The Covenant of God
 

 

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The Tower of Babel: Its Spiritual Meaning

 

A prophetic blueprint revealing the rise and demise of religious organisations and the Man of Sin

 

(Copyright © 2018, 2019, 2024 Peter Donis)

 

​thecovenantofgod.com​​

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version 2.3

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The story of the Tower of Babel, found in Genesis 11:1-9, serves as a prophetic blueprint, illustrating the rise and inevitable downfall of all human religious institutions, denominations, organisations, etc., at the return of Christ. It also reveals the origin of the Man of Sin and the model he would embrace to rise to power and control, enabling him to entrap and subjugate those who answer God's call, ultimately leading to their exclusion at the return of Messiah for those who willingly choose to stay within his system.

 

The study is of great spiritual importance, with far-reaching implications for anyone even remotely identifying with religious organisations, denominations, associations, etc. Its profound impact extends to those directly involved and those who merely depend on them for their doctrines, teachings, calendars, and other resources, even from afar.

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Many readers will see that their well-intentioned ideals of supporting such a spiritual city and climbing its doctrinal tower in the hope of finding eternal life and participating in the First Resurrection have inadvertently led them away from God and placed them in opposition to Him and His anointed one.

 

Many will realise they have not escaped from spiritual Babylon as they had thought. The current state of affairs reveals that most individuals have unknowingly contributed to the growth of a metaphorical representation of this city and its tower while unintentionally recruiting others instead of leaving spiritual Babylon as God has desired. Worst still, they have unwittingly allowed the Man of Sin to be at the centre of their worship.

 

​​​Let us now look at the events surrounding the Tower of Babel in a commentary format.

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​Gen. 11:1 ESV  Now the whole earth had one language and the same words.  

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The answer here may be twofold. Scripture says that the world used the same language and words then. Why does the Bible mention it twice, and what’s its significance? First, it involves syntax, i.e., sentence structure, language rules, and composition.

 

The underlying spiritual implication here is that, just like today, people in the past spoke a common religious language, irrespective of their specific denomination. However, each individual or organisation had a unique understanding and reasoning behind the same spiritual concepts. One such example is the determination and observance of God's weekly Sabbath. Although every religious organisation refers to the same scriptures, they interpret and apply them differently when deciding which day to observe as the Sabbath, when it begins and ends, and how to observe it.

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Religious organisations and denominations from around the world have the potential to come together in a gathering where they share their beliefs in a sacred environment. However, beneath this apparent unity, each individual's mind acknowledges the diverse beliefs those around them hold. Equally to the people of the Tower of Babel, modern-day churches have developed a universal language and dialect that fosters connections and overcomes boundaries, gradually reducing the exclusivity that faith often demands.

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Genesis 11:2  And as people migrated from the east, they found a plain in the land of Shinar and settled there.

 

The concept of direction in the Bible goes beyond physical paths, holding a deeper meaning. It encompasses one's spiritual direction (Isaiah 30:25; Luke 10:30). The wisdom and knowledge of the eastern region were highly respected in ancient times (1 Ki. 4:30). It was from the east that a radiant star, symbolising an angel, appeared, capturing the attention of the wise men who set out on a quest to find the Messiah (Matthew 2:1-2).

 

The direction from which the people were approaching showed that they had completely separated themselves from the source of truth initially presented in the Garden of Eden. Subsequently, the people moved eastward once more, literally and spiritually, distancing themselves from the faith preached by Noah, shown by the location where the Ark had settled in the land of Ararat.

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This concept also resembles the early Church to some extent. Despite Christ establishing the Church personally, many individuals have strayed from the core foundation of Christ's teachings, mission, significance of his sacrifice, and model of the Church.

 

The Church was initially established with the belief in the existence and worship of a One True God, who alone is eternal, invisible and the source of all life. The Church understood Jesus, His Son, to be one of the many Sons of God, but unique in that he was born (begotten) into the Adamic family. They identified him as the first of God's creation and the Angel of God who led Israel in the wilderness. However, over time, the Church has developed different perspectives on the nature of Christ and his relationship with his God and Father (Jn. 20:17). Nowadays, many Christians adhere to a view of the Godhead that aligns more closely with the trinity concept, which originates in Babylon. See the study, ‘Who is God?’

 

In the same way that Christianity has progressed from the East towards spiritual Babylon, its understanding and doctrinal positions have changed, reflecting its surroundings.

 

To address the issue of theft and deceit in His name, God has promised to send a scroll to the house of anyone who engages in such actions. This scroll will remain there until that house's spiritual material crumbles.

 

Zech. 5:1-4 CEV  When I looked the next time, I saw a flying scroll,  (2)  and the angel asked, "What do you see?" "A flying scroll," I answered. "About thirty feet long and fifteen feet wide."  (3)  Then he told me: This scroll puts a curse on everyone in the land who steals or tells lies. The writing on one side tells about the destruction of those who steal, while the writing on the other side tells about the destruction of those who lie.  (4)  The LORD All-Powerful has said, "I am sending this scroll into the house of everyone who is a robber or tells lies in my name, and it will remain there until every piece of wood and stone in that house crumbles."

 

The stealing and telling of lies relates to biblical truths and positions that man has corrupted and falsified. An example of this is the many organisations that have forsaken God's biblical calendar and still use the Gregorian calendar. Many organisations see the blatant error in this and use the Hillel Calendar, established in 358/359 CE, even though it blatantly uses a postponement method of calculating to avoid back-to-back sabbaths or holy days from occurring.

