Allusions to Deuteronomy 28 and 29
ALLUSIONS FROM DEUTERONOMY 28 AND 29
IN THE BOOK OF REVELATION,
WITH COMMENTARY
AND INTERPRETATIVE CONCLUSIONS.
By:
Stephen W. Kraner
Dedication:
Dedicated to the noble Bereans that study whether those things be so.
Acts 17:10, 11.
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ALLUSIONS FROM DEUTERONOMY 28 AND 29
IN THE BOOK OF REVELATION
WITH COMMENTARY,
AND INTERPRETATIVE CONCLUSIONS.(1)
By:
Stephen W. Kraner
General Objective.
The general objectives of this paper are:
- To show that the curses of the Deuteronomic Covenant are alluded to in the Book of Revelation.
- Thus, showing that the seven trumpet plagues and the seven last plagues of Revelation have allusions to the covenantal curses found in Deuteronomy 28 and 29, and,
- Showing that the primary identity of the sealed scroll of Revelation 5 is at least the book of Deuteronomy, since the trumpets and the seven last plagues result from the unsealing of
the seven sealed scroll. - To show that the Deuteronomic curses alluded to in Revelation necessitate an original fulfillment in the fall of literal Israel and the destruction of literal Jerusalem, or at least a relationship
thereto. - To show that “the righteousness called forth” by Revelation is described by the statutes and judgements “as set forth in Deuteronomy.”
Definition of an “Allusion” and an Example.
The study of Revelation by examination of the “allusions” found in Revelation, is necessary to the comprehension and correct interpretation of Revelation. An “allusion” is:
- “allusion, n. 1. a passing or casual reference; an incidental mention…” The Random House College Dictionary, Laurence Urdang, Editor in Chief, Stuart Berg Flexner, Managing Editor,
copyright 1972 by Random House, Inc..
An example of an allusion in Revelation is found in Revelation 3:7.
- “7. And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth,
and no man openeth; - 8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.” Revelation 3:7,
8.
Note the phrases: “he that hath the key of David” and “he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and and no man openeth….” Because of these
multiple word parallels, these phrases are an “allusion” or reference to Isaiah 22:22:
- “And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut and none shall open.” Isaiah 22:22.
Examination of the context of Isaiah 22:22 reveals that it is the responsibilities of kingship which is communicated in Revelation 3:7 by its allusion to Isaiah
22:22. Additional word study is required to understand what and why something is to be opened or shut by one who has the “key of the house of David.”
Additional study of the historical role or responsibility of the kings of Israel in “opening and shutting” gates or doors would aid in the comprehension and
interpretation of Revelation 3:7. Following through on this study is not the scope of this paper. The object was to show an example of an allusion, which has
been done.
The Blessings and Cursings of the Deuteronomic Covenant,
With the Promise of Restoration Upon Repentance
And, the Placing of the Curses of the Covenant
Upon the Enemies of Israel.
As noted above, the primary intent of this paper is to show that the curses of the Deuteronomic Covenant are alluded to in the Book of Revelation. The curses for breaking the Deuteronomic Covenant are
found in Deuteronomy chapters 28 and 29. Deuteronomy, chapter 30, describes a prophecy that Israel’s disobedience would bring about the curses of the covenant upon literal Israel; upon their
repentance and obedience, the laying of the curses of the covenant would be upon the enemies of Israel.
Allusions from Deuteronomy 28 and 29
In the Book of Revelation.
Below, are parallels of each reference from Deuteronomy to it’s allusion in Revelation. The “allusion” will be briefly justified.(2) A brief commentary follows each pairing of reference to allusion.
Deuteronomy 1. Deut. 28:23, 24.
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Allusion “no rain” | Revelation 1′. Rev. 11:6.
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Justification of Allusion:
- In the Jewish synagogue, the two witnesses are Moses and Elijah. This is emphasized in their appearance in the mount of transfiguration. (See Matthew 17:1-4; Mark 9:2-5.) In Revelation
11:6, both Moses and Elijah are alluded. Moses is alluded to in the phrase, “have power over waters to turn them to blood.” Elijah is alluded to in the phrase, “to shut heaven that it rain
not…” James 5:17 states:
- “Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.”
