Post by Dave on Jul 12, 2020 11:43:34 GMT -5
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE “MADE IN THE IMAGE OF GOD”
www.focusonthefamily.com/family-qa/what-it-means-to-be-made-in-the-image-of-god/
The New Testament confirms that God’s image isn’t lost by pointing out that all people, not just Christians, “are made in the likeness of God” (James 3:9, ESV).
As believers in Christ, we have a “new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator” (Colossians 3:10, ESV). And as we grow in faith, we “are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another” (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV).
Knowing that we are made in God’s image affects not only our understanding of our Creator and our relationship with Him.
Made in God’s Image
lightandlifemagazine.com/made-in-gods-image/
Christians based that phrase mainly from Genesis 1:26, which reads, “Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’”
Now that we can affirm this information is true, that we are made in the image of our perfect and magnificent Creator, how does it change our lives?
It gives us great value and purpose. How beautiful is it to think that God, the Creator of the universe, made us in His image.
What does it mean to be in the image of God?
To say that humans are in the image of God is to recognize the special qualities of human nature which allow God to be made manifest in humans.
When we are fully restored in the life to come, we will become like Christ (Rom. 8:29).
1 John 3:2 says, “We know that when he appears, we shall be like him because we shall see him just as he is.”
YES! – we are 3D creatures limited by our 3D-ness
Jesus Christ is a multi-dimensional being – not limited to 3D corporeal reality
These are big theological points, but they are vital to understanding your intrinsic value as a son or daughter of God.
The image of God underlies the dignity, worth, and value of human beings.
Dignity and worth are divine attributes of our soul – that thing deep within me – which yields value
Our relational nature is an aspect of the image of God.
God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—is in an eternal relationship of love. He has created us for relationship with himself, with others, and with the creation.
YES! Created us for a relationship with Him – to make love bi-directional
Created us for a relationship to our fellow souljourners – this is our mission to remember and teach
Created us for a relationship to creation – as a witness to the archon – we came to ‘fix’ this world – how? By revealing God and His Glory to it
The image of God is more than just one aspect of our identity; it is the whole nature of our being.
For instance, a number of characteristics make humans unique from animals (i.e., language, rational and abstract thinking, imagination, creativity, personality, moral judgment), but the image of God cannot be reduced to any one of these characteristics.
YES! – there are many characteristics of God
God is just not the God of Love (feel good Christians) – his characteristics are broader than this one-dimensional view
The Christian view of the Character of God
www.ibelieve.com/faith/10-incredible-attributes-of-god-and-why-it-s-so-good-to-reflect-on-god-s-character.html
1. God is Loving. - “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” 1 John 3:1.
The very character and essence of God is love. Incredible, lavish, unconditional love. He loves us more than we could ever imagine, his love is everlasting, and it’s never based on how good we are. Don’t ever believe the lie that says you are somehow “unlovable” or have gone too far in the wrong direction for God to ever care about you. It’s just not possible with our loving God. He reaches for us, chases after us, knows us by name, and He sent his only Son so that we might have a chance to live free.
2. God is Faithful and Righteous. - “The LORD is righteous in all His ways and faithful in all he does,” Psalm 145:17.
The Bible reminds us over and over of God’s faithfulness to His people and righteousness over all. He is true and faithful to His word in a world that’s constantly shifting and changing. We can trust him to do what he says he will do. We can trust His character; we can choose to believe; we can hold on to His promises because our God will never fail.
3. God is Powerful and Mighty. - “Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle,” Psalm 24:8.
The very God who created the world, raised the dead, provided manna in the desert, and split the seas wide open so that His people could walk through on dry ground — that same God is with us still today. He is fighting for us, covering us with the peace and power of His Spirit, leading us, opening doors, and paving a way for us when there seems to be no possible way.
4. God is Sovereign and Just. - “The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His Sovereignty rules over all,” Psalm 103:19.
Sometimes it's a battle to trust God’s ways are better. We might think He missed it or forgot us or doesn't really care about the daily life that concerns us. Or we might start to think that we know better somehow — like God needs our help. We get in a hurry, and it's hard to wait for answers, or we feel like we're wasting time.
Sometimes people battle to trust God ways. – Some people tell me that God cannot make ra (scripture must be wrong) – cannot do ra (scripture must be wrong) – God cannot be satan (except for Balaam – wrong scripture)
God’s truth reminds us of His constant guidance and help. He rules over all; He is in control, and nothing takes Him by surprise. He never asks us to figure it all out on our own. He just asks us to trust Him — to recognize His leadership and sovereignty in our lives. And He promises to make our pathways smooth.
SMOOTH? – was it smooth for Job? Was it smooth for any of the disciples? Was it smooth for any of the First Christians? What is exactly smooth about Mathew chapter 10?
To me – “And He promises to make our pathways smooth” sounds a lot like Feel Good Romans 8:28 – it sounds all loving but is not the reality
5. God is Compassionate and Gracious. - “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love,” Psalm 103:8.
God’s very character throughout His word is one of deep compassion and grace for His people. He is slow to anger, forgiving, and full of love. The word “compassion” means more than just being empathetic or kind to someone; it goes much deeper. It literally means to “suffer with.” He knows every trouble and hard struggle we walk through. He understands the pain of loss, and He sees our hearts when we feel broken. God reaches out to us with the comfort and care of a loving Father. It’s in His everlasting arms that we’re held secure. And one day, He promises to wipe away every tear.
