I never have liked alarm clocks very much. Most of you probably don't, either. Since we all have to get started in the morning, they are needed, but they sure are annoying.
You're asleep in your bed, probably dreaming peacefully, when...
BEEP-BEEP-BEEP-BEEP-BEEP
Being suddenly jarred awake just doesn't seem appropriate! If you have a tendency to hit the snooze button, you may have already moved the clock to the other side of the room some years ago.
"Aw, come on!" you may be thinking, "what would be wrong with just a few more minutes?"
If it were not for the alarm going off, a lot of us would never keep a job, get to school or get going with what needs to be done. That is just the way we are, right?
God knows this better than we do. This is why there are so many warnings in the Bible of what is to come. Mostly, we just hit the "snooze button" again, and keep doing what we do best...
- - - business as usual!
It may come as a surprise that our Creator has actually arranged for a last "Wake-Up Call" to get us all "out of bed" and back to the business He intends.
What is this "wake-up call" you may be wondering. Just what exactly is God's "alarm clock?" Look at the Lord's words, recorded by the prophet, Ezekiel...
..."And the word of the Lord came to me, saying,
...'Son of man, let your face be turned against Gog, of the land of Magog, the ruler of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal, and be a prophet against him,'
...And say, 'This is what the Lord has said: See, I am against you, O Gog, ruler of Rosh, Meshech, and Tubal:
...And turning you round, I will put hooks in your mouth and make you come out with all your army, horses and horsemen, all of them in full war-dress, a great force with breastplate and body-cover, all of them armed with swords:
...Persia, Cush, and Put with them; all of them with body-cover and metal head-dress:
...Gomer and all her forces; the people of Togarmah in the inmost parts of the north, with all his forces: a great number of peoples with you.
...Be ready, make yourself ready, you and all the forces who are with you, and be ready for my orders.
...After a long time you will get your orders: in the last years you will come into the land which has been given back from the sword, which has been got together out of a great number of peoples, on the mountains of Israel which have ever been a waste: but it has been taken out from the peoples and they will be living, all of them, without fear of danger.
...And you will go up, you will come like a storm, you will be like a cloud covering the land, you and all your forces, and a great number of peoples with you.'
...This is what the Lord has said: 'In that day it will come about that things will come into your mind, and you will have thoughts of an evil design:
...And you will say, I will go up to the land of small unwalled towns; I will go to those who are quiet, living, all of them, without fear of danger, without walls or locks or doors:
...To take their property by force and go off with their goods; turning your hand against the waste places which now are peopled, and against the people who have been got together out of the nations, who have got cattle and goods for themselves, who are living in the middle of the earth.
...Sheba, and Dedan and her traders, Tarshish with all her traders, will say to you, Have you come to take our goods? have you got your armies together to take away our property by force? to take away silver and gold, cattle and goods, to go off with great wealth?'
...For this cause, son of man, be a prophet and say to Gog, These are the words of the Lord: 'In that day, when my people Israel are living without fear of danger, will you not be moved against them?
...And you will come from your place in the inmost parts of the north, you and a great number of peoples with you, all of them on horseback, a great force and a strong army:
...And you will come up against my people Israel, like a cloud covering the land; and it will come about, in the last days, that I will make you come against my land, so that the nations may have knowledge of me when I make myself holy in you, O Gog, before their eyes.'
...This is what the Lord has said: 'You are he of whom I gave them word in earlier times by my servants, the prophets of Israel, who in those days went on saying, year after year, that I would make you come up against them.
...And it will come about in that day, when Gog comes up against the land of Israel,' says the Lord, 'that my wrath will come up, and my passion and my bitter feeling.
...For in the fire of my wrath I have said, Truly, in that day there will be a great shaking in the land of Israel;
...So that the fish of the sea and the birds of heaven and the beasts of the field and everything moving on the earth, and all the men who are on the face of the earth, will be shaking before me, and the mountains will be overturned and the high places will come down, and every wall will come falling down to the earth.
...And I will send to all my mountains for a sword against him,' says the Lord: 'every man's sword will be against his brother.
...And I will take up my cause against him with disease and with blood; and I will send down on him and on his forces and on the peoples who are with him, an overflowing shower and great ice-drops, fire, and burning.
...And I will make my name great and make myself holy, and I will make myself clear to a number of nations; and they will be certain that I am the Lord.' " (Ezek 38) bev
So, what does this all mean?
It is critical, in my opinion, for us to remember that our modern names for people, places, technology, weapons and even modes of transportation did not exist in Ezekiel's time. We can NOT expect people then to have known our modern terms for these things, any more than it would have been logical for Genghis Khan to be expected to have known the names of the cities in England, today. People who insist that this prophecy is wrong, for these reasons, are doing Satan's work for him. So, lets look at the meaning of some of the terms used here...
Gog - means either a mountain, lofty height or supreme leader
Magog - the south/central part of Asia, used to be part of the Soviet Union (the Islamic Republics)
Rosh (also Ros or Rus) - is the name for a specific group of people dwelling in a specific area in Europe, now named for these same people - Russia
Meschech - a part of present-day Turkey
Tubal - also a part of present-day Turkey
Persia - now called Iran
Cush - now called Sudan
Put - current called Libya
Gomer - part of present-day Turkey
Togarmah (also Beth-Torgarmah) - southern Turkey
OK, so it looks like the leader of Russia and several Islamic nations will stage an attack upon Israel, in part, to forcibly take back the land that was given to the Jewish people peaceably, and by treaty. It appears that this will not come about until Israel feels itself to be somewhat more at peace, perhaps they will be fooled by a false treaty. The invaders plan to completely take over the country, steal everything, and probably kill the entire population. They will attack in overwhelming numbers, "like a cloud covering the land," making their intentions quite obvious.
The Lord will allow this attack so that He can make plain His power, "so that the nations may have knowledge of me." God has said that His "wrath will come up", and His "passion and bitter feeling."
Why, you may ask?
At this time, God is giving the world one last chance. He wants the Jewish people to recognize that His Son is the Messiah. He wants all of us to accept our salvation. Remember, "The Lord is not slow concerning his promise, as some count slowness; but is longsuffering towards us, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." (2Pet 3:9) wev
Some time after this occurs, there will come the Rapture. Sometime after that will come a seven-year treaty with Israel, which signals the start of the Tribulation, which will be something like a sentence to Misery and Suffering Prison.
We do NOT know when the alarm will go off, because God does NOT want us to think we can wait until the last minute to get our lives in order.
All we really know is that it will be soon...
...maybe today!
......maybe tomorrow!
