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 tribulation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tribulation. 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!
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Can You Read the Future?
No, this isn't a trick question.
If you eat a certain restaurants, you are presented with a "fortune cookie" as you leave. Most newspapers have a horoscope section (though I've often wondered if it should be called the horror-scope). As you drive around, you'll see fortune teller's shops, here and there, and also palm-readers. Sometimes even practitioners of black-magic advertise their services.
Sometimes, many of us get tempted.
But what's worse, it seems that every young person in the world today believes (or wants to believe) in voodoo, reincarnation, ghosts and spirit inhabitation. As much as it horrifies the rest of us, there is a possible explanation in the Bible.
"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the LORD come. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call." Joel 2:28-32) kjv
Does this mean that all this horror-film stuff is for real? Thank heavens this is not generally the case. We know, however, that Satan will stop at nothing to discredit the Word of God. The prince of darkness has our world by the nose, and is leading us all astray. He is constantly perverting the reality that God has decreed. If enough of us fall for the devil's lies and deceptions, we will ignore the warnings of those inspired by God.
So, what is the answer?
Study God's Word. Prepare yourself for the coming tribulation, for it is a sure and certain thing. Listen to those who seem to spouting nonsense, some of them may be divinely inspired. Obviously, quite a few are not, but even those are God's children, and they will need to understand what is happening, and what to prepare for. You may be their one chance to hear of God's love for them.
Don't waste that chance.
Our Father is counting on you. Make Him proud!
See you soon, in Paradise!
If you eat a certain restaurants, you are presented with a "fortune cookie" as you leave. Most newspapers have a horoscope section (though I've often wondered if it should be called the horror-scope). As you drive around, you'll see fortune teller's shops, here and there, and also palm-readers. Sometimes even practitioners of black-magic advertise their services.
Sometimes, many of us get tempted.
But what's worse, it seems that every young person in the world today believes (or wants to believe) in voodoo, reincarnation, ghosts and spirit inhabitation. As much as it horrifies the rest of us, there is a possible explanation in the Bible.
"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the LORD come. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call." Joel 2:28-32) kjv
Does this mean that all this horror-film stuff is for real? Thank heavens this is not generally the case. We know, however, that Satan will stop at nothing to discredit the Word of God. The prince of darkness has our world by the nose, and is leading us all astray. He is constantly perverting the reality that God has decreed. If enough of us fall for the devil's lies and deceptions, we will ignore the warnings of those inspired by God.
So, what is the answer?
Study God's Word. Prepare yourself for the coming tribulation, for it is a sure and certain thing. Listen to those who seem to spouting nonsense, some of them may be divinely inspired. Obviously, quite a few are not, but even those are God's children, and they will need to understand what is happening, and what to prepare for. You may be their one chance to hear of God's love for them.
Don't waste that chance.
Our Father is counting on you. Make Him proud!
See you soon, 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!
Friday, September 16, 2011
Dictators - Precursors to the Antichrist
I read a lot, but I'm interested in most subjects. I guess I'm just about as eclectic in what I read as in the music I listen to. I have been reading two different books at the same time. One is "Caribbean" by James Michener. The other is "Talk of the Devil" by Riccardo Orizio. The first is a fictionalized retelling of historical events in the Caribbean Sea, the second is a collection of interviews with deposed dictators and/or their spouses.
At first glance you would not think they had too much in common. Michener has a tendency to focus too much on the "bawdy" details that help him sell his books, but detract somewhat from recognizing their historical accuracy. Orizio's book is mostly a "first-person" telling of his encounters with various despicable individuals.
Additionally, "Talk of the Devil" is fairly quick reading, but "Caribbean" is HUGE, more than 650 pages! In all honesty, were Michener to have written it simply as a history, it still would have been about half as long.
Both of these books cover the topic of dictatorships. Both somewhat humanize these individuals in such a manner that you can see that they thought what they were doing was needed at that time.
Does that make them right?
Throughout history there have been many more dictatorships than all other forms of government combined. Some few were relatively benign. Very few resulted in an improvement in the human condition.
As you might expect, most dictators were egotistical scoundrels of the first order.
Does the Bible speak of dictators?