The promise of wiping away every tear = hope
Not the immediate promise of Feel Good “smooth pathways”
6. God is Good. - “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” Psalm 34:8.
The word reminds us that in this world, we will have trouble — it’s not always good, and many days can feel really bad. But the character of God rises above the struggles we face here. He is good. His ways are good. Though we sometimes wonder where the goodness is in the heat of difficult places, (Why – does God make ra – Why don’t God just make everything tov?) He promises that He is able to work all things “for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose,” (Romans 8:28). He gives us hope and a future; we do not need to fear the hard times, for God’s powerful work within our lives is for ultimate good.
Roman 8:28 – the good being done is the ultimate good – God’s good – God’s benefit – God’s Will
And for every Christian that is Mathew chapter 10 followed by Ezk 38 followed by Tribulation
God test his people – as the Contest heats up – the testing becomes more intense
How many men suffered from porn addiction before the printing press?
How many men were addicted to porn before movies?
How many men were addicted to porn before Playboy
How many men were addicted to porn before the internet?
God test his people – as the Contest heats up – the testing becomes more intense
7. God is Holy. - “There is none holy like the Lord; there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God,” 1 Samuel 2:2.
In a dark world, God’s holiness and light shine brightly. He reminds us to live out His ways, to seek to be holy as He is holy (1 Peter 1:16 and Leviticus 11:44-45). There is power when we confess our need for God’s Spirit to help us in every weakness. God understands how much we need Him to walk courageously and uprightly in this life, and He is always there to help us. His character of holiness is worthy of our worship and praise. There truly “is none holy like the Lord…no rock like our God.”
Without a dark world is the need the same?
“And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!” Isaiah 6:3.
This is our mission on earth – remember and share to help other also remember
8. God is Forgiving and Merciful. - m“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness,” 1 John 1:9.
God is faithful to forgive us as we come to Him and seek His forgiveness.
YES! – 1 of the two commandment spoke by Jesus – Seek First the Kingdom – love follows
9. God is our Refuge and Help. - “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble,” Psalm 46:1.
Omnipresent – you can never hide from the Lord
10. God is with us. – In Spirit = HS / Comforter – as Christ
So why does standard Christianity credit God’s Character with 10 Attributes?
Why Only Ten Commandments at Sinai?
cejspr.com/2020/05/27/why-only-ten-commandments-at-sinai/
yishmaelgunzhard Uncategorized May 27, 2020 3 Minutes
The Ten Commandments | My Jewish Learning
By Yehuda Shurpin
Question:
If there are 613 commandments, why were ten commandments specifically given at Sinai, and in what way are they different from the other 603?
Response:
To understand this, we first need to clear up a very common misconception. Although in English (and for clarity’s sake, here as well) they are commonly referred to as the “Ten Commandments,” in Hebrew they are called the Aseret Hadibrot, the “Ten Statements.”
This isn’t mere semantics.
At Mount Sinai, contrary to common misconception, the Jews received the entire Torah, including all of its 613 mitzvahs, not just the Ten Commandments. The Midrash and classic commentators of the Torah explain how each of the Ten Commandments is really a general mitzvah, and they describe how each of the 613 mitzvahs is included in one of the ten statements.
Furthermore, as the Midrash points out, there are 620 letters that make up the Aseret Hadibrot. This corresponds to the 613 mitzvahs plus the seven days of creation, seven Noahide Laws or the seven rabbinic mitzvahs.
Yet the Torah itself in a number of places explicitly calls them the “Ten Statements.”6 So what is the significance of specifically ten statements?
3+7=10 = multidimensionism
The Covenant of Ten
When referring to the Ten Commandments, the Torah calls them the words of the covenant: “…and He inscribed upon the Tablets the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments.” In turn, the Tablets are called Shnei Luchot Habrit, “the Two Tablets of the Covenant.” Thus these Ten Commandments are meant as a covenant between G‑d and the Jewish people.
The Midrash explains that the Ten Commandments correspond to the Ten Utterances with which G‑d created the world (e.g., “Let there be light”), as well as the ten sefirot (Divine attributes or emanations), which are also the source of the corresponding ten faculties (kochot) of the soul
Additionally, the Midrash explains that the Ten Commandments are connected to the many other things in the Torah that are associated with the number ten: the ten generations from Adam to Noah, the ten generations from Noah’s son Shem to Abraham, the ten tests with which G‑d tested Abraham, the ten blessings our forefathers received, the ten plagues, the ten curtains of the Tabernacle, etc.
The number ten represents wholeness and completeness; thus, all of these ideas are interconnected, reflecting a common purpose.
3+7=10 = multidimensionism
Purpose of Creation
The Zohar states that “G‑d looked into the Torah and created the world.” In other words, the Torah is the blueprint for creation.
The mystics explain that the purpose for creation was that G‑d desired that we make a dwelling place for Him down here in this mundane, materialistic and physical world.12
Thus, our purpose is to refine ourselves and the world around us by using the physical world to serve G‑d, thereby uplifting the mundane and transforming it into something holy.
Our mission in this world is to remember and share the truth with fellow souljourners
This is why the number ten is associated with the Torah as well as the creation of the world and the ten sefirot. Through the fulfillment of the Torah and its mitzvahs, we reach the completion of the purpose of creation.
3+7=10 = multidimensionism
What Are the Seven Types of Souls?
www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/528417/jewish/What-Are-the-Seven-Types-of-Souls.htm
By Menachem Posner
Question:
I've heard it said that the seven branches of the Menorah (candelabra) in the Holy Temple represent the seven types of souls. Can you please tell me the unique characteristics of these different souls?
Answer:
Man was created "in the image of G‑d" (Genesis 1:26). Among the many meanings inherent in this statement is that our souls' composition is the likeness G‑d's divine attributes.
There are seven middot (divine emotive attributes) — Kindness, Severity, Harmony, Perseverance, Humility, Foundation, and Royalty. While every soul possesses all seven of these middot, one of these traits is most dominant, shaping the individual soul's unique service of G‑d.
