The lesson discusses the fulfillment of the Book of Revelation’s prophecies happening in modern times in South Korea, introducing the “betrayers” or “seven stars” group that initially taught truth but later betrayed and was destroyed, represented by figures like Mr. Yoo and Mr. Oh. It reveals the identity of the “new John” who witnessed and documented these events as Lee Man-hee, a 93-year-old referred to as the “chairman.” The “Shincheonji Church of Jesus the New Heaven and New Earth” established in 1984 is presented as the fulfillment of the prophesied “Mount Zion” made up of 12 global tribes. Being “sealed” by fully understanding the revealed word is emphasized as necessary to enter Mount Zion, while clarifying it as an ongoing process. Overall, it claims these events mark Revelation’s prophecies about the second coming of Jesus being fulfilled through this Korean church.

 

Study Guide SCJ Bible Study

The Work of Fulfillment at the Second Coming!

Jn 14:29, Jn 16:25, Rv 22:8,16

Our Hope: To understand how God and Jesus are working today!

These chapters are related to the one who sees and the one who hears.

Our hope is to understand how God and Jesus are working today. So to understand this, we first have to really have a strong grasp the time of the first coming.

1.- Why do we believe in Jesus?

Because the word promises that he’d be the light of the world in Isaiah, which means that content must be a prophecy. Which Jesus fulfilled. 

When I like to think about this question, I like to think first about the first people who believed in Jesus.

Because the disciples believed in him before he died on the cross. They believed in him before he talked about the deepness of salvation. They believed in him before he did many of his miracles.

They believed in him because Jesus explained to them the Old Testament prophecies. And that’s what Jesus was trying to explain to the people in John 5:39. You diligently study the scriptures because you feel that by them you have eternal life.

Well, these scriptures testify about me. 

So what are some examples of scriptures that testify about Jesus?

And prophesied Jesus? What are some things that he fulfilled?

1. Born of a virgin | Is 7:14 → Mt 1:18-23
2. Born in Bethlehem | Mic 5:2 → Mt 2:1-12
3. Minister in Galilee | Is 9:1-2 → Mt 4:12-17

So these are just a few of many different things that Jesus fulfilled. For example, telling his disciples to get him a donkey, Zechariah 9:9. So everything he did was according to prophecy. And that’s why the early Christians believed in Jesus, which is actually the foundation of our faith.

But when we were taught the gospel initially, we weren’t really taught from the lens of prophecy and fulfillment. Not really. A little bit, but not to the depth we’ve talked about in class.

So Jesus wanted to make sure people understood the importance of prophecy and fulfillment, which is why he said, I have told you now before it happens. When it happens, you believe. When it does happen, you will believe. Jn 14:29.

Told Before → Happens: Believe

(Prophecy)  → (Fulfillment)

And that’s actually how God has to work. Remember what I said about God? We cannot see him or touch him or sense him in normal circumstances.

So in order for God to make himself known, he can’t just do something out of the blue and expect us to know that it was God that did it. He first has to tell us. And then later on, when he makes it happen, we can reference what he told us and believe.

So prophecy is extremely important for people to know that God is at work.

 

2.- Four Types of Pastors

So how does God deliver prophecy? And what does God typically prophesy about?

There are four types of pastors:  

1. Pastors of Prophecy (Hos 12:10)
2. Promised Pastor (Shepherd) (Jn 5:39)
3. General Pastors (Acts 1:8)

Belongs to Satan

4. False Pastors (2 Cor 11:13-15)

So to understand what the pastors of prophecies do, like Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, they prophesy about the promise pastor who is to come. 

The general pastors testify about the promise pastor who came.

So Isaiah prophesied about Jesus, and Paul testified about Jesus. That’s the job of every pastor that needs to exist. 

So what about false pastors?

False pastors do three things: 

1. They hinder or slow down the work of God. 
2. They lie or slander.
3. They persecute. 

Persecution is the evidence that God is not with a person. Because God’s true people do not persecute.

A perfect example is in the book of Acts. Acts chapter 7.

Whoa. So Stephen, who was one of the seven deacons or elders appointed by the twelve disciples in Acts chapter 6, he was testifying the good news about Jesus.

But the Sanhedrin and the people were not trying to hear it. They were doing this, plugin their ears, la, la, la, la, la, la. And then they stoned him.

But what did Stephen say before he died? Forgive them. 

Do not hold this against them. So God’s true people love, and bless others. Versus what Satan’s people do, which is hinder, lie and persecute.