"Woe to them that make wicked laws: and when they write, write injustice: To oppress the poor in judgment, and do violence to the cause of the humble of my people: that widows might be their prey, and that they might rob the fatherless." (Isa 10:1-2)drv
-and-
"So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter. Wherefore I praised the dead which are already dead more than the living which are yet alive. Yea, better is he than both they, which hath not yet been, who hath not seen the evil work that is done under the sun."
(Ecc 4:1-3)kjv
But, haven't dictators always been around?
"Now it happened on it certain day, that Joseph went into the house, and was doing some business without any man with him: And she catching the skirt of his garment, said: Lie with me. But he leaving the garment in her hand, fled, and went out. And when the woman saw the garment in her hands, and herself disregarded, She called to her the men of her house, and said to them: See, he hath brought in a Hebrew, to abuse us: he came in to me, to lie with me: and when I cried out, And he heard my voice, he left the garment that I held, and got him out. For a proof therefore of her fidelity, she kept the garment, and shewed it to her husband when he returned home: And said: The Hebrew servant, whom thou best brought, came to me to abuse me. And when he heard me cry, he left the garment which I held, and fled out. His master hearing these things, and giving too much credit to his wife's words, was very angry. And cast Joseph into the prison, where the king's prisoners were kept, and he was there shut up." (Gen 39:11-20)drv
Obviously, they have been here for quite some time.
"And the king hath done according to his will, and exalteth himself, and magnifieth himself against every god, and against the God of gods he speaketh wonderful things, and hath prospered till the indignation hath been completed, for that which is determined hath been done. And unto the God of his fathers he doth not attend, nor to the desire of women, yea, to any god he doth not attend, for against all he magnifieth himself." (Dan 11:36-37)ylt
There will never be a "good dictator," of that there cannot be any doubt. But, why have we had so many? Possibly more important, why would a nation, like ours, be gradually turning from a "government of the people, by the people, and for the people" to one that is increasingly dictatorial? Just overcoming the ingrained prejudices inherited from past despotism has taken hundreds of years!
Why give these advances up now? What foul influence is contaminating so many people?
Actually, I think a lot of it is to establish precedence for evil. That way, when the ultimate dictator, the Antichrist, takes over, there will be a massive majority that believe, "We've always had dictators. What's wrong with that?"
Look around you, today. How many times have you heard... "We've always had crime," or murder, or floods, or infidelity, or tornadoes, or disease, or wars, or inflation, or dishonest politicians (choose any). Dictators? Big deal! That's what they will say. We've always had dictators.
But, why? What is it about repetition that calms peoples' worries? Could this continuing tendency toward despotism have a satanic origin?
Please remember that Satan does know Scripture, and he does know people, as well. We like to feel we are comfortable with events as they transpire. We look at the weather, and say, "I expect rain." Cold, wind, heat, hurricanes, it doesn't really matter, we like to feel like WE are in charge. The devil plays us all for fools in these matters. Why else would people keep consulting fortune tellers or horoscopes?
So we say, "Hey, but I believe in God! I'm a Christian!"
God's Word says, "You believe that God is one. You do well. The demons also believe, and shudder." (Jas 2:19)web
You must constantly be aware that there are evil plans afoot. You must prepare for them, and assist others to reach an understanding of what God has said, and what the future holds. Above all, do not fall into the trap of trying to "pin God down" as to dates and times. Remember, "But of that day and hour no one knoweth, not the angels of heaven, but the Father alone." (Mat 24:36)drv
Salvation is NOT an insurance policy!
God does not want you to live an evil lifestyle, and then get saved "just in the nick of time." He wants your all!
Consider these words of Peter's. "Regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also, according to the wisdom given to him, wrote to you; as also in all of his letters, speaking in them of these things. In those are some things hard to be understood, which the ignorant and unsettled twist, as they do also to the other scriptures, to their own destruction." (2Pet 3:15-16)web
It isn't just the ignorant and unsettled who "twist" God's Word. One is coming who has made it his top priority to keep as many as possible from God's kingdom
.
Don't let Satan be your dictator!
At first glance you would not think they had too much in common. Michener has a tendency to focus too much on the "bawdy" details that help him sell his books, but detract somewhat from recognizing their historical accuracy. Orizio's book is mostly a "first-person" telling of his encounters with various despicable individuals.
