Men of Renown – Part viii – Balaam the Corrupt Priest –

Men of Renown

Part viii

Balaam

There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bare children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown. (Genesis 6:4) And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. (Genesis 6:5)

---

   This series called Men of Renown will begin with these verses in Chapter 6 of the book of Genesis because it is the perfect scene setter for whatever and whoever follows that enables men of renown to act in conflict against God and His Word. Genesis 6 verses 4 and 5 are an accurate definition of men of renown.

   The phrase ‘men of renown’ occurs in the Bible only two times. The second and last mention can be found in the 4th book of the Pentateuch in the book of Numbers, Chapter 16. This last mention of ‘men of renown’ goes beyond the definition of men of renown and expands what ‘men of renown’ are not only capable of, but what lurks in the inner most recesses of their thoughts.

   Although most readers will probably not begin with Men of Renown Part i, ii, iii, iv and v, I suggest that to get more from this particular article about Balaam, Part viii, you should first read Balaam Part vi, and maybe vii. But that’s just my suggestion . . . what do I know? I’m willing to pretend that you have read all the  previous articles. 

---

Balaam

— The Places of Sacrifice —

The First Place Selected to Offer Sacrifices

•  the high places of Baal •

And it came to pass on the morrow, that Balak took Balaam, and brought him up into the high places of Baal, that thence he might see the utmost part of the people. (Numbers 22:41)

And Balaam said unto Balak, Build me here seven altars, and prepare me here seven oxen and seven rams. (Numbers 23:1)

And Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bullock and a ram. (Numbers 23:2)

    This ecclesiastical corrupt prophet selected the place to set up seven altars to offer sacrifices to what Balaam foolishly imagined God wanted. And Balaam said unto Balak, Build me here seven altars, and prepare me here seven oxen and seven rams. (Numbers 23:1) There were three places that Balak took Balaam. The first was the foundation of all false worship: the worship of Baal. Baal means ‘lord,’ ‘master,’ and ‘owner.’ There is another meaning connected to ownership as in a ‘husband’ owning a wife. This is the place that Balaam said, Build me here. Here on the foundation of Baal was the place that Balaam built his priesthood. As a corrupt prophet and now as a corrupt priest . . . Balaam and Baal would lord it over the people as masters. It was here where the people would become joined together as one (as in marriage) with the personification of evil and evil itself. This was the first place chosen to sacrifice, and this is the foundation of all false worship.

 

The Second Place Selected to Offer Sacrifices

• the field of Zophim, to the top of Pisgah •

   When God ignored their altars and their sacrifices, they perceived that it was because  God  did not approve of their venue, therefore, they sought out another location. How clever . . . and how blindly stupid was their refusal to see.

And Balak said unto him, Come, I pray thee, with me unto another place, from whence thou mayest see them: thou shalt see but the utmost part of them, and shalt not see them all: and curse me them from thence.  (Numbers 23:13)

And he brought him into the field of Zophim, to the top of Pisgah, and built seven altars, and offered a bullock and a ram on every altar. (Numbers 23:14)

   The message in this new venue to us (in the Age of the Church) should be to recognize the many ways that enemies’ employ to weaken the gospel message. Balak and Balaam journeyed to the field of Zophim, at the top of Pisgah. The meaning of Zophim means ‘watchmen,’ and Pisgah means ‘to survey.’ Also, the field in Scripture mostly denotes the world. It was the Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 13:38 that we see this definition in his parable of the sower. The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one. Alright then . . . what is the spiritual lesson in this second location in Numbers 23:14? After Satan set his foundation on Baal and on all his gods, then he brings the world into play. The world is brought into the Church through the ‘watchmen’ who supposedly have the spiritual welfare and charge over the things of God in the Church, but they crept in deceitfully to overcome and to overthrow the people and children of God. This was not all, and this is not all. Why is the top of Pisgah mentioned here after Zophim, after ‘watchmen?’ These custodians and sentinels set themselves over the people of God as prophets and priests, and as they survey their charges it is from the top, as ‘lords,’ ‘masters,’ and ‘owners’ of all that they survey. The Holy Spirit of God openly lays before us through His Word the agenda, and the battle plan of all the enemies of God. We just need to be made aware of the battle plan. The problem was (for Israel) and for us (Christians) that they did not see they were in a spiritual battle, and neither do we (Christians) understand the intensity of our spiritual battle today for our very eternal existence.

For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.  (Jude 1:4)

And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: (Galatians 2:4)

They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.  (Titus 1:16)

The Third and Final Place Selected to Offer Sacrifices

• the top of Peor, that looketh toward Jeshimon •

And Balak brought Balaam unto the top of Peor, that looketh toward Jeshimon. (Numbers 23:28)

   Peor means ‘the opening’ facing Jeshimon, ‘the wilderness.’ Why would ‘the opening’ that faced ‘the wilderness’ be the final place that this corrupt prophet (in the role of priest) and wicked governments are seen coupled and unified together and at the top Peor looking toward the wilderness? This reference is a prophetic view of the end of Balak and Balaam in their collective, but futile attempts to destroy God and His people in the book of the Revelation of Jesus Chris. The end of mankind, his governments, his religions, and his sin entrenched nature is destroyed and overcome by the Lord Jesus Christ in the last earth battle known as Armageddon.

And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army.  (Revelation 19:19)

And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. (Revelation 19:20)

And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh.  (Revelation 19:21)

   There is much more to be seen through And Balak brought Balaam unto the top of Peor, that looketh toward Jeshimon. (Numbers 23:28) It was here at Peor that Israel trespassed against God. Satan used the woman called Cozbi to open an avenue of sexual perversion to set back Israel’s advance into the promised land. The enemy is ALWAYS looking for an opening where he can further gain the advantage against God. Once Satan moves through an opening he never retreats. Peor is mentioned five times in Scripture, four of the five references are directly associated with the tragedy that occurred in Israel where many died in the wilderness over the matter of BaalPeor.

And Balak brought Balaam unto the top of Peor, that looketh toward Jeshimon. (Numbers 23:28)

For they vex you with their wiles, wherewith they have beguiled you in the matter of Peor, and in the matter of Cozbi, the daughter of a prince of Midian, their sister, which was slain in the day of the plague for Peor’s sake. (Numbers 25:18)

Behold, these caused the children of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to commit trespass against the LORD in the matter of Peor, and there was a plague among the congregation of the LORD. (Numbers 31:16)

[Is] the iniquity of Peor too little for us, from which we are not cleansed until this day, although there was a plague in the congregation of the LORD, (Joshua 22:17)

   It is very fitting that at this last location where Balak and Balaam constructed altars and sacrificed that it was at an ‘opening’ to the ‘wilderness.’ The spiritual significance was not only directed toward Satan’s target, but it also reveals the death blow to all that is of Satan. He faces the opening of a great gulf, an abyss, a chasm of endless torture, a black hole of ceaseless torment, and justly so, for he has destroyed peoples, kingdoms, nations, and the souls of mankind. He is destined to be sealed throughout eternity in a burning wilderness of his own making.

Balaam

— The Corrupt and Self-Proclaimed Priest —

And Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bullock and a ram. (Numbers 23:2)

   This was mankind attempting to institute their own form of a ritualistic sham called worship. The seven altars, and the seven bullocks, and the seven rams were just a showman’s staging to make himself the center of authority. This is religious man. It is always about man. Balaam would have made a very wealthy and popular television evangelist, but better than a phony television performer Balaam would have made a great Hollywood producer and director. What an imagination! God never required Balaam to offer up any sacrifices. God’s words were clear and precise. Balaam was to speak only what God told him to say — nothing more and nothing less! He was not to do anything, build anything, accomplish anything, or perform any action — just speak.

