Beloved of the Lord;
Remember: "Beware lest any man spoil-συλαγωγῶν (sulagogon)-to lead off as plunder, (literally: carry off (as) booty or captive; rob; figuratively: of victimizing or brainwashing someone with religious error or false teaching) you through-διὰ (dia)-through, by means of) philosophy-φιλοσοφίας (philosophias)-love of wisdom) and vain-κενῆς (kenes)-vain, empty) deceit-ἀπάτης (apates)-deceit, deceitfulness), after-κατὰ (kata)-according to) the tradition-παράδοσιν (paradosin)-a giving over, handing down) of men, after the rudiments-στοιχεῖα (stoicheia)-an element, first step or principle) of the world, and not after Christ." -(Colossians 2:8)
1. Roman Catholic Church
The
Roman Catholic Church Part. 1
Catholics,
To my Roman Catholics,
We wrestle not against you.
But rather;
We oppose
The Traditions & Doctrines
of the
Roman Catholic Church.
1
MENU
2
3
4
*For accurate results,
adjust your Zoom (+ -)
"KNEW"
The topic of Mary, the mother of Jesus, tends to be a controversial subject among Catholics and Christians. Most, if not, all Catholics believe that Mary remained a virgin after the birth of Jesus. Please review and verify the following information carefully.
Let's begin by analyzing the following three verses:
Genesis 4:1
And Adam H3045-knew-יָדַע (yā-ḏa‘)-to know, (i.e. know a person carnally, of sexual intercourse) Eve his wife, and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said, I have gotten a man from the LORD.
The Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Number for: יָדַע : (knew) is H3045 יָדַע (yā-ḏa‘) -from the root word; to know. Now, based on the Context of this verse, the word: knew-H3045 implies sexual activity. This can be understood by the words: "and she conceived, and bare Cain".
Here is a list of other valid definitions for H3045-to know:
1. to know
a. (Qal)
1. to know
b. to know, learn to know
c. to perceive
d. to perceive and see, find out and discern
e. to discriminate, distinguish
f. to know by experience
g. to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess
h. to consider
1. to know, be acquainted with
2. to know (a person carnally)
3. to know how, be skilful in
4. to have knowledge, be wise
i. (Niphal)
1. to be made known, be or become known, be revealed
2. to make oneself known
3. to be perceived
4. to be instructed
j. (Piel) to cause to know
k. (Poal) to cause to know
l. (Pual)
1. to be known
2. known, one known, acquaintance (participle)
m. (Hiphil) to make known, declare
n. (Hophal) to be made known
o. (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself
Next verse:
Genesis 4:17
And Cain H3045-knew-וַיֵּ֤דַע (way-yê-ḏa‘)-to know, (i.e. know a person carnally, of sexual intercourse) his wife, and she conceived and bare Enoch, and he builded a City, after the name of his son, Enoch.
The same contextual format as Genesis 4:1
Genesis 4:25
And Adam H3045-knew-וַיֵּדַע (way-yê-ḏa‘)-to know, (i.e. know a person carnally, of sexual intercourse) his wife again, and she bare a son, and called his name Seth: For God, said she, hath appointed me another seed instead of Abel, whom Cain slew.
All three verses: Genesis 4:1, Genesis 4:17, and Genesis 4:25 use H3045-to know. All three verses share the same definition for the word (knew); to know- a person carnally, of sexual intercourse). In all three verses, the context of the verse implies that there was sexual activity, conception, and birth.
Let's examine the following verses.
Luke 1:30-34
30And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.34 Then said Mary unto the Angel, How shall this be, seeing G1097-I know-γινώσκω (ginosko)-to know, (i.e. intimacy with) not-οὐ (ou)-no, not (the absolute negative)) a man?
The Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Number for the Greek word: γινώσκω: (I know) is G1097. The Morphology / Parsing of γινώσκω is: Tense: Present, Voice: active, Mood: Indicative, Person: first. OR, "Then said Mary unto the Angel, How shall this be, seeing ["I-AM-KNOWING"] not a man?". Mary is affirming that she is a virgin, not yet (knowing-present / Active) a man.
It is important to understand that The Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Number G1097 has various definitions. Below is a list of some definitions for G1097-to know:
-
to learn to know, come to know, get a knowledge of perceive, feel
-
to become known
-
to know, understand, perceive, have knowledge of
-
to understand
-
to know
-
(Jewish idiom for sexual intercourse between a man and a woman)
-
to become acquainted with
-
I come to know, learn, realize
-
I am taking in knowledge, come to know, learn; aor: I ascertained, realized.
-
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications
"TILL"
"Now,
one of the most controversial verses
of the bible
regarding the Virginity of Mary:"
Matthew 1:24-25
24.Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:
25 And G1097-knew-ἐγίνωσκεν (eginosken)-to know, (i.e. intimacy with) her not, G2193-till-ἕως (héōs)-until, till (the time when)) she had brought forth her firstborn son, and he called his name Jesus.
1st) The Strong's Greek Lexicon Number for knew in this verse is: G1097, same as in Luke 1:34: (". . .seeing G1097-I know-γινώσκω (ginosko)-to know, (i.e. intimacy with) not a man?). Now, Based on the context of this verse, Joseph did not have sexual relationship with Mary, till...