 

Others still see the blatant lie of the Hillel Calendar and use a modified form of it, using the universal conjunction of Jerusalem to determine the start of the month for everyone. This method also creates postponements for some people who do not share the same astronomical skies as Jerusalem, forcing them to cancel the day of their actual new moon if it does not align with Jerusalem’s. For a better understanding, see the study “God’s Biblical Calendar”.

 

We note that the people who sought a flat plain in the land of Shinar are akin to people who want to form a group or are a splinter group that seeks a fresh start, a clean slate, so to speak. There are many reasons for this, such as being disgruntled with how their former organisation was being led, the person leading it, how its funds were being (mis) managed, the lack of transparency, or how badly people were being treated, doctrinal discrepancies, the list goes on and on.  

 

In Verse 2, however, we encounter another issue. When a group of individuals leaves an existing organisation or denomination, they rarely consider the spiritual location and the hierarchical structure of their previous association. Like Abraham, who was forced out of Egypt, God orchestrates circumstances that compel some people to reevaluate their spiritual location and where they should be. Unfortunately, many have become accustomed to living in spiritual Shinar and have made it their permanent residence. People often seek to duplicate the organisation they once belonged to, simply replacing the aspects they disliked, such as the leader, how they managed the organisation or a specific doctrine.

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Genesis 11:3 And they said to one another, “Come, let us make bricks, and burn them thoroughly.” And they had brick for stone, and bitumen for mortar.  

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The people's profound lack of effort in seeking or involving God in their decision-making was clear. They failed to seek God's wisdom and follow His Will. Instead, they sought comfort and validation from one another, relying on their understanding and believing they were acting according to God's commandments.

 

Pro 3:5-8 BSB  Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;  (6)  in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.  (7)  Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil.  (8)  This will bring healing to your body and refreshment to your bones.

 

Notably, the people's initial instinct was to manufacture bricks. Their primary aim was to produce a substantial number of bricks in order to build a fresh foundation for their city and tower. This course of action reveals that those who were involved either were oblivious to God's intention for humanity to avoid congregating under a centralised system and to await the implementation of His Kingdom patiently, or they deliberately ignored His divine will to pursue their desires, presuming they knew what was truly best. (See study paper, ‘What is the Church Model?’).

 

In wanting to create their own centralised religious city, the people were essentially attempting to replicate what Nimrod had already accomplished. They did not realise that they had adopted Nimrod's strategy, system, and mindset. They were oblivious that someone had spiritually conquered them and exerted their spiritual will over them long before they compiled their first (doctrinal) brick.

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When comparing the people's initial decision to build with that of Christ when he began his ministry, it is important to note that Jesus did not urge those around him to establish a centralised spiritual organisation in Jerusalem, complete with a hierarchical structure that mirrored God's ultimate plan. It is crucial to remember that Christ, the rightful king of that kingdom, abstained from such endeavours because his kingdom does not belong to or originate from this world. 

 

Jn. 18:36-37 BSB  Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world; if it were, My servants would fight to prevent My arrest by the Jews. But now My kingdom is not of this realm.”  (37)  “Then You are a king!” Pilate said. “You say that I am a king,” Jesus answered. “For this reason I was born and have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to My voice.”

 

Christ was born and came into our world to bear witness to the truth. He revealed God had chosen him as the king of His kingdom that exists beyond this world and age. He rejects any attempts or versions of establishing a centralised, hierarchical power structure with himself in charge, which man stubbornly continues to pursue.

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Let's not forget, the disciples, BEFORE they were converted, when they were amongst themselves, and not in Christ's presence, did they argue which of them was greater (Mk. 9:33-35). When left to ourselves, our carnal mindset seeks to establish a pecking order, i.e., a hierarchical order of power and dominance.

 

Contrary to this line of thinking, Jesus consistently opposed it and taught his disciples that it should not be how we operate. Those who currently use a centralised, hierarchical model do so solely for the purpose of controlling and dominating their congregation. In essence, they resemble spiritual Gentiles. On the other hand, Christ came as a humble servant and served others. He did not seek recognition from the State or establish a centralised, hierarchical power structure in order to be served. Consequently, his body, the Church, should not do so either.

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Lk. 22:24-26 (BSB)  A dispute also arose among the disciples as to which of them would be considered the greatest.  (25)  So Jesus declared, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those in authority over them call themselves benefactors.  (26)  But you shall not be like them. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who leads like the one who serves.  (27)  For who is greater, the one who reclines at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines? But I am among you as one who serves.
 

After Christ's ascension, none of Christ's disciples raised the issue of who among them, or anyone else for that matter, should be appointed leader of the Church. Christ's message and example finally got through to all of them. They all saw Christ as the only leader of the Church upon his ascension. No one dared elevate themselves above his brethren or comrades (cf. Ps. 45:7). It was completely and unanimously understood and never questioned again by the disciples. 

 

Christ intentionally did not appoint anyone to lead the Church in any capacity before ascending to heaven. This decision was not an oversight but a purposeful measure to prevent disputes over a leadership position that belongs exclusively to him. It ensured Christ kept the position of leader of the Church in Heaven and on earth. No other individual can lay claim to the position of head of the Church on earth or in heaven (cf. Isa. 9:7; Phil. 2:9; 1Cor. 3:1-9; Eph. 1:22-23). This includes positions and titles that seek to elevate any person above another in the same supporting role, such as head pastor, head bishop, teacher, or head or lead minister (Mat. 23:6-11). See paper ‘What is the Church Model?’

 

Take Him By Force

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When the people of Jesus' day saw that he was the prophet who was to come into the world, they sought to take him by force to make him king.  

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Jn. 6:14-15 (ESV) When the people saw the sign that he had done, they said, "This is indeed the Prophet who is to come into the world!"  (15) Perceiving then that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, Jesus withdrew again to the mountain by himself. (emphasis added)

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​Christ was not willing to accept the role of King or leader of Israel as a man by the people in this present age. Christ withdrew to the mountain by himself to prevent it from happening.  

