This seems to be a religious lesson discussing the persecution faced by God’s followers, both during Jesus’s time and expected at the second coming. It warns that true followers will face persecution from those unknowingly being used by Satan, just as Jesus and his disciples did. It cites biblical passages like John 8 where Jesus said the religious leaders had become children of the devil through rejecting him. It suggests that at the second coming, there will again be a separation between those truly following God and those persecuting them while thinking they are serving God. It describes two “wars” – one where betrayers are defeated, and a second where the overcomes fight using the blood of the Lamb (scriptures) and testimony. The ultimate goal presented is to be part of the “new heaven and new earth” – the kingdom of victory that emerges after these prophesied end times conflicts play out. The main thrust seems to be preparing followers to expect and endure persecution as part of the events surrounding the second coming of Christ, drawing parallels to the persecution Jesus and early Christians faced.
Shincheonji holds distinct theological views that differ from mainstream Christian denominations, yet it also shares some common teachings. This overlap can sometimes blur the lines between their beliefs and those of traditional Christianity. Therefore, it is essential to exercise critical thinking and discernment to differentiate between these shared elements and the unique doctrines they present.
While their interpretations warrant careful examination through a critical and biblical lens, it is equally important to approach these matters with an open yet discerning mindset.
The following notes were documented in person during Shincheonji’s 9-month Bible Study Seminar. They provide insight into the organization’s approach to introducing and explaining its beliefs to potential new members, often referred to as the ‘harvesting and sealing.’ This process is described as being ‘born again’ or ‘born of God’s seed,’ which involves uprooting the old beliefs and replanting new ones. This uprooting and replanting must occur continuously. By examining this process, we can gain a better understanding of the mindset and beliefs held by Shincheonji members.
Today, we’re going to cover two important topics that will help us understand the difference between those on God’s side and those Satan is using for a time. We need to have compassion for those who haven’t yet received the word we’re receiving now and help them understand it. Let’s reflect on the grace God has given us and how far we’ve come since the beginning of this Bible Study.
We’ve progressed significantly, haven’t we? Who expected to be this deeply involved in the Bible when we started? Many of us thought we were coming to a casual study, meeting a couple of times a week to learn about being better Christians and good people. But things have turned out to be much deeper than we anticipated, thanks to God’s grace.
God is allowing us to grow slowly over time. Growing quickly often leads to growing pains. Think about those growth spurts some of you experienced when you were younger, suddenly growing three inches in a summer. It probably wasn’t the most pleasant experience.
Even though we’ve only been studying for a couple of months, our growth has been rapid. Don’t be hard on yourself if you’re feeling overwhelmed; it’s part of the growing process. Our goal is to help others grow too. These words aren’t just for this class; they’re for many people, nations, languages, and kings.
God needs people who have received His word to help deliver it, and that means you. An exciting aspect of this course is that those who want to volunteer will be given tools to do so. You’ll even have the opportunity to learn how to teach some of the early lessons, which will be a rewarding experience for those who want to immerse themselves in the word and teach.
Persecution and the Kingdom of Victory, New Heaven and New Earth
Jn 8 (Mt 10; Mt 25; Jn 16; Rev 7; Rev 14; Rev 21)
Today’s lesson covers two topics: persecution and the Kingdom of Victory, which represents the New Heaven and the New Earth. Important verses to focus on include John 8, which discusses the first coming war between those who belonged to God and those who no longer did. Matthew 10:25 and John 16 address the persecution of God’s workers when sent out. Revelation 7, 14, and 21 speak about the Kingdom of Victory and those who overcome.
Being a true child of God, a true son of God, and a true follower of Christ who understands God and Jesus’ current work means that persecution is inevitable. As stated in John 15, no servant is greater than the master. If the master was persecuted, his servants will also face persecution.
Persecution can take many forms, not just angry confrontations. It might be subtle, such as questions about your study time, concerns about your choices, or pressure to focus more on worldly matters. Someone does not want us to reach Mount Zion and will try to pull us away through various means.
While some persecution is unavoidable, we should be careful not to bring unnecessary persecution upon ourselves. Jesus’ parable of the rocky field illustrates this: the seed that springs up quickly with joy but lacks deep roots is destroyed by the scorching sun and rocky soil. This represents those who study but fall away when faced with trials, tribulations, and persecution that comes from the Word.
Instead of being the rocky field, we should strive to be the good soil that overcomes these challenges. Our hope lies in overcoming persecution and being victorious at the second coming.
1.- Persecucion
What happens to those who are sons of the promise?
They go through persecution. This has to be the case because persecution was prophesied about. It must happen. Who are the ones that are persecuted? And who are the ones that persecute?
Those who persecute belong to the devil. (Acts 7:51-60)
They carry out their father’s desire, the murderer.
Those who are persecuted belong to God. (Mt 5:9-12)
This has been the case since the very beginning of the Bible.
After the fall of man, who was the first to be persecuted? Abel.
Abel was the first to be persecuted after the fall of man. He was persecuted by his brother Cain, who was jealous because God chose Abel. Cain killed his brother.
God warned Cain, didn’t He? God said, “Cain, sin is crouching at your door. Be careful or it will have you.”
Those who persecute usually start off well. But over the course of time, they become weak and begin to betray the true word of God. Instead, they follow their own hearts and desires.
Let’s look at this example to understand clearly the difference between those born of God and those who are not.
9 No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God. 10 This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love his brother. 11 This is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. 12 Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother’s were righteous.
1 John 3:9-12
Who did Cain belong to? The devil.
Cain belonged to the devil. This is the reason he murdered his brother.
Murder is what the devil does. As Jesus said in John 8, the devil was a murderer from the beginning. He murdered Adam and Eve’s spirits, then he murdered their son Abel, and has continued to murder people for the last 6,000 years.
We should keep these things in mind so that we can discern between the evil ones and those being persecuted. To understand why persecution exists, we must go back to the first persecutor.
The Fallen Angel → Master Persecutor
In Ezekiel 28:11-19, let’s read about the first persecutor again. We haven’t read this in a while, but we need to see it clearly now.
11 The word of the Lord came to me: 12 “Son of man, take up a lament concerning the king of Tyre and say to him: ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: “‘You were the model of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. 13 You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned you: ruby, topaz and emerald, chrysolite, onyx and jasper, sapphire, turquoise and beryl. Your settings and mountings were made of gold; on the day you were created they were prepared. 14 You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for so I ordained you. You were on the holy mount of God; you walked among the fiery stones. 15 You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created till wickedness was found in you. 16 Through your widespread trade you were filled with violence, and you sinned. So I drove you in disgrace from the mount of God, and I expelled you, O guardian cherub, from among the fiery stones. 17 Your heart became proud on account of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisdom because of your splendor. So I threw you to the earth; I made a spectacle of you before kings. 18 By your many sins and dishonest trade you have desecrated your sanctuaries. So I made a fire come out from you, and it consumed you, and I reduced you to ashes on the ground in the sight of all who were watching. 19 All the nations who knew you are appalled at you; you have come to a horrible end and will be no more.’”
Ezekiel 28:11-19
Is this truly about the king of Tyre? No, it’s not.
Who is this referring to? Satan.
Did God create him as Satan from the beginning? No, He didn’t.
God initially created a guardian cherub. This guardian cherub was called the morning star in Isaiah 14:12-15. Being called a morning star indicates a high-ranking star. In the spiritual world, stars are angels.
So, he was called a morning star, which means he was a special star. The term “guardian cherub” implies one with responsibility or duty. Essentially, he was an archangel.
Guardian cherub is another way to describe an archangel. That’s who Satan was. But did you notice some of the details about what happened to Satan?
Although he was beautiful, perfect in beauty, and the model of perfection and wisdom, something changed. Verse 15 states: “You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created till wickedness was found in you.”
What wickedness was found in him? A desire to be God. To take God’s place. As we saw in Isaiah 14:12-15, “I want to raise myself above the stars of heaven and be like the Most High.”
Verse 16 mentions something interesting: “Through your widespread trade, you were filled with violence and you sinned.” Widespread trade.
Trading is like buying or selling. So what do you think Satan was doing? What does trading mean in this context?
He was selling his own ideology. He was saying to the angels, “Wouldn’t it be cool if we became God? I mean, I could be God. I think I can do His job pretty well. What do you think?”
Some might respond, “I don’t know. That doesn’t sound right. That doesn’t sound possible. Go away, please.”
He’d move on to the next one: “Wouldn’t it be cool if we became like God?”
“You know, I don’t know. I haven’t had that kind of thought before,” they might reply.
This is what “widespread trade” refers to. It wasn’t just him who sinned, but he began to cause other angels to doubt God and sin too. He persecuted them.
That’s what persecution means: to sow doubt, to push someone off the course they’re heading in.
But how could they doubt God when He was right in front of them?
This means that we shouldn’t doubt Satan’s ability to deceive.
Satan is exceptionally skilled at what he does. He’s so adept that he managed to lure angels away from God, despite their ability to see Him. It’s important to note that demons don’t disbelieve in God’s existence.
In fact, demons do believe in God, as stated in James 2:19. They recognize the Holy One of Israel. This is evident in how they addressed Jesus, saying, “Have you come to banish us? We know who you are. The Holy One of God.”