Here is a brief description of the seven types of Jewish souls:
Chesed (Kindness) — A soul whose service of G‑d is characterized by a calm and flowing love. This soul is also overflowing with love for his fellows.
Gevurah (Severity) – A soul who serves G‑d with awe and a flaming passion. This soul is also highly disciplined, with high expectations of himself and others.
Tiferet (Harmony) – The soul who has achieved a perfect synthesis of Kindness and Severity. This is accomplished through the study of Torah. Tiferet is also the source of the soul's capacity for compassion.
Netzach (Perseverance) – A soul who is constantly battling and struggling, but is ultimately triumphant.
Hod (Humility) – The soul who exemplifies self-abnegation in favor of allowing itself to be overwhelmed by G‑d's goodness.
Yesod (Foundation) – The soul whose unique talent is establishing giving relationships, intellectually or otherwise.
Malchut – (Royalty) The soul who serves its Creator in a majestic manner.
In the Tenple's menora, all seven branches were hewn from a single block of pure gold. We may have different dispositions and different methods of serving G‑d, but we are essentially one. We have one purpose and one mission, with different ways to accomplish the same goal — serving our creator and being a menorah — a guiding light — for the entire world.
God that is a Trinity (3) + 7 soul types – each to represent an utterance of the Creator
(Wiki) The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are an enumeration of seven spiritual gifts originating from patristic authors, later elaborated by five intellectual virtues and four other groups of ethical characteristics. They are: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord.
God that is a Trinity (3) + 7 gifts of the HS – each to represent an utterance of the Creator
The Midrash explains that the Ten Commandments correspond to the Ten Utterances with which G‑d created the world (e.g., “Let there be light”), as well as the ten sefirot (Divine attributes or emanations), which are also the source of the corresponding ten faculties (kochot) of the soul
Sefirot, The (seven, ten): Divine attributes or emanations which are manifested and are the source of the corresponding ten faculties (kochot) of the soul
Ten Powers of the Soul
Meet the sefirot in their relation to the soul. Intermediate
By Moshe Miller
www.chabad.org/kabbalah/article_cdo/aid/380342/jewish/Ten-Powers-of-the-Soul.htm
From the ten sefirot the soul derives its corresponding ten soul-powers, all of which have names identical to the sefirot. The soul is expressed and manifested through its powers, of which there are two general categories — the transcendent or encompassing powers, and the particular, or immanent powers (corresponding to the transcendent keter and the remaining immanent sefirot, respectively). The transcendent or super-conscious powers of the soul are called delight (oneg) and will (ratzon), corresponding to the inner and outer dimensions of keter mentioned above.
The particular or immanent powers are subdivided into intellect and emotions. The three intellectual powers are Chochma, wisdom or creative intellect; Bina, understanding or developmental intellect; and Da'at, which is knowledge or conclusive, synthesizing intellect.
3 intellectual powers + 7 emotional powers = 10D multidimensionality
Chochma is the creative and generally unpredictable power of the soul which is manifested in spontaneous insights or inspiration — an intuitive flash of intellectual illumination which has not yet been processed or developed by the understanding power of bina.
Bina, usually translated as "understanding", is the cognitive faculty that develops and articulates the seminal energy of chochma so that the latter becomes known, in a detailed conceptual way, through bina. Bina is also the inductive and deductive faculty of understanding (or deducing) one thing from another, thus expanding the point of chochma into a multi-dimensional conceptual system.
Bina is also the ability to explain the concept to another person, thus "reproducing" it. In this sense bina is referred to as "the mother of children" (Psalms 113:9).
Da'at is the ability to integrate and harmonize diametrically opposed views...
Da'at (knowledge) is the third faculty of the intellect. It is the ability to integrate and harmonize diametrically opposed views or states of being.
Chesed (love, kindness) is the first emotional attribute of the soul. Its motivating force is love and benevolence. Chesed is also sometimes called gedula (largesse), for it nurtures the other attributes of the soul into full development and maturity. The Zohar therefore refers to it as "the first day [i.e. the first attribute] which accompanies all the other days [of Creation]" (Zohar 1, 46a).
Of the three Patriarchs, Abraham embodied the quality of chesed, as the verse states, "Give….chesed to Abraham." (Micah 7:20) He is also referred to as "Abraham, My loving one." (Isaiah 41:8)
Gevura (fortitude, restrictive power), associated with the force of din (severe divine judgment) restricts the benevolent expansiveness of chesed. As a soul-power it represents the emotional attribute of awe or fear. Whereas chesed dictates that one give generously and unconditionally, without concern for the intended recipient's worthiness to receive, gevura argues against doing so, for fear that the recipient is not worthy, or will misuse what he has been given. Accordingly, every opportunity to shower goodness upon someone is assessed in terms of the recipient's merit.
On the other hand, gevura is just as influential in motivating one courageously to uphold another's rights to the rewards which are legitimately his, even in the face of stiff opposition. Should divine justice dictate that someone be extended a particular benefit, the fear of Heaven impels one to do everything within one's power to facilitate it. Since gevura is concerned with maintaining proper measure and proportion within Creation, it works to defend the boundaries of the law, be they to one's advantage or disadvantage, requiring courage or trepidation.
As complimentary forces, chesed and gevura actually work together, establishing the rigorous standard of merit that endows subsequent overtures of chesed with genuine value and meaning for the recipient.