Additionally, "Talk of the Devil" is fairly quick reading, but "Caribbean" is HUGE, more than 650 pages! In all honesty, were Michener to have written it simply as a history, it still would have been about half as long.
Both of these books cover the topic of dictatorships. Both somewhat humanize these individuals in such a manner that you can see that they thought what they were doing was needed at that time.
Does that make them right?
Throughout history there have been many more dictatorships than all other forms of government combined. Some few were relatively benign. Very few resulted in an improvement in the human condition.
As you might expect, most dictators were egotistical scoundrels of the first order.
Does the Bible speak of dictators?
"Woe to them that make wicked laws: and when they write, write injustice: To oppress the poor in judgment, and do violence to the cause of the humble of my people: that widows might be their prey, and that they might rob the fatherless." (Isa 10:1-2)drv
-and-
"So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter. Wherefore I praised the dead which are already dead more than the living which are yet alive. Yea, better is he than both they, which hath not yet been, who hath not seen the evil work that is done under the sun."
(Ecc 4:1-3)kjv
But, haven't dictators always been around?
"Now it happened on it certain day, that Joseph went into the house, and was doing some business without any man with him: And she catching the skirt of his garment, said: Lie with me. But he leaving the garment in her hand, fled, and went out. And when the woman saw the garment in her hands, and herself disregarded, She called to her the men of her house, and said to them: See, he hath brought in a Hebrew, to abuse us: he came in to me, to lie with me: and when I cried out, And he heard my voice, he left the garment that I held, and got him out. For a proof therefore of her fidelity, she kept the garment, and shewed it to her husband when he returned home: And said: The Hebrew servant, whom thou best brought, came to me to abuse me. And when he heard me cry, he left the garment which I held, and fled out. His master hearing these things, and giving too much credit to his wife's words, was very angry. And cast Joseph into the prison, where the king's prisoners were kept, and he was there shut up." (Gen 39:11-20)drv
Obviously, they have been here for quite some time.
"And the king hath done according to his will, and exalteth himself, and magnifieth himself against every god, and against the God of gods he speaketh wonderful things, and hath prospered till the indignation hath been completed, for that which is determined hath been done. And unto the God of his fathers he doth not attend, nor to the desire of women, yea, to any god he doth not attend, for against all he magnifieth himself." (Dan 11:36-37)ylt
There will never be a "good dictator," of that there cannot be any doubt. But, why have we had so many? Possibly more important, why would a nation, like ours, be gradually turning from a "government of the people, by the people, and for the people" to one that is increasingly dictatorial? Just overcoming the ingrained prejudices inherited from past despotism has taken hundreds of years!
Why give these advances up now? What foul influence is contaminating so many people?
Actually, I think a lot of it is to establish precedence for evil. That way, when the ultimate dictator, the Antichrist, takes over, there will be a massive majority that believe, "We've always had dictators. What's wrong with that?"
Look around you, today. How many times have you heard... "We've always had crime," or murder, or floods, or infidelity, or tornadoes, or disease, or wars, or inflation, or dishonest politicians (choose any). Dictators? Big deal! That's what they will say. We've always had dictators.
But, why? What is it about repetition that calms peoples' worries? Could this continuing tendency toward despotism have a satanic origin?
Please remember that Satan does know Scripture, and he does know people, as well. We like to feel we are comfortable with events as they transpire. We look at the weather, and say, "I expect rain." Cold, wind, heat, hurricanes, it doesn't really matter, we like to feel like WE are in charge. The devil plays us all for fools in these matters. Why else would people keep consulting fortune tellers or horoscopes?
So we say, "Hey, but I believe in God! I'm a Christian!"
God's Word says, "You believe that God is one. You do well. The demons also believe, and shudder." (Jas 2:19)web
You must constantly be aware that there are evil plans afoot. You must prepare for them, and assist others to reach an understanding of what God has said, and what the future holds. Above all, do not fall into the trap of trying to "pin God down" as to dates and times. Remember, "But of that day and hour no one knoweth, not the angels of heaven, but the Father alone." (Mat 24:36)drv
Salvation is NOT an insurance policy!
God does not want you to live an evil lifestyle, and then get saved "just in the nick of time." He wants your all!