Their issue isn’t unbelief, unlike humans. Rather, their problem stems from wanting to replace God. They desire to be God themselves, driven by jealousy, pride, and greed.
Verse 17 mentions how pride corrupted Satan: “Your heart became proud on account of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisdom because of your splendor.” Consequently, he was cast down to earth, becoming a master persecutor.
From the moment he could begin destroying God’s creation, he did. He first targeted Adam and Eve successfully, then Abel, then Ham, and so on. Satan has been behind all the terrible things that have happened to God’s people from the beginning. We should be vigilant against him.
Unfortunately, many Christians today are taught that simply shouting Jesus’ name is enough to defeat Satan. Satan laughs at this simplistic approach, knowing it’s ineffective.
Satan is extremely crafty and knows what he’s doing. We cannot underestimate him, as doing so would be foolish.
While his ultimate strategy remains the same, his tactics change with each generation. In the early Old Testament days, he introduced different gods like Baal, the god of the Amalekites, the golden calf, and Babylonian deities to entice people away from God.
By the time of the prophets, people had become more committed to God. So Satan’s strategy shifted to creating a false god, pretending to be the true God, and planting false visions in people’s minds.
This is why prophets like Hezekiah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Daniel often had to combat those claiming to have received messages from God that weren’t truly divine.
During Jesus’ first coming, Satan worked through priests and teachers of the law to persecute those God was truly working with. He’s a shapeshifter.
So, who is Satan working through today? If we haven’t been considering this, we’re extremely vulnerable. Thankfully, since the beginning of the Bible study, we’ve been gaining understanding of how Satan operates even in modern times.
2.- Persecusion at the First Coming
Let’s turn our attention to John chapter 8. We will delve deeply into the topic of persecution during the first coming of Christ. By examining this, we can better recognize and understand persecution at the time of the second coming.
44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! 46 Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me? 47 He who belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”
John 8:44-47
Jesus was engaged in a spiritual war, as evident in John chapter 8. This war was between those who belonged to God and those who once belonged to God but no longer did. The latter group had unknowingly changed their spiritual fatherhood. If this happened 2,000 years ago, it’s possible it could happen again today.
We should not be arrogant in thinking we’ve always been doing everything right in our faith journey. Such thoughts do not come from a humble heart. Jesus had to make these people aware of who they had become and who was truly working through them.
The Pharisees and Sadducees were the main religious leaders of that time. Before Jesus came, they were perceived as righteous men of God. They were well-dressed, possibly well-scented, and certainly wealthy due to temple donations. They were respected, took seats of honor, and made sure everyone knew when they fasted or gave.
Then Jesus came. He was the opposite of everything the Pharisees represented. He wasn’t highly educated in their ways, wasn’t from the temple, and grew up in Nazareth. Born in a manger in Bethlehem, Jesus spent time with tax collectors, fishermen, and those considered unsavory by others. He began teaching in Galilee, which surprised many who expected the Messiah to come from Jerusalem.
Instead of genuinely listening to Jesus, the religious leaders often tried to trap him with their questions. When they couldn’t fault him, they resorted to lies and false accusations, calling him a Samaritan or demon-possessed.
Jesus’ method was to love, forgive, and bless, even saying, “Forgive them, Lord, for they know not what they do.” In contrast, those not being used by God lied, persecuted, killed, and hindered.
At Jesus’ first coming, people weren’t aware of the spiritual war taking place. The same war that had been ongoing for thousands of years was now manifesting in the physical world. Jesus had to explicitly tell them, “Your father is now the devil,” to reveal the true nature of what was happening.
Jesus needed to inform them because they were unaware. He said, “Your father is now the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire.”
In verse 44, it states that the devil was a murderer from the beginning. Who did Satan murder first? Spiritually, he murdered Adam and Eve, and then Abel physically.
The text continues, saying that Satan does not hold to the truth, for there is no truth in him.
The Jews then lived up to what Jesus was saying about them. In verse 48, they responded, “Aren’t we right in saying that you’re a Samaritan and demon-possessed?” Was Jesus a Samaritan? No, he was not. Was Jesus demon-possessed? No, he was not. They were lying, which was unfortunately their common practice.
Many people accepted these lies eagerly, thinking, “Jesus always seemed strange to me. Now I’m glad I don’t have to believe in him because the ruling authority said not to. I can continue living as I always have.”
The true persecutors, whom Satan was using, were the Pharisees, Sadducees, and teachers of the law, and unfortunately, the people of Israel at that time. However, Jesus said in Matthew 5:10-12, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of me, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Persecution is an inherent part of the process because Satan will fight; that’s what he does.
Jesus also said something important about the Pharisees and the blame that would fall on them for their actions. Let’s look at Matthew 23 to see what Jesus says about the Pharisees and Sadducees.
33 “You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell? 34 Therefore I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers. Some of them you will kill and crucify; others you will flog in your synagogues and pursue from town to town. 35 And so upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. 36 I tell you the truth, all this will come upon this generation.
Matthew 23:33-39
37 “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing. 38 Look, your house is left to you desolate. 39 For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’ ”
Jesus made a striking statement in verse 35. He declared that because of the actions the Pharisees would take, all the righteous blood shed on earth, from Abel to Zechariah and the prophets, would come upon them. This raises a question: Did the Pharisees actually kill Abel? No, they did not.
Jesus was pointing out that the same spirit was at work in all of these situations. He was telling the Pharisees that they were being used by this spirit. It was only a matter of time before they would carry out the same actions as those who came before them. As a result, the righteous blood would also be upon them because they would commit similar deeds.
This is a very sad realization.
We will continue with the rest of the lesson to examine how this applies to the time of the second coming.
3.- Reality of Faith at the Second Coming
Will I Find Faith?
I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”
Luke 18:8
Jesus spoke about something that can be easily overlooked unless closely examined. In verse 8, He was discussing the parable of the persistent widow. Jesus often taught through words or actions, and then prophesied.
He asked, “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” This refers to the time of the second coming. It’s a deeply sad question because Jesus knew what would happen after He ascended. He instructed His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, preaching His words.
Jesus was aware of what was to come. In John 9:1-5, He said, “While I am in the world, I am the light of the world, but night is coming.” Didn’t He promise this? In Matthew 13:24-30, Jesus also spoke of two seeds being sown in the same field. He knew Satan would continue his work of deception.
People who don’t fully understand often guess instead of being patient and waiting for things to take place. Let’s examine what people should have been doing.
Wait Patiently
2 Then the Lord replied: “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. 3 For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.
Habakkuk 2:2-3
Even if it takes time, wait for it. It will surely come and will not be delayed.
If you were a Christian in 1534 and asked your priest, “What does the book of Revelation mean?”, the priest should have responded, “These events have not yet occurred. We don’t know the meaning.”
We should wait patiently. That should have been the end of the conversation. However, that’s often not what the priest said.
So, what have people been doing for the past 2,000 years?
If anyone adds or takes away from the book of Revelation | Master Fulfillment
18 I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book. 19 And if anyone takes words away from this book of prophecy, God will take away from him his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book.
Revelation 22:18-19
John warned us 2,000 years ago about the consequences of adding to or taking away from the book of Revelation, and ultimately, any book in the Bible. What will those who do so receive instead? What will they lose and gain?
Plagues will be added to them, and they will lose access to the tree of life and the holy city, New Jerusalem – essentially, Heaven. This is promised to all who add to or subtract from Revelation. However, there are those who will not do such things. These are the ones who patiently waited and discarded all the additions and subtractions initially placed in their hearts.
Instead, they endeavored to master Revelation after it was fulfilled. This is crucial: mastering Revelation after its fulfillment is the only way to avoid adding or subtracting. Once it’s been fulfilled and you understand and believe what has happened, it becomes impossible to add or subtract. But if one forgets what has been fulfilled, they become like foolish virgins who run out of oil.
Even if they had received the truth, forgetting it leads to adding and subtracting again. We want to be those who, instead of adding and subtracting, master the book of Revelation and how it has been fulfilled. Mastering fulfillment is the only way to avoid adding and subtracting. If something has not yet been fulfilled, we should wait patiently.
This is what we should be doing. Those who add and subtract, who have their own ideas about how Revelation will be fulfilled, will be waiting forever to see it fulfilled according to their expectations. Instead of joining those who have received Revelation’s fulfillment, they will persecute them, saying, “No, you are wrong,” or “You are this,” or “You are that.”
But God and Jesus promised these things would take place. They promised this.
4.- Prophesied Persecution in the New Testament
God’s Workers → Persecuted both at the First and Second Coming
17 “Be on your guard against men; they will hand you over to the local councils and flog you in their synagogues. 18 On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles.
Matthew 10:17-18
Jesus warns his disciples that God’s workers will face persecution. These workers will experience flogging in synagogues or places of worship, and they will be silenced. The persecution will come from those who lack understanding and disagree with their message. However, these opponents won’t simply disagree and leave matters alone; instead, they will actively persecute God’s workers.
To gain further insight into the realities of those who are persecuted and the actions of those who don’t persecute, we should also examine Matthew 25.
