A Case for The Lunar Sabbath
Rebuttal to Angel Rodriguez
Director of the Biblical Research Institute
of the Seventh-day Adventist Church
of the Seventh-day Adventist Church
by Kerrie French
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n August of 2008 the page below appeared in the Adventist World Magazine. Angel Rodriguez discussed six premises upon which He bases his views and that of B.R.I., on the subject of lunisolar calendation and its corresponding lunar Sabbath. It is an understatement to describe the influential position and responsibility of Angel Rodriguez or his recent replacement at the B.R.I. (Biblical Research Institute). The doctrinal decisions made by this organization regarding the principles that rule in the heavens, will affect the eternal reward of so many. (Click image below to enlarge)
The position the B.R.I clings to, at the time of this article, is in support of the modern Roman calendar and its cycling week, claiming it to be in harmony with the time-keeping of the Biblical seventh-day Sabbaths.
In harmony with the fundamental views of Angel Rodriguez, Ron Du Preez of the Michigan Conference of S.D.A.'s will release his new book next week (08-01-11). Because "the Sabbath question is to be the issue in the great final conflict," Testimonies Vol.6, p. 352, the decisions made on this subject should be carefully weighed upon the evidence in Scripture alone. Those who do not research this subject for themselves will experience "an overwhelming surprise" when they discover this final conflict over the Sabbath will not be between Saturday and Sunday, as they had believed. Rather, it will be between the Papal Roman calendar and the Creator's lunisolar calendar, and their respective seventh-days.
The intent of this rebuttal is to demonstrate from Scripture that the Creator's time system is irrefutably defined by the three part orchestration of the sun, moon and stars as positioned in the heavens at creation. In addition, it will be demonstrated that these principles that rule in the heavens are not an original, but a duplicate copy of the time-system surrounding the throne of heaven itself and unfallen worlds. A response is requested from the B.R.I.
This subject of "TIME" is of vital consequence to the faithful in the coming great and final conflict. Here presented is weighty evidence for the Creator's lunisolar time system, ordained as the principles that rule in the heavens. Although, this system has been under a perpetual Satanic attack by the enemy and Rome for centuries, it is by the Spirit of truth, our Saviour is redirecting our attention to His lunisolar principles, divinely reserved for such a time as this. Its principles unlock mysteries, never before realized, and stir the soul to dig deeper in preparation for an eternal home.
In harmony with the fundamental views of Angel Rodriguez, Ron Du Preez of the Michigan Conference of S.D.A.'s will release his new book next week (08-01-11). Because "the Sabbath question is to be the issue in the great final conflict," Testimonies Vol.6, p. 352, the decisions made on this subject should be carefully weighed upon the evidence in Scripture alone. Those who do not research this subject for themselves will experience "an overwhelming surprise" when they discover this final conflict over the Sabbath will not be between Saturday and Sunday, as they had believed. Rather, it will be between the Papal Roman calendar and the Creator's lunisolar calendar, and their respective seventh-days.
The intent of this rebuttal is to demonstrate from Scripture that the Creator's time system is irrefutably defined by the three part orchestration of the sun, moon and stars as positioned in the heavens at creation. In addition, it will be demonstrated that these principles that rule in the heavens are not an original, but a duplicate copy of the time-system surrounding the throne of heaven itself and unfallen worlds. A response is requested from the B.R.I.
This subject of "TIME" is of vital consequence to the faithful in the coming great and final conflict. Here presented is weighty evidence for the Creator's lunisolar time system, ordained as the principles that rule in the heavens. Although, this system has been under a perpetual Satanic attack by the enemy and Rome for centuries, it is by the Spirit of truth, our Saviour is redirecting our attention to His lunisolar principles, divinely reserved for such a time as this. Its principles unlock mysteries, never before realized, and stir the soul to dig deeper in preparation for an eternal home.
Daniel 7:25 speaks prophetically that the beast power would "change both times and laws." The Julian calendar, crafted in 45 B.C. served to accomplished this. It was the brain child of Rome, and was the first step taken to sever, for future generations, the knowledge of when to worship, according to the Biblical criteria. In its infancy, the Julian week was eight days in length, and by design was freed from all ties to the lunar phases by a twist of genius, known to modern society as the "continuous-weekly-cycle." Revolving on this early calendar, as the first day of the week, was Saturday. Just over 300 years later, Constantine reformed the week to that of seven days, in which Saturday was placed upon the seventh-day, all the while this improved calendar continued to employ the "continuous-weekly-cycle."
Who would be any the wiser, as this "new" calendar mimicked in form most of the attributes of the time-keeping system put in place at creation? What affect might the presentation of this new style week have had on the Hebrews, who continued to be in Roman captivity, all the while resisting an eight day week in favor of their lunar Sabbath? Might they have swapped their lunar week and Sabbath for this new style seven day week to stop the ongoing persecution? History bears evidence, and Scripture reveals the truth, so that under the heavenly Father's direction and at the appointed time, His faithful may have discernment to discover the truth and be restored to heaven's rhythms for worship. The Creator's calendar has never been in harmony with the wall calendars crafted by Rome. NASA is only able to keep accurate account of "time" as it consistently utilizes the sun, moon and stars. Without the lunar phases there is no accurate divisions of years, months or weeks.