Consider these words of Peter's. "Regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also, according to the wisdom given to him, wrote to you; as also in all of his letters, speaking in them of these things. In those are some things hard to be understood, which the ignorant and unsettled twist, as they do also to the other scriptures, to their own destruction." (2Pet 3:15-16)web
It isn't just the ignorant and unsettled who "twist" God's Word. One is coming who has made it his top priority to keep as many as possible from God's kingdom
.
Don't let Satan be your dictator!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Revelation churches - part 2
The next church mentioned in Revelation is the one in Smyrna. This city still exists today, but is now primarily Islamic.
"To the angel of the assembly in Smyrna write: The first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life says these things: I know your oppression, and your poverty (but you are rich), and the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews, and they are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Don't be afraid of the things which you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested; and you will have oppression for ten days. Be faithful to death, and I will give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies. He who overcomes won't be hurt by the second death."
(Rev 2:8-11)web
The "first and last" here is Jesus, of course.
He lets them know that He is aware of their lack of worldly riches, but He reminds them that their true riches are not of this world. He also warns them that they are to face imprisonment and torture at the hands of Satanists who pretend to be "the way to God." Jesus promises the crown of life for those who are willing to risk death for His sake. This risk is very real, even today. In many countries, around the world, you can be tortured, imprisoned and put to death for being Christian. This risk will only increase greatly after the start of the tribulation.
Believe me, God is very aware of those who pretend to be Christians in order to pervert His Word. The devil has many tools operating for him around the world. They are currently planning Satan's rise to power. Jesus warns us that we should not fear these foul puppets. They have no power, except in this world.
If you overcome evil in this world, and lose your life doing so,
you will not die the second death.
So, what is this "second death?"
It is the eternal death of the soul. Death of the body does not begin to compare. Even the most hideous death in this world will end sooner or later. Eternal damnation will not.
Many are asking if the passage above means that poverty is the only way to honor Christ's death for us. The answer is "of course not." We must simply not set such store for things in this world that we lose sight of what is really important. There is a quote whose source I no longer remember, that says, "Why trade that which you cannot afford to lose, for that which you are unable to keep?"
Few, who call themselves Christians today, are willing to actually place Jesus first in their lives. They will be rewarded. Be one of them, please...
The Crown of Life will look great on you!
"To the angel of the assembly in Smyrna write: The first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life says these things: I know your oppression, and your poverty (but you are rich), and the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews, and they are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Don't be afraid of the things which you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested; and you will have oppression for ten days. Be faithful to death, and I will give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies. He who overcomes won't be hurt by the second death."
(Rev 2:8-11)web
The "first and last" here is Jesus, of course.
He lets them know that He is aware of their lack of worldly riches, but He reminds them that their true riches are not of this world. He also warns them that they are to face imprisonment and torture at the hands of Satanists who pretend to be "the way to God." Jesus promises the crown of life for those who are willing to risk death for His sake. This risk is very real, even today. In many countries, around the world, you can be tortured, imprisoned and put to death for being Christian. This risk will only increase greatly after the start of the tribulation.
Believe me, God is very aware of those who pretend to be Christians in order to pervert His Word. The devil has many tools operating for him around the world. They are currently planning Satan's rise to power. Jesus warns us that we should not fear these foul puppets. They have no power, except in this world.
If you overcome evil in this world, and lose your life doing so,
you will not die the second death.
So, what is this "second death?"
It is the eternal death of the soul. Death of the body does not begin to compare. Even the most hideous death in this world will end sooner or later. Eternal damnation will not.
Many are asking if the passage above means that poverty is the only way to honor Christ's death for us. The answer is "of course not." We must simply not set such store for things in this world that we lose sight of what is really important. There is a quote whose source I no longer remember, that says, "Why trade that which you cannot afford to lose, for that which you are unable to keep?"
Few, who call themselves Christians today, are willing to actually place Jesus first in their lives. They will be rewarded. Be one of them, please...
The Crown of Life will look great on you!
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!
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Listen! Can you hear the snarling?
Whose snarling?
Why, the beast, of course. Don't you think he's coming?
God did not put warnings in the bible because He wanted to watch us squirm! He wants us to react, to prepare for catastrophe! "In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, 'Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live.' " (Isaiah 38:1) kjv
Hezekiah was about to die, but God gave him a little advance notice. God has sent of LOT of warnings to all of us. He loves us so much that He wants us to be free from the coming events. He already knows just how bad things will become! His words are recorded as guardrails for all of time, because He IS the God of all time.