God’s Workers (Sheep) → Imprisoned (and visit prisoners)
34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ 40 “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ 41 “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’ 44 “They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ 45 “He will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’
Matthew 25:34-36,40-45
Jesus was teaching us about the type of people we need to be. In the context of Revelation’s fulfillment, Matthew 25 discusses the individuals who participate in the events described in Matthew 24, which is like a mini-revelation.
Jesus speaks about the sheep-like believers who, among other things, will be imprisoned and will visit those in prison. Who will imprison them? Persecutors will be responsible for their imprisonment.
These believers will be put in prison. This situation is similar to the time of Jesus’ first coming, when figures like Paul and Peter, legends of the Bible, were imprisoned despite their innocence. They were brought before trial courts even though they had done nothing wrong. Persecutors will use the world’s legal systems to harm God’s people in any way possible. In essence, persecutors utilize worldly laws against God’s true followers.
Persecutors → Law of the World
Five days later the high priest Ananias went down to Caesarea with some of the elders and a lawyer named Tertullus, and they brought their charges against Paul before the governor. 2 When Paul was called in, Tertullus presented his case before Felix: “We have enjoyed a long period of peace under you, and your foresight has brought about reforms in this nation. 3 Everywhere and in every way, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with profound gratitude. 4 But in order not to weary you further, I would request that you be kind enough to hear us briefly. 5 “We have found this man to be a troublemaker, stirring up riots among the Jews all over the world. He is a ringleader of the Nazarene sect 6 and even tried to desecrate the temple; so we seized him. 8 By examining him yourself you will be able to learn the truth about all these charges we are bringing against him.”
Acts 24:1-8
It’s important to understand that these events will also occur during the second coming to those whom God is using. Keep this in mind.
Paul was dragged to court by his persecutors. They used the law of the world to persecute him. Notice how Paul addressed Felix, saying, “Great Felix, wonderful man, listen to our cries.” He buttered him up.
Similarly, at the time of the second coming, even the law of the world will be used against those at Mount Zion. When people hear about this, they might say, “Oh, I knew those guys weren’t true. Look, they’re in court.”
However, this shouldn’t be the standard by which we judge, because many righteous men were placed in court before. We shouldn’t use this as the standard during the second coming.
What is the mindset of a persecutor?
“All this I have told you so that you will not go astray. 2 They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God. 3 They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. 4 I have told you this, so that when the time comes you will remember that I warned you. I did not tell you this at first because I was with you.
John 16:1-4
People often justify their actions by claiming, “This is for God! I’m taking these actions for God!” That’s their mindset.
They believe they’re doing God a favor by stamping out this or that. In reality, they’re unknowingly doing Satan’s work while thinking they’re offering a service to God.
We shouldn’t attribute malice to these actions, but rather recognize them as stemming from ignorance and misplaced zeal.
Jesus taught that the only way to help someone in this situation is through love, forgiveness, and blessing. This approach ensures one remains faultless in the eyes of the world. Eventually, people may realize, “Oh, actually, this isn’t true. I’ve been misled.”
These events are promised to happen at the second coming, just as they occurred at the first coming. As stated in John 15, all who belong to Christ will face persecution because we are not of this world.
5.- The Kingdom of Victory, New Heaven and New Earth
It is promised to take place. However, we must overcome and become a part of the kingdom of victory.
So, as we end this last part of the lesson, we’ll see an all-familiar picture one more time and fill in the details more.
Who are those who overcome? Who are those in the kingdom of victory? It should be me.
Revelation 21:1 speaks about the disappearance of things that will no longer exist. It mentions the new heaven and new earth that must appear, and the first heaven and first earth that vanish.
At the second coming, the first heaven and first earth, also known as the first kingdom and first people, cease to exist. The new heaven and new earth come into being. As it states, “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. For the first heaven and first earth had passed away.”
The first heaven and first earth pass away during the first war when Satan invades. Satan works through his beast with seven heads and ten horns. They emerge from the sea, which represents Satan’s world as Leviathan. This is his domain.
They come out of the world and enter the tabernacle. Note that I’m speaking in past tense, as this has already occurred. When they enter the tabernacle, they destroy the people.
First war | War of Doctrines → First Heaven, First Earth Destroyed
He opened his mouth to blaspheme God, and to slander his name and his dwelling place and those who live in heaven.
Revelation 13:6
The betrayers mentioned in Revelation 2, 3, and 6 face destruction. The first war occurs between these betrayers, who believe they’re still on God’s side, and the destroyers, who are clearly not on God’s side.
This spiritual war, a battle of doctrines and words, results in the destroyers’ victory. They defeat the betrayers.
As we see in verses 4 and 5, “Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?” It seems impossible to defeat this entity. Thus, the betrayers lose in this first war.
We know Revelation describes the first war because it has been fulfilled. This understanding doesn’t come from simply reading Revelation, but from receiving testimony about its fulfillment.
This applies to all of Revelation – no adding or subtracting. The place mentioned is not a kingdom of victory, as it is destroyed.
Matthew 24:15-16 states, “When you see standing in the holy place the abomination that causes desolation… those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.” People must flee, not to any mountain, but to the specific mountain promised to appear at the time of Revelation’s fulfillment.
This mountain cannot be one that has existed for many years – 100, 200, or 300 years. A place that has been around for a long time, speaking a long-standing word or doctrine, cannot be Mount Zion.
Mount Zion must appear after betrayal and destruction. It must come after because that’s the flow of fulfillment according to 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, as we’ve mentioned many times.
Heart Condition
If you’re still trying to discern at this point, it’s actually a heart issue. Really check: Have I left the field? Or am I still in the field, calling it Mount Zion because there are people here that I like or love? This heart condition is keeping people in Babylon when they should have fled a long time ago. Flee.
In the first war, the betrayers and the destroyers are involved. The betrayers lose this war. They cannot defeat the destroyers.
Second War | Weapons used and Fought by those who overcome
Here is a revised version of the text, preserving the key vocabulary and ideas while improving readability:
The second war of Revelation must be fought by those who overcome. They fight using two weapons: the blood of the Lamb and the word of testimony.
Weapons used:
1.- The blood of the Lamb is the word. It represents the explanation of the scriptures and the parables that have been opened. This is essentially the open word, which is the first part of the Bible Study. You have been receiving the blood of the Lamb since the beginning of the study through the parables.
2.- The word of testimony consists of who, what, when, where, why, and how (5W1H). It involves real places, real events, and real people. This class is not about how Revelation may be interpreted. It’s important to understand that we are not dealing with conjecture about how things might be. Instead, we are discussing real people, real events, and real places that have appeared.
The testimony from the new heaven and new earth is now going out. As people hear it, they come in. This is not a class of speculation, but one of concrete testimony.
End Goal
The end goal of this class is not simply to say, “Wow, that was great. I really learned a lot about the Bible. Thanks, guys,” and then walk away. It’s not about taking a certificate and leaving, saying, “Thank you so much for teaching us very well.” That’s not the ultimate purpose.
The true end goal is to have a realization: “Oh my goodness, the mountain has appeared!” It’s about discovering a mountain you didn’t even know existed and wanting to be there. That’s where you should aspire to be.
The goal is to reach that mountain. That’s the real purpose of this class. It’s about real places, real events, and real people.
War Continues and be Won by Those Who Overcome
The destroyers have now united with the betrayers, becoming one entity. They now oppose those who overcome and give testimony.
It’s as if they were consumed, swallowed up together like one giant blob. They now stand against those who are striving to fight and overcome. Naturally, they bring much persecution, as those unfortunately used by Satan often do. They inflict great persecution on those on Mount Zion. However, those on Mount Zion respond with love, forgiveness, and blessings.
Let’s practice LFB (Love, Forgive, Bless) abundantly. As mentioned in Revelation 15:2-5, they established the TTT (Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony), the place where all nations must come to worship. These are the ones who overcame.
The second war is won by those who overcome: the male child and his brothers, who then assist the rest of the world in overcoming as well. Interestingly, there is a third war mentioned in Revelation, which we will discuss when we reach that part. This third war is essentially an extension of the second war.
Our goal should be to be part of the new heaven and new earth, the kingdom of victory. This is where we should aim to be. The ultimate objective of this class is to reach Mount Zion, the New Heaven, and New Earth. That’s our destination, and we should strive to get there quickly.
Memorization
44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me!
John 8:44-45
Let’s Us Discern
Analyzing SCJ Lesson 90: Persecution and the Kingdom of Victory, New Heaven and New Earth
A Comprehensive Analysis Using “Testing Shincheonji’s Claims: Two Lenses, One Story”
Introduction: When Persecution Becomes a Badge of Honor
Imagine being in a Bible study about persecution and God’s kingdom. The instructor teaches about overcoming trials, about being faithful under pressure, about the new heaven and new earth. Everything sounds biblical, even inspiring.
But then, subtly, the lesson shifts:
- “Being a true child of God… means that persecution is inevitable”
- “Someone does not want us to reach Mount Zion and will try to pull us away”
- “Those who overcome this world become the sons who inherit at the second coming. They become part of the 12 tribes”
- “They become those born of God’s seed, those who are harvested, and those who are sealed”
Wait—what just happened? We started with biblical teaching about persecution and ended with the implication that experiencing opposition (especially from family and traditional churches) proves you’re part of God’s special “12 tribes” at the second coming, and that questioning SCJ = persecution from the devil.