Now, for anyone that places the emphasis on the word G2193-till-ἕως-(héōs)-CONjunction), and insist that this word implies "up until", meaning, that Joseph refrained from having sexual relationship with Mary "during" her pregnancy, which is true, but also "after" giving birth (because according to the Catholic believer, it is unknown, or simply deny that Joseph had sexual relationship with Mary after she gave birth). However, Catholics do error by confusing or replacing the word: G2193-till-ἕως-(héōs)-CONjunction) for: G891-until-ἄχρι-(achri)-PREposition) or G2193-until-ἕως-(héōs)-PREposition). I believe the following verse is a perfect illustration of how the word (G2193-till-ἕως-(héōs)-CONjunction)) is properly defined.
Matthew 24:34
"Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, G2193-till-ἕως (héōs)-until, till (the time when)) all these things be fulfilled."
OR,
event#1 [This generation shall not pass] till-ἕως (héōs)-until, till (the time when) event#2 [all these things be fulfilled]. Note: even the verse ends with the word "fulfilled".
Here is another example:
Matthew 23:39
“For I say unto you, [Ye shall not see me henceforth], G2193-till-ἕως (héōs)-until, till (the time when)) [ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the Name of the Lord.]”
Likewise...
Matthew 1:25
And knew her not, G2193-till-ἕως (héōs)-until, till (the time when)) she had brought forth her firstborn son, and he called his name Jesus.
OR,
event#1 [And knew her not,] till-ἕως (héōs)-until, till (the time when) event#2 [she had brought forth her firstborn son, and he called his name Jesus.] be fulfilled.
The Strong's Greek Lexicon Number for the word (till) in the above two verses (Matthew 24:34 & Matthew 1:25) is: G2193-ἕως-(héōs)-CONjunction).
definition of a CONJunction:
part of speech; Conjunction or conjunctive particle; A word used to connect clauses or sentences or to coordinate words in the same clause.
Now, if we take a closer look at the next three verses (Luke 17:27 & Luke 1:20 & Romans 8:22), we can distinguish the difference between G2193-till-ἕως-(héōs)-CONJuction) from G891-until-ἄχρι-(achri)-PREposition):
definition of: G891-ἄχρι-(achri)-PREposition:
happening or done up to a particular point in time, and then stopping; as far as, up to, unto, until.
Example #1:
They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, G891-until-ἄχρι-(achri)-PREposition: until, as far as, up to) the day that Noah entered into the ark: and the flood came, and destroyed them all.
did you notice the stoppage (until), meaning; drinking, eating, marrying, and giving in marriage continued up until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all.
Example #2:
Luke 1:20
“And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, G891-until-ἄχρι (achri)-PREposition: until, as far as, up to) the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.”
-
cross reference: Luke 1:64
Example #3:
Romans 8:22
“For we know that //the whole creation (Or, every creature) groaneth, and travaileth in pain together G891-until-ἄχρι (achri)-PREposition: until, as far as, up to) now.”
Now, IF Matthew 1:25 had read as following:
Matthew 1:25
25 And knew her not G891-until-ἄχρι (achri)-PREposition: as far as, up to) she had brought forth her firstborn son, and he called his name Jesus.
. . . then we may rightfully conclude that Joseph knew not Mary during her pregnancy, AND ALSO that there is no say as to whether he did AFTER the birth of Jesus, because the word G2193 until-ἄχρι (achri)-PREposition) would imply: "as far as, up to" her delivery only. But this is not the case, because the translators for the King James Bible accurately translated the Greek word G2193-ἕως-(héōs) as: till; a CONJuction, instead of the word until-G891-ἄχρι-(achri)-PREposition) or, until-G2193-ἕως-(héōs) PREposition).
"FIRSTBORN"
MARY
And finally,
I would to bring to your attention one more key word; "firstborn."
There are 3 ways to identify a born child:
1) firstborn, 2) only son/child, 3) only begotten.
In the following verses, we will understand the differences between these 3 words.
"firstborn" In The Old Testament
1 Chronicles 26:4
4 Moreover the sons of Obededom were, Shemaiah the firstborn-הַבְּכוֹר (hab-bə-ḵō-wr)-firstborn, firstling, first-born; hence, chief:—eldest (son), firstborn(-ling)), Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth.
Notice that Shemaiah has more siblings; Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth.
Genesis 19:31
31 And the firstborn-הַבְּכִירָה (hab-bə-ḵî-rāh)-firstborn daughter, firstborn (of women), the eldest daughter:—firstborn) said unto the younger, Our father is old, and there is not a man in the earth to come in unto us after the manner of all the earth:
Again, the firstborn has a sibling; the younger.
Genesis 22:20-21
20 “And it came to pass after these things, that it was told Abraham, saying, Behold, Milcah, she hath also born children unto thy brother Nahor; 21 Huz his firstborn-בְּכוֹר (bə-ḵō-rōw)-firstborn, firstling, first-born; hence, chief:—eldest (son), firstborn(-ling)), and Buz his brother, and Kemuel the father of Aram,
Milcah bore children-(plural), and the name of the firstborn was Huz.
Genesis 25:13
13 And these are the names of the sons of Ishmael, by their names, according to their generations: the firstborn-בְּכֹ֤ר (bə-ḵōr)-firstborn, firstling, first-born; hence, chief:—eldest (son), firstborn(-ling)) of Ishmael, Nebajoth; and Kedar, and Adbeel, and Mibsam,
Ishmael had four sons. Nebajoth was the firstborn.