- Elijah prayed that Yahweh would honor His Covenant and make the heavens to be as brass because of their covenant breaking. Thus, while the only word parallel is the word, “rain,” this is
a thematic or, “motif” allusion because of the thematic reference to Elijah’s prayer to have Yahweh shut the heavens that it not rain.
Commentary:
- Additional thematic allusions include Rev. 2:20 via the symbol, “Jezebel,” the parallel 3½ years (1260 days), see James 5:17 & Rev. 11:3; and Rev. 13:13 via the false Elijah
“fire-from-heaven” symbolism. The imagery here describes the two witnesses calling upon Yahweh to honor His Deuteronomic Covenant promises to cause the heavens to shut up the rain
from falling upon the covenant breakers.
Deuteronomy 2. Deut. 28:26.
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Allusion “the bodies of the Israel of G-d” shall be available for food to “all fowls of the air” | Revelation 2′. Rev. 19:17-18.
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Justification:
- This is a certain allusion due to the multiple word parallels. The carcases of the Covenant breakers would be “meat unto all fowls of the air,” compares to “all fowls that fly in the midst of
heaven” “eat the flesh of kings,…captains, …mighty men, ect..” The fowls are to be understood both literally as birds, and spiritually as evil angels.
Commentary:
- The reference to “kings, …mighty men, and the flesh of horses and the men that sit upon them” is the imagery of ancient kings going to war with an army of calvary. Since the warning of the
Deuteronomic Covenantal curses was first given to literal Israel, there must first be a fulfillment against literal Israel. Because Revelation is written to the church, an application of the
Deuteronomic Covenant and its curses must be made to the professed spiritual Israel of G-d.
Deuteronomy 3. Deut. 28:27, 35.
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Allusion “sores” | Revelation 3′. Rev. 16:2, 10, 11.
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Justification:
- There is only a one word parallel between the two sets of texts compared above. Deuteronomy promises sores “that cannot be healed.” Sores are poured out in Rev. 16:2, that seem not to heal
even after four other plagues are poured out. See Rev. 16:10, 11. When Rev. 13 and 14 are taken into account, these sores fall upon those that have rejected the warning to not worship the
image of the beast. See Rev. 16:2, 11. Sores that “canst not be healed” make this to be a “topic based” allusion.
Commentary:
- The Covenantal curse that sores would come to covenant breakers is to be fulfilled in the fulfillment of the prophecy of the first plague.
Deuteronomy 4. Deut. 28:28, 29.
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Allusion “blindness” “darkness” | Revelation 4′. Rev. 3:14, 17; 8:12; 16:10.
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Justification:
- [Please note: Three different texts from Revelation are here considered. One text is from the counsel to the angel of the church of Laodicea. One text is from the description of the effect of the
sounding of the fourth trumpet. And, one text is from the description of the effect of the fifth plague. The counsel to the various seven churches contains the expectation that the counsel given
shall be heeded. Thus, the covenantal curse may be removed. In the case of the seven trumpets, these are judgments mingled with mercy. The phrase, “and men repented not…,” occurs
several times implying the possibility that repentence is available. The seven last plagues, in contrast, are the full wrath of G-d with no mixture of mercy. The reader is advised to temper
his understanding of the meaning of the allusion accordingly. This applies to the contextual setting of other allusions discussed in this paper.] The word, “blindness,” and the word,
“darkness,” are the only words parallelled. The specific curse of the Deuteronomic Covenant is an effect upon the mind causing madness, blindness, and astonishment of heart (heart attack).
In Rev. 8:12, one third of the sun, moon, and stars are darkened. While a literal interpretation must first be considered, it should be pointed out that all three, (sun, moon, and stars), are used
as symbols in Revelation, particularly in Revelation 12. Revelation 16:10 should be considered more in a symbolic sense than in a literal sense with the possibility of a literal fulfillment that
confirms the metaphoric fulfillment. This allusion seems to be more “thematic” in a symbolic sense of a metaphoric blindness or spiritual darkness, especially in light of Amos 8:9 and its
context. - “9 And it shall come to pass in that day, saith Adon YHWH, that I will cause the sun to go down at noon, and I will darken the earth in the clear day:
- 10 And I will turn your feasts into mourning, and all your songs into lamentation; and I will bring up sackcloth upon all loins, and baldness upon every head; and I will make it as
the mourning of an only [son], and the end thereof as a bitter day. - 11. Behold, the days come, saith Adon YHWH, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of YHWH:
- 12 And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of YHWH, and shall not find [it].”