So really the place that is receiving the most persecution, which should grab your attention as God must be working in that place because Satan is fighting them the hardest. And that was certainly true at the first coming, but it’s also true in the second coming.

3.- Evidence of Promised Pastor?

So at the time of the second coming, there will be another promised pastor who appears.

What is evidence for this promised pastor? What are some verses that promise that a promised pastor must come?

So Jesus promised that a faithful and wise servant must appear. Of course, this faithful and wise servant cannot be Jesus because in this, Jesus is the master who goes away and returns.

This faithful and wise servant needs to give food at the proper time. What does proper time mean?

Can it be eaten at any time? No. It has to be eaten at the right time.

In the book of Revelation, the food at the proper time goes by a few other different names. What other names does it go by in the book of Revelation?

To the one who overcomes, I will give some of the…

Think about food, right? There’s food in Revelation that’s mentioned as several different types of food. There’s food on Satan’s side.

There’s also food on God’s side. And this food is similar to the food that fell and fed the Israelites when they were in the desert.

So how is it called in Revelation? Hidden Manna. Why is it hidden?

Because it is not revealed or given until the right time, fulfillment. 

So Revelation 2:17, the hidden manna is the same thing as the food at the proper time. It can also be called, from Revelation 10, the revealed or opened word. It goes by many names.

And the one who overcomes receives this hidden manna and is then tasked with delivering it to the churches.

So John says, I, John, verse 8, am the one who heard and saw these things. And then his job was to testify, being sent by Jesus as the messenger to the churches.

So Jesus sends someone at the second coming. We didn’t really realize this before we heard the open word, but now that the word is opened, we can know about this. So how do we get to this point where the word is being shared to the churches?

There’s a lot that has to happen before this time.

4.- Gospel Around the World

So we’re gonna go ahead and track the flow of the gospel. I’ll track the flow of the gospel for the last two thousand years.

Let’s understand Jesus’s statement about the gospel being preached as a testimony throughout the whole world, and then the end will come. This indicates that the last place to receive the gospel is where the end will take place.

Let’s track the flow of the gospel:

The gospel started in Israel. To understand this spread, let’s discuss it in terms of fire. What is spiritual fire? The spiritual fire is the word.

When you imagine a fire burning in a field, it spreads, but something interesting happens to the place where the fire originated. It burns until smoke and ashes remain. It burns out as the fire continues to spread.

This logic is consistent with how the gospel spread. Today, in Israel where it all began, not many people believe in Jesus.

The gospel spread in different directions:
– Apostle Paul brought it to Europe
– The Ethiopian unit carried it into Africa
– It spread throughout Europe, reaching the Romans and the barbarians
– Some disciples took it to places like Persia in the east
– In the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries, the Protestants had to flee from persecution, bringing it across the ocean to the Americas
– The gospel spread throughout the Americas
– Europeans sent prisoners to Australia, bringing the gospel there
– Through European influence, it reached the Indies and India

However, there are still places on the map that haven’t been fully covered yet.

 

However, there are still places on the map that haven’t been fully covered yet.

The Far East represents areas that have not yet been drawn or covered in the larger geographical context.

East Asia

God’s Pattern of Small Beginnings

God typically starts things in a small way, as evidenced by several key verses:

1. Zechariah 4:10 – “Who then despises the day of small things?”
2. Micah 5:2 – “Though Bethlehem are the least among the nations, out of you will come a ruler.”
3. Job 8:7 – “Though humble your beginnings are, prosperous will your future be.”
4. Matthew 13:31-32 – “The mustard seed, though it is the smallest of all garden seeds, it grows into a mighty tree.”

The fulfillment of revelation would not begin in powerful countries like the United States or England. Russia, being gigantic and very powerful, would not be the starting place either. Malaysia, despite not having a very small population, has a large footprint and landmass. Mongolia would not be the location either. China is gigantic with many people, not small at all. Japan is also too powerful to be considered.

When examining places in the East that are small and were among the last to receive the gospel, North Korea stands as the most isolated country on the planet. However, Korea in general is the focus. The fulfillment of revelation happens in South Korea, a very small nation and one of the last places to receive the gospel. There are similarities between Korea and Israel that demonstrate this connection.

Let’s examine the similarities between ancient Israel and Korea. These nations share not only comparable landmass but also similar historical events.

In Israel’s history, when Solomon introduced false gods, God became very angry. He declared, “I will tear the kingdom from the hands of your son, leaving him only one tribe, Judah, but he will lose the kingdom.”