We have become so complacent about the coming of future events contained with the book of Revelation (or Apocalypse, depending on your favorite Bible version), that we now refuse to even consider that these thing are all already lined up, and almost ready to go.
The following is something that will happen during the first half of the tribulation...
" 'And I will grant my two witnesses power to prophesy for one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.' These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands which stand before the Lord of the earth. And if anyone would harm them, fire pours from their mouth and consumes their foes; if anyone would harm them, thus he is doomed to be killed. They have the power to shut the sky, that no rain may fall during their prophesying, and they have the power over the waters to turn them into blood, and to smite the earth with every plague, as often as they desire. And when they have finished their testimony, the beast that ascends from the bottomless pit will make war upon them and conquer them and kill them, and their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which is allegorically called Sodom and Egypt, where their Lord was crucified. For three days and a half men from the peoples and tribes and tongues and nations gaze at their dead bodies and refuse to let them be placed in a tomb, and those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them and make merry and exchange presents, because these two prophets had been a torment to those who dwell on the earth.' " (Rev 11:1-10)rsv
The city mentioned above is Jerusalem. Imagine how bad things would have to get before it will be thought of as either Sodom or Egypt! You know what Sodom was all about, but did you know that Egypt was named in celebration of the false god, "pta?" You don't want to be in Jerusalem during these times, and God doesn't want to be there, either! He wants you at His side, in heaven, awaiting the end of the Great Tribulation.
There are many, today, in what is supposed to be "the land of the free, and the home of the brave" who have so rejected the ways of God, that they all but worship vileness. It is now "politically correct" to accept every possible lifestyle and perversion, and proclaim them to be "normal." In fact, almost the only thing you are no longer free to be is a God-fearing Christian! A very large percentage of our politicians are nothing more that puppets, controlled by the wealthy, hyper-powerful, the "king-makers." They practice divisiveness to a degree that is appalling! And what is it leading up to?
"They worshipped the dragon for giving the beast such power, and they worshipped the beast. 'I there anyone as great as the beast?' the exclaimed. 'Who is able to fight against him?' Then the beast was allowed to speak great blasphemies against God. And he was given authority to do what he wanted for forty-two months. And he spoke terrible words of blasphemy against God, slandering His name and all who live in heaven, who are His temple. And the beast was allowed to wage war against God's holy people and to overcome them. And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation." (Rev 13:4-7)nlt
"And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world." (Rev 13:8) kjv
How much preparation does it take to ready the world for the greatest, most vile, takeover EVER? A Lot! That is why there are so many today, pretending to be intellectual, who try to convince us all that, "The only way to world peace is Global unity," which is, of course, a very necessary precursor to Satan's takeover, and seven year reign.
Please, I beg of you, get yourself right with God. Accept the salvation that was paid for by the horrible death that Jesus endured, so that we all could avoid the punishment we deserve. The coming tribulation will, by comparison, make Hitler's regime seem like the Girl Scouts! And the Great Tribulation will truly be a nightmare of "biblical proportions!" Get saved! Spread the word, not just to those you love, but to everyone!
Listen. Can you hear the snarling? It is getting closer!
Why, the beast, of course. Don't you think he's coming?
God did not put warnings in the bible because He wanted to watch us squirm! He wants us to react, to prepare for catastrophe! "In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, 'Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live.' " (Isaiah 38:1) kjv
Hezekiah was about to die, but God gave him a little advance notice. God has sent of LOT of warnings to all of us. He loves us so much that He wants us to be free from the coming events. He already knows just how bad things will become! His words are recorded as guardrails for all of time, because He IS the God of all time.
We have become so complacent about the coming of future events contained with the book of Revelation (or Apocalypse, depending on your favorite Bible version), that we now refuse to even consider that these thing are all already lined up, and almost ready to go.
The following is something that will happen during the first half of the tribulation...