.........Don't Oversleep!
See you soon (very soon?), in Paradise!
Showing posts with label prophecy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label prophecy. Show all posts
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Thursday, January 26, 2012
The Man From S.A.T.A.N.
Back in the mid 60s, there was a popular television program called, "The Man From U.N.C.L.E." It was a humorous look at international spies, and their organizations. Its gave the viewer a chance to laugh, and relieve some of the tension created by the subversive activities of the superpowers and terrorist nations.
Today, organizations within our own country are the cause of dangers that far outreach anything even dreamed of when this show aired. A cursory reading of the Bible shows us that preparation is being made for the Antichrist to take the scene. Following the lead of the previously mentioned TV show, I feel we could simply call him, "The Man From S.A.T.A.N."
Resistance to the acceptance of the Bible's prophecy is widespread, and intensifying at a fearsome rate. Remember that biblical prophecy is history written in advance. Therefore, Jesus' words (here) are more than just historically accurate; He is there, now, while these things are happening.
..."As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, 'What is the sign of your coming, and of the end of the world?' Jesus answered them, 'Be careful that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, `I am the Christ,` and will lead many astray. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you aren't troubled, for all this must happen, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there will be famines, plagues, and earthquakes in various places. But all these things are the beginning of birth pains.
...Then they will deliver you up to oppression, and will kill you. You will be hated by all of the nations for my name's sake. Then will many stumble, and will deliver up one another, and will hate one another. Many false prophets will arise, and will lead many astray. Because iniquity will be multiplied, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end, the same will be saved. This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world for a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.' " (Mat 24:3-14) wev
This "Man From S.A.T.A.N." is coming! Make no mistake about that! He is the Antichrist. His entire purpose is to lead as many humans as is possible AWAY from an eternal reward, to deprive our God of as many souls as he can. Remember, Satan is not stupid. He can read the Bible as well as any of us can. He knows that he will lose, in the end. His goal is keeping YOU out of heaven! Making fun of believers is just one of his many tools to convince us that we don't need God, His grace, or His Word. Read on...
..."Give no belief to false words: because there will first be a falling away from the faith, and the revelation of the man of sin, the son of destruction, Who puts himself against all authority, lifting himself up over all which is named God or is given worship; so that he takes his seat in the Temple of God, putting himself forward as God. Have you no memory of what I said when I was with you, giving you word of these things? And now it is clear to you what is keeping back his revelation till the time comes for him to be seen. For the secret of evil is even now at work: but there is one who is keeping back the evil till he is taken out of the way. And then will come the revelation of that evil one, whom the Lord Jesus will put to death with the breath of his mouth, and give to destruction by the revelation of his coming; Even the one whose coming is marked by the working of Satan, with all power and signs and false wonders, And with every deceit of wrongdoing among those whose fate is destruction; because they were quite without that love of the true faith by which they might have salvation. And for this cause, God will give them up to the power of deceit and they will put their faith in what is false: So that they all may be judged, who had no faith in what is true, but took pleasure in evil." (2 Thes 2:3-12) bev
"False words," we certainly hear enough of these, don't we? Sadly, people are already "falling away from the faith" in incredible numbers, and Satan is encouraging them to do so. All who claim to be able to "better determine" what is needed in today's society have already accepted the Devil's influence with open arms. Satan is, right now, awaiting the "catching up" that is mentioned in Thessalonians, often called the "rapture."
..."But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord."
(1 Thes 4:13-17) mkj
Why would Satan await this rapture of Christians? Because, at that time, he will have no opposition to his plans to steal as many souls as he can from God. In his efforts to thwart The Father, he does have many assistants. We call them "antichrists," with a lower-case "a." These followers of Satan are everywhere in our world today. Many are even active in churches across America and the world. If you ever hear a preacher, (priest, deacon, bishop, elder, or whatever) say something that just does not seem biblical, get out your Bible and check it out. If you discover that the Bible says something very different from that which was claimed by your preacher, there is a strong possibility that he IS a lower-case antichrist! Run! Do not just walk away. Try to show everyone your reasons why you have a problem with that "preacher," but remember that satanic influence is pervasive and far-reaching. Many will choose to NOT believe you. Others will dismiss it as nonsense. Keep reading...
..."Because a number of false teachers have gone out into the world, who do not give witness that Jesus Christ came in the flesh. Such a one is a false teacher and Antichrist. Keep watch over yourselves, so that you do not make our work of no effect, but may get your full reward. Anyone who goes on and does not keep to the teaching of Christ, has not God: he who keeps to the teaching has the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you not having this teaching, do not take him into your house or give him words of love: For he who gives him words of love has a part in his evil works."
(2 John 2:7-11) bev
Those who do "not keep to the teaching of Christ," are doing Satan's work, and are "antichrists," despite whatever they claim their position within any church might happen to be. Do not be deceived! There are MANY agents in the employ of "The Man From S.A.T.A.N." Their stated goal is pry you away from God by any means. Don't let them guide you to the wide, easy path to hell. Get dressed in the "armor of God." Protect yourself and give aid to those you care about. The spread the Word.
God is counting on YOU!
Today, organizations within our own country are the cause of dangers that far outreach anything even dreamed of when this show aired. A cursory reading of the Bible shows us that preparation is being made for the Antichrist to take the scene. Following the lead of the previously mentioned TV show, I feel we could simply call him, "The Man From S.A.T.A.N."
Resistance to the acceptance of the Bible's prophecy is widespread, and intensifying at a fearsome rate. Remember that biblical prophecy is history written in advance. Therefore, Jesus' words (here) are more than just historically accurate; He is there, now, while these things are happening.
..."As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, 'What is the sign of your coming, and of the end of the world?' Jesus answered them, 'Be careful that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, `I am the Christ,` and will lead many astray. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you aren't troubled, for all this must happen, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there will be famines, plagues, and earthquakes in various places. But all these things are the beginning of birth pains.
...Then they will deliver you up to oppression, and will kill you. You will be hated by all of the nations for my name's sake. Then will many stumble, and will deliver up one another, and will hate one another. Many false prophets will arise, and will lead many astray. Because iniquity will be multiplied, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end, the same will be saved. This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world for a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.' " (Mat 24:3-14) wev
This "Man From S.A.T.A.N." is coming! Make no mistake about that! He is the Antichrist. His entire purpose is to lead as many humans as is possible AWAY from an eternal reward, to deprive our God of as many souls as he can. Remember, Satan is not stupid. He can read the Bible as well as any of us can. He knows that he will lose, in the end. His goal is keeping YOU out of heaven! Making fun of believers is just one of his many tools to convince us that we don't need God, His grace, or His Word. Read on...