Subsequently, Gentile nations – Assyria and Babylon – invaded and destroyed Israel. When invading nations conquered territories, they didn’t allow the conquered people to maintain their customs and traditions. Instead, they forced them to adopt Assyrian or Babylonian ways. This occurred in Israel for 70 years. Before this period, those who considered themselves true Jews migrated to the South, while the North became more Gentile as many Jews intermarried with the invading people.

This explains why people during the first coming didn’t like Samaritans or Galileans, though Jesus began his preaching in Galilee.

Similarly in Korea:
In the early 20th century, Korea existed as one nation. During World War II, Japan invaded Korea. Like Assyria and Babylon, Japan forced Korean people to:
– Stop their customs
– Learn Japanese
– Study Japanese history in schools
– Worship Japanese gods
They attempted to eliminate Korean culture.

Later, in the 1950s, the Korean War led to the division of Korea into North and South. During this split, many people tried to flee from North Korea to South Korea. North Korea became very secular, where their ruler/president is essentially treated as their god.

These parallel histories provide clues that God gave us to understand why South Korea is where the fulfillment of God took place.

So in Revelation 14, there are actually two harvests. The first harvest in verses 14 to 16 is the one we want to be part of. The second harvest in verses 17 to 20 is the one we don’t want to be part of, because the angel reaps the grapes that get crushed in the winepress of God’s wrath, causing blood to flow out.

This is figurative, where the blood rises as high as horses’ bridles. A bridle is the thing placed in a horse’s mouth to guide it. Looking at this logically, a trained horse cannot guide itself – it needs a rider.

A horse represents a person who is obedient to God. For a horse to know where to go, it needs someone sitting on its back – a rider. So spiritually, a horse equals a person. It’s like animal salvation.

If the horse represents people, then the rider should be the one who guides God’s righteous people. The pastor is actually the horse. God or a spirit should guide God’s righteous horses. As Isaiah 31:3 states, the horse equals flesh.

When Revelation 14:17-20 is fulfilled, there are those who have the job to speak about the winepress being crushed. The blood, which represents the word (there is good blood/word and bad blood/word), rises up to the horses’ (persons’) bridle, which is in the mouth. This travels for a distance of 1,600 stadia.

The footnote indicates that 1,600 stadia equals about 180 miles or 300 kilometers. This is like saying from New York to LA – coast to coast – representing the entire country. In Korea’s context, this is equivalent to the distance from Seoul to Busan, which is 300 kilometers, representing the whole country.

The Vine press spread throughout Korea, with people, like horses, speaking about the events that occurred. God provided a clue about this.

In the Bible, there are no coincidences – everything points to where fulfillment takes place. The exact location of fulfillment was in Gwacheon, a small town just south of Seoul, Korea’s capital city. God often begins things in a small way.

Understanding the pattern of betrayal, destruction, and salvation since the beginning of time can be seen through the first coming example:

John the Baptist started strong but ended weak. Jesus called him “the greatest” and “a lamp” – he was a lamp that burned and gave light. People enjoyed his light for a time. The light shone in darkness but was small in nature. When full light comes, the lamp is no longer needed.

The Pharisees noticed John’s small light and poisoned him and his disciples with their traditions. Jesus came to do the work of salvation and testified to these events.

The second coming follows the same logic: A small light is appointed by heaven, works for a time, is noticed by destroyers who then invade and destroy, followed by salvation.

At the first coming, the betrayers, destroyers, and savior were all Israeli. Similarly, at the second coming, the betrayers, destroyers, and savior will all be Korean. This is because they must be in the same place at the same time for revelation to be fulfilled.

5.- About Actual Reality

The instructor began by introducing the topic of betrayers, which prompted Student 1 to seek clarification about proving reality.

Student 1 referenced their previous question about proving Jesus never sinned, we believed it, because it is written in the Bible, but they expressing concerns about claims lacking eyewitnesses or documented evidence. They questioned whether such claims would be considered hearsay. How do we verify truth when it comes through a small, seemingly obscure group?

The Instructor responds by noting that:

Consider Jesus’s sinless nature – we accept this truth not because the entire world witnessed it, but because specific disciples, a relatively small group, documented their eyewitness accounts. They lived with him, observed his daily life, and recorded what they saw and heard. Their testimonies, though coming from a small group, became the foundation of this fundamental truth that billions now accept.

The Instructor built upon this parallel to address the modern context. Just as the truth about Jesus came through a specific group of witnesses who documented their experiences, current revelations might similarly come through a small group.

Student 1 expressed concern about the many false claims in the last days, citing examples of false prophets and self-proclaimed messiahs like in South Korea.