And God came unto Balaam at night, and said unto him, If the men come to call thee, rise up, and go with them; but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do. (Numbers 22:20)

And the angel of the LORD said unto Balaam, Go with the men: but only the word that I shall speak unto thee, that thou shalt speak. So Balaam went with the princes of Balak. (Numbers 22:35)

   God sent Balaam to be a voice, not a personality, nor a priest to offer up sacrifices, but a voice. The Almighty God had already instituted His own earthly priesthood in Aaron, in His own people, Israel. And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel. (Exodus 19:6) Balaam was to be a voice to Israel’s enemies, the nations around Israel. God’s message was to be given to a particular people for a particular reason. A corrupt evil people would hear a message from God through a corrupt and evil prophet. God had untied the vocal cords of a beast of burden in an ass in Chapter 2, and His message would be heard by a world burdened with sin through the vocal cords of a beast of a man named Balaam, but Balaam didn’t want to be just a voice. He desired to be a showman prophet, and a priest of great authority with an ostentatious presence.

   These two men (Balak and Balaam) united together were a type of government favoring corrupt religious systems and let us take into consideration they were also foreshadowers of the two to come as documented in Revelation who influenced and forced the people of the world to worship Satan, also known as ‘the dragon’ and ‘the Beast.’ At the end time, there will be two individuals (the false prophet) and (the beast) who serve the Greater Beast. Balaam (the false prophet and beastlike religionist) and Balak (beastly governmental enforcer) worshiped AT the location of Baal worship, thus, drawing the people into their delusion of approved worship. The spirit of evil is shown clearly in the spirit of Balaam and Balak and connects to the following references.

And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs [come] out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. (Revelation 16:13)

And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. (Revelation 19:20)

And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet [are], and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. (Revelation 20:10)

  Balaam was not of Israel, and although Balak was a Moabite (a descendant of Lot) he, like Balaam, had no place in Israel. Both men were outside of the Laws of Israel concerning sacrifices and offerings that God had established with Israel. So why then could not Balaam and Balak sacrifice in any way and in any method of their choosing?

And this [is] the law of the sacrifice of peace offerings, which he shall offer unto the LORD. (Leviticus 7:11)

This [is] the law of the burnt offering, of the meat offering, and of the sin offering, and of the trespass offering, and of the consecrations, and of the sacrifice of the peace offerings; (Leviticus 7:37)

   Although these Laws of sacrifice and offerings were directed for Israel and to Israel, they all pointed to the future fulfillment of the Greater Sacrifice and Offering in Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary. So why then could not Balaam and Balak sacrifice in any way and in any method of their choosing? They could, but it is not about the choice of one’s action. It is about whether or not God ACCEPTS the choice and action. Remember that the principles in Chapter 1 of the book of Romans and Chapter 4 of the book of Genesis cover this — the issue of what God’s accepts and what God rejects. Cain offered up his sacrifice, but God rejected it, He refused to accept it because it was not what He had directed and what He approved. It’s not what YOU think about your sacrifice and offering, it’s not about how YOU want to worship, it’s not about where YOU want to worship, it’s not about what YOU worship because it is NOT about YOU at all. It is all about HIM. It is about what God accepts. It is about what God wants. It is about what God has said in His Word. Stay with me. See how the story of Balaam is expanded and supersized by the Holy Spirit of God through the Word of God. (We are just beginning on our journey into this corrupt prophet and evil priest, so take a break, get a glass of water and a snack and return — you have nothing to lose since you are not doing anything anyway!)

   Let us continue the thought of what God accepts in worship first through the New Testament. The Lord Jesus Christ journeyed from Israel to Samaria for a specific reason, and for a specific person: the woman at the well. (Yes, again, this will connect to Balaam.)

Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. (John 4:21)

Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. (John 4:22)

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. (John 4:23)

God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)

   How did these people of Samaria become so far removed from the true God, the Almighty God, Jehovah God, and their Creator God that they didn’t even know what or who they worshiped? (Ye worship ye know not what.) Time travel back with me through a compressed basic summary of the history of Samaria and Israel through the following side note. (Yes, this will connect to Balaam.)

Side Note: The nation of Israel divided without experiencing a civil war. The southern section of Israel became known as Judah (with only two tribes: Benjamin and Judah) under the reign of Solomon’s son, Rehoboam. The northern section splintered away from the southern section and became known as Israel (with the ten remaining tribes) under the control of a usurper called Jeroboam. This northern section was politically and religiously led by an area known as Samaria.

This brings us to the makeup and history of the Samaritans and their capital city of Samaria. The following verses are a precise history shortened by the Holy Spirit of God in 2^nd Kings Chapter 17. Samaria had been overcome and taken into slavery by Babylon. The protocol of conquering nations in that time line was to remove the best of the people (first removed was royalty and aristocrats then the next to be removed were tradesmen and skilled labors) into other regions that the conquers possessed and leave the uneducated and unskilled and what we would call ‘the basest of people’ in their land. Added to this removal policy, victors also mixed other cultures (that they had enslaved) into a newly captured area. This guaranteed the inability of what remained in the conquered land to rise up, unite, and rebel against their conquerors.

Side Note of a Side Note: Immigration Policy —Deportation — or reverse removal policy. This is part of the thinking around the immigration policies of nations in our current age. Flood nations with people of different cultures, the uneducated, and those with low intelligence levels that can be easily controlled and manipulated and within a short period of time, nations will become upended by this reverse protocol of installing the basest of people instead of removing the best of people, and also by adding numerous conflicting cultures just adds to confusion and the clash of cultures which certainly guarantees their inability to unite. A divided people that cannot unite cannot fight against their oppressors. This is the immigration policy of the United States of America. (Also known as the Disunited States of America.)

   As with all kingdoms, the cycle of victors and losers rolls over and over. The history of Assyria is too vast to tackle here, therefore, briefly stated: Assyria conquered Samaria and the ten northern tribes and became the controller of the immigration policy over Samaria — consequently the name of this northern territory would no longer be called ‘Israel,’ but it would be known as Samaria. (It is also very helpful for victors to remove historical names, and to change and remove all connections to a previous point of patriotism or national loyalty.) Many years later, after territorial battles, treason among royal blood, murders, assassinations, upheaval upon upheaval, Assyria diminished in power, and Babylon ruled over much of the Assyrian nations and lands. The two tribes of the southern kingdom (Judah) were conquered by Babylon and taken into captivity. Consequently, the northern kingdom of Israel never returned to their land (and they became known as the lost tribes of Israel). (The books of Ezra and Nehemiah, however, record the history of Judah’s return to their land from Babylon.) The following references from the book of 2^nd Kings are a concise summary of Israel conquered by Assyria.

Until the LORD removed Israel out of his sight, as he had said by all his servants the prophets. So was Israel carried away out of their own land to Assyria unto this day. (2^nd Kings 17:23) 

And the king of Assyria brought men from Babylon, and from Cuthah, and from Ava, and from Hamath, and from Sepharvaim, and placed them in the cities of Samaria instead of the children of Israel: and they possessed Samaria, and dwelt in the cities thereof. (2^nd Kings 17:24) 

And so it was at the beginning of their dwelling there, that they feared not the LORD: therefore the LORD sent lions among them, which slew some of them. (2^nd Kings 17:25) 

Wherefore they spake to the king of Assyria, saying, The nations which thou hast removed, and placed in the cities of Samaria, know not the manner of the God of the land: therefore he hath sent lions among them, and, behold, they slay them, because they know not the manner of the God of the land. (2^nd Kings 17:26) 

Then the king of Assyria commanded, saying, Carry thither one of the priests whom ye brought from thence; and let them go and dwell there, and let him teach them the manner of the God of the land. (2^nd Kings 17:27) 

Then one of the priests whom they had carried away from Samaria came and dwelt in Bethel, and taught them how they should fear the LORD. (2^nd Kings 17:28) 

Howbeit every nation made gods of their own, and put them in the houses of the high places which the Samaritans had made, every nation in their cities wherein they dwelt. (2^nd Kings 17:29) 

