the power to lay down His life and take it up again (John 10:18). In John 12:32, Jesus declared,
"Now is the judgment of this world. Now is the prince of this world cast out". He who was perfect, He who was spotless, He who was righteous condemned (judged) sin in the flesh. He did it as a man subject to all
the temptations of men. What was the standard by which He judged? RIGHTEOUSNESS! Although the law was holy, His righteousness was holier than the law, for it was from Him that the law proceeded. He is the
righteous standard by which the world is judged (Acts 17:31), and because He is the righteous standard, He is the righteous judge (2Tim. 4:8). Jesus did not come to judge the world, rather He came to save it (John
12:47-48)! Jesus did not come to judge nor condemn man, rather He came to condemn and judge SIN. And through the sacrifice of Himself, He put away sin (Heb. 9:26) judged sin in the flesh and fulfilled the righteous
requirements of the law for us (Rom. 8:3-4)! He spoiled principalities and powers and made a show of them openly blotting out the that which was charged against us (Col. 2:14-15). In the 8th chapter of the book of John,
verses 3 to 11, the scribes and Pharisees brought a woman to Jesus caught in the act of adultery. He told them that whoever was without sin was to cast the first stone. None could do so. But Jesus was without sin
and the law was His Father's, yet He exacted a higher law which didn't destroy, but rather brought life to the woman. That law was LOVE! Against which there is no law (Gal. 5:22-23) and it is upon the law of love that
rests ALL the law and the law of the prophets (Matt. 22:37-40). Jesus, through His love and sacrifice, destroyed him that had the power over death, that is the devil (Heb. 2:14). CHURCH We have been given the
power to be sons of God (Ephl. 3:20). In Christ Jesus we have been judged and found to be clean. No longer are we debtors to sin but rather we are now debtors to righteousness. It was at the cross that we died
with Him and were relieved of all the debt of sin. Every penalty due us was paid in Christ. His judgment became our judgment, His death our death, His life, our life. Note that the name/tribe of Dan is not on the
gates of the New Jerusalem for judgment has been removed from her gates! We are not to judge according to the appearance of a person, but judge with righteous judgment (John 7:24). Righteous judgment is a judgment that releases
one from their sin and frees them to be who they are to be. Righteous judgment can only be exacted through love. The church has been called to a 'mercy seat' ministry for the Father desires mercy rather than sacrifice.
The ministry of condemnation is the not ministry of Christ Jesus. It is a counterfeit and operates through a covenant of law which has been fulfilled in Christ Jesus. John wrote that we were to sin not, but he further
encouraged us and removed the cloak of condemnation by telling us that if we did, we had an Advocate, who is Christ Jesus which is just and righteous to forgive our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness (1John 2:12). Yet it
is true that we will judge the world and angels (1Cor. 6:2-3), but we are told, to judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels
of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God (1Corinthians 4:5). God had given power unto men (Matt. 9:8) and we have been given power over unclean spirits, disease, and ALL. THE POWER OF THE ENEMY (Mt. 10:1 &
Mk.6:7 & Luke. 10:19). The focus of the church is not to be upon man, but rather to uphold the righteous standard of judgment which Christ Jesus exacted, the CROSS! For it is in the cross that all men died in Christ
and now can live!
EPHRAIM - LIGURE STONE
ISRAEL: The name of Ephraim was engraved in the Ligure stone which was considered to be a stone of mystery. The name Ephraim means to be doubly fruitful or productive. Joseph brought his two sons Mannasseh and
Ephraim to receive their blessing from Jacob before his death. Although Mannasseh was the one that was to receive the blessing of the firstborn (Deut. 21:17) in Joseph's family, Jacob crossed his hands and laid his right hand
upon Ephraim imparting the double portion blessing (Gen. 48:14).This act by his father was most mysterious to Joseph and quite upsetting. Although Israel was the firstborn, chosen of God to be a royal priesthood and
holy nation before God, she was to soon see that natural descendancy did not entitle her to the firstborn blessing. The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the
glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth (John 1:14). Jesus took the form of a servant and humbled himself unto obedience even unto death and God exalted and gave him a name above every name (Phil.
2:6-11). Plainly He stated that He came to minister (serve) and not to be ministered to (served) Matt. 20:27. Being the first to be born of the Holy Spirit, as the progenitor of the new birth, He
is the firstborn of many brethren (Rom. 8:29) and heir to the firstborn (double portion) blessing. He is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have
the preeminence (Col. 1:18). He is the first in all things. He was the firstborn from the dead, the first to raise Himself, the first to be glorified, and the first to put on incorruption! Although He was the
firstborn and heir to the double portion blessing, His walk and blessings were that of fullness. He was doubly fruitful in all things. Everything that was manifested in his life and the victories he won were not only in
his life but in ours as well. The grave could not hold him & and the grave cannot hold us. He put on incorruption and we shall put on incorruption. He was spotless and we are spotless through his
cleansing. He is life eternal and we have eternal life with him. John 15:1-6 He is the vine and we are the branches. As the Vine,
Jesus is a never ending source of supply. His very life goes forth in power bringing all the nutrients that are necessary for the branches to bring forth fruit. Through coming to Jesus,
God truly is causing us to "forget all of our toil and our fathers house". We are "forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize
of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Phil. 3:13-14). As the branches, we receive our life substance and the fullness of supply from Jesus Christ. We have been born of His Spirit and now it is His life that brings
forth fruit in our lives. It is a mystery was hid in God from the ages and it was "Christ (The Anointed One) in you, the hope of glory" (Col. 1:26-27).