Gevura corresponds to the Patriarch Isaac, as in the verse "The One whom Isaac fears…." (Gen. 31:42, 53)Tiferet corresponds to the Patriarch Jacob
Tiferet (compassion) is the attribute of the soul which blends and harmonizes the two polar opposites of chesed and gevura. Tiferet is also referred to as the attribute of truth, for it depends to some extent on the merit of the recipient. Nevertheless, ideally, tiferet tends towards chesed, and is therefore known as rachamim (mercy).
Netzach has many meanings, referring to different aspects in the soul. It implies "victory" (nitzachon), "eternity" (nitzchiyut) and "orchestration" (nitzuach). Common to all these ideas is a sense of the initiative and persistence necessary in order to overcome the resistance to bringing thought and feeling into positive action. "Victory" assumes initiative; "eternity" implies persistence; and "orchestration" indicates a creative plan that deploys the other qualities in an intelligent way.
The quality of netzach in the soul is dependent upon the degree of confidence one has that he is doing what G‑d wants of him.
Hod (surrender, acknowledgment) is the complementary soul-power to netzach. Whereas netzach thrusts forward, overcoming the barriers between the outflow of benevolence (from chesed) and the intended recipient; hod (a quality derived from gevura) ensures that the person's success is predicated on his acknowledging the divine source of his power and might. Hod therefore represents sincerity and innocence. The Zohar refers to this complementary relationship as "two halves of one body, like twins". (Zohar 3, 236a)
Yesod combines all into a single creative act binding the giver and the recipient
Yesod is the quality which combines all the qualities which precede it into a single creative act binding the giver and the recipient into a single unit. In technical terms, yesod binds the higher sefirot to malchut, or heaven to earth. In the soul this represents a person's ability to bind himself to G‑d's will and thus bring about the implementation of G‑d's plan for Creation. Yesod also represents the tzadik (saintly person), regarding whom it is said: "The tzadik is the foundation (yesod) of the world" (Proverbs 10:25), for it is he who dedicates himself to fulfilling G‑d's will and actualizing His plan for Creation.
Malchut... receiving upon oneself the yoke of G‑d's sovereignty
In terms of the powers of the soul, malchut represents receiving upon oneself the yoke of G‑d's sovereignty, and acting in accordance with it, as a slave towards his master. Malchut thus experiences itself as a state of lowliness, for it possesses nothing of its own; it is aware that it receives all of its qualities from the other powers of the soul. At the same time, malchut also represents royalty and sovereignty. Only when a king humbly takes upon himself the yoke of Heaven, is he able to find the strength and wisdom to rule properly.
When man does good, his soul disseminates G‑d's abundant goodness and reveals His greatness. Through man's good deeds, certain sefirot prevail. For instance, if a person displays compassion towards others, he causes tiferet to prevail. Thus, for example, Abraham represents kindness and love, which derive from the sefira of chesed, as explained above, for his deeds were concentrated in this direction.
Conclusion – made in His spiritually
Christianity tells us there are 10 characteristics of God
Therefore these 10 characteristics are also revealed in man
Where does this idea come from?
I guess we could say Christian leaders through the centuries tell us this
But if a Christian does two minutes of research
we see that the whole idea is Jewish – In fact it is Jewish Kabbalah
3+7=10
3 (beginning with the Trinity of 3 and ending with space, time, matter, and man)
+ 7 higher dimensions / heavens / localities of reality
Conclusion – made in His image physically
Christ –is a lot more than just a 3D man – but Jesus Christ is 100% man
2 legs – 2 arms - - two eyes
OK – no worries
Conclusion made in His image duality
God expresses Himself as a duality – Christ His image – HS His Spirit
This duality is also seen as the ale female divide
Even the roughest toughest bad man – has a feminine side
This also comes out as tov and ra
Conclusion – made in His image of purpose / mission
God created the all to have a bi-directional love relationship – in which the all remembers God, thanks God, praises God, give God all the credit – to reveal God’s Glory throughout all creation
Man’s mission – to remember what we once gnosis – full awareness – then share that information with fellow souljourners so they also remember - to reveal God’s Glory throughout all creation
Jesus Christ came to teach sending the Comforter to help us remember – full awareness
He shared that information to all mankind – by the cross and most importantly His resurrection
Conclusion man made in His image – life cycle
What was the complete life cycle of Jesus Christ?
1- He pre-existed the all – as God He is a singularity – He is the alpha and omega
John 1:1-4 – Christ = the Word and the Word was God – a singularity
2- He came to earth as a man – and was tempted by mortal life, the world, His fellow man, and even the archon face to face – then He died a mortal death and returned to God without sin
Judaism – man was created long ago in the heavens as individuals, independent, singularities – souls
Then man has a physical souljourn through this world – only to return to God with sin and proportional punishment or receive a divine pardon
Gnostic - man was created long ago in the heavens as individuals, independent, singularities – souls
Then man has a physical souljourn through this world (which is the Great Contest)– only to return to God with sin and proportional punishment or receive a divine pardon
Catholic – man is an animal that never existed before conception
Then while mortal – you better such up to the church as much as possible
at death you just sleep in the grave – until your judged dead or divine pardon alive
Baptist - man is an animal that never existed before conception
Then while mortal – you better fear God as much as possible
Because at death most of you will burn in hell fire for ever
Presbyterian - man is an animal that never existed before conception
Then while mortal – you seek the lord – seek salvation
at death you suffer proportional punishment or divine pardon
I think Jewish – the Jewish concept of From God we come and to God we return predates Jesus Christ by 25 centuries
We pre-existed our mortal conception – with the angels in heaven during the First AION / Age
It is the second age in which man comes into this mortal / corporeal world for a souljourn
Very Jewish – very Christ like – we are in His image -
www.focusonthefamily.com/family-qa/what-it-means-to-be-made-in-the-image-of-god/
The New Testament confirms that God’s image isn’t lost by pointing out that all people, not just Christians, “are made in the likeness of God” (James 3:9, ESV).