..."Give no belief to false words: because there will first be a falling away from the faith, and the revelation of the man of sin, the son of destruction, Who puts himself against all authority, lifting himself up over all which is named God or is given worship; so that he takes his seat in the Temple of God, putting himself forward as God. Have you no memory of what I said when I was with you, giving you word of these things? And now it is clear to you what is keeping back his revelation till the time comes for him to be seen. For the secret of evil is even now at work: but there is one who is keeping back the evil till he is taken out of the way. And then will come the revelation of that evil one, whom the Lord Jesus will put to death with the breath of his mouth, and give to destruction by the revelation of his coming; Even the one whose coming is marked by the working of Satan, with all power and signs and false wonders, And with every deceit of wrongdoing among those whose fate is destruction; because they were quite without that love of the true faith by which they might have salvation. And for this cause, God will give them up to the power of deceit and they will put their faith in what is false: So that they all may be judged, who had no faith in what is true, but took pleasure in evil." (2 Thes 2:3-12) bev
"False words," we certainly hear enough of these, don't we? Sadly, people are already "falling away from the faith" in incredible numbers, and Satan is encouraging them to do so. All who claim to be able to "better determine" what is needed in today's society have already accepted the Devil's influence with open arms. Satan is, right now, awaiting the "catching up" that is mentioned in Thessalonians, often called the "rapture."
..."But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord."
(1 Thes 4:13-17) mkj
Why would Satan await this rapture of Christians? Because, at that time, he will have no opposition to his plans to steal as many souls as he can from God. In his efforts to thwart The Father, he does have many assistants. We call them "antichrists," with a lower-case "a." These followers of Satan are everywhere in our world today. Many are even active in churches across America and the world. If you ever hear a preacher, (priest, deacon, bishop, elder, or whatever) say something that just does not seem biblical, get out your Bible and check it out. If you discover that the Bible says something very different from that which was claimed by your preacher, there is a strong possibility that he IS a lower-case antichrist! Run! Do not just walk away. Try to show everyone your reasons why you have a problem with that "preacher," but remember that satanic influence is pervasive and far-reaching. Many will choose to NOT believe you. Others will dismiss it as nonsense. Keep reading...
..."Because a number of false teachers have gone out into the world, who do not give witness that Jesus Christ came in the flesh. Such a one is a false teacher and Antichrist. Keep watch over yourselves, so that you do not make our work of no effect, but may get your full reward. Anyone who goes on and does not keep to the teaching of Christ, has not God: he who keeps to the teaching has the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you not having this teaching, do not take him into your house or give him words of love: For he who gives him words of love has a part in his evil works."
(2 John 2:7-11) bev
Those who do "not keep to the teaching of Christ," are doing Satan's work, and are "antichrists," despite whatever they claim their position within any church might happen to be. Do not be deceived! There are MANY agents in the employ of "The Man From S.A.T.A.N." Their stated goal is pry you away from God by any means. Don't let them guide you to the wide, easy path to hell. Get dressed in the "armor of God." Protect yourself and give aid to those you care about. The spread the Word.
God is counting on YOU!
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Joel - An Amazing Prophet!
Prophecy has always inspired and amazed me. We often see it as events that will happen in the distant future, but for God, all time is NOW! Past, present and future are definitions we apply to things that have occurred, are happening now, and are yet to come. Please understand, we are incredibly limited in our perspective, God is not.
Many people try to maintain that prophecy is merely speculation. Satan supports these misled individuals in their error. The devil hates God, hates us, and wants us all to be condemned to perdition. He wants you to NOT believe the prophets. He wants you to reject salvation. Why? Because you CAN go to heaven, to be with God, but Lucifer CANNOT!
These excepts are from the Living Bible. Feel free to compare them with your own preferred biblical version.
..."...I will pour out my Spirit upon all of you! Your sons and daughters will prophesy; your old men will dream dreams, and your young men will see visions. And I will pour out my Spirit even on your slaves, men and women alike, and put strange symbols in the earth and sky - blood and fires and pillars of smoke.
...The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the great and terrible Day of the Lord shall come.
...Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved; even in Jerusalem some will escape, just as the Lord has promised, for He has chosen some to survive." (Joel 2:28b-32) tlb
Think about it! Children and young adults will begin to prophesy. Older individuals will begin to have disturbing dreams. People will have visions that will probably scare everyone who hears of these things! Those who are in extreme bottom end, financially speaking, will hear the call of God! These are those who usually cannot even afford the time to attend church, and yet, they WILL become vocal in their efforts to spread God's Word!
Many strange and disturbing things will happen, and people will probably try to attribute these events to space aliens, global warming, etc.
But, notice what is said next, "Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved." It simply cannot get any easier than this! Try it on for size! "God, I know you sent your Son to die for me, and in my place! I could NEVER begin to deserve this! Thank-you for this awesome gift!" Then, get out and tell the world! Don't wait! Even a few seconds from now might be too late!
..."I will gather the armies of the world into the 'Valley Where Jehovah Judges' and punish them for harming my people, for scattering my inheritance among the nations and dividing up my land." (Joel 3:2) tlb
The Valley Where Jehovah Judges is also called the Valley of Jehoshaphat, and you've probably heard it that way before. This will occur at the end of the Tribulation, so you can guess what their "punishment" will be. Total opposition to God is NOT something that might look good on a resume or better your station in life!
..."Multitudes, multitudes waiting in the valley for the verdict of their doom! For the Day of the Lord is near, in the Valley of Judgement.
...The sun and the moon will be darkened and the stars withdraw their light. The Lord shouts from his temple in Jerusalem and the earth and the sky begin to shake. But to his people Israel, the Lord will be very gentle. He is their Refuge and Strength.
...Then you shall know at last that I am the Lord your God in Zion, my holy mountain. Jerusalem shall be mine forever; the time will come when no foreign armies will pass through her any more.
...Sweet wine will drip from the mountains, and the hills shall flow with milk. Water will fill the dry stream beds of Judah, and a fountain will burst forth from the temple of the Lord to water Acacia Valley.
...Egypt will be destroyed, and Edom too, because of their violence against the Jews, for they killed innocent people in those nations.
...But Israel will prosper forever, and Jerusalem will thrive as generations pass.