This led to an important insight about spiritual dynamics. The Instructor explained that the last place to receive the gospel becomes the most spiritually aflame. South Korea exemplifies this pattern – it houses the world’s largest church in terms of membership (even larger than Vatican’s St. Peter’s Basilica, as clarified in the discussion) and stands as the second-largest missionary-sending nation after the United States.

However, this spiritual intensity attracts Satan’s focused opposition. Satan’s strategy is clear: he works his hardest in places where God is actually working. He floods these areas with as much falsehood as possible, leading people to say, “Oh, those people are crazy. Everyone there believes that they’re Jesus.” Through this strategy, South Korea gets discredited precisely when God is actually working there.

The challenging question remains: How do we know if God is actually working in a place? To address this crucial matter of discernment, the Instructor turned to Deuteronomy 18, suggesting that God has provided specific criteria for distinguishing truth from falsehood, even when truth emerges from what appears to be an unlikely or discredited source.

This means that if someone makes a claim and it doesn’t come true, we shouldn’t pay attention to that person anymore. However, if their claim does come true, we should pay attention.

A discussion followed:

Student 1 pointed out that there are two major churches – the Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses – who have failed prophecies, yet people still believe in them.

The Instructor acknowledged this as unfortunate, and Student 1 further questioned how these groups justify unfulfilled doctrine and whether they acknowledge or hide their doctrinal changes.

The Instructor explained:
– Where God is truly working, the things that are said will come true
– It’s God who generates and fulfills prophecies, not people
– True people of God’s role is to observe and testify about what has already happened
– They don’t make predictions about future events
– Instead, they say: “This is what God has already done, at this location, with these people, in these ways”
– This pattern was demonstrated during Jesus’s first coming

The discussion concluded with reference to 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, which states that before the day of the Lord, there must first be a rebellion. Two events must happen before the day of the Lord can take place.

Paul warns us about the sequence of events that must take place for fulfillment:

1. First, there must be a rebellion or betrayal
2. Then, the man of lawlessness who is doomed to destruction must be revealed
3. Finally, the day of the Lord or the day of salvation can come

When asked who the betrayers are, the student correctly identified them as “the seven stars.”

In Revelation 1:20, 2-3, and 6, Jesus is described as holding seven stars in his right hand. Jesus sends letters to these seven stars through John. When they fail to repent, destruction begins to happen to them.

The actual church appeared in the form of the Tabernacle Temple, established in 1966. While people were enjoying discos and “shucking and jiving” during this era, the events of Revelation were actually taking place.

These people mentioned are the seven stars.

 

The Temple and the Seven Stars

The members of this group recognized themselves as the seven stars, which was evident in their temple’s design where they placed seven stars at the front.

Though they began with strong faith, their ending was not favorable. The temple’s structure was significant, reminiscent of Old Testament design, as shown in earlier diagrams. However, this temple no longer exists today, fulfilling Jesus’s prophecy in Matthew 24 that “not one stone will be left on another.”

Key Figures:
1. Mr. Yoo (father)
2. Mr. Yoo (son)

Mr. Yoo, the father, held a significant position as the middle branch of the seven stars. Jesus spoke to him directly, providing the words that made them lamps. They could interpret parables similar to John the Baptist, which attracted many people to their temple.

The Impact:
– Their new word drew many followers
– Guachan, initially a small town, grew substantially as people moved there to attend their temple
– New John was among those who attended

Historical Context:
During this era, South Korea was working to establish international recognition. The government formed a commission to investigate and suppress what they considered unusual groups. This commission eventually became the destroyers, representing the beast with seven heads and 10 horns (Referenced in Rev 2:15, Rev 13:1-2, Rev 17:5,7).

In the book of Revelation, certain figures are known by multiple names. One such group is the Nicolaitans, which we will explore further when studying Revelation.

The Nicolaitans originated 2000 years ago, founded by Nicholas, who was introduced in Acts chapter 6. Nicholas, like Stephen and Philip, was among the seven appointed. He was initially a Gentile who converted to Judaism, then to Christianity, before eventually forming his own separate group called the Nicolaitans. God used their name and actions figuratively to represent those who would appear at Revelation’s fulfillment, following a similar pattern.

These figures are also represented as the beast with seven heads and 10 horns, and as previously discussed, the prostitute.

Two key figures to note are:
1. Mr. Oh – identified as the Beast from the Earth and Wormwood
2. Mr. Tak – identified as the Beast from the Sea and Prostitute

[When a student asked about using only last names, the instructor explained it was for legal reasons.]

