The Bible
Its Significance and Importance
What has become known as the “Christian Bible” tells us that the author of these 66 books that make up our Bible is the Creator of heaven and earth and all that is within them. No other religion dares make that statement. Other books attempt to rival the Bible but lack the integrity of purpose. It is important that we have a broad perspective of the basic teachings of our “Bible” for some teachings assumed to be in the Bible are not found there, but are pagan in origin, with concepts from the pagan mind of carnal men.
Different Religions Have Different Writings
Other religions came on the scene later than our “Christian Bible.” Writings of the Old Testament predate all other religious writings of the world. The first five books of the Bible known as the Torah, written by Moses, date back to the 15th and 16th centuries before our Common Era (B.C.E.). The Hindu writings of the Rig-Veda (a collection of hymns) were completed about 900 B.C.E. and do not claim divine inspiration.
The Buddhist Canon of the Three Baskets dates back to the fifth century B.C.E. The angel Gabriel is claimed to have received The Koran (Quran) in the seventh century C.E. (Common Era), some seven hundred years after the Messiah. The Book of Mormon is said to have been given to Joseph Smith by the angel Moroni relatively recently, in the 19th century.
The religious books just mentioned are a spiritual guide for a great number of people. Those writings which claim to be divinely inspired should be a religious guide for its adherents and not contradict our Bible which is the original of religious writings.
Other religions came on the scene later than our “Christian Bible.” Writings of the Old Testament predate all other religious writings of the world. The first five books of the Bible known as the Torah, written by Moses, date back to the 15th and 16th centuries before our Common Era (B.C.E.). The Hindu writings of the Rig-Veda (a collection of hymns) were completed about 900 B.C.E. and do not claim divine inspiration.
The Buddhist Canon of the Three Baskets dates back to the fifth century B.C.E. The angel Gabriel is claimed to have received The Koran (Quran) in the seventh century C.E. (Common Era), some seven hundred years after the Messiah. The Book of Mormon is said to have been given to Joseph Smith by the angel Moroni relatively recently, in the 19th century.
The religious books just mentioned are a spiritual guide for a great number of people. Those writings which claim to be divinely inspired should be a religious guide for its adherents and not contradict our Bible which is the original of religious writings.
Major Religious Movements
A majority of today’s religionists would probably agree with us that the world’s religions can be divided into seven major movements. The largest of these is Christianity, which includes both the Roman and Greek Orthodox and the various groups that make up Protestantism of today’s churchianity. All of these acknowledge the inclusion of the Old Testament in varying degrees as a basis of their faith. The Jews accept the Old Testament from Genesis to Malachi, but reject the New Testament and Yahshua as the promised Messiah.
Islam (also known as Muslim or Mohammadism) is from the Middle East, and continues its spread in Europe and America as well as parts of the Orient. It is second only to Christianity and is the fastest growing religion in the world. The Hebrew Old Testament is generally accepted along with their Koran (Quran) from Muhammad their prophet. Islam is being successfully taught in our prison systems.
Four widely recognized religious groups sprang out of the orient and are not easily understood by those outside the culture of Asian religions. Most of Asia’s living religions took form within a single century. Between 660 and 550 B.C.E. the world witnessed the birth of Confucius and the development of Taoism in China; the birth of Gautama the Buddha and Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, and the appearance of Japan’s legendary emperor, which most scholars now regard as marking the rise of the Shinto religion.
The Hindu religion is found mainly in India and has many deities. Buddhism grew out of Hinduism and has no deities. Confucianism, along with Taoism, is popular in China .
In pursuing our goal to teach the true doctrines of the Bible, we will point out from time to time doctrines that are not taught in Yahweh’s Scriptures. For example, many people allege that humans have an immortal soul, which at death moves on to another realm such as heaven, hell, or purgatory or the “happy hunting ground” of the hereafter. Some believe the soul is reincarnated in another life of some kind. However, the Bible does not teach that we have an immortal soul, but the Bible teaches the opposite, that we seek immortality, Romans 2:7, and the dead soul is lifeless until resurrected by Yahweh. More on this later.
A majority of today’s religionists would probably agree with us that the world’s religions can be divided into seven major movements. The largest of these is Christianity, which includes both the Roman and Greek Orthodox and the various groups that make up Protestantism of today’s churchianity. All of these acknowledge the inclusion of the Old Testament in varying degrees as a basis of their faith. The Jews accept the Old Testament from Genesis to Malachi, but reject the New Testament and Yahshua as the promised Messiah.
Islam (also known as Muslim or Mohammadism) is from the Middle East, and continues its spread in Europe and America as well as parts of the Orient. It is second only to Christianity and is the fastest growing religion in the world. The Hebrew Old Testament is generally accepted along with their Koran (Quran) from Muhammad their prophet. Islam is being successfully taught in our prison systems.
Four widely recognized religious groups sprang out of the orient and are not easily understood by those outside the culture of Asian religions. Most of Asia’s living religions took form within a single century. Between 660 and 550 B.C.E. the world witnessed the birth of Confucius and the development of Taoism in China; the birth of Gautama the Buddha and Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, and the appearance of Japan’s legendary emperor, which most scholars now regard as marking the rise of the Shinto religion.
The Hindu religion is found mainly in India and has many deities. Buddhism grew out of Hinduism and has no deities. Confucianism, along with Taoism, is popular in China .
In pursuing our goal to teach the true doctrines of the Bible, we will point out from time to time doctrines that are not taught in Yahweh’s Scriptures. For example, many people allege that humans have an immortal soul, which at death moves on to another realm such as heaven, hell, or purgatory or the “happy hunting ground” of the hereafter. Some believe the soul is reincarnated in another life of some kind. However, the Bible does not teach that we have an immortal soul, but the Bible teaches the opposite, that we seek immortality, Romans 2:7, and the dead soul is lifeless until resurrected by Yahweh. More on this later.