- Literal light is withheld to commemorate the famine of the word, “the light unto (our) path.”
Commentary:
- Isaiah 13:9-12. Isaiah 60:2. Joel 2:10,31; 3:15. Micah 3:6..”day is dark over prophets.” Thus, the darkening of the day is the withdrawal of the gift of prophecy or the interpretation of
prophecy. See also 2Peter 1:19; Luke 11:34-36; John 8:12; 12:35. 2Cor.4:6; Eph. 4:18. This comparison of texts leads to the question, or rather perhaps the answer to the question, “What is
the cause of Laodicea’s blindness?” The Deuteronomic Covenantal curse promises blindness and metaphoric darkness of mind when the statutes and judgments are disobeyed. Thus,
Laodicea is metaphorically blind, apparently not knowing terms of the New Covenant, that the Spirit is given with the express purpose of causing the recipient to “walk in YAHWEH’s
statutes and to keep His judgments and to do them.” Ezek. 36:27. The professed Israel of G-d, having not walked in advancing light regarding the statutes and judgments, while in the day of
the gospel and the earth in process of being lightened with the glory of Yahweh has the moon darkened, symbolic of the Covenant Promises; the sun not showing her light, symbolic of the
withdrawal of Covenant Promises fulfilled; and the stars are darkened, symbolic of the withdrawal of the prophetic road map contained in the gospel in the stars. [There are several books
that discuss the subject of the story of redemption contained in the cycle of the zodiac. Satan has worked very successfully to confound, distort, and hide the truths behind the words: “The
heavens declare the glory of Elohim.” Psalms 97:6.] There is hope for Laodicea. She is counseled to buy gold, white raiment, and eyesalve that she might see. When she does obtain the
eyesalve, here is an interesting statement from the pen of Ellen White: - “Eighteenth of Revelation…`Another angel.’..During the Loud Cry…`I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statutes.’ This is the descent of the Holy
Spirit…The Lord will open the eyes of the blind to see His statutes, and will write upon the hearts of the truly penitent His law.” Ellen G. White, Review and Herald, vol. 5,
page 83. [Look up the whole article, its powerful!]
Deuteronomy 5. Deut. 28:38, 39, 42.
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Allusion “locusts” | Revelation 5′. Rev. 9:3-10.
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Justification:
- The word “locust” is the only word parallel. While the primary word parallel is Joel 1:4-7 and 2:4, 5, the foundation for both texts is the Deuteronomy 28:38, 39, 42 text. Both Joel and
Revelation 9 indicate an army while using the locust imagery. Nahum 3:15-17 symbolizes “merchants” as canker worms. See Revelation 18:11, 15 regarding “merchants.” Because of the
significant contrast noted in the commentary below, the word parallel between these two texts would not specifically make this an allusion. But, because of the additional allusion to the “fire
and brimstone” curse of the Deuteronomic Covenant, noted in Allusion 8 below, the weight of word parallels goes to the justification that this is indeed an allusion.
Commentary:
- There is a significant difference between the Deuteronomy and the Revelation texts. The Deuteronomic Covenantal curse is that locusts would eat their trees and grain. In contrast, in
Revelation, the locusts are specifically told to leave grass and trees alone. But, they are to torment men for five months. In a separate paper I show a relationship between Revelation and the
destruction of Jerusalem. Jerusalem was under siege for five months by the Romans. Titus specifically gave the order that no olive or fruit tree be damaged or cut down.
Deuteronomy 6. Deut. 29:17, 18.
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Allusion “Wormwood” | Revelation 6′. Rev. 8:10, 11.
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Justification:
- The word, “wormwood,” is the only word parallel. Interpreting the symbols in the Revelation text assists the comprehension that this is indeed an illusion. Most commentators agree, in the
original historical context, that because the same word translated “angel” is also translated “messenger,” and thus, the angels of the seven churches are actually messengers sent to each of the
seven churches. - The early church believed that once baptized the believers, in particular when congregated, were in heaven.
- “And hath raised [us] up together, and made [us] sit together in heavenly [places] in Messiah Yahushua:” Ephesians 2:6.