This is SCJ Lesson 90, and it demonstrates what Chapter 11 of “Testing Shincheonji’s Claims: Two Lenses, One Story” calls “Deceive, Deny, Revise”—specifically, the tactic of pre-framing criticism as persecution, making students believe that any opposition to SCJ is spiritual warfare against God’s work.
Let’s carefully examine this lesson, distinguishing biblical truth about persecution from psychological manipulation.
Part 1: The Setup – “You’re Growing, Don’t Be Hard on Yourself”
What SCJ Says:
The “Yeast of Heaven” and introduction include:
“If one really knows and believes the time they are living in, you will not look back at the world… If God is the Tree of Life, then shouldn’t we also become the trees of life so that we are the branch and part of the whole?”
“We need to have compassion for those who haven’t yet received the word we’re receiving now and help them understand it. Let’s reflect on the grace God has given us and how far we’ve come since the beginning of this Bible Study.”
“Who expected to be this deeply involved in the Bible when we started? Many of us thought we were coming to a casual study, meeting a couple of times a week to learn about being better Christians and good people. But things have turned out to be much deeper than we anticipated, thanks to God’s grace.”
“Even though we’ve only been studying for a couple of months, our growth has been rapid. Don’t be hard on yourself if you’re feeling overwhelmed; it’s part of the growing process.”
“These words aren’t just for this class; they’re for many people, nations, languages, and kings. God needs people who have received His word to help deliver it, and that means you.”
The Two Lenses Analysis:
What’s Biblical:
- Believers should grow in knowledge (2 Peter 3:18)
- We should help others understand God’s word (Matthew 28:19-20)
- Spiritual growth takes time (1 Corinthians 3:2)
- God’s word is for all nations (Matthew 28:19)
What’s Uniquely SCJ (The Psychological Setup):
- The acknowledgment that students are “overwhelmed” (but framing it as normal)
- The implication that they’ve been deceived about the nature of the study (“casual study” → “much deeper”)
- The superiority framing: “those who haven’t yet received the word we’re receiving”
- The recruitment setup: “God needs people… and that means you”
- The normalization of deception: “things have turned out to be much deeper than we anticipated”
- The pre-framing that any discomfort is just “growing pains,” not a warning sign
Biblical Refutation:
Let’s address the psychological techniques being used here:
1. Acknowledging Overwhelm While Normalizing It:
The instructor admits students are “feeling overwhelmed” but immediately reframes it as “part of the growing process” and “growing pains.”
This is a classic manipulation technique: Acknowledge the person’s discomfort (so they feel heard), then immediately reframe it as positive (so they don’t trust their instincts).
But Scripture teaches:
Proverbs 14:15:
“The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.”
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, that’s your mind telling you something is wrong. Don’t dismiss it.
1 Thessalonians 5:21:
“Test everything; hold fast what is good.”
Feeling overwhelmed is often a sign you need to slow down and test what you’re being taught.
2. The “We vs. They” Framework:
Notice the language: “those who haven’t yet received the word we’re receiving now.”
This creates:
- In-group (“we” who have received special knowledge)
- Out-group (“they” who haven’t received it yet)
- Superiority (we have something they don’t)
- Pity (we need to help them understand)
But Scripture teaches:
1 Corinthians 8:1-2:
“We know that ‘We all possess knowledge.’ But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. Those who think they know something do not yet know as they ought to know.”
If your “knowledge” makes you feel superior to other Christians, that’s a warning sign.
3. The Bait-and-Switch Admission:
The instructor openly admits: “Many of us thought we were coming to a casual study… But things have turned out to be much deeper than we anticipated.”
This is an admission of deception. Students were told one thing (“casual Bible study”) but are now experiencing something else (“much deeper” = intensive indoctrination).
But instead of apologizing for the deception, the instructor:
- Frames it as “God’s grace”
- Makes students feel it’s their fault for not expecting it
- Normalizes the bait-and-switch
Scripture is clear about deception:
2 Corinthians 4:2:
“Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.”
Paul says he does NOT use deception. He sets forth truth plainly.
Colossians 2:4:
“I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments.”
If you were deceived about the nature of the study, that’s not “God’s grace.” That’s manipulation.
4. The Recruitment Setup:
“God needs people who have received His word to help deliver it, and that means you.”
This creates:
- Obligation (“God needs you”)
- Specialness (“you have received His word”)
- Mission (“help deliver it”)
But Scripture teaches:
Acts 17:25:
“And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.”
God doesn’t “need” you. He invites you to participate in His work, but He doesn’t need you.
Any teaching that makes you feel God desperately needs you is manipulation.
Part 2: The Review – Setting Up the “12 Tribes” Framework
What SCJ Says:
The review states:
“Adam received the first inheritance, which was the Garden of Eden or the world. However, Satan, the enemy, stole the world from Adam… Satan has been ruling the world for 6,000 years.”
“To end this and receive the inheritance, Satan must be captured. There must be those who fight and overcome, just as Jesus overcame in John 16:33.”
“Those who overcome this world become the sons who inherit at the second coming. They become part of the 12 tribes. They become those born of God’s seed, those who are harvested, and those who are sealed. They become the sons of promise.”
The Reminder box states:
- Adam received inheritance first
- Satan stole the world, ruled for 6000 years
- To end this and receive inheritance: Dragon must be captured, Fight and overcome (Jn 16:33)
- Sons who inherit at the second coming = The 12 Tribes: Born of God’s Seed, Harvested, Sealed, Sons of the Promised
The Two Lenses Analysis:
What’s Biblical:
- Adam was given dominion over creation (Genesis 1:28)
- Satan has influence in this fallen world (1 John 5:19)
- Jesus overcame the world (John 16:33)
- Believers are called to overcome (1 John 5:4-5)
- We are born again through God’s word (1 Peter 1:23)
What’s Uniquely SCJ:
- The framework that “sons who inherit at the second coming” are a special group
- The identification: these sons = “the 12 tribes”
- The equation: overcoming = being part of the 12 tribes = being harvested and sealed
- The implication that this is happening now through SCJ
- The setup that there’s a special class of “second coming sons” who are the 12 tribes
Biblical Refutation:
We’ve addressed the “two classes of sons” error in our analysis of Lesson 89, but let’s focus on the “12 tribes” claim:
Who Are the 12 Tribes in Revelation?
Revelation 7:4-8:
“Then I heard the number of those who were sealed: 144,000 from all the tribes of Israel: From the tribe of Judah 12,000 were sealed, from the tribe of Reuben 12,000, from the tribe of Gad 12,000…”
SCJ claims these 12 tribes are:
- Formed at the second coming
- Born of God’s seed, harvested, and sealed
- The “sons who inherit”
- Their organization (specifically, 12 “tribe leaders” under Lee Man-hee)
But let’s examine what Scripture actually teaches:
1. All Believers Are “Israel”:
Romans 2:28-29:
“A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code.”
Galatians 3:28-29:
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
All believers are “Abraham’s seed” and part of spiritual Israel.
Philippians 3:3:
“For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh.”
“We who serve God by his Spirit” = the true circumcision, the true Israel.
2. The 144,000 Are Symbolic:
As Chapter 26, Part 10 of “Testing Shincheonji’s Claims: Two Lenses, One Story” explains, first-century Christians understood apocalyptic numbers symbolically:
12 tribes × 12,000 each = 144,000
12 = The number of God’s people (12 tribes of Israel, 12 apostles) 1,000 = Completeness, a large number 144,000 = The complete number of God’s people (all believers)
Revelation 7:9 immediately follows with:
“After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”
The 144,000 (symbolic, complete number) = the great multitude no one could count (all believers).
3. All Believers Are Sealed:
Ephesians 1:13-14:
“And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance.”
All believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit at salvation.
2 Corinthians 1:21-22:
“Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.”
“Both us and you” – All believers are sealed.
The sealing in Revelation 7 is not about joining an organization. It’s about God’s protection of all believers.
4. Overcoming = Faith in Jesus:
1 John 5:4-5:
“For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.”
“Everyone born of God overcomes.” “The one who believes… overcomes.”
Overcoming = faith in Jesus, not organizational membership.
The Dangerous Framework:
By claiming “sons who inherit at the second coming = the 12 tribes = born of God’s seed, harvested, sealed,” SCJ:
- Creates an elite class within Christianity
- Establishes organizational necessity (“join us to be part of the 12 tribes”)
- Diminishes all other believers (they’re not part of the 12 tribes)
- Sets up the persecution narrative (opposition = persecution of the 12 tribes)
This is what Chapter 8 of “Testing Shincheonji’s Claims: Two Lenses, One Story” calls “The Shifting Standards of Salvation”—adding requirements beyond faith in Christ alone.
Part 3: The Persecution Framework – “Those Who Oppose You Are From the Devil”
What SCJ Says:
“What happens to those who are sons of the promise? They go through persecution. This has to be the case because persecution was prophesied about. It must happen. Who are the ones that are persecuted? And who are the ones that persecute?”
“Those who persecute belong to the devil. (Acts 7:51-60) They carry out their father’s desire, the murderer.”
“Those who are persecuted belong to God. (Mt 5:9-12) This has been the case since the very beginning of the Bible.”