What About Islam?
Along with Judaism and Christianity, Islam is one of the three monotheistic religions that emerged from the Middle East and spread throughout the world. It began in what is now Saudi Arabia when a businessman named Muhammad received what he believed were divine revelations, which were hand written. He, himself, was illiterate. Others memorized and wrote and recorded what he said. Muhammad died in 632 C.E. It is necessary that we have a basic lesson on Islam (Muslim) so we have a solid background of understanding the differences with our Bible. The Islamic Koran (Quran) came into being almost 700 years after Yahshua walked this earth.
Islam, an Arabic word meaning “submission,” drew on the traditions of Judaism and Christianity. Muslims accept some Old Testament books, including the account of Moses receiving the Ten Commandments. Islam reveres many of the prophets, especially Abraham. They believe Yahshua was a holy prophet, but reject Him as being the very Son of Yahweh. Allah is the Arabic name for the deity of Islam. Allah is a name said to stem from the name of the pagan moon deity from antiquity.
Making up the two great religions on earth, the faithful of each of these two religions, Christianity and Islam, contend they follow the teachings of their respective books. A decided gap exists between the Koran (Quran) and the teachings of the Bible. Some teachers of the Koran will admit they are familiar with the Old Testament, but few seem to draw any lessons from it, relying primarily on their Koran. The following differences between the Islamic Allah and Yahweh is taken from “Bible Studies” by Richard Nickels:
Along with Judaism and Christianity, Islam is one of the three monotheistic religions that emerged from the Middle East and spread throughout the world. It began in what is now Saudi Arabia when a businessman named Muhammad received what he believed were divine revelations, which were hand written. He, himself, was illiterate. Others memorized and wrote and recorded what he said. Muhammad died in 632 C.E. It is necessary that we have a basic lesson on Islam (Muslim) so we have a solid background of understanding the differences with our Bible. The Islamic Koran (Quran) came into being almost 700 years after Yahshua walked this earth.
Islam, an Arabic word meaning “submission,” drew on the traditions of Judaism and Christianity. Muslims accept some Old Testament books, including the account of Moses receiving the Ten Commandments. Islam reveres many of the prophets, especially Abraham. They believe Yahshua was a holy prophet, but reject Him as being the very Son of Yahweh. Allah is the Arabic name for the deity of Islam. Allah is a name said to stem from the name of the pagan moon deity from antiquity.
Making up the two great religions on earth, the faithful of each of these two religions, Christianity and Islam, contend they follow the teachings of their respective books. A decided gap exists between the Koran (Quran) and the teachings of the Bible. Some teachers of the Koran will admit they are familiar with the Old Testament, but few seem to draw any lessons from it, relying primarily on their Koran. The following differences between the Islamic Allah and Yahweh is taken from “Bible Studies” by Richard Nickels:
Yahweh and Allah
As reported in the January/February 2000 issue of Battle Cry, a comparison of Allah and Yahweh based on their presentation from the Koran and Bible respectively, is a study of opposites.
Unknowable: Allah is so transcendent, so exalted, that no man can personally know Allah. Yahweh, however, sent His Son Yahshua Messiah into the world so the people would know Yahweh personally,
And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true Elohim, and Yahshua Messiah, whom thou hast sent, John 17:3.
Those who have seen the Son have seen the Father,
Yahshua saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? (John 14:9)
Nonpersonal: Allah is not considered a person; this would lower him to the level of humankind. However, Elohim of the Bible is spoken of as a person with intellect, emotions and a will.
Nonspirit: The idea that Allah is a person or a spirit is considered blasphemous and demeans the Mysterious exalted one.
Elohim is a Spirit, Who expects us to worship Him in spirit and in truth, Elohim is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth,John 4:24.
No Elohim family: The Koran specifically denies that Allah is a father, that Yahshua is the Son of Elohim, or that Elohim is a divine family. Allah had no son, Muslims admit. The Bible reveals the family of Elohim,
For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Master Yahshua Messiah, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, Eph 3:14- 15.
By this we now are sons, For as many as are led by the Spirit of Elohim, they are the sons of Elohim. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of Elohim: And if children, then heirs; heirs of Elohim, and jointheirs with Messiah; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together, Romans 8:14-17.
Unlimited and Capricious: The Koran describes Allah as able to do anything, anytime, anyplace, anywhere. He is not even limited by his own nature and thus is untrustworthy since he is not bound by his nature or word. The Biblical Elohim is limited by His holy, set-apart own holy nature. He cannot lie or contradict Himself. (Yahweh cannot lie, Scripture cannot be broken). By being limited, Yahweh is greater than the capricious Allah.
No Love: The concept of Allah having feelings toward man is foreign to Islamic teaching .That would reduce Allah to a mere man, a blasphemous idea to a Muslim. Yahweh’s chief characteristics, the sum of all Bible teaching, is that Yahweh is love, and has feelings for His creatures, especially man,
For Yahweh so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life, John 3:16.
He that loveth not knoweth not Yahweh; for Yahweh is love, 1John 4:8.