...For I will avenge the blood of my people; I will not clear their oppressors of guilt. for my home is in Jerusalem with my people." (Joel 3:14-21) tlb
God has already seen the future, and it SHALL be as He has said! We, who are Christians, have become a part of God's people by virtue of our having been "adopted" by our salvation, courtesy of Jesus Christ. We must do our part to get the Word spread to all people. Remember Peter's words, "But don't forget this, dear friends, that a day or a thousand years from now is like tomorrow to the Lord. He isn't really being slow about his promised return, even though it sometimes seems that way. But he is waiting, for the good reason that he is not willing that any should perish, and he is giving more time for sinners to repent." (2 Pet 3:8-9) tlb
Since God does NOT want any to perish, then who are we to NOT spread His Word? Do your part! Be a witness! You, too, can be a "lifesaver!" Make God proud!
Someday soon, we will all rejoice together, in Paradise!
Many people try to maintain that prophecy is merely speculation. Satan supports these misled individuals in their error. The devil hates God, hates us, and wants us all to be condemned to perdition. He wants you to NOT believe the prophets. He wants you to reject salvation. Why? Because you CAN go to heaven, to be with God, but Lucifer CANNOT!
These excepts are from the Living Bible. Feel free to compare them with your own preferred biblical version.
..."...I will pour out my Spirit upon all of you! Your sons and daughters will prophesy; your old men will dream dreams, and your young men will see visions. And I will pour out my Spirit even on your slaves, men and women alike, and put strange symbols in the earth and sky - blood and fires and pillars of smoke.
...The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the great and terrible Day of the Lord shall come.
...Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved; even in Jerusalem some will escape, just as the Lord has promised, for He has chosen some to survive." (Joel 2:28b-32) tlb
Think about it! Children and young adults will begin to prophesy. Older individuals will begin to have disturbing dreams. People will have visions that will probably scare everyone who hears of these things! Those who are in extreme bottom end, financially speaking, will hear the call of God! These are those who usually cannot even afford the time to attend church, and yet, they WILL become vocal in their efforts to spread God's Word!
Many strange and disturbing things will happen, and people will probably try to attribute these events to space aliens, global warming, etc.
But, notice what is said next, "Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved." It simply cannot get any easier than this! Try it on for size! "God, I know you sent your Son to die for me, and in my place! I could NEVER begin to deserve this! Thank-you for this awesome gift!" Then, get out and tell the world! Don't wait! Even a few seconds from now might be too late!
..."I will gather the armies of the world into the 'Valley Where Jehovah Judges' and punish them for harming my people, for scattering my inheritance among the nations and dividing up my land." (Joel 3:2) tlb
The Valley Where Jehovah Judges is also called the Valley of Jehoshaphat, and you've probably heard it that way before. This will occur at the end of the Tribulation, so you can guess what their "punishment" will be. Total opposition to God is NOT something that might look good on a resume or better your station in life!
..."Multitudes, multitudes waiting in the valley for the verdict of their doom! For the Day of the Lord is near, in the Valley of Judgement.
...The sun and the moon will be darkened and the stars withdraw their light. The Lord shouts from his temple in Jerusalem and the earth and the sky begin to shake. But to his people Israel, the Lord will be very gentle. He is their Refuge and Strength.
...Then you shall know at last that I am the Lord your God in Zion, my holy mountain. Jerusalem shall be mine forever; the time will come when no foreign armies will pass through her any more.
...Sweet wine will drip from the mountains, and the hills shall flow with milk. Water will fill the dry stream beds of Judah, and a fountain will burst forth from the temple of the Lord to water Acacia Valley.
...Egypt will be destroyed, and Edom too, because of their violence against the Jews, for they killed innocent people in those nations.
...But Israel will prosper forever, and Jerusalem will thrive as generations pass.
...For I will avenge the blood of my people; I will not clear their oppressors of guilt. for my home is in Jerusalem with my people." (Joel 3:14-21) tlb
God has already seen the future, and it SHALL be as He has said! We, who are Christians, have become a part of God's people by virtue of our having been "adopted" by our salvation, courtesy of Jesus Christ. We must do our part to get the Word spread to all people. Remember Peter's words, "But don't forget this, dear friends, that a day or a thousand years from now is like tomorrow to the Lord. He isn't really being slow about his promised return, even though it sometimes seems that way. But he is waiting, for the good reason that he is not willing that any should perish, and he is giving more time for sinners to repent." (2 Pet 3:8-9) tlb
Since God does NOT want any to perish, then who are we to NOT spread His Word? Do your part! Be a witness! You, too, can be a "lifesaver!" Make God proud!
Someday soon, we will all rejoice together, in Paradise!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Beast - What Beast?
"Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which Jehovah God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of any tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the serpent, Of the fruit of the trees of the garden we may eat: but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as God, knowing good and evil." (Gen 3:1-5)asv
The serpent here is Satan. "Any beast of the field" means animals, but it is interesting that the term "beast" will have a completely different meaning in Revelation.
"And they said one to another, Behold, there comes that dreamer! And now come and let us kill him, and cast him into one of the pits, and we will say, An evil beast has devoured him; and we will see what becomes of his dreams." (Gen 37:19-20)dar
In this reference, the term beast is conjectural, as Joseph's brothers plan to murder him, and try to pin the blame on wild animals.
There are many Old Testament references to "beast," but they still mean animals. Later we will see possible inferences of what is yet to come.
"And when Paul had gathered together a bundle of sticks, and had laid them on the fire, a viper coming out of the heat, fastened on his hand. And when the barbarians saw the beast hanging on his hand, they said one to another: Undoubtedly this man is a murderer, who though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance doth not suffer him to live. And he indeed shaking off the beast into the fire, suffered no harm. But they supposed that he would begin to swell up, and that he would suddenly fall down and die. But expecting long, and seeing that there came no harm to him, changing their minds, they said, that he was a god."
(Acts 28:3-6)drv
The word "beast" here continues to mean animal, but note that merely the presence of this "beast" causes people to begin expecting a false god. The forces of Satan are already looking toward the future! Worse is yet to come.
