Imagine being handed a pair of specially tinted glasses. After wearing them for months, your brain adapts. You forget what the world looked like without them. The tinted view becomes your reality.
This is precisely what happens in Shincheonji’s three-level Bible study curriculum.
The Shincheonji Church of Jesus (SCJ) has developed a sophisticated three-level Bible study curriculum that systematically prepares students to accept a specific historical narrative as the fulfillment of biblical prophecy. Understanding this curriculum structure is essential to comprehending how SCJ teaches its core doctrine and why students come to believe that events at a small church in South Korea between 1966 and 1984 represent the fulfillment of the Book of Revelation.
This chapter examines how SCJ’s teaching methodology—progressing from Parables (figurative language) to Bible Logic (God’s pattern) to Revelation (physical fulfillment)—creates a comprehensive interpretive framework that transforms ordinary historical events into a divine drama of eternal significance.
Why This Chapter Comes First
Before we can examine the same historical events through different lenses in Chapters 2 and 3, we need to understand exactly how Shincheonji constructs the “parable filter” that transforms perception.
Think back to our detective analogy from the introduction. Before analyzing the crime scene, our detectives need to understand what investigative tools and frameworks each one is using. A forensic accountant approaches evidence differently than a behavioral psychologist. Their training, vocabulary, and interpretive rules determine what they see and how they understand it.
What we call the “parable filter” is the end result of this three-level curriculum. By the time students complete the Advanced Revelation course, they have internalized:
- A complete symbolic vocabulary where every biblical term has a predetermined meaning
- A cyclical understanding of biblical history where God must work the same way in every era
- A set of interpretive rules that make Lee Man-hee and Shincheonji appear in virtually every biblical passage
- An urgency and exclusivity that positions SCJ membership as the only path to salvation
This filter doesn’t change the historical facts—it changes how those facts are understood and what significance they carry.
This article is a starting point, not the final word. We encourage you to cross-examine these perspectives with your own biblical research. Think critically and independently as you evaluate these claims. Scripture invites us to “test everything; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Errors can occur in any human work, so verify with multiple trusted sources. Your personal journey with Scripture matters—let this be a catalyst for deeper study, not a substitute for it. The most powerful faith comes through thoughtful examination and personal conviction.
Chapter 1
The Shincheonji Bible Study Framework
Understanding SCJ’s Core Doctrine Through Systematic Teaching
Overview: Connecting the Three-Level Study to SCJ’s Fulfillment Narrative
The Shincheonji Church of Jesus (SCJ) has developed a sophisticated three-level Bible study curriculum that systematically prepares students to accept a specific historical narrative as the fulfillment of biblical prophecy. Understanding this curriculum structure is essential to comprehending how SCJ teaches its core doctrine and why students come to believe that events at a small church in South Korea between 1966 and 1984 represent the fulfillment of the Book of Revelation.
This chapter examines how SCJ’s teaching methodology—progressing from Parables (symbolic language) to Bible Logic (God’s pattern) to Revelation (physical fulfillment)—creates a comprehensive interpretive framework that transforms ordinary historical events into a divine drama of eternal significance.
Before examining how Shincheonji interprets the same historical events through different lenses (secular vs. spiritual) in subsequent chapters, we must first understand the systematic teaching structure that makes this dual interpretation possible.
The three-level Bible study curriculum is not merely an educational program—it’s a carefully designed indoctrination roadmap that progressively builds the interpretive framework necessary to view the Tabernacle Temple events as the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.
What we call the “parable filter” is the end result of this three-level curriculum. By the time students complete the Advanced Revelation course, they have internalized a complete symbolic vocabulary, a cyclical understanding of biblical history, and a set of interpretive rules that make Lee Man-hee and Shincheonji appear in virtually every biblical passage. This filter doesn’t change the historical facts—it changes how those facts are understood and what significance they carry.
What This Chapter Provides
This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of interconnected elements that work together to reveal SCJ’s systematic approach:
The Fulfillment Narrative Timeline:
- The Covenantal Eras – How SCJ organizes all of history into distinct periods leading to the Tabernacle Temple events
- The Betrayal and Destruction Phase – The events of 1966-1984 interpreted as Revelation 1-13
- The Salvation and Recreation Phase – The establishment of Shincheonji as the New Spiritual Israel
- The 42 Months Context – The significance of the destruction period in SCJ theology
The Teaching Infrastructure:
- The Three-Level Teaching Structure – How SCJ systematically builds biblical interpretation skills through progressive indoctrination
- The Selective Biblical Coverage – What SCJ emphasizes versus what it omits or reinterprets
- The Repetitive Key Verses – Which scriptures are used at each course level to reinforce the narrative
The Doctrinal Framework:
- The Cast of Characters – How real people from 1966-1984 are mapped onto biblical figures and symbols
- The Three Important Promises – The core doctrinal framework underlying all SCJ teaching
- The Place of Salvation Doctrine – How SCJ creates organizational exclusivity by claiming salvation is location-specific in each era
How This Chapter Connects to What Follows
Understanding this systematic blueprint enables readers to better evaluate the subsequent analysis:
For Chapter 2 (The Secular Lens): Once you understand the parable filter SCJ creates through this curriculum, Chapter 2 will systematically remove it—showing how the same events at the Tabernacle Temple appear when examined through secular, organizational, and psychological frameworks. You’ll see ordinary people making strategic decisions, organizational conflicts following predictable patterns, and human motivations that require no supernatural explanation.
For Chapter 3 (The Sacred Lens): With the teaching structure mapped in this chapter, Chapter 3 will demonstrate how SCJ applies the parable filter in action—transforming those same ordinary events into cosmic spiritual warfare, mapping every detail of Revelation onto the Tabernacle Temple story, and creating a self-reinforcing interpretive system that appears biblically inevitable to those who have completed the three-level curriculum.
For Subsequent Analytical Chapters: This foundational understanding enables deeper examination of:
- The psychological mechanisms that make this progressive indoctrination effective
- The biblical and historical context that SCJ’s interpretations violate
- The theological problems with SCJ’s core doctrines
- Practical strategies for helping those influenced by this teaching system
The Central Question
By the end of this chapter, you will understand not just what Shincheonji teaches, but how they teach it—the systematic methodology that enables students to look at organizational conflict in 1980s South Korea and see the fulfillment of first-century prophecies.
The question then becomes: Is this interpretive framework revealing hidden biblical truth, or is it creating a compelling fiction by applying religious symbolism to ordinary events?
Same facts. Same timeline. Same people. The framework determines everything.
Let’s begin by examining SCJ’s timeline of the fulfillment of Revelation.
The timeline of events according to Shincheonji (SCJ) doctrine organizes history into distinct eras based on God’s covenants and the repeated cycle of Betrayal, Destruction, and Salvation (BDS). The final era—the Second Coming—is defined by the physical fulfillment of the New Covenant (Revelation) in South Korea.
