Coronavirus that holds the world hostage
Fear not the Coronavirus, Our Lord is Jehovah Rapha
Prof. Plammoottil V. Cherian, M. Div., Ph. D. Retired Professor of Microbiology
Soon after the celebration of the New Year 2020 The whole world is gripped by fear by an unknown ultramicroscopic virus nicknamed COVID-19 for Coronavirus infectious disease of 2019. This is a novel version of the same virus that caused a near pandemic situation caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) of 2002-2004 and Middle East respiratory syndrome virus (MERS) of 2012 -2015. Viruses and bacteria have the unique ability to change their genome by incorporating a virulent gene from the environment or undergo small changes (mutation) in its genome. A recently published study suggested that the new coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, had already mutated into one more and one less aggressive strain. Most often, the changes are into more virulent forms, although less virulent can also happen.
We in America had successfully dealt with previous pandemic situations, although the previous ones were as not a serious threat as the Coronavirus. In 1977, Hon Kong had Avian influenza virus (H5N1) that cross infected humans from poultry and 6/18 infected individuals died. Concerned about the possible outbreak of H5N1 becoming a pandemic the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States government increased the pandemic preparedness, should it become a threat to our nation and the world. The United States and WHO also had to deal with pandemics that we have experienced since 2000 (though not in a large scale as the present Coronavirus), such as novel Influenza A virus, avian flu virus and swine flu virus, all of which put extraordinary demands of preparedness on the government, the NIH, CDC, WHO and local community health services. Our preparedness is most important.
As soon as a vaccine or an effective drug is developed bacterial viral pathogens adjust to them or they develop resistance to the drug by developing an array of molecular mechanisms like changing their surface proteins or developing enzymes to remove the reactive group of the drug. Such molecular vagaries are common in microbes. It is impossible to predict when the next pandemic will occur, but each pandemic should teach us lessons to equip ourselves with all precautions, so that situations like the present COVID-19 could be dealt with effectively and minimize the spread and mortality rate. America can and must do it. That is how we successfully dealt with Ebola, SARS, MERS, flesh eating bacteria and the methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MERSA). But we must always be prepared.
However, the present Coronavirus infection is global and no nation is immune, and being a Christian I ask myself why this has happened all over the world like a wildfire, or more in terms of the death caused by the virus, like the angel of death. In my book, “America the Beautiful” Our Vanishing Faith. Why our Hallowed Faith Matters (Covenant Books 2020) I have categorically explained that the United States of America and the United Kingdom are two Christian nations God set in the West as guiding lights to the rest of the world. It was from these two nations primarily that the Gospel messages have spread to the far corners of the world , and God intends these nations to uphold the Christian values. Today we have become secular and we do not know which god to pray, whether it is the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob or one of the many gods of secular culture. Therefore, it is pertinent we as a nation examine ourselves, and take heed of God’s warning to nations whom he loves. God has called all people of earth (all nations) to worship him in truth and spirit. “Give to the LORD the glory due His name; Bring an offering and come into His courts. Oh, worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness! Tremble before Him, all the earth (Psalm 96:8,9). The Lord disciplines the one He loves (Proverbs 3:12; Hebrews 12:6).Therefore, while we are combatting the coronavirus, we must consider it a wakeup call for nations to seek the one true God who heals our nations.
“When I shut up heaven and there is no rain, or command the locusts to devour the land, or send pestilence among My people, if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place. (2 Chronicles 7:13-15)
The end time pestilences prophesied in the Bible are becoming a reality as we have experienced in the recent outbreak of Coronavirus that has spread from China. The highly contagious disease is fast spreading worldwide. As of April 10, 2020 according to data from CDC, WHO and Worldometers.info Coronavirus live updates global cases of Coronavirus pandemic have surpassed 1,619,051 with 96,966 deaths. While China has reduced its daily cases, western countries now struggling to contain the fast spreading virus. Italy now has 143,626 cases, with a death toll of 18,279 (higher than China). Spain records 157,022 (15,843 deaths), USA 468,895 confirmed cases with 16,697 deaths, Germany 118,235 (2,607 deaths) and France 117,749 cases and 12,210 deaths, with new cases and death toll increasing daily. China from where it all started had 8,907 confirmed cases with only 3,336 death according to worldometers.info. No country is immune, and the world is at standstill. Many nations are locked down with state laws asking people to stay home for several weeks. Here in United States, 40 States have the schools closed, the children locked at home, businesses and churches closed, only essential services remain opened and the hospitals and nursing facilities are crowded and we find it difficult to contain the infection and to save lives.
