Introduction
In Genesis 6:3 God states: “His spirit would not strive with man forever, for he is indeed flesh.” He then comes to and gives finality to this verse. “Yet his days shall be one hundred and twenty years.” God is precise and unchanging and this includes the time allotted for mankind. The 120 years is a reference to 120 jubilee years. In a cycle of 50 years, the 50th year is a jubilee year. Thus 120×50 is 6,000 years allotted to humans. Many rabbis, Christian scholars and numerous commentaries consider this to be a reasonable understanding of this verse.
Ussher’s Dating and Questions
James Ussher, a Scottish scholar, published in the year 1658 his renowned book, “The Annals of the World,” a classic survey of biblical and world history. An important part of his book deals with biblical chronology. His learned opinion is that the Earth was refashioned, and in the fall of the year 4004 BC Adam was created. 4004 from the year 6000 would be 1996.
It is interesting to note Ussher’s date for the year Israel began their journey out of Egyptian captivity and slavery. His calculation is the year 1490 BC. A number of historians suggest 1486 BC. Others mention 1494-95 BC, give or take a year or two. The beginning of the exodus is 1490 BC. Israel crossed over into the promised land in the spring of the year 1450 BC – a jubilee year.
The life span of the principle characters of biblical history beginning with Adam to Noah, to Abraham, to Joseph and then unto the judges and kings is fairly straightforward. The difficulty for Ussher and others was dating the Assyrian and Babylonian kings leading up to captivity of Israel and Judah.
My point to all the above is simply this; the year 2000 was exactly, to the year, from the creation of Adam and Eve, 6,000 years. How then is it that as of this writing, early 2023, we are 15 years beyond the benchmark date of 2000? Why has Christ not yet returned to setup the kingdom of God on Earth? And the final questions: Where are we now in the end time activities leading to Messiah’s return? Can we know with some degree of certainty the timeline of major events leading to His return? For Christians today, our time now – the End Time Generation – I believe understanding this matter of end time prophetic events and the timing of these activities is crucial.
Christ’s Words Give Understanding and Direction
The underlying premise for many appears to be that Jesus said He did not know the time (day) of His return. He said this before He gave up his physical life. At that point in time He did not know. Matthew 24:44, In Jesus own words, “Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” Hour, a very small period of time. It may be that we cannot know the exact day – however I believe it is possible to reason His return down to within a few weeks and possibly even days.
Christ fulfilled His commission and everything assigned to Him by his Father. He is our qualified Savior that sets us in an acceptable relationship with our LORD God. Because of His proven works, excellent character, love for all the commandments and law, love for His Father and mankind; all things have been given to Him. This includes the complete and detailed timeline of activities for the few remaining years to His return. Thus I believe Messiah intends for end time Christians to understand in detail what lies ahead not only for ourselves, but all mankind. This includes how to survive to His return.
Mat 24 (also Mark 12 and Luke 21) is basically an overview of mankind’s 6,000 years of self-determination. It contains specific information for our time. When incorporated with the writings of Daniel and John in Revelation we can develop an accurate timeline of events.
Jesus said in Mat 24:25, “See I have told you all things beforehand.” Luke 21:32, “Assuredly, I say to you, this generation (our time now) will by no means pass away till all things take place.” Mark 13:23 has it, “But take heed; see, I have told you all things beforehand.” Daniel and John support and amplify the quoted words of Jesus.
For Christians today it is important to have an understanding of where specific biblical prophecies fall in the ongoing scheme of human activities in the end times. Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21 are parallel accounts. These three chapters bear witness to the truth and accuracy of Jesus’ words, “Let no man carry you away.” Again, let us remember, “I have told you all things beforehand.”
Determining Critical Periods of Time and Their Meaning
Six-thousand years have come and gone. How much time does mankind have left? In this remaining time the prophecies of Matthew 24, Daniel and Revelation find their completion. According to Jesus we must be alert and discerning the times. Thus as we constantly consider major world events we should have an appreciation for ongoing activities that demonstrate the flow of prophecies and see the confirmation of the Holy Scriptures. If we are tuned to the key signs pointing to the return of Messiah, we will not be disappointed.