Passive in history: Allah does not personally enter into human history. He deals with the world through his word, prophets and angels. Yahweh, especially in His Son Himself, enters history and acts to bring about man’s salvation,
To whom then will ye liken Yahweh? or what likeness will ye compare unto him? The workman melteth a graven image, and the goldsmith spreadeth it over with gold, and casteth silver chains. He that is so impoverished that he hath no oblation chooseth a tree that will not rot; he seeketh unto him a cunning workman to prepare a graven image, that shall not be moved. Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth? It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in. That bringeth the princes to nothing; he maketh the judges of the earth as vanity. Yea, they shall not be planted; yea, they shall not be sown: yea, their stock shall not take root in the earth: and he shall also blow upon them, and they shall wither, and the whirlwind shall take them away as stubble. To whom then will ye liken me, or shall I be equal? saith the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth. Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from Yahweh, and my judgment is passed over from my Elohim? Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting Elohim, Yahweh, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon Yahweh shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint, Isaiah 40:18-31.
Negative attributes: The 99 attributes of Allah are all negative; what he is NOT like. No positive attributes are listed. The Bible tells us what Yahweh is and what He is not.
No grace: There is no savior or intercessor or concept of grace in the Koran. This leads to a religion of salvation by works. YAHWEH of the Bible provides free salvation for man through the Savior Yahshua who acts as an intercessor between Yahweh and man,
For there is one Elohim, and one mediator between Elohim and men, the man Messiah Yahshua, 1Timothy 2:5.
A vast difference between Allah and Yahweh!
As reported in the January/February 2000 issue of Battle Cry, a comparison of Allah and Yahweh based on their presentation from the Koran and Bible respectively, is a study of opposites.
Unknowable: Allah is so transcendent, so exalted, that no man can personally know Allah. Yahweh, however, sent His Son Yahshua Messiah into the world so the people would know Yahweh personally,
And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true Elohim, and Yahshua Messiah, whom thou hast sent, John 17:3.
Those who have seen the Son have seen the Father,
Yahshua saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? (John 14:9)
Nonpersonal: Allah is not considered a person; this would lower him to the level of humankind. However, Elohim of the Bible is spoken of as a person with intellect, emotions and a will.
Nonspirit: The idea that Allah is a person or a spirit is considered blasphemous and demeans the Mysterious exalted one.
Elohim is a Spirit, Who expects us to worship Him in spirit and in truth, Elohim is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth,John 4:24.
No Elohim family: The Koran specifically denies that Allah is a father, that Yahshua is the Son of Elohim, or that Elohim is a divine family. Allah had no son, Muslims admit. The Bible reveals the family of Elohim,
For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Master Yahshua Messiah, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, Eph 3:14- 15.
By this we now are sons, For as many as are led by the Spirit of Elohim, they are the sons of Elohim. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of Elohim: And if children, then heirs; heirs of Elohim, and jointheirs with Messiah; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together, Romans 8:14-17.
Unlimited and Capricious: The Koran describes Allah as able to do anything, anytime, anyplace, anywhere. He is not even limited by his own nature and thus is untrustworthy since he is not bound by his nature or word. The Biblical Elohim is limited by His holy, set-apart own holy nature. He cannot lie or contradict Himself. (Yahweh cannot lie, Scripture cannot be broken). By being limited, Yahweh is greater than the capricious Allah.
No Love: The concept of Allah having feelings toward man is foreign to Islamic teaching .That would reduce Allah to a mere man, a blasphemous idea to a Muslim. Yahweh’s chief characteristics, the sum of all Bible teaching, is that Yahweh is love, and has feelings for His creatures, especially man,
For Yahweh so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life, John 3:16.
He that loveth not knoweth not Yahweh; for Yahweh is love, 1John 4:8.
Passive in history: Allah does not personally enter into human history. He deals with the world through his word, prophets and angels. Yahweh, especially in His Son Himself, enters history and acts to bring about man’s salvation,
To whom then will ye liken Yahweh? or what likeness will ye compare unto him? The workman melteth a graven image, and the goldsmith spreadeth it over with gold, and casteth silver chains. He that is so impoverished that he hath no oblation chooseth a tree that will not rot; he seeketh unto him a cunning workman to prepare a graven image, that shall not be moved. Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth? It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in. That bringeth the princes to nothing; he maketh the judges of the earth as vanity. Yea, they shall not be planted; yea, they shall not be sown: yea, their stock shall not take root in the earth: and he shall also blow upon them, and they shall wither, and the whirlwind shall take them away as stubble. To whom then will ye liken me, or shall I be equal? saith the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth. Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from Yahweh, and my judgment is passed over from my Elohim? Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting Elohim, Yahweh, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon Yahweh shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint, Isaiah 40:18-31.
Negative attributes: The 99 attributes of Allah are all negative; what he is NOT like. No positive attributes are listed. The Bible tells us what Yahweh is and what He is not.
No grace: There is no savior or intercessor or concept of grace in the Koran. This leads to a religion of salvation by works. YAHWEH of the Bible provides free salvation for man through the Savior Yahshua who acts as an intercessor between Yahweh and man,
For there is one Elohim, and one mediator between Elohim and men, the man Messiah Yahshua, 1Timothy 2:5.
A vast difference between Allah and Yahweh!
Islam’s Goal and Mission
The goal or mission of Muslims is to subjugate the world to have it ruled according to Islamic law. Conversion can be by persuasion or the sword. If these measures fail, the “infidels” or “unbelievers” must be eliminated. Leaders of Islam in America contend this applies to atheists and insist Muslims coexist with Jews and Christians. However, this is not exactly true. Every country ruled by Islamic law restricts religious freedom and often persecutes non-Muslims, oppresses, tortures and kills them.
According to Israel Today magazine, November 2001, Jihad, or holy war, is a pillar of Islam mandated by their scriptures—the Koran. A big difference is found in the Bible’s New Testament where Yahshua admonishes us to avoid being involved in legal matters which might lead to prison:
Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. (Matthew 5:25 AV)
The word “Islam” means (not only) devotion to Allah, (but also) subjection (of the world) to his will. Over 200 passages in the Koran call upon Moslems to fight against Christians and Jews in particular, as well as other “unbelievers.” Not all followers of Islam seek a holy war against Jews, Christians and others, even to the point of killing their enemies. Here are a few examples some Islamics seize upon to justify shedding of blood:
And slay them wherever you find them, Sura 2:191.