Under these pandemic diseases, God’s children everywhere need to seriously think, why this is happening at this time and generation, and what is the recourse? The verses quoted above (2 Chr. 7:13-15) are God’s Words to Solomon after the Jerusalem Temple was dedicated, the first ever elaborate temple built for the corporate worship of God’s people in truth and spirit. Even before the worship started, God gave them a warning that he will send drought and famine, locusts to devour the vegetation and crop, and severe pestilences if his people and nations do not humble before the Lord and turn from their wicked ways. When I was 7 years old, in Kerala hundreds of thousands of people were dying due to smallpox, the contagious disease that killed nearly 400 million people worldwide. Because it was so contagious, burial of the dead was at night, as I remember.
As the World War II was coming to an end in 1945, there was also severe famine and cholera in the aftermath of the World War.
When the whole world is frightened and locked in, while many are dying and add to the sorrow of their loved ones, one thing we must learn is that God is not angry at a single nation, but the entire present generation of the world and Coronavirus is a wakeup call for all nations and their leaders to seek the Lord in truth and spirit. No nation is immune from the sporadic appearance of this great pestilence that appeared fast, like the angel of death or a wildfire. Our Lord Himself has warned us that the end time signs shall include “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows” (Matt. 24:7,8). In the Bible, pestilence is usually a sign of God’s judgment on nations or people (Deut.32:24; 1 Chr.21:12; 2 Chr,7:13-15; Ezek.7:14-15). The God who loves and protects also sends disaster and pestilence when we are rebellious and disobedient. (Isa.45:7; Ezek.5:16-17; Amos 4:10).
The world unfortunately takes God for granted, but in vain they worship with no substance of personal relationship with Christ, our Savior and Lord. The entire world is moving on the canon of political correctness, hypocrisy, injustice, falsity, neglecting the poor and the broken hearted with no one to offer healing. Nations are competing for nuclear arsenal to show their might and power. Even poor nations are spending billions of dollars for nuclear arsenal when millions are in dire need of food, clean water, shelter, clothing, medicine and livelihood. God sees the selfishness, greed and uncaring attitude of nations and the hypocrisy of silence by the “watchmen” of the nations. But a tiny microscopic virus holds the entire world locked down!
Churches with no denominational difference need to wake up from their status quo and must with powerful prophetic voice lead the nations to seek the Lord. Some churches are using the tithe money for lavish lifestyle, others for court settlement for sex and child abuse, and still others for building mansions. God charged his people with the offense of robbing him. But many are wondering, ‘How have we robbed you?’ “In your tithes and contributions. You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing me, the whole nation of you,” meaning the whole world (Mal. 3:7-9).
There has been reports that many nations in Asia and Africa are battling devastation by locust of the crops and vegetation, adding severe famine. Nations like Pakistan, Somalia and few African nations have declared state of emergency fearing famine. Lord’s hand and the handwriting is on the wall of every nation (Dan.5:1-31). Are we big enough or great enough to battle these ourselves, or are we willing to humble before the Lord? Today all nations are in a state of quarantine. Suspected passengers coming from infected countries of corona infection are quarantined. Does the Bible say anything about quarantine? Oh Yes, God called his faithful to take refuge from the coming judgment. “Come, my people, enter your chambers, and shut your doors behind you; Hide yourself, as it were, for a little moment, until the indignation is past. For behold, the LORD comes out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity. (Isa. 26:20,21).
God warned His people many times in the past. All nations sadly have rejected God and going after many gods of wealth, greed and secular gods and not worshipping the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Therefore, a redeeming God warns all nation in the world at this dangerous time. “If you will return, O Israel,” says the LORD, “Return to Me; And if you will put away your abominations out of My sight, then you shall not be moved. And you shall swear, ‘The LORD lives,’ In truth, in judgment, and in righteousness; the nations shall bless themselves in Him, and in Him they shall glory” (Jer. 4:1-2).
If we have forgotten history, God healed a whole nation when they were bitten by venous serpent in the wilderness, more dangerous than Coronavirus. Moses made a bronze serpent and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze serpent they were healed and lived (Num.21:9).That serpent was reminiscent of Christ the crucified. Yes, we are all in sorrow and distress. It is the same God who also asks, “Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then is there no healing for the wound of my people?” (Jer.8:22). Jesus Christ is the balm of Gilead. Therefore, all nations rise and call on the name of the Lord and commit us to serve him in truth and spirit. God will forgive the nations and individuals, because he is our Ebenezer, the LORD who helped us hitherto. Listen to God’s promise, “I am the Lord who heals you” (Exod.15:26). Praise God we have Jehovah Rapha, “The Lord who heals.”
Our God is a forgiving and healing God. Coronavirus epidemic is not a judgement by God on any nations, but a wakeup call, a warning signal for all nations, particularly nations founded on faith to wake up and rule with justice roll like a river and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.