Who would be any the wiser, as this "new" calendar mimicked in form most of the attributes of the time-keeping system put in place at creation? What affect might the presentation of this new style week have had on the Hebrews, who continued to be in Roman captivity, all the while resisting an eight day week in favor of their lunar Sabbath? Might they have swapped their lunar week and Sabbath for this new style seven day week to stop the ongoing persecution? History bears evidence, and Scripture reveals the truth, so that under the heavenly Father's direction and at the appointed time, His faithful may have discernment to discover the truth and be restored to heaven's rhythms for worship. The Creator's calendar has never been in harmony with the wall calendars crafted by Rome. NASA is only able to keep accurate account of "time" as it consistently utilizes the sun, moon and stars. Without the lunar phases there is no accurate divisions of years, months or weeks.
Unfamiliar is no more synonymous with wrong
Than familiar is synonymous with right.
Than familiar is synonymous with right.
In responding to each point, it is my desire that the reader prayerfully weigh the evidence, regardless of its popularity or the reader's current unfamiliarity to the themes and rhythm of the lunar Sabbath. Simply because a subject is different does not automatically disqualify it as having intrinsic value and significance. Therefore, much of the outcome of this rebuttal will depend on the reader's current educated or uneducated paradigm in recognizing all the ways in which Rome has already changed the times of the Creator.
- Years were changed from beginning in spring to commencing in winter.
- Days were changed to begin at midnight.
Is there a reason that the Creator's weeks and months should be left untouched, when in fact these were the target, and most vital to Satan's abolishing worship to the Creator?
You are invited to participate and judge by weighing the evidence. Each question will be given points and each point is equal to a pound of evidence. The choice is between the Saturday Sabbath, as proclaimed by Papal Rome, and Angel Rodriguez of the B.R.I. or the Lunar Sabbath, as proclaimed by the principles that rule in the heavens, and Kerrie French of the Creator's Calendar. Scripture is the standard by which this subject must be weighed and not past experience. Prayerfully ask yourself, which option reveals the weight of evidence in harmony with Scripture?
You are invited to participate and judge by weighing the evidence. Each question will be given points and each point is equal to a pound of evidence. The choice is between the Saturday Sabbath, as proclaimed by Papal Rome, and Angel Rodriguez of the B.R.I. or the Lunar Sabbath, as proclaimed by the principles that rule in the heavens, and Kerrie French of the Creator's Calendar. Scripture is the standard by which this subject must be weighed and not past experience. Prayerfully ask yourself, which option reveals the weight of evidence in harmony with Scripture?
To most effectively present both views, the questions will be followed first by the views of Angel Rodriguez and then followed by Kerrie French's rebuttal and response. All concepts and terms in this document can be further researched at http://www.thecreatorscalendar.com.
Questions:
Question 1a. I've been told that the Biblical Sabbath was a lunar Sabbath fixed to the moon, rather than a specific day of the week independent of the moon or sun. What do you think? 5 Points.
Angel Rodriguez:
Kerrie French's Rebuttal and Response:
I must respond to the opening statement by Angel Rodriguez, declaring, "Any Biblical evidence to support this proposal is lacking," as this sets the reader up to either cancel Scripture as viable altogether or cast great doubt upon this astonishingly relevant subject. In doing so, Angel Rodriguez positions himself as the sole authority on all points of this subject. Has it ever been sound doctrine to exhort believers by declaring, "any Biblical evidence is lacking?" This statement is in conflict with fundamental duty and the grandest virtue among the faithful who are to "search the Scriptures daily to see if these things are so (Acts 17:11)." Scripture alone defines truth, history supports it and astronomy verifies it. Personal feelings outside of these parameters amount to little. The Biblical standard for searching for truth is here stated:
Questions:
Question 1a. I've been told that the Biblical Sabbath was a lunar Sabbath fixed to the moon, rather than a specific day of the week independent of the moon or sun. What do you think? 5 Points.
Angel Rodriguez:
Any Biblical evidence to support this proposal is lacking. Therefore, I feel uncomfortable honoring the issue by addressing it here. But apparently I should say something about it.
If the time for the Sabbath was determined by the moon, then the Sabbath will have to be observed at different days during the month and not on the seventh day of the [Papal Roman] week. The Sabbath could be any day of the week, based on the time of the new moon. Let me say a few things about this matter.
If the time for the Sabbath was determined by the moon, then the Sabbath will have to be observed at different days during the month and not on the seventh day of the [Papal Roman] week. The Sabbath could be any day of the week, based on the time of the new moon. Let me say a few things about this matter.
Kerrie French's Rebuttal and Response:
I must respond to the opening statement by Angel Rodriguez, declaring, "Any Biblical evidence to support this proposal is lacking," as this sets the reader up to either cancel Scripture as viable altogether or cast great doubt upon this astonishingly relevant subject. In doing so, Angel Rodriguez positions himself as the sole authority on all points of this subject. Has it ever been sound doctrine to exhort believers by declaring, "any Biblical evidence is lacking?" This statement is in conflict with fundamental duty and the grandest virtue among the faithful who are to "search the Scriptures daily to see if these things are so (Acts 17:11)." Scripture alone defines truth, history supports it and astronomy verifies it. Personal feelings outside of these parameters amount to little. The Biblical standard for searching for truth is here stated:
For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little, there a little." Isaiah 28:10 NKJV
Angel Rodriguez's statement regarding the Sabbath being determined by the moon, states that if the Sabbath were lunar "the Sabbath will have to be observed at different days during the month and not on the seventh day of the week."