Lo! The worst of beasts in Allah’s sight are the ungrateful who will not believe, Sura 8:56.
Fight those of the unbelievers who are near to you, and let them find harshness in you, and know Allah is with those who serve him, Sura 9:123.
Fight them until they surrender, Sura 48:16.
So do not falter and cry out for peace when you will have the upper hand, for Allah is with you, Sura 47:35
We are spending time examining the religion of Islam, as it seems to be gaining adherents around the world. Often those who have accepted the Koran are quite vague in explaining why they have accepted Islam and are generally ignorant of the truth of Yahweh and His Son Yahshua.
The following are the five pillars (requirements) of Islam:
1) Five daily prayer sessions for worship,
2) Belief in “There is no g-d but Allah, and Mohammad is his prophet,”
3) Fasting from sunrise to sunset during the month of Ramadan,
4) Almsgiving for the poor, and
5) Pilgrimage to Mecca, once in a lifetime, those with means.
The goal or mission of Muslims is to subjugate the world to have it ruled according to Islamic law. Conversion can be by persuasion or the sword. If these measures fail, the “infidels” or “unbelievers” must be eliminated. Leaders of Islam in America contend this applies to atheists and insist Muslims coexist with Jews and Christians. However, this is not exactly true. Every country ruled by Islamic law restricts religious freedom and often persecutes non-Muslims, oppresses, tortures and kills them.
According to Israel Today magazine, November 2001, Jihad, or holy war, is a pillar of Islam mandated by their scriptures—the Koran. A big difference is found in the Bible’s New Testament where Yahshua admonishes us to avoid being involved in legal matters which might lead to prison:
Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. (Matthew 5:25 AV)
The word “Islam” means (not only) devotion to Allah, (but also) subjection (of the world) to his will. Over 200 passages in the Koran call upon Moslems to fight against Christians and Jews in particular, as well as other “unbelievers.” Not all followers of Islam seek a holy war against Jews, Christians and others, even to the point of killing their enemies. Here are a few examples some Islamics seize upon to justify shedding of blood:
And slay them wherever you find them, Sura 2:191.
Lo! The worst of beasts in Allah’s sight are the ungrateful who will not believe, Sura 8:56.
Fight those of the unbelievers who are near to you, and let them find harshness in you, and know Allah is with those who serve him, Sura 9:123.
Fight them until they surrender, Sura 48:16.
So do not falter and cry out for peace when you will have the upper hand, for Allah is with you, Sura 47:35
We are spending time examining the religion of Islam, as it seems to be gaining adherents around the world. Often those who have accepted the Koran are quite vague in explaining why they have accepted Islam and are generally ignorant of the truth of Yahweh and His Son Yahshua.
The following are the five pillars (requirements) of Islam:
1) Five daily prayer sessions for worship,
2) Belief in “There is no g-d but Allah, and Mohammad is his prophet,”
3) Fasting from sunrise to sunset during the month of Ramadan,
4) Almsgiving for the poor, and
5) Pilgrimage to Mecca, once in a lifetime, those with means.
Judaism - Jews and Others
We are familiar with the Jews who accept only the Old Testament and do not believe Yahshua is the promised Redeemer of Israel. Some will accept Him as a messenger, but not as Yahweh’s Son. They are looking for the Messiah to come.
We are familiar with the Jews who accept only the Old Testament and do not believe Yahshua is the promised Redeemer of Israel. Some will accept Him as a messenger, but not as Yahweh’s Son. They are looking for the Messiah to come.
Hinduism
Hinduism has its roots in the Far East and makes ritual perfection their end. Humans are considered potentially divine, and the purpose of life is to recognize this through prayer, meditations, lectures and readings of India such as the Upanishads, the Bhagavad-Gita and the writings of Shankara. Yoga, an attitude of mind or thought control, is sometimes a part of Hindu groups.
Hinduism has its roots in the Far East and makes ritual perfection their end. Humans are considered potentially divine, and the purpose of life is to recognize this through prayer, meditations, lectures and readings of India such as the Upanishads, the Bhagavad-Gita and the writings of Shankara. Yoga, an attitude of mind or thought control, is sometimes a part of Hindu groups.
Buddhism
Buddhism sprang from Hinduism, founded by Prince Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha), who was deeply affected by the sufferings of the common people. One group (Hinayana) stayed with original teachings. The Mahayana encompasses numerous divine beings, ritual and magic. In China many Buddhists are also Confucanists as well, while in Japan many Buddhists are also Shintoists.
Buddha did not teach a personal deity. He taught that Nirvana, a state of being passionless, without any selfish desire, is our universal goal. Self is to be denied so that true life may be attained, which is the true Nirvana.
What has been written here is that we have introduced seven of the most widely followed religions in today’s world. We did not touch on the many tribal religions of the Indians or Africans and others. For those and a deeper study one can go to the local library or turn to the internet for more information. We will delve into the glorious future that is ours if we are willing to apply ourselves according to Yahweh’s guiding hand.
Buddhism sprang from Hinduism, founded by Prince Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha), who was deeply affected by the sufferings of the common people. One group (Hinayana) stayed with original teachings. The Mahayana encompasses numerous divine beings, ritual and magic. In China many Buddhists are also Confucanists as well, while in Japan many Buddhists are also Shintoists.