I. The Covenantal Eras and Spiritual Darkness
SCJ doctrine outlines history in approximately 2,000-year increments.
| Era/Period | Timeline Marker | Doctrinal Significance |
| Old Testament Era | c. 4000 BC to 1 AD | Adam to Abraham: Period of Genesis. Humanity breaks the initial covenant with God. Physical Israel is established, receiving the Law and prophecies concerning Jesus. The Law (Old Testament) is given through Moses. |
| First Coming Era | c. 1 AD | Jesus fulfills the Old Testament prophecies, making atonement for sin and establishing the New Covenant with His blood.This is the period of the Gospel and the Epistles |
| Spiritual Night | Post-Ascension | When Jesus, the Light/Day, left, the world entered a spiritual darkness or deep, dark night. The secrets of the New Covenant (Revelation) were sealed in parables. |
| Current Era | Present Time | The Period of Recreation and Revelation. The final hope is the fulfillment of Revelation and the New Spiritual Israel. |
II. The Betrayal and Destruction of Spiritual Israel (The First Tabernacle)
The events of Revelation 1–13 are interpreted as the physical destruction of the corrupted Christian church in Korea, following the predetermined pattern of Betrayal and Destruction.
| Date/Timeframe | Prophetic Fulfillment (Reality) | Biblical Reference (SCJ View) |
| 1st Century AD | Ascension and Darkness: After Jesus ascended, the world was plunged into spiritual night because Jesus (the Light/Day) left. The prophecies of the New Testament remain sealed in parables until the time of fulfillment. | |
| 1966 | Establishment of the Tabernacle Temple: Seven messengers, known as the “seven stars” or angels of the seven golden lampstands, establish the Tabernacle Temple in Gwacheon, South Korea. They acted as the John the Baptist figure for the Second Coming, preparing the way for the Promised Pastor. | Revelation 1:20 |
| 1967 | Lee Man-hee (LMH) Joins: LMH joins the Tabernacle Temple. | |
| 1975 (February) | The Destroyer Enters: Mr. Oh Pyeong-ho (also called Pastor Nicholas, Balaam, Beast from the Earth, and the bitter star/Wormwood) enters the Tabernacle Temple. This marks the infiltration of the Nicolaitans. | Revelation 13 and Revelation 2:6, 15 |
| 1979–1983 | Betrayal and Destruction: The seven messengers of the Tabernacle Temple betray the covenant and are destroyed by the seven heads of the Beast/SEC (Stewardship Education Center). LMH denounces this corruption and faces assassination threats. This period includes the Gentile destroyers trampling the holy place for 42 months. | |
| March 14, 1980 | Tabernacle Entrusted to Destroyer: Mr. Yoo Jr. entrusts the Tabernacle Temple to Mr. Oh Pyeong-ho, who becomes the new head pastor. This is viewed as the event of the destroyer standing in the holy place. | Matthew 24:15 |
| September 14, 1980 | End of Spiritual Israel: Mr. Oh changes the name of the Tabernacle Temple to Isaac Church (a Presbyterian church), confirming that the temple no longer belonged to God but to Satan. This event marks the end of Spiritual Israel (traditional Christianity). | |
| September 20, 1981, 2:00 PM | Mark of the Beast Ceremony: A special meeting is held where the congregation swears an oath of allegiance to the Presbyterian denomination’s laws and doctrines. This ceremonial action constitutes receiving the figurative Mark of the Beast (acknowledgment). | Revelation 9:15 |
| 42 Months
September 1980 to March 1984 |
Destruction Period: The destroyers trample the holy place for a period of 42 months.
Spiritual Battle: A spiritual battle takes place |
Revelation 11:2 and Revelation 13:5 |
Context and Significance of the 42 Months
This period fulfills the prophecy found in Revelation 11:2 and Revelation 13:5, and it is a central event in the SCJ timeline.
- The Event (The Destruction): The 42 months represents the time when the Gentiles (the Destroyer, symbolized by the beast with seven heads and ten horns, representing the Stewardship Education Center/Babylon) were given the authority to work. They were allowed to trample on the holy city/tabernacle of heaven. This trampling specifically refers to the Gentile doctrine (Presbyterianism) being introduced into the spiritual kingdom established by Jesus (the Tabernacle Temple in Gwacheon, South Korea).
- Duration Equivalents: The 42 months is explicitly equated to several other prophetic time periods:
◦ Three and a half years (3.5 years). Leen Man-hee Book, Reality of Revelation (1985)
◦ 1,260 days.
◦ A time, times, and half a time (Daniel 7:24–25).
- End of Destruction: The end of the 42 months marks the time when the dragon (Satan’s organization) is defeated and banished from the Tabernacle of Heaven. It is after the 42 months of destruction that the Overcomer (LMH) begins to rule all nations.
- Shortened Days: This period was originally prophesied in the Old Testament as a period of 70 years of service to Babylon (Jeremiah 25:11). Jesus, however, promised to shorten those days for the sake of the elect (Matthew 24:22), fulfilling this promise by revealing the period would be 42 months in Revelation.
The completion of the 42 months leads directly into the next phase of God’s plan: the establishment of Shincheonji (New Spiritual Israel), which was founded on March 14, 1984.
III. The Salvation and Recreation (New Spiritual Israel)
This phase involves the mission of LMH to testify to the fulfillment of Revelation and the establishment of the eternal kingdom, Shincheonji.
| Date/Timeframe | Prophetic Fulfillment (Reality) | Biblical Reference (SCJ View) |
| Spring 1980 | LMH Receives Revelation: Jesus gives the opened scroll to an angel, who delivers it to the New John (LMH). LMH eats the scroll, gaining complete understanding, and is commanded to testify. | Revelation 10 |
| End of 1982 through 1983 | Spiritual War: A spiritual battle takes place. The male child (the Overcomer, LMH) is said to overcome the dragon. | Revelation 12 |
| March 14, 1984 | Shincheonji Founded: Shincheonji Church of Jesus, Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony, is established and proclaimed. This marks the beginning of the New Spiritual Israel. The organization is created exactly according to the blueprint of God’s spiritual kingdom seen in Revelation 4. | Revelation 15:2–5 and Revelation 21 |
| 1990 (June) | Zion Christian Mission Center Established: The main biblical education center is established in Seoul, where members are prepared through courses and exams. | |
| 1995 | Twelve Tribes Organized: The Twelve Tribes of Shincheonji are formally organized. This organization is structured according to the spiritual kingdom seen in Revelation 4. | Revelation 7 and Revelation 21:14 |
| 2019 | The 100,000 Graduation: The unprecedented 100,000 graduation takes place, representing first fruits given to God. | |
| 2020 (March/April) | The Great Tribulation: LMH proclaims that SCJ is facing the Great Tribulation (identified with COVID-19 at that time). The fact that this tribulation has arrived is presented as evidence that the 144,000 have been sealed. | Matthew 24 and Revelation 7 |
| Present/Future | Gathering and Final Judgment: The ongoing work includes harvesting the elect and creating the great multitude in white. God and Jesus will descend to unite with the 12 tribes of Shincheonji, fulfilling the marriage of the Lamb and beginning the eternal reign. | Revelation 7, 19, 21 |
The doctrine concerning the fulfillment of Revelation (the New Covenant) asserts that the prophecies were physically realized in Korea in the twentieth century. The events unfold according to a logical order: betrayal of the chosen people, then destruction, and then salvation.
The “cast” of characters and organizations are classified into three primary groups based on their role in this fulfillment drama: the Betrayers, the Destroyers, and the Saviors.