 

We can draw parallels with what denominations, organisations, associations, etc., still attempt to do today. Despite their differences, they all recognise Jesus as their King, and each one figuratively attempts to take Christ by force and make him their King within their own constructed systems. However, it is vital to realise that Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever (Heb. 13:8). Sadly, they fail to understand that Christ has not and will not assume the role of King in any earthly kingdom that man has its hand in establishing. In their case, he has symbolically withdrawn to the mountain of God, where he now sits at the right hand of God Most High.

 

In his conversation with Pilate, Christ concludes by stating, "Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice." Therefore, we need to ask ourselves: Are we listening to the voices of men who want to build or join a literal spiritual kingdom now, who accept or appoint themselves as king (leader) of a denomination, or are we hearing Christ's voice, which calls us to patiently await the establishment of God's Kingdom upon his return?

 

When a group forms or becomes a splinter group, it typically engages in deep discussions. The emphasis is on formulating its own beliefs to establish a unique identity while finding comfort in the fact that it is about to develop its version of a spiritual city, where none of them will be scattered. The group then individually examines its beliefs, carefully evaluating them against what it has learned from the past that still appears to hold to scripture. Each doctrine is thoroughly scrutinised and reevaluated as the group strives to lay the groundwork for a new entity with as few imperfections as possible. This is done to address past issues that have plagued the group.

 

When a breakaway happens, it is common for many of these individuals to have a deep understanding of the process involved in creating 'doctrinal' bricks. This is evident in their initial proposal to start building them. The proposal was not asking for suggestions on what to do next but rather a call for a collective effort to make bricks to construct a city and tower, as we can see.

 

These groups often consist of individuals who have dedicated their adult lives to working in various organisations. As a result, they have acquired extensive knowledge and expertise in their operational aspects.

 

Genesis 11:4  Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the heavens, and let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be dispersed over the face of the whole earth.”

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Humanity aspires to connect with God and is motivated by an inherent longing. However, we consistently stray from God's intended path. In our tireless pursuit, we often overlook the importance of true meekness. Instead, we approach God with a skewed understanding of humility, boasting about our importance, accomplishments, and self-sufficiency.

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From the beginning, mankind understood God's plan for redemption and eternal life through submission to His will in Christ. We have to be willing to deny our carnal self, pick up and carry our cross daily, and follow Christ. This concept is pivotal in Abraham's calling.

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Gen. 12:1 (BSB) Then the LORD said to Abram, “Leave your country, your kindred, and your father’s household, and go to the land I will show you.

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God called Abraham to leave his country, relatives, and father's household and go to a new land that the Lord would show him. The existing cities surrounding Abraham were completely polluted spiritually. God wanted him to leave all of that behind and bring none of it with him. This emphasised that every facet of Abraham’s world had lost sight of the requirements for salvation, and it no longer could be attained in Shinar. Accepting the call meant that Abraham had to be willing to dismantle his entire belief structure and leave it all behind to survive and thrive. The call is still the same today.

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In the same way, God calls us to come out of spiritual Babylon with fierce determination.

 

Jer. 51:6 Flee from Babylon! Escape with your lives! Do not be destroyed in her punishment. For this is the time of the LORD's vengeance; He will pay her what she deserves.

 

Isa. 48:20 Leave Babylon! Flee from the Chaldeans! Declare it with a shout of joy, proclaim it, let it go out to the ends of the earth, saying, "The LORD has redeemed His servant Jacob!"

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Jer. 51:9 "We tried to heal Babylon, but she could not be healed. Abandon her! Let each of us go to his own land, for her judgment extends to the sky and reaches to the clouds."

 

The only thing out of the land of Shinar that reached as far as heaven was her sins.

 

Rev. 18:4-5 AFV  And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, "Come out of her, My people, so that you do not take part in her sins, and that you do not receive of her plagues,  (5)  For her sins have reached as far as heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities.

 

No one reached or attained salvation via any of its cities or towers. Nothing in spiritual Shinar (Babylon) is acceptable or worth saving. Like spiritual Egypt, it is considered unclean (Isa. 52:11).

 

It reflects the same spiritual mindset of the people of Sodom. Lot urged his sons-in-law, "Get up, get out of this place, for the LORD is about to destroy the city!”  (Gen. 19:14). Despite Lot's close relationship with these men and his esteemed position in the city, they dismissed his warning as a joke. They were unable to comprehend the city's utter wickedness and moral decay, both in physical, moral and spiritual terms. The city's people had reached a point of no return, given that not even ten people who walked in righteousness could be found. 

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​When Abraham arrived in Canaan, it is noteworthy that he refrained from building his own city despite being personally called and guided by the Lord. He had all the necessary resources - land, wealth, manpower, and expertise - but consciously chose not to engage in such an endeavour. Instead, he decided to remain a tent dweller.

 

Interestingly, Abraham never set foot in any city built by man after that. This has significant spiritual implications for us. Abraham didn't look backward at how everyone else sought God’s favour and salvation in centralised, hierarchical systems dictated by man. He looked forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God (Heb. 11:10; 2 Cor. 5:1-10).​

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​The desire of man to construct his own city and a tower that reached into the heavens was a futile attempt to create his own version of the Kingdom of God on earth, in the here and now. It was also a way for him to manufacture and design his own path towards the divine presence of God. This meant he believed he had ultimate control over who could access this path and what they needed to believe, do, or say. However, in this pursuit, he lost sight of the fact that Christ is the only true way, the ultimate truth, and the source of life. It is through Christ alone, not through a tower or city, that man can come to the Father (Genesis 4:3; John 14:6).