JESUS:
Before the foundation of the world the Father had purposed in His heart the plan of
salvation. It was a mystery that was hid through the ages and was revealed only in types and shadows to the nation of Israel.
Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of
the princes of this world, that come to naught: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they
known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory (1Cor. 2:6-8). The mystery was that God would redeem a creation through one man, fulfilling the righteous requirement of the law. Through this grace, all men
would be perfected in Him, no longer under the heaviness of the law and performance. For through one man's obedience all are free.
It was the cross that brought the double portion blessing (inheritance) to both Jesus and us. Through the cross, the world was judged of its sin (John
9:39-41). The enmity between God and man was slain (Eph. 2:16) and all things were reconciled to God through the cross (Col. 1:20).
CHURCH
Ephesians 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the
beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
GAD - DIAMOND STONE
ISRAEL The name of Gad which means to crowd upon, attack, invade, overcome was inscribed in the diamond. A diamond is a very hard stone and is unchangeable and adamant in its
nature. The diamond also means to conquer, smite, break, or overcome. The prophetic words which were spoken concerning Gad in Gen. 49:19 were that "a troop shall overcome him, but he shall overcome at the last".
JESUS: When we meditate upon the name of Gad and the blessing that went along with it. We can clearly see that it foretold of the Lord Jesus Christ, His sufferings, and His ultimate victory. Truly He was overcome (Acts
2:22-36) but He overcame at the last! He took upon Himself the sin of the world and the principalities and the powers took great pleasure in His demise, however their rejoicing and pleasure was short lived. And the book
of First Corinthians tells us that had they known what was about to happen that they would not have crucified the Christ. In Isaiah the 53rd
chapter, there is a very graphic description of His sufferings. Jesus entered into the very bowels of death and in Rev. 1:18, he declares to John on the Isle of Patmos that He has the keys of hell and death. Isaiah Chapter 53. Ephesians 4:8-10 "Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)"
CHURCH: 1John 3:2 tells us that when we see Him, we shall be like Him (glorified). The Father glorified Jesus and now He is in the process of glorifying the Church. Not the
system, but the True Church of the Lord Jesus the Christ. Corinthians II 4:7-17 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every
side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made
manifest in our body. For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you. We having the same spirit
of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. For
all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; We are to look to that which shall be that what seems to be within our surroundings.
If we faint not, then in due season we shall reap reward. The overcoming people of God have their face set like flint and they are pressing for the prize. The true Church will "forget those things which are behind, and
reach forth unto those things which are before, and press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (Phil.3:13-14). The book of Revelation reveals many promises which are given to "HE WHO
OVERCOMES". The promises are as follows: a. To eat from the tree of life which is in the midst of the Paradise of God. Rev. 2:7
b. Receive the crown of life & not hurt by second death Rev. 2:11 c. Will be given some hidden manna to eat - A white stone with a new name written on it which no one shall know except the one who receives
it. Rev. 2:17 d. Will receive power over nations - The morning star Rev. 2:26-28 e. To be clothed with white garments - Name not blotted out of the Book of Life; Name confessed before the
Father & His angels Rev. 3:5 f. He will be made him a pillar in the Temple of God and He shall go out no more (permanence) Name of God and His City and the Lord's New Name written on us.
Rev. 3:12 g. To sit with Him on His throne Rev. 3:21 The very design of evil and sin is to separate us from God, but Paul tell us in Romans 8:37-39 "
.we are more than conquerors through him that
loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the
love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord". Corinthians II 4:16-17 "For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction,
which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but
the things which are not seen are eternal".