Genesis 25:24-26
24 “And when her days to be delivered were fulfilled, behold, there were twins in her womb.
25 And the first-הָרִאשׁוֹן֙ (hā-ri-šō-wn)-first, primary, (i.e. in time, former of two)) came out red, all over like an hairy garment; and they called his name Esau.
26 And after that came his brother out, and his hand took hold on Esau's heel; and his name was called Jacob: and Isaac was threescore years old when she bare them.”
And even when twins are born, the first to come out is called the first.
More examples: Genesis 10:15 // 1 King 16:34 // 1 Chronicles 2:13 // 1 Chronicles 2:42 // 1 Chronicles 8:1 // 1 Chronicles 8:39, Et cetera.
"firstborn" In The New Testament
Romans 8:29
“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the G4416-firstborn-πρωτότοκον (prototokon)-the firstborn, firstbegotten(-born) among many brethren.”
In this verse, Paul is exalting the Son of God. Paul continues by saying that he-(Jesus) might be the firstborn from the dead among many-(plural) brethren-(plural). Jesus Christ was resurrected from the dead, thus becoming the firstborn. And when the Lord Jesus returns from heaven with power and glory, he will resurrect many brethren.
Colossians 1:18
“And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, G4416-the firstborn-πρωτότοκος (prototokos)-first born, firstbegotten(-born)) from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.”
The word (dead) is in the plural:—(Inflection: Adjective, Genitive, Plural, Masculine), OR, "...the firstborn-πρωτότοκος (prototokos)-first born, firstbegotten(-born)) from-ἐκ (ek)-out of, from out of) the ["dead-ones"]..."
Did you notice that the word
"firstborn" is defined as being the first among others.
**Other verses that also use G4416:
[Hebrews 12:23-πρωτοτόκων-"of the firstborn")] // [Hebrews 11:28-πρωτότοκα-"firstborn")] // [Colossians 1:15-πρωτότοκος-"the firstborn")] // [Luke 2:7.-πρωτότοκον-"firstborn")] // [Colossians 1:15-πρωτότοκος-"the firstborn")] // [Hebrews 1:6-πρωτότοκον-"firstbegotten")] // [Revelation 1:5-(πρωτότοκος-"first begotten").
Next,
lets look at the word
"only son/child".
"only son/child" In The Old Testament
Genesis 22:2
And he said, Take now thy son, thine only-יְחִֽידְךָ (yə-ḥî-ḏə-ḵā)-singly, lonely, only, only (child, son), solitary (i.e. sole)) son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.
Genesis 22:12
And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only-יְחִֽידְךָ (yə-ḥî-ḏə-ḵā)-singly, lonely, only, only (child, son), solitary (i.e. sole)) son from me.
In these two verses (Genesis 22:2 & Genesis 22:12), Abram, was told to sacrifice his "only son", Issac. Remember, Issac was the son of Sarai, Abrams wife. Issac was the promised son to Abram that was foretold by the LORD. Unlike Ishmael, who was begotten by the Egyptian maid; Hagar.
Jeremiah 6:26
26 "O daughter of my people, gird thee with sackcloth, and wallow thyself in ashes: make thee mourning, as for an only son-יָחִיד (yā-ḥîḏ)-singly, lonely, only, only (child, son), solitary (i.e. sole)), most bitter lamentation: for the spoiler shall suddenly come upon us."
"only son/child" In The New Testament
Luke: 7:12
12 "Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, G3439-the only-μονογενὴς (monogenes)-only-born, i.e. sole:—only (begotten, child)) son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her."
Again, notice it says: "the only son", and not: "firstborn". And mind you, this woman had no other children (the only-μονογενὴς (monogenes)-only-born, i.e. sole:—only (begotten, child)) son). This woman is also a widow; with no husband. And although we do not know the full circumstances of her life, one thing is true, she only begot one child.
Luke 9:38
38 "And, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son: for he is mine G3439-only child-μονογενὴς (monogenes)-only-born, i.e. sole:—only (begotten, child))."
Again, this man referred to his son as his "only child", not: his "firstborn". That means, that this man had no other sons or daughters.
John 1:18
“No man hath seen God at any time; the G3439-only begotten-μονογενὴς (monogenes)-only-born, i.e. sole:—only (begotten, child)) Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.”
This verse is about the Son of God. Jesus is the only begotten Son of God; the saviour of mankind. The word only is re-enforced with the word begotten. All three verses (Luke: 7:12 // Luke 9:38 // John 1:18) use the same Greek word G3439-μονογενὴς-(monogenes). Both, the Textus Receptus (Received Text) and the Alexandrian Text-type Greek Texts agree with the use of the word μονογενὴς for: Luke: 7:12 // Luke 9:38 // John 1:18.
Lastly,
lets look at the word "only begotten". It interesting to know that these words are only found in the New testament, and identify Jesus as the "only begotten" son of God; and not of Mary. And in one instance, it is used for Issac; Abraham's only son.
"only begotten" In The New Testament
John 1:14
"And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten-μονογενοῦς (monogenous)-only-born, i.e. sole:—only (begotten, child)) of the Father, full of grace and truth."