- Thus, an angel falling from heaven is a messenger of heaven to the church, metaphorically or spiritually, falling from his exalted position.
- The “fountain” or “fountains of water” has an interesting Scriptural definition.
- “The law of the wise [is] a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.” Proverbs 13:14.
- Add to this text the texts that teach that “the wages of sin is death” and, “sin is transgression of the law,” with the text that equates water with the word, the “fountains of waters”
are Scripturally defined to be “laws.” See Romans 6:23; 1John 3:4; and, Ephesians 5:26. It should also be noted that the Scriptures also present Yahweh as Israel’s fountain. - “13 For My people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, [and] hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.” Jeremiah
2:13. - Next, the word, wormwood, must be examined. Deuteronomy warns Israel that they were to be watchful lest there be any apostasy in Israel to turn to serve other G-ds. The
influence of such a one is likened to the effect of gall or wormwood, making the taste of the affected food or beverage to be bitter. The apostle Paul, in Hebrews, cautions the
Hebrew believers similarly: - “Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of G-d; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble [you], and thereby many be defiled;” Hebrews 12:15.
- Deuteronomy 29:18 warns that Israel should beware lest there should be among them a man or woman who would be as a root bearing gall or “wormwood.” Such a one is found
in the fall of the “star” (angel-minister) of Rev. 8:10, 11. This star is such a bearer of “wormwood,” that his very name is Wormwood! This is the personification of
“wormwood,” just as “Death” is personified in Rev. 6:8 and the Destroyer, “Apollyon” is personified in Rev. 9:11. This fallen messenger embitters the law, or a law, causing the
fountain of truth to become distasteful. This causes men to loose faith and become spiritually dead. Though “wormwood” is the only word directly quoted, this is a certain
allusion because of similar context.
Commentary:
- This author believes that the Book of Revelation has three levels of fulfillment. First, in relation to the destruction of Jerusalem. A local historical fulfillment. See my paper on
the relation between Revelation and the destruction of Jerusalem. Second, in relation to the great history of the Christian church. A historicist fulfillment. And third, in relation
to the Reformation, or remnant church. An end-time fulfillment. Thus, there was an angel minister/messenger that fell away from the truth in relation to the destruction of
Jerusalem. There was either an individual, or a movement that fell away from the truth and poisoned the springs of truth from the Word of G-d in relation to a historicist
fulfillment. This author believes that it was either the bishop of Rome or, the theological school in Alexandria, Egypt. In relation to an eschatological fulfillment, this would
either be someone from the Reformation or, possibly from the Christian Right. An eschatological fulfillment should not exclude the possibility that this fallen messenger will fall
in relation to the loud cry of the third angel of Revelation. And, perhaps, fall from the giving of that third angel’s message.
Deuteronomy 7. Deut. 29:20.
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Allusion “blot out name” | Revelation 7′. Rev. 3:5.
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Justification:
- Multiple word parallels make this a certain allusion.
Commentary:
- The curses of the Deuteronomic covenant lie upon him whose name is “blotted out.” Revelation 3:5 infers that there are names which will receive a “blotting out.” The curse originally given
to literal Israel, must be fulfilled against literal Israel. Then, Covenantal blessings and cursings having been transferred to the church, the new Israel of G-d, the curse must be fulfilled
against those professors of Christianity that apostatize. Eventually, according to Deuteronomy 30:7 the curse will be laid upon the enemies of faithful Israel. The good news of the gospel is
that Messiah bore the curse upon the tree for us.
Deuteronomy 8. Deut. 29:23.
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Allusion “brimstone, and burning” | Revelation 8′. Rev. 9:17, 18; 19:20.
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Justification:
- With the word, “fire,” comparing to the word, “burning,” “brimstone,” and “burning” are the word parallels. The Deuteronomy text indicates that the whole land [of literal Israel] “is
brimstone, and salt, and burning.” The fifth trumpet indicates “fire, smoke, and brimstone” emitting from the mouths of the locust army. Revelation 19:20 indicates a lake of “fire burning
with brimstone” BEFORE the commencement of the 1000 years.
Commentary:
- While the imagery in Revelation 9:17, 18 is that of war, and the context of Revelation 19:20 is also that of war, a consideration should be given to the concept of spiritual warfare.