ISSACHAR - TOPAZ STONE
ISRAEL: Issachar is a strong ass couching down between two burdens: And he saw that
rest was good, and the land that it was pleasant; and bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant unto tribute. Genesis 49:14-15 The children of Issachar were mighty men in David's army and because of their
ability to understand the times, all of their brethren heeded their command: And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought
to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment. 1Chronicles 12:32 In addition to the name above every name, Jesus was seated at the right hand of the Father and entered into an eternal rest concerning His labors, and according to
Heb. 2:3 He is crowned with glory and honor. In John the 17th chapter we learn that Jesus worked with what He had (the disciples), and He worked faithfully where He was assigned. Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with
patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of
God. Hebrews 12:1-2 But
without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6 Know ye not that they
which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. In the natural world, only one receives the prize upon finishing the race. And Paul tells us that we are to pursue the Lord as if only one
would get the prize so as not to miss the mark! 1Corinthians 9:24 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14
In essence what He was really saying was that we are never to be lax or slothful in our pursuit. We are to be more than conquerors, however we are not to strive as man would, but rather we must strive according to God's ways. Everyone is rewarded according to our own works and shall be tested by the fire of God (His abiding presence for He IS a consuming fire) - 1Cor. 3:8-15. Only that which is gold, silver, and precious stone can remain in the fire of God. That which is wood, hay, and stubble will be consumed. In order to have works that are they which will stand the fire are those which are wrought through the divine will and purpose of the Father. We must lose our identification and die to our own will so as not to have works which are birthed through the flesh (Lust of the eye, lust of the flesh, and the pride of life).
1. GOLD nature and character of God. Building a people toward maturity, perfection, fullness in the Lord. 2. SILVER redemption, reconciliation and justification. Teaching a people
as to what TRUE redemption, salvation really is. 3. PRECIOUS STONES God's jewels of Malachi 3:17. The people are the jewels of God.
4. WOOD human nature and character, fleshliness. 5. HAY soulishness, psychological, the intellect, emotions, desires framework. 6. STUBBLE a stalk of grain. We think of one or
some and our vision should be for all. The gleaning of the harvest.
So let us run our race with patience, and look to Him. Let us beware and let none take our crown, (Rev. 3:11-12) rather let us overcome and we will receive reward and be pillars in the temple of our
God. And remember that He comes quickly and His reward is always with Him (Rev. 22:12).
The name of Issachar means reward or to hire for payment and was engraved upon the Topaz stone which was golden yellow and represents to seek. This tribe
willingly accepted what was before them & were willing to work with what they had and where they were.
JESUS:
Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took
upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him,
and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:6-11
CHURCH
Reward is not something that is way off in the distant future, rather it is ever present for the body of Christ. There is a joy that is set before us which is coming into that high calling of God in
Christ Jesus. There is a race to be run! And the greatest reward which is before us is the Sabbath Rest. We look many times to just the external things of life and judge the merit of our work. But our reward
is in the pursuing and obeying HIM!!! Joy is always released to those who obey His voice. It is through the seeking of Him that we obtain everything that we have need of, and yes, many times what we receive is greater
than our needs.
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Matthew 6:33.
Recommended reading: Heb. 4 The Rest Chapter
JUDAH - SARDIUS STONE
ISRAEL Genesis 49:8-12 Judah, thou art he whom thy brethren shall praise: thy hand shall be in the neck of thine enemies; thy father's children shall bow down before thee. Judah is a lion's whelp: from the prey, my son,
thou art gone up: he stooped down, he couched as a lion, and as an old lion; who shall rouse him up? The sceptre (authority) shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet (walk), until Shiloh come; and unto him
shall the gathering of the people be. Binding his foal unto the vine, and his ass's colt unto the choice vine; he washed (cleansed) his garments in wine(Spirit), and his clothes (covering, flesh) in the blood of grapes: His eyes
(vision) shall be red with wine (shall have the eye of the Spirit), and his teeth white with milk (truth). One illustration is that of Jehoshaphat. When the Word of the Lord came to him, he sent out the singers to go BEFORE the army into
battle: 17You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!' Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out
against them, for the LORD is with you." 18And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem bowed before the LORD, worshiping the LORD. 19
Then the Levites of the children of the Kohathites and of the children of the Korahites stood up to praise the LORD God of Israel with voices loud and high. 20So they rose early in the morning and went out
into the Wilderness of Tekoa; and as they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, "Hear me, O Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem: Believe in the LORD your God, and you shall be established; believe His prophets, and you shall
prosper." 21And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed those who should sing to the LORD, and who should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army and were saying: "Praise the LORD, For
His mercy endures forever." 22Now when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated. JESUS: Rev. 1:5 "and from
Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood" Ruling Tribe:
Jesus was born through the tribe of Judah
Heb. 7:14 "For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood." Rev. 5:5 "And one of the elders saith
unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof." Rev. 11:15 "And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great
voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever." Rev. 17:14 "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall
overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings." In Heb. 1:8-9 Jesus was given the scepter of righteousness which declared the highest of authority in heaven, in the earth and beneath the
earth. Further confirmation is given of what He received in Matt. 28:18 "All power and all authority has been given unto me
.". In Col. 2:15 he conquered all the principalities and power and in Philippians we see how he was
highly exalted above all things. Because we are the seed of Christ, we too are of the tribe of Judah and are chosen to declare the praises of our God. As the Sardius stone, we truly see that we
are man and that we were condemned through Adam (Rom. 5:15), but now we are the redeemed of the Lord by the blood of His sacrifice (Rev. 5:9). We are of the incorruptible seed (1Peter 1:23) and Hebrews the 10th
chapter and the 14th verse tells us that we have been perfected forever. As a church we have been chosen of God that we may praise Him and bring Him glory and honor. 1Peter 2:9-10 "
But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now
the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy." Our praises of Him are to be more than just singing, dancing, clapping and bowing although that will definitely be a part of our joy before
Him. But the highest praise that we can offer to Him is our lifestyle. Praise will take us over the roughest mountains and keep our hearts stayed upon Him in the hardest of times. And just as the
praisers went before the nation of Israel into battle, so our praise for Him is to stay ever before us. True praise will always destroy the enemy and help us to overcome the flesh nature. With our roots in the tribe of Judah, we too are kings and priests unto our God according to Rev. 1:5-6 "and from Jesus Christ, the
faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory
and dominion forever and ever. Amen." We have a sacrifice to give that our Father is waiting to receive according to 1Pet. 2:5 "also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood,
to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ."