And the men of Babylon made Succothbenoth, and the men of Cuth made Nergal, and the men of Hamath made Ashima, (2^nd Kings 17:30)

And the Avites made Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burnt their children in fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim. (2^nd Kings 17:31)

So they feared the LORD, and made unto themselves of the lowest of them priests of the high places, which sacrificed for them in the houses of the high places. (2^nd Kings 17:32) 

They feared the LORD, and served their own gods, after the manner of the nations whom they carried away from thence.  (2^nd Kings 17:33) 

Unto this day they do after the former manners: they fear not the LORD, neither do they after their statutes, or after their ordinances, or after the law and commandment which the LORD commanded the children of Jacob, whom he named Israel;  (2^nd Kings 17:34) 

With whom the LORD had made a covenant, and charged them, saying, Ye shall not fear other gods, nor bow yourselves to them, nor serve them, nor sacrifice to them:  (2^nd Kings 17:35)

Side Note of a Side Note: Where are the lost tribes of Israel? What happened to them? Where did they go? Do not be taken in by the fallacy that somewhere hidden away in caves, or on mountain tops, or in thick jungles are the lost tribes of Israel. Many even carry this ridiculous idea that England is really the lost tribes of Israel. Really? (Yes, this will connect to Balaam). They were never lost. They were dispersed. God used Assyria to fulfill His Word. When you study these ten tribes you will learn that from beginning to end, from the most northern part to its southern border, it was a land given over to idolatry and evilness. All the ruling dynasties of Israel were evil without exception, especially the Zidonian princess, Jezebel who ruled with her husband Ahab over the ten tribes.

   God has spoken many times of what the end of these ten tribes (Israel) would come to. What God speaks — He accomplishes. These ten tribes were so scattered, that they ceased to collectively exist as a organized unit, but individually they would still be members of a distinct tribe. What God destroys; He pulverizes. When He said that He will give them up, He meant it. (Yes, this will connect to Balaam.) The following references are just four sentences to show that God’s wrath is not negotiable. Therefore the LORD will cut off from Israel head and tail, branch and rush, in one day. (Isaiah 9:14)

The ancient and honourable, he is the head; and the prophet that teacheth lies, he is the tail. (Isaiah 9:15)

For the leaders of this people cause them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed. (Isaiah 9:16)

Therefore the Lord shall have no joy in their young men, neither shall have mercy on their fatherless and widows: for every one is an hypocrite and an evildoer, and every mouth speaketh folly. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand is stretched out still. (Isaiah 9:17)

A nation of ten tribes, and thousands of people, is really nothing compared to a world that was destroyed through the universal flood where only Noah and seven other souls survived. This is what happened to the ten tribes of Israel! (However, this is not the end of the story of the ten lost tribes, but for the sake of distraction, I can only simply leave you with some verses for your personal study. Jeremiah 30:3, 16:15; Amos 9:14-15; Rev. 7:5-8) The key is in their return to the land as individuals and families, but not as a collective unit, however, two tribes never return to the land: Ephraim and Dan. (Revelation 7:5-8)

   The Samaritans, as all mixed and confused peoples and territories, intermingled the knowledge of God with the worship of many gods. And the men of Babylon made Succothbenoth, and the men of Cuth made Nergal, and the men of Hamath made Ashima, (2^nd Kings 17:30) And the Avites made Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burnt their children in fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim. (2^nd Kings 17:31) Do not think for one moment that your understanding of Christianity has not been influenced by the merging and the hybridism of other gods and other religions through centuries of infiltration by men posing as being of God. So they feared the LORD, and made unto themselves of the lowest of them priests of the high places, which sacrificed for them in the houses of the high places. (2^nd Kings 17:32) They feared the LORD, and served their own gods, after the manner of the nations whom they carried away from thence. (2^nd Kings 17:33) It has been more than two thousand years since the birth of the Church flowed from the open wounded side of our Savior Jesus Christ. In two thousand years there have been thousands of false prophets, and thousands of evil men posing as priests of God who have infiltrated into His Church and who (posing as ministers of righteousness) have changed the course of the church from a Church possessed by the Holy Spirit of God to a professing church without the Spirit of God. Although the church has seemingly been divided and the course changed, the True Church has never divided, nor has it changed because it was born not only from the side of our wounded Savior, but it has been kept by the power of God. (Yes, this will connect to Balaam.)

Side Note: The True Church – Built on Immoveable Rock – Built on the Supernatural Man called The Rock. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (Matthew 16:18) And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone. (John 1:42) These two references reveal how mankind twists and turns the Word of God into making mankind the focal point instead of God being the center point of all. No man could ever be the Institutor of the Church. No man could ever be the Keeper of the Church. No man could ever be the Head of the Church. No man could ever be the Voice of the Church. No man can be the agent, or substitute for God, or the vicar of God. This is complete heresy. Why? It is Christ, and Christ ALONE and ONLY who is the Church. Christ sent His Spirit in the Comforter to be His presence in the world and in the Church.

And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all [things] he might have the preeminence. (Colossians 1:18)

Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church: (Colossians 1:24)

The Lord Jesus Christ renamed Simon the son of Jona, and called Simon Cephas, which means A stone. A stone is but a little part of a ROCK. A stone is a small piece of a ROCK, a tiny little pebble. A stone is also a type of a weight, or a type of measurement, as the weight of a man. A stone is not a ROCK. The Lord affirmed in Matthew 16:18 That thou art Peter — that thou art a stone. And upon this rock I will build my church. Upon Himself (this rock) He would build HIS Church. Christ has many titles, one of which He is known as THE ROCK. And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. (1^st Corinthians 10:4) This is a very basic summary of Christ being the Head of the Church, and not Peter. Peter was/is a part of the Church, as all Christians are part of the Church. The concept of clergy and laity is a LIE, a myth, a distraction from the truth. But the people, however, love to have it so. 

A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; (Jeremiah 5:30) The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof? (Jeremiah 5:31)

I have set many teeth on edge, and those who fight against this truth, I write . . . it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. (Yes, this will connect to Balaam.) There is much more yet to be added to this side note regarding Christ as the only Institutor, the only Initiator, the only Preserver, and the only Power of the Church, and over the Church. ♦ End of Side Note – The True Church.

Side Note of a Side Note: Religion versus Christianity. Religions become durable and popular when they are wrapped in silk and satin, ermine and jewels. Then there are religions that flourish when they are wrapped in just the opposite: coarse and harsh clothing, and to strength this false image of humility and poverty, these religionists project words of hatred and violence, but under this façade you will usually find silk and satin, ermine and jewels. Then there are also religions swathed in common colorful textiles chanting love and peace by lowly devotees, nevertheless, follow the money trail, it will lead to silk and satin, ermine and jewels. Religions are very identical in that the outward visibility will reflect the framed message, but the hidden agenda, and the surreptitious framers live by the gullibility of their followers. This is religion, and there is a religion designed for every appetite and inclination. This may explain why religionists prefer religions and not Christianity because religion is all about expanding RELIGION, and Christianity is ALL ABOUT Jesus Christ. It is about centering on His Person, His Sacrifice, His Perfection, His Redemptive Accomplishment, His Power, His Goodness, His Greatness, His Omniscience, His Priestly Acts, and His Word. The word ‘Christianity’ begins with the word ‘Christ,’ it is not Churchianity, nor is it about Christians . . . so sorry . . . you thought that ‘Christianity’ was about us, Christians, well . . . it’s not. Tragically, church goers actually know very little about Jesus Christ. One of the many reasons that this has happened is that many church goers ARE NOT SAVED! Thanks to men like Balaam who have infiltrated seminaries, and church boards, and church pulpits, the pew sitters have been fed from garbage trucks. ♦ End of  Side Note of a Side Note: Religion versus Christianity.

