Remember the last time you needed help? Not just help with your homework, but HELP. You were at the end of your rope, no more options; you'd done everything and nothing worked. You were confused, afraid, and lonely all at the same time. What do you do when the answers just don't seem to come?
Joshua 1:9: Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
God gives two positive commands here--be strong and be of courage. Don't be afraid. Don't be discouraged. And then, the promise, "The Lord your God is with you wherever you go." That promise gives you strength to obey the two commands. You can rest in teh fact that God promises to help. You are not alone. You may not get help at the exact second you think you need it, but He will help you. He knows exactly how much you can take. He'll be right on time.
Go forward, and don't be discouraged. Satan will blow and blister, but there is nothing he can do, providing we will continue to trust the Lord, and continue forward. There will be hindrances, but don't let them deter you or even slow you down. And if the Lord be with us, and He most definitely will, if we adhere strictly to the Word, Satan is then defeated, and prosperity of every stripe is guaranteed.
Haggai 2:4:
Yet now be strong, Zerubbalad; says the Lord; and be strong, Joshua, so of Jehozadak, the high priest; and be strong, all you people of the Land," says the Lord, 'and work; for I am with you,' says he Lord of hosts.
Now the strength that is mentioned here comes about only by and through Faith in the Lord and His word. Faith having Christ and the Cross as it's object can always be assured of the Presence of the Holy Spirit; hence the Promise, "for I am with you, saith the Lord of Host."
Courage is define as a mental or moral strength to venture, persevere,a dn withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.
Most people may say that they have courage and isn't afriad of anything....but does that courage include God? When it comes to speaking the Word of God most people back down..Why? Is it because they are afraid of what other people may think of them, or maybe they ahve a fear of speaking in front of crowds.
It would be hard to show your loyality to God when you're afraid to tell other people about Him. In Joshua 1:9, God promises to be with you wherever you go. So if you feel afraid just remember that the Lord is with you to help you out. All you have to do is believe in Him. He will give you the courage you'll need to over ome any obsticles you come across.
As for me I have fear of going in front of crowds. So what I do to help spread the Word is by writing Bloggs, just like I am now. There are millions of people that uses the internet, so there is no better way to spread the word of God than to use the internet. Even thoug I am still afraid to speak in front of crowds, I found away around it. The Lord has given me the answer to use the internet as a way for me to spread the word. I may not know if I'm getting through to any one, but God knows.
Courage is not only for taking away your fear, but to help you in situations when you run out of options. All you have to do is look to the Lord and believe in Him and He will always be there for you. He will never let you down.
Find the Lord and stop being afraid and alone. Let Him give you courage to go out in the World and follow Him. He will provide you with everything that you will need. It will make your life a whole lot better, not easier but better. You'll be a lot happier that way. God Bless you all.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Relevance vs. Revolution
The molding to God, His will, and His word (The Bible).
Jeremiah 18:1-6:
The world which came to Jeremiah from the Lord, saying: "Arise and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause you to hear My words." Then I went down to the potter's house, and there he was, making something at the wheel. And the vessel that he made of clay was married in the hand of the potter; so he made it again into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make. Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying: "O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter?" says the Lord. "Look, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel!"
Thoughts:
You are like clay in the hands of the potter. The potter decides what shape he wants the clay to become, and then he molds and forms the clay into that shape. If he finds a flow in the bowl he's making--he starts over. God, in His wisdom, has decided what shape our lives will take. He will mold us until we have become what he has envisioned. Did you know that you are just clay? Think about the job of clay--to rest in the potter's hands and to hold the shape he forms. If you sense that God is molding your life into one that pleases Him, then do the job of clay--rest in His hands and trust Him. The clay cannot argue with the potter. The potter's wisdom is greater and he ultimately decides on the shapes that please him. Trust God; He will lovingly mold you like a lump of clay. He will work out the flaws, and He may even start over, but the result will be pleasing to His eyes.
Should you try to mold God around your life? That seems to be a trend in Christianity. We want to try to only fit God into parts of our lives that seem necessary at the time, or "relevant." The term relevant used a lot in modern Christianity. Some people say some of the Bible is not relevant to them. How is that so? Even though times have changed, people haven't. Sure there are some crazy things that happen in the Bible that may not exactly take place in modern times. But that isn't the point--the point is to look into the heart of each situation the Bible discusses. Sure, we may not part the seas like Moses, but is that what the Bible was telling us to do? Don’t you think it was more along the lines of trying to explain Moses’ faith?
You can choose to live your life relevant for God, but isn't that kind of boring? You can just sit there, and blend in with the crowd and wait for God to do something, but what is the point in that? You don't just sit there and wait and try to figure out what God wants you to do. God provides all of us with opportunities to share His word. We can do that at work, home, anywhere we are with people...and as far as applying that word to fix a problem in your life, my next question is this....Why try to think that you can force God, on will, to fix your problems? We have to remember that we are on God's time, and not ours.
Going back to Jeremiah, it describes how we are to be like clay in the hands of a potter...meaning our hearts, our lives, they are in God's hands, but you have to surrender your will to His, to let Him fully mold you into what He wants you to be. If you fully live your life for God....that isn't relevant.....that is revolutionary!!!! Would you consider Moses to be relevant or revolutionary? Or think of David, this small man that went on to face, and defeat a giant enemy when no one else could, but he relied on God.....was that relevant or revolutionary?
You should view your walk with God like a road trip. You think of leaving point A, and how you can't wait to get to point B....but when the trip is over, you think of all the stuff that happened along the way, and some of those are the best memories of the trip. You have to look at a whole to understand it...not just part of it. Final thought in prayer....We can all continue to let God move in our lives. Surrender your will to his. Life won't be easy...no matter what any modern day popular preacher will tell you....you will take some punches, but if you get knocked down…don't stay down...get back up. God is there to keep guiding you along the way!!!
Jeremiah 18:1-6:
The world which came to Jeremiah from the Lord, saying: "Arise and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause you to hear My words." Then I went down to the potter's house, and there he was, making something at the wheel. And the vessel that he made of clay was married in the hand of the potter; so he made it again into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make. Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying: "O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter?" says the Lord. "Look, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel!"
Thoughts:
You are like clay in the hands of the potter. The potter decides what shape he wants the clay to become, and then he molds and forms the clay into that shape. If he finds a flow in the bowl he's making--he starts over. God, in His wisdom, has decided what shape our lives will take. He will mold us until we have become what he has envisioned. Did you know that you are just clay? Think about the job of clay--to rest in the potter's hands and to hold the shape he forms. If you sense that God is molding your life into one that pleases Him, then do the job of clay--rest in His hands and trust Him. The clay cannot argue with the potter. The potter's wisdom is greater and he ultimately decides on the shapes that please him. Trust God; He will lovingly mold you like a lump of clay. He will work out the flaws, and He may even start over, but the result will be pleasing to His eyes.
Should you try to mold God around your life? That seems to be a trend in Christianity. We want to try to only fit God into parts of our lives that seem necessary at the time, or "relevant." The term relevant used a lot in modern Christianity. Some people say some of the Bible is not relevant to them. How is that so? Even though times have changed, people haven't. Sure there are some crazy things that happen in the Bible that may not exactly take place in modern times. But that isn't the point--the point is to look into the heart of each situation the Bible discusses. Sure, we may not part the seas like Moses, but is that what the Bible was telling us to do? Don’t you think it was more along the lines of trying to explain Moses’ faith?
You can choose to live your life relevant for God, but isn't that kind of boring? You can just sit there, and blend in with the crowd and wait for God to do something, but what is the point in that? You don't just sit there and wait and try to figure out what God wants you to do. God provides all of us with opportunities to share His word. We can do that at work, home, anywhere we are with people...and as far as applying that word to fix a problem in your life, my next question is this....Why try to think that you can force God, on will, to fix your problems? We have to remember that we are on God's time, and not ours.
Going back to Jeremiah, it describes how we are to be like clay in the hands of a potter...meaning our hearts, our lives, they are in God's hands, but you have to surrender your will to His, to let Him fully mold you into what He wants you to be. If you fully live your life for God....that isn't relevant.....that is revolutionary!!!! Would you consider Moses to be relevant or revolutionary? Or think of David, this small man that went on to face, and defeat a giant enemy when no one else could, but he relied on God.....was that relevant or revolutionary?
You should view your walk with God like a road trip. You think of leaving point A, and how you can't wait to get to point B....but when the trip is over, you think of all the stuff that happened along the way, and some of those are the best memories of the trip. You have to look at a whole to understand it...not just part of it. Final thought in prayer....We can all continue to let God move in our lives. Surrender your will to his. Life won't be easy...no matter what any modern day popular preacher will tell you....you will take some punches, but if you get knocked down…don't stay down...get back up. God is there to keep guiding you along the way!!!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Too Busy for Jesus?
PAY ATTENTION TO EVERY WORD!!!!!!
Satan called a worldwide convention of demons.
In his opening address he said,"We can't keep Christians from going to church."
"We can't keep them from reading their Bibles and knowing the truth....."
"We can't even keep them from forming an intimate relationship with Their SAVIOR."
"Once they gain that connection with JESUS, our power over them isBroken."
"So let them go to their churches; let them have their covered dish dinners, BUT steal their time, so they don't have time to develop a relationship With JESUS CHRIST.."
"This is what I want you to do," said the devil:"Distract them from gaining hold of their SAVIOR and maintaining that Vital connection throughout their day!"
"How shall we do this?" his demons shouted."Keep them busy in the non-essentials of life and invent innumerable Schemes to occupy their minds," he answered....
"Tempt them to spend, spend, spend, and borrow, borrow, borrow.."
"Persuade the wives to go to work for long hours and the husbands to work6- 7 days each week, 10-12 hours a day, so they can afford their empty Lifestyles."
"Keep them from spending time with their children."
"As their families fragment, soon, their homes will offer no escape from The pressures of work!"
"Over-stimulate their minds so that they cannot hear that still, small voice."
"Entice them to play the radio or I-Pod whenever they drive."
"ToKeep the TV, DVDs, CDs and their PCs going constantly in their home and see To it that every store and restaurant in the world plays non-biblical musicConstantly."
"This will jam their minds and break that union with CHRIST."
"Fill the coffee tables with magazines and newspapers."
"Pound their minds with the news 24 hours a day."
"Invade their driving moments with billboards."
"Flood their mailboxes with junk mail, mail order catalogs, sweepstakes, and Every kind of newsletter and promotional offering free products, services And false hopes."
"Keep skinny, beautiful models on the magazines and TV so their husbands Will believe that outward beauty is what's important, and they'll Become dissatisfied with their wives. "
"Keep the wives too tired to love their husbands at night."
"Give them headaches too! "
"If they don't give their husbands the love they need, they will begin to Look elsewhere.."
"That will fragment their families quickly!"
"Give them Santa Claus to distract them from teaching their children the Real meaning of Christmas."
"Give them an Easter bunny so they won't talk about HIS resurrection And power over sin and death..."
"Even in their recreation, let them be excessive."
"Have them return from their recreation exhausted."
"Keep them too busy to go out in nature and reflect on GOD'S creation. Send them to amusement parks, sporting events, plays, concerts, and movies Instead."
"Keep them busy, busy, busy!"
"And when they meet for spiritual fellowship, involve them in gossip and Small talk so that they leave with troubled consciences."
"Crowd their lives with so many good causes they have no time to seek Power from JESUS."
"Soon they will be working in their own strength, sacrificing their health And family for the good of the cause."
"It will work!"
"It will work!"
"It was quite a plan!"
The demons went eagerly to their assignments causing Christians everywhere To get busier & more rushed, going here & there.
Having little time for their GOD or their families.
Having no time to tell others about the power of JESUS to change lives.
I guess the question is, has the devil been successful in his schemes?
You be the judge!!!!!
Does "BUSY" mean: B-eing U-nder S-atan's Y-oke?
Please pass this on, if you aren't too BUSY!
I don't think I know 10 people who would admit they love JESUS..
D o You Love HIM?
IF YOU LOVE JESUS, PASS THIS ON!!!!!!!
Satan called a worldwide convention of demons.
In his opening address he said,"We can't keep Christians from going to church."
"We can't keep them from reading their Bibles and knowing the truth....."
"We can't even keep them from forming an intimate relationship with Their SAVIOR."
"Once they gain that connection with JESUS, our power over them isBroken."
"So let them go to their churches; let them have their covered dish dinners, BUT steal their time, so they don't have time to develop a relationship With JESUS CHRIST.."
"This is what I want you to do," said the devil:"Distract them from gaining hold of their SAVIOR and maintaining that Vital connection throughout their day!"
"How shall we do this?" his demons shouted."Keep them busy in the non-essentials of life and invent innumerable Schemes to occupy their minds," he answered....
"Tempt them to spend, spend, spend, and borrow, borrow, borrow.."
"Persuade the wives to go to work for long hours and the husbands to work6- 7 days each week, 10-12 hours a day, so they can afford their empty Lifestyles."
"Keep them from spending time with their children."
"As their families fragment, soon, their homes will offer no escape from The pressures of work!"
"Over-stimulate their minds so that they cannot hear that still, small voice."
"Entice them to play the radio or I-Pod whenever they drive."
"ToKeep the TV, DVDs, CDs and their PCs going constantly in their home and see To it that every store and restaurant in the world plays non-biblical musicConstantly."
"This will jam their minds and break that union with CHRIST."
"Fill the coffee tables with magazines and newspapers."
"Pound their minds with the news 24 hours a day."
"Invade their driving moments with billboards."
"Flood their mailboxes with junk mail, mail order catalogs, sweepstakes, and Every kind of newsletter and promotional offering free products, services And false hopes."
"Keep skinny, beautiful models on the magazines and TV so their husbands Will believe that outward beauty is what's important, and they'll Become dissatisfied with their wives. "
"Keep the wives too tired to love their husbands at night."