Here is a brief introduction to each cast member and organization in the reality of the fulfillment of Revelation, according to Shincheonji (SCJ) doctrine:
1. The Savior (God’s Side)
The Savior group consists of the figures chosen by God and Jesus Christ to bring the work of salvation to completion at the end of the age.
| Character/Organization | Introduction and Identity in Fulfillment Reality |
| Jesus Christ (The Lamb) | The one who receives the scroll sealed with seven seals from God, opens it, and fulfills the prophecy. Jesus returns in the spirit to rule over the New Spiritual Israel and ultimately conquer the enemies. He grants authority and blessings to the One Who Overcomes. |
| Lee Man-hee (LMH) / The New John | The Promised Pastor, the messenger of Jesus, and the One Who Overcomes. He received the open, revealed scroll from the angel, ate it, and was commanded to testify again about its physical fulfillment to many peoples, nations, languages, and kings. His testimony concerning the fulfillment of Revelation is the eternal gospel/new song.
|
| The Seven Messengers | Figuratively called the “seven stars” and the “angels/messengers of the seven churches/seven golden lampstands” (Rev 1–3), they appeared first to prepare the way for the Lord at the Second Coming, playing the same role as John the Baptist at the First Coming. They are the chosen people who appear at the start of Revelation’s fulfillment. They represent the subjects of the kingdom who were eventually thrown outside |
| The 144,000 First Fruits | The literal number of sealed priests who form the foundation of New Spiritual Israel. They are sealed with God’s word (the revealed Revelation) on their foreheads. They are harvested and belong to the Twelve Tribes. |
| The Great Multitude | A countless number of people from every nation, tribe, people, and language (every denomination and churchgoer). They emerge from the great tribulation, wash their robes white in the blood of the Lamb (the revealed word of Jesus), and gather to Mount Zion after the 144,000 are sealed. They gather after the sealing of the 144,000 and the great tribulation. |
| New Spiritual Israel (Shincheonji) | The new kingdom and new people created by the Overcomer through harvesting and sealing. It is the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony, established after the destruction of the first tabernacle, and is the place where God’s throne (Holy City New Jerusalem) descends and unites with the flesh. |
| The Twelve Tribes | The fundamental organization of New Spiritual Israel, created by the Overcomer. This organization is the church registry (Lamb’s Book of Life). They are named after Jesus’ 12 disciples and are the gates of the Holy City. |
| Mount Zion / TTT | The place of salvation and re-creation established by the overcomer, where the new kingdom is formed. The fulfillment of Mount Zion is occurring in Gwacheon. Its full name is the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony (TTT). The promised temple. It is the new heaven and new earth. It is the destination where the Holy City, New Jerusalem, descends. |
3. The Destroyer (Satan’s Side)
The Destroyers are the false pastors who carry out Satan’s work by killing the spirits of the chosen people.
| Character/Organization | Introduction and Identity in Fulfillment Reality |
| The Beast with Seven Heads and Ten Horns | This is the central organization of the devil, referred to as the group of the dragon/Nicolaitans/synagogue of Satan. The seven heads represent seven pastors (the seven destroyers), and the ten horns represent ten authority figures/elders who received ruling authority. |
| Pastor Nicholas / Mr. Oh | The sources identify him as the Beast from the Earth (BFE), the one who introduces the teachings of the Nicolaitans and orchestrates the destruction. He is also symbolized by the star Wormwood (who fell from heaven) and the eighth king (the last pastor to take power after the seven destroyers). |
| Mr. Tak | The Great Prostitute / Babylon (mother of prostitutes). The organization of the beast and the kingdom of demons. This term figuratively refers to the denominations and believers of the world (traditional Christianity) that have been deceived by false doctrines (the “wine of her adulteries”). God commands His people to “come out of her” to be saved. Mr. Tak, the main leader of the destroyers and the actual leader of the Christian Stewardship Training Center (CSTC), also called the Stewardship Education Center (SEC). He led the group that entered the Tabernacle Temple in 1980. He represents the beast with seven heads and ten horns, the Beast from the Sea (BFS), the main head. |
| Babylon the Great | Represents the institutional church, the traditional churches of today, and all who follow them, awaiting large-scale judgment. Babylon is the place God’s people are called to “come out of”. Symbolizes confusion and mixing. It is the figurative sea from which the beast emerges, a dwelling for demons, and a spiritual grave. |
| CSTC / SEC | The shepherd education center organization led by Mr. Tak, which opposed God’s will and invaded the Tabernacle Temple. It was founded by figures associated with the Nicolaitans. Called spiritual Babylon, the kingdom of the dragon, and the destroyer’s organization. It is the abyss from which the destroyer group emerged. |
| The False Prophet / The Tail | A symbolic figure representing pastors who betray or are led by destroyers. The tail is specifically linked to the false prophet (Isaiah 9:15) and is the idol or image of the first beast, used to deceive the elect. The 17 ordained evangelists of the Tabernacle Temple became the tail when they received the mark of the beast. |
| The Mark of the Beast (666) | The mark is not literal, but figurative. Receiving the mark on the forehead or right hand means accepting the doctrine/teachings of the beast (false doctrine) in one’s mind (forehead) and actions (right hand). The fulfillment was the appointment ceremony where chosen people swore allegiance to the destroyer’s doctrine. |
4. The Betrayers (Fallen Chosen People)
The Betrayers are the chosen people of the last days who break God’s covenant.
| Character/Organization | Introduction and Identity in Fulfillment Reality |
| The Saints of the Tabernacle Temple | The congregation members who were cast out of heaven. They were the chosen people of Spiritual Israel who, at the time of fulfillment, were invaded and deceived by the Nicolaitans (the destroyers). They were the primary targets of the judgment plagues. |
| The Seven Messengers | (See also Savior side). Although they began as the light preparing the way, they betrayed the covenant by committing spiritual fornication and accepting the doctrine of the Nicolaitans. They are referred to as the betrayers in the BDS sequence. |
| The Sun, Moon, and Stars | A figurative representation of the pastors and congregation members of the chosen people (Spiritual Israel) who lose their light (the word of truth) and fall into spiritual darkness during the judgment. |
The Shincheonji (SCJ) doctrine asserts that the Bible, particularly the New Testament prophecies, is sealed using parables (figurative language) to conceal the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven from the enemy until the time of fulfillment. Understanding these parables, which function like a spiritual codebook, is critical for salvation and recognizing the physical fulfillment of Revelation.
The following codebook summarizes key figurative terms, their true meanings in the fulfillment reality, and supporting Bible verses.
For further exploration:
I. Parables Representing The Word and Teachings
These terms denote the various forms and characteristics of God’s Word, which is the necessary input for spiritual life and truth.
| Parable Term | True Meaning / Significance | Cited Bible Verse(s) |
| Word | God, Jesus, The Bible/Scripture, contains life and light. | John 1:1; John 1:1-4; John 6:63; John 17:17; Psalm 119:105. |
| Seed | The Word of God; the origin of life. | Luke 8:11; Jeremiah 31:27; Matthew 13:24–30; Matthew 13:36–43. |
| Weeds / Tares | The Devil’s lies; the sons of the evil one; Satan’s seed. | Matthew 13:38; John 8:44. |
| Fire | The Word that consumes and judges; the word that refines and purifies. | Luke 12:49; Jeremiah 5:14; Matthew 3:11–12; Jeremiah 23:29; Malachi 4:1–2. |
| Water / River | The Word of Life/Truth; used to cleanse sins; the heart of disciples and evangelists (River). | Revelation 22:1–2; John 6:63; John 15:3; Deuteronomy 32:2; Zechariah 13:1. |
| Lamp | The Bible/Scripture; the Word. | Psalm 119:105; 2 Peter 1:19; Matthew 25:1–13. |
| Oil / Olive Oil | The word of testimony; testimony of the Holy Spirit; word from the two witnesses; that which sustains faith. | Revelation 11:3–7; Matthew 25:1–13; Revelation 6:6. |
| Yeast | Teachings or Instructions; transforming power (either God’s or Satan’s). | Matthew 16:6–12; Matthew 13:33. |
| Scales | The Word of God that weighs one’s faith and actions. | Revelation 6:5–6; 1 Samuel 2:3; John 12:48. |
| Seal / Mark | The Word of God/Testimony; instrument to show approval and possession. | Revelation 7:2–3; John 1:1; Hebrews 11; Jeremiah 31. |
| Treasure | The Word of God; a person with the word. | Matthew 13:44. |
| Hidden Manna | The revealed word of Revelation. |
II. Parables Representing The Believer / Person / Heart
These figures describe the internal capacity (heart) and the identity of people based on the seed they received (God’s or Satan’s).