As believers in Christ, we have a “new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator” (Colossians 3:10, ESV). And as we grow in faith, we “are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another” (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV).
Knowing that we are made in God’s image affects not only our understanding of our Creator and our relationship with Him.
Made in God’s Image
lightandlifemagazine.com/made-in-gods-image/
Christians based that phrase mainly from Genesis 1:26, which reads, “Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’”
Now that we can affirm this information is true, that we are made in the image of our perfect and magnificent Creator, how does it change our lives?
It gives us great value and purpose. How beautiful is it to think that God, the Creator of the universe, made us in His image.
What does it mean to be in the image of God?
To say that humans are in the image of God is to recognize the special qualities of human nature which allow God to be made manifest in humans.
When we are fully restored in the life to come, we will become like Christ (Rom. 8:29).
1 John 3:2 says, “We know that when he appears, we shall be like him because we shall see him just as he is.”
YES! – we are 3D creatures limited by our 3D-ness
Jesus Christ is a multi-dimensional being – not limited to 3D corporeal reality
These are big theological points, but they are vital to understanding your intrinsic value as a son or daughter of God.
The image of God underlies the dignity, worth, and value of human beings.
Dignity and worth are divine attributes of our soul – that thing deep within me – which yields value
Our relational nature is an aspect of the image of God.
God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—is in an eternal relationship of love. He has created us for relationship with himself, with others, and with the creation.
YES! Created us for a relationship with Him – to make love bi-directional
Created us for a relationship to our fellow souljourners – this is our mission to remember and teach
Created us for a relationship to creation – as a witness to the archon – we came to ‘fix’ this world – how? By revealing God and His Glory to it
The image of God is more than just one aspect of our identity; it is the whole nature of our being.
For instance, a number of characteristics make humans unique from animals (i.e., language, rational and abstract thinking, imagination, creativity, personality, moral judgment), but the image of God cannot be reduced to any one of these characteristics.
YES! – there are many characteristics of God
God is just not the God of Love (feel good Christians) – his characteristics are broader than this one-dimensional view
The Christian view of the Character of God
www.ibelieve.com/faith/10-incredible-attributes-of-god-and-why-it-s-so-good-to-reflect-on-god-s-character.html
1. God is Loving. - “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” 1 John 3:1.
The very character and essence of God is love. Incredible, lavish, unconditional love. He loves us more than we could ever imagine, his love is everlasting, and it’s never based on how good we are. Don’t ever believe the lie that says you are somehow “unlovable” or have gone too far in the wrong direction for God to ever care about you. It’s just not possible with our loving God. He reaches for us, chases after us, knows us by name, and He sent his only Son so that we might have a chance to live free.
2. God is Faithful and Righteous. - “The LORD is righteous in all His ways and faithful in all he does,” Psalm 145:17.
The Bible reminds us over and over of God’s faithfulness to His people and righteousness over all. He is true and faithful to His word in a world that’s constantly shifting and changing. We can trust him to do what he says he will do. We can trust His character; we can choose to believe; we can hold on to His promises because our God will never fail.
3. God is Powerful and Mighty. - “Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle,” Psalm 24:8.
The very God who created the world, raised the dead, provided manna in the desert, and split the seas wide open so that His people could walk through on dry ground — that same God is with us still today. He is fighting for us, covering us with the peace and power of His Spirit, leading us, opening doors, and paving a way for us when there seems to be no possible way.
4. God is Sovereign and Just. - “The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His Sovereignty rules over all,” Psalm 103:19.
Sometimes it's a battle to trust God’s ways are better. We might think He missed it or forgot us or doesn't really care about the daily life that concerns us. Or we might start to think that we know better somehow — like God needs our help. We get in a hurry, and it's hard to wait for answers, or we feel like we're wasting time.
Sometimes people battle to trust God ways. – Some people tell me that God cannot make ra (scripture must be wrong) – cannot do ra (scripture must be wrong) – God cannot be satan (except for Balaam – wrong scripture)
God’s truth reminds us of His constant guidance and help. He rules over all; He is in control, and nothing takes Him by surprise. He never asks us to figure it all out on our own. He just asks us to trust Him — to recognize His leadership and sovereignty in our lives. And He promises to make our pathways smooth.
SMOOTH? – was it smooth for Job? Was it smooth for any of the disciples? Was it smooth for any of the First Christians? What is exactly smooth about Mathew chapter 10?
To me – “And He promises to make our pathways smooth” sounds a lot like Feel Good Romans 8:28 – it sounds all loving but is not the reality
5. God is Compassionate and Gracious. - “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love,” Psalm 103:8.
God’s very character throughout His word is one of deep compassion and grace for His people. He is slow to anger, forgiving, and full of love. The word “compassion” means more than just being empathetic or kind to someone; it goes much deeper. It literally means to “suffer with.” He knows every trouble and hard struggle we walk through. He understands the pain of loss, and He sees our hearts when we feel broken. God reaches out to us with the comfort and care of a loving Father. It’s in His everlasting arms that we’re held secure. And one day, He promises to wipe away every tear.
The promise of wiping away every tear = hope
Not the immediate promise of Feel Good “smooth pathways”
6. God is Good. - “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” Psalm 34:8.
The word reminds us that in this world, we will have trouble — it’s not always good, and many days can feel really bad. But the character of God rises above the struggles we face here. He is good. His ways are good. Though we sometimes wonder where the goodness is in the heat of difficult places, (Why – does God make ra – Why don’t God just make everything tov?) He promises that He is able to work all things “for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose,” (Romans 8:28). He gives us hope and a future; we do not need to fear the hard times, for God’s powerful work within our lives is for ultimate good.