"Give them headaches too! "
"If they don't give their husbands the love they need, they will begin to Look elsewhere.."
"That will fragment their families quickly!"
"Give them Santa Claus to distract them from teaching their children the Real meaning of Christmas."
"Give them an Easter bunny so they won't talk about HIS resurrection And power over sin and death..."
"Even in their recreation, let them be excessive."
"Have them return from their recreation exhausted."
"Keep them too busy to go out in nature and reflect on GOD'S creation. Send them to amusement parks, sporting events, plays, concerts, and movies Instead."
"Keep them busy, busy, busy!"
"And when they meet for spiritual fellowship, involve them in gossip and Small talk so that they leave with troubled consciences."
"Crowd their lives with so many good causes they have no time to seek Power from JESUS."
"Soon they will be working in their own strength, sacrificing their health And family for the good of the cause."
"It will work!"
"It will work!"
"It was quite a plan!"
The demons went eagerly to their assignments causing Christians everywhere To get busier & more rushed, going here & there.
Having little time for their GOD or their families.
Having no time to tell others about the power of JESUS to change lives.
I guess the question is, has the devil been successful in his schemes?
You be the judge!!!!!
Does "BUSY" mean: B-eing U-nder S-atan's Y-oke?
Please pass this on, if you aren't too BUSY!
I don't think I know 10 people who would admit they love JESUS..
D o You Love HIM?
IF YOU LOVE JESUS, PASS THIS ON!!!!!!!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Overwhelmed? Experiencing stress?
Isaiah 55:1-9
The Lord's Invitation:
If you are thirsty, come and drink water! If you don't have any money, come, eat what you want! Drink wine and milk without paying a cent. Why waste your money on what really isn't food? Why work hard for something that doesn't satisfy? Listen carefully to me, and you will enjoy the very best foods. Pay close attention! Come to me and live. I will promise you the eternal love and loyalty that I promised David. I made him the leader and ruler of the nations; he was my witness to them. You will call out to nations you have never known. And they have never known you, becasue I am the Lord, the holy God of Isreal, and I have honored you.
Turn to the Lord! He can still be found. Call out to God! He is near. Give up your evil thoughts. Return to the Lord our God. He will be merciful and forgive your sins. The Lord says: "My thoughts and my ways are not like yours. Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, my thoughts and my ways are higher than yours."
Matthew 11:25-30
Come to Me and Rest:
Jesus said: My Father, Lord of heaven and earth, I am grateful that you hid all this from wise and educated people and showed it to ordinary people. Yes, Father, tht is what pleased you. My father has given me everything, and he is the only one who knows the Son. The only one who truly knows the Father is the Son. But the Son wants to tell others about the Father, so that they can know him too. If you are tired from carrying heavy burdens, come to me and I will give you rest. Take the youe I give you. Put it on your shoulders and learn from me. I am gentle and humble, and you will find rest. This yoke is easy to bear, and this burden is light.
John 4:1-30
Jesus knew that the Pharisees had heard that he was winning and baptising more followers than John was. But Jesus' disciples were really the ones doing the baptizing, and not Jesus himself. Jesus left Judea and started for Galilee again. This time he had to go through Samaria, and on his way he came to the town of Sychar. It was near the field that Jacob had long ago given to his son Joseph. The well that Jacob had dug was still there, and Jesus sat down beside it beause he was tired from traveling. I was noon, and after Jesus' disciples had gone into town to buy some food, a Samaritan woman came to draw water from the well. Jesus asked her, "Would you please give me a drink of water?" "You are a Jew," she replied, "and I am a samaritan woman. How can you ask me fo a drink of water when Jews and Samaritans won't have anything to do with each other?"
Jesus answerd. "You don't know what God wants to give you, and you don't know who is asking you for a drink. If you did, you would ask me for the water that gives life" "Sir," the women said, "you don't even have a bucket, and the well is deep. Where are you going to get this life-giving water? Out ancestor Jacob dug this well for us, and his family and animals got water from it. Are you greater than Jacob?" Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will get thirsty again. But no one who drinks the water I give will ever be thirsty again. The water I give is like a flowing fountain that gives eternal life." The women replied, " Sir, please give me a drink of that water! Then I won't get thirsty and have to come to this well again."
Jesus told her, "Go and bring your husband." "That's right," Jesus replied, "you're telling the truth. You don't have a husband. You have already been married five times, and the man you are now living with isn't your husband." The women said. "Sir, I can see tat you are a prophet. My ancestors worshiped on this moutain, but you Jews say Jerusalem is the only place to worship." Jesus said to her: Believe me, the time is coming when you won't worship the Father either on this mountian or in Jerusalem. You Samaritans don't really know the one you worship. But we Jews do know the God we worship, and by using us, God will save the world. But a time is coming, and it is already here! Even now the true worshipers are being led by the Spirit to worship the Father according to the truth. These are the ones the Father is seeking to worship him. God is Spirit, and those who worship God must be led by the Spirit to worship him according to the truth. The women said, "I know that the Messiah will come. He is the one we call Christ. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
"I am that one," Jesus told her, "and I am speaking to you now." The disciples returned about this time and were surprised to find Jesus talking with a women. But non of them asked him what the wanted or why he was talking with her. The women left her water jar and ran back into town. She said to the people, "Come and see a man, who told me everything I have ever done! Could he be the Messiah?" Everyone in town went out to see Jesus.
The Lord's Invitation:
If you are thirsty, come and drink water! If you don't have any money, come, eat what you want! Drink wine and milk without paying a cent. Why waste your money on what really isn't food? Why work hard for something that doesn't satisfy? Listen carefully to me, and you will enjoy the very best foods. Pay close attention! Come to me and live. I will promise you the eternal love and loyalty that I promised David. I made him the leader and ruler of the nations; he was my witness to them. You will call out to nations you have never known. And they have never known you, becasue I am the Lord, the holy God of Isreal, and I have honored you.
Turn to the Lord! He can still be found. Call out to God! He is near. Give up your evil thoughts. Return to the Lord our God. He will be merciful and forgive your sins. The Lord says: "My thoughts and my ways are not like yours. Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, my thoughts and my ways are higher than yours."
Matthew 11:25-30
Come to Me and Rest:
Jesus said: My Father, Lord of heaven and earth, I am grateful that you hid all this from wise and educated people and showed it to ordinary people. Yes, Father, tht is what pleased you. My father has given me everything, and he is the only one who knows the Son. The only one who truly knows the Father is the Son. But the Son wants to tell others about the Father, so that they can know him too. If you are tired from carrying heavy burdens, come to me and I will give you rest. Take the youe I give you. Put it on your shoulders and learn from me. I am gentle and humble, and you will find rest. This yoke is easy to bear, and this burden is light.
John 4:1-30
Jesus knew that the Pharisees had heard that he was winning and baptising more followers than John was. But Jesus' disciples were really the ones doing the baptizing, and not Jesus himself. Jesus left Judea and started for Galilee again. This time he had to go through Samaria, and on his way he came to the town of Sychar. It was near the field that Jacob had long ago given to his son Joseph. The well that Jacob had dug was still there, and Jesus sat down beside it beause he was tired from traveling. I was noon, and after Jesus' disciples had gone into town to buy some food, a Samaritan woman came to draw water from the well. Jesus asked her, "Would you please give me a drink of water?" "You are a Jew," she replied, "and I am a samaritan woman. How can you ask me fo a drink of water when Jews and Samaritans won't have anything to do with each other?"
Jesus answerd. "You don't know what God wants to give you, and you don't know who is asking you for a drink. If you did, you would ask me for the water that gives life" "Sir," the women said, "you don't even have a bucket, and the well is deep. Where are you going to get this life-giving water? Out ancestor Jacob dug this well for us, and his family and animals got water from it. Are you greater than Jacob?" Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will get thirsty again. But no one who drinks the water I give will ever be thirsty again. The water I give is like a flowing fountain that gives eternal life." The women replied, " Sir, please give me a drink of that water! Then I won't get thirsty and have to come to this well again."
Jesus told her, "Go and bring your husband." "That's right," Jesus replied, "you're telling the truth. You don't have a husband. You have already been married five times, and the man you are now living with isn't your husband." The women said. "Sir, I can see tat you are a prophet. My ancestors worshiped on this moutain, but you Jews say Jerusalem is the only place to worship." Jesus said to her: Believe me, the time is coming when you won't worship the Father either on this mountian or in Jerusalem. You Samaritans don't really know the one you worship. But we Jews do know the God we worship, and by using us, God will save the world. But a time is coming, and it is already here! Even now the true worshipers are being led by the Spirit to worship the Father according to the truth. These are the ones the Father is seeking to worship him. God is Spirit, and those who worship God must be led by the Spirit to worship him according to the truth. The women said, "I know that the Messiah will come. He is the one we call Christ. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
"I am that one," Jesus told her, "and I am speaking to you now." The disciples returned about this time and were surprised to find Jesus talking with a women. But non of them asked him what the wanted or why he was talking with her. The women left her water jar and ran back into town. She said to the people, "Come and see a man, who told me everything I have ever done! Could he be the Messiah?" Everyone in town went out to see Jesus.
Batter For Strength
Sleep for the mind that worried will never come
The wondering if the inevitable will occur
To love a father cherished, and then to let go
It's hard seeing a strong man diminish before my eyes
It's hard for me to look at him, and he sees that in my face
I work, study, read, anything to keep my mind
From going on the path it tends to go.
Knowing that one day he will no longer be here
To glimpse my future with out him. It seems like nothing is there
What can I do?
Lord please help me
Is it too much to ask for strength Lord?
For this is a time to keep my emotions in check
Give me faith that You will be there
With every hard moment, I can count on You
Lord ease the suffering that has a hold on him
Give me the strength to carry on.
LORD GIVE ME STRENGTH.
For the man that I love so dearly, and call father.
_______________________________________________________
I have written this poem a month before my dad died. This was what I was feeling when he was sick in bed from cancer. I was asking the Lord to give me strength at to ask Him to ease my dad's suffering. The night before he died I pray to the Lord to take my father home with Him. Before my brother can come wake me up to let me know that he had died I have already awaken and knew. I didn't cry right away, but knowing that my pray has been answer made the tears come. It makes me happy that dad is not longer suffering from the pain that the devil has created. Thank you Lord for giving me the strength to carry on in life and to be there for my mom when she was having such a hard time.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Lesson 1 Continue
6. Are the historical statements of the Bible accurate? Isaiah 45:19
Yes, Bible historical statements are accurate. What God says in His book is true. Sometimes, temporarily, evidence may not be found to substantiate certain historical facts from the Bible, but in time the evidence surface. Note the following:
A. For years skeptics said the Bible was unreliable because it mentions the Hittite nation (Deut. 7:1) and cities like Nineveh (Jonah 1:1, 2) and Sodom (Gen. 19:1), which they denied ever existed. But now modern archaeology has confirmed that all three did, indeed, exist.
B. Critics also said that Bible-mentioned kings Belshazzar (Dan. 5:1) and Sargon (Isa. 20:1) never existed. Once again, it has now been confirmed they did exist.
C. Skeptics also said the Bible record of Moses was not reliable because it mentions writing (Exo. 24:4) and wheeled vehicles (Exo. 14:25), neither of which they said existed at the time. They, of course, know better today.
D. At one time the 39 kings of ancient Israel and Judah who reigned during the divided kingdom were authenticated only from the Bible record, so critics charged fabrication. But then archaeologists found cuneiform records that mentioned many of these kings and, once again, the Bible record was proved accurate. Critics have repeatedly been proved wrong as new discoveries confirm biblical people, places, and events. It will always be so.
7. One of the greatest miracles of the Bible is its unity. Please ponder the following amazing facts:
A. The 66 books of the Bible were written:
1. On three continents.
2. In three languages.
3. By about 40 different people (kings, shepherds, scientists, attorneys, an army general, fishermen, priests, and a physician).
4. Over a period of about 1,500 years.
5. On the most controversial subjects.
6. By people who, in most cases, had never met.
7. By authors whose education and background varied greatly.
B. Yet, though it seems totally inconceivable,
1. The 66 books maintain harmony with each other.
2. Often new concepts on a subject are expressed, but these concepts do not undermine what other Bible writers say on the same subject.
C. Talk about astounding!
Ask people who have viewed an identical event to each give a report of what happened. They will differ widely and will virtually always contradict each other in some way. Yet the Bible, penned by 40 writers over a 1,500-year period, reads as if written by one great mind. And, indeed, it was: “Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21. The Holy Ghost “moved” them all. He is the real Bible Author. The four Gospels do sometimes differ in the way they report the same event, but they complement each other.
8. What evidence of Bible inspiration is found in the lives of people? 2 Corinthians 5:17
The changed lives of those who follow Jesus and obey Scripture constitute the most heartwarming proof of Bible inspiration. The drunkard becomes sober; the immoral, pure; the addicted, free; the profane, reverent; the fearful, courageous; and the rude, kind. An American skeptic was visiting an island whose natives were originally cannibals. When he spotted an old man reading the Bible, he ridiculed him for reading a book “full of myths which had already been exposed.” The native smiled at him and said, “My friend, be grateful we do believe this book. Otherwise, we would be serving you for dinner.” The Bible really does change people, and this amazing fact confirms its inspiration.