God warned His people many times in the past. All nations sadly have rejected God and going after many gods of wealth, greed and secular gods and not worshipping the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Therefore, a redeeming God warns all nation in the world at this dangerous time. “If you will return, O Israel,” says the LORD, “Return to Me; And if you will put away your abominations out of My sight, then you shall not be moved. And you shall swear, ‘The LORD lives,’ In truth, in judgment, and in righteousness; the nations shall bless themselves in Him, and in Him they shall glory” (Jer. 4:1-2).
Dr. Cherian
is a retired professor who has done fifty years of research and teaching in Medical schools, colleges and universities in the United States. He is a scientist who with his scientific expertise and theological understanding proved that evolution is a hoax and that the Universe, Life and the multitude of species are created by God. He recently published four books by Covenant Books, an International Publisher. He is an invited Speaker on, Science, Religion, and the Eternal Gospel of God.The Kingdom of Heaven: Character and Inestimable Value
Prof. Plammoottil Cherian, M. Div., Ph. D., 1969 Wright Blvd., Buffalo Grove, Illinois 60089, U.S. A. [Former Associate Secretary of the Diocese of North America & Europe] Published in July 2016, FOCUS.Introduction
The first Biblical occurrence of the word “kingdom” is in reference to the called out people, (chosen people if I may) as they were waiting to enter the Promised Land. When Israelites were in the valley of Mount Sinai, the Mosaic Covenant given to them stated “Now therefore, if you will obey my voice and keep my covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to me, above all people; for all the earth is Mine. And you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (Exod. 19:5,6). However, the expression “The Kingdom of Heaven” is a unique theme in the New Testament which appears to have been built from the Old Testament references of the everlasting kingdom God will establish (Exod. 19:6; Ps. 145:11-13; Dan. 2:44: Zech.14:9). Daniel in interpreting the dream of Nebuchadnezzar prophesied that “And in the days of these kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and the kingdom shall not be left to other people; it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever” (Dan. 2:44). The entire Biblical theme is built on the concept of the everlasting Kingdom of God.
From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, the character, significance and values of the Kingdom have been forcefully advanced. The disciples and the general populace who embraced the theme of Jesus, however misinterpreted it strictly to be an exclusive Jewish political kingdom free from the Gentiles and the Roman subjugation. John the Baptist used the phrase for the first time as he preached in the wilderness of Judea saying “Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” While Mathew uses the phrase, “The kingdom of God” (Matt. 12:28; 19:24; 21:21, 31, 43), Jesus used both the expressions “the kingdom of heaven” and “the kingdom of God” somewhat interchangeably (Matt. 4:17; 19:23, 24; Mark 10:23).
Moreover, the Gospel message of "entering the Kingdom of God" is linked with salvation and redemption (Luke 18:25-26; Matt. 19:24-25; Mark 10:23, 26). For example, When Jesus describes how hard it is for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God, the disciples reacted "who then can be saved?" In answer to this question Jesus explained that the Kingdom is linked with 'eternal life' (Luke 18:30; Matt. 25:29; Mark 10:30). Jesus further taught that kingdom of heaven is “redemption” or for those who are redeemed (Luke 21: 29-31). Hence the Gospels clearly link salvation, redemption and eternal life with the Kingdom of heaven in a futuristic sense. In its true meaning, the “kingdom of Heaven” refers to a theocentric kingdom on earth and in heaven (in a futuristic eternal sense). The Kingdom of heaven is where the rule of God prevails and God’s blessings avail to obedient people. (Matt. 28: 19,20; Mark 16:15). In order to gain some knowledge of the kingdom of God we must analyze its character, nature, values and significance in relation to eternity from the entire Scriptures.
The Kingdom of God Now and in Future
The present experience of, and the future coming of the kingdom of God (heaven) was the central message of Jesus. When Jesus taught his followers to pray, the heart of the petition was “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt. 6:10), reminding us to do everything as it would be in the heavenly realms. The main concept is that, on earth we practice the principles of God’s kingdom, allowing God to guide us, discharging our duties on earth as subjects of the kingdom of God. It is for this purpose that God came down to us but most of the world did not receive Him, or rather rejected Him (John 1:11). However, the scriptures also reveals that one day, "The LORD will be king over all the earth; in that day the LORD will be the only one, and His name the only one." (Zech. 14:9; Dan. 2:44).
Jesus taught the truth of the kingdom of God and how we might be partakers of it through parables. Just before His crucifixion Jesus assured his disciples that they will share the joy, happiness and fellowship of the Kingdom with Him in the future (Luke 22:22-30). Finally Jesus assured all believers that He would return in glory to bring the blessedness of the Kingdom for whom it shall be prepared (Matt. 25:31-34). While Jesus’ teaching emphasizes that all earthly kingdoms must try to govern by the values of the kingdom at the present age, the kingdom of God is to be fully realized in the future, designated for those who are redeemed (John 3:5-7). Kingdom of God should be practiced as a prologue to the divine Government Jesus would establish upon his return. The phrase Kingdom of God appears 4 time in Matthew, 14 times in Mark, 32 times in Luke; twice in John, 6 times in Acts; 8 time in Paul’s Epistles, and once in Revelation (12:10).