Roman 8:28 – the good being done is the ultimate good – God’s good – God’s benefit – God’s Will
And for every Christian that is Mathew chapter 10 followed by Ezk 38 followed by Tribulation
God test his people – as the Contest heats up – the testing becomes more intense
How many men suffered from porn addiction before the printing press?
How many men were addicted to porn before movies?
How many men were addicted to porn before Playboy
How many men were addicted to porn before the internet?
God test his people – as the Contest heats up – the testing becomes more intense
7. God is Holy. - “There is none holy like the Lord; there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God,” 1 Samuel 2:2.
In a dark world, God’s holiness and light shine brightly. He reminds us to live out His ways, to seek to be holy as He is holy (1 Peter 1:16 and Leviticus 11:44-45). There is power when we confess our need for God’s Spirit to help us in every weakness. God understands how much we need Him to walk courageously and uprightly in this life, and He is always there to help us. His character of holiness is worthy of our worship and praise. There truly “is none holy like the Lord…no rock like our God.”
Without a dark world is the need the same?
“And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!” Isaiah 6:3.
This is our mission on earth – remember and share to help other also remember
8. God is Forgiving and Merciful. - m“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness,” 1 John 1:9.
God is faithful to forgive us as we come to Him and seek His forgiveness.
YES! – 1 of the two commandment spoke by Jesus – Seek First the Kingdom – love follows
9. God is our Refuge and Help. - “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble,” Psalm 46:1.
Omnipresent – you can never hide from the Lord
10. God is with us. – In Spirit = HS / Comforter – as Christ
So why does standard Christianity credit God’s Character with 10 Attributes?
Why Only Ten Commandments at Sinai?
cejspr.com/2020/05/27/why-only-ten-commandments-at-sinai/
yishmaelgunzhard Uncategorized May 27, 2020 3 Minutes
The Ten Commandments | My Jewish Learning
By Yehuda Shurpin
Question:
If there are 613 commandments, why were ten commandments specifically given at Sinai, and in what way are they different from the other 603?
Response:
To understand this, we first need to clear up a very common misconception. Although in English (and for clarity’s sake, here as well) they are commonly referred to as the “Ten Commandments,” in Hebrew they are called the Aseret Hadibrot, the “Ten Statements.”
This isn’t mere semantics.
At Mount Sinai, contrary to common misconception, the Jews received the entire Torah, including all of its 613 mitzvahs, not just the Ten Commandments. The Midrash and classic commentators of the Torah explain how each of the Ten Commandments is really a general mitzvah, and they describe how each of the 613 mitzvahs is included in one of the ten statements.
Furthermore, as the Midrash points out, there are 620 letters that make up the Aseret Hadibrot. This corresponds to the 613 mitzvahs plus the seven days of creation, seven Noahide Laws or the seven rabbinic mitzvahs.
Yet the Torah itself in a number of places explicitly calls them the “Ten Statements.”6 So what is the significance of specifically ten statements?
3+7=10 = multidimensionism
The Covenant of Ten
When referring to the Ten Commandments, the Torah calls them the words of the covenant: “…and He inscribed upon the Tablets the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments.” In turn, the Tablets are called Shnei Luchot Habrit, “the Two Tablets of the Covenant.” Thus these Ten Commandments are meant as a covenant between G‑d and the Jewish people.
The Midrash explains that the Ten Commandments correspond to the Ten Utterances with which G‑d created the world (e.g., “Let there be light”), as well as the ten sefirot (Divine attributes or emanations), which are also the source of the corresponding ten faculties (kochot) of the soul
Additionally, the Midrash explains that the Ten Commandments are connected to the many other things in the Torah that are associated with the number ten: the ten generations from Adam to Noah, the ten generations from Noah’s son Shem to Abraham, the ten tests with which G‑d tested Abraham, the ten blessings our forefathers received, the ten plagues, the ten curtains of the Tabernacle, etc.
The number ten represents wholeness and completeness; thus, all of these ideas are interconnected, reflecting a common purpose.
3+7=10 = multidimensionism
Purpose of Creation
The Zohar states that “G‑d looked into the Torah and created the world.” In other words, the Torah is the blueprint for creation.
The mystics explain that the purpose for creation was that G‑d desired that we make a dwelling place for Him down here in this mundane, materialistic and physical world.12
Thus, our purpose is to refine ourselves and the world around us by using the physical world to serve G‑d, thereby uplifting the mundane and transforming it into something holy.
Our mission in this world is to remember and share the truth with fellow souljourners
This is why the number ten is associated with the Torah as well as the creation of the world and the ten sefirot. Through the fulfillment of the Torah and its mitzvahs, we reach the completion of the purpose of creation.
3+7=10 = multidimensionism
What Are the Seven Types of Souls?
www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/528417/jewish/What-Are-the-Seven-Types-of-Souls.htm
By Menachem Posner
Question:
I've heard it said that the seven branches of the Menorah (candelabra) in the Holy Temple represent the seven types of souls. Can you please tell me the unique characteristics of these different souls?
Answer:
Man was created "in the image of G‑d" (Genesis 1:26). Among the many meanings inherent in this statement is that our souls' composition is the likeness G‑d's divine attributes.
There are seven middot (divine emotive attributes) — Kindness, Severity, Harmony, Perseverance, Humility, Foundation, and Royalty. While every soul possesses all seven of these middot, one of these traits is most dominant, shaping the individual soul's unique service of G‑d.
Here is a brief description of the seven types of Jewish souls:
Chesed (Kindness) — A soul whose service of G‑d is characterized by a calm and flowing love. This soul is also overflowing with love for his fellows.