9. What evidence for Bible inspiration emerges when we compare Old Testament prophecies of the coming Messiah with New Testament happenings in the life of Jesus? Luke 24:27; Acts 18:28
The Old Testament predictions of the Messiah to come were so specific and so clearly fulfilled by Jesus of Nazareth that both Jesus and Apollos used these prophecies to prove to the Jews that Jesus was, indeed, the Messiah. There are more than 125 of these prophecies. Let’s review just 12 of them:
Prophecy Old Testament Scripture New Testament Scripture
1.Born in Bethlehem Micah 5:2 Matthew 2:1
2.Born of a Virgin Isaiah 7:14 Matthew 1:18-23
3.Of David’s lineage Jeremiah 23:5 Revelation 22:16
4.Attempted murder by Herod Jeremiah 31:15 Matthew 2:16-18
5.Betrayal by friend Psalm 41:9 John 13:18, 19, 26
6.Sold for 30 silver coins Zechariah 11:12 Matthew 26:14-16
7.Crucified Zechariah 12:10 John 19:16-18, 37
8.Lots cast for His clothes Psalms 22:18 Matthew 27:35
9.No bones broken Psalms 34:20, Exodus 12:46 John 19:31-36
10. Buried in rich man’s tomb Isaiah 53:9 Matthew 27:57-60
11.Year, day, hour of his death Daniel 9:26, 27, Exodus 12:6 Matthew 27:45-50
12.Raised the third day Hosea 6:2 Acts 10:38-40
Dr. Peter Stoner, former chairman of the departments of mathematics, astronomy, and engineering at Pasadena College (California), worked with 600 students for several years applying the “principle of probability” to the prophecies of the Messiah’s coming. They chose just eight from the many available and finally decided the chances of all eight being fulfilled in one man in a lifetime is one in 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000. What would the odds be on the more than 125 prophecies of the Messiah? It couldn’t just happen!
10. What great advantage does a person have who accepts the Bible as God’s inspired word? Psalms 119:98, 100; Isaiah 55:9
A person who accepts the Word of God will soon know the answers too many complex challenges that secular scholars will never figure out. For example, the Bible teaches:
A. God created the earth and all living organisms in six literal, 24-hour days (Exodus 20:11; Psalms 33:6, 9).
B. A worldwide flood destroyed every living thing except the sea life and what was inside Noah’s ark (Genesis Ch. 6, 7, 8).
C. The different languages of the world began at the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:19).
God, who has always existed and knows everything, shares the above three truths with us, recognizing that we could never figure them out on our own. We know only “in part” now (1 Corinthians 13:9). And God’s knowledge is “past finding out” Romans 11:33. Evolutionists will never know the age of the earth because it was created with apparent age, as were Adam and Eve. The couples were only one day old on their second day of life, but they appeared to be mature. Man’s measuring instruments cannot allow for apparent age. In such cases, they are not trustworthy. Believe the Bible, and you will always be ahead of the speculation of secular scholars and the worldly-wise.
11. What crucial world happenings have brought the power and appeal of the Bible into sharp focus?
The failure and collapse of communism and the weakening and inconsistency of the theory of evolution have spotlighted the Bible. Evolution, like communism, is losing its grip and credibility. We must remember that it is nothing more than an unproved, shaky theory. The atheistic theory of evolution that humans and apes came from common ancestors scorns the concepts that people were created in the image of God. It denies the existence of God, totally disavows Jesus as Savior, negates the Bible, and ridicules the truth of an eternal home in heaven. Satan loves the evolution theory because it destroys the credibility of salvation. Communists are learning. Will we?
12. Why does the Bible have such universal appeal? Psalms 119:105; John 15:11; Genesis 1:27; Matthew 5:16; John 14:3
Because it answers life’s most puzzling questions:
A. Where did I come from? God created us in His image. We did not accidentally emerge as nondescript globs from some primeval slime. We are sons and daughters of God, the Mighty King (Galatians 3:26). We are so precious to God that when Adam and Eve sinned, He gave His Son to die and pay the penalty for our sins so we could be free. He wants to restore us to His image and then, shortly, take us back to Eden, the home Adam and Eve lost.
B. Why am I here? Our aims for life today should be to discover the Bible’s wonderful answers to life’s puzzling problems and to accept Jesus’ offer to restore us to Him image (Romans 8:29).
C. What does the future hold for me? There is no guesswork about the future. Jesus will come very soon to take His people to the fabulous home He has prepared for them in heaven. There, with supreme joy and happiness, people will live forever (John 14:1-3; Revelation 21:3, 4).
13. I am thankful to God for giving me positive answers to life’s most puzzling questions.
O YES
O NO
Yes, Bible historical statements are accurate. What God says in His book is true. Sometimes, temporarily, evidence may not be found to substantiate certain historical facts from the Bible, but in time the evidence surface. Note the following:
A. For years skeptics said the Bible was unreliable because it mentions the Hittite nation (Deut. 7:1) and cities like Nineveh (Jonah 1:1, 2) and Sodom (Gen. 19:1), which they denied ever existed. But now modern archaeology has confirmed that all three did, indeed, exist.
B. Critics also said that Bible-mentioned kings Belshazzar (Dan. 5:1) and Sargon (Isa. 20:1) never existed. Once again, it has now been confirmed they did exist.
C. Skeptics also said the Bible record of Moses was not reliable because it mentions writing (Exo. 24:4) and wheeled vehicles (Exo. 14:25), neither of which they said existed at the time. They, of course, know better today.
D. At one time the 39 kings of ancient Israel and Judah who reigned during the divided kingdom were authenticated only from the Bible record, so critics charged fabrication. But then archaeologists found cuneiform records that mentioned many of these kings and, once again, the Bible record was proved accurate. Critics have repeatedly been proved wrong as new discoveries confirm biblical people, places, and events. It will always be so.
7. One of the greatest miracles of the Bible is its unity. Please ponder the following amazing facts:
A. The 66 books of the Bible were written:
1. On three continents.
2. In three languages.
3. By about 40 different people (kings, shepherds, scientists, attorneys, an army general, fishermen, priests, and a physician).
4. Over a period of about 1,500 years.
5. On the most controversial subjects.
6. By people who, in most cases, had never met.
7. By authors whose education and background varied greatly.
B. Yet, though it seems totally inconceivable,
1. The 66 books maintain harmony with each other.
2. Often new concepts on a subject are expressed, but these concepts do not undermine what other Bible writers say on the same subject.
C. Talk about astounding!
Ask people who have viewed an identical event to each give a report of what happened. They will differ widely and will virtually always contradict each other in some way. Yet the Bible, penned by 40 writers over a 1,500-year period, reads as if written by one great mind. And, indeed, it was: “Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21. The Holy Ghost “moved” them all. He is the real Bible Author. The four Gospels do sometimes differ in the way they report the same event, but they complement each other.
8. What evidence of Bible inspiration is found in the lives of people? 2 Corinthians 5:17
The changed lives of those who follow Jesus and obey Scripture constitute the most heartwarming proof of Bible inspiration. The drunkard becomes sober; the immoral, pure; the addicted, free; the profane, reverent; the fearful, courageous; and the rude, kind. An American skeptic was visiting an island whose natives were originally cannibals. When he spotted an old man reading the Bible, he ridiculed him for reading a book “full of myths which had already been exposed.” The native smiled at him and said, “My friend, be grateful we do believe this book. Otherwise, we would be serving you for dinner.” The Bible really does change people, and this amazing fact confirms its inspiration.
9. What evidence for Bible inspiration emerges when we compare Old Testament prophecies of the coming Messiah with New Testament happenings in the life of Jesus? Luke 24:27; Acts 18:28
The Old Testament predictions of the Messiah to come were so specific and so clearly fulfilled by Jesus of Nazareth that both Jesus and Apollos used these prophecies to prove to the Jews that Jesus was, indeed, the Messiah. There are more than 125 of these prophecies. Let’s review just 12 of them:
Prophecy Old Testament Scripture New Testament Scripture
1.Born in Bethlehem Micah 5:2 Matthew 2:1
2.Born of a Virgin Isaiah 7:14 Matthew 1:18-23
3.Of David’s lineage Jeremiah 23:5 Revelation 22:16
4.Attempted murder by Herod Jeremiah 31:15 Matthew 2:16-18
5.Betrayal by friend Psalm 41:9 John 13:18, 19, 26
6.Sold for 30 silver coins Zechariah 11:12 Matthew 26:14-16
7.Crucified Zechariah 12:10 John 19:16-18, 37
8.Lots cast for His clothes Psalms 22:18 Matthew 27:35
9.No bones broken Psalms 34:20, Exodus 12:46 John 19:31-36
10. Buried in rich man’s tomb Isaiah 53:9 Matthew 27:57-60
11.Year, day, hour of his death Daniel 9:26, 27, Exodus 12:6 Matthew 27:45-50
12.Raised the third day Hosea 6:2 Acts 10:38-40
Dr. Peter Stoner, former chairman of the departments of mathematics, astronomy, and engineering at Pasadena College (California), worked with 600 students for several years applying the “principle of probability” to the prophecies of the Messiah’s coming. They chose just eight from the many available and finally decided the chances of all eight being fulfilled in one man in a lifetime is one in 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000. What would the odds be on the more than 125 prophecies of the Messiah? It couldn’t just happen!
10. What great advantage does a person have who accepts the Bible as God’s inspired word? Psalms 119:98, 100; Isaiah 55:9
A person who accepts the Word of God will soon know the answers too many complex challenges that secular scholars will never figure out. For example, the Bible teaches:
A. God created the earth and all living organisms in six literal, 24-hour days (Exodus 20:11; Psalms 33:6, 9).
B. A worldwide flood destroyed every living thing except the sea life and what was inside Noah’s ark (Genesis Ch. 6, 7, 8).
C. The different languages of the world began at the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:19).
God, who has always existed and knows everything, shares the above three truths with us, recognizing that we could never figure them out on our own. We know only “in part” now (1 Corinthians 13:9). And God’s knowledge is “past finding out” Romans 11:33. Evolutionists will never know the age of the earth because it was created with apparent age, as were Adam and Eve. The couples were only one day old on their second day of life, but they appeared to be mature. Man’s measuring instruments cannot allow for apparent age. In such cases, they are not trustworthy. Believe the Bible, and you will always be ahead of the speculation of secular scholars and the worldly-wise.
11. What crucial world happenings have brought the power and appeal of the Bible into sharp focus?
The failure and collapse of communism and the weakening and inconsistency of the theory of evolution have spotlighted the Bible. Evolution, like communism, is losing its grip and credibility. We must remember that it is nothing more than an unproved, shaky theory. The atheistic theory of evolution that humans and apes came from common ancestors scorns the concepts that people were created in the image of God. It denies the existence of God, totally disavows Jesus as Savior, negates the Bible, and ridicules the truth of an eternal home in heaven. Satan loves the evolution theory because it destroys the credibility of salvation. Communists are learning. Will we?
12. Why does the Bible have such universal appeal? Psalms 119:105; John 15:11; Genesis 1:27; Matthew 5:16; John 14:3
Because it answers life’s most puzzling questions:
A. Where did I come from? God created us in His image. We did not accidentally emerge as nondescript globs from some primeval slime. We are sons and daughters of God, the Mighty King (Galatians 3:26). We are so precious to God that when Adam and Eve sinned, He gave His Son to die and pay the penalty for our sins so we could be free. He wants to restore us to His image and then, shortly, take us back to Eden, the home Adam and Eve lost.
B. Why am I here? Our aims for life today should be to discover the Bible’s wonderful answers to life’s puzzling problems and to accept Jesus’ offer to restore us to Him image (Romans 8:29).
C. What does the future hold for me? There is no guesswork about the future. Jesus will come very soon to take His people to the fabulous home He has prepared for them in heaven. There, with supreme joy and happiness, people will live forever (John 14:1-3; Revelation 21:3, 4).
13. I am thankful to God for giving me positive answers to life’s most puzzling questions.
O YES
O NO
Friday, June 26, 2009
Matthew 6
Matthew 6
DO GOOD TO PLEASE GOD
Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.
THE MODEL PRAYER
And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the cornered of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. In this manner; therefore, pray:
Our father in heaven,
Hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver is from the evil one.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
FASTING TO BE SEEN ONLY BY GOD
Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.
LAY UP TREASURES IN HEAVEN
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where you treasures is, there your heart will be also.
THE LAMP OF THE BODY
The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
YOU CANNOT SERVE GOD AND RICHES
No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.
DO NOT WORRY
Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
ON THE EDGE:
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you (Matt. 6:33).
No matter what the decision, you can take your advice from Matthew 6:33 and do what Jesus said: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” When trying to decide which option is best or what path to choose, ask yourself, “Which way would bring God glory?” If God would be honored in any decision, then choose the one you like the most. God hasn’t put you on earth to make you miserable. A lot of Christians mistakenly think that the most miserable option must surely be God’s will. That’s not true. God has given you preferences and passions on purpose. He knows you will accomplish more for the kingdom when you are working in an area you love. If bringing God glory is your first priority, then you will always make wise decisions. They may sometimes be tough, but in the end, you will have made the right choice.
DO GOOD TO PLEASE GOD
Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.
THE MODEL PRAYER
And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the cornered of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. In this manner; therefore, pray:
Our father in heaven,
Hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver is from the evil one.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
FASTING TO BE SEEN ONLY BY GOD
Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.
LAY UP TREASURES IN HEAVEN
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where you treasures is, there your heart will be also.
THE LAMP OF THE BODY
The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
YOU CANNOT SERVE GOD AND RICHES
No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.
DO NOT WORRY
Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
ON THE EDGE:
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you (Matt. 6:33).
No matter what the decision, you can take your advice from Matthew 6:33 and do what Jesus said: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” When trying to decide which option is best or what path to choose, ask yourself, “Which way would bring God glory?” If God would be honored in any decision, then choose the one you like the most. God hasn’t put you on earth to make you miserable. A lot of Christians mistakenly think that the most miserable option must surely be God’s will. That’s not true. God has given you preferences and passions on purpose. He knows you will accomplish more for the kingdom when you are working in an area you love. If bringing God glory is your first priority, then you will always make wise decisions. They may sometimes be tough, but in the end, you will have made the right choice.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Lesson 1: Is There Anything Left You Can Trust?
In these morally challenged times – when billions are embezzled through corporate fraud; when trusted, spiritual leaders prove false; when lying in politics seems to be the norm; when those you depend on the most often hurt you the deepest – is there anything left you can trust? Yes! You can fully trust the Bible! Why? Just take a look at the evidence….
