Many years ago, I came across a common eschatological, or “end times” doctrine surrounding the 144,000. I have found this doctrine to be primarily popular among Dispensationalists/Premillennialists, in which the 144,000 mentioned within the book of Revelation are believed to be virgin Jewish men from the 12 tribes of Israel which come through the “great tribulation”. I have seen different variations of this doctrine; however, the main teaching is focused on a literal interpretation, that elevates physical bloodline/descent.
After initially hearing this doctrine, I decided to look into the scripture myself and found it to be in error. The Holy Spirit gave me the most basic understanding of it at that point, and as the years have passed, I have been able to grow in that understanding more clearly, of which I am most thankful. This doctrine is a part of many that surround this eschatological, or “end times” theology known as Dispensational Premillennialism. Which in turn, has given rise to Christian Zionism, or the support the State of Israel, without question and elevating physical Jews as “God’s chosen”.
One of the biggest deceptions that is plaguing Christians today is not knowing who Israel is, not knowing who a Jew is, and not understanding who God’s people are. To not have a solid understanding on those three things has led to much deception, lack of understanding prophesy and even heresy. The 144,000 when examined, while knowing the truth on the above three things, becomes a lot clearer and the false doctrines begin to fall away. I hope that this challenges those who read as well as encourage those who already have this understanding. Continue reading “The 144,000 of the Children of Israel”