Character of the Kingdom
The character and the values of the Kingdom of God are the opposite of those that dominate the world kingdoms. This is well illustrated in the beatitudes at the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. Ch.5-7). Like the Ten Commandments, though each of the eight beatitudes stands distinct, they can be easily grouped into two sets of four. The first four (poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek and those hungry for righteousness, (Matt. 5:3-6) specifically deal with one’s relationship with God. The first sets the stage for the second (those who are merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers and persecuted for righteousness sake, (Matt. 5: 7-12) which has more to do with one’s relationship with another. From these it is evident that the essential characters required for the kingdom of God are: Humility; Righteousness; Purity of heart; and Peace loving. When Jesus started His ministry on earth the conditions were quite different and, therefore both John the Baptist and Jesus called with a message, “Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Mt. 3:2; 4:17) that signaled an urgency. It challenged the status quo of the religious leaders implying that changes were needed in their relationship with God, their teaching of the Word of God, their administration of the civil government, in their personal behavior, and in their relationship with others. It certainly aroused interest in many who followed him, but jealousy and hatred by those who ruled.
The Kingdom of God is here; it is within you (Luke 17:20-21). For true believers, the Kingdom of God is love of Christ burning within our hearts, ready to be shared with others around us, our family, church, the community, the poor, needy, the broken hearted, the sick and loving our enemies. The Kingdom of God is not something in the future only as Jesus taught us, not looking for it here and there. “The kingdom of God does not come with observations; nor will they say, ‘See here !’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed the kingdom of God is within you’” (Luke 17:20-21NKJV). The Greek word entos carries much force in the phrase “in the midst” that Jesus used here. Kingdom of God cannot not be found in the self-righteous, Christ-rejecting people and generation as was the case with the self-righteous Pharisees who could not see the spiritual meaning of the kingdom, that is to be found in our hearts. Our Lord’s whole answer designedly enigmatic to the Pharisees has a dispensational meaning. The kingdom in its outward form, as covenanted to David (2 Sam. 7:16) and described by the prophets (Zech. 12:8) had been rejected by the Jews, so that during the present age it would not be seen with “observations,” meaning outward show, but in the hearts of men (Luke 19:11,12; Acts 1:6-8; Rom. 14:17). Surprisingly, the kingdom was actually “in the midst” of the Pharisees, in the person of Jesus Christ, his teachings, the eternal Gospel, and the disciples. Now, ultimately, the kingdom of heaven will come visibly to earth at the Lord’s second coming. As a proof Jesus told them, “For as the lightening that flashes out of one part under heaven, shines to the other part under heaven, so also the Son of Man will be in His day” (Luke 17:24).
ust after explaining the beatitudes, Lord Jesus first reaffirms that the Mosaic Law of the Old Testament (OT) theocratic rule as the governing code of God’s kingdom on earth. Secondly, Christ explains that our attitude to OT Law will determine our place in the kingdom of heaven. (Matt. 5:19). Jesus emphasizes that He came to fulfill the law. “Do not think that I came to destroy, the Law or the prophets. “I did not come to destroy but to fulfill” (Matt. 5:17). This is where some independent denominations or New Age churches fail by misinterpreting that the old laws have been removed and Christ enacted a new law of independence from the old. Nowhere in the New Testament have we found that the Mosaic Law has been replaced. In the Sermon on the Mount, first Jesus teaches that the laws of the kingdom of heaven deals with the thoughts and motives as well as overt acts (Matt. 5: 27, 28; 6:1-6). Secondly, Christ sets forth the perfect standard of righteousness demanded by the law (Matt. 5:48), and that He is the righteousness of God through whom we attain redemption, as Paul vividly explained (Rom.3:22, 6:14; 2 Cor. 5:21). Thus both the OT laws and all of Christs’ teachings are a part of the Holy Scriptures which is inspired by God, and therefore profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness (2 Tim. 3:16) for the redeemed of all Ages. As Christ is the fulfillment of the law, we now abide by the teachings of Jesus but the divine design of the law God established will abide forever as affirmed in the Scriptures, “not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished” (Matt. 5:17,18). Everything will be accomplished when Christ returns, and hence the Law remains effective.
Nature of the Kingdom
A Living and Holy Kingdom.
God’s presence in the person of Jesus Christ being with us is the nature of the kingdom of heaven. The nearness of the kingdom of God is presented to the world through the teachings of Jesus and its application in our lives. Abiding in Jesus assures joy and happiness in spite of all the turmoil the worldly kingdom present us. This is what Jesus says, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). The whole of animate and inanimate objects in the universe are the creation of God, but humanity is uniquely molded by the hands of God, brought to life with His breath while all the plant and animal species were spoken into existence. We are to form a living and holy kingdom, creating a heavenly realm on earth. “Be holy as I am holy” (Lev. 11:44l 1 Pet. 1:16).