The tribe of Judah was the Regal and Ruling tribe of God. It was out of this tribe that the Lawgiver and Kings
came, and it was from this tribe that the Messiah (the Deliverer) would come as a man and would become the final sacrifice (blood sacrifice) to be given as atonement for sin. As the praises of God would ascend from the midst of
Israel, they released blessing, joy, strength, and victory was always their portion.
In 2Chr.
5:13-14, we see how the praises that went forth brought the glory of the Lord into the temple of Solomon and the priests of the Lord couldn't even stand on their feet to minister!
God said that David was a man after his own
heart and in Amos 9:11 and Acts 15:16-17 that He would restore the tabernacle of David. So great was David's love of God and his praises toward Him, that in 2Samuel 12:19-20 praise brought honor and restoration to him after
the death of his son.
Jesus had both a king and priest ministry. The very life that He lived, was a life of obedience, love, and brought glory and honor to His Father
according to John 17 & Philippians 2. Truly He was the Praise of Jehovah. He was the Messiah which would come as a man and become the final blood sacrifice for the atonement of sin reconciling man back to God.
Truly He was the Praise of Jehovah and Luke 10:21 reveals a glorious picture to us of Jesus praising the Father and rejoicing before Him. Continuously He brought honor and glory to Him. John 17
As we look to the Sardius
stone, we can clearly see the representation of Jesus as a man (John 1:14) bespeaking of His blood which was shed for the remission of sin (Heb. 9). Jesus declared in John 15:13 "
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." And again in John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son
."
Phil. 2:5-10 "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation,
taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly
exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus
Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
Regal Tribe:
Once again in Revelation 17:14 he declared the Lord of lords and the King of kings and in Rev 15:3 He is the King of saints.
Heb. 5:6-10
"As He also says in another place:
CHURCH:
Ruling/Regal Tribe
Those
who love and praise God with their WHOLE heart shall be the ruling leadership in the LIVING church of our God. They will rule because they have the ability to see through the eye of the Spirit and they have feasted upon the
sincere milk of the word and are now the partakers of the meat (solid food).
MANASSEH - AGATE STONE
ISRAEL: When Joseph was a young man, he shared a vision that he had with his brothers and they turned on him and sold him into slavery. Joseph named his firstborn son Manasseh
which means forgetfulness, who makes to forget, or removes. The name Manasseh was engraved upon the Agate stone which represents delight, to become joyful, to flame a spark, or to flash or stream. We find the name
Manasseh in the 41st chapter of Genesis: "For God has made me to forget all my toil (struggles) and all my father's house (past). Gen. 41:51. When the boys were brought by Joseph to his father Jacob to be blessed, Jacob crossed his hands giving the firstborn blessing to
to the second born son which was Ephraim. This was a type and shadow of what was to come concerning the nation of Israel and those who would come through Jesus. A plan of redemption and reconciliation that would span the ages!
Israel was the firstborn nation of God and she received by nature of natural birth, but there was a nation to come that would receive through blessing (Abraham's seed). A nation which would be the firstborn of the Holy
Spirit through the FIRSTBORN SON! JESUS: He was in the world, the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not (John 1:10-11).
All through His walk and ministry, Jesus suffered continual rejection among his creation. In relationship to the mission of Jesus, please note the following scriptures of Heb. 10:5-9:
Therefore, when He came into the world, He said; "Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, but a body You have prepared for Me. In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin You had no pleasure.
Then I said, 'Behold I have come in the volume of the book it is written of Me to do Your will O God.' Previously saying, "Sacrifice and offering, burnt offerings, and offerings for sin You did not desire, nor had
pleasure in them" (which are offered according to the law), the He said, "Behold, I have come to do thy will O God". He taketh away the first that He may establish the second.' Through Jesus we are able to understand that
the Father delights in removing our sin as far as the east is from the west, never to remember it again. It was for the joy that was set before him that He endured the cross and despised the shame (Heb. 12:2). Jesus
died to the old (mortal man) and is alive to the new (immortal man). He IS the Eternal GodMan. God was in Christ on the cross reconciling the world unto Himself imputing righteousness to our account instead of sin.