Gevurah (Severity) – A soul who serves G‑d with awe and a flaming passion. This soul is also highly disciplined, with high expectations of himself and others.
Tiferet (Harmony) – The soul who has achieved a perfect synthesis of Kindness and Severity. This is accomplished through the study of Torah. Tiferet is also the source of the soul's capacity for compassion.
Netzach (Perseverance) – A soul who is constantly battling and struggling, but is ultimately triumphant.
Hod (Humility) – The soul who exemplifies self-abnegation in favor of allowing itself to be overwhelmed by G‑d's goodness.
Yesod (Foundation) – The soul whose unique talent is establishing giving relationships, intellectually or otherwise.
Malchut – (Royalty) The soul who serves its Creator in a majestic manner.
In the Tenple's menora, all seven branches were hewn from a single block of pure gold. We may have different dispositions and different methods of serving G‑d, but we are essentially one. We have one purpose and one mission, with different ways to accomplish the same goal — serving our creator and being a menorah — a guiding light — for the entire world.
God that is a Trinity (3) + 7 soul types – each to represent an utterance of the Creator
(Wiki) The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are an enumeration of seven spiritual gifts originating from patristic authors, later elaborated by five intellectual virtues and four other groups of ethical characteristics. They are: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord.
God that is a Trinity (3) + 7 gifts of the HS – each to represent an utterance of the Creator
The Midrash explains that the Ten Commandments correspond to the Ten Utterances with which G‑d created the world (e.g., “Let there be light”), as well as the ten sefirot (Divine attributes or emanations), which are also the source of the corresponding ten faculties (kochot) of the soul
Sefirot, The (seven, ten): Divine attributes or emanations which are manifested and are the source of the corresponding ten faculties (kochot) of the soul
Ten Powers of the Soul
Meet the sefirot in their relation to the soul. Intermediate
By Moshe Miller
www.chabad.org/kabbalah/article_cdo/aid/380342/jewish/Ten-Powers-of-the-Soul.htm
From the ten sefirot the soul derives its corresponding ten soul-powers, all of which have names identical to the sefirot. The soul is expressed and manifested through its powers, of which there are two general categories — the transcendent or encompassing powers, and the particular, or immanent powers (corresponding to the transcendent keter and the remaining immanent sefirot, respectively). The transcendent or super-conscious powers of the soul are called delight (oneg) and will (ratzon), corresponding to the inner and outer dimensions of keter mentioned above.
The particular or immanent powers are subdivided into intellect and emotions. The three intellectual powers are Chochma, wisdom or creative intellect; Bina, understanding or developmental intellect; and Da'at, which is knowledge or conclusive, synthesizing intellect.
3 intellectual powers + 7 emotional powers = 10D multidimensionality
Chochma is the creative and generally unpredictable power of the soul which is manifested in spontaneous insights or inspiration — an intuitive flash of intellectual illumination which has not yet been processed or developed by the understanding power of bina.
Bina, usually translated as "understanding", is the cognitive faculty that develops and articulates the seminal energy of chochma so that the latter becomes known, in a detailed conceptual way, through bina. Bina is also the inductive and deductive faculty of understanding (or deducing) one thing from another, thus expanding the point of chochma into a multi-dimensional conceptual system.
Bina is also the ability to explain the concept to another person, thus "reproducing" it. In this sense bina is referred to as "the mother of children" (Psalms 113:9).
Da'at is the ability to integrate and harmonize diametrically opposed views...
Da'at (knowledge) is the third faculty of the intellect. It is the ability to integrate and harmonize diametrically opposed views or states of being.
Chesed (love, kindness) is the first emotional attribute of the soul. Its motivating force is love and benevolence. Chesed is also sometimes called gedula (largesse), for it nurtures the other attributes of the soul into full development and maturity. The Zohar therefore refers to it as "the first day [i.e. the first attribute] which accompanies all the other days [of Creation]" (Zohar 1, 46a).
Of the three Patriarchs, Abraham embodied the quality of chesed, as the verse states, "Give….chesed to Abraham." (Micah 7:20) He is also referred to as "Abraham, My loving one." (Isaiah 41:8)
Gevura (fortitude, restrictive power), associated with the force of din (severe divine judgment) restricts the benevolent expansiveness of chesed. As a soul-power it represents the emotional attribute of awe or fear. Whereas chesed dictates that one give generously and unconditionally, without concern for the intended recipient's worthiness to receive, gevura argues against doing so, for fear that the recipient is not worthy, or will misuse what he has been given. Accordingly, every opportunity to shower goodness upon someone is assessed in terms of the recipient's merit.
On the other hand, gevura is just as influential in motivating one courageously to uphold another's rights to the rewards which are legitimately his, even in the face of stiff opposition. Should divine justice dictate that someone be extended a particular benefit, the fear of Heaven impels one to do everything within one's power to facilitate it. Since gevura is concerned with maintaining proper measure and proportion within Creation, it works to defend the boundaries of the law, be they to one's advantage or disadvantage, requiring courage or trepidation.
As complimentary forces, chesed and gevura actually work together, establishing the rigorous standard of merit that endows subsequent overtures of chesed with genuine value and meaning for the recipient.
Gevura corresponds to the Patriarch Isaac, as in the verse "The One whom Isaac fears…." (Gen. 31:42, 53)Tiferet corresponds to the Patriarch Jacob
Tiferet (compassion) is the attribute of the soul which blends and harmonizes the two polar opposites of chesed and gevura. Tiferet is also referred to as the attribute of truth, for it depends to some extent on the merit of the recipient. Nevertheless, ideally, tiferet tends towards chesed, and is therefore known as rachamim (mercy).