"It is for discipline that you endure. God deals with you as with sons, for what son is there whom his father doesn't discipline? But if you are without discipline, whereof all have been made partakers, then are you illegitimate, and not sons. Furthermore, we had the fathers of our flesh to chasten us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much rather be in subjection to the Father of spirits, and live? For they indeed, for a few days, punished us as seemed good to them; but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness. All chastening seems for the present to be not joyous but grievous; yet afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been exercised thereby. Therefore, lift up the hands that hang down and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, that that which is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed. Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no man will see the Lord, looking carefully lest there be any man who falls short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby the many be defiled; lest there be any sexually immoral person, or profane person, as Esau, who sold his birthright for one meal. For you know that even when he afterward desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for a change of mind though he sought it diligently with tears. For you have not come to a mountain that might be touched, and that burned with fire, and to blackness, darkness, tempest, the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which those who heard it begged that not one more word should be spoken to them, for they could not stand that which was enjoined, 'If even a animal touch the mountain, it will be stoned;' and so fearful was the appearance, that Moses said, 'I am terrified and trembling.' But you have come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable hosts of angels, to the general assembly and assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, to God, the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better than that of Abel. See that you don't refuse him who speaks. For if they didn't escape when they refused him who warned on the Earth, how much more will we not escape who turn away from him who warns from heaven, whose voice shook the earth, then, but now he has promised, saying, 'Yet once more will I shake not only the earth, but also the heavens.' " (Heb 12:7-26)web
Who needs a mediator? Only one charged with a crime. Is there any one among us who is without blame? Please notice that God says it is important for us to be disciplined as His children because those without discipline are illegitimate, and are NOT His children! Being punished for our misdeeds does NOT give Him joy, but returning to His way does!
We are warned; Do not be bitter, immoral or profane.
Today's world does not seem to pay heed to this warning at all! Look around you. Outside of Christian society, foulness, wanton sexuality and general meanness of spirit prevail everywhere.
So, who is the "animal" (or beast) who will attempt to touch and conquer Mount Zion?
"But the court, which is without the temple, cast out, and measure it not: because it is given unto the Gentiles, and the holy city they shall tread under foot two and forty months: And I will give unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred sixty days, clothed in sackcloth. These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks, that stand before the Lord of the earth. And if any man will hurt them, fire shall come out of their mouths, and shall devour their enemies. And if any man will hurt them, in this manner must he be slain. These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and they have power over waters to turn them into blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues as often as they will. And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast, that ascendeth out of the abyss, shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them." (Rev 11:2-7)drv
Okay, there will be two "preachers" who will give testimony and prophecy for forty-two months. They cannot be harmed until that time has passed, the "beast" will kill them. But, who is this "beast" who comes up out of the abyss?
"Then I stood on the sand of the sea. I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads. On his horns were ten crowns, and on his heads, blasphemous names. The beast which I saw was like a leopard, and his feet were like those of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority. One of his heads looked like it had been wounded fatally. His fatal wound was healed, and the whole earth marveled at the beast. They worshipped the dragon, because he gave his authority to the beast, and they worshipped the beast, saying, 'Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?' A mouth speaking great things and blasphemy was given to him. Authority to continue for forty-two months was given to him. He opened his mouth for blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tent, those who dwell in heaven. It was given to him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them. Authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation was given to him. All who dwell on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been killed. If anyone has an ear, let him hear." (Rev 13:1-9)web
It seems this "beast" will be killed mid-way through the Tribulation, but will be restored to life. Then, for the next forty-two months, he will declare war upon all who follow Christ. He will be in charge of everyone who is not Christian. We are reminded to pay attention to what God has spoken.
"And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name." (Rev 13:11-17)kjv
This "second beast" is the dead beast, currently indwelt by Satan! He will fool many into thinking he is divine. All will be made to suffer.
"A mysterious caption was written on her forehead: 'Babylon the Great, Mother of Prostitutes and Idol Worship Everywhere around the World.' I could see that she was drunk - drunk with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus she had killed. I stared at her in horror. 'Why are you so surprised?' the angel asked. 'I'll tell you who she is and what the animal she is riding represents. He was alive but isn't now. And yet, soon he will come up out of the bottomless pit and go to eternal destruction; and the people of the earth, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life before the world began, will be dumbfounded at his reappearance after being dead.' " (Rev 17:5-8)tlb
Babylon the Great is the home, and center of government for, the "beast." Have you figured out just who he is, yet?
"These have one design: and their strength and power they shall deliver to the beast. These shall fight with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them, because he is Lord of lords, and King of kings, and they that are with him are called, and elect, and faithful. And he said to me: The waters which thou sawest, where the harlot sitteth, are peoples, and nations, and tongues. And the ten horns which thou sawest in the beast: these shall hate the harlot, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and shall burn her with fire. For God hath given into their hearts to do that which pleaseth him: that they give their kingdom to the beast, till the words of God be fulfilled. And the woman which thou sawest, is the great city, which hath kingdom over the kings of the earth."
(Rev 17:13-18)drv
A lot of Revelation is confusing, at least it is to us now. Basically, what is said here is that the forces of evil (Satan's armies) will array themselves against the Lamb of God (Jesus), and lose everything. What is incredible is that these satanic armies are doing God's will, to fulfill all that has be foretold.
Final score - God wins, Satan loses!
So, who is this "beast," anyway? We call him the Antichrist. The probability is very large that he is alive today, working to establish himself into a position of power. From that point, he will be ready to jump into action for his master, Satan, when the opportunity arises.
Where's the beast?
He's out there, waiting, watching, planning...
Stay alert and be ready!
The serpent here is Satan. "Any beast of the field" means animals, but it is interesting that the term "beast" will have a completely different meaning in Revelation.
"And they said one to another, Behold, there comes that dreamer! And now come and let us kill him, and cast him into one of the pits, and we will say, An evil beast has devoured him; and we will see what becomes of his dreams." (Gen 37:19-20)dar
In this reference, the term beast is conjectural, as Joseph's brothers plan to murder him, and try to pin the blame on wild animals.
There are many Old Testament references to "beast," but they still mean animals. Later we will see possible inferences of what is yet to come.
"And when Paul had gathered together a bundle of sticks, and had laid them on the fire, a viper coming out of the heat, fastened on his hand. And when the barbarians saw the beast hanging on his hand, they said one to another: Undoubtedly this man is a murderer, who though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance doth not suffer him to live. And he indeed shaking off the beast into the fire, suffered no harm. But they supposed that he would begin to swell up, and that he would suddenly fall down and die. But expecting long, and seeing that there came no harm to him, changing their minds, they said, that he was a god."
(Acts 28:3-6)drv
The word "beast" here continues to mean animal, but note that merely the presence of this "beast" causes people to begin expecting a false god. The forces of Satan are already looking toward the future! Worse is yet to come.