" 'And I will grant my two witnesses power to prophesy for one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.' These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands which stand before the Lord of the earth. And if anyone would harm them, fire pours from their mouth and consumes their foes; if anyone would harm them, thus he is doomed to be killed. They have the power to shut the sky, that no rain may fall during their prophesying, and they have the power over the waters to turn them into blood, and to smite the earth with every plague, as often as they desire. And when they have finished their testimony, the beast that ascends from the bottomless pit will make war upon them and conquer them and kill them, and their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which is allegorically called Sodom and Egypt, where their Lord was crucified. For three days and a half men from the peoples and tribes and tongues and nations gaze at their dead bodies and refuse to let them be placed in a tomb, and those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them and make merry and exchange presents, because these two prophets had been a torment to those who dwell on the earth.' " (Rev 11:1-10)rsv
The city mentioned above is Jerusalem. Imagine how bad things would have to get before it will be thought of as either Sodom or Egypt! You know what Sodom was all about, but did you know that Egypt was named in celebration of the false god, "pta?" You don't want to be in Jerusalem during these times, and God doesn't want to be there, either! He wants you at His side, in heaven, awaiting the end of the Great Tribulation.
There are many, today, in what is supposed to be "the land of the free, and the home of the brave" who have so rejected the ways of God, that they all but worship vileness. It is now "politically correct" to accept every possible lifestyle and perversion, and proclaim them to be "normal." In fact, almost the only thing you are no longer free to be is a God-fearing Christian! A very large percentage of our politicians are nothing more that puppets, controlled by the wealthy, hyper-powerful, the "king-makers." They practice divisiveness to a degree that is appalling! And what is it leading up to?
"They worshipped the dragon for giving the beast such power, and they worshipped the beast. 'I there anyone as great as the beast?' the exclaimed. 'Who is able to fight against him?' Then the beast was allowed to speak great blasphemies against God. And he was given authority to do what he wanted for forty-two months. And he spoke terrible words of blasphemy against God, slandering His name and all who live in heaven, who are His temple. And the beast was allowed to wage war against God's holy people and to overcome them. And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation." (Rev 13:4-7)nlt
"And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world." (Rev 13:8) kjv
How much preparation does it take to ready the world for the greatest, most vile, takeover EVER? A Lot! That is why there are so many today, pretending to be intellectual, who try to convince us all that, "The only way to world peace is Global unity," which is, of course, a very necessary precursor to Satan's takeover, and seven year reign.
Please, I beg of you, get yourself right with God. Accept the salvation that was paid for by the horrible death that Jesus endured, so that we all could avoid the punishment we deserve. The coming tribulation will, by comparison, make Hitler's regime seem like the Girl Scouts! And the Great Tribulation will truly be a nightmare of "biblical proportions!" Get saved! Spread the word, not just to those you love, but to everyone!
Listen. Can you hear the snarling? It is getting closer!
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!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
The Tower of Babel, Today
It has been an intense several months. I had another heart attack (mild, thanks be to God!), while still enjoying several blood and breathing disorders, as well as bone-spurs growing in various places (ouch!).
Being forced to kick activity down for a while, I decided to read a book entitled, "Babylon is Everywhere" by Wolf Schneider, subtitled "The City as Man’s Fate." Very dry reading, to say the least.
This book is NOT Bible-based. It uses the Bible in much the same way as a book about the old west might use the legend of the gunfight at the OK Corral. Just the same, it gives one a greater understanding as to what God’s point-of-view may be about cities in general, and why He destroyed the Tower of Babel.
Consider this; God made man (male and female) to be His companion(s). He placed us in the Garden so that our needs were met. The situation was not unlike having a canary in your house. You provide it with a cage, food and water. You enjoy its company, listen to it sing, care for it, and feel some affection for it. Your home feels more cheerful, right?
Suppose it began finding a way out of its cage, flew around your home, leaving "presents" in inappropriate places, tore open your loaves of bread and began acting aggressively toward your children. How long before you "invited" the bird to leave? You might just toss cage and all out the back door.
Now suppose that bird brought thousands of other birds to your front yard and began erecting a 400 foot tall bird house that blocked your view of the neighborhood. They leave hundreds of pounds of their "presents" all over your yard, home and car, AND start attacking you every time you attempt to enter or leave your home. How long do you think it would take you to get angry enough to begin some form of "pest control?"
You see, God wants us to choose to love Him, but, He lets us do the choosing. He will not force us. He wants us to rely on Him, giving Him the credit for all He’s done, asking Him for His help when times are rough, thanking Him for the good times and seeking solace in Him whenever the bad times come.
