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Hidden From the Hour of Trial
'Prophecy Watch' by Ronny H. GrahamThe concept of being hidden holds significant weight in the context of God's protection during times of tribulation. There is a persistent belief that the church will be taken out of the turmoil of the Great Tribulation and hidden in a Place of Safety, as suggested by prophecies indicating that God's faithful will be kept from the hour of trial that will come upon the whole world. This idea of hiding is not unfamiliar in biblical narratives, appearing frequently as a means of protection or concealment, whether out of fear, shame, or wisdom. Examples include Adam and Eve hiding from God, Tamar concealing her identity, Elijah evading Jezebel, and David frequently hiding from Saul and later Absalom. Even God hides His face or His truth from men, and Jesus Himself hid to escape danger or crowds, while the day of His return remains hidden from all. In specific prophecies, such as Ezekiel 5:3, a small portion of hair is bound in the hem of a priest's garment, symbolizing a secure hiding place for a select few. The Hebrew word for bind in this context can mean to keep in a secret place, to guard, or to hide, reinforcing the notion of divine protection. Similarly, in Revelation 3:10, God promises to keep those who persevere from the hour of trial, implying a form of hiding or safeguarding. The Place of Safety is envisioned as the location where God will hide His faithful children at the end, though its exact whereabouts remain a matter of speculation. Despite this protection, Ezekiel 5:4 warns that some initially hidden may later face severe testing, indicating that being hidden is not a guarantee of permanent escape from hardship. The urgency of being hidden in the day of the Lord's anger is echoed in Zephaniah 2:2-3, where the prophet's name itself means "Yahweh has hidden or protected." This theme underscores a call to seek the Lord, righteousness, and humility, with the hope that one may be hidden during the time of wrath. Ultimately, it is Jesus Christ, as our High Priest, who decides who will be hidden from tribulation, judging based on perseverance, adherence to His word, and refusal to deny His name.
Meet the Minor Prophets (Part Three)
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughAs witnesses to the decline and fall of Israel and Judah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, and Haggai report the conditions that led to their defeat and captivity.
Zephaniah (Part Two): God's Wrath on the Whole World
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughEven though the Gentiles will be punished, only Israelites had a special relationship with God, and consequently were more accountable for their failure.
Zephaniah (Part Three): Quick Destruction, Eternal Restoration
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughZephaniah has messages for the remnant of physical Israel, the house of David, and for the faithful remnant from the Israel of God.
Zephaniah (Part One): The Day of the Lord Is Near!
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughZephaniah's prophecy is sharply focused on Judah and Jerusalem because they should have known better. They are ordered to keep silent and consider their sins.
Colossian Law-Keeping
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughNominal Christendom cannot see God's law even though it is in plain sight. In Colossians, Paul reiterates or alludes to all but one of the Ten Commandments.
God's Kingdom in the Parables (Part Three): Hidden Treasure
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeIn Matthew 13, the hidden treasure the man finds provides the spiritual solution to the leaven - corruption - the woman hides in the three measures of meal.
Esther (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughJust as Mordecai conceals Esther, God conceals His people in secret places under the shadow of His wings, in the sanctuary—the fellowship of the church.