Deuteronomy 9. Deut. 29:23.
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Allusion “all grass burned” | Revelation 9′. Rev. 8:7.
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Justification:
- Deuteronomy 29:23 states that “no grass would grow” in relationship to the burning of the land with fire and brimstone. Revelation 8:7 states that “all green grass was burnt up.” Therefore,
there are multiple word parallels and, the concept of scorched earth echo that justify this as an allusion.
Commentary:
- This allusion gives support for those who see a literal fulfillment for the first trumpet. Yet, Isaiah 40:6, 7 teaches that grass may be interpreted as “flesh.”
- “5 And the glory of YHWH shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see [it] together: for the mouth of YHWH hath spoken [it].
- 6 The voice said, Cry. And he said, What shall I cry? All flesh [is] grass, and all the goodliness thereof [is] as the flower of the field:
- 7 The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the Spirit of YHWH bloweth upon it: surely the people [is] grass.
- 8 The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the Word of our Elohim shall stand for ever.” Isaiah 40:6-7.
- If Revelation 8:7’s reference is symbolic then, the prophecy in Isaiah 40:5-8 must be considered to be alluded to. Revelation 18:1 speaks of a time when
the earth is lightened with glory. - “1. And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory.”
- Until writing the above it has never occurred to me that there might be a relationship between the angel of Revelation 18 and the first trumpet because
of Isaiah 40:5-8.
An Additional Allusion.
Deuteronomy A. Deut. 32:40-43.
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Allusion “lift up… hand to heaven,… I live forever…. reward them that hate me.” | Revelation A’. Rev. 10:6, 7. See also Rev. 11:15-19.
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Justification:
- This is a certain allusion. Multiple verbal parallels, and parallel topic structure make this a remarkable allusion which needs much further study!
Summary Regarding the Allusions.
Though several of the above allusions are weak, taken together it becomes clear that curses from the Deuteronomic Covenant are alluded to in Revelation. Perhaps the most interesting allusion, (based on
the sum of allusions above) is that of Deuteronomy 32:34.
- “O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end!…Their [Israel’s enemies] wine is the poison of dragons, and the cruel venom of asps. Is not this
laid up in store with me, and sealed up amoung my treasures? To me belongeth vengeance, and recompense; their foot shall slide in due time…” Deuteronomy 32:29, 33, 34, 35.
Elohim wishes that Israel would consider their “latter end.” Apostasy from the covenant, for those who would enjoy the “wine” (teachings) of the enemies of
Israel, would find the wine’s effects to be as poison or venom. These treasures of vengeance were “sealed up.” And, by implication, a time would come when the
treasures of vengeance would be unsealed!
Since the seven trumpet plagues and the seven last plagues can be understood to come from the unsealing of the seven sealed book of Revelation 5, and since,
at least, portions of the seven trumpet plagues and the seven last plagues allude back to the curses of the Deuteronomic covenant, then the seven sealed book
of Revelation 5 MUST ENCOMPASS the Deuteronomic Covenant, with its curses (and its blessings)! No wonder Ellen G. White advises that:
- “The fifth chapter of Revelation needs to be closely studied. It is of great importance to those who shall act a part in the work of God for these last days. There are some who are deceived.
They do not realize what is coming on the earth…Unless they make a decided change they will be found wanting when God pronounces judgement upon the children of men.” Ellen G.
White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, page 267.
Interpretative Conclusions.
Ellen White has informed us that:
- “When the books of Daniel and Revelation are better understood, believers will have an entirely different religious experience. They will be given such glimpses of the open gates of
heaven that heart and mind will be impressed with the character that all must develop in order to realize the blessedness which is to be the reward of the pure in heart.” E.G. White,
Testimonies to Ministers, page 114.
Here then, are the interpretative conclusions which impress my heart and mind with the character that all must develop so as to receive the reward of the pure in
heart.
- 1. The seven sealed scroll of Revelation 5 is the Deuteronomic Covenant, or least it encompasses the Deuteronomic Covenant.