1. What does the Bible claim about itself? 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21; John 10:35
It claims to be inspired. It was written by men who were guided by the Holy Ghost. It cannot be broken or proved untrue.
2. How did Jesus demonstrate His confidence and belief in Scripture? Matthew 4:4,7,10; John 17:17
Jesus quoted Scripture when meeting the temptations of Satan. He also stated that the Bible is truth. Jesus often quoted Scripture as authority for the truth He was teaching.
3. Do Bible prophecies confirm inspiration? Isaiah 42:8,9; Isaiah 46:9,10
Bible predictions of things to happen in the future confirm the inspiration of Scripture as they come to pass. Notice the following examples of fulfilled Bible prophecies:
A. Four would empires to arise: Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome (Daniel 2,7,8)
B. Cyrus to be the warrior to capture Babylon (Isaiah 45:1-3).
C. After Babylon’s destruction, it would never be inhabited again (Isaiah 13:19, 20; Jeremiah 51:37).
D. Egypt would never again have a commanding position among the nations (Ezekiel 29:14, 15; 30:12, 13).
E. Earth-shaking calamities and fear toward the end of time (Luke 21:25, 26).
F. Moral degeneracy and decline of spirituality in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1-5).
4. Can we expect scientific statements made in the Bible to be accurate? Psalms 119:160; John 16:13
Yes, the Bible is true. The Holy Spirit, who guided the Bible writers, always speaks the truth. Here are a few Bible statements that have been confirmed by science:
A. “He….hangeth the earth upon nothing.” Job 26:7. This scientific fact is from Job, the Bible’s oldest book.
B. “He…sitteth upon the circle of the earth.” Isaiah 40:22. The Bible said the earth is round centuries before man found out.
C. “To make the weight for the winds.” Job 28:25. Long before scientists knew, God said air has weight.
D. “By Him (Jesus) all things consist.” Colossians 1:17. The word “consist” here literally means “hold together” or “cohere.” Many Bible translations put it “hold together.” This is the answer to the nuclear physicists’ worrisome question about the atom. The real mystery of the atom does not involve its benumbing mega-power, but rather, “Why doesn’t the atom fly apart?” Scientific knowledge says it should, but it doesn’t. Some scientists are wondering what puzzling power, completely unknown to them, is holding it together. The Bible says that mysterious power is the Creator, God Himself.
5. Are biblical health principles tuned to the twenty-first century mind?
A. Cover body waste with dirt (Deuteronomy 23:12, 13). The Bible provision of Moses’ day that body waste should be buried was 3,500 years ahead of its time and saved countless thousands of Jewish lives. Major problems still arise when sanitation is not properly handled.
B. “Neither let us commit fornication.” 1 Corinthians 10:8. The word “fornication” denoted all kinds of immoral sexual conduct. There would be no AIDS epidemic if this up-to-date Bible counsel were obeyed, nor would abortion be the international scandal that it now is.
C. Leave alcoholic beverages alone (Proverbs 23:29-32). If this extremely effective Bible solution were implemented, just think what it would mean:
1. Millions of alcoholics becoming sober, respectable citizens.
2. Millions of families reunited.
3. Millions of broken homes mended.
4. Multiplied thousands of lives saved by sober driving.
5. Thousands of government, business, and professional leaders making clear-minded decisions.
6. Billions of dollars available for humanitarian use.
Note: God not only tells us how to succeed with joy amid today’s harrowing problems, but He also gives us the miraculous power to do it (1 Corinthians 15:57; Philippians 4:13; Romans 1:16). Bible Health principles are relevant and desperately needed, but few are listening.
1. What does the Bible claim about itself? 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21; John 10:35
It claims to be inspired. It was written by men who were guided by the Holy Ghost. It cannot be broken or proved untrue.
2. How did Jesus demonstrate His confidence and belief in Scripture? Matthew 4:4,7,10; John 17:17
Jesus quoted Scripture when meeting the temptations of Satan. He also stated that the Bible is truth. Jesus often quoted Scripture as authority for the truth He was teaching.
3. Do Bible prophecies confirm inspiration? Isaiah 42:8,9; Isaiah 46:9,10
Bible predictions of things to happen in the future confirm the inspiration of Scripture as they come to pass. Notice the following examples of fulfilled Bible prophecies:
A. Four would empires to arise: Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome (Daniel 2,7,8)
B. Cyrus to be the warrior to capture Babylon (Isaiah 45:1-3).
C. After Babylon’s destruction, it would never be inhabited again (Isaiah 13:19, 20; Jeremiah 51:37).
D. Egypt would never again have a commanding position among the nations (Ezekiel 29:14, 15; 30:12, 13).
E. Earth-shaking calamities and fear toward the end of time (Luke 21:25, 26).
F. Moral degeneracy and decline of spirituality in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1-5).
4. Can we expect scientific statements made in the Bible to be accurate? Psalms 119:160; John 16:13
Yes, the Bible is true. The Holy Spirit, who guided the Bible writers, always speaks the truth. Here are a few Bible statements that have been confirmed by science:
A. “He….hangeth the earth upon nothing.” Job 26:7. This scientific fact is from Job, the Bible’s oldest book.
B. “He…sitteth upon the circle of the earth.” Isaiah 40:22. The Bible said the earth is round centuries before man found out.
C. “To make the weight for the winds.” Job 28:25. Long before scientists knew, God said air has weight.
D. “By Him (Jesus) all things consist.” Colossians 1:17. The word “consist” here literally means “hold together” or “cohere.” Many Bible translations put it “hold together.” This is the answer to the nuclear physicists’ worrisome question about the atom. The real mystery of the atom does not involve its benumbing mega-power, but rather, “Why doesn’t the atom fly apart?” Scientific knowledge says it should, but it doesn’t. Some scientists are wondering what puzzling power, completely unknown to them, is holding it together. The Bible says that mysterious power is the Creator, God Himself.
5. Are biblical health principles tuned to the twenty-first century mind?
A. Cover body waste with dirt (Deuteronomy 23:12, 13). The Bible provision of Moses’ day that body waste should be buried was 3,500 years ahead of its time and saved countless thousands of Jewish lives. Major problems still arise when sanitation is not properly handled.
B. “Neither let us commit fornication.” 1 Corinthians 10:8. The word “fornication” denoted all kinds of immoral sexual conduct. There would be no AIDS epidemic if this up-to-date Bible counsel were obeyed, nor would abortion be the international scandal that it now is.
C. Leave alcoholic beverages alone (Proverbs 23:29-32). If this extremely effective Bible solution were implemented, just think what it would mean:
1. Millions of alcoholics becoming sober, respectable citizens.
2. Millions of families reunited.
3. Millions of broken homes mended.
4. Multiplied thousands of lives saved by sober driving.
5. Thousands of government, business, and professional leaders making clear-minded decisions.
6. Billions of dollars available for humanitarian use.
Note: God not only tells us how to succeed with joy amid today’s harrowing problems, but He also gives us the miraculous power to do it (1 Corinthians 15:57; Philippians 4:13; Romans 1:16). Bible Health principles are relevant and desperately needed, but few are listening.
Friday, May 22, 2009
What the Bible Says
The Bible records many cataclysmic events some have already occurred many are yet to come. Noah’s flood (Genesis Ch. 6&7) the separation of the continents (Genesis 10:25), the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah all weigh in on the cataclysmic scale, and involve the participation of the heavens and earth.
The futuristic events outlined in scripture will have an immense global impact. The sequential effects of the 7 seals, 7 trumpets, and 7 bowls described in the Book of Revelation chapter 6 and following, are on a scale previously unknown or experienced by mankind.
Regardless of your rapture view and expectation, these events will occur. The world and mankind will remain until the end of the age. It is no longer risky to declare we are living in the last days of mankind, as we currently know them. With the nation of Israel as our prophetic time clock, we can easily conclude the last days are here. The establishment of Israel as a nation in 1948, their subsequent retaking of Jerusalem and the temple area are key events. The process of re-gathering the Jews to their home land according to prophecy is enough to settle the issue for most Christians. If one takes into account other related world events such as the assembling of the revived Roman Empire, the alignment of Russia (Gog) and the former soviet union (Magog-Ezekiel Chapter 38 &39). The preparedness of the Jews to rebuild the temple (Daniel 9:26, 27; Revelation 11:1,2). The emphasis on a new world order and countless other prophetic events, point to the fact we are rapidly approaching the end. International pressure on Israel to sign a Middle East peace agreement is unrelenting. We know the signing of the peace agreement will activate the 70th week of Daniel and mark the beginning of the final 7 years of this age (Daniel 9:25-27). Needless to say, we are experiencing the words of Jesus:
And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceivers you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ’, and will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilence, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:4-14
Jesus told us to take heed that no one deceives us regarding the end of the age and the coming of the Lord.
The Lord will use signs in the sky to inform us who understand His working with mankind and His time table. In the very beginning of creation, God created planets, stars, constellations, the sun and moon in order to communicate with us:
Then God said, “Let there be light in the firmament of the heavens to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs and seasons, and for days and years;….” Genesis 1:14
God created our solar system to give us an accurate means to mark the time and seasons. The deeper intent of God in the lights was to signal to us His coming and the set time of convening His appointed feasts.
Gods time table and workings with man are revealed in His appointed feasts, the cycles of 7, and the sabbatical years.
Jesus has fulfilled the first 4 feasts through His life, death, and resurrection. The final 3 feasts are awaiting fulfillment by Him. These feasts as recorded in Leviticus 23:1-44.
1. Passover- Fulfilled by Christ as the sacrificial lamb (1 Cor. 5:7; 1 Peter 2:24).
2. Unleavened Bread- Fulfilled by Christ, the sinless offering (2 Cor. 5:21; 1 John 3:5).
3. First Fruits- Fulfilled by the resurrection of Christ (1 Cor. 15:19-23).
4. Pentecost- Fulfilled by Christ who sent the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4; Romans 8:9).
5. Trumpets- (Rosh Hashanah) Unfulfilled prophecy of tribulation and rapture (1 Thess. 4:16-17; Rev. 8:2,6).
6. Atonement- (Tom Kippur) Unfulfilled prophecy of Christ’s second coming and redemption (Heb. 10:3-4; Is. 66:5-9).
7. Tabernacles- (Sukkot) Unfulfilled, the 1000 year reign, God dwelling with man (Rev. 21:3).
While the first 4 feasts occur in close proximity during the spring, and entire season passes before the fall feasts begin. This long period represents the age of grace, the church age we are now living in. The last 3 feasts are observed in the fall and remain to be prophetically fulfilled at Christ’s return.
God uses signs in the sky to signal to us what is approaching: Concerning the timing of the opening of the 6th seal, (Revelation 6:12) which will unleash cosmic upheaval and terror on mankind, God will give to mankind a clear signal in the heavens, the end of the tribulation is near. Before the subsequent 7th seal, trumpets, and bowls are unleashed; God will give the nations one final chance to call upon Him for salvation, redemption, and the release from the coming wrath of God;
“Immediately after the tribulation of those days, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of heavens will be shaken. Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” Matthew 24:29-31
The prophet Joel also prophesies of this time:
“I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs in the earth beneath: Blood and fire and vapor of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:19-21
Could this be planet X described by Joel? Could it be the star Wormwood (Revelation 8:10-11)? Possibly. However, there are coming lunar and solar events sent by God to clearly communicate to us:
In 2014 and 2015 there will be four lunar eclipses and two solar eclipses, all occurring on Jewish feasts. NASA describes these occurrences as a “tetrad”, a rare series of blood red moons.
The last time this occurred in recent history was in 1948 and 1967. In 1948 Israel once again became a nation. In 1967 the Jewish people recaptured Jerusalem. It seem as though God marks significant events with lunar signs.
The four lunar eclipses are scheduled as follows; listed first by the Gentile calendar then the Jewish calendar:
April 15, 2014- Nisan 16, 5774- Feast of First Fruits
October 8, 2014- Tishri 15, 5775- Feast of Tabernacles
April 4, 2015- Nisan 15, 5775- Feast of Unleavened Bread
September 28, 2015- Tishri 15, 5776- Feast of Tabernacles
The four solar eclipses are scheduled as follows:
April 29, 2014 (total eclipse) Nisan 29, 5774
October 23, 2014 (partial) Tishri 29, 5775
March 20, 2015 (Eve of Sacred Year) Adar 29, 5775
September 30, 2015- After 6pm to be seen on feast of Trumpets.
God is still speaking, still calling out. We know that 2012 is not the end of the world. God has made covenant promises to us regarding the heavens and the earth.
“This says the Lord who gives sun for a light by day, the ordinances of the moon and the stars for a light by night, who disturbs the sea, and its waves roar (the Lord of Hosts is His name): “If those ordinances depart from before Me, says the Lord, then the seed of Israel shall also cease from being a nation before Me forever.”
Thus says the Lord:
“If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done says the Lord.” Jeremiah 31:35-37
Though NASA tries to search out the foundations of the earth and measure the heavens, they will be unsuccessful. As long as the sun rises and sets, we can remain calm. God has an everlasting covenant with Israel, they will never cease to exist, and therefore we can be certain the earth and heavens will remain. The devil would like nothing better than to bring the end of the world in 2012. This changing of the times and seasons (Daniel 7:23-25) would circumvent his destruction and leave him as the god of this world.
God is not going to let this happen. The earth will continue on as the Lord has declared.
“While the earth remains, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.” Genesis 8:22
These are comforting words to us while the earth remains. There is coming a day in the not so distant future when the earth will no longer remain (2 Peter 3:10-13). However, December 21, 2012 is not that day.
The signs of the times are for our comfort and understanding. The greatest days for the church as the Bride of Christ are ahead. Great moves of healing, holiness and harvest are ready to be engaged. It is time for the Bride to make herself ready (Revelation 19:7).