Even in the final moments of His suffering upon the cross He cried: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do". Luke 23:34. As the beloved Son of God, He released eternal forgiveness. Out of His
pain and suffering, He gave birth to eternal forgiveness which brought great joy and forgetfulness to both Him and the Father. He fulfilled the law, by meeting the requirements, whereby every jot and tittle concerning our
trespasses was forever erased and He swore that He would remember (not to charge them to our account or hold us accountable)them no more! (Matt. 5:17; Col. 2:14; Isa. 43:24; Psa. 103:12). It was the Father's heart to save and
forgive ALL (2Cor. 5:14-15).
CHURCH: All the requirements of the law have been met by Jesus Christ on our behalf, whereby every
jot and tittle concerning our trespasses was forever erased and He swore that He would remember (not to charge them to our account or hold us accountable) them no more! (Matt. 5:17; Col. 2:14; Isa. 43:24; Psa. 103:12). The
world is seeking answers and a release from hatred and suffered wrong. They are looking for a demonstration of God's love. The only way that the love of God can be demonstrated is through forgiveness and not just words.
The Church must do more than talk the talk, they have been called to walk the walk. To be a living demonstration of the love of God in the earth to a creation that is groaning for release. As the children of God, we
have been called to forgive and release all who have offended and transgressed us. Not only to forgive but to forget, meaning not to imputed their sin to their account or to hold them responsible for their wrongs.
Through the sacrifice of Jesus, our penalties have been answered and the law has been fulfilled in us. It was a perfect work which should remove our sin consciousness and bring us into the perfect law of liberty. Any
child of God that condemns others has never really understood their own liberation. They have never come into the understanding that they are no longer accountable and no payment is due. When no condemnation is real in
your life, all you want to do is bring others into that beautiful experience. Not only is Jesus our supreme example, but we have the life of Stephen that demonstrates the release of sin in the midst of a suffered wrong.
Stephen was falsely accused, persecuted for his faith, and sentenced to death. But he cried out to God to lay not the sin of their wrong to their charge. It is in the releasing and forgiving of wrongs suffered that Satan no
longer is able to bring us down through them. We are called to know God and to see Him face to face and to walk in the ways of God. There are even those who are guilty and ashamed and do not understand that He has done all
on their behalf. Those who walk in His ways grow to know Him and are able to behold Him in His majesty, but those who live under the cloak of condemnation will never know anything but His works until they are released.
To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 2Corinthians 5:19 As the body of Christ, let us understand that we will be partakers of His sufferings, i.e. His rejection (1Peter 4:13). When it is all said and done, He shall declare to us, "Well done thou good
and faithful servant. Enter thou into the joy of the Lord" (Matt. 25:23). Read Hebrews 10.
NAPHTALI - JASPER STONE
ISRAEL: In John 7:37 Jesus is the Living water of which we may drink and never thirst again. He is our everlasting water (Luke 4:14). When one wrestles with God, their
walk becomes changed forever. One's walk will never be the same again. Even ones ways of dealing with everyday situations takes on a new persona. Through the struggles of Jesus, the way has been made for us to both live
the life that God has for us and to be more than conquerors. John 7:37 "In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me,
as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water".
Through natural birth, Naphtali was wrestling /
In blessing (Gen.49:21) Naphtali is a deer let loose (released, set free) with goodly words (fruit). Jacob wrestled with God in Gen. 32 (under the law), but when God blessed him, his name was changed to Israel (signifying the
receiving of a new nature).
JESUS:
Many were the trials and temptations that the Master went through and as witnessed to us through the word in the scripture of Heb. 4:15. "For we
have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin". In Luke the 4th
chapter, He is led of the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. Jesus was tempted of Satan in three major areas of life which reflect the same temptations in the Garden of Eden. First came the physical temptation, the lust of the flesh; then the mental temptation with the lust of the eye; and finally the spiritual temptation with the pride of life. In the Garden of Gethsemene (Matt. 26:38-41) there was another trial where Jesus wrestled with His very own soul, but in the end He surrendered His will to the will of the Father. And finally, upon the cross (John 19:30) Jesus wrestled once again, this time with the pangs of death. Following His death, burial, and resurrection, God highly exalted Jesus to sit at His right hand and He exalted the Name of Jesus above every name! His body had put on corruption and now was raised incorruptible never to see corruption again. A new Man in the newness and fulness of the life of God is now seated in the heavens making the way for all to come into that same newness of life. "For this purpose was the son of God manifested, to destroy the works of the devil (death, hell, sin, and the grave) 1John 3:8.