Jesus illustrated the living nature of the kingdom of God through parables of trees sprouted from seeds, growing, flourishing and yielding plentiful fruits. Examples are the parable of the sower, the parable of wheat, and the parable of the mustard seed (Matt. 13:1-9; 13:24-30; 13:31-32). All the seven parables in Matthew 13 illustrate the kingdom of heaven with the sowing of the Gospel in the world during the present age which began with our Lord’s personal ministry and will end with the harvest. It is interesting to note that tares also grow with the wheat and only one-fourth takes permanent root and be fruitful. Lord himself explains this (Matt. 13: 18-23). The seeds of the kingdom of God (Gospel) are planted into the garden of our hearts, and like any other seed they should grow, multiply and be fruitful. This is the essence of what Jesus told us that the kingdom of God is within us. “For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:21). Apostle Peter clearly reminded us this “For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God” (1 Peter 1:23). Yes, the kingdom of God is vibrant and full of abundant life, and so should our life, if we are to be part of that kingdom.
A Righteous kingdom.
Throughout the Bible righteousness is a main theme of the kingdom of God. Taken together every aspect of the kingdom, Apostle Paul explains that the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but the experience of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Rom. 14:17). The author of Hebrews says that Christ will rule over the kingdom of God with the scepter of righteousness on the throne which shall be forever and ever. (Heb. 1:8). Those of us who are baptized to become members of the kingdom must grow daily in the righteousness of God that comes through faith in Jesus Christ (Rom. 3:21-22). While living on earth we must conduct ourselves cloaked in the garment of salvation arrayed in the robe of righteousness. Isaiah compares the robe of righteousness as the ornaments of the bridegroom and the jewels of the bride on their wedding day (Isa. 61:10). We must have Jesus’ righteousness as our own because “God made Him who had no sin, sin for us so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Cor. 5:21). Christians are not immune from the hatred, trials, tribulations, temptations and persecutions of the real world, but we must overcome these. “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 5:10). Certainly, the kingdom of God belongs to the righteous as it is evident that the immoral and unrighteous will have no part in the kingdom of God (1 Cor.6:9-10; Rev. 22:15).
A Kingdom of Power and Eternal Light
Those who seek God’s kingdom are meek and powerless according to world standards as they are required to put down their swords (John 18:36). But they carry the sword of the Spirit, the word of God, more powerful than any other weapon. It is with the power of the Spirit that Jesus healed all kinds of sickness and diseases. Jesus equipped his disciples with the same power. While sending them away, Jesus told his disciples “Whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you. And heal the sick there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you” (Luke 10: 8-9). Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you” (Luke 10:17-19). Contrary to the kingdoms of the world, the future kingdom of heaven will have no sorrow, tears, worries, sickness, hunger, thirst, death and no darkness or night (Rev. 21:1-5). The kingdom of heaven does not need the sun or the moon to shine, for the glory of God gives light, and the Lamb is its lamp (Rev. 21:23; 22:5). Remember, while on earth Jesus said, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12) and His eternal light shines throughout this age and the age to come. Kingdom of God is mighty and powerful to win over the world by the Spirit. When we are troubled on all fronts while on earth, remember the words of Jesus, “Be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
A Kingdom of Peace and Healing.
Revelation 21 and 22 describe the new heaven, new earth, New Jerusalem and the new paradise with its crystal clear river, its streets and the tree of life. The twelve gates of the city, each of which is adorned with a distinct pearl and its streets are inlaid with pure gold radiant as a crystal. John’s final vision was, “A river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit, every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations” (Rev. 22:1,2). Ezekiel had a very similar vision nearly seven centuries earlier (Ezek. 47:12). I have pondered over this, and researched much to find an answer to why the kingdom of God will have flourishing trees with leaves that have healing power. Healing what? It cannot be that there is some kind of sickness foreseen in the Kingdom of God. We see the tree of life first in Genesis (2:9; 3:23) and then in Revelation (2:7; 22:14). All the nations of the earth were in turmoil, quarrelsome, encroaching upon others, fighting, ethnic clashes, looting and destroying each other with no peace for themselves. Symbolically, as Ezekiel who himself was a captive in Babylon (2 Ki. 24: 11-16) foresaw what Christ would achieve. Christ reveals that those redeemed of the different ethnic and national background, the Gentiles and the Jews, all were grafted into the tree of life, permanently healed, like the lamb and the lions in the same pen.
