TLDR;
This video features a debate between Prophet Onésime and Brother Ben Nathan regarding the identity of Elijah in Malachi 4. Onésime argues Elijah is a Jewish prophet exclusively for Israel, while Nathan contends Elijah's message extends beyond Israel to those who fear God's name in the West (identified as the United States). The debate covers interpretations of scripture, the role of John the Baptist, and whether William Branham fulfilled the prophecy of Malachi 4.
- Prophet Onésime argues that Elijah is a Jewish prophet exclusively for Israel.
- Ben Nathan contends that Elijah's message extends beyond Israel.
- The debate covers interpretations of scripture and the role of John the Baptist.
Introduction and Setting the Stage [0:00]
The host, Jules M'biye, introduces the debate between Prophet Onésime and Brother Ben Nathan, focusing on the interpretation of Malachi 4. The central question is whether Elijah, as mentioned in Malachi 4, refers to John the Baptist or William Branham, as some claim. Viewers are encouraged to send messages and participate in the discussion.
Prophet Onésime's Perspective on Elijah [8:23]
Prophet Onésime asserts that Elijah was a Jewish prophet whose mission was to turn the hearts of the Israelites back to God. He reads Malachi 4:5-6, emphasising that Elijah's role is within the nation of Israel, not the church. Onésime explains that Elijah's ministry occurred during the first dispensation, with Moses as its leader. He defines the "days of the Lord" as a time of judgement and states that Elijah must come before these days to reconcile the children of Israel with God.
Ben Nathan's Counter-Argument on Elijah's Identity [13:36]
Ben Nathan disagrees with Onésime, stating that the debate about Elijah in Malachi 4 is not new. He references past debates with Jehovah's Witnesses and Assemblies of Saints. Nathan argues that understanding Malachi 4 requires starting from the beginning of the chapter, not just verses 5 and 6. He quotes Malachi 4:1, which speaks of the day coming like a furnace, affecting all the proud and wicked, not just those in Israel. Nathan uses Isaiah 59:19 to argue that the fear of the Lord originates from the West (the United States), where the church resides, implying Elijah's message is for a broader audience than just Israel.
Debate on the Interpretation of Prophecy [21:53]
Prophet Onésime responds to Ben Nathan's interpretation, explaining that biblical prophecy places God's agenda within its specific time and context. He argues against taking prophetic scripture literally and applying it outside of its intended scope. Onésime uses 1 Corinthians 14 to illustrate the importance of interpreting prophecy with revelation, not just knowledge. He maintains that the church is not exclusively in the West and that Elijah's ministry is specifically tied to the nation of Israel.
Ben Nathan Challenges Onésime's View with Scriptural Analysis [27:27]
Ben Nathan critiques Onésime's arguments, pointing out inconsistencies in his statements. He reiterates that Malachi 4:1 speaks of all the proud and wicked, not just those in Israel. Nathan refers to Malachi 4:2 and Isaiah, highlighting that those who fear the Lord are in the West. He then references Malachi 4:4, where God reminds Israel of the law of Moses, arguing that this is a direct address to Israel, not the church. Nathan uses an analogy to illustrate that God would not address Israel by reminding them of laws prescribed "for Israel" if He were speaking directly to them.
Onésime Defends His Position and Cites Matthew [34:33]
Prophet Onésime defends his position, stating that all biblical subjects are open for debate at any time. He cites Matthew 11:13-14, where Jesus says that all the prophets and the law prophesied until John, and "if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come." Onésime also references Matthew 17:11-13, where Jesus says that Elijah has already come and was not recognised, implying that this refers to John the Baptist. He emphasises the need for multiple witnesses (verses) to establish a doctrinal point.
Ben Nathan Elaborates on Elijah and John the Baptist [43:13]
Ben Nathan argues that Onésime misunderstands Jesus's presentation of John the Baptist as Elijah. He cites John 1:19-21, where John denies being Elijah, and contrasts this with Jesus's statement. Nathan explains that John knew he was not the Elijah who would restore all things, but rather the one who would fulfil Malachi 3. He references the angel Gabriel's prophecy to Zacharias, stating that John would come in the spirit and power of Elijah.
Final Arguments and Challenges [51:47]
In the final round, Prophet Onésime claims he hasn't heard any solid arguments from Ben Nathan. He reiterates that he never said Elijah would come after the rapture. Onésime quotes Matthew 22:29, stating that Ben Nathan doesn't understand the scriptures or the power of God. Ben Nathan responds by pointing out inconsistencies in Onésime's statements and challenging him to reconcile John the Baptist's denial of being Elijah with Jesus's affirmation. He asserts that the prophecy of Malachi 4 was fulfilled by William Branham, who restored key doctrines to the church. The debate ends with both participants maintaining their positions.