   Do not take the lessons and messages from the Holy Spirit of God concerning Balaam as irrelevant and only for ages past because Balaam is very popular and active in the spiritual realm of our age. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places]. (Ephesians 6:12)

   Great men of renown (as Balaam) need an audience. Men who believe that they are great will create an audience, but God doesn’t want great men, He wants men to obey Him. Does not this remind you of the last Old Testament priest who presented the Lamb of God, the True Sacrifice to the nation of Israel? He must increase, but I must decrease. (John 3:30) This was said by an Old Testament prophet and priest living in the age of the New Testament — John the Baptist. He connected the Old with the New, he connected everything that preceded with all that would follow, he was the link that God used to introduce HIS LINK (Christ Jesus) between Himself and mankind. This man of the wilderness was a true voice prepared to introduce the Lord Jesus Christ not only as the Lamb that taketh away the sin of the world, but John (the true earthly unrecognized legitimate high priest) presented to the nation of Israel and to the world The True High Priest Christ Jesus. As John was not recognized as the earthly priest of Israel, so also, Christ was also not recognized as Prophet, Priest and King.

Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. (John 3:28)

He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. (John 3:29)

He must increase, but I must decrease. (John 3:30)

He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. (John 3:31)

   This is the right place to write about false religions in this section of Balaam, an ecclesiastical corrupt prophet pretending that he had the right to be a priest to offer up sacrifices to God. However, God the Holy Spirit has provided us with all that we need to understand the qualifications and the ministry of priesthood, both earthly and heavenly.

   In Balaam we see how easy it is for the world to accept a false ecclesiastically corrupt prophet, and not only in the office of a prophet, but also as a self-made priest. The fickleness of an insane world loves to attach itself to ANY religion / or cult that advertises a new shiny soiled spirituality. This ecclesiastical corrupt prophet and priest is ONE of TWO Old Testament personalities that is mentioned in the last book of the Bible — The Book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ. Who are these two Old Testament people? Jezebel and Balaam. 

The Spirit of Balaam

— In the Church Age —

  Repetition is very important; therefore, I repeat, for the benefit of those who have been influenced to believe that the Old Testament is archaic and antiquated.  It is not. Archaic refers to a past age and antiquated implies to not being suitable for the current age. The Scriptures can never be archaic because it not time based, and it is far from being antiquated because it is a living breathing unchanging document preserved by the Holy Spirit of God. The Scriptures can never be antiquated not only because it speaks with the Voice of timelessness, and the Voice of Eternity, but it is relevant for ALL races, ALL peoples, and ALL hearts.

   The Bible is presented in two sections, thus, in the number two, it is the witness of God not only to the whole of mankind, but it is a witness of God Himself to His earthly people (Israel), and it also is a witness of Himself to His heavenly people, the Church. The Bible can neither be divided, nor separated. In being two, it is one. Again, and again, I repeat, what is brought out in the Old Testament is fulfilled in the New Testament. A Christian is not defined by a book, but by a Person, and this Person is the Lord Jesus Christ.

Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. (Galatians 3:21)

But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. (Galatians 3:22)

But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. (Galatians 3:23)

Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. (Galatians 3:24)

But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. (Galatians 3:25)

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:26)

For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (Galatians 3:27)

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:28)

And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Galatians 3:29)

   Why did the Holy Spirit of God include Balaam, an Old Testament personality, in the New Testament, but even more interesting, Balaam is placed in Chapter 2 of the book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ in the third church mentioned in the seven churches? Connect this type of religious opportunist with the last mention of the name of Balaam, which just happens coincidentally to pop up in the last book of the Bible in the third Church called Pergamos. By the way there is no such thing as coincidence when it comes to the Word of God.

   Within mankind there is an evil that betrays itself through various forms and activities. What we first observed in Balaam in Numbers Chapter 22, he is further added to in Numbers Chapter 23, and further enlarged in the book of Jude, and the spirit of Balaam culminates in the book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ Chapter 2, verses 12 thru 17. Before exploring further into Numbers 23, I believe that this would be the correct time to skip over many references about Balaam in the Old Testament and proceed to Revelation in the New Testament.

And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; (Revelation 2:12)

I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. (Revelation 2:13)

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. (Revelation 2:14)

So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. (Revelation 2:15)

Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. (Revelation 2:16)

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. (Revelation 2:17)

  Why would I insert this section in Revelation Chapter 2 at this particular point in this article? Here is the connection: but Balaam didn’t want to be just a voice. He desired to be a showman prophet, and a priest of great authority with an ostentatious presence. In Numbers Chapter 23, the first thing that the Holy Spirit of God reveals to us is that Balaam not only selected the place of sacrifice, BUT that he also offered up sacrifices WITH Balak. The corrupt PROPHET and the evil KING both acted in the role as PRIESTS. And Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bullock and a ram. (Numbers 23:2) Yes, this is a very important issue.

The Doctrine of Balaam

— In the Church Age —

   Amazing isn’t it that doctrine should emerge from corruption, but that is exactly what the Holy Spirit of God tells us. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. (Revelation 2:14) Read slowly Revelation 2:12 thru 17. Let us proceed verse by verse in Chapter 2, verses 12 -17.

And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; (Revelation 2:12)

   As many already understand that the seven churches in Revelation are both historical and prophetical. (To those who follow these articles please always be aware of those who read may not have any background teaching of the Bible, while others may be extremely acquainted with the principles and teachings in Scripture.) These seven churches existed in time, and some continue to exist side by side today. This is the beauty of the Word of God: that the past touches our hands passing on its knowledge of God and the truth within His Word.

   The church IN Pergamos existed approximately from 300 A.D. to 425 A. D. (I refuse to use the new, approved, and politically correct, BUT wrong time definitions that the haters of God are trying to force on us; therefore, it is A.D. In the year of our Lord: anno Domini.) This time frame from 300 to 425 came after the doctrinal formative years of the young church. In Pergamos we have two doctrines mentioned, the doctrine of Balaam and the doctrine of the Nicolaitans. First in the formative early church, the appeal from the writers to Christians was to keep ‘sound doctrine.’

That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (Ephesians 4:14)

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; (2^nd Timothy 4:3)

Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. (Titus 1:9)

But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: (Titus 2:1)

In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, (Titus 2:7)

Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. (1^st Timothy 4:13)

   During the age of the church in Pergamos the early pleas from Paul, Titus, Timothy and Peter to hold fast to sound doctrine was no longer faithfully followed. The ignorance of not following sound doctrine didn’t just occur overnight and suddenly appear in 300 A. D. That is why the warning to always be aware of the problems within the infant church took a back seat to the praises of the church. Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. (1^st Timothy 4:13) Timothy emphasized reading, exhortation, and doctrine because they had the New Testament in their hands in parchments and shared these precious rolls and sections of parchments between themselves. First the responsibility of the Christians in the infant Church was to READ. (Christians in our age find reading laborious and tedious while holding a single bound volume in their hands.) Next, they were to LISTEN to lessons, preaching, and messages based on sound doctrine – Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. (Titus 1:9) Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. (2^nd Timothy 4:2) Finally, they were to understand doctrine. How could they understand? BY READING. How would they know the truth of what they heard through exhortation? BY READING. First, and foremost, they (and us) need to READ for our own understanding so that we can stand up against harmful and false speeches, sermons and teaching. Every Christian was and is responsible for KNOWING the Word of God for themselves.

  The budding church (in the age of the writers of the New Testament) was consistently warned of what was happening at THAT time in the church. False teachers, false doctrines, corrupt practices, divisiveness in following after various teachers, carnal and sexual conduct, undisciplined behavior in church meetings, allowing Judaistic rituals and rules to negate Christian principles were just a few of the problems that the epistles to the Ephesians, Galatians, Corinthians, Colossians centered on. Every epistle contained warnings of certain areas of doctrine that was being attacked, and each epistle became a ministry for correction because error was already appallingly evident.