John 1:18
"No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten-μονογενὴς (monogenes)-only-born, i.e. sole:—only (begotten, child)) Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him."
John 3:16
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten-μονογενῆ (monogene)-only-born, i.e. sole:—only (begotten, child)) Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
In the above three verses (John 1:14 // John 1:18 // John 3:16), the "only begotten son" is Jesus.
1 John 4:9
"In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten-μονογενῆ (monogene)- only-born, chief, single of its kind, only) Son into the world, that we might live through him."
Hebrews 11:17
"By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten-μονογενῆ (monogene)-only-born, i.e. sole:—only (begotten, child)) son,"
Abraham's offering, was a "type" and "foreshadowing" of what would eventually be, that is, Jesus, the sacrifice for the sins of the world. Issac too was the only begotten son of Abraham and Sarah. Jesus was made a sacrifice for our sins, and Issac too, would had become a sacrifice, but the LORD forbade Abraham from plunging the knife into Issac. You see, God wanted us to understand what true love is. That in the fullness of time, the Son of God would become a sacrifice for the sins of all the world. It is to no surprise that the word love is first mentioned in (Genesis 22:2).
Now that you understand the differences between
"firstborn", "only son/child", and "only begotten son",
let's revisit Matthew 1:25 again.
Matthew 1:25
25 "And knew her not, till she had brought forth her G4416-firstborn-πρωτότοκον (prototokon)-the firstborn, firstbegotten(-born) son, and he called his name Jesus."
The same Greek word-(G4416-πρωτότοκον (prototokon) that is used for Matthew 1:25, is also used in: Luke 2:7 & Romans 8:29.
New Testament Greek Text
for Matthew 1:25
from the Byzantine text-type:
Greek Text:
Stephanus Textus Receptus 1550
καὶ (and) οὐκ (not) ἐγίνωσκεν (knew-her) αὐτὴν (she) ἕως (till) οὗ (had) ἔτεκεν (she-brought-forth) τὸν (the) υἱὸν (son) αὐτῆς (of-her) τὸν (the) πρωτότοκον (firstborn)· καὶ (and) ἐκάλεσεν (he-called) τὸ (the) ὄνομα (name) αὐτοῦ (of-him) Ἰησοῦν (Jesus)
Beza Textus Receptus 1598
καὶ (and) οὐκ (not) ἐγίνωσκεν (knew-her) αὐτὴν (she) ἕως (till) οὗ (had) ἔτεκεν (she-brought-forth) τὸν (the) υἱὸν (son) αὐτῆς (of-her) τὸν (the) πρωτότοκον (firstborn)· καὶ (and) ἐκάλεσεν (he-called) τὸ (the) ὄνομα (name) αὐτοῦ (of-him) ἸΗΣΟ῀ΥΝ (JESUS).
**other Greek Text: Scrivener's Textus Receptus 1894 - (πρωτότοκον (firstborn)
from the Alexandrian text-type:
Greek Text:
Nestle Greek New Testament 1904
καὶ οὐκ ἐγίνωσκεν αὐτὴν ἕως οὗ ἔτεκεν υἱόν·[missing] καὶ ἐκάλεσεν τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ Ἰησοῦν.
Westcott and Hort 1881
καὶ οὐκ ἐγίνωσκεν αὐτὴν ἕως οὗ ἔτεκεν υἱόν·[missing] καὶ ἐκάλεσεν τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ Ἰησοῦν.
Tischendorf 8th Edition 1872
καὶ οὐκ ἐγίνωσκεν αὐτὴν ἕως οὗ ἔτεκεν υἱόν·[missing] καὶ ἐκάλεσεν τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ Ἰησοῦν.
BEWARE: Modern Bibles such as the NIV, NASB, ESV and others, are based of the Alexandrian text-type, which omit: [αὐτῆς τὸν πρωτότοκον], OR, [αὐτῆς-(of-her) τὸν-(the) πρωτότοκον-(firstborn)], OR, ["her firstborn"]. Compare:
-
"...she gave birth to [ ] a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.-NIV
-
"...she had given birth to [ ] a son. And he called his name Jesus.-ESV
-
"...she gave birth to [ ] a Son; and he named Him Jesus.- NASB
The above translations place the emphasis on: "...she gave birth to (a male child), rather than "her firstborn Sonne". Ironically, the Douay-Rheims Bible (1582); a Catholic Bible!, correctly does say: "And he knew her not til she brought forth her first borne Sonne: & called his name IESVS.".
Lo!
Luke 2:7 confirms it again. -KJV
“And she brought forth her firstborn-πρωτότοκον (prototokon)-the firstborn, firstbegotten(-born) son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”
Mary delivers her firstborn son; Jesus. The same Greek word (πρωτότοκον (prototokon) that is used in Luke 2:7, is also used in in Matthew 1:25.
New Testament Greek Text
for Luke 2:7
from the Byzantine text-type:
Greek Text:
Textus Receptus (Beza 1598)
Καὶ ἔτεκε τὸν υἱὸν αὐτῆς τὸν πρωτότοκον (firstborn), καὶ ἐσπαργάνωσεν αὐτὸν, καὶ ἀνέκλινεν αὐτὸν ἐν φάτνῃ· διότι οὐκ ἦν αὐτοῖς τόπος ἐν τῷ καταλύματι.