| Parable Term | True Meaning / Significance | Cited Bible Verse(s) |
| Field | A person’s heart; the world or church (Jesus’ field). | Luke 8:15; Matthew 13:38; 1 Corinthians 3:9. |
| Bowl / Container / Vessel | A person’s heart; or an organization like a church (large bowl). | Revelation 15:7; 2 Timothy 2:20–21; Isaiah 64:8; Jeremiah 5:14. |
| Trees / Tree of Life | A person reborn of the seed; a shepherd; the words of truth. | Matthew 7:15–20; James 1:18; John 15:5; Revelation 22:1–2. |
| Fruit | Saints born of the Word; Words that come out of one’s mouth. | Matthew 12:33–35; James 1:18. |
| Righteous Acts | Wedding Clothes / Fine Linen. | Revelation 19:8; Matthew 22:1–14. |
| Flesh and Blood | Figuratively, the revealed word of Jesus. | John 6:63; Revelation 12:11. |
| Breath of Life | The Word of Life. | John 6:63. |
| Fish | People/Men. | Matthew 4:19; Habakkuk 1:14. |
III. Parables Representing The Shepherd, Leader, and Authority
These figures represent those in spiritual leadership, whether good or evil, and the source of their authority.
| Parable Term | True Meaning / Significance | Cited Bible Verse(s) |
| Pastor / Shepherd | A person born again (Tree); the Promised Pastor (Spring); the Sun. | |
| Sun | Shepherd/Pastor. | Revelation 6. |
| Moon | Evangelist. | |
| Stars | Saints (Congregation Members). | |
| Head | A leader (a shepherd/head pastor). | |
| Horn | An authority figure (elder/deacon). | Revelation 17:12. |
| Tail | A false prophet belonging to a beast. | Isaiah 9:15. |
| Rod / Staff | The Word; a person who has the Word. | Revelation 11:1–2; Psalm 119:105. |
| Iron Scepter | Ecclesiastical authority to rule; given to the One Who Overcomes. | |
| Wood | People / Pastor (who ignites the fire/word). | Jeremiah 5:14. |
| Lampstand | Spirit and Worker; the seven golden lampstands refer to the Tabernacle Temple. | Revelation 1:20. |
IV. Parables Representing The Church and Organization
These figures describe the gathering place for believers, classified as either God’s true kingdom or Satan’s false organization.
| Parable Term | Fulfillment Identity | Biblical Comparison/Source |
| Field | The world of churches. | Matthew 13:38; 1 Corinthians 3:9. |
| Church / Temple | Heaven; the Tabernacle of the chosen people; organization like a church (Pot/Bowl). | Ezekiel 11:3; Ezekiel 24:3-6; Matthew 13:47–50. |
| Mountain | An organization like a church or temple. | Isaiah 2:1–3. |
| Sea | The world (where various doctrines are); organization of evil. | Revelation 17:15; Habakkuk 1:14. |
| Ship / Ark | Church (that saves people). | Genesis 7:1. |
| Babylon | The church of Gentile demons belonging to Satan. | Revelation 17:5; Revelation 18. |
| Jerusalem | A church of the chosen people belonging to God. | Luke 21:20–21. |
| Censer | A person (vessel that holds the Word/fire). | Acts 9:15; Revelation 8:3–4. |
| Grave | An organization of lies. | Mark 12:27. |
V. Additional Figurative Language
| Parable Term | True Meaning / Significance | Cited Bible Verse(s) |
| Key | The wisdom to know secrets. | Isaiah 22:22; Revelation 3:7. |
| Darkness | Ignorance of not having the word. | |
| Light | The Word of Life; the person who has the Word. | John 1:1–4; Psalm 119:105; Psalm 119:130. |
| Four Living Creatures | The four archangels. | Revelation 5:8; Revelation 15:7. |
| Wind | An angel and judgment. To blow the wind means to judge through an angel. | |
| New Song | The word that is preached (gospel); the gospel of the fulfillment of prophecies. | Revelation 14:3–4. |
| Bridegroom | A Spirit (Holy Spirit); Jesus Christ. | Matthew 25:1–13. |
| Bride | Flesh; the Holy City New Jerusalem (organization built of disciples’ spirits). | Galatians 4:19. |
| Widow | Pastor who betrayed and the Holy Spirit has left. | |
| Orphan | Church members belonging to the pastor who betrayed. |
Overview: The Three-Level Progressive System
The Shincheonji Church of Jesus (SCJ) systematically teaches the Bible through a structured three-level curriculum designed to progressively deepen understanding and commitment:
- Introductory Level: Parables (Understanding the Language)
- Intermediate Level: Bible Logic (Understanding God’s Pattern)
- Advanced Level: Revelation (Understanding the Fulfillment)
Each stage is deliberately crafted to build upon the previous one, creating a comprehensive interpretive framework that culminates in accepting Lee Man-hee as the Promised Pastor and Shincheonji as the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.
For further exploration:
1. Introductory Level: Parables – Foundation of Understanding
Core Teaching Focus: “The kingdom of heaven is like…”
Key Concepts Taught:
The Necessity of Parable Understanding
- God intentionally conceals prophecies using figurative language and parables to protect His divine plans from spiritual enemies
- Biblical basis emphasized: Matthew 13:10-11, 34-35 (Jesus spoke only in parables to the crowds)
- Without correctly understanding these parables, believers cannot discern truth from falsehood, nor attain salvation
Fundamental Symbolic Definitions:
- Seed = The Word of God (Matthew 13:19)
- Field = The world or human heart (Matthew 13:38)
- Wheat = Sons of the kingdom (Matthew 13:38)
- Weeds = Sons of the evil one (Matthew 13:38)
- Harvest = The end of the age (Matthew 13:39)
- Harvesters = Angels (Matthew 13:39)
- Oil = The word of testimony (Matthew 25:1-13)
- Lamp = The spirit (Proverbs 20:27)
- Light = The word (Psalm 119:105)
- Tree = Person (Matthew 7:17-18)
- Fruit = Words and actions (Matthew 7:16-20)
- Mountain = Temple or kingdom (Isaiah 2:2-3)
- Sea = Multitude of people (Revelation 17:15)
- Stars = Spiritual leaders/angels (Revelation 1:20)
- Woman = Group of people/congregation (Revelation 12:1; 17:3-5)
Pedagogical Approach:
- Uses the Parable of the Weeds (Matthew 13:24-30, 37-39) as the foundational teaching
- Emphasizes that parables contain “more than just a moral lesson – they also have prophetic meaning”
- Establishes the pattern of two opposing forces (farmer vs. enemy, wheat vs. weeds, good seed vs. bad seed)
- Creates urgency: “Clearly, we don’t want to be like the weeds that get burned”
Repetitive Key Verses and Talking Points (Introductory Level):
- Matthew 13:10-11 – “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them”
Application: Only those who understand parables can know God’s secrets; traditional Christians remain ignorant
- Matthew 13:34-35 – “Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable”
Application: Everything in the Bible must be understood figuratively, not literally
- Matthew 25:1-13 (Parable of the Ten Virgins) – Emphasis on oil (word of testimony) and lamps (spirit)
Application: Believers must prepare oil (learn Shincheonji’s testimony) to enter the wedding banquet
- Proverbs 20:27 – “The lamp of the LORD searches the spirit of a man”
Application: The lamp represents the human spirit that must be filled with oil (testimony)
- Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path”
Application: The word provides light, connecting to the lamp/oil metaphor
Psychological Impact:
This level establishes the foundational interpretive framework that all subsequent teaching will build upon. Students learn that the Bible cannot be understood literally or through traditional Christian interpretation—it requires the special “key” of parable understanding that only Shincheonji possesses. The symbolic vocabulary becomes the lens through which all scripture is interpreted, creating a self-reinforcing system where every biblical passage can be reinterpreted to support Shincheonji’s narrative.