Netzach has many meanings, referring to different aspects in the soul. It implies "victory" (nitzachon), "eternity" (nitzchiyut) and "orchestration" (nitzuach). Common to all these ideas is a sense of the initiative and persistence necessary in order to overcome the resistance to bringing thought and feeling into positive action. "Victory" assumes initiative; "eternity" implies persistence; and "orchestration" indicates a creative plan that deploys the other qualities in an intelligent way.
The quality of netzach in the soul is dependent upon the degree of confidence one has that he is doing what G‑d wants of him.
Hod (surrender, acknowledgment) is the complementary soul-power to netzach. Whereas netzach thrusts forward, overcoming the barriers between the outflow of benevolence (from chesed) and the intended recipient; hod (a quality derived from gevura) ensures that the person's success is predicated on his acknowledging the divine source of his power and might. Hod therefore represents sincerity and innocence. The Zohar refers to this complementary relationship as "two halves of one body, like twins". (Zohar 3, 236a)
Yesod combines all into a single creative act binding the giver and the recipient
Yesod is the quality which combines all the qualities which precede it into a single creative act binding the giver and the recipient into a single unit. In technical terms, yesod binds the higher sefirot to malchut, or heaven to earth. In the soul this represents a person's ability to bind himself to G‑d's will and thus bring about the implementation of G‑d's plan for Creation. Yesod also represents the tzadik (saintly person), regarding whom it is said: "The tzadik is the foundation (yesod) of the world" (Proverbs 10:25), for it is he who dedicates himself to fulfilling G‑d's will and actualizing His plan for Creation.
Malchut... receiving upon oneself the yoke of G‑d's sovereignty
In terms of the powers of the soul, malchut represents receiving upon oneself the yoke of G‑d's sovereignty, and acting in accordance with it, as a slave towards his master. Malchut thus experiences itself as a state of lowliness, for it possesses nothing of its own; it is aware that it receives all of its qualities from the other powers of the soul. At the same time, malchut also represents royalty and sovereignty. Only when a king humbly takes upon himself the yoke of Heaven, is he able to find the strength and wisdom to rule properly.
When man does good, his soul disseminates G‑d's abundant goodness and reveals His greatness. Through man's good deeds, certain sefirot prevail. For instance, if a person displays compassion towards others, he causes tiferet to prevail. Thus, for example, Abraham represents kindness and love, which derive from the sefira of chesed, as explained above, for his deeds were concentrated in this direction.
| Conclusion – made in His spiritually Christianity tells us there are 10 characteristics of God Therefore these 10 characteristics are also revealed in man Where does this idea come from? I guess we could say Christian leaders through the centuries tell us this But if a Christian does two minutes of research we see that the whole idea is Jewish – In fact it is Jewish Kabbalah 3+7=10 3 (beginning with the Trinity of 3 and ending with space, time, matter, and man) + 7 higher dimensions / heavens / localities of reality |  |
Conclusion – made in His spiritually
Christianity tells us there are 10 characteristics of God
Therefore these 10 characteristics are also revealed in man
Where does this idea come from?
I guess we could say Christian leaders through the centuries tell us this
But if a Christian does two minutes of research
we see that the whole idea is Jewish – In fact it is Jewish Kabbalah
3+7=10
3 (beginning with the Trinity of 3 and ending with space, time, matter, and man)
+ 7 higher dimensions / heavens / localities of reality
Conclusion – made in His image physically
Christ –is a lot more than just a 3D man – but Jesus Christ is 100% man
2 legs – 2 arms - - two eyes
OK – no worries
Conclusion made in His image duality
God expresses Himself as a duality – Christ His image – HS His Spirit
This duality is also seen as the ale female divide
Even the roughest toughest bad man – has a feminine side
This also comes out as tov and ra
Conclusion – made in His image of purpose / mission
God created the all to have a bi-directional love relationship – in which the all remembers God, thanks God, praises God, give God all the credit – to reveal God’s Glory throughout all creation
Man’s mission – to remember what we once gnosis – full awareness – then share that information with fellow souljourners so they also remember - to reveal God’s Glory throughout all creation
Jesus Christ came to teach sending the Comforter to help us remember – full awareness
He shared that information to all mankind – by the cross and most importantly His resurrection
Conclusion man made in His image – life cycle
What was the complete life cycle of Jesus Christ?
1- He pre-existed the all – as God He is a singularity – He is the alpha and omega
John 1:1-4 – Christ = the Word and the Word was God – a singularity
2- He came to earth as a man – and was tempted by mortal life, the world, His fellow man, and even the archon face to face – then He died a mortal death and returned to God without sin
Judaism – man was created long ago in the heavens as individuals, independent, singularities – souls
Then man has a physical souljourn through this world – only to return to God with sin and proportional punishment or receive a divine pardon
Gnostic - man was created long ago in the heavens as individuals, independent, singularities – souls
Then man has a physical souljourn through this world (which is the Great Contest)– only to return to God with sin and proportional punishment or receive a divine pardon
Catholic – man is an animal that never existed before conception
Then while mortal – you better such up to the church as much as possible
at death you just sleep in the grave – until your judged dead or divine pardon alive
Baptist - man is an animal that never existed before conception
Then while mortal – you better fear God as much as possible
Because at death most of you will burn in hell fire for ever
Presbyterian - man is an animal that never existed before conception
Then while mortal – you seek the lord – seek salvation
at death you suffer proportional punishment or divine pardon
I think Jewish – the Jewish concept of From God we come and to God we return predates Jesus Christ by 25 centuries
We pre-existed our mortal conception – with the angels in heaven during the First AION / Age
It is the second age in which man comes into this mortal / corporeal world for a souljourn
Very Jewish – very Christ like – we are in His image -