 

The original Hebrew text contains "whose top into or like heaven". From this, we can infer that the people also strove to establish a hierarchical power structure that would be considered an extension of God’s power and authority here on earth. Creating a top, i.e., ‘leader’, could then be viewed as similar in power and stature to Christ. It was a way to undermine the pre-eminence of Christ (Col. 1: 15-19) and place man equal to or in place of Christ.

 

By doing so, they aimed to assert their authority and control over the faith, positioning themselves as the ultimate earthly representatives of God's power. This blurred the distinction between the authority bestowed upon Christ and the limitations placed upon us, which included not exercising dominance over one another. It also revealed a sense of envy towards Christ, who held the highest position in God's creation (Mk. 15:9-10).

 

Similarly, rather than waiting for Christ to return to implement the Kingdom of God, the cities of men (i.e., organisations) offer mankind the opportunity to experience a version of it now. It avoids the much-needed accountability, correction, discipline, patience, teaching, learning, subjugation, and submission to God's word and will. They also have access to a Christ figure in the form of their leader, who leads them in a spiritual battle. 

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Worshipping An Idol

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​The Third Commandment tells us not to make for ourselves images that are in heaven above or the earth below (Exod. 20:4).

 

Exod. 20:4-5 ISV  "You are not to make for yourselves an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above, or on earth below, or in the water under the earth.  (5)  You are not to bow down to them in worship or serve them; because I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the iniquity of the parents, to the third and fourth generations of those who hate me,

 

Establishing a version of the Kingdom of God, be it a religious organisation, denomination, association, etc., now, on earth, no matter how good we believe our intentions are, is just that, an image of the Kingdom God will implement on the return of Christ. Thus, it becomes an idol. In doing so, we take the Lord's name in vain (Exod. 20:7), usurping the power, timing, and position of God and His Son. 

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We must not disregard one of the most significant concerns associated with man-made organisations and denominations. Many times, a single individual possesses unparalleled power and authority. This person holds an exclusive title, signifying they occupy the highest position or rank. Some are unabashed to say they are the Church's leader, and in no uncertain terms, so does their congregation.  

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By asserting themselves as the head of the Church, and thus, head of the body, they come in Christ's name: power, authority, position, honour, and status.

Being at the 'top into or like heaven’ is an attempt by people to replicate a Christ-like authority figure here on earth. These false Christs have deceived many.

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Mat. 24:5 BSB  For many will come in My name, claiming, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many.

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​By rejecting the Church model and establishing a hierarchical structure with a single individual overseeing all church operations, they believe they are creating a representation of the temple, the body of Christ, complete with a stand-in for Christ. However, in doing so, they unintentionally create an image of Christ himself, who lives in heaven and guides the Church. Consequently, their leaders inadvertently become idols of Christ.

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​Shortcut to Glory

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These cities essentially provide shortcuts which the devil understands all too well. He tempted Christ with the offer of all the world's kingdoms, including all the religious kingdoms (organisations, associations, affiliations, etc.), throughout history on the condition that he worshipped him.

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Lk. 4:5-8 EMTV  Then the devil, leading Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.  (6)  And the devil said to Him, "All this authority I will give You, and their glory; because it has been given to me, and I give it to whomever I wish.  (7)  Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours."  (8)  And Jesus answered and said to him, "Get behind Me, Satan! It is written, 'You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.' "

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The devil continues to pose the same type of questioning he did to Christ. However, today, it's to his body, the Church: Are we willing to endure testing, isolation, rejection, discipline, learning, unlearning, patience, obedience, sacrifice and painful growth while we wait for the Kingdom of God? And are we willing to work out our own salvation in fear and trembling? (Phil. 2:12). Or do we go straight into an organisational city with its centralised power, ministry, community, social structures, countless studies, papers, videos, and booklets? 'On top' of all that, is a leader who, for all appearances, is "legitimately in the place of Christ," who leads them, asserting their power and authority from above?

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Ultimately, we come to understand that establishing a religious organisation or denomination is a direct challenge to God's will and timing. Many of these organisations promote the idea that there will be a smooth transition from their current beliefs, hierarchy, and leadership to Christ when he returns. In the meantime, all that is required of them is to obey their present leader, no matter how tyrannical his rule is.

 

Make Ourselves a Name

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The people wanted to make a "name for themselves." They wanted to establish a lasting legacy that would live through the ages. They believed they could achieve this independently, even though it was outside God's expressed Will. However, history has shown that none of their names have stood the test of time.

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Even today, organisations and denominations continue to strive for a lasting name and legacy in this realm and the next. One way they do this is by choosing a name that implies a direct affiliation with God or His Son. Some examples include the 'Church of God' and the 'Body of Christ.' The most common approach is registering their group's name with the State and seeking incorporation. Financial matters, including the collection of tithes, donations, and offerings, are among the reasons. In addition, incorporating helps minimise or eliminate the liability risk for individuals.

 

In comparison, we see Abraham do the complete opposite.

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Gen 12:1-2 BSB  Then the LORD said to Abram, “Leave your country, your kindred, and your father’s household, and go to the land I will show you.  (2)  I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. (Emphasis added)

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Abraham left Shinar, which gave him a sense of belonging. It represented his separation from that society's beliefs, social pursuits and practices. His kindred, symbolically representing those who shared the same faith within the boundaries of Shinar, also took part in the social and religious festivals to varying degrees. By leaving his father's household, Abraham symbolised his departure from the spiritual beliefs his family and ancestors observed.

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Notably, Abraham did not bring any pagan Babylonian observances or celebrations like Christmas, Easter, a Babylonian corrupted calendar or birthdays with him on his journey. Abraham's willingness to obey God and leave everything behind brought him abundant blessings and earned him the title of the father of all who believe (Rom. 4:16).