- A. Since the seven trumpet plagues and the seven last plagues can be understood to come from the unsealing of the seven sealed book of Revelation
5, and since, at least, portions of the seven trumpet plagues and the seven last plagues allude back to the curses of the Deuteronomic covenant, then
the seven sealed book of Revelation 5 MUST ENCOMPASS the Deuteronomic Covenant, with its curses (and its blessings)! - B. Something so important as the seven sealed book of Revelation 5 must be mentioned elsewhere in scripture. Surely the seven sealed book in heaven
must have its type in the typical sanctuary on earth. The sanctuary scene described in Revelation 5 is the Most Holy Place because: 1. It is the “throne”
of G-d, 2. the four living creatures are the same as those of Ezekiel 1:10; 10:14, 22. In Ezekiel 10:20-22, we are told that these four creatures are
cherubim. From Solomon’s Temple we learn that there were four cherubim in the Most Holy Place. See 1 Kings 6:23-27 for the two standing cherubim
to which were added the two cherubim of the top of the ark of the covenant. Further evidence that the seven sealed scroll of Revelation 5 is the
book of Deuteronomy is found in Deuteronomy 31:26:
- “Take this book of the law, and put it in the side of the ark of the covenant of YHWH your Elohim, that it may be there a witness against thee.”
- Ellen G. White says regarding this “book”:
- “Moses instructed the children of Israel in an earnest, impressive manner. He knew that it was his last opportunity to address them. He then finished writing in a book all the laws,
judgements, and statutes which God had given him, also the various regulations respecting sacrificial offerings. He placed the book in the hands of the men in the sacred office
and requested that for safe keeping, it should be put in the side of the ark, for God’s care was continually upon that sacred chest.” Ellen G. White, Story of Redemption, pages 171,
172.
2. Since the earthly type had a “book” “in the side of the ark,” then the heavenly anti-type must also have a “book” in the side of its ark!
- That which was placed in the side of the ark included the book of Deuteronomy. Its anti-type is in the heavenly sanctuary.
- Regarding the seven sealed book of Revelation 5, Ellen White states:
- “[Revelation 5:1-3 quoted] There in His open hand lay the book, the roll of the history of God’s providences, the prophetic history of nations and the church. Herein was contained
the divine utterances, His authority, His commandments, His laws, the whole symbolic counsel of the Eternal, and the history of all the ruling powers in the nations. In symbolic
language was contained in that roll the influence of every nation, tongue, and people from the beginning of earth’s history to its close.” Letter 65, 1898, MR# 667. - When we compare what Ellen white says was placed in the side of the Ark of the Mosaic Tabernacle to what Ellen White says was placed in our
Saviour’s hand in Revelation 5, we find that there is a high degree of parallel! - Since Revelation has multiple allusions to the curses of the Deuteronomic Covenant, then the conditions, the terms, for reception of either the blessings
or the curses of the Deuteronomic Covenant are implied. Those conditions according to Deuteronomy are:
- “But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of YHWH thy Elohim, to observe to do all His commandments and His statutes which I command thee this day;
that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee.” Deuteronomy 28:15. - “Moreover all these curses shall come upon thee, and shall pursue thee, and overtake thee, till thou be destroyed; because thou hearkenedst not unto the voice of YHWH thy
Elohim, to keep His commandments and His statutes which He commanded thee: and they shall be upon thee for a sign and for a wonder, and upon thy seed for ever.”
Deuteronomy 28:45, 46. - 3. Therefore, the righteousness called forth by the seven sealed scroll of Revelation 5 is described by the “statutes and judgements” of Deuteronomy.
- Here are three quotations from Ellen G. White regarding the importance of Deuteronomy to Elohim’s people, especially at the end of time:
- “Moses was inspired to utter a prophecy outlining the sure result of apostasy. Plainly he traced the evils that would result from a departure from the statutes of Jehovah … In the last
days of this earth’s history, God’s covenant with his commandment-keeping people is to be renewed.” E.G. White, The Review and Herald, “A Door of Hope,” February 19,
1914, and concluded February 26, 1914. - “The principles set forth in Deuteronomy for the instruction of Israel are to be followed by God’s people to the end of time.” Ellen G. White, Prophets and Kings, page 570.