Certain numbers and combination of numbers are found in scripture. Numbers outline periods of time and help form explanations for certain activities and events which are associated within the space of this time.
As one of their God-ordained responsibilities, the Jews have been chosen to be a harbinger. One sign is marked time which demonstrates God’s involvement in their being as a people, nation and religion. These things carry over as markers for all nations in these final years. Let us examine certain of these numbers.
The number 10 signifies perfection of divine order, commencing a new series of numbers. Completeness of order. Nothing is wanting, the cycle is complete.
- Noah – the 10th generation
- The 10 plagues upon Egypt
- The 10 Commandments
- Israel’s 10 rebellions in the wilderness
- The tithe is one-tenth of certain designated wholes
The number 40. A number associated with a period of probation, trial and chastisement. It is a product of 5 and 8 which points to the action of grace (favor) leading to and ending in rival and renewal. The number 40 can also refer to enlarged dominions or to be renewed or extend rule.
- 40 years from the Exodus to the Promise Land
- 40 years in the wilderness
- Moses’ 40 years in Egypt and 40 years in Midian
- From the crucifixion to the destruction of the temple and Judah’s end as a sovereign nation in 70 AD was 40 years
- Jesus’ 40 days fasting and tempted by Satan
- Moses’ 40 days on the mountain receiving the commandments and law
- Jesus seen by His disciples for 40 days after His resurrection
(Partial information from E.W. Bullinger’s book “Numbers in Scripture”)
The number 50 is a combination of 40 and 10 – completeness of purpose and restoration after trial. This is not a jubilee 50, it is separate and different.
The Modern Day Jewish State of Israel in Prophecy
In the year 1917 the Belford Declaration was the formalized agreement and arrangement that would lead to the establishment of the modern Jewish state of Israel. In 1947-48 certain ancient lands and territories including Jerusalem now had the standing of an independent state. This piece of land was now recognized as a sovereign country. From 1917 to 1967, the year of the Six Day War, Israel was established as a power to be reckoned with. This was a make or break war. God had determined the outcome.
From 1917 to 1967 is a period of 50 years. Now approaching for Israel is the year 2017, another period of 50 years, thus a total of time of 100 years. This time period takes Israel, America, Europe, and all the world to the year of 2017.
Shemitah — The 7th Year Land Rest & Release of Debt
(Ref. Exodus 23:10-11; Duet 15:1-5)
On the Jewish calendar the Shemitah year begins on the first day of the seventh month known as Tishri. This is sometime during our months of September and October. So it is that in a seven year space of time, the 7th year is a Shemitah year. A year of land rest and release from debt. There are 7 time spans of 7 years which equals 49 years. Add one year for the jubilee year and again the cycle is repeated.
To put into perspective and lay groundwork for that which is to follow, an examination of the numbers 3 and 7 will be helpful. Three is the symbol of the triangle. A triangle has three equal sides. The cube of 3 is x3 or 3x3x3 = 27. Three stands for that which is solid, real, substantial, complete or entire. In scripture the compilation of 3 marks divine completeness or perfection. Seven is the natural division of time. The number of spiritual perfection. A matter consisting of 7 units is considered complete. For instance the 7 day week. Saturday is the 7th day. God set it aside as a day of rest from labor. The number eight signifies a new beginning. The Sabbath begins Friday as the sun sets and completes its course at sunset going into the first day of the week – an 8th day.
For Orthodox Judaism this is the year 5775. However they do understand the 120 jubilee cycles. As a point of interest:
- 6,000 – 5,775 = 225 years
- 225 / 7 = 32.142857 (round to 32.143)
- 32.143 x 7 = 225.001 years. This includes 4 jubilee years. Thus the Jews’ calendar also comes to the year 2000 – a jubilee year.