“Now when you see all these things come to pass lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” Luke 21:28
If you don’t know the eternal destination of your soul as we enter into these epic times, you can experience the peace and assurance of God right now, today. Read on to discover how.
Many uprights, studious Christians believe the beginning of the tribulation period could start in 2009 and culminate in 2016. Those who hold a pretribulation rapture position believe the next event on God’s calendar is the rapture of the church. Others will simply need to add 7 years to the equation once the action starts. While it seems plausible a nuclear war between Iran and Israel is on the radar, the total destruction of the oldest inhabited city of Damascus would clearly mark end time events. Russia and its Arab/Islamic partners are ready to move on Israel with nuclear forces. Whether it is planet X, the “dark rift”, or nuclear war you must be ready spiritually. Jesus Christ, the Prophet of God, the Son of God is the only Way, the Truth, and the Life. He declares no one comes to the Father (GOD) except through Him. Jesus sacrifices His life on the cross of Calvary to pay the price for our sin and reconcile us unto God. The Bible declares that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness. This simple yet sincere act of believing Christ is our Savior, coming to Him, confessing our sinfulness is the way of salvation. The Bible declares one must be born again (spiritually from above) to see and enter the Kingdom of God (heaven).
The scriptures in the New Testament Book of Romans put the gospel truth forward like this:
“But what does it say? ‘The word is near you, in your mouth and in your hearts (that is the word of faith we preach) ‘that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.’ For the scripture says, ‘Whoever believe on Him will not be put to shame.’ For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For whomever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:8-13
If you have made this simple prayer of faith to God, confessing your sinfulness, believing in forgiveness of your sin through the shed blood of Jesus Christ, you are saved, born again! You now have everlasting life in paradise with God, and the indwelling presence and witness of His Holy Spirit in your heart. Now it is time to connect with other believers, attend a local church that sings vibrant praise to God and preaches the word of God faithfully. You see, it’s not the end, but a new beginning that awaits us rejoice! Diamonds may last forever, but every forever must have a beginning. This is your day to trust in Christ Jesus for salvation, for a certain future regardless of what comes your way. It is your day to begin forever.
Got material from “Is 2012 the End of the World” by Randy DeMain
The futuristic events outlined in scripture will have an immense global impact. The sequential effects of the 7 seals, 7 trumpets, and 7 bowls described in the Book of Revelation chapter 6 and following, are on a scale previously unknown or experienced by mankind.
Regardless of your rapture view and expectation, these events will occur. The world and mankind will remain until the end of the age. It is no longer risky to declare we are living in the last days of mankind, as we currently know them. With the nation of Israel as our prophetic time clock, we can easily conclude the last days are here. The establishment of Israel as a nation in 1948, their subsequent retaking of Jerusalem and the temple area are key events. The process of re-gathering the Jews to their home land according to prophecy is enough to settle the issue for most Christians. If one takes into account other related world events such as the assembling of the revived Roman Empire, the alignment of Russia (Gog) and the former soviet union (Magog-Ezekiel Chapter 38 &39). The preparedness of the Jews to rebuild the temple (Daniel 9:26, 27; Revelation 11:1,2). The emphasis on a new world order and countless other prophetic events, point to the fact we are rapidly approaching the end. International pressure on Israel to sign a Middle East peace agreement is unrelenting. We know the signing of the peace agreement will activate the 70th week of Daniel and mark the beginning of the final 7 years of this age (Daniel 9:25-27). Needless to say, we are experiencing the words of Jesus:
And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceivers you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ’, and will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilence, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:4-14
Jesus told us to take heed that no one deceives us regarding the end of the age and the coming of the Lord.
The Lord will use signs in the sky to inform us who understand His working with mankind and His time table. In the very beginning of creation, God created planets, stars, constellations, the sun and moon in order to communicate with us:
Then God said, “Let there be light in the firmament of the heavens to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs and seasons, and for days and years;….” Genesis 1:14
God created our solar system to give us an accurate means to mark the time and seasons. The deeper intent of God in the lights was to signal to us His coming and the set time of convening His appointed feasts.
Gods time table and workings with man are revealed in His appointed feasts, the cycles of 7, and the sabbatical years.
Jesus has fulfilled the first 4 feasts through His life, death, and resurrection. The final 3 feasts are awaiting fulfillment by Him. These feasts as recorded in Leviticus 23:1-44.
1. Passover- Fulfilled by Christ as the sacrificial lamb (1 Cor. 5:7; 1 Peter 2:24).
2. Unleavened Bread- Fulfilled by Christ, the sinless offering (2 Cor. 5:21; 1 John 3:5).
3. First Fruits- Fulfilled by the resurrection of Christ (1 Cor. 15:19-23).
4. Pentecost- Fulfilled by Christ who sent the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4; Romans 8:9).
5. Trumpets- (Rosh Hashanah) Unfulfilled prophecy of tribulation and rapture (1 Thess. 4:16-17; Rev. 8:2,6).
6. Atonement- (Tom Kippur) Unfulfilled prophecy of Christ’s second coming and redemption (Heb. 10:3-4; Is. 66:5-9).
7. Tabernacles- (Sukkot) Unfulfilled, the 1000 year reign, God dwelling with man (Rev. 21:3).
While the first 4 feasts occur in close proximity during the spring, and entire season passes before the fall feasts begin. This long period represents the age of grace, the church age we are now living in. The last 3 feasts are observed in the fall and remain to be prophetically fulfilled at Christ’s return.
God uses signs in the sky to signal to us what is approaching: Concerning the timing of the opening of the 6th seal, (Revelation 6:12) which will unleash cosmic upheaval and terror on mankind, God will give to mankind a clear signal in the heavens, the end of the tribulation is near. Before the subsequent 7th seal, trumpets, and bowls are unleashed; God will give the nations one final chance to call upon Him for salvation, redemption, and the release from the coming wrath of God;
“Immediately after the tribulation of those days, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of heavens will be shaken. Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” Matthew 24:29-31
The prophet Joel also prophesies of this time:
“I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs in the earth beneath: Blood and fire and vapor of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:19-21
Could this be planet X described by Joel? Could it be the star Wormwood (Revelation 8:10-11)? Possibly. However, there are coming lunar and solar events sent by God to clearly communicate to us:
In 2014 and 2015 there will be four lunar eclipses and two solar eclipses, all occurring on Jewish feasts. NASA describes these occurrences as a “tetrad”, a rare series of blood red moons.
The last time this occurred in recent history was in 1948 and 1967. In 1948 Israel once again became a nation. In 1967 the Jewish people recaptured Jerusalem. It seem as though God marks significant events with lunar signs.
The four lunar eclipses are scheduled as follows; listed first by the Gentile calendar then the Jewish calendar:
April 15, 2014- Nisan 16, 5774- Feast of First Fruits
October 8, 2014- Tishri 15, 5775- Feast of Tabernacles
April 4, 2015- Nisan 15, 5775- Feast of Unleavened Bread
September 28, 2015- Tishri 15, 5776- Feast of Tabernacles
The four solar eclipses are scheduled as follows:
April 29, 2014 (total eclipse) Nisan 29, 5774
October 23, 2014 (partial) Tishri 29, 5775
March 20, 2015 (Eve of Sacred Year) Adar 29, 5775
September 30, 2015- After 6pm to be seen on feast of Trumpets.
God is still speaking, still calling out. We know that 2012 is not the end of the world. God has made covenant promises to us regarding the heavens and the earth.
“This says the Lord who gives sun for a light by day, the ordinances of the moon and the stars for a light by night, who disturbs the sea, and its waves roar (the Lord of Hosts is His name): “If those ordinances depart from before Me, says the Lord, then the seed of Israel shall also cease from being a nation before Me forever.”
Thus says the Lord:
“If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done says the Lord.” Jeremiah 31:35-37
Though NASA tries to search out the foundations of the earth and measure the heavens, they will be unsuccessful. As long as the sun rises and sets, we can remain calm. God has an everlasting covenant with Israel, they will never cease to exist, and therefore we can be certain the earth and heavens will remain. The devil would like nothing better than to bring the end of the world in 2012. This changing of the times and seasons (Daniel 7:23-25) would circumvent his destruction and leave him as the god of this world.
God is not going to let this happen. The earth will continue on as the Lord has declared.
“While the earth remains, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.” Genesis 8:22
These are comforting words to us while the earth remains. There is coming a day in the not so distant future when the earth will no longer remain (2 Peter 3:10-13). However, December 21, 2012 is not that day.
The signs of the times are for our comfort and understanding. The greatest days for the church as the Bride of Christ are ahead. Great moves of healing, holiness and harvest are ready to be engaged. It is time for the Bride to make herself ready (Revelation 19:7).
“Now when you see all these things come to pass lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” Luke 21:28
If you don’t know the eternal destination of your soul as we enter into these epic times, you can experience the peace and assurance of God right now, today. Read on to discover how.
Many uprights, studious Christians believe the beginning of the tribulation period could start in 2009 and culminate in 2016. Those who hold a pretribulation rapture position believe the next event on God’s calendar is the rapture of the church. Others will simply need to add 7 years to the equation once the action starts. While it seems plausible a nuclear war between Iran and Israel is on the radar, the total destruction of the oldest inhabited city of Damascus would clearly mark end time events. Russia and its Arab/Islamic partners are ready to move on Israel with nuclear forces. Whether it is planet X, the “dark rift”, or nuclear war you must be ready spiritually. Jesus Christ, the Prophet of God, the Son of God is the only Way, the Truth, and the Life. He declares no one comes to the Father (GOD) except through Him. Jesus sacrifices His life on the cross of Calvary to pay the price for our sin and reconcile us unto God. The Bible declares that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness. This simple yet sincere act of believing Christ is our Savior, coming to Him, confessing our sinfulness is the way of salvation. The Bible declares one must be born again (spiritually from above) to see and enter the Kingdom of God (heaven).
The scriptures in the New Testament Book of Romans put the gospel truth forward like this:
“But what does it say? ‘The word is near you, in your mouth and in your hearts (that is the word of faith we preach) ‘that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.’ For the scripture says, ‘Whoever believe on Him will not be put to shame.’ For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For whomever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:8-13
If you have made this simple prayer of faith to God, confessing your sinfulness, believing in forgiveness of your sin through the shed blood of Jesus Christ, you are saved, born again! You now have everlasting life in paradise with God, and the indwelling presence and witness of His Holy Spirit in your heart. Now it is time to connect with other believers, attend a local church that sings vibrant praise to God and preaches the word of God faithfully. You see, it’s not the end, but a new beginning that awaits us rejoice! Diamonds may last forever, but every forever must have a beginning. This is your day to trust in Christ Jesus for salvation, for a certain future regardless of what comes your way. It is your day to begin forever.
Got material from “Is 2012 the End of the World” by Randy DeMain
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Is 2012 a Hoax?
Is the 2012 doomsday scenario a hoax? It appears there is some evidence to validate the utterance of ancient oracles. Some of the ancient seers were followers of God, most were not, and many were worshipers of the sun. Perhaps this is why they are articulate in astrological matters as they related to mankind.
I must state that I do not, in any manner, embrace or affirm prophecies that come from any source other than the Spirit of the Almighty God. The following information is a simple presentation of facts based on anthropological and scientific information obtained through hours of research.
Fact #1
The Mayan civilization was an advanced people particularly in the area of math and science. Their influence and symbolism is found in the pyramid of Giza. They developed the most accurate calendar to date based upon the lunar cycles of our galaxy. This calendar has precisely predicted the events on earth based upon planetary movement. NASA has proven the accuracy of the calendar with stunning consistency. A website you can discover interesting facts from NASA is: http:sunearth.gsfc.nasa.gov/eclipse/transit/venus0412.html
Fact #2
The Mayan prophesy declares December 12, 2012 the sun will rise on the “dark rift” of the center of our galaxy. The “dark rift” is the extension of the gravitational plane of the Milky Way extending from the center of our galaxy known as the black hole. In the past several years, astronomers have now discovered there is indeed a large black hole in the center of the Milky Way galaxy. The astronomers now conclude this passage is possible, and in fact concur the alignment to occur December 12, 2012. This alignment of the earth, the sun, and the center of the galaxy are reported to occur only once every 25,000-years. No one knows what the effect of the earth passing through the outer band of this rift will detail.
Fact #3
Many governmental agencies worldwide are aware of the upcoming galactic alignment and its possible consequences. Various countries are establishing underground bunkers called ARKS. These bunkers are replete with life sustaining commodities including seeds and other agricultural abilities to reestablish mankind after the galactic event. While there appears to be a program of disinformation going on regarding this event, insiders are leaking enough information to those who are persistent to validate the facts. Homeland Security has a survival guide related to planet X/Nibiru 2012. You can indirectly access the website: www.alpinesurvival.com/Homeland_Security_fema.html
Fact #4
NASA and Washington D.C. Naval Base Observatory have confirmed the existence of a rogue planet. This planet was photographed shortly after the launch of NASA’s Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS) June 26th, 1983. Astronomers calculate the newly discovered planet X was over 50 million miles away at the time. In 2004, the planet was discovered to be 7 million miles away, moving closer. Confirmation of the 10th planet, planet X was validated when it was photographed in Japan on February 28th, 2008. The anticipated arrival time into the direct orbit of the earth and sun is, December 21st, 2012, at its current rate of travel. This planet known to the ancients as Nibiru, planet X to contemporaries, has the ability to cause a “pole shift” reversing or altering the position of the gravitational poles of the earth. It can also pull unwanted solar debris into our gravitational grid allowing the possibility for some debris to detach and hit the earth. There is concern and speculation about the effects of planet X passing by us at Close proximity on its 3,600-year cycle. Some have conjectured the approach of planet X has already caused climatic changes and other disruptions. In related facts, scientist also know the frequency hum of the earth is rising. The earth hum was a constant 7.8 cycle frequency. This frequency has been used as a baseline for all communications. This has been changing, approaching the 11-cycle frequency. This is indicative of a pole shift and could account for radar alignment mishaps of whales and other migrating species, even the disappearance of honeybees. This frequency change also adversely affects human functions, brain waves and other important factors related to human existence.