2. Intermediate Level: Bible Logic – Revealing God’s Blueprint
Core Teaching Focus: “God’s Consistent Pattern Throughout History”
Key Concepts Taught:
Important Note: Selective Biblical Coverage
Shincheonji’s Bible Logic level does not provide comprehensive coverage of every book from Genesis to Revelation. Instead, it employs a highly selective approach, extracting specific passages, events, and figures that fit the predetermined narrative of God’s cyclical pattern of betrayal, destruction, and salvation.
The curriculum strategically focuses on:
- Selected Old Testament narratives that demonstrate the 8-step pattern (Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Solomon’s temple destruction, etc.)
- Specific prophetic passages that can be reinterpreted to point toward fulfillment in the Tabernacle Temple events
- Carefully chosen New Testament passages that establish the framework for understanding Revelation
Large portions of biblical content—particularly passages that emphasize salvation by grace through faith alone, the sufficiency of Christ’s finished work, or the completed nature of biblical revelation—are either omitted, minimized, or reinterpreted to fit Shincheonji’s theological framework. This selective approach creates the illusion of comprehensive biblical knowledge while actually providing a curated narrative designed to support predetermined conclusions.
The Overarching Narrative
The Bible Logic level explains God’s unchanging method of working through repeated cycles across biblical history, from Genesis to Revelation.
The 8 Steps of Creation and Recreation (Verified Pattern):
- Selection of people
- Covenant establishment
- Betrayal of covenant
- Destruction as judgment
- Judgment pronounced
- Selection of new shepherd
- Salvation through new shepherd
- Re-creation of kingdom
Spiritual Maturity Progression:
- Biblical basis: John 3:3 – “No one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again”
- Teaching emphasis: “What was planted before must be pulled out and the new must be planted. This is being born again (Jer 1:10, 1 Pt 1:23)”
- Moving from milk (basic teachings) to solid food (mature spiritual understanding)
- Emphasis on “new wine, new education, new seed and the beginning of new creation”
Orthodoxy vs. Heresy Framework:
- Students are taught to “understand Biblically the meanings of orthodoxy and heresy (cult)”
- This creates the foundation for redefining traditional Christianity as “Babylon” and Shincheonji as true orthodoxy
- Establishes cognitive framework for inverting mainstream Christian criticism
The Place of Salvation in Each Era:
A central teaching in the Intermediate level is identifying where salvation is located in each biblical era, establishing the precedent that the “place of salvation” changes according to God’s current work:
- Adam’s Era: Garden of Eden (before the fall)
- Noah’s Era: The Ark (Genesis 6-9) – Salvation only for those inside the ark
- Moses’ Era: The Tabernacle in the wilderness (Exodus 25-40)
- Solomon’s Era: The Temple in Jerusalem (1 Kings 6-8)
- Jesus’ First Coming: Wherever Jesus was physically present (the disciples who followed Him)
- Early Church Era: The church established by the apostles
- Today (Revelation Era): Mount Zion = Shincheonji Church of Jesus
Application: Just as salvation was only available to those who entered Noah’s ark, salvation today is only available to those who come to the correct “place”—Shincheonji. Traditional churches are like standing outside the ark while the flood comes.
Repetitive Key Verses and Talking Points (Intermediate Level):
On the Changing Standard of Salvation:
- Genesis 6:13-14, 17-18 – God commands Noah to build the ark; only those inside are saved
Application: In Noah’s era, the ark was the place of salvation. Today, Shincheonji is the spiritual ark.
- Exodus 25:8 – “Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them”
Application: God dwells in a specific place; believers must identify where God currently dwells (Shincheonji)
- Joel 2:32 – “And everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved; for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be deliverance”
Application: Salvation is geographically specific—Mount Zion (interpreted as Shincheonji)
- Hebrews 5:12-14 – Milk vs. solid food; mature teaching for those trained to distinguish good from evil
Application: Traditional Christianity offers only “milk” (basic, incomplete teaching); Shincheonji provides “solid food” (complete understanding)
On Being Born Again and New Creation:
- John 3:3 – “No one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again”
Application: Being born again means receiving new seed (Shincheonji’s teaching) to replace old seed (traditional Christian doctrine)
- Jeremiah 1:10 – “See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant”
Application: The old must be destroyed (leaving traditional Christianity) before the new can be planted (joining Shincheonji)
- 1 Peter 1:23 – “For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God”
Application: New birth comes through receiving the imperishable seed (Shincheonji’s revealed word)
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
Application: New creation happens when believers join Shincheonji, the New Heaven and New Earth
On Orthodoxy vs. Heresy:
- Matthew 7:21-23 – “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven”
Application: Traditional Christians who call Jesus “Lord” but don’t recognize the fulfillment (Lee Man-hee’s testimony) will be rejected
- 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine… they will turn their ears away from the truth”
Application: Traditional Christianity has turned away from truth (Shincheonji’s revealed word) and follows false teachings
- Galatians 1:8 – “But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse!”
Application: Traditional Christian gospel (salvation by grace through faith alone) is a “different gospel”; only Shincheonji preaches the true gospel
Pedagogical Approach:
- Rigorous testing standards: Students must achieve 90% or higher on examinations to progress
- Scripture memorization emphasis: Heavy focus on memorizing specific biblical references and their corresponding verses, requiring repeated practice and self-testing
- Building scriptural fluency: The curriculum develops students’ ability to rapidly locate and cite biblical passages in conversation and evangelism contexts
- Retention through repetition: Multiple review cycles ensure long-term retention of key references and interpretive frameworks
- Confidence building: Students gain assurance in their biblical knowledge, positioning them as authorities who can “correct” traditional Christian understanding
- Pattern recognition training: Students learn to identify the 8-step pattern in multiple biblical narratives, reinforcing the expectation that this pattern must repeat today
Psychological Impact:
This level creates a comprehensive biblical worldview that makes students feel they understand the “logic” and “pattern” of God’s work throughout history. The intensive memorization requirements create a sense of expertise and mastery, while the high testing standards establish a meritocratic progression that rewards dedication.
The selective biblical coverage creates the illusion of comprehensive understanding while actually providing a curated narrative. Students begin to see themselves as biblically literate in ways that traditional Christians are not, establishing the expectation that God must work the same way today—through betrayal, destruction, and salvation—preparing students to accept Shincheonji’s narrative about the Tabernacle Temple as the inevitable fulfillment of this pattern.