From the fall of 2001 to the fall of 2007 is 7 years. From the fall of 2007 to the fall 2014 is 14 years. From the fall of 2014 to the autumn of 2021 is 21 years. Remember and consider the numbers 3 and 7. Seven as grouped here is a true witness of completion of purpose and plan. The year 2021 is important concerning end time events leading to Christ’s return.
The Redeemed Years
Redeem, the dictionary definition: to get back or buy back or recover. In the context of God’s 6,000 year plan, what is redeemed time? It is time that does not fit into the given 6,000 years. It is set aside time which is properly positioned after the 120th jubilee year.
Seven Years for Adam and Eve
The Bible provides basic and necessary information concerning Adam and Eve. No dates for birth of children or major events such as Cain killing Abel. The Bible does not date Adam and Eve’s sin and removal from the garden. It is necessary to look at other credible sources to establish an important detail of fact: When did they sin?
The Jews in their historical writings make a reasonable case for the time/date of Adam and Eve’s fall. The Book of Jubilee makes the following comments: “In the first week of the first jubilee Adam and his wife were in the Garden of Eden for 7 years, working and watching; and we gave them work and taught them to work everything that offered itself for work.” In other words how to provide and care for themselves. Becoming familiar with life and acquainted with God. The LORD God gave the first humans time to learn and adjust. He gave them time to become familiar and knowledgeable as to what he required and desired of them. Time for them to learn and understand they were free moral agents given the power of choice. Continuing, “And having ended the completion of seven years in the second month on the 17th day of the month/fall, the serpent came and approached the woman.” Another writing reads, “It is said that Adam was created in the autumn,” perhaps close to the holy days called the Feast of Tabernacles. This writing, the Book of Enoch, further states that Adam and Eve were seven years in the garden, “Being instructed and in close communion with God. The years of innocence.”
For seven years sin was not found in the first two humans. These years are redeemed years. They are not counted as part of the 6,000 years. For seven complete years humanity had a full and unhindered relationship with their creator. These redeemed years are placed immediately after the 6,000th year.
Days/Years of Awe
To introduce the subject at hand and set the stage for commentary, several dictionary definitions will be helpful.
From Webster’s New World Dictionary. The English word awe comes from the Greek achos. A mixed feeling of reverence, fear, and wonder caused by something majestic, sublime, sacred. The power of inspiring intense fear or fearful reverence.
Synonym: A feeling of fearful or profound respect or wonder inspired by greatness, superiority, grandeur of a person or thing. Reverence applied to a feeling of deep respect mingled with love for something one holds sacred. Veneration implies worshipful reverence for a person or thing regard as hallowed or sacred and specifically suggests acts of religious devotion.
Holman Bible Dictionary. Awe, awesome: the term refers to an emotion combining honor, fear and respect before someone of superior office or actions. Most appropriately applies to God.
Jewish Traditions
In Jewish tradition there is a 40 day period of time known as Teshuvah (teh-shoe-vah). It begins on the eve of Elul, the month preceding Tishri and continues to Tesha 10, the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). This is a 40 day period of self-examination, reverting and returning to God. It is said (Jewish historical writings) the beginning of Teshuvah was when Moses went up Mt. Sinai for the second time to commune with the Lord. The tradition further states that the day of trumpets through atonement is the final time to make matters right with God. Thus the days between Tishri 1 and Tishri 10 are known as the Days of Awe. The last opportunity for redemption and reconciliation with God. The Lord gives special attention to those who seriously consider their past behavior and determine to do better for the coming year.
The Bible does not have any statement of commentary for these days between Tishri 1 and Tishri 10. These traditions had their beginning with the children of Israel at the Exodus. At this time the Jews were one of the 12 tribes in the wilderness. However they received the commission to maintain and preserve for all future generations the yearly practice of certain God-centered activities not recorded in the scripture. Not included are the pharisaical added on rules and regulations that are works of self-justification – which Jesus faulted.
The Church of God Today
The churches of God (and other Christian groups) have a similar problem. The modern area of the Church of God re-established its roots in the mid-1930s. As the church grew and prospered certain biblical truths were settled and promoted. This part was good.