"It is for discipline that you endure. God deals with you as with sons, for what son is there whom his father doesn't discipline? But if you are without discipline, whereof all have been made partakers, then are you illegitimate, and not sons. Furthermore, we had the fathers of our flesh to chasten us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much rather be in subjection to the Father of spirits, and live? For they indeed, for a few days, punished us as seemed good to them; but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness. All chastening seems for the present to be not joyous but grievous; yet afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been exercised thereby. Therefore, lift up the hands that hang down and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, that that which is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed. Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no man will see the Lord, looking carefully lest there be any man who falls short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby the many be defiled; lest there be any sexually immoral person, or profane person, as Esau, who sold his birthright for one meal. For you know that even when he afterward desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for a change of mind though he sought it diligently with tears. For you have not come to a mountain that might be touched, and that burned with fire, and to blackness, darkness, tempest, the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which those who heard it begged that not one more word should be spoken to them, for they could not stand that which was enjoined, 'If even a animal touch the mountain, it will be stoned;' and so fearful was the appearance, that Moses said, 'I am terrified and trembling.' But you have come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable hosts of angels, to the general assembly and assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, to God, the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better than that of Abel. See that you don't refuse him who speaks. For if they didn't escape when they refused him who warned on the Earth, how much more will we not escape who turn away from him who warns from heaven, whose voice shook the earth, then, but now he has promised, saying, 'Yet once more will I shake not only the earth, but also the heavens.' " (Heb 12:7-26)web
Who needs a mediator? Only one charged with a crime. Is there any one among us who is without blame? Please notice that God says it is important for us to be disciplined as His children because those without discipline are illegitimate, and are NOT His children! Being punished for our misdeeds does NOT give Him joy, but returning to His way does!
We are warned; Do not be bitter, immoral or profane.
Today's world does not seem to pay heed to this warning at all! Look around you. Outside of Christian society, foulness, wanton sexuality and general meanness of spirit prevail everywhere.
So, who is the "animal" (or beast) who will attempt to touch and conquer Mount Zion?
"But the court, which is without the temple, cast out, and measure it not: because it is given unto the Gentiles, and the holy city they shall tread under foot two and forty months: And I will give unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred sixty days, clothed in sackcloth. These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks, that stand before the Lord of the earth. And if any man will hurt them, fire shall come out of their mouths, and shall devour their enemies. And if any man will hurt them, in this manner must he be slain. These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and they have power over waters to turn them into blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues as often as they will. And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast, that ascendeth out of the abyss, shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them." (Rev 11:2-7)drv
Okay, there will be two "preachers" who will give testimony and prophecy for forty-two months. They cannot be harmed until that time has passed, the "beast" will kill them. But, who is this "beast" who comes up out of the abyss?
"Then I stood on the sand of the sea. I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads. On his horns were ten crowns, and on his heads, blasphemous names. The beast which I saw was like a leopard, and his feet were like those of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority. One of his heads looked like it had been wounded fatally. His fatal wound was healed, and the whole earth marveled at the beast. They worshipped the dragon, because he gave his authority to the beast, and they worshipped the beast, saying, 'Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?' A mouth speaking great things and blasphemy was given to him. Authority to continue for forty-two months was given to him. He opened his mouth for blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tent, those who dwell in heaven. It was given to him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them. Authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation was given to him. All who dwell on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been killed. If anyone has an ear, let him hear." (Rev 13:1-9)web
It seems this "beast" will be killed mid-way through the Tribulation, but will be restored to life. Then, for the next forty-two months, he will declare war upon all who follow Christ. He will be in charge of everyone who is not Christian. We are reminded to pay attention to what God has spoken.
"And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name." (Rev 13:11-17)kjv
This "second beast" is the dead beast, currently indwelt by Satan! He will fool many into thinking he is divine. All will be made to suffer.
"A mysterious caption was written on her forehead: 'Babylon the Great, Mother of Prostitutes and Idol Worship Everywhere around the World.' I could see that she was drunk - drunk with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus she had killed. I stared at her in horror. 'Why are you so surprised?' the angel asked. 'I'll tell you who she is and what the animal she is riding represents. He was alive but isn't now. And yet, soon he will come up out of the bottomless pit and go to eternal destruction; and the people of the earth, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life before the world began, will be dumbfounded at his reappearance after being dead.' " (Rev 17:5-8)tlb
Babylon the Great is the home, and center of government for, the "beast." Have you figured out just who he is, yet?
"These have one design: and their strength and power they shall deliver to the beast. These shall fight with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them, because he is Lord of lords, and King of kings, and they that are with him are called, and elect, and faithful. And he said to me: The waters which thou sawest, where the harlot sitteth, are peoples, and nations, and tongues. And the ten horns which thou sawest in the beast: these shall hate the harlot, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and shall burn her with fire. For God hath given into their hearts to do that which pleaseth him: that they give their kingdom to the beast, till the words of God be fulfilled. And the woman which thou sawest, is the great city, which hath kingdom over the kings of the earth."
(Rev 17:13-18)drv
A lot of Revelation is confusing, at least it is to us now. Basically, what is said here is that the forces of evil (Satan's armies) will array themselves against the Lamb of God (Jesus), and lose everything. What is incredible is that these satanic armies are doing God's will, to fulfill all that has be foretold.
Final score - God wins, Satan loses!
So, who is this "beast," anyway? We call him the Antichrist. The probability is very large that he is alive today, working to establish himself into a position of power. From that point, he will be ready to jump into action for his master, Satan, when the opportunity arises.
Where's the beast?
He's out there, waiting, watching, planning...
Stay alert and be ready!
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Tomorrow's Headlines - Today!
.
I'm sure you know someone who will never make any move without checking their horoscope first. Do you ever wonder why it is so important to them?
They just want reassurance that tomorrow is not bringing disaster, and that they've made the right choice from all that are available.
God wants us to be sufficiently informed so that we always choose wisely in every situation. The trouble is, most people are not interested in listening to God. They don't see Him as being relevant to "today's world." So, for these folks (and the rest of us, too) He provides little "reminders" that we should start paying more attention. Things like earthquakes, tornados, volcanoes & floods are "minor" nudges to help us remember that He is in charge, and that He loves us enough to want us to escape the coming "Great Terror."
Do most people listen? Sadly, no...
Think about this from a realistic point of view, if you were certain that the price of gas was going up fifty cents a gallon tomorrow, wouldn't you try to fill up every vehicle and spare gas can you have today? Of course you would!
The same holds true, even when it involves planning trips to avoid congested areas and those where traffic accidents are more probable. You'd try to avoid exposing your family to high-crime areas when vacationing, too... right?
Safety first, especially where the family is concerned!
So, why don't we pay as much heed to God's warnings?
He made us. He is our Father in a way that no parent can ever be! So, why don't we pay more attention when He warns us of what's coming?