Fact #5
It has been reported on Jews and Joes website (www.jewsandjoes.com) that the exact timing of these plausible events are uncertain. However, NASA has pinpointed 2008-2009 as the beginning of several cataclysmic events that will peak in 2012. Planet X will make its first pass into out direct orbit in 2009, its second pass in 2012. This information has been compiled from research from the horizon project (www.thehorizonproject.com). It is believed planet X will be visible to all by spring 2011 looking like a second sun.
Fact #6
Conspiracy theories abound regarding the Mayan calendar, Nibiru and the doomsday prophecies. Many believe it will be the new world order, some suggest it will usher in the return of Nephillum to repossess their bloodline lost in the days of Noah. Others call for a society of higher consciousness. The alarming issue is the lack of information, or misinformation being reported by the government and its related agencies. Many dismiss the coming events as nothing to concern us about. As true with all information, the source and motive of the information is critical to it validity. The U.S. government has an observatory recently constructed in the Antarctic. The observatory, like the Vatican’s newly erected observatory on Mt. Graham in Arizona is dedicated to the observation of planet X. The Amundsen-Scott South Pole station was erected to observe movement from the Southern Plane where Planet X can be seen.
Fact #7
The alignment of the Earth and sun with the center of our galaxy in 2012 is true. The earth will rotate through the “dark rift”, the galactic equinox in 2012. The existence of planet X is true. It has been discovered to have an elliptical orbit that would pattern an egg rather than a 360 degree circle. It orbits on a 3,600-year cycle, moving into our galaxy under the Southern Plane. These patterns of planet X make it difficult to see and track. Nevertheless, it is not in the beginning of the egg shaped arch moving around the outside of Mercury, then Venus, and the Earth. While the Earth rotates in its orbit, planet X comes in and out of our galaxy, and then moves into the outer parts of space. Humanity from its various origins of spirituality, humanism, and occult roots has attached various events to these long established planetary movements. Each associated prophecy seems to fit their respective agendas. There is a consistency to all of them because they are based on a system God created and put in order. God, interlocking with all of creation, especially the heavens, has established a system of time to fulfill human events.
It is true; the planetary events outlined in this blog are upon us. Just because they are true events in no manner validates the cult and occult prophesies attached to them. As it has been historically proven, the Holy Bible is the only tried, tested, and true source of prophecy. Will these events in outer space result in the end of the world? No, not exactly. The Bible reveals Gods plan for man and the earth requires the planet to remain here and functional beyond 2012. His plan also included the presence of mankind going about their daily business (Matthew 24:36-44). Next time I will discuss what the Bible says about the end of the age. While it is not 2012, it may be sooner than you think.
All information was taken out of the booklet “Is 2012 the End of the World” by Randy DeMain.
I must state that I do not, in any manner, embrace or affirm prophecies that come from any source other than the Spirit of the Almighty God. The following information is a simple presentation of facts based on anthropological and scientific information obtained through hours of research.
Fact #1
The Mayan civilization was an advanced people particularly in the area of math and science. Their influence and symbolism is found in the pyramid of Giza. They developed the most accurate calendar to date based upon the lunar cycles of our galaxy. This calendar has precisely predicted the events on earth based upon planetary movement. NASA has proven the accuracy of the calendar with stunning consistency. A website you can discover interesting facts from NASA is: http:sunearth.gsfc.nasa.gov/eclipse/transit/venus0412.html
Fact #2
The Mayan prophesy declares December 12, 2012 the sun will rise on the “dark rift” of the center of our galaxy. The “dark rift” is the extension of the gravitational plane of the Milky Way extending from the center of our galaxy known as the black hole. In the past several years, astronomers have now discovered there is indeed a large black hole in the center of the Milky Way galaxy. The astronomers now conclude this passage is possible, and in fact concur the alignment to occur December 12, 2012. This alignment of the earth, the sun, and the center of the galaxy are reported to occur only once every 25,000-years. No one knows what the effect of the earth passing through the outer band of this rift will detail.
Fact #3
Many governmental agencies worldwide are aware of the upcoming galactic alignment and its possible consequences. Various countries are establishing underground bunkers called ARKS. These bunkers are replete with life sustaining commodities including seeds and other agricultural abilities to reestablish mankind after the galactic event. While there appears to be a program of disinformation going on regarding this event, insiders are leaking enough information to those who are persistent to validate the facts. Homeland Security has a survival guide related to planet X/Nibiru 2012. You can indirectly access the website: www.alpinesurvival.com/Homeland_Security_fema.html
Fact #4
NASA and Washington D.C. Naval Base Observatory have confirmed the existence of a rogue planet. This planet was photographed shortly after the launch of NASA’s Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS) June 26th, 1983. Astronomers calculate the newly discovered planet X was over 50 million miles away at the time. In 2004, the planet was discovered to be 7 million miles away, moving closer. Confirmation of the 10th planet, planet X was validated when it was photographed in Japan on February 28th, 2008. The anticipated arrival time into the direct orbit of the earth and sun is, December 21st, 2012, at its current rate of travel. This planet known to the ancients as Nibiru, planet X to contemporaries, has the ability to cause a “pole shift” reversing or altering the position of the gravitational poles of the earth. It can also pull unwanted solar debris into our gravitational grid allowing the possibility for some debris to detach and hit the earth. There is concern and speculation about the effects of planet X passing by us at Close proximity on its 3,600-year cycle. Some have conjectured the approach of planet X has already caused climatic changes and other disruptions. In related facts, scientist also know the frequency hum of the earth is rising. The earth hum was a constant 7.8 cycle frequency. This frequency has been used as a baseline for all communications. This has been changing, approaching the 11-cycle frequency. This is indicative of a pole shift and could account for radar alignment mishaps of whales and other migrating species, even the disappearance of honeybees. This frequency change also adversely affects human functions, brain waves and other important factors related to human existence.
Fact #5
It has been reported on Jews and Joes website (www.jewsandjoes.com) that the exact timing of these plausible events are uncertain. However, NASA has pinpointed 2008-2009 as the beginning of several cataclysmic events that will peak in 2012. Planet X will make its first pass into out direct orbit in 2009, its second pass in 2012. This information has been compiled from research from the horizon project (www.thehorizonproject.com). It is believed planet X will be visible to all by spring 2011 looking like a second sun.
Fact #6
Conspiracy theories abound regarding the Mayan calendar, Nibiru and the doomsday prophecies. Many believe it will be the new world order, some suggest it will usher in the return of Nephillum to repossess their bloodline lost in the days of Noah. Others call for a society of higher consciousness. The alarming issue is the lack of information, or misinformation being reported by the government and its related agencies. Many dismiss the coming events as nothing to concern us about. As true with all information, the source and motive of the information is critical to it validity. The U.S. government has an observatory recently constructed in the Antarctic. The observatory, like the Vatican’s newly erected observatory on Mt. Graham in Arizona is dedicated to the observation of planet X. The Amundsen-Scott South Pole station was erected to observe movement from the Southern Plane where Planet X can be seen.
Fact #7
The alignment of the Earth and sun with the center of our galaxy in 2012 is true. The earth will rotate through the “dark rift”, the galactic equinox in 2012. The existence of planet X is true. It has been discovered to have an elliptical orbit that would pattern an egg rather than a 360 degree circle. It orbits on a 3,600-year cycle, moving into our galaxy under the Southern Plane. These patterns of planet X make it difficult to see and track. Nevertheless, it is not in the beginning of the egg shaped arch moving around the outside of Mercury, then Venus, and the Earth. While the Earth rotates in its orbit, planet X comes in and out of our galaxy, and then moves into the outer parts of space. Humanity from its various origins of spirituality, humanism, and occult roots has attached various events to these long established planetary movements. Each associated prophecy seems to fit their respective agendas. There is a consistency to all of them because they are based on a system God created and put in order. God, interlocking with all of creation, especially the heavens, has established a system of time to fulfill human events.
It is true; the planetary events outlined in this blog are upon us. Just because they are true events in no manner validates the cult and occult prophesies attached to them. As it has been historically proven, the Holy Bible is the only tried, tested, and true source of prophecy. Will these events in outer space result in the end of the world? No, not exactly. The Bible reveals Gods plan for man and the earth requires the planet to remain here and functional beyond 2012. His plan also included the presence of mankind going about their daily business (Matthew 24:36-44). Next time I will discuss what the Bible says about the end of the age. While it is not 2012, it may be sooner than you think.
All information was taken out of the booklet “Is 2012 the End of the World” by Randy DeMain.
Prophecies of the End
Many voices are predicting the end of this age, the world as we know it, December 21, 2012 at 11:11pm.
Century old prophecies have begun to surface again in our time. People want to know what the future holds; they are looking to various sources to prepare themselves for what is ahead.
Some predict the end of the age, the coming forth of a new golden age. Others are more of the doomsday type oracles expounding vivid images of global destructions. These disruptions, they say will cataclysmic storms, earthquakes, volcanoes, and tidal waves.
The Mayan calendar is the primary sources fueling the secular search for answers regarding the future. This calendar developed by the Mayans began keeping time in 3114 BC. It is credited to be the most accurate calendar known to mankind. It has predicted astrological events perfectly to date for thousands of years. It is based on a 5,125-year cycle, a cycle that ends December 21, 2012. At this time the calendar resents its long count to zero. This is perceived by many to indicate the end of time.
In addition, to this calendar event, the Mayans also have prophesied the alignment of the earth, the sun, and the black hole of the Milky Way galaxy based on their calendar. They prophesy the earth will pass through the “dark rift” of the galaxies gravitational field/plane. The passing will result in tremendous gravitational forces being exerted upon the earth, enough force to cause a “pole shift”, the reversal of the poles of the earth. Along with the reversal of poles will come the onslaught of solar flares and orbital debris rendering great harm and destruction to the earth. The pole shifts could trigger volcanoes, earthquakes, tidal waves and climate shift, all culminating December 21, 2012.
I Ching, the 5,000-year-old method of prognostication practiced by the Chinese also ends all its measurement of time on December 21, 2012. I Ching graphs have predicted the fall of the Roman Empire, the discovery of the new World and Wars in the 20th century through interpretation of 5 coins relating to 64 squares. Concurring with the Mayan, the Chinese agree with a various company of seers down through the ages, whose oracles in some manner set forth the timing of the end of the world.
Merlin the magician, Mother Shipton and the Sybiline prophecies from Rome in 6 BC have similar musings. Many Indian tribes speak of similar events and dates, most notably the Hopi tribe, *The Blackhawk’s and the Sioux ghost dancers.
Perhaps the most interesting contributor is the non-human oracle known as Web bot. Web bots are designed to search the users of the Internet to gain the “collective consciousness” of the World to capture future financial trends, choices, and activates. Interestingly enough it predicted the stock market crash associated with the terrorist attack in America on 9-11-01 right on time.
The 2012 doomsday scenario seems to be upon us according to these sources. However, as Christians, we hold the only true source of truth predicting the future. The Mayan calendar is accurate without fail, only because it is based on lunar cycle of planets God created and set in perfect order.
In response to the multitudes of people who will at some point hear this information, Christians must be ready with compassion filled truth. They must become like those of the early church, whom daily were reading and studying the apostles doctrine. They knew the gospel built upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Christ Jesus, being the Cornerstone. The knowledge and understanding of the word of God kept them from deceptive doctrines of demons, undue fear, and panic. It allowed them to gently persuade others of the truth and live vibrant, productive lives.
Next time I will explore the scientific facts concerning the end of time and the emerging planet X.
I have taken this information from “Is 2012 the End of the World?” By randy DeMain
Century old prophecies have begun to surface again in our time. People want to know what the future holds; they are looking to various sources to prepare themselves for what is ahead.
Some predict the end of the age, the coming forth of a new golden age. Others are more of the doomsday type oracles expounding vivid images of global destructions. These disruptions, they say will cataclysmic storms, earthquakes, volcanoes, and tidal waves.
The Mayan calendar is the primary sources fueling the secular search for answers regarding the future. This calendar developed by the Mayans began keeping time in 3114 BC. It is credited to be the most accurate calendar known to mankind. It has predicted astrological events perfectly to date for thousands of years. It is based on a 5,125-year cycle, a cycle that ends December 21, 2012. At this time the calendar resents its long count to zero. This is perceived by many to indicate the end of time.
In addition, to this calendar event, the Mayans also have prophesied the alignment of the earth, the sun, and the black hole of the Milky Way galaxy based on their calendar. They prophesy the earth will pass through the “dark rift” of the galaxies gravitational field/plane. The passing will result in tremendous gravitational forces being exerted upon the earth, enough force to cause a “pole shift”, the reversal of the poles of the earth. Along with the reversal of poles will come the onslaught of solar flares and orbital debris rendering great harm and destruction to the earth. The pole shifts could trigger volcanoes, earthquakes, tidal waves and climate shift, all culminating December 21, 2012.
I Ching, the 5,000-year-old method of prognostication practiced by the Chinese also ends all its measurement of time on December 21, 2012. I Ching graphs have predicted the fall of the Roman Empire, the discovery of the new World and Wars in the 20th century through interpretation of 5 coins relating to 64 squares. Concurring with the Mayan, the Chinese agree with a various company of seers down through the ages, whose oracles in some manner set forth the timing of the end of the world.
Merlin the magician, Mother Shipton and the Sybiline prophecies from Rome in 6 BC have similar musings. Many Indian tribes speak of similar events and dates, most notably the Hopi tribe, *The Blackhawk’s and the Sioux ghost dancers.