Using 1 John 3:9-12 (Cain and Abel):
“Who did Cain belong to? The devil. Cain belonged to the devil. This is the reason he murdered his brother. Murder is what the devil does.”
“We should keep these things in mind so that we can discern between the evil ones and those being persecuted.”
The Two Lenses Analysis:
What’s Biblical:
- Jesus was persecuted (John 15:20)
- Believers will face persecution (2 Timothy 3:12)
- Satan opposes God’s work (1 Peter 5:8)
- Cain murdered Abel out of jealousy (Genesis 4, 1 John 3:12)
- We should discern between truth and error (1 John 4:1)
What’s Uniquely SCJ (The Manipulation):
- The binary framework: persecuted = from God, persecutors = from the devil
- The implication that all opposition to SCJ = persecution from the devil
- The equation: questioning SCJ = being like Cain (a murderer)
- The setup that family/church concerns = satanic opposition
- The pre-framing that makes students unable to receive legitimate criticism
Biblical Refutation:
This is one of the most dangerous aspects of SCJ’s teaching. Let’s carefully examine what Scripture actually says about persecution and discernment:
1. Not All Opposition Is Persecution:
Yes, Jesus was persecuted:
John 15:20:
“Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.”
Yes, believers will face persecution:
2 Timothy 3:12:
“In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
But not all opposition is persecution. Sometimes it’s:
Legitimate Concern:
Proverbs 27:6:
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
When family members express concern, that’s often love, not persecution.
Biblical Discernment:
1 John 4:1:
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
When pastors warn about false teaching, that’s biblical responsibility, not persecution.
Accountability:
Galatians 6:1:
“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.”
When friends question your involvement, that’s often accountability, not persecution.
2. The Difference Between Persecution and Consequences:
Persecution = Suffering for righteousness’ sake (1 Peter 3:14) Consequences = Suffering because of your own actions (1 Peter 4:15)
1 Peter 4:15-16:
“If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, praise God that you bear that name.”
If you’re experiencing conflict because:
- You’ve been deceptive about your involvement
- You’ve neglected relationships and responsibilities
- You’ve become judgmental toward other Christians
- You’ve joined a group that uses deceptive recruitment
That’s not persecution. That’s consequences.
3. Jesus’ Persecution vs. SCJ’s “Persecution”:
Why was Jesus persecuted?
John 15:25:
“But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated me without reason.'”
Jesus was persecuted:
- For claiming to be God (John 10:33)
- For challenging religious hypocrisy (Matthew 23)
- For healing on the Sabbath (John 5:16)
- For associating with sinners (Matthew 9:11)
Jesus was NOT persecuted for:
- Deceptive recruitment practices
- Creating organizational hierarchy
- Claiming exclusive knowledge
- Dividing families
If you’re experiencing opposition because of SCJ’s practices, that’s not the same as Jesus’ persecution.
4. The Cain and Abel Manipulation:
SCJ uses the story of Cain and Abel to claim: “Those who oppose you are like Cain (from the devil, murderers).”
But let’s examine the actual story:
Genesis 4:3-7:
“In the course of time Cain brought some of the fruits of the soil as an offering to the Lord. And Abel also brought an offering—fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock. The Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor. So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast. Then the Lord said to Cain, ‘Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.'”
Why did God reject Cain’s offering?
Hebrews 11:4:
“By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead.”
“By faith” – Abel’s offering was accepted because of faith, not because he was part of the right organization.
Why did Cain kill Abel?
1 John 3:12:
“Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother’s were righteous.”
Cain murdered Abel because:
- Cain’s actions were evil
- Abel’s actions were righteous
- Cain was jealous
This is NOT analogous to:
- Family members expressing concern about SCJ
- Pastors warning about false teaching
- Friends questioning deceptive practices
To claim that concerned family members = Cain (a murderer from the devil) is:
- Biblically inaccurate – Cain murdered out of jealousy, not concern
- Psychologically manipulative – Makes students unable to receive legitimate criticism
- Emotionally abusive – Demonizes people who love them
The Pre-Framing Technique:
This lesson is pre-framing – preparing students to interpret future opposition as “persecution from the devil.”
When family members express concern, students will think: “They’re like Cain, from the devil.”
When pastors warn about SCJ, students will think: “They’re persecutors, I’m being persecuted like Abel.”
When friends question their involvement, students will think: “Satan is trying to pull me away from Mount Zion.”
This makes students unable to receive legitimate criticism or concern.
As Chapter 11 of “Testing Shincheonji’s Claims: Two Lenses, One Story” explains, this is “Deceive, Deny, Revise”:
- Deceive about the nature of the study
- Deny that criticism is legitimate
- Revise the narrative so all opposition = persecution
Part 4: The Fallen Angel and “Widespread Trade”
What SCJ Says:
Using Ezekiel 28:11-19 (about the king of Tyre/Satan):
“Is this truly about the king of Tyre? No, it’s not. Who is this referring to? Satan.”
“Although he was beautiful, perfect in beauty, and the model of perfection and wisdom, something changed. Verse 15 states: ‘You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created till wickedness was found in you.'”
“Verse 16 mentions something interesting: ‘Through your widespread trade, you were filled with violence and you sinned.’ Widespread trade. Trading is like buying or selling. So what do you think Satan was doing?”
(The document cuts off here, but based on SCJ’s typical teaching, they interpret “widespread trade” as Satan “trading” or “deceiving” angels, leading to the fall of one-third of the angels.)
The Two Lenses Analysis:
What’s Biblical:
- Ezekiel 28 describes the king of Tyre with language that goes beyond a human king
- Satan fell from his position (Isaiah 14:12-15, Luke 10:18)
- Satan is a deceiver (John 8:44, Revelation 12:9)
- Some angels fell with Satan (Revelation 12:4, 2 Peter 2:4, Jude 6)
What’s Uniquely SCJ:
- The interpretation of “widespread trade” as deception/recruiting
- The application to their own situation (warning about “trading” or being deceived)
- The setup for later teaching about “Babylon” (false Christianity) doing “trade”
- The implicit parallel: Just as Satan deceived angels, false teachers deceive Christians
Biblical Refutation:
Understanding Ezekiel 28:
Ezekiel 28:11-19 is a complex passage that uses language about the king of Tyre that seems to go beyond a human ruler. Many scholars see this as:
- Primarily about the king of Tyre – A human ruler whose pride is being judged
- With allusions to Satan – Language that echoes the fall of Satan
- Poetic/prophetic language – Using Eden imagery to describe the king’s fall from glory
The “widespread trade” in context:
Ezekiel 28:16:
“Through your widespread trade you were filled with violence, and you sinned. So I drove you in disgrace from the mount of God, and I expelled you, guardian cherub, from among the fiery stones.”
In the immediate context, this is about Tyre, a major trading city. The “widespread trade” refers to:
- Literal commerce – Tyre was a wealthy trading center
- Economic violence – Exploitation through trade
- Pride from wealth – Becoming filled with violence through prosperity
To interpret “widespread trade” as Satan “deceiving angels” is:
- Eisegesis – Reading into the text what isn’t there
- Ignoring context – The passage is about Tyre’s literal trade
- Forcing an interpretation – To fit a predetermined framework
What Scripture Actually Says About Satan’s Fall:
Isaiah 14:12-15:
“How you have fallen from heaven, morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations! You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.’ But you are brought down to the realm of the dead, to the depths of the pit.”
Satan fell because of pride – “I will make myself like the Most High.”
Luke 10:18:
“He replied, ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.'”
Jesus witnessed Satan’s fall – A past event.
Revelation 12:7-9:
“Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.”
Angels fell with Satan – But Scripture doesn’t detail how.
The point: Scripture gives us some information about Satan’s fall, but not all the details. We should be cautious about adding details that aren’t there.
The Implicit Warning:
By teaching about Satan’s “widespread trade” (interpreted as deception), SCJ is implicitly warning:
“Just as Satan deceived angels through ‘trade’ (lies), false teachers deceive Christians. Be careful who you listen to. Trust only us.”
This sets up:
- Distrust of other Christians – They might be deceived
- Distrust of other churches – They’re part of “Babylon” (false Christianity)
- Exclusive trust in SCJ – Only we have the truth
But Scripture says:
1 John 4:1:
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
Test EVERY spirit – Including SCJ’s teaching.
Acts 17:11:
“Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”
Even Paul’s teaching was tested against Scripture. How much more should SCJ’s teaching be tested?