 

Christ requires the same faith from each of us. Jesus emphasises that in the same way, each of us who does not forsake all he possesses cannot be his disciple (Lk. 14:33).

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God instructed Adam, Eve, Noah, and their family to venture out, multiply, and populate the earth (Gen. 1:28, 9:1). Observing this command reflects a commitment to follow all of God's commandments and statutes, bearing fruits of the spirit, while being guided by Christ in seeking the Will of God, teaching each generation to follow suit. It also suggests that they grasped the concept of the Church model and that they were expected to adhere to it, regardless of how vast their numbers became.

 

The intention was always for them to worship with Christ at their head. Under no circumstances were people allowed or encouraged to usurp that authority. Christ reiterated this theology to his disciples (Mk. 10:42-44; Mat. 20:25-28; Lk. 22:25-26).

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​Nimrod - The Rise of the Antichrist Rebel

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In the previous chapter of Genesis, we see Babel marked the 'beginning' of Nimrod's kingdom.

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Gen 10:8-12 JPS  And Cush begot Nimrod; he began to be a mighty one in the earth.  (9)  He was a mighty hunter before the LORD; wherefore it is said: 'Like Nimrod a mighty hunter before the LORD.'  (10)  And the beginning of his kingdom was Babel, and Erech, and Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar.  (11)  Out of that land went forth Asshur, and builded Nineveh, and Rehoboth-ir, and Calah,  (12)  and Resen between Nineveh and Calah - the same is the great city. (Emphasis added)

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People interpret the name Nimrod as "we will revolt," evoking a sense of rebellion that opposes God. According to the biblical account, we discover that Babel, Erech, Accad, and Calmeh, in the land of Shinar, were 'the beginning of Nimrod's kingdom' (Gen. 10:9-10). Unlike Cain, who established an independent city (Gen. 4:17), Nimrod took it a step further and established a kingdom that encompassed the known world. Nimrod's method and movement gave rise to the first global religious movement, which continues to shape our present reality.

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God knows the end from the beginning. His word reveals that Nimrod would serve as a poignant reminder that a prominent system would inevitably emerge, standing in opposition to 'all that Jesus began both to do and teach' (Acts 1:1).

 

It becomes apparent that those who aspired to forge their own hierarchical, centralised belief systems would be reliant on the state's approval and permission.

 

Like today, those who seek to establish a Gentile-based form of religious hierarchy, such as an organisation, association, etc., must first seek incorporation by the state to operate legally. In building their own centralised religious city, the people were ultimately trying to emulate what Nimrod had already achieved.

 

Forewarned in the Book of Daniel

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The Church was never meant to depend on this world's approval or licensing for its existence, as it symbolically represents Christ. Christ himself did not require permission or approval from the State to live a life by God's will and spread the Good News of the Kingdom to come.

 

Only when we decide to go beyond the body of Christ and the Church model he established and seek to operate more like a business than the House of God do people seek incorporation by the State. Scripture reminds us that we are the potter's clay, and God is that potter.

 

​​Isa. 64:8 Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.

 

However, it is undeniable that there has been a noteworthy cultural shift in how churches operate within a relatively brief span of time.

 

In the present day, the vast majority of churches have embraced the notion that it is customary to register and incorporate themselves with the State. Regrettably, they seem to overlook the fact that scripture had foretold this very path that the Church would eventually follow, ultimately leading to its own demise.

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Dan. 2:41-45 LEB  And just as you saw the feet and the toes, partly potter's clay and partly iron, it will be a divided kingdom; and some hardness of the iron will be in it, just as you have seen the iron mixed with the wet clay.  (42)  And as the toes of the feet were partly iron and partly clay, so part of the kingdom will be strong and partly brittle.  (43)  And in that you saw the iron was mixed with wet clay, so they will mix in marriage and they will not cling to one another, just as iron does not mix with clay.  (44)  And in the day of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, and the kingdom will not be left for another nation, and it will bring an end to all these kingdoms, but it will stand forever.(45) Inasmuch as you saw that a stone from the mountain was chiseled out but not by hands, and that it crushed the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver and the gold, thereby the great God made known to the king what will be in the future, and the dream is certain and its explanation trustworthy." (Emphasis added)

 

The final phase of this system comprises two earthly materials: hard iron and wet clay. These earthly materials symbolise the two beasts mentioned in the book of Revelation. One represents the civil governments of man, while the other represents Satan’s attempt to convince the Church to establish a version of the kingdom of God on earth but in the likeness of the Gentiles' rulership, thus placing man at the centre of its worship.  

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Rather than seek the marriage supper with the Lamb, a considerable portion of the Church has sought a marriage union of sorts with the Gentile civil governing bodies that Satan manipulates through incorporation.

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According to Daniel 2:44, the phrase “in the days of those kings” likely refers to our present era, when individuals seek to obtain a marriage licence from the State through incorporation to establish an image of the kingdom of God in the likeness of a centralised, hierarchical civil government.

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Each of these earthly kingdoms has a human king, and Christ is not the ruler of any of them. Therefore, these leaders can be biblically referred to as kings. It is at this time when the God of heaven will establish an everlasting kingdom that will surpass and replace all these earthly kingdoms. This emphasises the significance of the title "King of Kings" on Christ's robe and thigh (Rev. 19:16), highlighting the reality and magnitude of His authority and kingdom over civil governments and every spiritual kingdom that thinks it is the very Kingdom of God.

 

God will send Christ back, and He will bring about the destruction of the iron, bronze, silver, gold, and clay. This outcome is not solely limited to world political, business, and government entities. Any church that has forged a union or alignment with the world by pursuing registration, incorporation, or adoption of a centralised, hierarchical structure will encounter its own demise.