Buddha did not teach a personal deity. He taught that Nirvana, a state of being passionless, without any selfish desire, is our universal goal. Self is to be denied so that true life may be attained, which is the true Nirvana.
What has been written here is that we have introduced seven of the most widely followed religions in today’s world. We did not touch on the many tribal religions of the Indians or Africans and others. For those and a deeper study one can go to the local library or turn to the internet for more information. We will delve into the glorious future that is ours if we are willing to apply ourselves according to Yahweh’s guiding hand.
Study With Proper Preparations
Always remember to start your study of Yahweh’s Word with prayer. Ask Him to guide and be with you as you take up each study so that the proper sense and meaning will be clear. Determine now that you will spend a part of each day in your study of His word. Discipline yourself to seek the deeper truth of the Bible. Greatness is never achieved apart from great discipline.
Always remember to start your study of Yahweh’s Word with prayer. Ask Him to guide and be with you as you take up each study so that the proper sense and meaning will be clear. Determine now that you will spend a part of each day in your study of His word. Discipline yourself to seek the deeper truth of the Bible. Greatness is never achieved apart from great discipline.
The Living Word
The Bible was written by certain men who were inspired by Yahweh’s Spirit. Anyone with an open mind and a soft heart can learn from the Bible, for it is through the Word He reveals Himself and His plan for all people. Our Savior, Yahshua, said He was the Way, the Truth and the Life. He is also the Word, for His life was a clear example of obedience in which He made Yahweh’s Word come alive through living it.
The Bible continues to be the world’s best-selling book. It claims to be inspired by Yahweh and tells the end from the beginning. From it we learn about life, death, the spirit realm, immortality and man’s ultimate destiny. Modern science, instead of denigrating the Bible, continues to prove the Bible is true.
The Bible was written by certain men who were inspired by Yahweh’s Spirit. Anyone with an open mind and a soft heart can learn from the Bible, for it is through the Word He reveals Himself and His plan for all people. Our Savior, Yahshua, said He was the Way, the Truth and the Life. He is also the Word, for His life was a clear example of obedience in which He made Yahweh’s Word come alive through living it.
The Bible continues to be the world’s best-selling book. It claims to be inspired by Yahweh and tells the end from the beginning. From it we learn about life, death, the spirit realm, immortality and man’s ultimate destiny. Modern science, instead of denigrating the Bible, continues to prove the Bible is true.
Scientific creationists continue to gather more proof this world got here by a Creator.
The Book Nobody Knows
In spite of burgeoning technology, the Bible continues to outsell all other books. Science, aided by computer technology and improved investigative procedures, has vindicated and proved many doubtful statements from the past. The Bible is quoted by statesmen, philosophers, politicians, presidents, and orbiting astronauts. Within its pages are quotes for people from all walks of life.
The Bible has been handed down through the ages, but has it remained true without alteration? The early followers, such as Jeremiah, are the ones responsible for the codex or book form we presently have with our Bibles beginning in the second, third and fourth centuries. Many of these early manuscripts are in museums and libraries like the Chester Beatty Library in Dublin, Ireland. Here are the oldest substantial manuscripts of the Greek Bible in existence, some written within a hundred years of the original composition.
Copying manuscripts like these was tedious and tiring, and open to error. It was easy to miss a letter, or omit a line, no matter how careful the copyist tried to be. It goes without saying there are no originals of either the Old Testament Hebrew or the Greek New Testament.
The sheer beauty of the Psalms, the wisdom found in Proverbs, the intricacies of the Book of Romans overwhelms many by the simplicity, yet unsearchable depths, of the Bible. People from all walks of life have found in its pages just the right words for any occasion. Moments of awe and wonder, inspiration and success, stress and anguish, confusion and doubt, peace and serenity—all of these are found in this Book of books.
Only a few throughout history continue to take the Bible seriously. The world’s majority fails to recognize the Bible as a handbook for mankind provided by our Creator, Yahweh, as the guiding influence in our life. The Bible gives direction and examples for triumph and adversity, joy and sorrow, prosperity and poverty, confidence and doubt. It gives courage when we are unsure, love when we are lonely and hope when we are discouraged.
Viewing its literary aspect alone, the Bible is preeminent. Probably no language could be more suited to touch man’s understanding than Hebrew. Its allegorical imagery, concise, chaste style; its forthright narratives penetrating the human veneer even of its heroes; its unfathomable wisdom and balanced logic; its stately language and lofty themes – all these combine to make it one of the most sought-after books around the world. It is perennially the world’s best seller.
In spite of burgeoning technology, the Bible continues to outsell all other books. Science, aided by computer technology and improved investigative procedures, has vindicated and proved many doubtful statements from the past. The Bible is quoted by statesmen, philosophers, politicians, presidents, and orbiting astronauts. Within its pages are quotes for people from all walks of life.
The Bible has been handed down through the ages, but has it remained true without alteration? The early followers, such as Jeremiah, are the ones responsible for the codex or book form we presently have with our Bibles beginning in the second, third and fourth centuries. Many of these early manuscripts are in museums and libraries like the Chester Beatty Library in Dublin, Ireland. Here are the oldest substantial manuscripts of the Greek Bible in existence, some written within a hundred years of the original composition.
Copying manuscripts like these was tedious and tiring, and open to error. It was easy to miss a letter, or omit a line, no matter how careful the copyist tried to be. It goes without saying there are no originals of either the Old Testament Hebrew or the Greek New Testament.
The sheer beauty of the Psalms, the wisdom found in Proverbs, the intricacies of the Book of Romans overwhelms many by the simplicity, yet unsearchable depths, of the Bible. People from all walks of life have found in its pages just the right words for any occasion. Moments of awe and wonder, inspiration and success, stress and anguish, confusion and doubt, peace and serenity—all of these are found in this Book of books.