Textus Receptus (Stephanus 1550)
καὶ ἔτεκεν τὸν υἱὸν αὐτῆς τὸν πρωτότοκον (firstborn) καὶ ἐσπαργάνωσεν αὐτὸν καὶ ἀνέκλινεν αὐτὸν ἐν τῇ φάτνῃ διότι οὐκ ἦν αὐτοῖς τόπος ἐν τῷ καταλύματι
*other Greek text: Scrivener's Textus Receptus 1894 - (πρωτότοκον (firstborn)
from the Alexandrian text-type:
Greek Text:
Nestle Greek New Testament 1904
καὶ ἔτεκεν τὸν υἱὸν αὐτῆς τὸν πρωτότοκον (firstborn), καὶ ἐσπαργάνωσεν αὐτὸν καὶ ἀνέκλινεν αὐτὸν ἐν φάτνῃ, διότι οὐκ ἦν αὐτοῖς τόπος ἐν τῷ καταλύματι.
Westcott and Hort 1881
καὶ ἔτεκεν τὸν υἱὸν αὐτῆς τὸν πρωτότοκον (firstborn), καὶ ἐσπαργάνωσεν αὐτὸν καὶ ἀνέκλινεν αὐτὸν ἐν φάτνῃ, διότι οὐκ ἦν αὐτοῖς τόπος ἐν τῷ καταλύματι.
Tischendorf 8th Edition 1872
καὶ ἔτεκεν τὸν υἱὸν αὐτῆς τὸν πρωτότοκον (firstborn), καὶ ἐσπαργάνωσεν αὐτὸν καὶ ἀνέκλινεν αὐτὸν ἐν φάτνῃ, διότι οὐκ ἦν αὐτοῖς τόπος ἐν τῷ καταλύματι.
Both, the Greek texts out of the Byzantine text-type and the Alexandrian text-type agree for Luke 2:7. The same can be said for Bibles that rely on the Alexandrian text-type. compare:
-
and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son..."-NIV
-
She gave birth to her firstborn son...."-NLT
-
And she gave birth to her firstborn son..."-ESV
-
And she gave birth to her firstborn son;..."-NASB
Even the Douay-Rheims (1582) Catholic Bible reads: "And she brought forth her first begotten Sonne, and swadled him in clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was not place for them in the inne."
So then,
Had Jesus Christ been the only child of Mary, then Matthew 1:25 or Luke 2:7 would had said: "her only son", or " her only child", or "her only begotten son".
OR, something like this:
Matthew 1:25
"And knew her not until she had brought forth her only begotten son: and he called his name Jesus."
Luke 2:7
“And she brought forth her only son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.”
Behold!,
Matthew 1:25
25 "And knew her not, till she had brought forth her firstborn son, and he called his name Jesus." -(AV 1611)
-
knew-ἐγίνωσκεν (eginosken)-to know, (i.e. intimacy with)
-
till-ἕως (héōs)-until, till (the time when):—CONjunction
-
firstborn-πρωτότοκον (prototokon)-the firstborn, firstbegotten(-born).
Note: pay close attention to the punctuation. There is a comma after the word (not,). It can be misleading if the comma (,) is removed. Unfortunately, other King James Bibles, have removed this comma.
In Conclusion
Friends, I have given you (not I, but the wisdom of the Lord) three key points out of one verse. I am a strong believer that scripture interprets itself. I have selected the above verses because all of them have something in common; the Context. I hope this information has shed some light to both; Christians and Catholics alike. I strongly believe that Mary did not remain a virgin after the birth of Jesus. And if we can understand this, then we can also understand and acknowledge as to why the holy scriptures say that Jesus indeed had brothers and sisters (Matthew 12:46) // (Matthew 13:55). God willing, I will write a segment on this.
PETER the POPE?
"ROCK"
Was the Apostle Peter the first Pope?
Catholics use Matthew 16:18 to defend their belief that Peter was ordained as the chief Shepheard of the Church of God.
Matthew 16:15-18
15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, that thou art G4074-Peter-Πέτρος (Petros)-properly: a stone (pebble), such as a small rock found along a pathway; Apostle:—Peter), and upon this *G4073-rock-πέτρᾳ (petra)-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge) I will build-οἰκοδομήσω (oikodomeso)-to build a house, to be a house-builder, i.e. construct or (figuratively) confirm:—(be in) build(-er, -ing, up), edify, embolden. ) my-μου (mou)-of me) church-ἐκκλησίαν (ekklesian)-that which is called out, assembly): and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
Example of Greek word:
Greek Interlinear:
-
I say-λέγω: Verb, Present, Active, Indicative, 1st Person, Singular: “And ["I-AM-sayING"] also unto thee, That thou
-
art-εἶ: Verb, Present, Active, Indicative, 1st Person, Singular: ["ARE"] Peter, and upon this rock
-
I will build-οἰκοδομήσω: Verb, Future, Active, Indicative, 1st Person, Singular: ["I-SHALL-BE-HOME-BUILDING"//"I-shall-be-building"]
-
my-μου: Personal/Possessive Pronoun, 1st Person, Genitive, Singular: ["OF-ME"] church: and the gates of hell
-
shall prevail-κατισχύσουσιν: Verb, Future, Active, Indicative, 3rd Person, Plural: ["SHALL-BE-DOWN-STRONG-ING"//"shall-be-prevailing"] not against it.”