CHURCH:
As a new creation in Christ Jesus, we are now equipped and are given the faith concerning the finished works of Christ to destroy the works of the devil in our own lives. We have received power (Acts 1:78) and we have a treasure within our earther vessels (2Tim. 1:7) which is God's power in us (2Cor. 4:7). We have been given
the power to loose and bind (Matt. 16:19 & 18:18) and the power to tread on serpents and scorpions (Luke 10:19). Paul declared at the end of his journey in 1Tim 6:12 and 2Tim. 4: "I have fought I have fought a good fight,
finished the course, kept the faith" thereby revealing to us the progressive growth and victories in Christ Jesus. It is important for us to be as transparent as water, to be clear and pure. To have a life flowing
from us that is that of the life of God (John 7:38 & Rev. 22). Where the river of life (Holy Spirit) is, there is Life, fruit, and healing for the nations. This river flows from the throne of God which is in the
midst of His people and the heart of every believer.
Gal. 5:1-25 tells us that our spirit and flesh wrestle with each other and reveals to us the works of the flesh and the fruits of the Spirit. Eph. 6:10-18
shows us that our real wrestling is with "principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness, and wicked spirits in high places." 2Cor. 10:4-5 reveals that the "weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God
to the pulling down of strongholds, casting down vain imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself above the knowledge of God"!!! Because we are a prophetic people and Jesus is the Spirit of Prophecy, we are
encouraged in 1Tim. 1:18 to wage the good warfare with the prophecies which have been given to us. Those prophecies are the Word of the Lord in our lives. The weapons of our warfare are the Word of God, and prophetic
utterance which has come to us through the Holy Spirit.
REUBEN - EMERALD STONE
ISRAEL Reuben was the firstborn of Jacob and his name means to 'see behold, perceive, discern, or know a son'. His name was inscribed in the Emerald stone which represented
healing life, birthing, rolling sea (water), turmoil (pangs, pain). Its green color speaks of Resurrection (Life), Restoration (Healing), and Reinstatement (Forgiveness). Reuben was deprived of remaining in first place
because of sin. He didn't control his flesh, however, he was forgiven and reinstated in sonship (grace received). Even though Reuben was the firstborn, his stone was moved to the 4th position which is symbolic of the cross and new
birth. Just like Reuben, the natural nation of Israel was birthed through the lineage of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. She was a nation who was to represent and reveal God to the nations of the world. She was called to be a
nation of priests. Israel couldn't control her passions and was deprived of blessings of sonship through their natural birth: Then will I cast away the seed of Jacob, and David my servant, so that I
will not take any of his seed to be rulers over the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob: for I will cause their captivity to return, and have mercy on them. Jeremiah 33:26 JESUS It was Jesus the Son of God that
would bring eternal healing to mankind and creation. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. The world would behold
Him, the only begotten of the Father. John 1:14 He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions. Psalms 107:20 Jesus was the first to be born of the Holy Spirit; He was the only
begotten of the Father. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince
of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of
the LORD of hosts will perform this. The Lord sent a word into Jacob, and it hath lighted upon Israel. Isa. 9:6-8 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is
with thee: blessed art thou among women. And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour
with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his
father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her,
The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. Luke 1:28-35 Who
is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or
powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all
things he might have the preeminence. Colossians 1:15-17 RESTORATION HEALING And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers
diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. Matthew 4:24 When the even was come, they brought unto
him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick: Matthew 8:16 Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers
diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them. And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak:
for they knew that he was Christ. Luke 40-41 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy
the works of the devil. 1John 3:8 RESURRECTION LIFE Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto
sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Romans 6:9-10 And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise, I will give you
the sure mercies of David. Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was
laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption: But he, whom God raised again, saw no corruption. Acts 13:34-37 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from
the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. Colossians 1:18 REDEMPTION FORGIVENESS And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened
together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; And having spoiled principalities
and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it. Colossians 2:13-15 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they
may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. Acts 26:18 CHURCH Although we were chosen by the Father before the foundation of the world, through
Christ Jesus we come to experience redemption from the Adamic nature. We have been called to arise in this generation and possess our heritage, literally beholding ourselves as the 'sons of God'. Reuben literally means "to
behold yourself as a son". Jesus is the firstborn of many brethren which means that we have the same Father! Consider the following scriptures: John 1:12-13 But as many as received him, to
them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. John I
3:1-2 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not
yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. Romans 8:19-21 For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of
God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious
liberty of the children of God. In relationship to the church, Reuben shows us that sin and fleshly actions will not merit us anything before God. We must go by 'WAY OF THE CROSS'. The
experience of being 'born again', the old man dies and a new creation son is brought forth. We actually walk through the death, burial, quickening, resurrection, ascension, and enthronement of Jesus. As the children of
God, we are a new creation (2Cor. 5:17) being born of water (Holy Spirit) John 3:56. In Mark the 16th chapter we learn that we are to release the life of God as His sons and restore order and life in every area of an
individuals life. We too are to set the captives free and release those who are in darkness. We have been resurrected (Col. 2:12-14), restored (Rom. 5:18-19), and reinstated (Gal. 4:5-7). In John 3:16 we see a
continual resurrection (eternal life); in 2Chr. 7:14, Joel 2:18-32, & 1Peterr 2:24 we find continual restoration (healing); and in 1John 1:9 we have continual reinstatement (forgiveness and grace).