Only a few throughout history continue to take the Bible seriously. The world’s majority fails to recognize the Bible as a handbook for mankind provided by our Creator, Yahweh, as the guiding influence in our life. The Bible gives direction and examples for triumph and adversity, joy and sorrow, prosperity and poverty, confidence and doubt. It gives courage when we are unsure, love when we are lonely and hope when we are discouraged.
Viewing its literary aspect alone, the Bible is preeminent. Probably no language could be more suited to touch man’s understanding than Hebrew. Its allegorical imagery, concise, chaste style; its forthright narratives penetrating the human veneer even of its heroes; its unfathomable wisdom and balanced logic; its stately language and lofty themes – all these combine to make it one of the most sought-after books around the world. It is perennially the world’s best seller.
Is the Bible Greek to You?
In His wisdom Yahweh has allowed the New Testament to come down to us in the Greek language. However, an increasing number of scholars contend both the Old and New Testaments were first written in Hebrew (see our Hebrew/ Aramaic New Testament mini-study). Many of the New Testament scholars shunned anything “Jewish,” cared little for, nor did they understand Hebrew. Many were ignorant of Hebrew and knew little of the customs of Old Testament Israel.
Because the New Testament was handed to us in Greek, it was more acceptable to those with a Jewish prejudice. Since the campaigns of Alexander the Great, Greek culture (known as Hellenism) spread through the known world and became the international language of communication. It was supplanted by French and presently English is the “lingua franca” world language of business, banking, diplomacy and commerce.
For educating the whole man both spiritually and morally, the Bible has no equal. A study of the Scriptures will open new and varied vistas, elevate the goals of man, broaden his wisdom, dignify his affections, strengthen his mind, and help him gain new insight into his motives and actions.
A good understanding and applying of scriptural principles will give man sharper discernment and add strength to his character. If he practices the advice and admonitions given in Yahweh’s Word, he will elevate his morals. As an instruction book on living, the Bible is without peer. It brings tranquility in believing and unwavering hope for the future. It answers the questions why we exist, why we are here on earth, and beckons us to seize our potential destiny. Scripture inspires us to loftier goals, patience, and purity. It fills us with a love for the Heavenly Father and His Son, and gives a simple desire to react with love to our fellow human beings. It teaches us the value of every human life by revealing the price that was paid for redeeming mankind. It tells of the future and of the preparations necessary to meet it.
The Bible has been acclaimed as the most widely known book in the English-speaking world. “…No one in the English-speaking world can be considered literatewithout a basic knowledge of the Bible” (D.D. Hirsch Jr., Joseph F. Kett and James Trefil, The Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, page 1).
In countries such as the Philippines and India, English is often the basic language of communication between groups. They must know about or even understand the Bible to some extent to grasp the meaning of expressions such as David and Goliath, or the “patience of Job.” Americans, in particular, assert the Bible has greatly influenced their lives. Surveys by both the Library of Congress and Book-of the- Month Club indicated for Americans it was the Bible which had most influenced their lives.
Many great men in history have acknowledged the wisdom of the Bible as they quoted from the pages of Yahweh’s Word. Patrick Henry quoted the Bible three times in a speech before the Virginia Convention in March 1775. Daniel Webster alluded to Moses’ bringing forth water from a rock and Elisha’s bones that revived a dead man (Num. 20:11; 2 Kings 13:21) in a speech about Alexander Hamilton in 1831.
While the Bible is often used at swearing in ceremonies, and is often carried by the prospective bride at her wedding, the Bible is little read, and even less understood. Reading the Bible with comprehension is becoming less and less common as diversions such as sports, internet, television and computers consume more and more of the public’s time. As literature, the Bible has tremendously influenced our society, culture and language even among those who do not believe it to be inspired. How much more meaningful is the very Word of the Almighty to those of us who accept it as the inspired Words of our Creator and Sustainer!
As time draws us closer to the promised return of the Messiah, our society has been given the greatest opportunity of all time to do deep research and study. Confirmation of the Bible is seen in the finding of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Computerized Bible helps, such as Bible encyclopedias, dictionaries, histories, lexicons, concordances and technical study helps not available 50 years ago, can be used in doing research and study. We have advantages the world has never seen!
In His wisdom Yahweh has allowed the New Testament to come down to us in the Greek language. However, an increasing number of scholars contend both the Old and New Testaments were first written in Hebrew (see our Hebrew/ Aramaic New Testament mini-study). Many of the New Testament scholars shunned anything “Jewish,” cared little for, nor did they understand Hebrew. Many were ignorant of Hebrew and knew little of the customs of Old Testament Israel.
Because the New Testament was handed to us in Greek, it was more acceptable to those with a Jewish prejudice. Since the campaigns of Alexander the Great, Greek culture (known as Hellenism) spread through the known world and became the international language of communication. It was supplanted by French and presently English is the “lingua franca” world language of business, banking, diplomacy and commerce.
For educating the whole man both spiritually and morally, the Bible has no equal. A study of the Scriptures will open new and varied vistas, elevate the goals of man, broaden his wisdom, dignify his affections, strengthen his mind, and help him gain new insight into his motives and actions.
A good understanding and applying of scriptural principles will give man sharper discernment and add strength to his character. If he practices the advice and admonitions given in Yahweh’s Word, he will elevate his morals. As an instruction book on living, the Bible is without peer. It brings tranquility in believing and unwavering hope for the future. It answers the questions why we exist, why we are here on earth, and beckons us to seize our potential destiny. Scripture inspires us to loftier goals, patience, and purity. It fills us with a love for the Heavenly Father and His Son, and gives a simple desire to react with love to our fellow human beings. It teaches us the value of every human life by revealing the price that was paid for redeeming mankind. It tells of the future and of the preparations necessary to meet it.