The argument: Is Peter the Rock?
1 Corinthians 10:1-4
1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; 2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; 3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat; 4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual-πνευματικός (pneumatikos)-spiritual) G4073-Rock-πέτρας (petras)-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge) that followed them: and that G4073-Rock-πέτρα (petra)-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge, (metaphorically: of Christ; (a) as the antitype fulfilling the event foreshadowed by the rock in the wilderness, offering "living water" when struck )) was Christ.
The Apostle Paul is comparing Jesus Christ to the spiritual Rock that Moses struck with his rod. Compare with:
Exodus 17:6
“Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock-הַצּוּר (haṣ-ṣūr)-a rock or boulder, cliff, (properly, a cliff (or sharp rock, as compressed); generally, a rock or boulder)) in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock-בַצּוּר (ḇaṣ-ṣūr,)-a rock or boulder, cliff, (properly, a cliff (or sharp rock, as compressed); generally, a rock or boulder)), and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.”
Moses smote the rock that was a "type/figure" of the Christ. Some key points to note between the rock and Jesus: 1) A rock makes a strong foundation (Jesus is the foundation of the Church, he is the chief corner stone). 2) Water quenches our thirst, it is essential for life (Jesus is our living water, whosoever drinks of him shall live). 3) Moses smote the rock (Jesus was bruised and died for the sins of the world).
"ROCK" vs "STONE"
"The difference between
G4073-Rock & G3037-stone & G4074-stone"
John 1:41-42
41 “He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. 42 And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas-Κηφᾶς (Kephas)-Cephas= "stone", (a surname of Peter:—Cephas), which is by interpretation, G4074-A stone-Πέτρος (Petros)-properly: a stone (pebble), such as a small rock found along a pathway; the name given to the Apostle:—Peter).”
Okay, First, lets understand the definition of the word Rock. Back in 1 Corinthians 10:4, Jesus is called the G4073-Rock-πέτρας (petras)-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge). Below is an example of G4073-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge) in
Matthew 7:24
24 “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon G4073-a rock-πέτραν (petran)-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge): 25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a G4073-rock-πέτραν (petran)-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge). 26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."
Commentary:
***The key to everlasting life is in Jesus' saying, "these words of mine!" Throughout the New Testament, the final, ultimate and exclusive authority in true religion is the word spoken by Christ. Jesus commanded the church to teach "whatsoever I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:20). He declared that the words he spoke would judge men at the last day (John 12:48). The true religion was "first spoken" by Christ (Hebrews 2:3). "Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God (2 John 1:1:9). Apostles warned that men ought to learn how "not to go beyond the things which are written" (1 Corinthians 4:6). "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly" (Colossians 3:16), Jesus said, "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away" (Matthew 24:35). The most important fact to know with reference to Christianity is that it is "of Christ"! Not even the apostles were commissioned to go beyond the word of Christ. Even the reception of the Holy Spirit in their hearts was not for the purpose of imparting additional truth but for bringing to their remembrance the things Christ taught (John 14:26). The current notion that any man in whom the Holy Spirit is supposed to dwell may properly determine the true nature and content of Christian doctrine is emphatically denied in the affirmation of Christ that, even in the apostles, the Holy Spirit did not speak "of himself." "For he shall not speak from himself; but what things soever he shall hear, these shall he speak ... for he shall take of mine, and shall declare it unto you" (John 16:13-15). Wise man who built his house upon the rock. The "rock" is nothing more nor less than "these words of mine," namely, the words of Christ.-(Coffman's Commentaries). SL
Here is another example of
G4073-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge).
Mark 15:46
“And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of G4073-a rock-πέτρας (petras)-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge), and rolled-προσεκύλισεν (prosekulisen)-to roll toward) G3037-a stone-λίθον (lithon)-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock)) unto the door of the sepulchre.”
The sepulcher (a burial room) was hewn (cut-out) out of a rock. Also, notice the words (rock) and (stone). As you can see, a (rock) is greater than a (stone). However, the G3037-stone in this verse, is greater than G4074-A stone mentioned in:
John 1:42
(". . .Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas-Κηφᾶς (Kephas)-Cephas="stone", (a surname of Peter:—Cephas), which is by interpretation, G4074-A stone-Πέτρος (Petros)-properly: a stone (pebble), such as a small rock found along a pathway; the name given to the Apostle:—Peter).).
Furthermore, the (stone) was (rolled-προσεκύλισεν (prosekulisen)-to roll toward) unto the door of the sepulchre.), which implies that a (G3037-stone) can be large and heavy enough, but not larger than the (G4073-rock).
Cross reference:
Matthew 27:60
“And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the G4073-rock-πέτρᾳ (petra)-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge): and he rolled a great stone-λίθον (lithon)-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock)) to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.”).
Although this verse mentions a "great (stone) door"; it is still not greater than the (rock) from which the sepulcher (tomb) was hewed out.
Here is another example for the word
stone-G3037-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock)).
Matthew 7:9
(“Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him G3037-a stone-λίθον (lithon)-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock))?”)
As we can see, a (G3037-stone-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock)) is smaller than a (G4073-rock-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge)), but bigger than a (G4074-stone)-properly: a stone (pebble), such as a small rock found along a pathway).