The emphasis on identifying the “place of salvation” in each era establishes a powerful precedent: just as salvation was only available inside Noah’s ark, salvation today is only available inside Shincheonji. This geographic/organizational specificity of salvation becomes a key psychological lever for maintaining commitment and urgency.
3. Advanced Level: Revelation – Witnessing Actual Fulfillment
Core Teaching Focus: “The Fulfillment Happening Now”
Key Concepts Taught:
Transition to Urgency:
- Opening statement: “We’re here. We’ve made it to Revelation.”
- Increased commitment required: “Starting Monday, we’ll have four lessons a week”
- Rationale: “We have to endure, keep going, and work even faster to be prepared when God, Jesus, and the Kingdom of Heaven come down”
The Fulfillment Testimony:
- Biblical basis: Revelation 1:2 – “who testifies to everything he saw—that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ”
- Revelation 22:8 – “I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things”
- Core claim: Lee Man-hee is the “New John” who has “seen and heard all of the events of Revelation”
The 5W1H Testimony Method:
Shincheonji claims to provide precise, verifiable testimony about Revelation’s fulfillment:
- Who: Specific people (Lee Man-hee, Mr. Yoo, Mr. Tak, Mr. Oh, the Seven Messengers)
- What: Specific events (betrayal, destruction, salvation at Tabernacle Temple)
- When: Specific dates (1966-1984, specifically September 20, 1981)
- Where: Specific location (Tabernacle Temple in Gwacheon, South Korea)
- Why: Fulfillment of Revelation’s prophecies
- How: Through the pattern of betrayal, destruction, and salvation
Preparation Requirements:
- Prepare the lamp (the spirit)
- Prepare the oil (word of testimony) – “we’re really beginning to collect the oil”
- Prepare the wedding clothes (righteous deeds)
- Be sealed (become part of the 144,000 in Shincheonji’s 12 tribes)
Urgency and Fear Motivation:
- “We don’t want to be unprepared when that happens”
- “Why should we rejoice when we receive persecution? Because there are things that will happen in the near future”
- “We must endure and persevere”
- Emphasis on “the fulfillment of Revelation. All the prophecies that God has prophesied will be fulfilled in the days to come”
Repetitive Key Verses and Talking Points (Advanced Level):
On the Promised Pastor (New John / The One Who Overcomes):
- Revelation 1:1-2 – “The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants… He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who testifies to everything he saw”
Application: Just as Jesus sent an angel to John, Jesus sent an angel to Lee Man-hee (New John) to reveal Revelation’s fulfillment
- Revelation 22:8 – “I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things”
Application: Lee Man-hee is the New John who has personally witnessed all the events of Revelation
- Revelation 22:16 – “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches”
Application: Jesus sent an angel to Lee Man-hee to provide testimony about Revelation’s fulfillment
- Revelation 2-3 (Letters to the Seven Churches) – Repeated promise: “To the one who overcomes…”
Application: Lee Man-hee is “the one who overcomes” who receives the promised authority and revelation
- Revelation 10:8-11 – John eats the scroll and is told “You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, languages and kings”
Application: Lee Man-hee (New John) received and “ate” the revealed scroll and now testifies to all nations
- Matthew 24:45-47 – “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household?”
Application: Lee Man-hee is the faithful and wise servant appointed by Jesus to provide spiritual food at the proper time
- Luke 12:42 – “The Lord answered, ‘Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants?'”
Application: Reinforces Lee Man-hee’s role as the appointed manager of God’s household (Shincheonji)
On Buying Oil (Receiving the Testimony):
- Matthew 25:8-10 (Parable of the Ten Virgins) – “The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’ ‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.'”
Application: Believers must “buy oil” by attending Shincheonji Bible study to receive the word of testimony; those who don’t will be shut out of the wedding banquet
- Revelation 3:18 – “I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear”
Application: Believers must “buy” from the one who overcomes (Lee Man-hee) the refined word (gold) and righteous deeds (white clothes)
- Isaiah 55:1 – “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat!”
Application: Come to Shincheonji to “buy” the water of life (testimony) without money
On Fleeing to the Mountain (Coming to Shincheonji):
- Matthew 24:15-16 – “So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination that causes desolation,’ spoken of through the prophet Daniel… then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains”
Application: When you recognize the destruction of traditional Christianity (Babylon), flee to the mountain (Shincheonji/Mount Zion)
- Luke 21:21 – “Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those in the city get out”
Application: Leave traditional churches (the city) and flee to Shincheonji (the mountain of safety)
- Revelation 12:6 – “The woman fled into the wilderness to a place prepared for her by God”
Application: God’s people must flee to the prepared place of safety (Shincheonji)
On Coming Out of Babylon:
- Revelation 18:4 – “Then I heard another voice from heaven say: ‘Come out of her, my people,’ so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues”
Application: “Come out” of traditional Christianity (Babylon) and join Shincheonji to avoid judgment
- 2 Corinthians 6:17 – “Therefore, ‘Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you'”
Application: Separate from traditional churches (unclean) and come to Shincheonji (clean)
- Jeremiah 51:6 – “Flee from Babylon! Run for your lives! Do not be destroyed because of her sins”
Application: Urgently leave traditional Christianity before God’s judgment falls
- Jeremiah 51:45 – “Come out of her, my people! Run for your lives! Run from the fierce anger of the LORD”
Application: Reinforces the urgency of leaving traditional churches immediately
On Mount Zion as the Place of Salvation:
- Joel 2:32 – “And everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved; for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be deliverance, as the LORD has said, among the survivors whom the LORD calls”
Application: Mount Zion (Shincheonji) is the specific place where salvation and deliverance are found today
- Revelation 14:1 – “Then I looked, and there before me was the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father’s name written on their foreheads”
Application: The 144,000 sealed believers are gathered on Mount Zion (Shincheonji’s 12 tribes)
- Hebrews 12:22 – “But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem”
Application: Coming to Shincheonji is coming to the heavenly Jerusalem on earth
- Isaiah 2:2-3 – “In the last days the mountain of the LORD’s temple will be established as the highest of the mountains… Many peoples will come and say, ‘Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD'”
Application: Shincheonji is the mountain of the LORD’s temple in the last days where all nations will come
On Hearing and Understanding:
- Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22 (Repeated seven times) – “Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches”
Application: Only those who “hear” (accept Shincheonji’s testimony) can understand what the Spirit is saying; traditional Christians are spiritually deaf
- Matthew 13:15-16 – “For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them. But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear”
Application: Traditional Christians are spiritually blind and deaf; Shincheonji students are blessed because they can see and hear the fulfillment
- John 10:27 – “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me”
Application: True believers will recognize and follow the voice of the Promised Pastor (Lee Man-hee)
On the 144,000 and Sealing:
- Revelation 7:2-4 – “Then I saw another angel coming up from the east, having the seal of the living God… ‘Do not harm the land or the sea or the trees until we put a seal on the foreheads of the servants of our God.’ Then I heard the number of those who were sealed: 144,000”
Application: Believers must be sealed into Shincheonji’s 12 tribes (12,000 per tribe) to be protected from judgment
- Revelation 14:1-5 – Description of the 144,000 who follow the Lamb and sing a new song
Application: Only the 144,000 sealed in Shincheonji can learn and sing the “new song” (testimony of fulfillment)
On the First Resurrection and Eternal Life:
- Revelation 20:4-6 – “They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years… Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them”
Application: Those sealed in Shincheonji participate in the first resurrection and will never die
- John 11:25-26 – “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die'”
Application: Those who believe in the fulfillment testimony and join Shincheonji will never experience physical death
- 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 – “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven… and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air”
Application: The spirits of martyrs will unite with the physical bodies of sealed Shincheonji members at the Wedding Banquet
Psychological Impact:
This level transforms theoretical understanding into urgent, personal application. Students who have invested months learning parables and Bible logic now face the climactic revelation: everything they’ve learned points to Lee Man-hee and Shincheonji as the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.
