New Earth Living Spiritual Studies Group

Daily & Saturday 4:45 PM Meeting

Summary and Article

Exploring Scripture Beyond Tradition: Exodus 20, Enoch, Repentance, and the Search for Truth

The New Earth Living Spiritual Studies Group gathered for its Daily & Saturday 4:45 PM study session to continue its examination of Scripture, biblical history, and spiritual understanding. Led by Wallace “Temple” Temple Jr., the meeting focused primarily on Exodus Chapter 20 and the Ten Commandments while expanding into broader discussions involving the Book of Enoch, the Book of Jubilees, repentance, Sabbath observance, fallen angels, and the development of modern religious doctrines.

Reading Exodus 20 and the Ten Commandments

The meeting began with a group reading of Exodus 20:1-17, where participants reviewed the Ten Commandments. During the discussion, Temple emphasized that according to the biblical account, the commandments were spoken directly by God to the people, while Moses served as the recorder and mediator of those events.

The conversation expanded into references from the Book of Jubilees, where participants discussed the role of the “Angel of the Presence” and examined how additional ancient texts may provide context to events recorded in the Torah.

Participants reflected on how many believers understand biblical stories primarily through traditions, artwork, and popular teachings rather than through direct study of the text itself.

The Challenge of Accepting New Biblical Information

Temple and M3l3k explored why many people struggle when introduced to information that differs from long-held religious assumptions. The discussion highlighted how visual imagery, cultural traditions, and denominational teachings often shape understanding more strongly than personal scriptural study.

The group noted that introducing alternative biblical sources such as the Book of Enoch or the Book of Jubilees can be challenging because many believers have never been exposed to these writings despite their historical influence on early Jewish and Christian thought.

Participants stressed the importance of beginning with familiar biblical passages before presenting lesser-known manuscripts and historical sources.

Exegesis vs. Eisegesis in Modern Teaching

A major portion of the discussion focused on biblical interpretation.

M3l3k explained the distinction between:

• Exegesis — drawing meaning from the text itself.

• Eisegesis — reading personal beliefs or assumptions into the text.

The group examined how many modern doctrines have developed through interpretation rather than explicit scriptural statements. Participants discussed how pastors and religious leaders often teach theological concepts without explaining the historical, linguistic, or cultural context behind those teachings.

The conversation encouraged members to become students of Scripture rather than relying solely on secondhand interpretations.

Examining the Rapture Doctrine

One of the most detailed discussions centered on the doctrine of the rapture.

M3l3k presented historical information regarding the development of modern rapture theology and discussed the influence of nineteenth-century preacher and theologian John Nelson Darby.

Participants explored the Greek term harpazō and compared its usage in Scripture to the later English word “rapture,” discussing whether modern theological understandings align with the original biblical language.

As a result, group members were encouraged to research and prepare their own conclusions regarding:

• Resurrection

• Rapture

• The Second Coming

• Historical interpretations of these doctrines

These topics will continue in future sessions.

Sabbath, Healing, and the Spirit of the Law

The group revisited several New Testament passages involving Yeshua (Jesus), particularly questions surrounding healing on the Sabbath.

Participants examined passages where religious leaders accused Yeshua of violating Sabbath laws. Elder Kenny and M3l3k emphasized that the accusations themselves do not necessarily prove wrongdoing but reveal ongoing conflicts regarding the interpretation of the law.

Discussion focused on the distinction between:

• Legalistic rule enforcement

• The underlying purpose of divine commandments

• Loving God and loving one’s neighbor

The group concluded that understanding the spirit of the law is essential for understanding many biblical controversies.

Repentance and Confession

The meeting then shifted toward the topic of repentance.

Temple asked whether Scripture requires public confession before a congregation. Participants examined passages such as the Epistle of James and discussed historical practices involving public and private confession.

Rabbi David provided historical context regarding Israel’s priesthood system and used King David as an example of repentance that resulted in divine forgiveness.

The discussion emphasized:

• Personal accountability

• Direct prayer to God

• Genuine repentance

• Restoration through forgiveness

Participants generally agreed that repentance begins with a sincere heart rather than public performance.

Adam, Eve, and the Tree of Knowledge

Temple led a thoughtful discussion about Adam and Eve and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

The group examined whether the tree itself represented evil or whether the sin was rooted in disobedience.

Drawing from Genesis and additional ancient writings such as the Book of Adam and Eve, participants concluded that the issue was not knowledge itself but humanity’s choice to violate a divine command.

This discussion led to broader reflections on:

• Free will

• Personal responsibility

• Spiritual law

• The consequences of disobedience

Fallen Angels and Spiritual Deception

The study continued with an examination of Genesis 6 and traditions regarding fallen angels.

Participants discussed:

• Angelic hierarchies

• The rebellion of Satan

• The Watchers described in the Book of Enoch

• Spiritual deception throughout human history

The group also considered how additional manuscripts provide context for biblical passages that receive only brief treatment in canonical Scripture.

Discussions emphasized the importance of discernment, prayer, and maintaining direct communion with God to avoid deception.

Biblical Manuscripts Beyond the Traditional Canon

Temple and M3l3k concluded by discussing historical manuscripts and apocryphal literature, including:

• Book of Enoch

• Book of Jubilees

• Book of Adam and Eve

• Gospel of Nicodemus

Participants noted that modern technology has made many ancient manuscripts more accessible than at any other time in history, allowing believers to compare sources and study historical contexts for themselves.

The discussion highlighted the importance of approaching all texts with careful study, humility, and a desire to understand Scripture more fully.

Next Week’s Assignments

M3l3k

• Research Hebrew and Greek terms related to the story of Amnon and Tamar.

• Compare the Greek word harpazō with the English and Latin concept of “rapture.”

• Present examples supporting resurrection versus rapture interpretations.

• Provide linguistic analysis and supporting manuscript evidence.

Temple

• Share PDFs, manuscript resources, and study links discussed during the session.

• Continue facilitating discussion on biblical interpretation and historical context.

All Participants

• Prepare to share whether they believe in the doctrine of the rapture and explain the scriptural basis for their position.

Closing Reflection

The New Earth Living Spiritual Studies Group meeting emphasized a recurring theme: the importance of studying Scripture carefully, examining historical context, and seeking wisdom through direct engagement with biblical texts. Through discussion, questions, and respectful debate, participants explored the relationship between tradition, doctrine, and personal understanding while encouraging one another to continue searching for truth with diligence and humility.

Meeting Time: Daily & Saturdays at 4:45 PM

Host: Wallace “Temple” Temple Jr.

Organization: New Earth Living Spiritual Studies Group

Topic Focus: Exodus 20, Biblical Interpretation, Repentance, Sabbath Understanding, Rapture Doctrine, Fallen Angels, and Ancient Manuscripts.