Now,
Interestingly, G4074-properly: a stone (pebble), such as a small rock found along a pathway; Apostle:—Peter) is found [162] times in the KJV. Even more interesting is that in [161] times, G4074 is only used for the word: "Peter". In other words, every time you see the name "Peter", it stems from: G4074.
The Inflection of G4074: (i.e. speech, tense, voice, mood, person, number) varies from verse to verse.
Here are some examples: [G4074-Πέτρε-(Petre)="Peter"-(Luk 22:34)] // [G4074-Πέτρου-(Petrou)="Peter's"-(Mat 8:14)] // [G4074-Πέτρος-(Petros)="Peter"-(Mat 14:28)] // [G4074 Πέτρον-(Petron)="Peter"-(Gal 1:18)], etc.,
Nevertheless, all of these 161 variations, or (inflections) of G4074 refer to "Peter".
As for the additional (1) other use of G4074 (161+1=162), is found in:
John 1:42
And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas-Κηφᾶς (Kephas)-Cephas= "stone", (a surname of Peter:—Cephas), which is by interpretation-ἑρμηνεύεται (hermeneuetai)-to interpret, explain, (to translate:—interpret)), G4074-A stone-Πέτρος (Petros)-properly: a stone (pebble), such as a small rock found along a pathway; the name given to the Apostle:—Peter).
Do you see the connection here? G4074 was specifically and uniquely reserved and given to ["Simon Peter"] alone. Simon was called (Cephas) which is by interpretation-ἑρμηνεύεται (hermeneuetai)-to interpret, explain, (to translate:—interpret)) G4074-A stone-Πέτρος (Petros). In summary, G4074 is found (162) times in the Bible, of which, (161) times is for the name of "Peter", and (1) other time for "A stone"; which is the interpretation for "Cephas", which is the name given to Simon.
Nevertheless,
G4074-A stone-Πέτρος (Petros)-properly: a stone (pebble), such as a small rock found along a pathway; the name given to the Apostle:—Peter) is not greater than the G4073-rock-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge)), which is (Christ).
Let's tie the knot,
IF Matthew 16:18 had said: (". . .and upon this G4074-stone-Πέτρος (Petros) I will build my church. . .") then we can rightfully assume or conclude that Jesus was speaking of (Peter). Some commentators have suggested that the (rock) in Matthew 16:18 is in reference to the statement/confession that Peter made in Matthew 16:16, that is; (" . . Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God."). I personally accept either interpretation (i.e. to the confession that Peter made in Matthew 16:16, or, Jesus referring to himself as the (rock)).
Lo!, I show you a little more; Did you know, that the words: "small rock" or "little rock" cannot be found in the King James Bible; that's because a (rock) is not "small" nor "little". But you can find the words (great rock) only once, in Isaiah 32:1-3,
"Behold,
a King shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment. And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest: as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock-סֶֽלַע־ (se-la‘-)-a craggy rock, crag, cliff, (literally or figuratively (a fortress):—(ragged) rock, stone(-ny), strong hold) in a weary land. And the eyes of them that see, shall not be dim: and the ears of them that hear, shall hearken.”
This,
speaks of Hezekiah, a type or figure of Christ; the Righteous King.
Again,
Matthew 16:18
18 "And I say also unto thee, that thou art G4074-Peter-Πέτρος (Petros)-properly: a stone (pebble), such as a small rock found along a pathway; Apostle:—Peter), and upon this G4073-rock-πέτρᾳ (petra)-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge) I will build-οἰκοδομήσω (oikodomeso)-to build a house, to be a house-builder, i.e. construct or (figuratively) confirm:—(be in) build(-er, -ing, up), edify, embolden) my-μου (mou)-of me) Church-ἐκκλησίαν (ekklesian)-that which is called out, assembly): and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
So,
Whom do you say, the (Rock) is?
"CORNER STONE"
The Chief Corner Stone
1 Peter 2:1-8
1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 As newborn babes desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby, 3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. 4 To whom coming, as unto a living G3037-Stone-Λίθον (Lithon)-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock)), disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, 5 Ye also, as lively G3037-stones-λίθοι (lithoi)-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock)), are built up a spiritual house, an holy Priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifice, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 6 Wherefore also it is contained in the Scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion G204-a chief corner-ἀκρογωνιαῖον (akrogoniaion)-placed at an extreme corner, the corner foundation stone) G3037-stone-λίθον (lithon)-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock)), elect, precious, and he that believeth on him, shall not be confounded. 7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious; but unto them which be disobedient, G3037-the stone-λίθον (lithon)-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock)) which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, 8 And G3037-a Stone-Λίθος (Lithos)-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock)) of stumbling, and G4073-a Rock G4073-πέτρα (petra)-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge) of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient, whereunto also they were appointed.
Oh my, much can be said here. But for the sake of making my point, I will draw your attention to the (chief corner stone). First, I'd like to begin by emphasizing who the author is; Peter.