Metaphorically, the tree of life is Lord Jesus who was lifted upon the tree (John 12:32) by whose stripes we are healed and the leaves represents the power of salvation. The leaves of trees on earth by contrast will fall to the ground, but the leaves of the tree of life are ever flourishing with its power of healing, bearing fruit for nutritious food. “I am the bread of life,” (John 6:35) Jesus declared, while on earth. When the Jews wandered in the desert for forty years, they were sustained by the “bread of heaven” rained down (Exod. 16:4). However all who ate the manna in the wilderness were dead. But Christ is the bread that came down from heaven and those who fed on Him and now redeemed, allegorically are in the kingdom of heaven where there is no hunger or thirst, represented by the tree of life bearing fruit, leaves signifying permanent healing, and sparking crystal clear water quenching thirst forever. The presence of Christ not only nourishes us with abundance of sweet fruit but also full of healing power and water from the river of life. What an amazing metaphor, indeed?
Conclusion
The kingdom of God is for all people of all time of all nations who willingly share in the faith of Abraham, having developed the qualities of humility, purity of heart, righteousness, and peace making through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Most of us live very religiously claiming to share in the character and values of the kingdom like Nicodemus. However, the words of Jesus to Nicodemus who meticulously practiced all the laws as taught by Pharisees is important here. “Verily, verily I say to you, except a man be born again he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). The kingdom of God is so treasured, so priceless, that it is worth abandoning all to attain it. Many who claim to be Christians have never found the gates of the kingdom because either they haven’t searched with all their hearts or searching at the wrong place. “You will seek me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart” (Jer. 29:13). Whether we have found it by chance or after thorough searching everywhere to find the spiritual truth of the pearly kingdom, the fact remains that we discovered it and we pursue it to be within its walls, and never to lose it. In our search for the kingdom of God, let us not be deprived of eternity like the rich young ruler (Mark 10: 17-22).
We must truly see the inestimable value of the kingdom of God, forget everything earthly and run the race fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God? (Heb. 12:2). If we run the race truly seeking the kingdom of God, we the little flock need not fear, for it is our Father’s good pleasure to give us the kingdom (Luke 12:32). May our prayer always be, “Thy Kingdom Come”! Amen!
From Aaronic to Melchizedekian Priesthood
Priesthood is a doctrine of the Old Testament as well of the New Testament. However, priesthood developed from the Levitical Laws of Aaronic order and transformed to the priesthood of all believers with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is a New Testament doctrine that every individual has direct access to God and each individual shares the responsibility of assuring his/her salvation through personal relationship with the Redeemer Saviour, and ministering to the others of the community of believers. The term Levitical applies to the Israelite Tribe of Levi, third son of patriarch Jacob, the tribe to which Moses and Aaron belong. Aaronic male descendants were set apart for the priestly duties (Exod. 28:1-4), the rest of the Levities were designated Aaron’s assistants to help him in the work of the tabernacle and to take care of its furnishings (Num. 3:5–10).[1]
While many people consider Aaron as the first priest of the Old Testament, remarkably the Bible teaches that Abraham, the Father of faith was met and blessed by an unknown High Priest of the Most high God, just after a righteous action performed by Abraham as described in Genesis chapter 14 as well as in Hebrews (7:1-3). Thus, contrary to the understanding of most theologians about the lineage of priesthood, a mysterious Melchizedek is the earliest priesthood mentioned in the Bible who is considered the High Priest of God, forever. The true identity of this Melchizedek is described with ample evidence in the recent book “Promised Land: Whose Land, Whose Promise, Who shall Inherit.”[2] While we analyze the progression of priesthood of all believers, however, we shall begin with Aaron in the biological lineage of earthly priesthood.
Levitical Priesthood Inaugurated with Aaron
Three months after Lord led the children of Israel out of Egypt, he brought them to Mt. Sinai (Ex.19:1), where Moses received the Laws and Ten Commandments for humanity. Moses anointed and consecrated Aaron and his sons to the priesthood and arrayed them in the robes of office (Lev. 8; cf. Ex. 28-29). He also related to them God's detailed instructions for performing their duties while the rest of the Israelites listened (Lev. 1-7, 11-27). Priests were also commissioned to bless the people (Num. 6:22-27). After Aaron completed the altar offerings for the first time with Moses, they came out and “blessed the people: and the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people (Lev.9:23). Some of the prominent names of Bible such as Eli, Ezra, Zechariah, father of John the Baptist were Levites.