The Bible has been acclaimed as the most widely known book in the English-speaking world. “…No one in the English-speaking world can be considered literatewithout a basic knowledge of the Bible” (D.D. Hirsch Jr., Joseph F. Kett and James Trefil, The Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, page 1).
In countries such as the Philippines and India, English is often the basic language of communication between groups. They must know about or even understand the Bible to some extent to grasp the meaning of expressions such as David and Goliath, or the “patience of Job.” Americans, in particular, assert the Bible has greatly influenced their lives. Surveys by both the Library of Congress and Book-of the- Month Club indicated for Americans it was the Bible which had most influenced their lives.
Many great men in history have acknowledged the wisdom of the Bible as they quoted from the pages of Yahweh’s Word. Patrick Henry quoted the Bible three times in a speech before the Virginia Convention in March 1775. Daniel Webster alluded to Moses’ bringing forth water from a rock and Elisha’s bones that revived a dead man (Num. 20:11; 2 Kings 13:21) in a speech about Alexander Hamilton in 1831.
While the Bible is often used at swearing in ceremonies, and is often carried by the prospective bride at her wedding, the Bible is little read, and even less understood. Reading the Bible with comprehension is becoming less and less common as diversions such as sports, internet, television and computers consume more and more of the public’s time. As literature, the Bible has tremendously influenced our society, culture and language even among those who do not believe it to be inspired. How much more meaningful is the very Word of the Almighty to those of us who accept it as the inspired Words of our Creator and Sustainer!
As time draws us closer to the promised return of the Messiah, our society has been given the greatest opportunity of all time to do deep research and study. Confirmation of the Bible is seen in the finding of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Computerized Bible helps, such as Bible encyclopedias, dictionaries, histories, lexicons, concordances and technical study helps not available 50 years ago, can be used in doing research and study. We have advantages the world has never seen!
Scientific and Historically Accurate
Worldly scholars attest to the Bible’s greatness as literature as its many statements are in harmony with scientific and historic research. Not a history book, yet its historical records are being proved accurate almost daily as archaeologists unearth evidence supporting Bible statements. The Bible is not a book to teach science, yet it states our planet is a sphere even when most of the world’s intellectuals up to the time of Columbus thought the earth was flat. Not only do we learn the earth is round, but are given a glimpse of the majesty of Yahweh:
It is He that sitteth above the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in, Isaiah 40:22 ASV.
He stretcheth out the north over empty space, And hangeth the earth upon nothing, Job 26:7.
I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened, Daniel 7:9-10 AV.
Worldly scholars attest to the Bible’s greatness as literature as its many statements are in harmony with scientific and historic research. Not a history book, yet its historical records are being proved accurate almost daily as archaeologists unearth evidence supporting Bible statements. The Bible is not a book to teach science, yet it states our planet is a sphere even when most of the world’s intellectuals up to the time of Columbus thought the earth was flat. Not only do we learn the earth is round, but are given a glimpse of the majesty of Yahweh:
It is He that sitteth above the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in, Isaiah 40:22 ASV.
He stretcheth out the north over empty space, And hangeth the earth upon nothing, Job 26:7.
I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened, Daniel 7:9-10 AV.
History and Restoration
The flood account in Genesis 6 is continually corroborated by scientific findings. The week of earth’s physical creation, which included man, is given in the first chapters of the Book of Genesis. Man’s original perfect creation, and his disobedience and the consequent condemnation to die by his Creator, gives us the background of mankind’s present situation. Because of His continued love for mankind, Yahweh sent His Son into the world as the Redeemer and Savior of the human race.
Our Creator’s plan for the recovery of the human race through a Savior is given early in Genesis chapter three:
I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed: he shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel, Genesis 3:15 ASV.
From this third chapter of Genesis we are given the history of mankind and the intervention of Yahweh in man’s affairs. Yahweh gives us the plan for the redemption of mankind through a special Redeemer. A resurrection of the dead is promised in His program. It is up to us to learn what Yahweh’s program is for redeeming mankind so we can follow it and benefit from His tender mercies.
His promise of a resurrection of mankind is a hope not promised by any other religion in the world. The lesson taught over and over is that the penalty for sin—breaking Yahweh’s law—is death. Due to Adam’s sin, death now befalls all mankind:
Elohim had said to Adam, “In the day that you eat thereof you shall surely die,” (be doomed to death – Anchor Bible) Genesis 2:17.
The Bible does not teach that death is gateway to another life, but is the very cessation of life. Life comes to a stop, a standstill. Death is not the reincarnation of the soul, the sentient wisp of a being into another body. Life is no more. Death is not the transfer of a life to some other person, animal, or sphere. Death is the absence of life.
The account of creation as given in Genesis, chapters one and two, is as if Yahweh wound up a clock, setting life in motion which has then been running down ever since. Life can only come from life, the life He created at the beginning came from the Life-giver.
The flood account in Genesis 6 is continually corroborated by scientific findings. The week of earth’s physical creation, which included man, is given in the first chapters of the Book of Genesis. Man’s original perfect creation, and his disobedience and the consequent condemnation to die by his Creator, gives us the background of mankind’s present situation. Because of His continued love for mankind, Yahweh sent His Son into the world as the Redeemer and Savior of the human race.
Our Creator’s plan for the recovery of the human race through a Savior is given early in Genesis chapter three:
I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed: he shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel, Genesis 3:15 ASV.