My dad had an interesting way of dealing with misbehavior. Generally, he'd send the miscreant outside to cut the switch with which you were to be punished. If you came back with one that was too small, he'd send you back out for another, until one that was satisfactory was presented. The rejected switches were used first, then the real switch came into play.
Today, it is considered that spankings are not acceptable, but just look at the dangerous society that this attitude has caused. A parent that truly cares about his child will administer the punishment deserved by the situation. Lack of proper punishment is one of the causes of society's failure! "My child, don't ignore it when the Lord disciplines you. For the Lord corrects those He loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights." (Prov 3:11-12)nlt -and- "To discipline and reprimand a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child." (Prov 29:15)nlt
Notice that the Bible never says to beat the stuffing out of kids who act up, just correct them enough that they grow up to be good people.
God gives us little "spanks" every now and then. Some listen... a lot don't want to, they act just like little kids who have gotten away with demanding their own way, for their entire lives. Now, they want God to "toe the line" and give them what they want. So, God sends them a slightly bigger switch...
"Spare the rod and spoil the child," who hasn't heard that expression? "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him." (Prov 22:15)kjv
God does not want even one of us to turn away from Him. The other choice is to become perpetual "barbecoa" in Satan's pit!
Listen to tomorrow's headlines!
"For this is what the Lord Almighty says: In just a little while I will again shake the heavens and the earth. I will shake the oceans and the dry land, too. I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will come to this temple. I will fill this place with glory, says the Lord Almighty." (Hag 2:6-7) nlt
How many earthquakes have occurred recently?
(By the way, you are the treasures that God wants in His temple.)
Read tomorrow's news.
Act on it! Now, while there is still time!
Till we meet soon, in His Temple, in Paradise!
I'm sure you know someone who will never make any move without checking their horoscope first. Do you ever wonder why it is so important to them?
They just want reassurance that tomorrow is not bringing disaster, and that they've made the right choice from all that are available.
God wants us to be sufficiently informed so that we always choose wisely in every situation. The trouble is, most people are not interested in listening to God. They don't see Him as being relevant to "today's world." So, for these folks (and the rest of us, too) He provides little "reminders" that we should start paying more attention. Things like earthquakes, tornados, volcanoes & floods are "minor" nudges to help us remember that He is in charge, and that He loves us enough to want us to escape the coming "Great Terror."
Do most people listen? Sadly, no...
Think about this from a realistic point of view, if you were certain that the price of gas was going up fifty cents a gallon tomorrow, wouldn't you try to fill up every vehicle and spare gas can you have today? Of course you would!
The same holds true, even when it involves planning trips to avoid congested areas and those where traffic accidents are more probable. You'd try to avoid exposing your family to high-crime areas when vacationing, too... right?
Safety first, especially where the family is concerned!
So, why don't we pay as much heed to God's warnings?
He made us. He is our Father in a way that no parent can ever be! So, why don't we pay more attention when He warns us of what's coming?
My dad had an interesting way of dealing with misbehavior. Generally, he'd send the miscreant outside to cut the switch with which you were to be punished. If you came back with one that was too small, he'd send you back out for another, until one that was satisfactory was presented. The rejected switches were used first, then the real switch came into play.
Today, it is considered that spankings are not acceptable, but just look at the dangerous society that this attitude has caused. A parent that truly cares about his child will administer the punishment deserved by the situation. Lack of proper punishment is one of the causes of society's failure! "My child, don't ignore it when the Lord disciplines you. For the Lord corrects those He loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights." (Prov 3:11-12)nlt -and- "To discipline and reprimand a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child." (Prov 29:15)nlt
Notice that the Bible never says to beat the stuffing out of kids who act up, just correct them enough that they grow up to be good people.
God gives us little "spanks" every now and then. Some listen... a lot don't want to, they act just like little kids who have gotten away with demanding their own way, for their entire lives. Now, they want God to "toe the line" and give them what they want. So, God sends them a slightly bigger switch...
"Spare the rod and spoil the child," who hasn't heard that expression? "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him." (Prov 22:15)kjv
God does not want even one of us to turn away from Him. The other choice is to become perpetual "barbecoa" in Satan's pit!
Listen to tomorrow's headlines!
"For this is what the Lord Almighty says: In just a little while I will again shake the heavens and the earth. I will shake the oceans and the dry land, too. I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will come to this temple. I will fill this place with glory, says the Lord Almighty." (Hag 2:6-7) nlt
How many earthquakes have occurred recently?
(By the way, you are the treasures that God wants in His temple.)
Read tomorrow's news.
Act on it! Now, while there is still time!
Till we meet soon, in His Temple, in Paradise!
Friday, July 8, 2011
Do you believe in the coming tribulation?
... or, are you hoping it is only a "myth-take?"
A lot of people, and a lot of religions, hold that the tribulation, mentioned in the Bible, is merely an error in understanding. Some maintain that it is only symbolic. A surprisingly large number believe (hope?) that it is far away, into the distant future.
How do you feel about it?
Allow me to point out that NONE of the predictions in the Bible have EVER been proven to be false. Not one! In all of history, it has never happened. God sees the future, the present, the past... all are within His now.
Part of our problem here is that we experience time as a point-by-point travel along one line (our time-line). We cannot see even the very next instant of time, otherwise, we'd never be taken by surprise. Most of us are not too good at remembering the past, either. I know you've met folks who also didn't seem too aware of the present, you know, the ones whose permanent address seems to be "La-La land."
Since God invented time ("the evening, and the morning, were the first day." - remember?) why should we be so disbelieving that He sees the future?
Over and over, throughout the Bible, He has foretold of catastrophe, trying to get people to get their act together, and to get back on His page. All too often, He has gotten blamed for the very disaster that He said would come if folks didn't turn back to Him! I'm sure you know someone who blames cops for speeding tickets, its the same attitude problem. People have always wanted to "do their own thing" and "go their own way." Pretty much the same thing, isn't it?
See if this sounds a lot like our country today; "When the skies are shut and there is no rain because of our sins, and then we pray toward this Temple and claim You as our God, and turned from our sins because You have punished us, then listen from heaven and forgive the sins of your people, and teach them what is right; and send rain upon this land which You have given to Your people as their own property." (2 Chron 6:26-27)tlb
No, it wasn't written to us in our time, but, have you noticed that many people are praying for rain. God want us to turn back to Him in our time of need. There will always be those who say, "Big deal! There have always been droughts." They want only their own way.
In a similar way, what is coming for us has been predicted for quite some time.