SIMEON - SAPPHIRE STONE
ISRAEL: The name of Simeon means means to hear or to
discern. It also implies obedience, content, understanding, and witness. His name was inscribed on the Sapphire stone which also means to discern. Additional meanings of the name are: to declare, to write, to
inscribe, to enumerate, celebrate, proclaim, show forth, and also to divide or cut. Simeon was very self-willed and deceptive as was the nation of Israel. It was because Israel did not want to hearken to the voice of
God that she was brought under a curse and taken into captivity. God promised her in 2Chr. 7:14 that if she would repent and turn from her wicked ways He would heal her land. Additionally He promised that He would cause the
enemy to have compassion on her children in 2Chr. 30:9. JESUS: CHURCH:
The sons of Issachar also had understanding of the times. "And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel
ought to do;" 1Chr. 12:32. The ending of this verse states that all of their brethren were at their commandment. They looked to them for direction not because they knew what day it was and what year, rather they
looked to them because they understood what was proceeding into their lives in that generation. They had insight and clarity into what was being released by the Father and what to do. In Jeremiah 31:33 the scripture
says that the laws of God would be written upon their hearts. But because of their rebellion and unwillingness to hear, God sent a spiritual famine of His word into their land.
"Behold the days come that I will send a
famine in the land, not a famine of the bread, nor a thirst for the waters, but of the hearing of the exact words of the Lord. And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from north even unto the east, and they shall run to
and fro and seed the words of the Lord and they shall not find it." Amos 8:11
It is very important that we realize that Jesus never did anything just because He wanted to. He told
His disciples in John 4:34: "My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work" and in John 6:38 "For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me."
1.John 8:38 I speak that which I have seen with my Father: and ye do that which ye have seen with your father.
2.John 5:19 Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of
himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.
3.John 12:49-50 For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I
should say, and what I should speak. And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.
It was through His obedience and understanding
concerning the times, that Jesus was able to surrender totally His self-will in the Garden of Gethesemane. Through His ability to hear the Spirit of His Father, He was able to endure the cross that was before Him and "spoil
principalities and powers and make a show of them openly" Col. 2:15. John 6:51 through the end of the chapter is a good example of heeding the letter of the Word, rather than the Spirit of the Word. Those who
heeded the letter could not follow on with the Lord.
John 5: 37 "And Father Himself has sent me and bore witness (evidence) of me, you have neither heard His voice at any time nor seen His shape or form, and you
have not His Word abiding in you. For whom He has sent you believe not. You search the scriptures, for in them you think that you have life, but they testify of Me".
It is very important that we realize that Jesus never did anything just because He wanted to. He told His disciples in
1. John 8:38 I speak that which I have seen with my Father: and ye do that which ye have seen with your father.
2. John 5:19 Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.
3. John 12:49-50 For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.
It was through His obedience and understanding concerning the times, that Jesus was able to surrender totally His self-will in the Garden of Gethesemane. Through His ability to hear the Spirit of His Father, He
was able to endure the cross that was before Him and "spoil principalities and powers and make a show of them openly" Col. 2:15. John 5: 37
"And Father Himself has sent me and bore witness (evidence) of me, you have neither heard His voice at any time nor seen His shape or form, and you have not His Word abiding in you. For whom He has sent you believe not. You search the scriptures, for in them you think that you have life, but they testify of Me".
Mark 7:13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such
like things do ye. Today, there is not a famine for the word, but rather there is truly a famine for the HEARING of the word. People are being tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine and wandering from church
to church without understanding. Many are going after knowledge and thereby miss the spirit of the Word and fail to hear the voice of Lord which is in the Word. It is the Holy Spirit which bring the
understanding of the Word of God. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit brings us into a place where we can HEAR what the Spirit saith! It is the spirit of the Word that gives us life: "Who also hath made us able
ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life" 2Cor. 3:6. To be able ministers we must be able to hear the Spirit of the Word. The Spirit of
the Word is the Father's heart. We cannot understand or even know Him if we cannot hear as stated by Jesus in John 8:42-43
"If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me. Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word". 1. Wayside speaks of the pathway around the planting area that has been plowed but not deeply (preconceived ideals or understandings) 2. Stony - a type of hard surface, takes dynamite to
blow it up (half heartedness, can reason why it might be so, but then allows doctrine or tradition or persecution to come and change our minds) 3. Thorny ground area that has been cultivated which can be planted
and can bring forth but has not been cultivated deep enough to get rid of all the weeds (now not just words, but a reality but the cares of this world remove us from it 4. Good this goes into the spirit our mind
and reproduces the life of God within us. The truth can no longer be denied and fruit begins to spring forth. (One receives with an open heart and presses into a new understanding). All the experiences and thinking
begins to gather and that seed that has been refused 3 times is now suddenly bringing life in you. This heart is lead of the Spirit rather than the letter or doctrines or thoughts of others.