Perhaps the most interesting contributor is the non-human oracle known as Web bot. Web bots are designed to search the users of the Internet to gain the “collective consciousness” of the World to capture future financial trends, choices, and activates. Interestingly enough it predicted the stock market crash associated with the terrorist attack in America on 9-11-01 right on time.
The 2012 doomsday scenario seems to be upon us according to these sources. However, as Christians, we hold the only true source of truth predicting the future. The Mayan calendar is accurate without fail, only because it is based on lunar cycle of planets God created and set in perfect order.
In response to the multitudes of people who will at some point hear this information, Christians must be ready with compassion filled truth. They must become like those of the early church, whom daily were reading and studying the apostles doctrine. They knew the gospel built upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Christ Jesus, being the Cornerstone. The knowledge and understanding of the word of God kept them from deceptive doctrines of demons, undue fear, and panic. It allowed them to gently persuade others of the truth and live vibrant, productive lives.
Next time I will explore the scientific facts concerning the end of time and the emerging planet X.
I have taken this information from “Is 2012 the End of the World?” By randy DeMain
Sunday, May 10, 2009
The Second Coming of Jesus
Acts 2: 17-21
And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of my Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams. And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy. I will show wonders in heaven above and signs in the earth beneath: Blood and fire and vapor of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of my Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams. And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy. I will show wonders in heaven above and signs in the earth beneath: Blood and fire and vapor of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Holy Ghost (Spirit)
Spiritual Gifts: Unity in Diversity
1 Corinthians 12:1-11
Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit. There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.
Unity and Diversity in One Body
1 Corinthians 12: 12-31
For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body---whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free---and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. For in fact that body is not one member but many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I am not of the body”, is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear should say, “because I am not an eye, I am not of the body”, is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. And if they were all one member, where would the body be? But now indeed there are many members, yet one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you”. No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. And those members of the body, which we think to be less honorable, on these we, bestow greater honor; and out unpresentable parts have greater modesty, but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it, that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? So all have gifts of healings? Do all earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.
1 Corinthians 12:1-11
Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit. There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.
Unity and Diversity in One Body
1 Corinthians 12: 12-31
For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body---whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free---and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. For in fact that body is not one member but many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I am not of the body”, is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear should say, “because I am not an eye, I am not of the body”, is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. And if they were all one member, where would the body be? But now indeed there are many members, yet one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you”. No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. And those members of the body, which we think to be less honorable, on these we, bestow greater honor; and out unpresentable parts have greater modesty, but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it, that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? So all have gifts of healings? Do all earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
The Meaning of Life
“If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature” (II Cor. 5:17)
Question: As a new creature in Jesus Christ, what kind of meaning does your life have in these latter days?
Fulfilled prophecies in the Bible are a strong indication that we are living in the latter days. In the light of that, I think it is expedient that we all look at our own salvation: past, present, and future.
Over the years, I have asked many people, “Have you ever wondered why we are on this earth?” Some had never thought about it, but most has pondered the question and were interested in knowing more about out reason for being. From the Bible we know the rebellious history of men and God’s loving purpose for his creation. The problem is that we, the created, tend to ignore God and go our own way. But when man decides to open himself to his Creator, the very meaning of life is opened to him. Only then can we see how destitute we are without God and how much we need a personal relationship with Him.
In the beginning, Adam and Eve had a personal relationship with God—they understood when God said, “Of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you should not eat, for the day you eat of it you shall die” (Gen. 2:17). Only God knows what is good or bad for our lives. But in their disobedience, Adam and Eve believed Satan’s lie. In Genesis 3:4-5, Satan said, “You will not die, for God knows when you eat of it [the tree of the knowledge of good and evil] your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Their desire was to be like God—to be equal to God—to be their own god.
Well, they ate of that tree and man has had trouble with pain every since. Even though Adam and Eve lived many years physically, they lost their spiritual life that day. They separated themselves from their Creator by believing they knew what was good or bad and they refused to obey God. That is what the Bible calls sin. It says, “As sin came into world through on man and death through sin, so death spread to all men because all men sinned” (Rom. 5:12). This sin that brings spiritual death has affected every human being since the beginning: “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23). If we live with sin and without spiritual life, there can be no personal relationship with God. Without that relationship, we’re all adrift in the sea of life without anyone to really depend on. To continue without that relationship is to get by the best we can until life is over, never knowing the true meaning of life or what God has planned for our lives.
GOD’S PLAN FOR MAN
Of course, God knew very well that men would go their own way and try to be their own god. So He began working with them right where they were, teaching each generation a little more about His plan for mankind. As more people came into relationship with Him, God began to reveal that He intended to pay the penalty for man’s sin Himself. The penalty was death, so He was to come to earth as a human being and die for the sin of the world. As the Bible account progresses, prophets spelled out the details of the coming “Messiah.” In the 53rd chapter of Isaiah, we’re given a detailed prophecy about the coming of this Messiah and His death. Later, we read the account of how He came and willingly died on a Roman cross for your sin and mine. Then, exactly according to prophecy, He was resurrected by the power of God. His name is Jesus, God’s son.
Because Jesus paid the death penalty and lives again, God has promised eternal life to those who repent or turn away from sin. Eternal life is a free gift of God to those who don’t want to go their own way anymore, to those who believe that Jesus’ death paid for their sin and receive Him into their hearts and lives. “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom. 6:23).
WHAT THEN IS THE MEANING OF LIFE?
Are we here to eat, drink, and be merry and then just die? Or are we here to be part of a glorious plan God has for our lives? Scripture says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are becoming new” (II Cor. 5:17). A Christian has a new kind of life—the very life of God which is spiritual life. We are on this earth to be “born again” of the Spirit of God. Then we are to grow and mature in that spiritual life because we have a personal relationship with God. The God of the universe is a Person who loves us personally and desires out fellowship. Through that relationship He makes it possible to grow and to become what we are created to be—the family of God.
Does your life have that kind of meaning? If it does, it is because you have made a deliberate decision to repent knowing that Jesus’ death was full payment for your sin. It also means that you have opened your heart to the life of Jesus and desire to love and obey Him daily. It means that Jesus Christ is your constant companion now and forever. I hope you find that your life has that kind of meaning. I pray that you will not fail to search your heart and know.
Suggested Additional Scripture:
John 17:3 John 5:24-26
John 3:15-16 Titus 2:14
John 3:36 I Corinthians 2:9
Question: As a new creature in Jesus Christ, what kind of meaning does your life have in these latter days?
Fulfilled prophecies in the Bible are a strong indication that we are living in the latter days. In the light of that, I think it is expedient that we all look at our own salvation: past, present, and future.
Over the years, I have asked many people, “Have you ever wondered why we are on this earth?” Some had never thought about it, but most has pondered the question and were interested in knowing more about out reason for being. From the Bible we know the rebellious history of men and God’s loving purpose for his creation. The problem is that we, the created, tend to ignore God and go our own way. But when man decides to open himself to his Creator, the very meaning of life is opened to him. Only then can we see how destitute we are without God and how much we need a personal relationship with Him.
In the beginning, Adam and Eve had a personal relationship with God—they understood when God said, “Of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you should not eat, for the day you eat of it you shall die” (Gen. 2:17). Only God knows what is good or bad for our lives. But in their disobedience, Adam and Eve believed Satan’s lie. In Genesis 3:4-5, Satan said, “You will not die, for God knows when you eat of it [the tree of the knowledge of good and evil] your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Their desire was to be like God—to be equal to God—to be their own god.
Well, they ate of that tree and man has had trouble with pain every since. Even though Adam and Eve lived many years physically, they lost their spiritual life that day. They separated themselves from their Creator by believing they knew what was good or bad and they refused to obey God. That is what the Bible calls sin. It says, “As sin came into world through on man and death through sin, so death spread to all men because all men sinned” (Rom. 5:12). This sin that brings spiritual death has affected every human being since the beginning: “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23). If we live with sin and without spiritual life, there can be no personal relationship with God. Without that relationship, we’re all adrift in the sea of life without anyone to really depend on. To continue without that relationship is to get by the best we can until life is over, never knowing the true meaning of life or what God has planned for our lives.
GOD’S PLAN FOR MAN
Of course, God knew very well that men would go their own way and try to be their own god. So He began working with them right where they were, teaching each generation a little more about His plan for mankind. As more people came into relationship with Him, God began to reveal that He intended to pay the penalty for man’s sin Himself. The penalty was death, so He was to come to earth as a human being and die for the sin of the world. As the Bible account progresses, prophets spelled out the details of the coming “Messiah.” In the 53rd chapter of Isaiah, we’re given a detailed prophecy about the coming of this Messiah and His death. Later, we read the account of how He came and willingly died on a Roman cross for your sin and mine. Then, exactly according to prophecy, He was resurrected by the power of God. His name is Jesus, God’s son.
Because Jesus paid the death penalty and lives again, God has promised eternal life to those who repent or turn away from sin. Eternal life is a free gift of God to those who don’t want to go their own way anymore, to those who believe that Jesus’ death paid for their sin and receive Him into their hearts and lives. “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom. 6:23).
WHAT THEN IS THE MEANING OF LIFE?
Are we here to eat, drink, and be merry and then just die? Or are we here to be part of a glorious plan God has for our lives? Scripture says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are becoming new” (II Cor. 5:17). A Christian has a new kind of life—the very life of God which is spiritual life. We are on this earth to be “born again” of the Spirit of God. Then we are to grow and mature in that spiritual life because we have a personal relationship with God. The God of the universe is a Person who loves us personally and desires out fellowship. Through that relationship He makes it possible to grow and to become what we are created to be—the family of God.
Does your life have that kind of meaning? If it does, it is because you have made a deliberate decision to repent knowing that Jesus’ death was full payment for your sin. It also means that you have opened your heart to the life of Jesus and desire to love and obey Him daily. It means that Jesus Christ is your constant companion now and forever. I hope you find that your life has that kind of meaning. I pray that you will not fail to search your heart and know.
Suggested Additional Scripture:
John 17:3 John 5:24-26
John 3:15-16 Titus 2:14
John 3:36 I Corinthians 2:9
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Seeking Forgiveness
Psalm 32:1-5
Our God, you bless everyone whose sins you forgive ans wipe away. You bless then by saying, "You told me your sins, without trying to hide them, and now I fogive you." Before I confessed my sins, my bones felt limp, and I groaned all day long. Night and day your hand weighed heavily on me, and my strength was gone as in the summer heat. So I confessed my sins and told them all to you. I said, "I'll tell the Lor each one of my sins." Then you forgave me and took away my guilt.
Psalm 51
You are kind, God! Please have pity on me. You are always merciful! Please wipe away my sins. Wash me clean from all of my sin and guilt. I know about my sins, and I cannot forget my terrible guilt. You are really the one I have sinned against; I have disobeyed you and have done wrong. So it is right and fair for you to correct and punish me. I have sinned and done wrong since the day I was born. But you want complete honesty, so teach me true wisdom. Wash me with hyssop until I am clean and whiter than snow. Let me be happy and joyful! You crushed my bones, now let them celebrate. Turn your eyes frim my sin and cover my guilt. Create pure thoughts in me and make me faithful again. DOn't chase me away from you or take your Holy Spirit away from me.
Make me as happy as you did when you saved me; make me want to obey! I will teach sinners your Law, and they will return to you. Keep me from any deadly sin. Only you can save me! Then I will shout and sing about your power to save. Help me to speak, and I will praise you, Lord. Offerings and sacrifices are not what you want. The way to please you is to feel sorrow deep in our hearts. This is the kind of sacrifice you won't refuse. Please be willing, Lord, to help the city of Zion and to rebuild its walls. Then you will be pleased with the proper sacrifices, and we will offer bulls on you altar once again.
Proverbs 28:13
If you don't confess your sins, you will be a failure. But God will be merciful if you confess your sins and give them up.
Joel 2:12-17
The Lord said:
It isn't too late. you can still return to me with all your heart. Start crying and mourning! Go without eating. Don't rip your clothes to show your sorrow. Instead, turn back to me with broken hearts. I am merciful, kind, and caring. I don't easily lose my temper, and I don't like to punish. I am the Lord your God. Perhaps I will change my mind and treat you with mercy. Then you will be blessed with enough grain and wine for offering sacrifices to me. Sound the trumpet on Zion! Call the people together. Show your sorrow by going without food. Make sure that everyone is fit to worship me. Bring adults, children, babies, and een bring newlyweds from thier festivities. Tell me servants, the priests, to cry inside the temple and to offer this prayer near the alter: "Save your people, Lord God! Don't let foreign nations make jokes about us. Don't let them laugh and ask, 'Where is your God?'"
Matthew 6:14-15
If you forgive others for the wrongs they do to you, your Father in heaven will forgive you. But if you don't forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Hebrews 4:14-16
We have a great hight priest, who has gone into heaven, and he is Jesus the Son of God. That is why we must hold on to what we have said about him. Jesus understands every weakness or ours, becasue he was tempted in every was that we are. But he did not sin! So whenever we are in nedd, we should come bravely before the throne of out merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved kindness, and we will find help.
1 John 1:5-10
Jesus told us that God is ligt and doesn't have any darkness in him. Now we are telling you. If we say that we share in life with God and keep on living in the dark, we are lying and are not living by the truth. But if we live in the light, as God does, we share in life with each other. And the blood of his Son Jesus washes all our sins away. If we say that we have not sinned, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth isn't in our hearts. But id we confess our sins to God, he can always be trusted to forgive us and take our sins away. If we say that we have not sinned, we make God a liar, and his message isn't in out hearts.
Our God, you bless everyone whose sins you forgive ans wipe away. You bless then by saying, "You told me your sins, without trying to hide them, and now I fogive you." Before I confessed my sins, my bones felt limp, and I groaned all day long. Night and day your hand weighed heavily on me, and my strength was gone as in the summer heat. So I confessed my sins and told them all to you. I said, "I'll tell the Lor each one of my sins." Then you forgave me and took away my guilt.