"Sound the alarm in Jerusalem! Let the blast of the warning trumpet be heard upon my holy mountain! Let everyone tremble in fear, for the day of the Lord's judgement approaches!
"It is a day of darkness and gloom, of black clouds and thick darkness. What a mighty army! It covers the mountain like night! How great, how powerful these 'people' are! The likes of them have not been seen before, and never will again throughout the generations of the world! Fire goes before them and follows on every side! Ahead of them the land lies fair as Eden's garden in all its beauty, but they destroy it to the ground; not one thing escapes. They look like tiny horses, and they run as fast. Look at them leaping along the top of the mountain! Listen to the noise they make, like the rumbling of chariots, or the roar of fire sweeping across a field, and like a mighty army moving into battle.
"Fear grips the waiting people; their faces grow pale with fright. These 'soldiers' charge like infantry; they scale the walls like picked and trained commandos. Straight forward they march, never breaking ranks. They never crowd each other. Each is right in place. No weapon can stop them. They swarm upon the city; they run upon the walls; they climb up into the houses, coming like thieves through the windows. The earth quakes before them and the heavens tremble. The sun and moon are obscured and the stars are hid.
"The Lord leads them with a shout. This is His mighty army and they follow His orders. The day of the judgment of the Lord is an awesome, terrible thing. Who can endure it?" (Joel 2:1-11) tlb
"That is why the Lord says, 'Turn to Me now, while there is time! Give Me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don't tear your clothing in your grief; instead tear your hearts.' Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful. He is not easily angered. He is filled with kindness and is eager not to punish you." (Joel 2:12-13)nlt
"And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, Saying with a loud voice, 'Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.' " (Rev 14:6-7)kjv
I think it is important to take note that, the greater the calamity that we bring upon ourselves, the greater the prophecy God sends our way to get us back on the right path. If He didn't love us so much, He would not warn us that it was coming! Think about this, have you ever seen a portable sign on the side of the road that said, "Slow down! Speed trap ahead!" Of course not! Traffic laws exist, and enforcement is mandatory. You'll never see cops out on the corners of busy intersections carrying signs that read, "Drive slow or die in a horrible accident" either.
The difference? God wants to protect all of us! Civil laws exist to protect everyone from careless stupidities, as well as from evildoers. The Bible is not crammed full of "sin-limit" signs, either, just lots of warnings that sin has its consequences.
So, get your life in line with God's will. The end is coming!
...and wear your seat belt, we call it salvation!
A lot of people, and a lot of religions, hold that the tribulation, mentioned in the Bible, is merely an error in understanding. Some maintain that it is only symbolic. A surprisingly large number believe (hope?) that it is far away, into the distant future.
How do you feel about it?
Allow me to point out that NONE of the predictions in the Bible have EVER been proven to be false. Not one! In all of history, it has never happened. God sees the future, the present, the past... all are within His now.
Part of our problem here is that we experience time as a point-by-point travel along one line (our time-line). We cannot see even the very next instant of time, otherwise, we'd never be taken by surprise. Most of us are not too good at remembering the past, either. I know you've met folks who also didn't seem too aware of the present, you know, the ones whose permanent address seems to be "La-La land."
Since God invented time ("the evening, and the morning, were the first day." - remember?) why should we be so disbelieving that He sees the future?
Over and over, throughout the Bible, He has foretold of catastrophe, trying to get people to get their act together, and to get back on His page. All too often, He has gotten blamed for the very disaster that He said would come if folks didn't turn back to Him! I'm sure you know someone who blames cops for speeding tickets, its the same attitude problem. People have always wanted to "do their own thing" and "go their own way." Pretty much the same thing, isn't it?
See if this sounds a lot like our country today; "When the skies are shut and there is no rain because of our sins, and then we pray toward this Temple and claim You as our God, and turned from our sins because You have punished us, then listen from heaven and forgive the sins of your people, and teach them what is right; and send rain upon this land which You have given to Your people as their own property." (2 Chron 6:26-27)tlb
No, it wasn't written to us in our time, but, have you noticed that many people are praying for rain. God want us to turn back to Him in our time of need. There will always be those who say, "Big deal! There have always been droughts." They want only their own way.
In a similar way, what is coming for us has been predicted for quite some time.
"Sound the alarm in Jerusalem! Let the blast of the warning trumpet be heard upon my holy mountain! Let everyone tremble in fear, for the day of the Lord's judgement approaches!
"It is a day of darkness and gloom, of black clouds and thick darkness. What a mighty army! It covers the mountain like night! How great, how powerful these 'people' are! The likes of them have not been seen before, and never will again throughout the generations of the world! Fire goes before them and follows on every side! Ahead of them the land lies fair as Eden's garden in all its beauty, but they destroy it to the ground; not one thing escapes. They look like tiny horses, and they run as fast. Look at them leaping along the top of the mountain! Listen to the noise they make, like the rumbling of chariots, or the roar of fire sweeping across a field, and like a mighty army moving into battle.
"Fear grips the waiting people; their faces grow pale with fright. These 'soldiers' charge like infantry; they scale the walls like picked and trained commandos. Straight forward they march, never breaking ranks. They never crowd each other. Each is right in place. No weapon can stop them. They swarm upon the city; they run upon the walls; they climb up into the houses, coming like thieves through the windows. The earth quakes before them and the heavens tremble. The sun and moon are obscured and the stars are hid.
"The Lord leads them with a shout. This is His mighty army and they follow His orders. The day of the judgment of the Lord is an awesome, terrible thing. Who can endure it?" (Joel 2:1-11) tlb
"That is why the Lord says, 'Turn to Me now, while there is time! Give Me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don't tear your clothing in your grief; instead tear your hearts.' Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful. He is not easily angered. He is filled with kindness and is eager not to punish you." (Joel 2:12-13)nlt
"And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, Saying with a loud voice, 'Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.' " (Rev 14:6-7)kjv
I think it is important to take note that, the greater the calamity that we bring upon ourselves, the greater the prophecy God sends our way to get us back on the right path. If He didn't love us so much, He would not warn us that it was coming! Think about this, have you ever seen a portable sign on the side of the road that said, "Slow down! Speed trap ahead!" Of course not! Traffic laws exist, and enforcement is mandatory. You'll never see cops out on the corners of busy intersections carrying signs that read, "Drive slow or die in a horrible accident" either.
The difference? God wants to protect all of us! Civil laws exist to protect everyone from careless stupidities, as well as from evildoers. The Bible is not crammed full of "sin-limit" signs, either, just lots of warnings that sin has its consequences.
So, get your life in line with God's will. The end is coming!
...and wear your seat belt, we call it salvation!
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