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Gen. 11:5 But the LORD came down to see the city and the tower that the people had started building.

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We note that the Lord had to come down from heaven to see the city and the tower that the people had started building. It denotes a spiritual detachment and negativity to all that was taking place. 

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The construction of the city and tower was attributed solely to man. At no point did man seek or receive God's authorisation, design, or approval. This also includes the motives and reasoning behind their construction. God's unchanging nature means He feels the same way about any religious organisation or denomination that came after the city and tower.

 

The city and its tower stood as a testament to the power of human imagination and rebellion, devoid of God's blessing. At every level, the absence of God's approval and divine design was glaringly apparent. The Church, too, should have learned from this lesson. However, they, too, have mostly disregarded God's will in the same manner.

 

Christ does not guide nor lead any spiritual cities guilty of the same rebellious attitude now. 

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Mat 7:21-23 BSB  Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven.  (22)  Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  (23)  Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’

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Psa. 26:4-6 BSB  I do not sit with deceitful men, nor keep company with hypocrites.  (5)  I hate the mob of evildoers, and refuse to sit with the wicked.  (6)  I wash my hands in innocence that I may go about Your altar, O LORD,
 

In order to determine whether our actions please God, we must ensure that they align with the will of the Father in Heaven. It is not enough to simply acknowledge Jesus as Lord, prophesy, perform miracles, or cast out demons in his name. If we worship within systems that go against God's will, we should not be surprised to hear Jesus say, "I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness!"

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If we truly love God and His Son, Jesus Christ, we will keep His commandments (Jn. 14:15, 23; 15:10, 1Jn. 2:3; 1Jn. 5:3; 2Jn. 1:6). How can the Church, a symbol of the spiritual bride of Christ, say we love him, all the while going against his express wishes, and seeking to establish ourselves equal to him, undermining his position and authority as head of the Church? Coupled with this is allowing another man to rule over us in his place while we wait for his return.

 

It does not matter how pious, spiritual or devoted we make ourselves to be; we are guilty of committing spiritual adultery when we serve within a system that places a man at the head of it, who in turn becomes the head of every man and woman. Thus, we can no longer be considered spiritual virgins.

 

We must not allow ourselves to be corrupted by organisations, associations, denominations, and similar groups. In scripture, a Church is symbolic of a woman. Thus, in Revelation 14:3-5, we can see how the immoral women are representative of those systems that are in union with the State.

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Rev 14:4-5 BSB  These are the ones who have not been defiled with women, for they are virgins. They follow the Lamb wherever He goes. They have been redeemed from among men as firstfruits to God and to the Lamb.  (5)  And no lie was found in their mouths; they are blameless.

 

Scripture shows that none of the 144,000 are redeemed from those who spiritually defile themselves in following human leadership within these counterfeit systems (i.e., women). Instead, the 144,000 are distinct in that they follow the Lamb wherever he leads them and have no lie found in their mouths. 

 

In Luke chapter 13, Christ tells us to make every effort to enter through the narrow door. He then tells us that many will try to enter and will not be able to.

Lk. 13:22-28 BSB  Then Jesus traveled throughout the towns and villages, teaching as He made His way toward Jerusalem.  (23)  “Lord,” someone asked Him, “will only a few people be saved?” Jesus answered, (24) “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able.  (25)  After the master of the house gets up and shuts the door, you will stand outside knocking and saying, ‘Lord, open the door for us.’ But he will reply, ‘I do not know where you are from.’  (26)  Then YOU will say, ‘We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.’  (27)  And he will answer, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers.’  (28)  There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but you yourselves are thrown out. (Emphasis added)

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The claim to have 'ate and drank' with the Messiah symbolises the Passover bread and wine. It also incorporates all that he stands for and believes in (cf. Isa. 55:1; Mat. 5:6; Jn. 4:14, 1Cor. 3:2). They also claim that he taught in their congregations (streets) where they spiritually lived or gathered.

 

Jn. 6:53-57 BSB  So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of Man, you have no life in you.  (54)  Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.  (55)  For My flesh is real food, and My blood is real drink.  (56)  Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood remains in Me, and I in him.  (57)  Just as the living Father sent Me and I live because of the Father, so also the one who feeds on Me will live because of Me.

 

Wisdom calls out to the highest places, i.e., the tower and the city's walls, to invite the simple and foolish. She invites them to turn and come into her house, eat her bread, drink the wine she has mixed, leave foolishness, and walk in the ways of understanding. 
 

Pro 9:1-6 DRB  Wisdom hath built herself a house, she hath hewn her out seven pillars.  (2)  She hath slain her victims, mingled her wine, and set forth her table.  (3)  She hath sent her maids to invite to the tower, and to the walls of the city:  (4)  Whosoever is a little one, let him come to me. And to the unwise she said:  (5)  Come, eat my bread, and drink the wine which I have mingled for you.  (6)  Forsake childishness, and live, and walk by the ways of prudence.

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You can refer to the paper 'The Passover of the New Testament' to better understand the Passover, its symbols, and how and when it is observed. 

 

In reference to Luke 13:22-28, Christ subtly hints that it may not only be the 'many' individuals who will be unable to enter but refers equally to the collective, i.e., organisations, denominations, etc., that the 'many' also incorporates. We note that Christ uses the singular when referring to the person(s) standing outside knocking. Christ says, 'YOU will stand outside knocking.'..'I don't know where YOU are from'...'Then YOU will say'. But the person replies in the plural. Verse 26, 'Then YOU will say, 'WE ate and drank with you, and you taught in OUR streets'. Christ ends by saying, 'Depart from me, all you evildoers.'