However a number of teachings were also introduced which became traditions and acceptable doctrine. Suppositions that were poorly thought out and researched. Words, verses and even direct quotes of Jesus became uncertain and confused because they were taken out of context and misapplied. Error must be met and dealt with. Changes made in order to come to be in compliance with the simply biblical and specific teachings as recorded by men under the inspiration of God’s spirit.
The Days (Years) of Awe are Redeemed Time
With this background information let us come to appreciate why the 10 Years of Awe (a day for a year) are redeemed time. We do not want to push or pull in an unreasonable way. When a reasonable possibility, which means a likely probability, presents itself, the issue needs to be addressed so that a correct and balanced understanding is gained. The lasting benefit being true godly faith (trust) based on the scriptural evidence and facts upon which truth is founded.
Earlier we touched on the Jewish idea of the Days of Awe. Let us translate the principle to our time now. Even though matters have not been and nor are they perfect now in the various assemblies of God, I do believe God is still the source of being for his people. God desires to bring as many, who are willing, to fill maturity in Christ so that He may lavish on these people all the benefits of a faith founded on proven scripture truths.
God has set these 10 Years of Awe as His special time of purpose and selection for his end time living saints. This time belongs to God and Jesus Christ. Thus it is not part of the 6,000 years. It is redeemed time. The remainder of His select people who just could not grasp the importance of this matter will later on acknowledge and accept the truth and a missed opportunity. These saints will be a powerful and faithful witness to a sin sick and dying world. They will receive a great reward.
End Time Awareness
The prophets tell us a certain kind of stability in world events will cause many to assume things are settling down and peace is making progress among the nations. But the prophets also write that in a day, perhaps literally, the Israelite nations, mainly America and Great Britain, will suffer catastrophe and rapidly go into depths of God’s righteous judgement and punishment. This is the beginning of Jacob’s days of prophesied troubles. The Great Tribulation, first punishment on God’s chosen and then on the rest of humanity. Lastly concluding with the appearance of Messiah and His saints and mankind’s last battle of defiance. Then begins restoration which eventually brings peace, prosperity and happiness for all peoples and nations.
Third Period of Redeemed Time — 7 Years for Jesus Christ
Thus far we have examined two distinct periods of time. 7 years for Adam and Eve. 10 years for the Days of Awe. A day for a year. These periods of time originate in the fall and have close association with the Days of Trumpets and the Day of Atonement. These two periods of time total 17 full years.
No question the 17 complete years from year 2001 have been astounding and mind-bending in a scope of negative change. Be it morality, religion, politics, social norms, wars, rumor of wars, greed, lying, cheating, family breakdown and the list could go on. It is hard to imagine but matters are going to get much worse in the remaining years leading to the second coming if Jesus Christ.
This third period of redeemed time has two parts which total a period of 7 full, complete years. The first 3.5 years deal specifically with Jesus Christ and his first coming. His work of redemption and salvation. His suffering, shed blood and resurrection that gives all mankind — past, present and future — an opportunity for everlasting life.
The second part of this 7 years is also 3.5 years in length. This time is for the ministry/work of End Time Two Witnesses found in the Book of Revelation. Two men who stand in for Jesus Christ. Men given power to perform mighty, great miracles and works. They will also deliver Jesus’ End Time message to all mankind. Please review the Two Witnesses study/commentary paper for pertinent and detailed information.
So it is there are 7 full years for Adam and Eve — 2001 thru 2007. Counting full years, fall to fall. 10 full years of awe — 2008 thru 2017, counting from fall to fall.
There are 7 full years for a messiah. Thus there is a total of 24 years. Add 24 years to 2001 takes us to the year 2025.
God claims these 24 years of redeemed time as his own for purpose. This time has His special attention. The Study Paper, Setting a Reasonable Period of Time For the Return of Jesus Christ, gives completion to the possibility for Messiah’s return — the spring of 2031.