Part 5: The Psychological Framework – Creating an “Us vs. Them” Mentality
Techniques Used in Lesson 90:
As analyzed through “Testing Shincheonji’s Claims: Two Lenses, One Story”:
- Acknowledging discomfort while normalizing it (Chapter 11) – “Don’t be hard on yourself if you’re feeling overwhelmed”
- Admitting deception while reframing it – “Things have turned out to be much deeper than we anticipated” (framed as “God’s grace”)
- Creating in-group/out-group (Chapter 6) – “We” who have received the word vs. “they” who haven’t
- Pre-framing criticism as persecution (Chapter 11) – “Those who persecute belong to the devil”
- Demonizing opposition – Comparing concerned family/pastors to Cain (a murderer)
- Establishing elite status (Chapter 8) – “Sons who inherit = the 12 tribes”
- Creating obligation – “God needs people… and that means you”
The Cumulative Effect:
By the end of this lesson, students have been conditioned to believe:
- Any discomfort is just “growing pains” – Don’t trust your instincts
- They’re part of an elite group – “The 12 tribes,” “sons who inherit”
- Opposition = persecution from the devil – Family concerns = satanic attack
- They have a special mission – “God needs you to deliver His word”
- Other Christians are deceived – Like angels deceived by Satan’s “trade”
- Leaving = being like Cain – From the devil, a murderer
This creates:
- Inability to receive criticism – All opposition is “persecution”
- Isolation from loved ones – They’re “persecutors from the devil”
- Dependence on the group – Only SCJ understands
- Fear of leaving – That would make me like Cain
- Obligation to recruit – “God needs me to help deliver His word”
The Contrast with Biblical Teaching:
SCJ’s framework:
- All opposition = persecution from the devil
- Concerned family = like Cain (murderers)
- Questioning = being deceived by Satan’s “trade”
- Elite group (12 tribes) vs. everyone else
- God “needs” you to deliver His word
Biblical framework:
- Test everything (1 Thessalonians 5:21)
- Listen to wise counsel (Proverbs 12:15)
- Honor your parents (Ephesians 6:2)
- All believers are equally children of God (Galatians 3:28)
- God invites but doesn’t “need” us (Acts 17:25)
Part 6: Testing the Claims – Questions to Ask
As Chapter 27 of “Testing Shincheonji’s Claims: Two Lenses, One Story” emphasizes, “Your Investigation Begins” with asking good questions:
About the “12 Tribes” Claim:
- If Galatians 3:28-29 says all believers are “Abraham’s seed, and heirs,” how can the 12 tribes be an elite group?
- If Ephesians 1:13 says all believers are “sealed… with the promised Holy Spirit,” how is sealing exclusive to the 12 tribes?
- If 1 John 5:4-5 says “everyone born of God overcomes,” how is overcoming limited to the 12 tribes?
About Persecution:
- If 1 Peter 4:15 warns against suffering “as a meddler,” could some opposition be consequences, not persecution?
- If Proverbs 27:6 says “wounds from a friend can be trusted,” could family concerns be love, not persecution?
- If 1 John 4:1 commands “test the spirits,” isn’t pastoral warning about false teaching biblical, not persecution?
About the “Us vs. Them” Framework:
- If 1 Corinthians 8:1-2 warns that “knowledge puffs up,” is feeling superior to other Christians a warning sign?
- If Jesus prayed for unity among believers (John 17:21), does creating division honor Him?
- If Ephesians 4:3 calls us to “keep the unity of the Spirit,” does labeling other Christians as “deceived” promote unity?
About the Deception Admission:
- If 2 Corinthians 4:2 says “we do not use deception,” is admitting students were deceived about the study’s nature acceptable?
- If Colossians 2:4 warns against “fine-sounding arguments,” should the bait-and-switch be a red flag?
- If you were told it was a “casual Bible study” but it’s become intensive indoctrination, is that honest?
Part 7: The Heart of the Gospel – Unity, Not Division
What SCJ Presents:
A gospel where:
- There’s an elite group (the 12 tribes) and everyone else
- Opposition = persecution from the devil
- Concerned family = like Cain (murderers from the devil)
- Other Christians are deceived (by Satan’s “trade”)
- You must join the 12 tribes to inherit
- God “needs” you to deliver His word
What Scripture Presents:
ALL BELIEVERS ARE ONE:
John 17:20-23:
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”
Jesus prayed for UNITY among all believers, not division into elite groups.
Ephesians 4:3-6:
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
“One body” – All believers “One Spirit” – The Holy Spirit in all believers “One hope” – Not different hopes for different classes
PERSECUTION IS REAL, BUT SO IS DISCERNMENT:
Yes, persecution is real:
John 15:20:
“Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.”
But so is discernment:
Matthew 7:15:
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.”
Acts 20:28-31:
“Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard!”
Pastors are commanded to warn about false teaching. That’s not persecution; that’s biblical responsibility.
HONOR YOUR PARENTS:
Ephesians 6:2-3:
“‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—’so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.'”
Even if your parents aren’t believers, you’re called to honor them. Their concerns about your involvement aren’t “persecution from the devil.”
Proverbs 23:22:
“Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.”
“Listen to your father” – Don’t dismiss parental concern as satanic opposition.
TEST EVERYTHING:
1 Thessalonians 5:21-22:
“Test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.”
“Test everything” – Including SCJ’s teaching.
1 John 4:1:
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
“Many false prophets have gone out” – This is why testing is necessary.
Acts 17:11:
“Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”
“More noble character” – Because they tested Paul’s teaching against Scripture.
If the Bereans tested Paul’s teaching, you should test SCJ’s teaching.
Conclusion: The Sufficiency of Christ’s Unity
Lesson 90 takes biblical truth about persecution and subtly twists it into a tool for:
- Isolating students from loved ones
- Demonizing legitimate concern
- Creating an elite in-group
- Making students unable to receive criticism
- Establishing organizational dependency
SCJ’s Framework:
- Elite group (12 tribes) vs. everyone else
- All opposition = persecution from the devil
- Concerned family = like Cain (murderers)
- Other Christians = deceived by Satan
- God “needs” you to deliver His word
- Leaving = being from the devil
The Biblical Framework:
- All believers are one body in Christ
- Test everything, including teaching
- Honor your parents and receive counsel
- Pastors warning about false teaching = biblical responsibility
- God invites but doesn’t “need” us
- Leaving a false teaching = obedience to Scripture
As Chapter 22 of “Testing Shincheonji’s Claims: Two Lenses, One Story” reminds us, “When Satan Tried to Hijack God’s Plan (And Failed Every Time)”—God’s plan is not about creating elite groups and dividing His children. It’s about unity in Christ.
Ephesians 2:14-16:
“For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.”
Christ’s purpose: “to create in himself ONE new humanity.”
Not two classes. Not elite groups. One.
For Those Studying with SCJ:
If you’re being taught that:
- Opposition to SCJ = persecution from the devil
- Concerned family members = like Cain (murderers)
- You’re part of an elite “12 tribes”
- Other Christians are deceived
- Feeling overwhelmed is just “growing pains”
- God “needs” you to deliver His word
Please consider:
- Not all opposition is persecution – Sometimes it’s love and concern (Proverbs 27:6)
- Testing teaching is biblical – Not satanic opposition (1 Thessalonians 5:21)
- All believers are equally children of God – No elite groups (Galatians 3:28)
- Honoring parents is commanded – Even when they disagree with you (Ephesians 6:2)
- Feeling overwhelmed may be a warning – Not just “growing pains” (Proverbs 14:15)
- God invites but doesn’t “need” you – He’s not desperate (Acts 17:25)
If your involvement is causing:
- Isolation from loved ones
- Deception about your activities
- Superiority toward other Christians
- Inability to receive criticism
- Constant overwhelm and stress
These are warning signs, not “persecution.”
1 John 4:1:
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
Test what you’re being taught. That’s not rebellion. That’s obedience to Scripture.
For Family and Friends:
If someone you love is being taught that your concerns = “persecution from the devil”:
- Don’t give up – Your love is not persecution; it’s genuine concern
- Be patient – They’ve been conditioned to interpret your concern as satanic
- Ask gentle questions – Help them think critically without triggering defensiveness
- Emphasize your love – “I’m concerned because I love you, not because I’m persecuting you”
- Provide resources – Share materials like “Testing Shincheonji’s Claims: Two Lenses, One Story”
- Pray – For truth to break through the manipulation
Chapter 28 of “Testing Shincheonji’s Claims: Two Lenses, One Story” provides detailed guidance for “Hope and Help – Guidance for Members, Families, Christians, and Pastors.”
Remember: Your concern is not “persecution from the devil.” It’s love. Don’t let SCJ’s manipulation make you doubt that.
Additional Resources:
For more detailed refutation of SCJ teaching on:
- Persecution and discernment
- The 12 tribes and the 144,000
- Unity vs. division in the body of Christ
- How to respond to the “persecution” narrative
Visit: https://closerlookinitiative.com/shincheonji-examination
The Shincheonji Examination section provides comprehensive resources for understanding and responding to Shincheonji’s teachings.
Final Thoughts:
The gospel is not about creating an elite group and demonizing everyone else. It’s not about interpreting all opposition as “persecution from the devil.” It’s not about isolating from loved ones who express concern.
The gospel is about unity in Christ:
Galatians 3:28:
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
The gospel is about testing everything:
1 Thessalonians 5:21:
“Test everything; hold fast what is good.”
The gospel is about honoring relationships:
Ephesians 6:2:
“‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise.”
The gospel is about humility:
1 Corinthians 8:2:
“Those who think they know something do not yet know as they ought to know.”
If your “knowledge” makes you feel superior to other Christians, if it isolates you from loved ones, if it makes you unable to receive criticism—that’s not the gospel.
That’s manipulation.
“Testing Shincheonji’s Claims: Two Lenses, One Story” – Available for those seeking to understand and respond to SCJ teaching with truth, love, and biblical clarity.
For more resources: https://closerlookinitiative.com/shincheonji-examination
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” — 1 John 4:1
Testing is not rebellion. Testing is obedience.
Concern is not persecution. Concern is love.