Many people have no knowledge that throughout earth's history mankind has, out of the rebelliousness of their hearts, crafted calendars with different length months and varying length weeks, all to disassociate themselves from the binding claims of the laws of the Creator. Is it possible that the modern Roman calendar named after Pope Gregory may be one of these? If so, would not our loving Creator have provided a set of criteria that defines His true calendar? Would this calendar not contain perfect weeks derived of six work days and a seventh-day Sabbath, all fitting into His preordained and perfect month? Would this not be designed so that we may worship Him according to His correct time-keeping, in harmony with the rhythms of heaven?
Many are not aware that the original Roman Julian calendar week was eight days in length and cycled without end. Saturday, then known as deis Saturni was the first day of the Roman planetary week and was never considered sacred, nor was it ever confused with the Hebrew lunar Sabbath.
Many people have no knowledge that throughout earth's history mankind has, out of the rebelliousness of their hearts, crafted calendars with different length months and varying length weeks, all to disassociate themselves from the binding claims of the laws of the Creator. Is it possible that the modern Roman calendar named after Pope Gregory may be one of these? If so, would not our loving Creator have provided a set of criteria that defines His true calendar? Would this calendar not contain perfect weeks derived of six work days and a seventh-day Sabbath, all fitting into His preordained and perfect month? Would this not be designed so that we may worship Him according to His correct time-keeping, in harmony with the rhythms of heaven?
Many are not aware that the original Roman Julian calendar week was eight days in length and cycled without end. Saturday, then known as deis Saturni was the first day of the Roman planetary week and was never considered sacred, nor was it ever confused with the Hebrew lunar Sabbath.
The modern seven-day week came into use during the early imperial period, after the Julian calendar came into effect, apparently stimulated by immigration from the Roman East. For a while it coexisted alongside the old 8-day nundinal cycle, and fasti are known which show both cycles. It was finally given official status by Constantine in 321. Roman Calendar Encyclopedia, "Days of the Week"
It was Constantine who in A.D. 324, legislated the change from the eight-day week to a seven-day week that cycled without end. Wouldn't the Creator have ordained His week and month to be in harmony with His divinely appointed time principles, rather than the man-made calendar principles of the Pope of Rome? (Genesis 1:14-18)
It is true, that if we are comparing the lunisolar calendar to the standard of the modern Papal calendar, it will appear that the lunar Sabbath floats through the week from one month to another. However, if we use the Creator's lunisolar calendar model as the standard, it is the false Papal "Saturday" that floats from week to week and from month to month. It is of great importance to note that while there are similarities between the two calendar styles they are not in harmony with each other beyond a 30 day period. Each calendar style defines its seventh-day Sabbath on different days.
The A.D. 31 calendar below strikingly illustrates the "Saturdays" of Rome's calendar floating throughout this lunisolar year standard. These "Saturdays" are highlighted in pale green as a visual aide. Each black box represents the first day of a Roman month and illustrates the same floating phenomena as they are unmistakably severed from the Creator's preordained New Moon days. For convenience, each Roman Gregorian calendar date is illustrated in black letters.
In contrast, the lunar weeks and their corresponding lunar seventh-day Sabbaths are clarified by the lunar phases, as each are numbered from New Moon day. Notice the symmetry and perfect order displayed by the New Moon days as they are followed by their weeks and seventh-day Sabbaths, highlighted in blue vertical columns. Each falls consistently throughout the entire year.
As this article will progressively provide support on behalf of the lunisolar calendar, keep in the back of your mind, that this lunisolar calendar is the one ordained and established at creation. It was to this model that the holy appointed feast days were rendered. Please refer back to this illustration often as it is the foundation for the Creator's calendar principles. Click on image above to enlarge it.
The Sabbath as a "Sign" of Creation:
According to Scripture, the Creator prepared His calendar prior to creating Adam and Eve, by appointing the sun, moon and stars to rule (measure time) for signs (Sabbaths), seasons (months), days and years during the fourth day of creation. All they had to do was to look up into the starry heavens for the first visible crescent moon to commence the monthly count of dates and monthly count of weeks.
According to Scripture, the Creator prepared His calendar prior to creating Adam and Eve, by appointing the sun, moon and stars to rule (measure time) for signs (Sabbaths), seasons (months), days and years during the fourth day of creation. All they had to do was to look up into the starry heavens for the first visible crescent moon to commence the monthly count of dates and monthly count of weeks.
Then God said, "Let there be lights in the firmament of the heavens to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs and seasons, and for days and years . . . Genesis 1:14 NKJV
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At first glance above, it may appear that the "seasons" (mo-ade` #4150) reference only festival appointments, or congregational assemblies. However, notice in the Strong's Bible Dictionary and B-D-B, it is also identified as both a signal and an appointment in fixed time. So of what might it be a signal of, and what time might it be fixed to? Amazingly, both questions can be answered with one answer: the common denominator is lunar time as defined by the moon. This is verified in Psalms 104:19.
He appointed the moons for seasons (#4150 mo-ade`). . . Psalms 104:19
What becomes apparent from the Hebrew definitions above in connection with the Scripture verses below, is that the seventh-day Sabbath is indeed also a "sign." The implication of this is that the Sabbath, which punctuates the seven-day week of creation is, after all, reckoned by numbering from New Moon day, making it a lunar Sabbath. In contrast there is no mention in Genesis, or anywhere else in Scripture that the Sabbath is reckoned by an unbroken-cycle-of-weeks since creation, wholly disconnected from the Creator's principles that rule in the heavens (Genesis 1:14).