   The pre-Constantine church was a Church fighting to maintain the purity of the sanctuary, the truth of the Godhead bodily, the untarnished written Word of God, the rights of each Christian as priests of God, and to counter the secularized attack against righteousness. The violent physical attacks from without were constant, and the attacks from within tried to strip away the newfound liberties in Christ. As the battle progressed, as in all things, time diminishes the urgency of the need to fight, and as decades pass even the comprehension that there is a battle is forgotten, consequently the battle ground is softened and prepared for the next attack wave. And the next attack against the Church surfaced in the reign of Constantine. The Church married the state and became subject to the control of the state. (Centuries later the state became subservient to the church, and we passed into what we call ‘the dark ages.’) The primary ruling force during the Age of Darkness (The Dark Ages) was the church. (See the connection?) Try to remember that WE are surrounded by two distinct forms of churches — one church IN NAME ONLY (the counterfeit Church), and other Church maintained and preserved by the Holy Spirit of God. 

   Pergamos means ‘much marriage.’ This meaning alone could probably be the subject of a book. This city was at that time (300 – 425) noted for its idolatry (its excessive pagan temples drew followers from all over the known world) art, and literature: boasting of a library second to the library in Alexandria. Idolatry, art and literature were first conceived and developed by the children of Cain.  And ‘much marriage’ linked this church at Pergamos with the world because during this time frame church discipline declined, hypocritical professors abounded, worship of relics, martyrs and saints increased, religious images and art within the sanctuary undermined the principles of Christianity, and the element of an exclusive appointed priesthood also married with superstition and magical rites celebrated through great pomp and ceremony. Also, the bonds of sexual pleasures and pressures held this church IN Pergamos to share a bed with the world that had crept in and surreptitiously formed the early church doctrines, beliefs, and its creeds. It was here at this ‘much married’ place that Balaam’s doctrine thrived. If you want to understand how early erroneous church doctrines first became intrenched into the church, then Pergamos would be a good place to begin.

Side Note: The Reshaping of the Church through social and political forces. During the transitional era of a Church caught between a time of rejection and violent opposition, and a time of acceptance and the liberty to worship God freely was an era of great danger to the purity of the Church. This was the age of Constantine the Great. His influence, reforms and edicts during his reign over the Roman Empire are still felt to this very day and moment, not only in the political world, but especially in the age of Church TODAY.

  History is beyond important, especially biblical history, and yet, many are vastly ignorant of both world history and biblical history. Constantine was a ruler whose military, personal and religious actions were based on troubling paradoxes. He is still revered by many, disliked by many, misquoted by many, misunderstood by many, and unknown by many. Although I find Constantine extremely interesting, I cannot, and must not, become distracted by writing much more about him, but I must remain centered on the article at hand. Constantine was the ruler during the era of the church in Pergamos in Revelation Chapter 2. He also was a person of opportunity (as Balaam). Constantine is wrongly considered the first Christian Emperor, but when anyone worships the gods of the heathen and the God of Christianity then something is wrong with their understanding of salvation and redemption. His genius came not only through his military victories, but he also covered all of his options when he dealt with religion. He had one knee at the altar of Baal, and the other knee at the altar in a Christian setting. His shrewdness was revealed when he took charge over the best of both worlds: the world of paganism and the world of a newly realized force called Christianity. ♦ End of Side Note: The Reshaping of the Church through social and political forces.

   There were two doctrines mentioned in Pergamos, and they both are related to our Old Testament corrupt ecclesiastical prophet and priest: Balaam.

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. (Revelation 2:14)

So hast thou also them that hold  the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. (Revelation 2:15)

   It is here that many readers will click off and pull a warm blanket over their heads because they think that I am about to gore their ox, or grind into powder their golden calf. And I am!

   The first doctrine recorded in Pergamos is the doctrine of Balaam. The second doctrine is the doctrine of the Nicolaitans. God through the Holy Spirit clearly expresses Himself, which thing I hate. And yes, they are related to each other.

   The doctrine of Balaam is the technique of war that uses the infiltration system. Since Balaam knew that he could never overcome the words of God, but that he had to speak the messages from God, he sought a way AROUND the Word of God. (Now that was a move that would make politicians proud.) Balaam advised Balak to openly and brazenly send women into Israel’s camp.

And Israel abode in Shittim, and the people began to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab. (Numbers 25:1)

And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods. (Numbers 25:2)

And Israel joined himself unto Baalpeor: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel.  (Numbers 25:3)

Behold, these caused the children of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to commit trespass against the LORD in the matter of Peor, and there was a plague among the congregation of the LORD.  (Numbers 31:16)

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, (Numbers 25:16)

Vex the Midianites, and smite them:  (Numbers 25:17)

For they vex you with their wiles, wherewith they have beguiled you in the matter of Peor, and in the matter of Cozbi, the daughter of a prince of Midian, their sister, which was slain in the day of the plague for Peor’s sake.  (Numbers 25:18)

   This military and religious strategy of using sex to overcome a nation doesn’t take much time, not even one generation. Whether it is through marriage, or mixing, or whatever you want to call it, this infiltration agenda works. In less than one generation, national heritage can cease to exist. During WW II, the German military encouraged and promoted their policy of raping scores of women in many Italian villages, and also of other territories that Germany conquered to change the national identities, and their physical characteristics, hoping to consequently make their subjects more Nordic-Aryan to fit into their German scheme of Nazism.

   The doctrine of Balaam in the Church used Balaam’s advice to surreptitiously penetrate and change the very foundation that the church was built on. In war, the battlefield must first be prepared. In this early church of ‘much marriage’ the Balaams the battle ground had previously softened by preceding churches, such as in the church in Ephesus and the church in Smyrna.

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. (Revelation 2:14)

   The doctrine of Balaam (in the early church) not only encouraged but approved of sexual sins, and fornication stands out as a sin that tested the Corinthian church. Many excuse these acts as acts of the newly converted from paganism to Christianity. However, the Spirit of God writes (through the apostle Paul) the difference between being in the Spirit and being in the flesh.

Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying. (2^nd Corinthians 12:19)

For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: (2^nd Corinthians 12:20)

And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.  (2^nd Corinthians 12:21)

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, (Galatians 5:19)

But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;  (Ephesians 5:3)

It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father’s wife. (1^st Corinthians 5:1) And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you. (1^st Corinthians 5:2) And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you. (1^st Corinthians 5:2)

   The doctrine of Balaam was not only successful in the early church, but it has gone full bloom in our current church age. The Balaams in our age speak of ‘judge not and ‘throwing stones,’ not to encourage truth, but to hinder truth. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? (1^st Corinthians 5:12) This still remains an unresolved issue in our age, that the church refuses to discern their duty and responsibility to discipline within their own ranks, as it is quite evident by pedophile priests not being held accountable for their heinous acts against the young, but this is only one issue that needs to be judged from within.

   The doctrine of Balaam also promoted the infusion of paganism into a holy setting. With Israel, it was Balaam who advanced the idea to get the Israelites to attend their pagan sacrifices, and to join in with the Moabites in their celebrations. First, notice that it was to the sacrifices of their gods, then it advanced to a form of fellowship in eating and the people ate, and then success . . . they bowed down to their gods.

And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods. (Numbers 25:2)

  The doctrine of Balaam involved the ultimate unification agenda in overcoming the enemy, which in this case, was the battle against the people of God. Do not think that this (joining in the sacrifices of the unsaved, and yea, more than the unsaved, but joining in with the world in their worship) does not apply to us today. IT IS for US to be aware of whom we are as Christians and WHAT we are (as ambassadors) and WHOM we serve. Just because the concept of sacrificing may have changed in its outward visible form does not mean any and all forms of sacrifice and offerings are according to the precepts of God.

   The following references show more than the action of sacrifice, it reveals that fellowship with others in the act of sacrifice should be understood, and more then this, that by sacrificing you are identifying with the object of the sacrifice. Sacrifice — fellowship — identification, slowly read every word in the following verses. The infant church in Corinth (through participation) had become attached in fellowship and worship of demons.

Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry. (1^st Corinthians 10:14)

I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say. (1^st Corinthians 10:15)

The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? (1^st Corinthians 10:16)

For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread. (1^st Corinthians 10:17)

Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar? (1^st Corinthians 10:18)

What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing? (1^st Corinthians 10:19)

But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. (1^st Corinthians 10:20)

Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils. (1^st Corinthians 10:21)

Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he? (1^st Corinthians 10:22)

   Although the fashion of the time of the age of the Corinthians has changed, the principle within these verses is unchangeable. Whenever any Christian journeys away from the Person of Christ (and all that His blood and body represent in righteousness, holiness, truth and purity) and ventures into other venues of worship and fellowship then they have joined with, and have become part of, and have identified with demons. Can two walk together, except they be agreed? (Amos 3:3) Since Balaam thought that he could achieve the best of both worlds (the world of religion and the world of politics) many Corinthians also believed that they could straddle Christianity and world religion.

   The church in Pergamos suffered spiritual loss in exchange for temporal gain. The Church never regained what was lost under the reforms and edicts of Constantine, and the Church was forever, and up to this point in time, (even into the Reformation period) under the control of government, man and money. Yes, Pergamos was a marriage made in hell. God’s program for His people (whether Israel or the Church) was always reckoned on a remnant.

Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. (Romans 11:5) 　

Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved: (Romans 9:27) 　

For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, yet a remnant of them shall return: the consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness. (Isaiah 10:22)

   The pre-Constantine church continued on alongside the church that had become joined with the state, but gradually, through the centuries, the truth and purity of the sanctuary of the infant church could not remain joined to the established and accepted church, and this is where I will leave this doctrine of Balaam and continue on to the doctrine of the Nicolaitans.

 

The Doctrine of Balaam

and

— The Doctrine of the Nicolaitans —

   The old rebellion becomes the new respectable program. Aware citizens have become cognizant of old tired failed political policies suddenly becoming fresh and promising policies just by simply applying new descriptive words and phrases to the old program. Gas shortages are now called ‘broken system links.’ Food shortages are now called ‘stalled transportation issues.’ A bad economy is ‘the new normal.’ Gun confiscation is called ‘gun control.’ Political corruption is called ‘a mistake in judgment.’ Censorship is ‘privacy protection.’ And ‘racism’ is now the root cause of all imaginative ills. What worked for the church in redefining spiritual concepts and false doctrines has also worked for the government in redefining their failed policies and their never-ending goal to separate citizens from their wealth.

   The Spirit of God (through the book of Jude and in Chapter 2 of the book of Revelations) is unfolding that both of these two doctrines are built from the spirit of Balaam in his ecclesiastical corruption as prophet and as priest. Do not forget that Balaam was one of the three enemies of God mentioned in the prelude (to the book of the Revelation) in the book of Jude because the spirit of Balaam never ceased to exist throughout time. The spirit of Balaam, as smoke, rises and drifts on many air currents.

   To get a crisp view of Balaam and the Nicolaitans in Ephesus I suggest that you take the time and actually read the entire 6 Chapters in the book of Ephesians. (I know, I know, that you may find reading tedious, BUT READ . . . and while reading look at the issues that Paul is charging the Ephesians with and what the areas that he is encouraging them to stand firm in. THESE WILL BE THE PROBLEMS WITHIN EPHESUS.

   Let us look at the first church in the book of Revelation Chapter 2 to begin to understand the spirit of Balaam and its connection with the Nicolaitans because the spirit of Balaam had already become active in the infant church of Ephesus.

Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; (Revelation 2:1)

I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: (Revelation 2:2)

And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. (Revelation 2:3)

Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. (Revelation 2:4)

Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. (Revelation 2:5)

But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. (Revelation 2:6)

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. (Revelation 2:7)

  All the writers of the New Testament were aware of the enemy WITHIN. The apostle Peter wrote in 2^nd Peter Chapter 2 not only about a prophecy soon to become accomplished, but about a current happening WITHIN his own age of the church. Unfortunately, too many in OUR age of the church refuse to see, or to acknowledge, that the church has failed in its responsibility to maintain the purity of the sanctuary, and now righteousness and truth have become merely an inconvenience.

But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.  (2^nd Peter 2:1)

And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.  (2^nd Peter 2:2)

And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.  (2^nd Peter 2:3)

And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you;  (2^nd Peter 2:13)

Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children: (2^nd Peter 2:14)

Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; (2^nd Peter 2:15)

But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man’s voice forbad the madness of the prophet. (2^nd Peter 2:16)

These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. (2^nd Peter 2:17)

For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.  (2^nd Peter 2:18)

While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. (2^nd Peter 2:19)

  The Lord Jesus spoke of the Age of Infiltration to come in the gospel of Matthew 13:24.

Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:  (Matthew 13:24)

But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. (Matthew 13:25)

But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. (Matthew 13:26)

So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? (Matthew 13:27)

He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?  (Matthew 13:28)

But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. (Matthew 13:29)

Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn. (Matthew 13:30)

The Nicolaitans

— The Age of the Tares —

   The Nicolaitans are mentioned twice in Scripture, and both have a phrase added by the Holy Spirit of God.

But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. (Revelation 2:6)

So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. (Revelation 2:15)

   Who were these Nicolaitans, what were their deeds, what was their doctrine, and how did they originate? The meaning of the name ‘Nicolaitans’ comes from the word ‘Nikos,’ and we also have the name ‘Nicolas.’ Under this umbrella we have the meaning of Nikos or Nicholas — ‘conqueror of the people (as a whole),’ or ‘conqueror of (what is of) the people.’ Through Scripture we know that possibly at the early baby stage of church history a young proselyte from Antioch (city in Turkey) was chosen among six other men to serve the church. And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: (Acts 6:5) The Holy Spirit singles out Nicholas from the others as a recent convert from Antioch. A small detail?

Nothing written in Scripture is without a purpose or reason. This we do know, that during this baby stage (the church in Ephesus in Revelation Chapter 2) there were divisions upon divisions. Many individuals had their favorite preachers, their favorite teachers, their favorite leaders, and thus, they began to call themselves after certain preferred oversight. Hearts, eyes, and ears turned toward man and away from the Creator, Savior, and Lord Jesus Christ.

Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. (1^st Corinthians 1:10)

For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. (1^st Corinthians 1:11)

Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. (1^st Corinthians 1:12)

Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? (1^st Corinthians 1:13)

And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. (1^st Corinthians 3:1)

I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. (1^st Corinthians 3:2)

For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? (1^st Corinthians 3:3)

For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?  (1^st Corinthians 3:4)

Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?  (1^st Corinthians 3:5)

I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. (1^st Corinthians 3:6)

So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.  (1^st Corinthians 3:7)

   Division, controversy, lack of discipline in the church gathering (1^st Corinthians 14), confusion within the worship meetings (1^st Corinthians 11), and many more problems existed in the churches recorded in the epistles of the New Testament. All New Testament writers, through the Holy Spirit, wrote about needful corrections that should be addressed by the ENTIRE ASSEMBLY. As churches grew in number and in location, the needs within each area church such as the care of widows, orphans, and the poor required oversight, and therefore, offices of responsibility were placed on proven believers such as elders, deacons, and bishops. However, these offices did not place these men as a separate group above others. The spirit of Balaam within men seeking power, fame, and money drew many into the formative church as Christians In Name Only (CINO) and a Church in Name Only (CINO). Thus, in the course of time, ecclesiastical exclusiveness became accepted, and this exclusiveness further developed into a hierarchal framework of such a deep division within the church that the church age today cannot think beyond this entrenched network of ecclesiasticism. Think Balaam, think Balaamism, and you may begin to see that pagan heathenism was smuggled into the church under a new name. What was this new name? It was called ‘The Clergy and The Laity.’

  Spiritual division in the house of God, and separation of Christians in a religious caste system cannot all be laid at the feet of the priestly band, but the people love to have it so. What would they do without their priests? They would seek out others to lay their responsibilities to God onto. A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; (Jeremiah 5:30) The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof? Jeremiah 5:31.