 

Christ addresses individuals and those who identify as part of a denomination. The person’s reply denotes he was confident in the collective ‘many’, i.e., denomination, taking no personal responsibility. The fate of those in Babel-like spiritual cities and towers is weeping and gnashing of teeth. Sadly, many are not able to understand now because of the amount of pride within their walls. 

 

We are to work out our OWN salvation in fear and trembling (Phil 2:12). 

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Exod. 23:2 You must not follow the crowd in doing wrong. When you are called to testify in a dispute, do not be swayed by the crowd to twist justice.

 

These individuals are keenly aware of who the Lord is and address him as such. They are familiar with the house and door where he resides. They have partaken in the symbols of Christ, such as the Passover, indicating that they have some understanding that God has commanded us to observe Sabbaths, Feasts, and holy days. They believe that he has taught them in their streets. However, despite all this, Christ tells them, "I do not know where you are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers."

 

Upon careful examination of his response to the multitude of people, it becomes apparent that Christ also provides an explanation as to why they were banished. He states there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when they see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets. This may not imply a literal sighting but more a realisation of why all these individuals are in the Kingdom of God.

 

Christ is specific in identifying that it is in the Kingdom of God and not in one of the tens of thousands of organisational kingdoms that man had created Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets were in. 

 

Heb 11:8-10 BSB  By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, without knowing where he was going.  (9)  By faith he dwelt in the promised land as a stranger in a foreign country. He lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise.  (10)  For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.

 

It reflects the total rejection of all man-made systems and acknowledges that every attempt of man to create a centralised, hierarchical system has its foundations in spiritual Shinar. It is prophesied that every piece of doctrine that holds these houses together will crumble. God did not deliver us from spiritual Egypt so we could return to Shinar.

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Regardless of how intense things heat up spiritually, Christ should always find us figuratively worshipping the Father free from any system of this world. Abraham serves as a perfect example of this.

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Gen 18:1-2 BSB  Then the LORD appeared to Abraham by the Oaks of Mamre in the heat of the day, while he was sitting at the entrance of his tent.  (2)  And Abraham looked up and saw three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he ran from the entrance of his tent to meet them and bowed low to the ground.

 

Abraham’s worship was not dictated or bound by any of man’s made systems. He worshipped God in spirit and in truth. Due to his physical and, more importantly, spiritual position, he could see the Lord and two other angels, and he rose to meet them. Abraham placed himself in a position where he could meet and greet anyone hospitably. In the running to meet them, Abraham demonstrated a genuine warmth of an unsophisticated character. The city of men can sometimes be quite cold, formal, and uninviting. Some have stringent protocols one has to go through first to even fellowship with them (Isa. 58:7; Lev. 19:33; 24:22; Mat. 25:40). 

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Genesis 11:6  And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. 

 

The people's one language illustrates that they all embraced an idolatrous language of salvation. Each person was in unison in forsaking God and twisting His Word, rendering themselves incapable of a covenantal relationship. Yet, in their eyes, they believed they were walking the path of righteousness. Their doctrines, they thought, had led them metaphorically to the very throne room of God.

 

Unbeknownst to them, the sight of their actions evaded their perception as they surrendered the divine authority of the Lord, replacing it with the heavy yoke of human control. Oblivious to the subtle shift, they likely justified their subservience to man's will, perhaps convinced it displayed unwavering devotion and loyalty to their God. It may also have been skilfully presented to them that way.  

 

​This unwavering loyalty has resulted in a gradual dilution of faith, met with minimal opposition. These leaders are, in some instances, free to introduce any heretical beliefs they desire. They could manipulate the calendar, adding or removing sacred days at will. They had the power to redefine and even replace Christ as the centrepiece of Passover. The symbols representing Christ could be altered or eradicated according to man's whims and desires, and everyone had to follow suit.

 

Most times, the congregation is unwilling to speak up out of fear. These structures hinder their capacity to think critically, engage in rational discourse, raise inquiries, and exercise independent decision-making. This arrangement inevitably fosters an atmosphere of oppressive uniformity, devoid of any room for questioning or dissent. The Church's previously autonomous and independent structure had reached its conclusion.

 

Under the firm control of one individual, absolute uniformity quickly emerges. Regardless of whether an organisation's doctrines align with God's truth, strict adherence to the leader and hierarchy is swiftly and forcefully enforced. Although they may appear clean on the outside of their cup (cf. Mat. 23:25-29), organisations and denominations, at their core, employ manipulative tactics to steer people away from the model of the Church that Christ desires, instead promoting a centralised, hierarchical structure reminiscent of the civil governments of the first beast (Rev. Chapt. 13).

 

Rev 13:11-14 BSB  Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. This beast had two horns like a lamb, but spoke like a dragon.  (12)  And this beast exercised all the authority of the first beast and caused the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose mortal wound had been healed.  (13)  And the second beast performed great signs to cause even fire from heaven to come down to earth in the presence of the people.  (14)  Because of the signs it was given to perform on behalf of the first beast, it deceived those who dwell on the earth, telling them to make an image to the beast that had been wounded by the sword and yet had lived.

 

Once individuals willingly choose to become part of these man-made religious systems that replicate the Gentile style of governance here on earth, to remain and be able to buy and sell, which is figurative of participating in congregations, learning, teaching, exchanging ideas, fellowshipping etc., will be required to receive a mark on their right hand or on their forehead, symbolising their compliance with its doctrines and acceptance of its centralised, hierarchical, Babylonian image that resembles the Gentile world that Satan rules. 