These men appeared at different times with distinct destructive roles:

Mr. Oh arrived first in 1975. Mr. Yoo’s son brought him in, believing he was a prominent religious figure who could teach new and deep teachings to those already teaching Jesus’s messages.

Mr. Oh represents the reality of the beast from the earth in Revelation 13, and Wormwood in Revelation chapters 8 and 9.

Wormwood, being a poisonous plant, contaminates water. This symbolism is significant because when a star (meant to be in heaven) called Wormwood falls on springs and rivers turning them to blood, it symbolizes how this figure began feeding people false teachings, leading to their slow spiritual death.

In Revelation 9, he receives the key to the shaft of the abyss, through which he lets in the beast.

The instructor explains that in Revelation chapter 9, these individuals are referred to as locusts. They entered the tabernacle in 1980, marking the beginning of the 42-month period of destruction.

During this time, these people forced others to stop teaching Jesus’s words. While some parables could still be taught, they had to start teaching established Christian doctrines, which God viewed as betrayal.

Mr. Tak is identified as the main head of the beast with seven heads and 10 horns. He represents the reality of both the beast from the sea and the prostitute.

In Revelation 17, he is described as the mother of dragons or mother of prostitutes, indicating his role in fostering others. Each of these pastors had their own churches. They invaded and destroyed what was once called heaven.

Revelation 13 documents this sad event. The New John was the one who saw, heard, and documented these events as a testimony for the gospel of Revelation.

The New John is identified as:
1. The one who overcomes (Revelation 2, 3 and 21:6-7)
2. The male child (Revelation 12)
3. New John (Revelation 1, 10, and 22)

In Revelation chapter 10, verse 7, he is referred to as the seventh trumpet and the seventh bowl, which is filled with the wrath of God.

[Student interaction preserved]
Student 2: “The one who overcomes. So, oh my gosh.”
Student 1: “Is he one of the seven stars?”
Instructor: “No, he was not one of the seven stars.”

The instructor then proceeds to introduce New John to the students.

[Showing Le Man Hee Photo]

This is New John, whose name is Lee Man-hee. In Korean naming convention, the family name (Lee) comes first, followed by the given name (Man-hee). The name Man-hee carries a meaningful significance in Korean, translating to “full of light” or “complete light.” This meaning is particularly fitting for the one chosen by God and Jesus to witness and testify about the events of Revelation.

We refer to him as chairman.

And let’s see why we call him chairman.

According to Hebrews 12:22-23, you have come to Mount Zion, to the church of the firstborn, where thousands upon thousands of angels gather in joyful assembly.

During the discussion about leadership, students learned that the leader of an assembly is called a chairman, similar to how Jesus was respectfully addressed as rabbi or teacher during His first coming. It was emphasized that using the chairman’s name directly would be considered disrespectful.

When discussing the chairman’s age, while he appeared to be around 70, it was clarified that he was already an adult during the events of the 1960s and 1970s, making him significantly older than initially assumed.

A student drew a parallel to Moses, who began his ministry at age 80, but the instructor indicated that the chairman was even older than that. The instructor suggested turning to a Bible passage that would demonstrate how God can use people of any age, promising a surprising revelation.

During a discussion about age and God’s servants, the instructor pointed out an interesting fact about Moses and Aaron. Unlike their portrayal in movies like “The Prince of Egypt” where they appear young and energetic, Moses was actually 80 years old and Aaron was 83 when they were sent to tell Pharaoh “let my people go.”

When a student mentioned that Jesus started his ministry young, the instructor emphasized that God can use anyone regardless of their age. This led to a discussion about Chairman Lee Man-hee, who witnessed the events at a young age and has been testifying for many years. Now at 93 (turning 94 this year), he continues his work.

The conversation turned to Chairman’s remarkable health and vigor. Despite his advanced age, when he speaks, he doesn’t sound like a typical 93-year-old. This was contrasted with a student’s mention of their 102-year-old grandfather who became very weak at that age.

The instructor highlighted how Chairman is still actively holding seminars and preaching worldwide, likely conducting a seminar in Korea at that time. There’s no retirement for God’s appointed person – he can’t simply retire to the beach.

When asked about his years of spreading the gospel (over 40 years), the instructor referenced 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. It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.”

The discussion concluded with the understanding that the Chairman must continue his work until the master returns – until the wedding.

The Discussion of Mount Zion and Shincheonji

The instructor began by noting the significance of someone being 93 years old, asking how close this indicates Jesus’s return. A student responded with “Hopefully very soon,” which the instructor affirmed, emphasizing the urgency of the time.