- “I ask you to study the forth to the eighth chapters of Deuteronomy, that you may understand what God has required of His ancient people that they might be a holy people
unto Himself … We are now in the time of investigation … Let the words of God’s servant recorded in these chapters be read with profit.” E.G. White, 1 SDABC, page 1118. - Note: “Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgements, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may live, and go in
and possess the land.” Deuteronomy 4:1. - The following quotations explain that the statutes are not the ten commandments of the moral law, but illustrate and apply the principles of
the moral law. These statutes and judgements are not ceremonial law. They are an extension of the moral law, intended by G-d “to guard the
sacredness of the ten precepts.”
- “The minds of the people, blinded and debased by slavery and heathenism, were not prepared to appreciate fully the far reaching principles of God’s ten precepts. That the
obligations of the Decalogue might be more fully understood and enforced, additional precepts were given, illustrating and applying the principles of the Ten
Commandments. These laws were called judgements, both because they were framed in infinite wisdom and equity and because the magistrates were to give judgement
according to them. Unlike the Ten Commandments, they were delivered privately to Moses, who was to communicate them to the people.” Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 310. - “…He (God) did not stop with giving them (Israel) the precepts of the Decalogue. The people had shown themselves so easily led astray that He would leave no door of
temptation unguarded. Moses was commanded to write, as God should bid him, judgements and laws giving minute instruction as to what was required. These directions relating
to the duty of the people (1) to God, (2) to one another, and (3) to the stranger were only the principles of the Ten Commandments amplified and given in a specific
manner, that none need err. They were designed to guard the sacredness of the ten precepts engraved on the tables of stone.” Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 364. - “Christ gave to Moses…precepts which were to govern the every day life. These statutes were explicitly given to guard the ten commandments. They were not shadowy types
to pass away with the death of Christ. They were to be binding upon man in every age as long as time should last.” Ellen G. White, Review and Herald, vol. 1, page 164.
Also in SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 1, page 1104.
- Since there are some who find no theological merit in the writings of Ellen G. White, I submit the following comparison of the Deuteronomic Covenant
to the New Testament Covenant. The apostle Paul quotes Deuteronomy to explain “righteousness by faith.” - “But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) Or, Who shall
descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is the word of faith,
which we preach; that if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the L-rd Yahushua, and shalt believe in thine heart that G-d hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans
10:6-9. - It is very interesting that the apostle Paul refers to the following text when speaking of righteousness by faith:
- “If thou shalt hearken unto the voice of YHWH thy Elohim, to keep His commandments and His statutes which are written in this book of the law, and if thou turn unto
YHWH thy Elohim with all thine heart, and with all thy soul. For this commandment which I command thee this day, is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off. It is not in
heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?….But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth,
and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it. See, I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil; in that I command thee this day to love YHWH thy Elohim, to walk
in His ways, and to keep His commandments and His statutes and His judgments, that thou mayest live and multiply: and YHWH thy Elohim shall bless thee…” Deuteronomy
30:10-12, 14-16. - This Scripture is quoted knowing that among the many great scholars there is, and has been, much controversy about this text. What does matter, is
the fact that Paul makes an application of the Deuteronomy text to the New Covenant, the New Covenant which promised to write the Laws of Elohim
on our hearts: - “This is the new covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the L-rd, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them.” Hebrews 10:16. See
also 2 Corinthians 3:3. - It is the gift of Messiah and His righteousness that makes it possible for G-d to write His Laws in our minds, in our hearts, in our affections. The
unfathomable love of G-d — in giving us His only Son to live a righteous life, to die (paying the penalty for our sins), and to ascend to heaven there to
present the merits of His righteousness in our behalf before our Father G-d — this love breaks our hard hearts. And by love, is love awakened. “We
love him, because he first loved us.” 1 John 4:19. Then, warmed by His love, we ask, “How shall I love Thee, O Christ? How do I return thanks to
You?” Then Yahushua answers, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” John 14:15. Thus the New Covenant is fulfilled. The commandments are
written on our hearts and we keep those commandments through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Obedience to the law of righteousness comes
through faith in Messiah’s atonement, and through love for Messiah. - A few further comments on the Romans 10 text. In the way that Paul comments on Deuteronomy 30:12, and 13, he indicates that these two texts are a
prophecy of the gift of Yahushua to humanity, and a prophecy of His death, burial, and resurrection. Deuteronomy 30 links the keeping of the
commandments, statutes, judgements, and laws of G-d, to: “the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth.” And, Romans 10 links salvation to “the
word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth.” John informs us that, “the Word was made flesh.” But, Paul here informs us that the “Word” is the law! The
Law, whether commandments, statutes, or judgements was made flesh! Yahushua ha’Messhiach is the Word of G-d, (commandments, statutes, and
judgements) let down from heaven! The Law describes our Saviour. To reject the law [Torah], is to reject Him. To receive Him, is to receive the law
which describes His character, and by extension the character of those being restored in His image. - The point here is that since Paul alludes to Deuteronomy when defining righteousness by faith, we may deduce that failure to receive that
righteousness shall place us under the same curses of the Covenant which G-d has sought to redeem us from. John substantiates this for us: - “He that believeth on Him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten son of G-d.” John 3:18.