Unity is not uniformity. Unity is oneness in Christ.
That’s the gospel.
Outline
Understanding the Second Coming: A Deep Dive into Persecution and the Kingdom of Victory
I. Introduction and Course Overview
This section provides context for the lesson, highlighting the unexpected depth of the Bible study and emphasizing the importance of understanding God’s word and sharing it with others. It encourages patience during the learning process and prepares participants for volunteer opportunities.
II. Persecution and the Kingdom of Victory, New Heaven and New Earth (John 8; Matthew 10, 25; John 16; Revelation 7, 14, 21)
This section introduces the two main topics of the lesson: persecution, an inevitable reality for true followers of Christ, and the Kingdom of Victory, signifying the New Heaven and New Earth. It establishes the connection between overcoming persecution and achieving victory at the second coming.
III. Review: Sons of God and Overcomers
This section reviews key concepts from the previous lesson, including Adam’s inheritance, Satan’s theft of the world, the necessity of overcoming Satan, and the identity of those who inherit at the second coming as the sons of promise.
IV. Persecution
A. Understanding Persecution (1 John 3:9-12)
This subsection defines persecution and identifies persecutors as those belonging to the devil, who carry out their father’s desire to murder and deceive. It contrasts them with those persecuted, who belong to God and are marked by their love for one another.
B. The Fallen Angel: Master Persecutor (Ezekiel 28:11-19; Isaiah 14:12-15)
This subsection analyzes the origins of persecution, tracing it back to the fallen angel, Satan. It explores his initial perfection and subsequent fall due to pride and desire to replace God. It highlights his “widespread trade,” the act of deceiving and persecuting angels by sowing doubt about God.
C. Satan’s Deception and Tactics
This subsection emphasizes the danger of underestimating Satan’s deception, as he successfully lured even angels away from God. It outlines his evolving tactics throughout history, from introducing false gods to creating a false god and planting false visions. It stresses the need to be vigilant against his modern-day deceptions.
V. Persecution at the First Coming (John 8:44-47; Matthew 23:33-39)
This section analyzes persecution during Jesus’ first coming, focusing on the spiritual war between those belonging to God and those who had unknowingly switched their spiritual fatherhood to the devil. It exposes the Pharisees’ hypocrisy and their role as persecutors who lied and opposed Jesus, ultimately leading to the shedding of righteous blood.
VI. Reality of Faith at the Second Coming (Luke 18:8; Habakkuk 2:2-3; Revelation 22:18-19)
This section addresses Jesus’ concern about the lack of faith at his second coming, emphasizing the need for patient waiting and avoiding adding to or taking away from Revelation. It stresses the importance of mastering Revelation after its fulfillment to avoid falling into the trap of misinterpretations and persecution of those who have received the truth.
VII. Prophesied Persecution in the New Testament
A. Persecution of God’s Workers (Matthew 10:17-18; 25:34-36, 40-45)
This subsection examines the prophesied persecution of God’s workers at both the first and second coming. It highlights the imprisonment and mistreatment they will face at the hands of those lacking understanding and actively opposing their message. It urges believers to be like sheep who visit and care for those imprisoned for their faith.
B. Persecutors and the Law of the World (Acts 24:1-8)
This subsection reveals how persecutors manipulate worldly laws to harm God’s people, exemplified by Paul’s unjust trial. It cautions against judging believers based on worldly legal systems and emphasizes that righteousness does not guarantee immunity from persecution.
C. Mindset of a Persecutor (John 16:1-4)
This subsection analyzes the persecutor’s mindset, characterized by the belief that they are serving God by eliminating perceived threats. It attributes their actions to ignorance and misplaced zeal rather than malice and emphasizes the importance of responding with love, forgiveness, and blessing.
VIII. The Kingdom of Victory, New Heaven and New Earth (Revelation 21:1; 13:6; Matthew 24:15-16; Revelation 15:2-5)
This section describes the Kingdom of Victory as the new heaven and new earth, established after the destruction of the first heaven and first earth in a series of wars. It outlines the first war as a battle of doctrines between betrayers and destroyers, leading to the destruction of those who fail to flee to Mount Zion. It details the second war, fought by those who overcome using the blood of the Lamb (open word of scripture) and the word of testimony (real people, events, and places). This section stresses the importance of recognizing and fleeing to Mount Zion, the true place of victory and gathering for all nations.
IX. Summary and Review
This section summarizes the key points discussed in the lesson, reiterating the importance of understanding persecution, waiting patiently for Revelation’s fulfillment, recognizing the persecution faced by God’s workers, and striving to reach the Kingdom of Victory, the New Heaven and New Earth. It calls for active participation in the ongoing spiritual war, urging believers to be on the winning side.
A Study Guide
The Kingdom of Victory: Understanding Persecution and the New Heaven and New Earth
Short Answer Quiz
- Describe the two types of people discussed in this lesson and how they relate to persecution.
- Explain the concept of “widespread trade” as it relates to Satan’s actions in Ezekiel 28.
- How did Jesus expose the spiritual reality of the Pharisees and Sadducees in John 8?
- According to Matthew 23:35, why does Jesus say that the righteous blood shed on earth will come upon the Pharisees?
- What is the significance of Jesus’ question in Luke 18:8, “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”
- Explain what it means to “master Revelation after its fulfillment” and why it is crucial in understanding the book.
- How will persecutors use the law of the world against God’s people, according to the lesson?
- What is the mindset of a persecutor, as described in John 16:1-4?
- Describe the two weapons used by those who overcome in the second war of Revelation.
- What is the ultimate goal of this class, according to the summary?
Answer Key
- The lesson describes those who belong to the devil as persecutors, while those born of God’s seed are persecuted. This dynamic is presented as an ongoing struggle throughout history.
- “Widespread trade” refers to Satan’s persuasive efforts to convince other angels to doubt God and join his rebellion. He “traded” his ideology, spreading his desire to replace God and sowing discord among the heavenly host.
- In John 8, Jesus directly confronted the Pharisees and Sadducees, revealing their true spiritual father to be the devil. He exposed their hypocrisy and highlighted their lies and murderous intentions, contrasting them with his own message of truth and love.
- Jesus states that the same persecuting spirit that led to the deaths of righteous individuals like Abel and Zechariah is at work in the Pharisees. Their actions align with this spirit, making them responsible for the ongoing bloodshed of the righteous.
- This question underscores Jesus’ concern that despite his teachings and the spread of the gospel, faith might be scarce at the time of his second coming due to deception and the influence of darkness.
- “Mastering Revelation after its fulfillment” involves understanding the events described in the book in light of their actual occurrence. This approach eliminates speculation and prevents misinterpretations or additions to the prophecy.
- The lesson indicates that persecutors will utilize legal systems and worldly authorities to persecute God’s people, just as they did with individuals like Paul in the early church.
- Persecutors often act out of a misguided sense of righteousness, believing they are serving God by suppressing or eliminating what they perceive as wrong. They are unaware of their true allegiance to Satan and the destructive nature of their actions.
- The two weapons are the blood of the Lamb, which represents the revealed word of God, particularly the understanding of scripture and parables, and the word of testimony, which includes tangible evidence and accounts of real people, events, and places involved in Revelation’s fulfillment.
- The ultimate goal of the class is to guide individuals towards Mount Zion, the New Heaven and New Earth, by fostering understanding of persecution, the fulfillment of Revelation, and the call to overcome.
Additional Questions
1. Who persecutes who?
– Those who belong to devil persecute those who belong to God
2. Today, who would persecute God’s work the most? Who are they persecuting?
Persecutors: Pastors and saints of traditional churches
Persecuted: 12 Tribes of New Heaven and New Earth
3. What is God’s Kingdom today? What is needed for it to be established?
God’s kingdom today = 12 tribes of New Heaven and New Earth
It is established by overcoming
Glossary of Key Terms
- Persecution: Active oppression or hostility directed towards individuals or groups based on their faith or beliefs.
- Kingdom of Victory: The New Heaven and New Earth, a future reality where God’s reign is fully established and those who overcome inherit eternal life.
- First Heaven and First Earth: The current world order, marked by sin, suffering, and the influence of Satan, which will eventually pass away.
- Widespread Trade: Satan’s deceptive strategy to persuade others to doubt and rebel against God, spreading his ideology and sowing discord.
- Betrayers: Those who once belonged to God but have turned away from the truth, often unknowingly serving Satan’s agenda.
- Destroyers: Those actively aligned with Satan, working to undermine God’s plan and persecute His followers.
- Blood of the Lamb: Represents the revealed word of God, specifically the understanding of scripture and parables, which provides spiritual strength and insight to overcome.
- Word of Testimony: Includes tangible evidence and accounts of real people, events, and places involved in Revelation’s fulfillment, confirming the truth and exposing deception.
- Mastering Fulfillment: Understanding the events described in Revelation in light of their actual occurrence, eliminating speculation and preventing misinterpretations.
- Mount Zion: The symbolic representation of the dwelling place of God and His people, often associated with the New Jerusalem in the Kingdom of Victory.
Breakdown
Timeline of Events
This timeline is constructed based on the provided lesson, which presents a specific interpretation of biblical events. It’s important to note that this interpretation is not universally accepted within Christianity.