The constant repetition of verses about “coming out,” “fleeing to the mountain,” “buying oil,” and “being sealed” creates intense psychological pressure to make an immediate commitment. The increased class frequency (four times per week) intensifies commitment and reduces time for critical reflection. The emphasis on preparation creates anxiety about being “unprepared” when heaven descends.
The identification of Lee Man-hee through multiple titles—New John, the one who overcomes, the faithful and wise servant—creates a comprehensive prophetic identity that seems to fulfill numerous biblical passages. The 5W1H testimony method provides a sense of concrete, verifiable evidence that distinguishes Shincheonji’s claims from other religious movements.
The geographic specificity of salvation (Mount Zion = Shincheonji) combined with the urgency of “coming out of Babylon” creates a binary choice: stay in traditional Christianity and face judgment, or join Shincheonji and receive eternal life. The promise of never experiencing physical death (first resurrection) provides a powerful incentive for commitment.
1. Promised Teaching
Open/Revealed Word:
- Initially sealed prophecies, communicated through parables, are plainly revealed during fulfillment
- Key claim: Only the Promised Pastor (Lee Man-hee) can open and explain the sealed scroll (Revelation 5)
Importance of Understanding Parables:
- Without first understanding parables, believers cannot discern the true Word of Testimony
- Traditional Christianity is spiritually blind because they interpret the Bible literally rather than through parables
God’s Will, Plan, and Purpose:
- Restoring His kingdom on earth through the establishment of Shincheonji
- Establishing eternal fellowship with humanity through the 144,000 sealed believers
8 Steps of Creation and Recreation:
This cyclical pattern outlines God’s consistent method throughout biblical history and is claimed to be fulfilled in the Tabernacle Temple events (1966-1984).
2. Promised Pastor
Role of the New John (Lee Man-hee):
- “The one who overcomes” (Revelation 2-3)
- “The faithful and wise servant” (Matthew 24:45-47)
- “The one who sells oil” (Matthew 25:9)
- Receives direct revelation from Jesus through an angel
- Witnesses and testifies to the actual fulfillment of Revelation’s prophecies
- Provides the 5W1H testimony that no other church can provide
Word of Testimony:
- True believers must accept and obey the Word of Testimony provided by the Promised Pastor
- This testimony represents the complete and tangible fulfillment of God’s promises
- Rejecting this testimony equals rejecting God’s revelation
- The testimony is the “oil” that believers must “buy” to enter the wedding banquet
Flow of Revelation: Betrayal, Destruction, and Salvation:
- Betrayal: The Tabernacle Temple’s seven messengers betrayed their covenant (1966-1975)
- Destruction: Babylon (represented by Mr. Tak’s SEC group) destroyed the Tabernacle Temple (1975-1981)
- Salvation: Lee Man-hee established Shincheonji as the New Heaven and New Earth (1984)
Urgency of Harvesting and Sealing:
- Current believers in traditional Christianity must be “harvested” (leave their churches)
- Must be “sealed” (join one of Shincheonji’s 12 tribes) to participate in the first resurrection
- Time is limited—the fulfillment is happening now
Salvation:
- Salvation is only available through recognizing and accepting the Promised Pastor’s testimony
- Must become part of the 144,000 sealed in Shincheonji’s 12 tribes
- Traditional Christian salvation through faith in Jesus alone is insufficient—must add faith in the fulfillment testimony
3. Promised Kingdom and Temple
Mount Zion (Shincheonji):
- Identified as “heaven on earth”
- The promised place where believers gather to escape judgment upon Babylon (traditional Christianity)
- Physical location where God’s kingdom is being established
- The specific geographic place of salvation in the Revelation era
Creation of the Twelve Tribes:
- Believers must be sealed into one of Shincheonji’s 12 tribes (144,000 total: 12,000 per tribe)
- This sealing is essential to enter heaven and participate in eternal life
- Emphasizes urgency of completing SCJ Bible studies for spiritual preparation
Destruction of Babylon (False Teachings):
- Babylon represents traditional Christianity with its “false teachings” (Trinity, salvation by grace alone, literal resurrection)
- God’s kingdom can only be established after believers leave Babylon
- “Come out of her, my people” (Revelation 18:4) interpreted as leaving traditional churches to join Shincheonji
- Judgment is imminent upon those who remain in Babylon
Wedding Banquet of the Lamb: Spirits and Flesh United:
- Heaven descends upon believers at the Wedding Banquet
- Spirits of martyrs unite with physical bodies of sealed Shincheonji members
- Believers become immortal beings who will never die (first resurrection)
- Only those with “oil” (Shincheonji’s testimony) can enter the wedding banquet
- Underscores the importance of accepting the fulfilled testimony and joining Shincheonji
Conclusion: The Comprehensive Roadmap
This verified roadmap reveals Shincheonji’s systematic approach to biblical interpretation and student indoctrination:
- The three-level structure progressively deepens commitment through carefully sequenced teaching that builds on previous foundations
- Selective biblical coverage creates the illusion of comprehensive understanding while actually providing a curated narrative designed to support predetermined conclusions
- Repetitive key verses and talking points
THEME 1: Testing and Discernment
1 Thessalonians 5:21-22; 1 John 4:1-3; Acts 17:10-11; Deuteronomy 13:1-5, Deuteronomy 18:20-22; Isaiah 8:20; Proverbs 14:15
THEME 2: Warning Against False Teachers and Prophets
Matthew 7:15-23, Matthew 24:4-5, Matthew 24:11, Matthew 24:23-26; 2 Peter 2:1-3, 2 Peter 2:18-19; 1 Timothy 4:1; 2 Timothy 4:3-4; Galatians 1:6-9
THEME 3: Scripture as Final Authority
2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:19-21; Psalm 119:89, Psalm 119:105, Psalm 119:160; Isaiah 8:20; Matthew 24:35; Hebrews 4:12
THEME 4: Context is Essential for Understanding
2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Peter 3:16; Luke 24:27, Luke 24:44-45; Acts 8:30-31; Nehemiah 8:8
THEME 5: Warning Against Adding to Scripture
Revelation 22:18-19; Deuteronomy 4:2, Deuteronomy 12:32; Proverbs 30:5-6; Galatians 1:8-9
THEME 6: Jesus’ Parables – Purpose and Interpretation
Matthew 13:10-17, Matthew 13:34-35; Mark 4:10-12, Mark 4:33-34; Luke 8:9-10; John 16:25, John 16:29
THEME 7: God’s Covenants Throughout History
Genesis 12:1-3 (Abrahamic); Exodus 19:5-6, Exodus 24:7-8 (Mosaic); 2 Samuel 7:12-16 (Davidic); Jeremiah 31:31-34 (New Covenant); Hebrews 8:6-13, Hebrews 9:15
THEME 8: One Mediator – Jesus Christ
1 Timothy 2:5-6; John 14:6; Acts 4:12; Hebrews 7:25, Hebrews 8:6, Hebrews 9:15, Hebrews 12:24; Romans 8:34
THEME 9: The Sufficiency of Christ
Colossians 2:9-10, Colossians 2:13-15; Hebrews 10:10-14; John 19:30; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 3:18