Do we do this? Any of this? For the most part, NO! We tend to blame Him for all of our hardships, and credit ourselves for all of our accomplishments. The tower of bab-el came about because people were trying to prove that they were like God, and could reach up to the heavens in a showy display designed to prove that mankind was as great as God.
Lets back up, just a tad…
Adam and Eve were evicted from the garden because they wanted to do things their own way, instead of God’s way.
Abel relied upon God’s bounty almost entirely, as does anyone who hunts or herds animals. He was very aware of his need and reliance upon God.
Cain, being a farmer, was much more likely to see himself as the author of his own good fortune. After all, he saw that his own efforts, his sweat, his vision, his planning, etc. resulted in his betterment, and was much less likely to thank God for His part in it. Sounds a bit like people today, does it not?
Cain killed his brother, Abel, but God did not kill Cain. Why? Perhaps it was partly to be a lesson to us as to the value of human life. Consider this when someone you know discusses abortion.
Cain invented cities, naming the first one "Enoch" after his own son. Farming, murder and cities, what an inventor Cain was! Since neither farming, nor murder gave honor to God, perhaps God had good reason to dislike cities, as well.
But, what can be wrong with a city? Look at Genesis 11:1-4 "At one time the whole world spoke a single language and used the same words. As the people migrated eastward, they found a plain in the land of Babylonia and settled there. They began to talk about construction projects. "Come" they said, "lets make great piles of burnt brick and collect a natural asphalt to use as mortar. Let’s build a great city with a tower that reaches to the skies - a monument to our greatness! This will bring us together and keep us from scattering all over the world." (nlt)
How do you suppose God felt about this? Remember the canaries in your front yard? Do not cities today build grandiose architectural endeavors that seem to only glorify those who claim that city as home? Are we not leaving God out of our lives today to an unprecedented degree? Why do you suppose there is a Tribulation coming? God wants us to rediscover our need for Him, yet we keep pushing the boundaries, trying to prove the opposite is true. Throughout history, God has allowed disasters of varying degrees to remind us that we MUST look to Him for everything, but we keep stubbornly trying to prove otherwise. In many ways, we are like those children, who must receive a swat on the rear every-so-often to keep them from mischief.
Remember, God sees all time as "now." He calls Himself "I AM" as an illustration of this. We do not see the future, we seem to forget the past, and ignore the present. God wants us to recognize our need of Him. He gives us chance after chance after chance after chance… But, there is an end coming, and it is coming soon. Don’t get your dander up, and say, "You don’t know when it is coming!" Of course I don’t know. Matthew 25:13 says, "So stay awake and be prepared, because you do not know the day or hour of my return." (nlt) None of us knows. God does not want to be our insurance policy. He does not want us flipping on the "salvation option" at the last instant before doomsday. He simply wants all of us to CHOOSE to serve Him because we WANT to. Don’t look to civilization to save you from the Tribulation. Don’t count on "having lead the good life." Don’t trust your soul to a religion, no matter which religion. Entrust it to God. He made you. He earned your trust by Jesus’ sacrifice, which paid your way to heaven.
I cannot pretend to understand why God thinks we are worth it. I just know He says it is so. Know in your heart that He loves you, even when you sin. Love Him back! Acknowledge your sinful nature. Cling with all you have to His Word, His Promise, and His Love. Then get out and help others to understand. The time is very short, the time of the rapture draws nearer every day. God loves you! Show Him a return on His investment in you!
See you soon, in Paradise!
Being forced to kick activity down for a while, I decided to read a book entitled, "Babylon is Everywhere" by Wolf Schneider, subtitled "The City as Man’s Fate." Very dry reading, to say the least.
This book is NOT Bible-based. It uses the Bible in much the same way as a book about the old west might use the legend of the gunfight at the OK Corral. Just the same, it gives one a greater understanding as to what God’s point-of-view may be about cities in general, and why He destroyed the Tower of Babel.
Consider this; God made man (male and female) to be His companion(s). He placed us in the Garden so that our needs were met. The situation was not unlike having a canary in your house. You provide it with a cage, food and water. You enjoy its company, listen to it sing, care for it, and feel some affection for it. Your home feels more cheerful, right?