Before Creation:
- God creates Satan as a perfect and beautiful angel, a guardian cherub.
The Fall:
- Satan, driven by pride and a desire to be like God, rebels and corrupts other angels.
- Satan tempts Adam and Eve, leading to their spiritual and physical death.
- Cain, influenced by Satan, murders his brother Abel, marking the beginning of persecution against God’s followers.
- Satan’s rule over the world begins, bringing death, pain, and sin.
Old Testament Era:
- Satan deceives humanity through false gods and prophets, leading them away from the true God.
Jesus’ First Coming:
- Satan works through the religious leaders of the time – the Pharisees, Sadducees, and teachers of the law – to persecute Jesus and his disciples.
- Jesus exposes their hypocrisy and reveals that they are unknowingly serving Satan.
- Jesus predicts future persecution of his followers.
- Despite facing persecution, Jesus and his disciples spread the Gospel and offer love and forgiveness to their enemies.
Period Between the First and Second Coming:
- Satan continues to deceive humanity by distorting the true meaning of the Bible, especially the book of Revelation.
- Many misinterpret Revelation, adding to or taking away from its message.
The First War (Spiritual War of Doctrines):
- The “destroyers” (forces aligned with Satan) emerge from the world and enter the tabernacle (symbolic of the church).
- They engage in a war of doctrines against the “betrayers” (those who claim to follow God but have been deceived).
- The destroyers win the first war, destroying the betrayers and the “first heaven and first earth.”
The Second War:
- Those who have overcome Satan’s deception and reached Mount Zion (the true church) fight the destroyers using the “blood of the Lamb” (understanding of scripture) and the “word of testimony” (witness of fulfilled prophecy).
- This war involves real people, events, and places related to the fulfillment of Revelation.
- The persecutors, believing they are serving God, use worldly laws and systems to attack God’s true followers.
- Those on Mount Zion endure persecution but respond with love, forgiveness, and blessings.
- The second war is ultimately won by the “male child” (a symbolic figure representing those who have overcome) and his brothers, who then help the rest of the world to overcome as well.
Establishment of the New Heaven and New Earth:
- The “first heaven and first earth” pass away, replaced by the new heaven and new earth – the kingdom of victory.
- Those who overcome establish the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony, where all nations will come to worship God.
The Third War:
- Described as an extension of the second war. Details are not provided in the source.
Cast of Characters
God: The creator of all things, including Satan and humanity. He is the ultimate source of truth and goodness.
Jesus: The Son of God, who came to earth to redeem humanity from sin and defeat Satan. He is the perfect example of love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.
Satan: Originally a perfect angel, now the enemy of God and humanity. He is the master deceiver and persecutor, constantly working to thwart God’s plans.
Adam and Eve: The first humans, who were deceived by Satan and fell into sin, bringing death and suffering into the world.
Abel: Adam and Eve’s son, murdered by his brother Cain, marking the beginning of persecution against God’s followers.
Cain: Adam and Eve’s son, influenced by Satan to murder his brother Abel out of jealousy.
The Destroyers: Forces aligned with Satan who engage in a war of doctrines against those who claim to follow God but have been deceived.
The Betrayers: Those who claim to follow God but have been deceived by Satan and his doctrines. They are destroyed in the first war.
The Pharisees, Sadducees, and Teachers of the Law: Religious leaders during Jesus’ time who persecuted him and his disciples. They represent those who claim to serve God but are actually serving Satan.
Those Who Overcome: Believers who have resisted Satan’s deception, reached Mount Zion, and are fighting the spiritual war with the “blood of the Lamb” and the “word of testimony.”
The Male Child: A symbolic figure representing those who have overcome Satan and achieved spiritual maturity.
The Persecutors: Individuals influenced by Satan to attack God’s true followers. They often believe they are serving God and use worldly systems to persecute believers.
Those on Mount Zion: God’s true followers who have gathered at the symbolic mountain representing the true church. They face persecution but respond with love, forgiveness, and blessings.
Overview
Briefing Doc: Persecution and the Kingdom of Victory in the Book of Revelation
Main Themes:
- The inevitability of persecution for true believers: This theme is emphasized throughout the lesson, drawing parallels between the persecution faced by Jesus and his disciples and the persecution believers should expect at the second coming. The source argues that this persecution stems from Satan’s influence, who utilizes individuals in each era to oppose God’s work.
- The distinction between true believers and those who persecute: The lesson defines true believers as those “born of God’s seed” who will be persecuted, contrasting them with those who belong to the devil and act as persecutors. It stresses the importance of discerning true faith from those who may appear righteous but are ultimately serving Satan’s agenda.
- The establishment of a “Kingdom of Victory” (New Heaven and New Earth): This kingdom is described as the ultimate destination for those who overcome persecution and remain faithful. It emphasizes the need to persevere through trials and tribulations in order to reach this promised land.
- Understanding the Book of Revelation and its fulfillment: The lesson emphasizes the importance of correctly interpreting the Book of Revelation, cautioning against adding or subtracting from its prophecies. It argues that understanding the fulfillment of these prophecies is crucial for discerning true faith and avoiding deception.
Most Important Ideas/Facts:
- Persecution is rooted in Satan’s desire to destroy God’s work: The lesson traces the origin of persecution back to Satan’s rebellion against God and his subsequent efforts to thwart God’s plans. This persecution takes various forms throughout history, from introducing false gods to manipulating religious leaders.
- Jesus explicitly identified the spiritual nature of the conflict during his first coming: The lesson highlights Jesus’ confrontation with the Pharisees in John 8, where he states, “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire” (John 8:44). This confrontation reveals the reality of the spiritual war taking place and underscores the need for discernment.
- Persecution will intensify at the second coming: The lesson argues that the persecution faced by believers at the second coming will mirror the persecution endured by early Christians. It cites passages like Matthew 10:17-18 and Matthew 25:34-45 to illustrate the forms this persecution might take, including imprisonment and legal battles.
- The mindset of persecutors is often one of misplaced zeal: The lesson claims that persecutors often believe they are serving God by suppressing those they perceive as heretical. This misguided zeal stems from a lack of understanding and a failure to recognize the true nature of God’s work.
- The Kingdom of Victory is established through overcoming: The lesson links the establishment of the New Heaven and New Earth to the victory of those who overcome persecution and remain faithful. It emphasizes the importance of wielding the “blood of the Lamb” (understanding of scripture) and the “word of testimony” (accounts of real events and people) in this spiritual warfare.
Key Quotes:
- “Being a true child of God, a true son of God, and a true follower of Christ who understands God and Jesus’ current work means that persecution is inevitable.”
- “Your father is now the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire.”
- “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?”
- “They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God.”
- “Mastering Revelation after its fulfillment is the only way to avoid adding or subtracting.”
- “The second war is won by those who overcome: the male child and his brothers, who then assist the rest of the world in overcoming as well.”
Overall Impression:
The lesson presents a stark perspective on the reality of spiritual warfare and the challenges faced by those who strive to follow God. It emphasizes the importance of discernment, perseverance, and unwavering faith in the face of persecution. The ultimate hope offered is the establishment of a “Kingdom of Victory” where those who overcome will finally experience true peace and communion with God.
Q&A
Q&A: Persecution and the Kingdom of Victory
1. Why does persecution exist, and who is behind it?
Persecution stems from Satan, a fallen angel who was once perfect but became corrupted by pride and a desire to replace God. He seeks to destroy God’s creation and works through various individuals and systems throughout history to attack and hinder those who are truly following God.
2. How did persecution manifest during Jesus’ first coming?
During Jesus’ time, the Pharisees and Sadducees, the religious leaders, became tools of Satan’s persecution. They opposed Jesus, spread lies about him, and ultimately orchestrated his crucifixion, believing they were serving God while unknowingly fulfilling Satan’s agenda.
3. Will persecution occur at the second coming of Christ?
Yes, Jesus himself questioned whether true faith would even exist at his return. He prophesied ongoing persecution in the New Testament, stating that his true followers will be persecuted just as he was.
4. How can we recognize those who are persecuting God’s people today?
Persecutors may appear righteous and even claim to act on behalf of God. However, their actions will contradict the teachings of Christ, often involving lies, slander, and the use of worldly systems (like legal courts) to silence and harm believers.
5. What should the response of believers be to persecution?
Instead of retaliating, Jesus instructed his followers to respond with love, forgiveness, and blessings, even towards their enemies. This echoes his own example of enduring persecution while remaining blameless.
6. What is the “Kingdom of Victory” and how does it relate to the “New Heaven and New Earth?”
The Kingdom of Victory represents a future state where God’s will reigns supreme and those who overcome persecution inherit eternal life. This is symbolized by the New Heaven and New Earth, a transformed creation free from the influence of Satan and sin.
7. How can believers overcome persecution and become part of the Kingdom of Victory?
Overcoming requires understanding the true meaning of scripture (“the blood of the Lamb”) and sharing the testimony of how God is working in the world today. This knowledge and faithful witness will equip believers to stand strong against deception and persecution.
8. What is the ultimate goal for believers in the face of persecution?
The goal is not simply to survive persecution but to remain faithful to God, persevere in spreading his message of love and truth, and ultimately reach Mount Zion, a symbolic representation of the Kingdom of Victory where they will experience eternal life with God.