Notice it is the heavenly Father speaking. He is the one who preordained the Sabbath to be "a sign." Is it conceivable that the "signs" referred to in Genesis 1:14, and associated with days and years, may be eternally linked to "the week" ending with a "Sabbath?"
Notice it is the heavenly Father speaking. He is the one who preordained the Sabbath to be "a sign." Is it conceivable that the "signs" referred to in Genesis 1:14, and associated with days and years, may be eternally linked to "the week" ending with a "Sabbath?"
Moreover I also gave them My Sabbaths, to be a sign (#226 owth) between them and Me, that they might know that I am the Lord who sanctifies them. Yet the house of Israel rebelled against Me in the wilderness; they did not walk in My statutes; they despised my judgments, which, if a man does, he shall live by them; and they greatly defiled My Sabbaths. Ezekiel 20:12-13 NKJV
I am the Lord your God: Walk in My statutes, keep My judgments, and do them; hallow My Sabbaths, and they will be a sign (#226 owth) between Me and you, that you may know that I am the Lord your God. Ezekiel 20:19-20 NKJV
They also who dwell in the farthest parts are afraid of Your signs (#226 owth); you make the outgoings of the morning and evening rejoice. Psalms 65:88 NKJV
Your enemies roar in the midst of Your meeting place; they set up their banners (counterfeit wall calendars with continuous weekly cycles) for signs (#226 owth). Psalms 74:4
We do not see our signs (#226 owth); there is no longer any prophet; nor is there any among us who knows time (#5704 `ad).
Do not learn the way of the Gentiles; do not be dismayed at the signs (#226 owth), of heaven (#8064 shamayim - revolving celestial bodies) for the Gentiles are dismayed at them. For the customs of the peoples are futile . . . Jeremiah 10:2-3 NKJV
I am the Lord your God: Walk in My statutes, keep My judgments, and do them; hallow My Sabbaths, and they will be a sign (#226 owth) between Me and you, that you may know that I am the Lord your God. Ezekiel 20:19-20 NKJV
They also who dwell in the farthest parts are afraid of Your signs (#226 owth); you make the outgoings of the morning and evening rejoice. Psalms 65:88 NKJV
Your enemies roar in the midst of Your meeting place; they set up their banners (counterfeit wall calendars with continuous weekly cycles) for signs (#226 owth). Psalms 74:4
We do not see our signs (#226 owth); there is no longer any prophet; nor is there any among us who knows time (#5704 `ad).
Do not learn the way of the Gentiles; do not be dismayed at the signs (#226 owth), of heaven (#8064 shamayim - revolving celestial bodies) for the Gentiles are dismayed at them. For the customs of the peoples are futile . . . Jeremiah 10:2-3 NKJV
In the final analysis of Genesis 1:14, a more correct translation would read:
Then God said, "Let there be lights in the firmament of the heavens to divide the day from the night; and let them be for lunar Sabbaths and lunar months, and for days and lunisolar years . . . Genesis 1:14
Is it possible that in the heavenly Father's great wisdom, these terms were encoded on purpose and connected to clues that would later be found?
The New Moon and the Lunar Month:
All will agree that there has never been a day on earth that was disassociated from the sun, whether it was visible or not. The sun rises and sets with no apparent visible change marking one day as different from the next, just like a long string of pearls. But many are not aware that among the principles that rule in the heavens, it is the moon alone that defines each monthly calendar date, as both the terms "month" and "mo-ade'" (#4150) were derived from the word "moon." The sun defines when the day begins and ends, but the moon actually declares each day's "date" as counted or numbered from New Moon day. This is because the moon has two unique attributes that distinguish one day from another. These are its 29.5 lunar phases that occur each month in combination with its longitudinal position in the sky. These change daily with its waxing phases growing in light the first half of the month, and its waning phases diminishing in light for the second half.
The terms "New Moon" (# 2320) and "lunar month" (# 2320) are interchangeable, as both are intrinsically connected to the term "month," which is derived from the word "moon." The "crescent New Moon" refers to a specific phase of the moon or month, while the "lunar month" includes all 30 moon or month phases. These phases change daily in a pattern consistent with their longitudinal positions in the sky. The crescent New Moon is simply the first lunar phase that appears anew following the dark conjunction lunar phase that closes each month. The crescent New Moon is only seen on the horizon of the western sky at sunset. Once it is seen, the Shofar is blown, announcing the next daylight is New Moon day. Psalms 81:3.
In the Oxford English Dictionary clip below, the term "month" is defined as - "A measure of time corresponding to the period of revolution of the moon." Notice also, the similarity in spelling between the Genesis 1:14 word "mo-ade`" (#4150) and the variations of the word "month" through history in different languages. Who would have thought that this verse is actually defining all the creator's units of time, which in addition to "days and years," by default would include months (mo-ade` #4150) and their corresponding Sabbaths ('owth #226)? What might be the implications? It would imply that not only the days and the years are defined by the sun, moon and stars, but also the weeks, Sabbaths, and months. As a result, both months and Sabbaths would be determined and fixed to the moon, and numbered from New Moon day. Therefore all units of time would be consistently determined by the orchestration of sun, moon, and stars, and not according to a varying set of time measures as some suggest (Deuteronomy 25:13-15). But is there evidence of this?