Jesus began His ministry in the fall of 27 AD. 1 year for 27, 1 year for 28, 1 year for 29, ½ year from fall of 29 AD to the spring of 30 AD — thus His 3.5 year ministry. Jesus was crucified Wednesday, Nisan/Abid the 15th, Passover. He died about 3PM. He was placed in the tomb around 5-6PM. He was resurrected to life Saturday evening as the day was ending. 3 full days and nights — 72 hours.
Conclusion and Brief Review
These times we live in are truly the last days. We are that generation of destiny. The prophets and apostles of old wrote of these times. The need is to find harmony with the words of Jesus as found in Matthew 24, Mark 13 and Luke 21. The purpose of this study/commentary paper is to put all this information together in a way that explains and supports Jesus’ words, “I have told you all things.” He gave us a detailed outline. Our duty is to think and sort this information and develop a realistic understanding of the end time years. I have done my best to help in this endeavor. Is this effort 100% error-free? I doubt that it is. I pray my errors have not taken away from the basic truth of this matter.
A Prophetic Vision Attributed to George Washington
Note: The following was originally published by Wesley Bradshaw in the National Review, Vol. 4, No. 12, December 1880 (and handed down to me by my grandmother).
The last time I ever saw Anthony Sherman was on July 4, 1859, in Independence Square. He was then 99 years old, and becoming very feeble. But though so old, his dimming eyes rekindled as he gazed upon Independence Hall, which he came to visit once more.
“Let us go into the hall,” he said. “I want to tell you an incident of Washington’s life – one which no one alive knows except myself; and, if you live, you will before long see it verified.
“From the opening of the Revolution we experienced all phases of fortune, now good and now ill; one time victorious and another conquered. The darkest period we had, I think, was when Washington, after several reverses, retreated to Valley Forge, where he resolved to spend the winter of 1777. Ah! I have often seen our dear commander’s careworn cheeks, as he would be conversing with a confidential officer about the condition of his poor soldiers. You have doubtless heard the story of Washington’s going to the thicket to pray. Well, it was not only true, but he used often to pray in secret for aid and comfort from God, the interposition of whose Divine Providence brought us safely through the darkest days of tribulation.
“One day, I remember well, the chilly winds whistled through the leafless trees, though the sky was cloudless and the sun shone brightly, he remained in his quarters nearly all the afternoon alone. When he came out, I noticed that his face was a shade paler than usual, and there seemed to be something on his mind of more than ordinary importance. Returning just after dusk, he dispatched an orderly to the quarters of the officer I mention who was presently in attendance. After a preliminary conversation of about half an hour, Washington, gazing upon his companion with that strange look of dignity, which he alone could command, said to the latter:
“‘I do not know whether it is owing to anxiety of my mind, or what, but this afternoon, as I was sitting at this table engaged in preparing a dispatch, something seemed to disturb me. Looking up, I beheld standing opposite me a singularly beautiful female. So astonished was I, for I had given strict orders not to be disturbed, that it was some moments before I found language to inquire the cause of her presence. A second, a third, and even a fourth time did I repeat my question, but received no answer from my mysterious visitor except a slight raising of her eyes.
“‘Presently I heard a voice saying, “Son of the Republic, look and learn,” while at the same time my visitor extended her arm eastwardly. I now beheld a heavy white vapor at some distance rising fold upon fold. This gradually dissipated, and I looked upon a strange scene. Before me lay spread out in one vast plain all the countries of the world– Europe, Asia, Africa, and America. I saw rolling and tossing between Europe and America, the billows of the Atlantic, and between Asia and America lay the Pacific.
“‘Son of the Republic,” said the same mysterious voice as before, “look and learn.” At that moment I beheld a dark, shadowy being, like an angel, standing, or rather floating, in the hollow air, between Europe and America. Dipping water out of the ocean in the hollow of each hand, he sprinkled some upon America with his right hand while with his left hand he cast some on Europe. Immediately a cloud raised from these countries and joined in mid-ocean. For a while it remained stationary, and then moved slowly westward, until it enveloped America in its murky folds. Sharp flashes of lightning gleamed through it at intervals, and I heard the smothered groans and cries of the American people.