THEME 10: Salvation by Grace Through Faith
Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:20-28, Romans 4:4-5, Romans 5:1; Galatians 2:16, Galatians 3:2-3; Titus 3:5-7; John 3:16
THEME 11: The Gospel Message
1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Romans 1:16-17; Galatians 1:6-9; Acts 4:12; John 3:16-18; Romans 10:9-13
THEME 12: The Holy Spirit as Teacher
John 14:16-17, John 14:26, John 16:13; 1 Corinthians 2:10-13; 1 John 2:20, 1 John 2:27; Romans 8:14
THEME 13: Direct Access to God
Hebrews 4:16, Hebrews 10:19-22; Ephesians 2:18, Ephesians 3:12; Romans 5:2; Matthew 6:6
THEME 14: The Church as the Body of Christ
1 Corinthians 12:12-27; Ephesians 1:22-23, Ephesians 4:11-16, Ephesians 5:23; Colossians 1:18, Colossians 1:24; Romans 12:4-5
THEME 15: Universal Church, Not One Location
Matthew 16:18, Matthew 18:20, Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8, Acts 2:41-47, Acts 8:1; Ephesians 2:19-22; 1 Peter 2:9-10
THEME 16: Assurance of Salvation
Romans 8:1, Romans 8:38-39; John 5:24, John 6:37-40, John 10:27-29; 1 John 5:11-13; Ephesians 1:13-14; Philippians 1:6
THEME 17: God’s Unchanging Nature
Malachi 3:6; James 1:17; Hebrews 13:8; Numbers 23:19; 1 Samuel 15:29; Psalm 102:25-27
THEME 18: Wisdom and Understanding from God
James 1:5; Proverbs 2:1-6, Proverbs 3:5-7, Proverbs 4:7; Psalm 119:125, Psalm 119:130; Colossians 1:9
THEME 19: Recognizing False Doctrine
Colossians 2:8; 2 Timothy 4:3-4; Titus 1:9-11; 2 Peter 2:1-3; 1 John 4:1-3; Jude 1:3-4
THEME 20: The Fruit Test for Truth
Matthew 7:15-20; Galatians 5:22-23; John 15:1-8; James 3:11-12; Luke 6:43-45
THEME 21: Unity in Essential Truth
Ephesians 4:3-6, Ephesians 4:13-15; Philippians 1:27; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Jude 1:3
THEME 22: Freedom in Christ
Galatians 5:1; John 8:32, John 8:36; 2 Corinthians 3:17; Romans 8:2; James 1:25
THEME 23: Warning Against Deception
Ephesians 5:6; Colossians 2:8; 2 Thessalonians 2:3; 1 Timothy 4:1; 2 Timothy 3:13; 2 Peter 3:17
THEME 24: God’s Love is Unconditional
Romans 5:8, Romans 8:38-39; John 3:16; Ephesians 2:4-5; 1 John 4:9-10, 1 John 4:19; Jeremiah 31:3
THEME 25: Humility vs. Pride
Proverbs 11:2, Proverbs 16:18, Proverbs 29:23; James 4:6, James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:5-6; Philippians 2:3-8
THEME 26: Walk in Light, Not Darkness
1 John 1:5-7; John 8:12, John 12:35-36; Ephesians 5:8-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:5; Psalm 119:105
THEME 27: Renewing Your Mind
Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:10; 2 Corinthians 10:5; Philippians 4:8
THEME 28: Stand Firm in Faith
1 Corinthians 16:13; Ephesians 6:10-14; Philippians 1:27, Philippians 4:1; Colossians 1:23; 1 Peter 5:8-9
THEME 29: God’s Faithfulness
2 Timothy 2:13; Lamentations 3:22-23; 1 Corinthians 1:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:24; Hebrews 10:23
THEME 30: Seek Truth Diligently
Proverbs 2:1-6, Proverbs 23:23; Jeremiah 29:13; Matthew 7:7-8; John 8:31-32; James 1:5
In a world overflowing with information, it is essential to cultivate a spirit of discernment. As we navigate the complexities of our time, let us remember the wisdom found in Proverbs 14:15: “The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.” This verse calls us to be vigilant and thoughtful, encouraging us to seek the truth rather than accept information at face value.
As we engage with various sources and experts, let us approach each piece of information with a humble heart, always ready to verify and reflect. The pursuit of truth is not merely an intellectual exercise; it is a journey of faith. We are reminded in 1 Thessalonians 5:21 to “test all things; hold fast what is good.” This calls us to actively engage with the information we encounter, ensuring it aligns with the values and teachings we hold dear.
In a time when misinformation can easily spread, we must be watchful and discerning. Jesus teaches us in Matthew 7:15 to “beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” This warning serves as a reminder that not all information is presented with good intentions. We must be diligent in our quest for truth, seeking transparency and validation from multiple sources.
Moreover, let us remember the importance of humility. In our efforts to discern truth, we may encounter organizations or narratives that seek to control information. It is crucial to approach these situations with a spirit of awareness and caution. As Proverbs 18:13 states, “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.” We must listen carefully and consider the implications of what we hear before forming conclusions.
Let us also be mindful not to be content with what we read, even in this post. Always verify the information you encounter for potential errors and seek a deeper understanding. The truth is worth the effort, and our commitment to discernment reflects our dedication to integrity.
Finally, let us not forget the promise of guidance found in James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.” In our pursuit of truth, let us seek divine wisdom, trusting that God will illuminate our path and help us discern what is right.
As we strive for understanding, may we be like the Bereans mentioned in Acts 17:11, who “received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.” Let us commit ourselves to this diligent search for truth, ensuring that our hearts and minds are aligned with God’s Word.
With humility and courage, let us continue to seek the truth together, always verifying, always questioning, and always striving for transparency in our quest for knowledge.
- Lee, Man-hee. The Creation of Heaven and Earth. Gwacheon: Shincheonji Press, 2007. 2nd ed. 2014. Printed July 25 2007 | Published July 30 2007 | 2nd ed. printed March 1 2009 | 2nd ed. published March 8 2009 | 3rd ed. April 23 2014. Publisher address: Jeil Shopping 4 F, Byeolyang-dong, Gwacheon-si Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea. Phone +82-2-502-6424.Registration No. 36 (25 Nov 1999). © Shincheonji Church of Jesus — The Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony.
- Lee, Man-hee. The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation: The Secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven. Gwacheon: Shincheonji Press, 2015. Korean 7th ed. July 20 2011 | 8th ed. June 5 2014 | English 1st ed. March 12 2015. Publisher address: Jeil Shopping 4 F, Byeolyang-dong, Gwacheon-si Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea. Phone +82-2-502-6424.Registration No. 36 (25 Nov 1999). © Shincheonji Church of Jesus — Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony.
- Lee, Man-hee. The Explanation of Parables. Gwacheon: Shincheonji Press, 2021. First edition 19 Jul 2021. Designed by the Department of Culture (General Assembly). Produced by the Department of Education (General Assembly). © Shincheonji Church of Jesus the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony.
- Lee, Man-hee. The Reality of Revelation. Seoul: n.p., 1985. English translation titled Reality of Revelation (1985 Translation)