The New Moon and the Lunar Month:
All will agree that there has never been a day on earth that was disassociated from the sun, whether it was visible or not. The sun rises and sets with no apparent visible change marking one day as different from the next, just like a long string of pearls. But many are not aware that among the principles that rule in the heavens, it is the moon alone that defines each monthly calendar date, as both the terms "month" and "mo-ade'" (#4150) were derived from the word "moon." The sun defines when the day begins and ends, but the moon actually declares each day's "date" as counted or numbered from New Moon day. This is because the moon has two unique attributes that distinguish one day from another. These are its 29.5 lunar phases that occur each month in combination with its longitudinal position in the sky. These change daily with its waxing phases growing in light the first half of the month, and its waning phases diminishing in light for the second half.
The terms "New Moon" (# 2320) and "lunar month" (# 2320) are interchangeable, as both are intrinsically connected to the term "month," which is derived from the word "moon." The "crescent New Moon" refers to a specific phase of the moon or month, while the "lunar month" includes all 30 moon or month phases. These phases change daily in a pattern consistent with their longitudinal positions in the sky. The crescent New Moon is simply the first lunar phase that appears anew following the dark conjunction lunar phase that closes each month. The crescent New Moon is only seen on the horizon of the western sky at sunset. Once it is seen, the Shofar is blown, announcing the next daylight is New Moon day. Psalms 81:3.
In the Oxford English Dictionary clip below, the term "month" is defined as - "A measure of time corresponding to the period of revolution of the moon." Notice also, the similarity in spelling between the Genesis 1:14 word "mo-ade`" (#4150) and the variations of the word "month" through history in different languages. Who would have thought that this verse is actually defining all the creator's units of time, which in addition to "days and years," by default would include months (mo-ade` #4150) and their corresponding Sabbaths ('owth #226)? What might be the implications? It would imply that not only the days and the years are defined by the sun, moon and stars, but also the weeks, Sabbaths, and months. As a result, both months and Sabbaths would be determined and fixed to the moon, and numbered from New Moon day. Therefore all units of time would be consistently determined by the orchestration of sun, moon, and stars, and not according to a varying set of time measures as some suggest (Deuteronomy 25:13-15). But is there evidence of this?
The term "New Moon" and "month" (chodesh #2320) are used interchangeably throughout Scripture. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon defines this same word correctly three ways: a) New Moon; b) the first day of the month; c) lunar month. While the term "Sabbath" is recorded approximately 150 times in Scripture, the term "New Moon" or "lunar month" is recorded nearly 300 times.
Comparing the two verses below it is discovered that there was more than twice the number of sacrifices to be performed by Israel on New Moon days than on seventh-day Sabbaths. This demonstrates the great value the Heavenly Father places upon His New Moon days.
Comparing the two verses below it is discovered that there was more than twice the number of sacrifices to be performed by Israel on New Moon days than on seventh-day Sabbaths. This demonstrates the great value the Heavenly Father places upon His New Moon days.
On the Sabbath day two lambs in their first year, without blemish, and two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour as a grain offering, mixed with oil, with its drink offering . . . Numbers 28:9 NKJV
At the beginnings of your [lunar #2320] months you shall present a burnt offering to the Yahuwah: two young bulls, one ram, and seven lambs in their first year, without blemish; 12 three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour as a grain offering, mixed with oil, for each bull . . . Numbers 28:11 NKJV
At the beginnings of your [lunar #2320] months you shall present a burnt offering to the Yahuwah: two young bulls, one ram, and seven lambs in their first year, without blemish; 12 three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour as a grain offering, mixed with oil, for each bull . . . Numbers 28:11 NKJV
Illustrated below is a current calendar of the Creator's lunisolar calendar corresponding to the Roman Gregorian calendar. Since the moon was preordained by the Creator for seasons (lunar months = #4150 mo-ade`), His lunar monthly dates are fixed to the count from the New Moon. Thus the New Moon is the standard upon which all dates are fixed according to Scripture (Exodus 12:1-3). Yahushua is the author of creation, Lucifer is the counterfeiter.
Two or Three Kinds of Days?
Ezekiel 46:1 defines with a "thus saith the Yahuwah" that He ordained three kinds of days which are named and have specific function. Notice below that the "east gate" of the temple, being open or closed for worship, actually defines that these days can never overlap. A day is either a work day or a worship day and never both. There is no guess work here. New Moon days will never fall on work days, just as Sabbaths can never fall on work days. Likewise, New Moon days can never be seventh-day Sabbaths, because the New Moon day must always be the first day of the month, as it only can be the day following the first visible crescent. Notice in the following verse, are the words of Yahuwah, Himself.
Click image to open
Two or Three Kinds of Days?
Ezekiel 46:1 defines with a "thus saith the Yahuwah" that He ordained three kinds of days which are named and have specific function. Notice below that the "east gate" of the temple, being open or closed for worship, actually defines that these days can never overlap. A day is either a work day or a worship day and never both. There is no guess work here. New Moon days will never fall on work days, just as Sabbaths can never fall on work days. Likewise, New Moon days can never be seventh-day Sabbaths, because the New Moon day must always be the first day of the month, as it only can be the day following the first visible crescent. Notice in the following verse, are the words of Yahuwah, Himself.