   What I have just written is considered by many heresy because the doctrine of Balaam and the doctrine of the Nicolaitans have eroded the fear of God in the hearts of mankind and the result is a dysfunctional society, and a dysfunctional church.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Proverbs 1:7)

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. (Proverbs 9:10)

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.  (Psalm 111:10)

   From the infant church (as we see in the church in Ephesus) to the church married to the world in Pergamos we have approximately three hundred years of political, social, geographical, economic, educational, and religious changes throughout the known world of Europe and Asia. Edicts and reforms by Constantine gave rights, privileges and exemptions to all religions; consequently, the Church In Name Only (CINO) became a corporation, and leaders within this CINO became privileged aristocrats through a newly recognized class/caste system called ‘The Clergy.’

   Pergamos, much married, and the state (through the centuries from Pergamos onward) began a lengthy history of conflict between themselves. As both CINO and the state struggled to overcome the other, the CINO also fought against Spirit led Christians wherever they were found. The clergy of the CINO became a powerful force militarily advancing their agenda to forcibly subdue all challenges to their authority and unscriptural doctrines.

   It is in Pergamos that the first martyr (in the book of the Revelation) is named. (Revelation 2:13) I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. Spirit led Christians have faced many challenges since the infant church. They were called on to battle spiritual battles. They were encouraged to stand fast in the war to take away their freedom and liberty in Christ. Six times in the New Testament we have the phrase ‘stand fast.‘ Six being the number of man, it is quite fitting that Christians are called to ‘stand fast‘ against all unrighteousness.

Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. (1^st Corinthians 16:13)

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)

Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; (Philippians 1:27)

Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, [my] dearly beloved. (Philippians 4:1)

For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord. (1^st Thessalonians 3:8)

Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. (2^nd Thessalonians 2:15)

   The battle within Pergamos was extremely intense to the point where Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you. Antipas stood fast in the faith, he stood fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, he stood fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, he stood fast in the Lord, and he stood fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. It was AMONG the church and the state that Antipas was slain. This should speak volumes to you about the condition of the CINO in Pergamos. Why was Antipas murdered? He was murdered because he stood against the doctrine of Balaam — to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. He was murdered because he stood fast against the doctrine of the Nicolaitans. By the way, his name (Antipas) means ‘against all,‘ and/or ‘against fatherland.’ The Fatherland of all Nicolaitans is defined by the Lord Jesus Christ — Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. (John 8:44) (The Lord in John 8:44 was speaking to the religious leaders of His age.) 

I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. (Revelation 2:13)

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. (Revelation 2:14)

So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. (Revelation 2:15)

Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.  (Revelation 2:16)

   The Holy Spirit of God, through the pen of the apostle John, emphasizes one particular word that is not used in any other church in the seven churches in the book of the Revelation. The word is ‘sword.‘ This word is mentioned two times only in the church in Pergamos. And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; (Revelation 2:12) Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. (Revelation 2:16) In this we have a double witness by the Holy Spirit that not only Pergamos was facing God’s judgment in wielding a sword of judgment against them, but it could also be that Antipas was murdered by a sword. Antipas engaged in a conflict AGAINST the Nicolaitans over a particular sword, the sword of the Word of God. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (Ephesians 6:17)

For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)

But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth [therein], he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. (James 1:25)

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)

   Antipas fought defending the Word of God, he was murdered obeying the Word of God, he stood fast against all in the liberty of Christ and thus, he refused to become engulfed once again with the bondage of the weak and beggarly bondage of the law of Moses. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. (2^nd Peter 2:19)

But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command [them] to keep the law of Moses. (Acts 15:5)

And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.  (Acts 13:39)

Side Note: What the Nicolaitans taught hopefully will be further developed later in this article. Notice that the Pharisees in Acts 15:5 is said by the Holy Spirit of God to be believers, however, they found it almost impossible to walk away from the law of Moses. This was another issue taken into the infant church: the false concept that the law of Moses HAD to be upheld WITH the faith and Spirit of Christ. ♦ End of Side Note. (CLICK HERE to read about why the infant Church did not understand that Christianity was an entirely NEW entity. )

And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: (Galatians 2:4)

  God’s letter to Pergamos began with the threat of a sword, and it ends with the promise that unless they repented then He would FIGHT AGAINST them with the sword of His mouth.

   The Word of God never ceases to enthrall and amaze me. Look at how the Holy Spirit focused on Antipas throughout this section of Scripture. The word ‘against‘ is recorded twice as a witness to the faithfulness of Antipas in this section of Pergamos in Revelation Chapter 2. Antipas (against all) was murdered because he stood fast AGAINST all opposition to the truth and the righteousness of God, God the Holy Spirit, desired to unfold to ALL readers that He too was/and is AGAINST ALL in Pergamos who held to the doctrine of Balaam, and to the doctrine of the Nicolaitans.

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. (Revelation 2:14)

Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. (Revelation 2:16)

   As Christians we should stand for the truth and righteousness of God and His Word, but we should also be aware of what we stand AGAINST. We stand AGAINST ‘the fatherland’ of Satan. Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. (John 8:44)

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; (Romans 1:18)

Because the carnal mind [is] enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. (Romans 8:7)

What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us? (Romans 8:31)

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  (Ephesians 6:11) For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places]. (Ephesians 6:12) 　

   There is another double witness in Pergamos. It is the word ‘Satan.‘ Although Satan is mentioned in other churches in the section that deals with the seven letters to the seven churches, it is ONLY in Pergamos that Satan is mentioned twice.

I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, [even] where Satan’s seat [is]: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas [was] my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. (Revelation 2:13)

   During the age of Pergamos, Satan had claimed power and authority over this church of ‘much married’ because not only had the world attached itself TO Pergamos, but it had SUBDUED most opposition, and had become an ORGANIZED hierarchical system of religious structure and order. In this age of clergy development, we see the beginning of the worship of relics, Mariolatry, schools of clergy, upper clergy and lower clergy rankings, the introduction and support of the arts in the CINO in images in sculptures and architecture. The Pergamos era produced a powerful network based on philosophy and intellectualism that created CINO policies, ordinances, rituals, and symbolic garments. There was a fascination with worship protocols, divine rights of the CINO, and a warped passion for outward display. In spite of the words stolen from Christianity, and from the Word of God used as props in the deeds of the Nicolaitans to usher in the doctrines of the Nicolaitans, this CINO framework was still essentially heathen. This is what God hated. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. (Revelation 2:6)

So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. (Revelation 2:15)

The Connection

Balaam Pergamos The Nicolaitans

— The Deeds and Doctrine That God Hates—

But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. (Revelation 2:6)

So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. (Revelation 2:15)

   In the letters to the seven churches in the book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ we have seen that there are references about witness through the number two in the church in Pergamos: ‘sword‘, against‘, and ‘Satan.’ Now, however, we add another double mention of the word ‘hate,’ but this word is first mentioned in the very first church of Ephesus and it was the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. In Pergamos deeds became doctrine, and this doctrine that God hates set the tone and character of what we see around us in THIS age. Many call our age, The Age of Grace, however, God has always shown grace to mankind from the very creation of Adam. Our age is The Age of Grace because grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. 

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.  (John 1:14)

For the law was given by Moses, [but] grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.  (John 1:17)

   Our age is also The Age of Apostasy. It is The Age of The Last Days. It is The Age of the Last Times, and our age is also The Age of God’s Final Call.

Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; (2^nd Thessalonians 2:3)

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; (1^st Timothy 4:1)

Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, (2^nd Peter 3:3)

Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. (1^st John 2:18)

   God, through His Spirit, did not say, which I also HATED, nor which thing I HATED. The word ‘hate’ is not past tense, but it is ALWAYS present tense. The deeds and doctrine of the Nicolaitans were not ONLY realized in the past, but it is continuous action AGAINST the authority and sovereignty of God.