Now, Peter is comparing the temple (of the old covenant) with the church of Christ. 1) The old temple was built with (stones), compare:
Mark 13:1-2
1 "And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here! 2 And Jesus answering said unto him, Seest thou these great buildings? there shall not be left G3037-one stone-λίθος (lithos)-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock)) upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”
However, the church of Christ is made up of lively G3037-stones-λίθοι (lithoi) unto a spiritual and living temple, as opposed to a physical temple. This living temple is a spiritual one, compare:
Ephesians 2:20-21
20 “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being G204-the chief corner-ἀκρογωνιαίου (akrogoniaiou)-placed at an extreme corner, the corner foundation stone) G3037-stone-λίθον (lithon)-a stone: of small stones, building stones, (stone, piece of rock)); In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:”
As you can see, this (holy temple:—body of believers) has a (chief corner stone:— Jesus), (in whom:— Jesus) (all the building:— Christians) fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord). Now, in masonry, a corner stone is the first stone that is set upon a foundation. Compare:
Job 38:6
6 “Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof;”.
OR,
1 Corinthians 3:11
“For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
Did you notice, it says that (no man) can lay another foundation besides that which Jesus Christ has laid already. You see, (Jesus Christ) is both, the foundation and the (chief corner stone). And not only so, but he is also a G4073-a Rock G4073-πέτρα (petra)-a (large mass of) rock, cliff or ledge) of offence, even to them which stumble at the word. The words (chief corner stone) are only found twice in the entire Bible, in (1 Peter 2:6) and (Ephesians 2:20); written by two great witnesses; Peter and Paul.
What is my point?
I am trying to put the emphasis on Jesus Christ who alone is the Foundation, Head of the body, and Chief Corner Stone. There should be no reason in absolute to believe that Jesus "gave", "passed-down", or "appointed" a man as his vicar (def. A vicar is a representative, deputy or substitute; anyone acting "in the person of" or agent for a superior.). Jesus Christ still IS our only head, and our head is at the right hand of God.
"GREATEST"
Now,
in the following verses we will analyze whether Peter was the (greatest) among the Apostles, or a (servant).
Mark 9:34-35
31 For he taught his disciples, and said unto them, The Son of man is delivered into the hands of men, and they shall kill him; and after that he is killed, he shall rise the third day. 32 But they understood not that saying, and were afraid to ask him. 33 And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? 34 But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who G3187 -should be the greatest-μείζων (meizon)-greater (literally or figuratively), greater(-est), more). 35 And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first-πρῶτος (protos)-foremost (order or importance):—best, chief(-est), first (of all), first in rank, principal), the same shall be last-ἔσχατος (eschatos)-last, (of rank, grade of worth, last i.e. lowest)) of all, and G1249-servant-διάκονος (diakonos)-a servant, attendant, minister) of all.
The disciples argued among themselves, who should be the greatest, but Jesus made the comparison of two opposites; "If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all". Jesus made it clear that there is no hierarchy in his church; Jesus prohibits lordship over the Saints. If Peter was the first Pope, then he was against the teachings of Jesus. Notice the wisdom of this verse, If any man wants to be first (chief), he does so, by being last (lowest) and a servant (attendant) of all. In other words, verse 35 is saying that a Christian cannot be exalted, nor can he exalt himself to supremacy, kingship, rulership, or the like. Popes on the other hand, have authority over the Roman Catholic Church, and over everyone that is under its jurisdiction. Peter never had such power.
Below is another example of
G1249-servant-διάκονος (diakonos)-a servant, attendant, minister)
John 12:26
26 "If any man serve-διακονῇ (diakone)- to be an attendant, ministrant, (i.e. wait upon) me, let him follow-ἀκολουθέω (akoloutheō)- to follow, to join one as a disciple, become or be his disciple) me-ἐμοί (emoi)-to me:—I, me); and where I am, there shall also my G1249-servant-διάκονος (diakonos)-a servant, attendant, minister) be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
look again, it says (let him follow me). Christians should only be following and obeying the words of Jesus, and not that of any other man. All Christians are G1249-servants of the Lord, regardless of where God has placed them in the Body of Christ, whether he be a pastor, a teacher, a deacon, or a Bishop in the Church-(i.e. the body of Christ).
Luke 22:23-26
23 "And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing. 24 And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted-δοκεῖ (dokei)-to appear, have the appearance, (intransitive: to seem, be accounted, reputed)) G3187-the greatest-μείζων (meizon)-greater (literally or figuratively), greater(-est), more). 25 And he said unto them, The kings-βασιλεῖς (basileis)-a king, (leader of the people, prince, commander, lord of the land, king) of the Gentiles-ἐθνῶν (ethon)-nation, a race) exercise lordship over-κυριεύουσιν (kurieuousin)-to be lord of, to rule, have dominion over) them; and they that exercise authority-ἐξουσιάζοντες (exousiazontes)-to use or take privilege, (i.e. to control:—exercise authority upon)) upon them are called benefactors-εὐεργέται (euergetai)-well-doer). 26 But ye shall not-οὐχ (ouch)-no, not (the absolute negative)) be so-οὕτως (outos)-in this manner, thus, so, after this manner): but G3187-he that is greatest-μείζων (meizon)-greater (literally or figuratively), greater(-est), more) among you, let him be as-ὡς (hos)-(according) as, even as, in like manner (just) as)) the younger-νεώτερος (neoteros)-new, young); and he that is chief-ἡγούμενος (egoumenos)-to lead, go before), as-ὡς (hos)