DEBUNKING JOSE J. BERNAL AND HIS BOOK " THE TRUTH ABOUT THE HARBINGER"

 

Jose J Bernal author of  THE SO CALLED BOOK "THE Truth About The Harbinger" While Jonathan Cahn's  The Harbinger  has been a massive commercial success, it has faced significant theological and hermeneutical controversies, primarily from Christian scholars and theologians.  Major areas of controversy include: 1. Misinterpretation of Scripture (Eisegesis)  Critics argue that Cahn uses eisegesis—reading his own ideas into the text—rather than exegesis.  Isaiah 9:10 Misapplication: The central claim of the book is that  Isaiah 9:10  contains a "mystery" that applies to modern America. Biblical scholars argue this prophecy was specifically for the ancient Northern Kingdom of Israel and was fulfilled historically when they were destroyed by Assyria. Ignoring Context: The broader context of  Isaiah 9  describes devastating judgment, not a "warning" or "harbingers" meant to lead to repentance, which critics say Cahn ignores to fit his narrative.  2. The "America as the New Israel" Fallacy A core point of contention is the implication that the United States is in a covenant relationship with God similar to ancient Israel.  Theological Error: Most orthodox theologians maintain that God only has one covenant nation, Israel, and that America has no such biblical standing. Nationalism: Critics argue this approach promotes a form of Christian nationalism that detracts from the universal gospel message of salvation through Christ.  3. Allegorical and Mystical Interpretation Cahn’s method of finding "hidden mysteries" and "ancient blueprints" in the Bible has been heavily criticized.  Biblical Sufficiency: Critics claim this treats the Bible as a "mystical codebook" rather than a clear, authoritative revelation. Kabbalistic Influence: Some critics allege that Cahn’s "mystery-seeking" approach is influenced by Jewish mysticism (Kabbalah) rather than traditional biblical scholarship.  4. Sensationalism and "Selling Fear" Many critics view the book's promotional style and claims as sensationalist.  Speculative Prophecy: Critics point out that several of Cahn's specific predictions (such as those regarding economic collapses related to the "Shemitah" cycle) have not manifested as described. Profit Motive: Some high-profile critics have described the book as "selling fear" for financial gain.  5. Historical and Factual Stretching Researchers have challenged the "empirical" facts Cahn uses to link 9/11 to ancient Israel.  Stretching Facts: For example, Cahn identifies a "cedar" replacing a "sycamore" at Ground Zero as a harbinger; however, critics note the tree was actually a Norway Spruce, which is not a cedar. Selective History: Critics argue Cahn ignores other devastating events in U.S. history (like the Civil War or Pearl Harbor) that do not fit his specific nine-harbinger pattern.  6) Despite these critiques, supporters like Jose J. Bernal a self proclaimed apologist mistakenly argues and believe that Cahn’s work is a vital "prophetic warning" intended to call a drifting nation back to God through repentance.   In conclusion, Cahn's claims of unlocking profound new mysteries or specific templates can inadvertently imply that the existing Scriptures is insufficient or unclear without his so called unique prophetic insights. His emphasis often appears to be on finding precise, hidden patterns and timing, which overshadows the primary purpose of biblical prophecy which is a call to repentance and to reveal God's character. Be cautious of interpretations that rely on intricate hidden codes, numerology, or complex, speculative connections not explicitly taught in Scripture.