Suppose it began finding a way out of its cage, flew around your home, leaving "presents" in inappropriate places, tore open your loaves of bread and began acting aggressively toward your children. How long before you "invited" the bird to leave? You might just toss cage and all out the back door.
Now suppose that bird brought thousands of other birds to your front yard and began erecting a 400 foot tall bird house that blocked your view of the neighborhood. They leave hundreds of pounds of their "presents" all over your yard, home and car, AND start attacking you every time you attempt to enter or leave your home. How long do you think it would take you to get angry enough to begin some form of "pest control?"
You see, God wants us to choose to love Him, but, He lets us do the choosing. He will not force us. He wants us to rely on Him, giving Him the credit for all He’s done, asking Him for His help when times are rough, thanking Him for the good times and seeking solace in Him whenever the bad times come.
Do we do this? Any of this? For the most part, NO! We tend to blame Him for all of our hardships, and credit ourselves for all of our accomplishments. The tower of bab-el came about because people were trying to prove that they were like God, and could reach up to the heavens in a showy display designed to prove that mankind was as great as God.
Lets back up, just a tad…
Adam and Eve were evicted from the garden because they wanted to do things their own way, instead of God’s way.
Abel relied upon God’s bounty almost entirely, as does anyone who hunts or herds animals. He was very aware of his need and reliance upon God.
Cain, being a farmer, was much more likely to see himself as the author of his own good fortune. After all, he saw that his own efforts, his sweat, his vision, his planning, etc. resulted in his betterment, and was much less likely to thank God for His part in it. Sounds a bit like people today, does it not?
Cain killed his brother, Abel, but God did not kill Cain. Why? Perhaps it was partly to be a lesson to us as to the value of human life. Consider this when someone you know discusses abortion.
Cain invented cities, naming the first one "Enoch" after his own son. Farming, murder and cities, what an inventor Cain was! Since neither farming, nor murder gave honor to God, perhaps God had good reason to dislike cities, as well.
But, what can be wrong with a city? Look at Genesis 11:1-4 "At one time the whole world spoke a single language and used the same words. As the people migrated eastward, they found a plain in the land of Babylonia and settled there. They began to talk about construction projects. "Come" they said, "lets make great piles of burnt brick and collect a natural asphalt to use as mortar. Let’s build a great city with a tower that reaches to the skies - a monument to our greatness! This will bring us together and keep us from scattering all over the world." (nlt)
How do you suppose God felt about this? Remember the canaries in your front yard? Do not cities today build grandiose architectural endeavors that seem to only glorify those who claim that city as home? Are we not leaving God out of our lives today to an unprecedented degree? Why do you suppose there is a Tribulation coming? God wants us to rediscover our need for Him, yet we keep pushing the boundaries, trying to prove the opposite is true. Throughout history, God has allowed disasters of varying degrees to remind us that we MUST look to Him for everything, but we keep stubbornly trying to prove otherwise. In many ways, we are like those children, who must receive a swat on the rear every-so-often to keep them from mischief.
Remember, God sees all time as "now." He calls Himself "I AM" as an illustration of this. We do not see the future, we seem to forget the past, and ignore the present. God wants us to recognize our need of Him. He gives us chance after chance after chance after chance… But, there is an end coming, and it is coming soon. Don’t get your dander up, and say, "You don’t know when it is coming!" Of course I don’t know. Matthew 25:13 says, "So stay awake and be prepared, because you do not know the day or hour of my return." (nlt) None of us knows. God does not want to be our insurance policy. He does not want us flipping on the "salvation option" at the last instant before doomsday. He simply wants all of us to CHOOSE to serve Him because we WANT to. Don’t look to civilization to save you from the Tribulation. Don’t count on "having lead the good life." Don’t trust your soul to a religion, no matter which religion. Entrust it to God. He made you. He earned your trust by Jesus’ sacrifice, which paid your way to heaven.
I cannot pretend to understand why God thinks we are worth it. I just know He says it is so. Know in your heart that He loves you, even when you sin. Love Him back! Acknowledge your sinful nature. Cling with all you have to His Word, His Promise, and His Love. Then get out and help others to understand. The time is very short, the time of the rapture draws nearer every day. God loves you! Show Him a return on His investment in you!
See you soon, in Paradise!
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