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When Constantine changed the "week" from eight-days to seven-days, he continued the use of its unique attribute of two kinds of days that cycled without end. Consequently, since Genesis 1 identified only two kinds of days, 1) work days and 2) Sabbaths, most of the world bought into His "continuous-weekly-cycle theory," as the two appeared to be in sync.
However, with diligent research, into Biblical time keeping, it becomes apparent that the Creator ordained three kinds of days in contrast to only two kinds of days. It is the "New Moon day" that is the third kind of day, which is not mentioned in the Genesis 1 account. Because there are only two kinds of days identified in Genesis 1, it was easy to believe Roman propaganda that her week, with its continuous weekly cycle, was in harmony with that of Creation. Yet this is the supreme deception. When the New Moon day, the third kind of day, is placed in position, the week cycle containing two kinds of days, is broken each and every month. Therefore, every date that is identified in Scripture, is consistently counted from the New Moon day, including the seventh-day Sabbaths, as their cycle starts and stops according to each month's refreshing by the New Moon. This "lost time principle," now restored, signals that all seventh-day Sabbaths occur consistently throughout the entire Bible, upon the 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th of each lunar month.
In contrast, if you look on your modern wall calendar you will find that the New Moon day falls consistently on work days nearly every month. This is a wake up call that the modern calendar used to define work days and Sabbaths, is an imposter, as it is contrary to the Holy Scriptures. By default your "wall calendar" has been telling you the seventh-day Sabbath is Saturday, when this is just another lie of Rome. We have all fallen into this pit of deception, which was prophesied in Revelation 13:3, "And all the world marveled and followed the beast." As S.D.A.'s we always thought this applied to the other churches, and not to us, as we kept the true Sabbath on Saturday. However, in believing this, we would be calling John the revelator a liar, as the verse definitively states, "ALL the world marveled and followed the beast."
Constantine and the Week:
The establishment of a counterfeit calendar is the first step necessary for counterfeit worship, both of which were crafted at the famous Council of Nicaea. Upon this premise "the repulsive and revolting" Biblical lunisolar calendar was replaced with the pagan solar calendar, as a tribute to their gods. The planetary continuous weekly cycle then replaced the Biblical week, which had always been fixed to the count from the New Moon.
In contrast, if you look on your modern wall calendar you will find that the New Moon day falls consistently on work days nearly every month. This is a wake up call that the modern calendar used to define work days and Sabbaths, is an imposter, as it is contrary to the Holy Scriptures. By default your "wall calendar" has been telling you the seventh-day Sabbath is Saturday, when this is just another lie of Rome. We have all fallen into this pit of deception, which was prophesied in Revelation 13:3, "And all the world marveled and followed the beast." As S.D.A.'s we always thought this applied to the other churches, and not to us, as we kept the true Sabbath on Saturday. However, in believing this, we would be calling John the revelator a liar, as the verse definitively states, "ALL the world marveled and followed the beast."
Constantine and the Week:
The establishment of a counterfeit calendar is the first step necessary for counterfeit worship, both of which were crafted at the famous Council of Nicaea. Upon this premise "the repulsive and revolting" Biblical lunisolar calendar was replaced with the pagan solar calendar, as a tribute to their gods. The planetary continuous weekly cycle then replaced the Biblical week, which had always been fixed to the count from the New Moon.
In 321 A.D., Constantine, emperor of Rome . . . by civil enactments made "the venerable day of the Sun," which day was then "notable for its veneration," the weekly rest day of the empire . . . The enforcement of the weekly observance of Sunday gave official recognition to the week of seven days and resulted in the introduction of it into the official civil calendar of Rome. The Romans passed that calendar down to us, and in it we have still the ancient planetary titles of the days of the week. Odom, op. cit., p. 243-244, emphasis supplied.
When the historical and time centric facts of the Julian calendar are comprehended, it becomes apparent that Sunday is not the only spurious worship day established upon paganism. Saturday, dies Saturni, is also a counterfeit and spurious worship day. The mere fact it is the seventh-day of the modern Roman week, sets it in opposition to the true lunar seventh-day Sabbath of the Bible. Both days are fruit of a false, man-made calendar system that is built upon the premise of only two kinds of days. Therefore, neither Saturday nor Sunday can be the true Bible Sabbath.
So now let me ask you - is there evidence that the unbroken chains of weeks was fabricated by man and not ordained by the Creator? Yes.
We have all been taught to believe that the Council of Laodicea, Canon 29 stated:
So now let me ask you - is there evidence that the unbroken chains of weeks was fabricated by man and not ordained by the Creator? Yes.
We have all been taught to believe that the Council of Laodicea, Canon 29 stated:
Christians shall not Judaize and be idle on Saturday, but shall work on that day; but the Lord's Day they shall especially honor, and, as being Christians, shall, if possible, do no work on that day. If however, they are found Judaizing, they shall be shut out from Christ.
According to Karl J. von Hefele, a Catholic bishop, in his History of the Councils of the Church from the Original Documents, states that the word "Saturday" (dies Saturni) does not exist either in the Greek or Latin text. Rather, the word "Saturday" was supplied in the English translation in place of the word Sabbato, meaning Sabbath.
Quod non oportet Christianos Judaizere et otiare in Sabbato, sed operari in eodem die. Preferentes autem in veneratione Dominicum Diem si vacre voluerint, ut Christiani hoc faciat; quod si reperti fuerint Judaizere Anathema sint a Christo.