Regarding Mount Zion, when asked if it was about the new heaven and new earth under construction, the instructor clarified:
– Mount Zion represents people, not just buildings
– It’s a global gathering of people
– While gathering places are needed, the emphasis is on the people

The New Heaven and New Earth:
1. Referenced in Revelation 21:1
2. First established in South Korea
3. Name explanation:
– “Shin” = New
– “Cheon” = Heaven
– “Ji” = Earth

The full name “Shincheonji Church of Jesus” is significant because:
1. Jesus opened and fulfilled Revelation
2. Revelation 14:1 states: “Then I saw the lamb standing on Mount Zion”
– The lamb represents Jesus
– Therefore, it’s the church of the lamb, not of a person

The instructor referenced Deuteronomy 18, explaining:
– This couldn’t be humanly conceived
– For 2,000 years, nothing like this happened
– The events needed to be fulfilled by heaven
– The fulfillment had to wait for the proper time and era

The discussion concluded with reference to Revelation 15:5: “The temple of the tabernacle of the testimony.”

Who then, what did it say? For you alone are holy.

What all nations will do, they will come and worship at the temple of the tabernacle at Mount Zion.

[Clarification about Mount Zion]
A student questioned if everyone needed to be physically present at one location. The instructor clarified two key points:

1. Mount Zion represents people, not a physical location
2. Mount Zion is a church – not a building, but people gathering worldwide
This Church is identified as a branch of Shinchonji.

[Discussion about Tribes]
When questioned about revealing information before discussing tribal affiliations, the instructor mentioned they were near completion, with only three tribes remaining to be discussed in the following week. Through elimination, it would be revealed at the end.

Establishment of Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai was established on March 14, 1984 (3.14). This date holds special significance:
– 3.14 represents pi (π)
– Pi is used to calculate the circumference and area of a circle
– The circle represents completion, symbolizing God as the Lord of all
– Even mathematics points back to God

Organization Structure
Mount Zion is organized into 12 tribes operating worldwide, as referenced in:
– Revelation 21:14
– Revelation 19-20
– Matthew 19:27-28

The instructor explains that the Church they will belong to was established by the tribe. There are 12 tribes, and they are called after the names of the disciples. This fulfills the promise that Jesus gave to the disciples in Matthew 19. Their names are also written on the foundations of the Holy City.

Student 1 asks if being part of a tribe is determined by physical location.

The instructor explains that it is not determined by location, but by the person who invited them to the Church. One belongs to the same tribe as the person who shared the word with them. The instructor adds that Mount Zion can be depicted as a tree.

Student 1 then asks about being in Los Angeles and the possibility of local tribes there.

The instructor responds that while there might be local tribes, one remains connected to the place that taught them the word, because they gave them the seed they now have. They stay attached to that branch, regardless of where they are in the world.

Student 1 questions whether it would be more practical to attend a local church instead of connecting remotely online.

The instructor indicates that those details will be discussed later. They explain that there are many logistics to consider since this is a global organization. The instructor emphasizes that they are very organized, and when they finish studying Revelation, everyone will understand why everything is structured this way. There are reasons for everything.

The instructor offers to show the tribes.

The instructor proceeds to show two pictures, mentioning that more will be shown later. These images show the tribes of Mount Zion gathered together in one location. The instructor describes it as a beautiful sight – not just tens of thousands, but hundreds of thousands of people.

The discussion began about the colors of gemstones mentioned in Revelation 21, which represent the colors of each tribe. These colors are also reflected in the covenant ring’s design.

Since 2019, this teaching has reached many people, with three separate 100,000 graduations taking place. The instructor mentioned being part of the first 100,000 graduation in 2019 in Atlanta, which was streamed live from Korea.

When students inquired about joining Mount Zion after completing the class, it was explained that another graduation would occur in November. While attending in Korea is optional, students are welcome to go there. Though the church doesn’t sponsor the trip, they offer support and are known for being very welcoming.

The growth of Mount Zion was emphasized, highlighting how the “great multitude” prophecy is being fulfilled. This growth isn’t limited to individuals – pastors are also receiving this teaching. When pastors embrace this message, they share it with their congregations, leading entire congregations to join Mount Zion.

1.- The lesson content is being shared with students in groups at different times. Some students have not yet received this teaching, similar to how Jesus instructed Peter, James, and John to be patient and wait. It’s important not to spoil the experience for others – like revealing the ending of a movie someone hasn’t watched yet.