But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. (Revelation 2:6)

So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. (Revelation 2:15)

   Sins within the sanctuary are not a new occurrence. Since from the very beginning of the institution of the Levitical priesthood Satan has attempted to overthrow what God had created in Israel as a means to approach Him in holiness and righteousness.

And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not.  (Levitical 10:1) And there went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD. (Levitical 10:2)

   Through the Old Testament Levitical priesthood, Aaron, the anointed high priest, was the mediator between God and man in the things of sacrifice and ordinances. These sacrifices and ordinances were dictated by strict laws in management and in the execution of all of the sacrifices to the smallest detail in garment design, ash maintenance, holy oil production, flour refinement, and numerous other procedures. Behind every detail, and every act, and in every sacrifice, there was ONE CORE OBJECTIVE. Everything pointed to the Messiah in ALL of His heavenly attributes, and in ALL of His earthly manifested accomplishment yet to come in time. You see, the Bible is about God and His desire to communicate to mankind, and to dwell AMONG man, but man in Adam cannot come near to God in man’s current state of sin. Thus, God placed a ‘Daysman’ between Himself and mankind.

For he is not a man, as I am, that I should answer him, and we should come together in judgment. (Job 9:32) Neither is there any daysman betwixt us, that might lay his hand upon us both. (Job 9:33)

   Israel, God’s people on earth, had a specific purpose in God’s future plan for them. They would be a separated people. A people separated from the nations around them. They would be a holy people, a special people, a peculiar people and from this ground would spring David, the rod of Jesse, and through David would come the Messiah.

For thou [art] an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that [are] upon the face of the earth.  (Deuteronomy 7:6)

For thou [art] an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that [are] upon the earth.  (Deuteronomy 14:2)

And to make thee high above all nations which he hath made, in praise, and in name, and in honour; and that thou mayest be an holy people unto the LORD thy God, as he hath spoken. (Deuteronomy 26:19)

   Why spend time on this background material in an article about Balaam — Pergamos — and the Nicolaitans? Simply, or maybe not so simply, the Nicolaitans in the age of Pergamos needed a system, a framework of worship protocols that the people would accept as ‘Christian’ and would rally to. And since this system had already been used and put into place previously by the Jews in the Levitical priesthood  the Nicolaitans (being men of opportunity) refined it, redefined it, reshaped it, and added ‘Christian’ words and terms, and out came (as the golden calf – Exodus 32:24) — a better, shinier priesthood. 

   The age of Pergamos drew priests into the Christian Church from the pagan realm who were not about to go gently into the dark night of obscurity. Pagan idolatry was not about to feebly capitulate to the new religion in their midst. This was Balaamism at work: infiltrate and consume opponents from within.

And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. (2^nd Corinthians 11:14) Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. (2^nd Corinthians 11:15)

   Then we also have Pharisees, as Scripture records, who became believers. But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command [them] to keep the law of Moses. (Acts 15:5) It is also documented that a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. In Acts 6:7 we read, And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

   No problem here, right? Wrong. I am not stating that ALL Jewish priests who came into the Christian Church through faith in Christ worked against the Church, but it didn’t take ALL of them to bring in the Jewish traditions and laws. All that was needed was that SOME would not be able to accept that the laws of Moses and the sacrifices and ordinances within the Levitical priesthood had absolutely no place within the Church.

Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. (2^nd Corinthians 11:24) Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; (2^nd Corinthians 11:25) In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; (2^nd Corinthians 11:26)

And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: (Galatians 2:4)

While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. (2^nd Peter 2:19)

And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.  (Acts 13:39)

   Much married (Pergamos) had made the tares within (Christians in name only) comfortable and profitable because ‘much married’ became wealthy through real estate deals, legacies, and confiscation of pagan properties and temples. The church of the world had finally come of age in Pergamos. The blending of Jewish religious acts, garments, holy oils, ashes, symbolic design, imagery through fanciful imaginations, and even magical rites and superstitions were added to the simplicity of the infant church in worship venues.

Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. (Titus 1:14) But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. (1^st Timothy 4:7)　

   The responsibilities and duties of the priesthood of the Levitical order had also been replicated and added to the newly formed system of Christian worship until the ways of the original Christian church was no longer recognized as of Christ. Much married had not only married the world, but it had married the former Levitical priesthood of the Old Testament. The CINO (Church in name only) had become a mongrelized religious system under the banner of The Church. There is no end in tracing the deliberate and selective bastardization of this much married system. All it took to achieve this great transition was approximately three hundred years from the words of the Lord Jesus Christ to the woman at the well in Samaria when He said . . .

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. (John 4:23) God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)

Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. (John 4:21)

   The Lord Jesus affirmed that the worship of God was no longer centered on a place, when the veil of the Temple was rent from top to bottom at His death on the cross of Calvary, the approach to God had been made OPEN and AVAILABLE for all.

And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; (Matthew 27:51)

And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.  (Mark 15:38)

And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. (Luke 23:45)

Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. (Hebrews 10:18) Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, (Hebrews 10:19) By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; (Hebrews 10:20) And having an high priest over the house of God; (Hebrews 10:21) Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. (Hebrews 10:22)

   Mankind could finally approach God without the constraints of a building, or an earthly priest, or an earthly priesthood. God has made the way to Him accessible through ONE way only, and that is through the blood and sacrifice of our Great High Priest and our Great Sacrifice: the Lord Jesus Christ. It has always been about God and His way. It is no longer a place that mankind needs to search for or to serve. It has always been about a PERSON. To deny this and to insist that an earthly priest is needed, or an earthly building is required, or acts of conduct and ritualism are required to draw near to God is to deny Jesus Christ Himself. This is what God HATES. He HATES that mankind is denied access directly to Him. He HATES that mankind refuses to accept His One and Only Mediator, Jesus Christ.  The word ‘mediator’ is recorded six times in Scripture, and because six is the number of sinful man, therefore, it is evident that sinful man needs a mediator between God and man. God set ONE Mediator in the Lord Jesus Christ. No one except the Lord Jesus Christ can act as God’s mediator.

Wherefore then [serveth] the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; [and it was] ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. (Galatians 3:19) Now a mediator is not [a mediator] of one, but God is one. (Galatians 3:20)

For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; (1^st Timothy 2:5)

But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.  (Hebrews 8:6)

And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. (Hebrews 9:15)

And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than [that of] Abel. (Hebrews 12:24)

   God HATES when His creatures remove the glories of His Son and places His glory onto another.   For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it: for how should my name be polluted? and I will not give my glory unto another. (Isaiah 48:11)

  The Nicolaitans usurped and assumed a place of honor and dignity which belongs to Christ alone as the Mediator and as Priest. (1^st Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 8:1) God HATES when His creatures commingle pagan worship with godly worship. I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. (Amos 5:21) 

Because of their wickedness which they have committed to provoke me to anger, in that  they went to burn incense, and to serve other gods, whom they knew not, neither they, ye, nor your fathers. (Jeremiah 44:3) Howbeit I sent unto you all my servants the prophets, rising early and sending them, saying, Oh, do not this abominable thing that I hate. (Jeremiah 44:4)

   No one can stand between you and God. No one can set conditions by which God will accept you. No one (religious system, nor church organization) has special spiritual powers to act on behalf of God. This is bondage. This is not liberty. You have been set free in Christ. Believe it, act on it, realize it, accept it and use your liberty in Christian productivity. The Spirit of the Lord [is] upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, (Luke 4:18)

Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there [is] liberty. (Luke 4:18)

Stand fast therefore  in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)

But whoso looketh into  the perfect law of liberty, and continueth [therein], he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. (James 1:25)

If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.  (John 8:36)

---

---

Men of renown is a companion piece to Giants in the Earth series.

---

© Copyright 2021, Mary Haigh

This article may be used, but not for gain. Freely ye have received, freely give.

All Scripture references are from the King James Bible. (KJV)

---

---

---