At the time the Julian calendar was being enforced upon Christians for religious purposes, no one confused the word Sabbato with dies Saturni. Simply everyone at that time recognized these to be unique names for two separate days, as found on two distinctly different calendar systems. It is only as the facts of history have been forgotten, that Saturday has been assumed to be the seventh-day Sabbath of Scripture.
These . . . eventually led Jewish rabbis to call Saturn Shabbti, 'the star of the Sabbath.' It was not until the first century of our era, when the planetary week had become an established institution, that the Jewish Sabbath seems always to have corresponded to Saturn's Day [Saturday]. Rest Days, p.244 by Hutton Webster
This planetary week was paganism's counterfeit of the true, Biblical week instituted by the Creator in the beginning of earth's history. In the counterfeit week employed in ancient paganism "the venerable day of the Sun" was esteemed by the heathen above the other six days because it was regarded as sacred to the Sun, the chief of the planetary deities . . . Just as the true Sabbath is inseparably linked with the Biblical week, so the false Sabbath of pagan origin needed a weekly cycle. Thus we have found that the planetary week of paganism is Sunday's twin sister, and that the two counterfeit institutions were linked together ... Odom, op. cit., p. 243-244, emphasis supplied.
This planetary week was paganism's counterfeit of the true, Biblical week instituted by the Creator in the beginning of earth's history. In the counterfeit week employed in ancient paganism "the venerable day of the Sun" was esteemed by the heathen above the other six days because it was regarded as sacred to the Sun, the chief of the planetary deities . . . Just as the true Sabbath is inseparably linked with the Biblical week, so the false Sabbath of pagan origin needed a weekly cycle. Thus we have found that the planetary week of paganism is Sunday's twin sister, and that the two counterfeit institutions were linked together ... Odom, op. cit., p. 243-244, emphasis supplied.
Angel Rodriguez is simply a victim of Roman propaganda, as we all have been. As a result he continues to cling to a pagan "Saturday" Sabbath theory that cannot be supported from Scripture, either by name or by its rhythm. This is why in his opening statement it is imperative that he cause his audience to "throw out of his court of law any Biblical evidence." As it continues to be demonstrated, Scripture is the revealer of the lunar Sabbath truth.
What about Ellen White?
So, one must ask, was Ellen White deceived, as she clearly believed and declared the seventh-day to be "Saturday?" Just as with the prophets Daniel and John the revelator and so many others, Yahushua has spoken through His servants in the onward progression of furthering His truths, He has spoken through Ellen White. Each has brought advancing light to the table in His perfect timing revealing key components of His appointed times and true Sabbaths. Just as Daniel and John were not given all the light of truth in their day, neither was Ellen White. Each had their prophetic role to play to prepare the faithful for the last great and final conflict. Ellen White simply was not given all the light for the remnant.
Ellen White was not given inspiration on the subject of Yahuwah's preordained units of time. She had a "thus saith the Lord" that the Seventh-day is the Sabbath, a most important first step in restoring the Creator's true Sabbath. However, she was never given a "thus saith the Lord" that "Saturday" is the seventh-day Sabbath. These two concepts are light years apart. Remember the assumptions of the ancient Hebrew people in regards to the Messiah. They assumed that the Messiah would come as a King in splendor and majesty and deliver them from their enemies. While it is true that Christ will one day be crowned as a King and deliver His people, it was to be the fourth phase, rather than the first phase of the Saviors four-fold ministry.
Taking all things into consideration, is it possible that the heavenly Father can give new light on a subject as only the first step toward a full disclosure, and still have it accomplish His timely purposes? Yes it is. As a result, an entire church organization sprang up over the new light of the seventh-day Sabbath, fully assuming it to be Saturday. This first step regarding the seventh-day being the Sabbath was indeed a huge revelation for its appointed time. This most assuredly accomplished a grand purpose for the reformation, as it highlighted and brought to bear that the Creator's holy day was indeed the seventh and not the first day of the week.
It is Ellen White herself that declared she was not shown all the truth. What this means is that she herself maintained and taught that "all light" was not revealed to her. This in no way diminishes her prophetic gift. In contrast, if she had stated that all things were revealed to her and that all her writings were without error, then this discovery of the Biblical lunar Sabbath would expose her as a false prophet. But this is NOT the case! There are numerous statements that she makes under inspiration where she does not even recognize that they do not support her erroneous calendar beliefs.
What about Ellen White?
So, one must ask, was Ellen White deceived, as she clearly believed and declared the seventh-day to be "Saturday?" Just as with the prophets Daniel and John the revelator and so many others, Yahushua has spoken through His servants in the onward progression of furthering His truths, He has spoken through Ellen White. Each has brought advancing light to the table in His perfect timing revealing key components of His appointed times and true Sabbaths. Just as Daniel and John were not given all the light of truth in their day, neither was Ellen White. Each had their prophetic role to play to prepare the faithful for the last great and final conflict. Ellen White simply was not given all the light for the remnant.
Ellen White was not given inspiration on the subject of Yahuwah's preordained units of time. She had a "thus saith the Lord" that the Seventh-day is the Sabbath, a most important first step in restoring the Creator's true Sabbath. However, she was never given a "thus saith the Lord" that "Saturday" is the seventh-day Sabbath. These two concepts are light years apart. Remember the assumptions of the ancient Hebrew people in regards to the Messiah. They assumed that the Messiah would come as a King in splendor and majesty and deliver them from their enemies. While it is true that Christ will one day be crowned as a King and deliver His people, it was to be the fourth phase, rather than the first phase of the Saviors four-fold ministry.