When a student asked why this couldn’t be revealed to the entire class at once, the instructor explained that this material would be revisited before starting the Book of Revelation. However, it’s beneficial for each student to have prior familiarity with the content to ensure smooth flow of the entire class.

The instructor then directed the class to read Matthew 17, noting that this passage would help them understand and relate better to the disciples’ experience.

The transfiguration was an amazing experience specifically for Peter, James, and John. Jesus instructed them not to tell anyone about what they witnessed until after the Son of Man was raised from the dead. This raises the question: Why weren’t the other nine disciples included?

As suggested, it may be because these three disciples were more spiritually mature than the others and better prepared to handle what they had seen. This maturity is evident in their later contributions, as Peter, James, and John went on to become significant writers of the New Testament:

– Peter wrote First and Second Peter
– James authored the Book of James

– John wrote extensively:
* The Gospel of John
* First John
* Second John
* Third John
* Revelation

Jesus didn’t permanently restrict them from sharing their experience; rather, He asked them to wait until after His resurrection so they could explain their experience to others in light of His return.

The lesson here is about patience – just as these disciples needed to wait for the right time to share their experience, the class should also be patient, as everyone will understand this before studying Revelation.

2.- The instructor addressed an important point about student behavior when studying scriptures:

The instructor noticed that when students begin to understand the teachings, they often get “itchy hands” and start extensively searching on the internet.

When a student commented that it was like “searching for evidence,” the instructor explained the problems with this approach:

1. Students encounter numerous different opinions from:
– People who didn’t understand the teachings
– Those who heard but left with hardened hearts
– People who never heard the teachings and just say “these people say strange things”

The instructor warned that this can:
– Cause one to fall away from the word of truth
– Generate questions about topics not yet covered

The instructor emphasized focusing solely on scriptures for the remainder of the class, citing 1 Corinthians 4:6: “Do not go beyond what is written.”

Understanding Revelation and Mount Zion

As Revelation approaches, there will be a comprehensive study of all 404 verses, going through chapter by chapter and verse by verse. After completing Revelation, those who choose to enter Mount Zion will begin their process.

Regarding Mount Zion Entry:
– People have refused to enter Mount Zion for various reasons
– There are four fields (referring to the parable of the soils)
– The key is to become the good soil and be determined
– No one is compelled or forced, as this isn’t God’s way

Requirements for Entering Heaven (Mount Zion):
1. Being sealed is a qualification
2. Everyone at Mount Zion:
– Knows the word
– Is born of the same seed (which is the word)

Understanding the Sealing:
– Those at Mount Zion share common understanding
– Example: If asked about the meaning of fire, they would reference Jeremiah 5:14 – “fire is the word”
– They would know historical details, such as the betrayers being the seven stars who appeared in 1966

Mastering the Content:
– One should be able to explain the teachings
– When asked about Revelation, one should be able to speak from understanding
– As scripture says, “out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks”

The content should be mastered to the point where explanations flow naturally from understanding, not mere memorization.

The instructor reassured the students:
– Everything would be explained
– All necessary information would be seen through scripture
– They should focus on the word, not people’s opinions
– Patience was needed as everything would be answered

The instructor concluded by noting they were more than halfway through the intermediate course, and this was only a teaser of what was to come.

Understanding Revelation and Mount Zion

As Revelation approaches, there will be a comprehensive study of all 404 verses, going through chapter by chapter and verse by verse. After completing Revelation, those who choose to enter Mount Zion will begin their process.

Regarding Mount Zion Entry:
– People have refused to enter Mount Zion for various reasons
– There are four fields (referring to the parable of the soils)
– The key is to become the good soil and be determined
– No one is compelled or forced, as this isn’t God’s way

Requirements for Entering Heaven (Mount Zion):
1. Being sealed is a qualification
2. Everyone at Mount Zion:
– Knows the word
– Is born of the same seed (which is the word)

Understanding the Sealing:
– Those at Mount Zion share common understanding
– Example: If asked about the meaning of fire, they would reference Jeremiah 5:14 – “fire is the word”
– They would know historical details, such as the betrayers being the seven stars who appeared in 1966

Mastering the Content:
– One should be able to explain the teachings
– When asked about Revelation, one should be able to speak from understanding
– As scripture says, “out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks”

The content should be mastered to the point where explanations flow naturally from understanding, not mere memorization.

Mastering the Word – Class Discussion Notes

The discussion began with Student 1 expressing concern about incorrect mastering, comparing it to telephone games where messages get distorted through adding and subtracting information.