Historically, there is a truth to be learned of the Levite Tribe which is the blessing given to Levi by Jacob from his deathbed in Egypt. When Jacob blessed his sons Simeon, and Levi, his words were, “Simeon and Levi “are brother, instruments of cruelty are in their dwelling place. Let not my soul enter their council, let not my honor be united their assembly; for in their angry they slew a man, and in their self-will, they hamstrung an ox. Cursed be their anger, for it is fierce, and their wrath, for it is cruel. I will divide them in Jacob and scatter them in Israel” (Genesis 49:5-7). Jacob’s prophecy of blessing on his son Levi is a curse because of their unrighteous anger and wrath, but God changed it into a blessing. The tribe of Levi were not allotted a portion of the land after the conquest of Canaan, but God sanctified them to be the priest of Israel. Levi’s inheritance was far superior to the land inherited by the other tribes, and their inheritance was God himself (Num.18:8-14). Thus, they had enormous privilege of serving God, and they were given from the abundance of the other tribes, through their tithes (Num.18:8-14).
The work of the Levitical priests included the morning and evening sacrifices offered on behalf of the community of Israel (Ex. 29:38–44), tending the vessels of the Holy Place (lampstand, altar of incense and bread of the Presence, Ex. 27:20–21, 30:7,8; Lev. 24:5–9), teaching the Law and administering justice under the Law (Deut. 17:8). The most holy sacrifice was to be performed only once a year on what is known in Hebrew as Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, the tenth day of the seventh month of Tishri (September–October, Lev. 23:26–32). It was to atone for all the sins of the entire Israelite community (humanity, Lev. 16:34). One of the priests was specially designated as the high priest, just as the present-day presiding bishop of the Western churches or the Metropolitan of churches in the Eastern tradition.
Aaronic Priesthood Vs Melchizedekian Priesthood
The Levitical priesthood was an inseparable part of the Mosaic Law and the priesthood is inseparable from the laws as priests were appointed to perform the sacrifices and the administration of the Law. Nonetheless, the Levitical priesthood was never intended to be permanent. Animal sacrifice was a common practice in the Ancient Near East, but its meaning within the Old Testament is very different from the volatile, angry gods of Israel’s neighbors. But it was a custom as we see that first animal sacrifice was offered by Abel (Genesis 4:3,4), and later Noah sacrificed animals after the flood (Genesis 8:20:21), which were centuries before the Sinai Laws. God instituted animal sacrifices, a custom that they were familiar with to teach humanity that by cutting an animal, watching its blood (that is, its life) gushing out was a visceral symbol of the devastating consequence of sins. Annual sacrifices were only a reminder of sins, because it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to remove sins. Nevertheless, sin must be atoned, for which God descended and became man as prophesied by Isaiah. Therefore, when Christ came into this world, he said, “Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, but a body You prepared for me” (Hebrews 10:5). Then I said, Behold, I have come, in the scrolls of the book, it is written of me, to do your will O God.” (Hebrews 10:7, cf. Psalm 40:7).
Christ, Our High Priest Revealed in Melchizedek
When Abraham returned from the arduous fight in Canaan described in Genesis 14, Melchizedek, an unknown King abruptly received and offered “bread and wine” to refresh his body and soul. From the description we understand that: (1) Melchizedek was the priest of the most high God as well as the King of Salem, who blessed Abraham. (2) He was not mentioned in any of the nine Canaanite kings engaged in war. In Jewish theology, the most high God is El-Elyon above any other gods. (3) Melchizedek appeared as the high priest of God and blessed Abram. Melchizedek attests that Abraham is favored by God (Abram of God most high). (4) He reveals God is the possessor of heaven and earth and that Abraham belongs to God. (5) He blessed (gave thanks to) God. (6) He acknowledges the fact that the living God is the one who delivered the enemies to Abraham. (7) Abraham voluntarily offered a tenth of all what he recovered to Melchizedek, the act of tithing to the Lord for the first time in the Scriptures (Gen. 14:17–20).
Who is Melchizedek?
The questions we must answer are, which Canaanite king could have been known to Yahweh other than the pantheon of idol Canaanite gods? Would a living God ever appoint idol gods or a Canaanite idol worshipper as his substitute? Is there any historical record of a Canaanite king named Melchizedek ever ruled the city Salem? Jewish records and Canaanite history do not indicate such a king in history. Why did he greet Abraham on his return after defeating the aggressors when the city of Salem and Melchizedek were not attacked or even involved in the incident? Why did he choose to offer bread and wine instead of bread and milk or honey or cakes made of fig and raisins? Why did Abraham give a tenth to an unknown Melchizedek only, when there were five other kings for whom he fought for? Why none of the kings he freed did not receive him or offer a word of thanks, except king of Sodom, who sardonically offered some of the spoils that belonged to him, which Abraham graciously rejected?