“‘A second time the angel dipped water from the ocean, and sprinkled it out as before. The dark cloud was then drawn back to the ocean, in whose heaving bellows it sank from view. A third time I heard the mysterious voice saying, “Son of the Republic, look and learn.” I cast my eyes upon America and beheld villages and towns and cities springing up one after another until the whole land, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, was dotted with them. Again I heard the mysterious voice say, “Son of the Republic, the end of the century cometh, look and learn.”
“‘At this the dark shadowy angel turned his face southward, and from Africa I saw an ill-omened spectre approach our land. It flitted slowly over every town and city of the latter. The inhabitants presently set themselves in battle array against each other. As I continued looking, I saw a bright angel, on whose brow rested a crown of light, on which was traced the word “Union,” bearing the American flag which he placed between the divided nation, and said, “Remember ye are brethren.” Instantly, the inhabitants casting from them their weapons became friends once more, and united around the National Standard.
“‘And again I heard the mysterious voice saying, “Son of the Republic, look and learn.” At this, the dark, shadowy angel placed a trumpet to his mouth and blew three distinct blasts; and taking water from the ocean, he sprinkled it upon Europe, Asia, and Africa. Then my eyes behold a fearful scene. From each of these countries arose thick, black clouds that were soon joined into one. And throughout this mass, there gleamed a dark red light by which I saw hordes of armed men, who, moving with the cloud, marched by land and sailed by sea to America, which country was enveloped in the volume of cloud. And I dimly saw these vast armies devastate the whole country, and burn the villages, towns, and cities that I beheld springing up.
“‘As my ears listened to the thundering of the cannon, clashing of the swords, and the shouts and cries of millions in mortal combat, I again heard the mysterious voice saying, “Son of the Republic, look and learn.” When the voice had ceased, the dark shadowy angel placed his trumpet once more to his mouth, and blew a long and fearful blast.
“‘Instantly a light as of a thousand suns shone down from above me, and pierced and broke into fragments the dark cloud which enveloped America. At the same moment the angel upon whose head still shone the word “Union,” and who bore our national flag in one hand and a sword in the other, descended from the heavens attended by legions of white spirits. These immediately joined the inhabitants of America, who I perceived were well-nigh overcome, but who immediately taking courage again closed up their broken ranks and renewed the battle. Again, amid the fearful noise of conflict, I heard the mysterious voice saying, “Son of the Republic, look and learn.”
“‘As the voice ceased, the shadowy angel for the last time dipped water from the ocean and sprinkled it upon America. Instantly the dark cloud rolled back, together with the armies it had brought, leaving the inhabitants of the land victorious.
“‘Then once more I beheld the villages, town and cities, springing up where I had seen them before, while the bright angel, planting the azure standard he had brought in the midst of them, cried with a loud voice: “While the stars remain, and the heavens send down dew upon the earth, so long shall the Union last.” And taking from his brow the crown on which was blazoned the word “Union,” he placed it upon the Standard, while the people, kneeling down, said “Amen.”
“‘The scene instantly began to fade and dissolve, and I at last saw nothing but the rising, curling vapor I at first beheld. This also disappearing, I found myself once more gazing upon the mysterious visitor, who in the same voice I had heard before, said, “Son of the Republic, what you have seen is thus interpreted. Three great perils will come upon the Republic. The most fearful is the third.”
“(The comment on his word “third” is: The help against the THIRD peril comes in the shape of Divine assistance; passing which, the whole world united shall not prevail against her. Let every child of the Republic learn to live for his God, his land and Union.)”
“‘With these words the vision vanished, and I started from my seat and felt that I had seen a vision wherein had been shown me the birth, progress, and destiny of the UNITED STATES.”
“Such, my friends,” concluded the venerable narrator, “were the words I heard from Washington’s own lips, and America will do well to profit by them.”