The Instructor addressed this by explaining that while the class only runs for a few months, the sealing process continues at Mount Zion. The Instructor emphasized that students don’t need to be perfectly sealed to enter – they just need to understand the revealed word and accept its truth. While 100% sealing remains the ultimate goal, it’s an ongoing process.

The Instructor further revealed that some current students have already entered Mount Zion and are taking the class again. This repetition of hearing the word serves to increase their faith. Some students have taken the class multiple times, either as students or workers.

Student 1 clarified that mastering means becoming “a walking Bible.” The Instructor confirmed this, emphasizing that it requires deliberate effort and work. The Instructor noted that only John, who ate the open scroll, was exempt from this effort – everyone else must put in the work.

Student 1 expressed difficulty with memorizing numbers, to which the Instructor acknowledged the challenge but assured that it’s not impossible. The Instructor emphasized that this cannot be accomplished through human ability alone but requires God’s help, which comes when He sees sincere effort.

Student 2 then shared their personal journey, revealing that this was their second time taking the class. They explained that during their first attempt, their heart wasn’t in the right place, but now they were more focused despite still struggling with:
– Forgetting scriptures
– Mixing up scriptures
– Difficulty with recall

Student 2 also mentioned their previous instructor, Mario, with high regard, leading to a brief exchange about tribal affiliation. The Instructor confirmed they belonged to the same church and tribe.

The discussion maintained its focus on the importance of proper mastering of the word, the continuous nature of sealing, and the significance of having the right heart condition while learning.

 

A Discussion About Taking the Revelation Class

One student inquired if another student was taking the class for the second time. The first student asked if certain revelations had not been disclosed during the initial attempt.

The second student confirmed they already had knowledge about the seven stars and the New John from their first attempt, but acknowledged their lack of understanding regarding the tribe, as they hadn’t completed the entire Revelation study. They explained that during their first attempt, despite having an evangelist (whom they described as “like an angel”) teaching them, they couldn’t fully commit to the class.

The second student confessed that their heart wasn’t properly aligned at the time. They had questioned the length of the process and harbored negative thoughts. Now, they expressed a better understanding and appreciation for the importance of revision, small groups, and related activities.

The Instructor contributed by sharing a similar story about their cousin who also required two attempts at the class before entering. The Instructor explained the sealing process:
– One must be sufficiently sealed to understand Revelation 1 to 22
– Being aware of Revelation’s content and wanting to be part of this place is essential
– After entering, the work of sealing continues

The Instructor emphasized that perfection isn’t required immediately, but determination and heart to continue are essential. They stressed that those who stand firm until the end are saved – not because of perfection, but due to continuous effort. The Instructor concluded with a warning that it’s those who cease trying who fall off the horse, encouraging students not to fall off the horse.

 

[Student 1’s Question About Faith]
The student asked about their perspective regarding faith. As the fulfillments of the realities of the Revelations are being revealed, and because they are expecting Jesus to return based on faith, the student wondered what happens to faith. They questioned if they are no longer based on faith anymore.

[Instructor’s Response About Faith]
The instructor explained that in Babylon, they didn’t fully understand faith. People thought faith was simply believing because it made them feel good and gave them hope. However, the instructor clarified that real faith is actually based on knowledge.

The instructor referenced how Jesus often rebuked his disciples saying, ‘ye of little faith’ or ‘you of little faith.’ Jesus then had to teach them the word, and as they learned, their faith increased.

The instructor emphasized that one’s faith should be stronger after studying. If it isn’t, more study is needed. The instructor shared that their own faith in God and Jesus is the strongest it has ever been because:
– They understand God and Jesus more deeply
– They get how they work
– They get why they work
– They understand the logic behind what they’ve been doing

The instructor explained that faith and understanding are linked together. Understanding leads to perception, perception leads to faith, and faith leads to action. They emphasized knowing what actions God needs people to do today, and once on the mountain, to stay there and help others come too.

Organization of Mount Zion

The instructor explained that when entering Mount Zion, there are many roles within the organization, the church. Not everyone is an evangelist or an instructor. People work in:
– Culture department
– Worship team
– Graphics
– Tech department
– Various other roles

[Student 1’s Follow-up Question]
The student recalled that the instructor had mentioned they would be paired with somebody who had already taken the class, but they never heard about that again.

[Instructor’s Response About Workers]
The instructor responded that the harvest is plenty, but the workers are few. They explained that in this Church, many people are helping with two, three, or four classes simultaneously because there’s a class every month. Due to the leaves of the tree producing 12 crops of fruit monthly, they are very busy. That’s why the evangelists do extra to help.

 

Let’s Us Discern