From this third chapter of Genesis we are given the history of mankind and the intervention of Yahweh in man’s affairs. Yahweh gives us the plan for the redemption of mankind through a special Redeemer. A resurrection of the dead is promised in His program. It is up to us to learn what Yahweh’s program is for redeeming mankind so we can follow it and benefit from His tender mercies.
His promise of a resurrection of mankind is a hope not promised by any other religion in the world. The lesson taught over and over is that the penalty for sin—breaking Yahweh’s law—is death. Due to Adam’s sin, death now befalls all mankind:
Elohim had said to Adam, “In the day that you eat thereof you shall surely die,” (be doomed to death – Anchor Bible) Genesis 2:17.
The Bible does not teach that death is gateway to another life, but is the very cessation of life. Life comes to a stop, a standstill. Death is not the reincarnation of the soul, the sentient wisp of a being into another body. Life is no more. Death is not the transfer of a life to some other person, animal, or sphere. Death is the absence of life.
The account of creation as given in Genesis, chapters one and two, is as if Yahweh wound up a clock, setting life in motion which has then been running down ever since. Life can only come from life, the life He created at the beginning came from the Life-giver.
Scripture’s Four Classifications
In showing the love the Creator has for His creation, and His plan to bring about a restoration, the Bible could be divided into four classifications: doctrinal, historical, inspirational, and prophetic.
o The doctrinal aspect outlines the details of the Creator’s plan for the recovery of man from sin and death;
o The historical section supplies the background of human experience to which the outworking of the holy plan has been related;
o The inspirational aspects comprise the promises Yahweh made to His people throughout the ages, by which He has assured them of His guiding and sustaining power in their lives, enabling them to be acceptable servants in doing His will; and
o The prophetic truths of the Bible are its forecasts of coming events related to the completion of the heavenly plan and of the future efforts that would be made by men and nations either to counterfeit or to thwart these sacred designs.
This is the Book you need to study – the Holy Bible given to the Hebrew speaking people through Yahweh’s inspiration of His prophets who wrote and spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit,
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of Yahweh spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit, 2 Peter 1:21.
Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 3:16 that all Scripture is inspired by Yahweh. We accept the Bible as true. It is assumed that you have already proved the validity of the Bible or wish to do so, and that you are now seeking a deeper understanding of the Inspired Word, and how it applies to our lives. Even more important, however, is how you should apply Biblical instruction to your life.
In showing the love the Creator has for His creation, and His plan to bring about a restoration, the Bible could be divided into four classifications: doctrinal, historical, inspirational, and prophetic.
o The doctrinal aspect outlines the details of the Creator’s plan for the recovery of man from sin and death;
o The historical section supplies the background of human experience to which the outworking of the holy plan has been related;
o The inspirational aspects comprise the promises Yahweh made to His people throughout the ages, by which He has assured them of His guiding and sustaining power in their lives, enabling them to be acceptable servants in doing His will; and
o The prophetic truths of the Bible are its forecasts of coming events related to the completion of the heavenly plan and of the future efforts that would be made by men and nations either to counterfeit or to thwart these sacred designs.
This is the Book you need to study – the Holy Bible given to the Hebrew speaking people through Yahweh’s inspiration of His prophets who wrote and spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit,
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of Yahweh spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit, 2 Peter 1:21.
Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 3:16 that all Scripture is inspired by Yahweh. We accept the Bible as true. It is assumed that you have already proved the validity of the Bible or wish to do so, and that you are now seeking a deeper understanding of the Inspired Word, and how it applies to our lives. Even more important, however, is how you should apply Biblical instruction to your life.
Studying
What logically should be the place to start to study the Bible? We could start at the first book and take a thrilling panoramic journey through the creation and the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the garden. Then we would go on to Abraham and the covenant made with him and reconfirmed in the 12 tribes of Israel by Jacob in Genesis 49, continuing through the rest of the Bible.
Another starting point might be the prophecies immediately ahead of us and what we can expect of the future. With increasing sin and lawlessness rampant in our world, the price to be paid for this rebellion against Yahweh will be horrifyingly dear and will bring an end to this age. It will be so terrible that if Yahweh Himself did not intervene, there would be no survivors of the human race. But He promises grace and protection to those few who will yield their lives to Him now. He is calling out a select few to be pioneers in an entirely new life. If we understand the grand design and the promises for us written in the Bible, then we know what we are striving for. If we can see the end from the beginning, then we know what we should be learning along the way that will prepare us for the times ahead.
Our final goal, then, is where to start - look at your destiny, the purpose for which you are born. Only Holy Scripture has the answer to the ultimate potential now being shaped for a select group among the human race. The wonderful part is, you can be included in it!
What logically should be the place to start to study the Bible? We could start at the first book and take a thrilling panoramic journey through the creation and the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the garden. Then we would go on to Abraham and the covenant made with him and reconfirmed in the 12 tribes of Israel by Jacob in Genesis 49, continuing through the rest of the Bible.
Another starting point might be the prophecies immediately ahead of us and what we can expect of the future. With increasing sin and lawlessness rampant in our world, the price to be paid for this rebellion against Yahweh will be horrifyingly dear and will bring an end to this age. It will be so terrible that if Yahweh Himself did not intervene, there would be no survivors of the human race. But He promises grace and protection to those few who will yield their lives to Him now. He is calling out a select few to be pioneers in an entirely new life. If we understand the grand design and the promises for us written in the Bible, then we know what we are striving for. If we can see the end from the beginning, then we know what we should be learning along the way that will prepare us for the times ahead.
Our final goal, then, is where to start - look at your destiny, the purpose for which you are born. Only Holy Scripture has the answer to the ultimate potential now being shaped for a select group among the human race. The wonderful part is, you can be included in it!
-Elder Donald R. Mansager
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