- “…His name is called, The Word of G-d.” Revelation 19:13.
- Furthermore, the allusions in Revelation back to the curses of the Deuteronomic Covenant indicate that the Deuteronomic Covenant, with
both its blessings and its curses, remains in force after Calvary. - “23 And she [Huldah] answered them, Thus saith YHWH Elohim of Israel, Tell ye the man that sent you to me,
- 24 Thus saith YHWH, Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, [even] all the curses that are written in the book which they have read before the
king of Judah: - 25 Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other g-ds, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be poured
out upon this place, and shall not be quenched.” 2Chronicles 34:23-25. - “20. And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh.
- 21 Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto.
- 22 For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.” Luke 21:20-22.
4. Though G-d promised to place all the curses upon the enemies of literal Israel (See Deuteronomy 30:7), since the Deuteronomic Covenantal curses were
spoken first to literal Israel and covenanted to be fulfilled against literal Israel should she apostatize then: Those curses must have an original fulfillment with
literal Israel.
5. Since those curses are alluded to in Revelation, then the student of Revelation must ask, WHY ARE THOSE ALLUSIONS MADE IN REVELATION?,
and WHAT RELATIONSHIP DO THOSE ALLUSIONS HAVE TO A FULFILLMENT OF THE CURSES OF THE DEUTERONOMIC
COVENANT AGAINST LITERAL ISRAEL?, and finally, WHAT DOES THAT RELATIONSHIP MEAN TO ME AND MY GENERATION OF
CHRISTENDOM? The allusions to those Deuteronomic Covenantal curses in Revelation means that Revelation must have a relationship to that original
fulfillment with literal Israel. In my paper titled, THE RELATIONSHIP OF REVELATION TO THE DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM, I show that
there are multiple allusions within Revelation to the destruction of Jerusalem, and the fall of Israel, and therefore that Revelation must have a relationship to the
fall of Jerusalem.
A striking prophecy is recorded in 2Chronicles 34:
Shortly after Josiah is made king of Judah, the Book of the Covenant is “found.” Josiah has it read to him. He rends his garments, realizing how terribly Israel
and Judah have broken covenant with YHWH and the wrath to come as a result. He sends for the prophet, Huldah, who verifies the authenticity of the scroll.
And she makes the prophecy recorded above. Yet, Yahushua [Jesus] spoke of the destruction of Jerusalem saying:
“All things which are written may be fulfilled” includes the curses of the covenant, recorded in Deuteronomy 28 and 29 and the specific prophecy from Huldah
that the curses of the covenant would be poured out upon Jerusalem.
Endnotes:
1. This paper was written prior to my conviction regarding the Sacred Names: “Yahuwah” (the Divine Family name, named after the Father. See Ephesians 3:14,
15); “Elohim” (“God”); and, “Yahushua” (KJV = “Jesus”).
2. It must be acknowledged that the texts reviewed below from Revelation will often have allusions elsewhere in Scripture that have greater word parallels.
Thus, the greater word parallels would be a primary allusion. The prophetic outline of the history of Israel, as laid out in Deuteronomy 30:1-10, is the primary
prophecy upon which all other prophecies in the Old Testament must be subject. Similarly, the record of the history of Israel, as “ensamples [to the
church]..upon whom all the ends of the world have come” [1Corinthians 10:11], is typologically based upon this primary prophetic outline. Thus, as we shall see
with the first allusion, prophecies or typical events in the later history of Israel have their contextual basis in relation to the prophecies and covenantal cursings
found in the last chapters of Deuteronomy.