 

Rev 13:16-18 BSB  And the second beast required all people small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their forehead,  (17)  so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark—the name of the beast or the number of its name.  (18)  Here is a call for wisdom: Let the one who has insight calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and that number is 666.

 

This mark has been in play for millennia. It does not come down to one doctrine, such as the forceful adherence to accept Sunday as the Sabbath, as some believe. 

 

A significant number of individuals have already embraced the mark, and acquiring it comes at a straightforward cost. Those who belong to organisations and denominations are aware that admitting doctrinal mistakes, such as incorrect adherence to the biblical Calendar or the Passover, will lead to their expulsion. Consequently, they will lose all their entitlements and opportunities to buy and sell, in other words, participate in the religious system they once promoted. This includes their membership, doctrines, teachings, fellowship, promises of eternity, and more. Essentially, they will be regarded as spiritually dead.

 

Taking the Role of Leadership Away From Christ

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The leader of the Church is a position of power that is exclusively designated to Christ. He is the sole head of both men and women (1Cor. 11:3). For anyone to claim themselves as the leader of a church is a direct attack on the legitimacy and authority that the Eternal has given Christ.

 

When a man assumes the role of a leader in a church, he essentially positions himself above or in lieu of Christ, who is our King and High Priest. One essentially proclaims themselves as a king by asserting authority as the leader of God's Church. This mindset reflects the spirit of anti-Christ.​

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2Thes. 2:1-12 BSB  Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to Him, we ask you, brothers,  (2)  not to be easily disconcerted or alarmed by any spirit or message or letter seeming to be from us, alleging that the Day of the Lord has already come.  (3)  Let no one deceive you in any way, for it will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness—the son of destruction—is revealed.  (4)  He will oppose and exalt himself above every so-called god or object of worship. So he will seat himself in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God.  (5)  Do you not remember that I told you these things while I was still with you?  (6)  And you know what is now restraining him, so that he may be revealed at the proper time.  (7)  For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work, but the one who now restrains it will continue until he is taken out of the way.  (8)  And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will slay with the breath of His mouth and annihilate by the majesty of His arrival.  (9)  The coming of the lawless one will be accompanied by the working of Satan, with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder,  (10)  and with every wicked deception directed against those who are perishing, because they refused the love of the truth that would have saved them.  (11)  For this reason God will send them a powerful delusion so that they believe the lie,  (12)  in order that judgment may come upon all who have disbelieved the truth and delighted in wickedness.
 

Right away, in verse 1, the Apostle Paul refers to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ AND our being gathering together to Christ. This is likely talking about the two as one event. However, it is possible, given the nature of the topic, that we are looking at two separate issues.

 

We should not be troubled by any spirit, message, or letter that appears to be from God's camp, falsely claiming that the Day of the Lord, when the kingdom of God is established and we are universally united under one authority, has already arrived, i.e., organisations, denominations, associations, etc. We should not fall under peer pressure when people say that a particular organisation and/or its leader is the one. 

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In verse 3, we are instructed not to let anyone deceive us, as we cannot gather together until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed. We are to 'make every effort' to enter through the narrow door (Lk. 13:23). 

 

The rebellion Paul speaks of appears to be the Church, paralleling the same mindset that occurred at the rebellion of the building of the city and the Tower of Babel. In the same way, a great majority of the Church prefers a centralised, hierarchical system, with one man leading them rather than opting for independent, autonomous churches with no centralised authority and where Christ is their only leader.

 

The man of lawlessness is not a singular individual but rather symbolises all those who assume authoritative positions of power within the Church, otherwise known as the temple of God. This ability to ascend to such influential roles is predominantly found within organisations, denominations, and similar entities.

 

This man will proclaim himself to be God. Put another way, he will provide evidence or examples to support his belief in his divine appointment as a leader of the Church. At this junction, we should recall what Christ said in Luke 13:22-28. The people whom Christ rejected observed a version of the Passover and believed Christ taught in their very streets, yet they were completely unaware of the mystery of lawlessness they were involved in.

 

Remember, Christ said he was a king, but his kingdom was not of this world. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to him. That should be at the forefront of our minds. Christ said plainly, 'he is the way, the truth, and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through him' (Jn 14:6). We fail to love the truth, which encapsulates accepting every command of Christ if we allow another man here on earth to be leader over the Church.

 

Christ is our only leader. As such, we cannot take part in any centralised hierarchical incorporated or registered Church without betraying him and denying his name. We must uphold the established model of the Church that Christ established. If not, a strong delusion will be given to us "in order that judgment may come upon all who have disbelieved the truth and delighted in wickedness." (2Thes. 2:12).

  

The man of sin likes to be addressed by various titles referring to his seat of authority in the Church. Some examples are the Head Pastor, Head Minister, Head Elder, President, Coordinator General, and Pastor General.

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The People Love it So

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Unfortunately, the scene unfolding at the Tower of Babel reflects the prevailing condition in the spiritual worship of many churches today. The ministry operates under its own authority, and its people love it so. No one questions the legitimacy of employing a centralised, hierarchical system reminiscent of the control wielded in Babylon. In many instances, congregations harbour a fear of the ministry and its leader(s) that surpasses their fear of God (Jer. 5:20-31). This fear and lack of questioning have led to a dangerous erosion of faith and understanding being practised.

 

The Tower of Babel and its city were created as physical and spiritual fortresses. The people greatly respected what their city and tower achieved. Similarly, many Churches have been deceived into placing their confidence and trust in organisational, incorporated (registered) spiritual fortresses. This misplaced loyalty to a fortress-type structure was unknown to the early Church. The believers gathered together in the homes of fellow believers within their local communities. There was no regional, state, or national oversight. (For more on the original model of the Church, please refer to the paper 'What is the Church Model?').

 

 

 

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