Taking all things into consideration, is it possible that the heavenly Father can give new light on a subject as only the first step toward a full disclosure, and still have it accomplish His timely purposes? Yes it is. As a result, an entire church organization sprang up over the new light of the seventh-day Sabbath, fully assuming it to be Saturday. This first step regarding the seventh-day being the Sabbath was indeed a huge revelation for its appointed time. This most assuredly accomplished a grand purpose for the reformation, as it highlighted and brought to bear that the Creator's holy day was indeed the seventh and not the first day of the week.
It is Ellen White herself that declared she was not shown all the truth. What this means is that she herself maintained and taught that "all light" was not revealed to her. This in no way diminishes her prophetic gift. In contrast, if she had stated that all things were revealed to her and that all her writings were without error, then this discovery of the Biblical lunar Sabbath would expose her as a false prophet. But this is NOT the case! There are numerous statements that she makes under inspiration where she does not even recognize that they do not support her erroneous calendar beliefs.
Those who live up to all the light they have will be given greater light. Light and grace will be given to those who thus obey God. They will behold wondrous things out of His law. Great truths that have lain unheeded and unseen since the day of Pentecost, are to shine from God's word in their native purity. Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 473.
"As we gather up the divine rays shining from the gospel, we shall have a clearer insight into the Jewish economy, and a deeper appreciation of its important truths. Our exploration of truth is yet incomplete. We have gathered up only a few rays of light. Those who are not daily students of the Word will not solve the problems of the Jewish economy. They will not understand the truths taught by the temple service." Spalding Magan Collection, p. 306 (Ellen White).
"As we gather up the divine rays shining from the gospel, we shall have a clearer insight into the Jewish economy, and a deeper appreciation of its important truths. Our exploration of truth is yet incomplete. We have gathered up only a few rays of light. Those who are not daily students of the Word will not solve the problems of the Jewish economy. They will not understand the truths taught by the temple service." Spalding Magan Collection, p. 306 (Ellen White).
The term "Jewish economy" references three things. The first things we think of are time and money. Yet, it also includes the laws of Yahuwah, with each part played out in the visual aide of the Sanctuary service. All three parts of this detailed economy define the divinely preordained system of "trade" for the redemption and restoration of mankind. A plan developed in the heavenly courts whereby the Creator himself would "trade" His perfect eternal life, as a ransom for the souls of men. All who confess with penitent hearts to Yahushua (Jesus), their High Priest, and walk in obedience to a new life, freely receive the benefits of this unequal "trade." They are then transformed into His image, and given passage to an eternal reward with the saints.
The entire Sanctuary system was based upon the pattern shown on the mount, which contained the principles of the heavenly lunisolar time-system. The truths taught by the time-centric earthly temple service give us insight into Yahushua's continued multi-part ministry in the heavenly Sanctuary for the restoration of sinners back to their full and divine purpose. In stating that "truth is yet incomplete," it means that Ellen White and all the S.D.A.'s in her day, were to continue forward in the steps of reform. In stating that they had "gathered up only a few rays of light," defines that the majority of light was yet, and is yet, to be revealed. To remain stagnant upon the truths of the 1800's is to remain seated in the first step to a full disclosure, when the Spirit of truth beckons His faithful to rise and walk in the fullness of light and glory of new revelations.
The entire Sanctuary system was based upon the pattern shown on the mount, which contained the principles of the heavenly lunisolar time-system. The truths taught by the time-centric earthly temple service give us insight into Yahushua's continued multi-part ministry in the heavenly Sanctuary for the restoration of sinners back to their full and divine purpose. In stating that "truth is yet incomplete," it means that Ellen White and all the S.D.A.'s in her day, were to continue forward in the steps of reform. In stating that they had "gathered up only a few rays of light," defines that the majority of light was yet, and is yet, to be revealed. To remain stagnant upon the truths of the 1800's is to remain seated in the first step to a full disclosure, when the Spirit of truth beckons His faithful to rise and walk in the fullness of light and glory of new revelations.
Refer to article, "Sabbath's Consistent Monthly Dates."
The Evidence:
- All of the Creator’s principles of time are defined according to the sun, moon and stars. Genesis 1:14, Ezekiel 46:1
- Sabbaths = signs (#226 ‘owth). Ezekiel 20:12-13, Ezekiel 20:19-20
- Months (monad) = seasons (#4150 mo-ade`). Genesis 1:14
- The Creator’s months are lunar according to Strong's Concordance, Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon and Exodus 12:1-3.
- There are three kinds of days, not just two. It is the New Moon day that breaks the cycle of weeks each month. Ezekiel 46:1
- The Creator’s calendar dates are counted from the New Moon. Exodus. 12:1-3; Leviticus 23:5-39, Ezekiel 46:1, 1 Chronicles 23:30-32
- The Creator’s Sabbaths are counted from the New Moon. Exodus 12:1-3; Leviticus 23:5-39, Ezekiel 46:1, 1 Chronicles 23:30-32
- The Creator’s lunisolar calendar contains four seven day weeks each month. Exodus. 12:1-3, Leviticus 23:5-39, Ezekiel. 46:1, 1 Chronicles 23:30-32
- Ellen White states, “Our exploration of truth is yet incomplete.”
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May Yahuwah continue to bless you as you diligently seek Him.
Kerrie L. French
Freelance writer/Illustrator