1. Many are sick and sleep among us because we discern not the Lord's body - 1Cor. 11:29 2. So we can be able teachers and discern good from evil Heb. 5:11-14
3. We should be able to discern the signs of the times Matt. 16:3 4. Don't receive an accusation against an elder 1Tim. 5:9 5. Avoid cunning fables 2Peter 1:6
6. Avoid vain babblings 1Tim. 4:7 Matthew 12:50 "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother." And a final warning in the book of
Revelation "Let he that hath an ear, hear what the Spirit of God saith"!
John 6:51 through the
end of the chapter is a good example of heeding the letter of the Word, rather than the Spirit of the Word. Those who heeded the letter could not follow on with the Lord.
CHURCH:
As the children of God we are to hear, discern, and know the will of the Lord for we are called to a life of obedience, not a life of sacrifice or works. When we begin to hear,
tradition becomes separated from truth and we begin to walk in a 'pure word' that is not 'mingled seed'.
Concerning
our hearing, we would do good to heed the parable of the sower and the four types of ground that the seed (Word) is sown in.
Consider the following in relationship to hearing, discerning, and understanding for we are to "take heed what we hear" Mark 4:24:
ZEBULUN - CARBUNCLE STONE
ISRAEL: Genesis 49:13 Zebulun shall dwell at the haven(a place of safety and refuge) of the sea (of the people); and he shall be for an haven of ships; and his border shall be unto
Zidon (a vast supply). John 1:4-9 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness
comprehended it not. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that
Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. Revelation 21:22-23 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. And the
city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. He is the Word of God that has come down from heaven and Jesus is the WAY to the Father. He is the MESSAGE that KEEPS the WAY of LIFE.
CHURCH It is only through Jesus (the Word, the Message) that we may approach the Father. As we allow the sword of the Spirit to penetrate our hearts for circumcision, it now can divide soul from spirit.
Through His Word, we know that which is soulish and that which is spiritual. In John 15 we find the parable of the Vine and the branches. God has always wanted a people within whom He could
dwell. 2Cor 6:16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple (the inner part of the tabernacle) of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be
their God, and they shall be my people. This profound desire of the Father became a reality through Jesus Christ. And the plan to make it a reality was love. John 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a
man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. In John, the 14th
chapter, Jesus revealed the plan to leave the natural realm and to return and set up residence in each and every believer. We are the abiding place of Him. God abiding in mankind and touching a creation. Not
only is our habitation in God, but His habitation is also in us (Acts 17:22-29). We are the dwelling place that is made without hands (Acts 7:48-50); and we are being builded together a holy habitation of God through the
Spirit: For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built
upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for
an habitation of God through the Spirit. Ephesians 2:18-22 Just as Jesus is the Light of the world, we are born of Him and descend from the Father of lights (James 1:17). We have been called out of
darkness into His marvelous light (1Peter 2:9) and we are not to let our light be put under a bushel (Matt. 5:14-16). On the Mount of Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appeared as Jesus was transfigured before Peter
and James. Peter wanted to build three natural tabernacles in honor of all three of them. What he didn't realize at the time but would realize later was that the Tabernacle of God was with men and that it
would be a spiritual Temple. What they saw was the glorified Christ (consisting of Jesus as the Head and the children of God as His body). The Church and Christ in their glorified fullest expression! Revelation 21:7 He that
overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. Revelation 21:9-11 And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and
talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will show thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from
God, Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;. Colossians 1:26-27 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from
generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
Additional information concerning this tribe is found in Judges 5:18-20: Zebulun and Naphtali were a people that jeoparded their lives unto the death in the high places of the field. The kings came and fought, then fought
the kings of Canaan in Taanach by the waters of Megiddo; they took no gain of money. They fought from heaven; the stars in their courses fought against Sisera. They were protectors and willing to lay their lives
down because it was their heart to do so.
Gen. 4:24 Flashing (flaming) sword guards the WAY of the Tree of Life. The carbuncle stone speaks MESSAGE (Word).
JESUS:
Jesus, the Son of God,
tabernacled Himself in human flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14). He became the Son of Man and came to give His life a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Note also John 15:13. In the book of John, the 15th
chapter, we learn of abiding in Him and in John 14 He is our mansion, our abiding place.
In John 14, Jesus is our mansion, our abiding place, our abode; and in John 15 He is
the Vine. He is our refuge in Psalm 46:1; 57:1; 62:8.
Revelation 21:3-4 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God
shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.