1. Titles in Scripture. Scripture titles sometimes conferred on most unexpected people. Of Cyrus King of Persia God says, “Thus saith the LORD... That saith of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid.” (Isa 44:28)

2. Cyrus and God’s Plans. Cyrus - heathen King - “my shepherd” - yet to “perform all my pleasure.” Cyrus’ actions are to please God. “...and I will direct all his ways: he shall build my city, and he shall let go my captives, not for price nor reward, saith the LORD of hosts.” (Isa 45:13) Cyrus’ aims were coincidentally same as God wanted for His people Israel.

3. Cyrus - God’s Anointed. Cyrus’ motives were his own. Cyrus given title “anointed”:- “Thus saith the LORD to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him...” (Isa 45:1) Has overtones of future work of Jesus who only will complete that purpose. Chart of other examples of Scriptural titles.

4. Titles Conferred in Scripture.

5. Man’s Freewill to Act. Such people act on their own freewill. It may well be that God uses them to forward his purpose on earth. Important principle in Revelation - must be remembered to avoid misinterpretation. “a man child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron” (Rev 12:5) - not necessarily reference to Jesus - must examine context.