Melchizedek was neither a Canaanite king nor a human being can be proved from the following facts: (1) Abraham would not accept any gift from king of Sodom who epitomized wickedness (Gen. 14:22–23). (2) Melchizedek typifies Christ, and it is significant to note that he offered Abraham the elements of the memorial of Christ, bread and wine, who fought against injustice and immorality of a gang of cruel rulers with his righteous attitude. (3) The scriptural references to Christ, the ultimate Seed of Abraham as “according to the order Melchizedek,” suggest the royal, superior, and everlasting authority of Christ’s high priesthood over the Aaronic human priesthood that was faulty, transitory, and mortal (Ps. 110:4; Heb. 5:5, 6). The fact that Melchizedek was a priest serving the most high God and a priest forever indicates God’s presence was accessible in Salem (Jerusalem, the City of Peace) before the Jewish nation was organized and the regular Aaronic priesthood began. Why would the eternal everlasting righteous God seek a model and a pattern of an earthly Canaanite king when there is no righteous one among men? (Ps. 14:1–3, 53:1–3; Rom. 3:10–12). No human being can be a model for the high priest of the most high God. Melchizedek, the king of Salem who received Abraham, was Christ in apparition, who is the high priest of God, far better than any priest in the Aaronic descent or of other lineage. The priest of the most high God is Christ himself who appeared to Abraham as Melchizedek, the King of Righteousness.
Christ typifies God’s High Priest in the order of Melchizedek because: (1) Melchizedek appeared to Abraham as a human being (man) foretelling Abraham about his incarnation later in history. (2) He was not man ordained (Ps. 110:4; Heb. 7:4, 1 Tim. 2:5). (2) He was a king-priest (Gen. 14:18, Zech. 6:12–13); (3) Melchizedek’s name means “my king is righteous” and he appeared as king of Salem (Isa. 11:5–9). (4) Melchizedek had no recorded beginning of days or end of life (Jn. 1:1, Rom. 6:9, Heb. 7:23–25). Can a human being ever be designated without beginning or end? While there may be comparison between Christ and a human king, the greater contrast between the high priesthood of Melchizedek and Aaron is only as to person, in the order of appointment, and duration of kingship and priesthood. Christ is King and Priest forever.
Christ, the High Priest and Kingdom of Priests
However, we should not misinterpret the priesthood of all believers as some fundamentalist denominations interpret and appoint themselves as pastors and bishops. They claim that priesthood was abolished forever, which is wrong theology and against New Testament teaching. It is Christ who appointed Apostles and gave some apostleship, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers (Eph.4:11). The book of Hebrews or the New Testament does not speak of abolition the priesthood, but gives preeminence to Jesus Himself, yet calls us to do good and to communicate,” sacrifices of good deeds (13:15,16). Paul calls the Romans to present their bodies “a living sacrifice” (Rom. 12:1) and Peter calls Christians “a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices” (1 Pet. 2:5). What is intended by such statements is that the Church by its corporate relationship to Christ, by its being “in Christ,” is “a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” It does not mean priesthood is abolished forever. The individual member shares in Christ’s prerogative as high priest. There must be orderly priesthood for administration, to perform sacraments, and to give directives and guidance so that we become living sacrifices by word and deed, bringing others to the throne of grace.
Melchizedek was not a king of the Levitical Order and not of the genealogy and heredity of Aaron. Christ’s genes are of mixed pool from Rahab the Canaanite woman, Ruth a Moabite woman, and Judah who married a Canaanite woman, daughter of Shua from whom the Davidic line of lineage comes to Jesus (Genesis 38:2). Christ’s multiethnic genes and the Holy Spirit by whom he was conceived by Virgin Mary indicate that the blood of Christ with the human genes is sanctified by the Holy Spirit, and thus unique for the atonement of all humanity. Christ is the Mediator, Redeemer and Saviour, and he made believers heirs and coheirs in the kingdom of God. Christ fulfilled the promise God made to Israel as they were freed and brought to Sinai. “Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (Exod.19:5,6). Thank God, we are priests in the kingdom of God through, Jesus Christ, our High Priest to whom we are brothers. Remember the claim of Christ, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, I am the first High Priest and the last High Priest of God forever. Melchizedek, an apparition of Christ appeared to Abraham, to develop a faith community, the Church, the Bride of Christ, whom he shall present to GOD. [1] Therefore, when the Bible speaks of the “Levitical priesthood,” it is referring to the narrower lineage of Aaron and his sons within the tribe of Levi, the rest of the Levities being designated as his assistants. [2] Cherian, Plammoottil V. (2019). Promised Land. Whose Land, Whose Promise and Who Shall Inherit. Pp.669. Covenant Books. South Carolina, USA. Chapter 22 of the book pp. 297-311 describes who Melchizedek is and his priesthood.
A Levitical High Priest
Melchizedek receiving Abram (Abraham) after the rescue mission and offering him “bread and wine” (Genesis 14: 1-24), the element of righteousness, which Jesus claimed that he had seen Abraham, and Abraham rejoiced to see him (John 8: 56-58).
Christ in his three-fold offices as Prophet (Deuteronomy 18:14-22), Priest( Psalm 110:1-4) and King (Psalm 2).