Psalm 51
You are kind, God! Please have pity on me. You are always merciful! Please wipe away my sins. Wash me clean from all of my sin and guilt. I know about my sins, and I cannot forget my terrible guilt. You are really the one I have sinned against; I have disobeyed you and have done wrong. So it is right and fair for you to correct and punish me. I have sinned and done wrong since the day I was born. But you want complete honesty, so teach me true wisdom. Wash me with hyssop until I am clean and whiter than snow. Let me be happy and joyful! You crushed my bones, now let them celebrate. Turn your eyes frim my sin and cover my guilt. Create pure thoughts in me and make me faithful again. DOn't chase me away from you or take your Holy Spirit away from me.
Make me as happy as you did when you saved me; make me want to obey! I will teach sinners your Law, and they will return to you. Keep me from any deadly sin. Only you can save me! Then I will shout and sing about your power to save. Help me to speak, and I will praise you, Lord. Offerings and sacrifices are not what you want. The way to please you is to feel sorrow deep in our hearts. This is the kind of sacrifice you won't refuse. Please be willing, Lord, to help the city of Zion and to rebuild its walls. Then you will be pleased with the proper sacrifices, and we will offer bulls on you altar once again.
Proverbs 28:13
If you don't confess your sins, you will be a failure. But God will be merciful if you confess your sins and give them up.
Joel 2:12-17
The Lord said:
It isn't too late. you can still return to me with all your heart. Start crying and mourning! Go without eating. Don't rip your clothes to show your sorrow. Instead, turn back to me with broken hearts. I am merciful, kind, and caring. I don't easily lose my temper, and I don't like to punish. I am the Lord your God. Perhaps I will change my mind and treat you with mercy. Then you will be blessed with enough grain and wine for offering sacrifices to me. Sound the trumpet on Zion! Call the people together. Show your sorrow by going without food. Make sure that everyone is fit to worship me. Bring adults, children, babies, and een bring newlyweds from thier festivities. Tell me servants, the priests, to cry inside the temple and to offer this prayer near the alter: "Save your people, Lord God! Don't let foreign nations make jokes about us. Don't let them laugh and ask, 'Where is your God?'"
Matthew 6:14-15
If you forgive others for the wrongs they do to you, your Father in heaven will forgive you. But if you don't forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Hebrews 4:14-16
We have a great hight priest, who has gone into heaven, and he is Jesus the Son of God. That is why we must hold on to what we have said about him. Jesus understands every weakness or ours, becasue he was tempted in every was that we are. But he did not sin! So whenever we are in nedd, we should come bravely before the throne of out merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved kindness, and we will find help.
1 John 1:5-10
Jesus told us that God is ligt and doesn't have any darkness in him. Now we are telling you. If we say that we share in life with God and keep on living in the dark, we are lying and are not living by the truth. But if we live in the light, as God does, we share in life with each other. And the blood of his Son Jesus washes all our sins away. If we say that we have not sinned, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth isn't in our hearts. But id we confess our sins to God, he can always be trusted to forgive us and take our sins away. If we say that we have not sinned, we make God a liar, and his message isn't in out hearts.
Seeking Salvation Part 2
Romans 5:1-11
By faith we have been made acceptable to God. And now, because of our Lord Jesus Christ, we live at peace with God. Christ has also introduced us to God's undeserved kindness on which we take our stand. So we are happy, as we look forward to sharing in the glory of God. But that's not all! We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. And endurance builds character, which gives us a hope that will never disappoint us. All of this happens because God has given us the Holy Spirit, who fills our hearts with his love. Christ died for us at a time when we were helpless and sinful. No one is really willing to die for an honest person, though someone might be willing to die for a truly good person. But God showed how much He loved us by having Christ die for is, even though we were sinful. But there is more! Now that God has accepted us because Christ sacrificed His life's blood, we will also be kept safe from God's anger/ Even when we were God's enemies, He made peace with us, because His Son died for us. Yet something even greater than friendship is ours. Now that we are at peace with God, we will be saved by His Son's life. And in addition to everything else, we are happy because God sent our Lord Jesus Christ to make peace with us.
Romans 10:5-13
Moses said that a person could become acceptable to God by obeying the Law. He did this when he wrote, "If you want to live, you must do all that the Law commands." But people whose faith makes them acceptable to God will never ask, "Who will go up to heaven to bring Christ down?" Neither will the ask, "Who will go down into the world of the dead to raise him to life?" all who are acceptable because of their faith simple say, "The message is as near as your mouth or yout heart." And this is the same message we preach about faith. So you will be saved, if you honestly say, "Jesus is Lord," and if you believe with all you heart that God raised him from death. God will accept you and save you, if you truly believe this and tell it to others. The Scriptures say that no one who has faith will be disappointed, no matter if that person is a Jew or a Gentile. There is only one Lord, and he is generous to everyone who asks for His help. All who call out to the Lord will be saved.
Ephesians 1:3-14
Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the spiritual blessings that Christ has brought us from heaven! Before the world was created, God has Christ choose us to live with Him and to be His holy and innocent and loving people. God was kind and decided that Christ would choose us to be God's own adopted children. God was very kind to us because of the Son He dearly loves, and so we should praise God. Christ sacrificed his life's blood to set us free, which means that our sins are now forgiven. Christ did this because God was so kind to us. God has great wisdom and understanding, and by what Christ has done, God has shown us his own mysterious ways. Then when the time is right, God will do all that He has planned, and Christ will bring together everything in heaven and on earth. God always does what he plans, and that's why He had Christ choose us. He did this so that we Jews would bring honor to Him and be the first ones to have hope because of Him. Christ also brought you the truth, which is the good news about how you can be saved. You put your faith in Christ and were given the promised Holy Spirit to show that you belong to God. The Spirit also makes us sure that we will be given what God has stored up for His people. Then we will be set free, and God will be honored and praised.
By faith we have been made acceptable to God. And now, because of our Lord Jesus Christ, we live at peace with God. Christ has also introduced us to God's undeserved kindness on which we take our stand. So we are happy, as we look forward to sharing in the glory of God. But that's not all! We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. And endurance builds character, which gives us a hope that will never disappoint us. All of this happens because God has given us the Holy Spirit, who fills our hearts with his love. Christ died for us at a time when we were helpless and sinful. No one is really willing to die for an honest person, though someone might be willing to die for a truly good person. But God showed how much He loved us by having Christ die for is, even though we were sinful. But there is more! Now that God has accepted us because Christ sacrificed His life's blood, we will also be kept safe from God's anger/ Even when we were God's enemies, He made peace with us, because His Son died for us. Yet something even greater than friendship is ours. Now that we are at peace with God, we will be saved by His Son's life. And in addition to everything else, we are happy because God sent our Lord Jesus Christ to make peace with us.
Romans 10:5-13
Moses said that a person could become acceptable to God by obeying the Law. He did this when he wrote, "If you want to live, you must do all that the Law commands." But people whose faith makes them acceptable to God will never ask, "Who will go up to heaven to bring Christ down?" Neither will the ask, "Who will go down into the world of the dead to raise him to life?" all who are acceptable because of their faith simple say, "The message is as near as your mouth or yout heart." And this is the same message we preach about faith. So you will be saved, if you honestly say, "Jesus is Lord," and if you believe with all you heart that God raised him from death. God will accept you and save you, if you truly believe this and tell it to others. The Scriptures say that no one who has faith will be disappointed, no matter if that person is a Jew or a Gentile. There is only one Lord, and he is generous to everyone who asks for His help. All who call out to the Lord will be saved.
Ephesians 1:3-14
Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the spiritual blessings that Christ has brought us from heaven! Before the world was created, God has Christ choose us to live with Him and to be His holy and innocent and loving people. God was kind and decided that Christ would choose us to be God's own adopted children. God was very kind to us because of the Son He dearly loves, and so we should praise God. Christ sacrificed his life's blood to set us free, which means that our sins are now forgiven. Christ did this because God was so kind to us. God has great wisdom and understanding, and by what Christ has done, God has shown us his own mysterious ways. Then when the time is right, God will do all that He has planned, and Christ will bring together everything in heaven and on earth. God always does what he plans, and that's why He had Christ choose us. He did this so that we Jews would bring honor to Him and be the first ones to have hope because of Him. Christ also brought you the truth, which is the good news about how you can be saved. You put your faith in Christ and were given the promised Holy Spirit to show that you belong to God. The Spirit also makes us sure that we will be given what God has stored up for His people. Then we will be set free, and God will be honored and praised.
Seeking Salvation
John 3:1-21
There was a man named Nicodemus who was a Pharisee and a Jewish leader. One night he went to Jesus and said, " Sir, we know that God has sent you to teach us. You could not work these miracles, unless God were with you." Jesus replied, "I tell you for certain that you must be born from above before you can see God's kingdom!" Nicodemus asked, "How can a grown man ever be born a second time?"
Jesus answered: I tell you for certain that before you can get into God's kingdom, you must be born not only by water, but by the Spirit. Humans give life to their children. Yet only God's Spirit can change you into a child of God. Don't be surprised when I say that you must be born from above. Only God's Spirit gives you new life. The Spirit is like the wind that blows wherever it wants to. You can hear the wind, but you don't know where it comes from or where it is going.
"How can this be?" Nicodemus asked. Jesus replied: How can you be a teacher of Israel and not know these things? I tell you for certain that we know what we are talking about because we haven seen it ourselves. But none of you will accept what we say. If you don't believe when I talk to you about things on earth, how can you possibly believe if I talk to you about things in heaven? No one has gone up to heaven except the Son of Man, who came down from there. And this Son of Man must be lifted up, just as that metal snake was lifted up by Moses in the desert. Then everyone who has faith in the Son of Man will have eternal life. God loved the people of this world so much that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn its people. He sent him to save them! No one who has faith in God's Son will be condemned. But everyone who doesn't have faith in him has already been condemned for not having faith in God's only Son. The light has come into the world, and people who do evil things are judged guilty because they love the dark more than the light. People who do evil hate the light and won't come to the light, because it clearly shows what they have done. But everyone who lives by the truth will come to the light, because they want others to know that God is really the one doing what they do.
Romans 1:16-17
I am proud of the good news! It is God's powered was of saving all people who have faith, wheather they are Jews or Gentiles.The good news tells how God accepts everyone who has faith, but only those who have faith. It is just as the Scriptures say, "The people God accepts because of their fait will live."
Romans 3:21-31
Now we see how God does make us accptable to Him. The Law and the Prophets tell how we become acceptable, and it isn't by obeying the Law of Moses. God treats everyone alike. He accepts people only because they have faith in Jesus Christ. All of us have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. But God treats us much better than we deserve, an because of Christ Jesus, he freely accepts us and sets us free from out sins. God sent Christ to be our sacrifice. Christ offered his life's blood, so that by faith in him we could come to God. And God did this to show that in the past He was right when He accepts people who have faith in Jesus. What is left of us to brag about? Not a thing! Is it because we obeyed some law? No! It is because of faith. We see that people are acceptable to God because they obey the Law. Does God beling only to the Jews? Isn't he also the God of the Gentiles? Yes, he is! There is only one God, and He accepts Gentiles as well as Jews, simply because of their faith. Do we destroy the Law by out faith? Not at all! We make it even more powerful.
There was a man named Nicodemus who was a Pharisee and a Jewish leader. One night he went to Jesus and said, " Sir, we know that God has sent you to teach us. You could not work these miracles, unless God were with you." Jesus replied, "I tell you for certain that you must be born from above before you can see God's kingdom!" Nicodemus asked, "How can a grown man ever be born a second time?"
Jesus answered: I tell you for certain that before you can get into God's kingdom, you must be born not only by water, but by the Spirit. Humans give life to their children. Yet only God's Spirit can change you into a child of God. Don't be surprised when I say that you must be born from above. Only God's Spirit gives you new life. The Spirit is like the wind that blows wherever it wants to. You can hear the wind, but you don't know where it comes from or where it is going.
"How can this be?" Nicodemus asked. Jesus replied: How can you be a teacher of Israel and not know these things? I tell you for certain that we know what we are talking about because we haven seen it ourselves. But none of you will accept what we say. If you don't believe when I talk to you about things on earth, how can you possibly believe if I talk to you about things in heaven? No one has gone up to heaven except the Son of Man, who came down from there. And this Son of Man must be lifted up, just as that metal snake was lifted up by Moses in the desert. Then everyone who has faith in the Son of Man will have eternal life. God loved the people of this world so much that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn its people. He sent him to save them! No one who has faith in God's Son will be condemned. But everyone who doesn't have faith in him has already been condemned for not having faith in God's only Son. The light has come into the world, and people who do evil things are judged guilty because they love the dark more than the light. People who do evil hate the light and won't come to the light, because it clearly shows what they have done. But everyone who lives by the truth will come to the light, because they want others to know that God is really the one doing what they do.
Romans 1:16-17
I am proud of the good news! It is God's powered was of saving all people who have faith, wheather they are Jews or Gentiles.The good news tells how God accepts everyone who has faith, but only those who have faith. It is just as the Scriptures say, "The people God accepts because of their fait will live."
Romans 3:21-31
Now we see how God does make us accptable to Him. The Law and the Prophets tell how we become acceptable, and it isn't by obeying the Law of Moses. God treats everyone alike. He accepts people only because they have faith in Jesus Christ. All of us have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. But God treats us much better than we deserve, an because of Christ Jesus, he freely accepts us and sets us free from out sins. God sent Christ to be our sacrifice. Christ offered his life's blood, so that by faith in him we could come to God. And God did this to show that in the past He was right when He accepts people who have faith in Jesus. What is left of us to brag about? Not a thing! Is it because we obeyed some law? No! It is because of faith. We see that people are acceptable to God because they obey the Law. Does God beling only to the Jews? Isn't he also the God of the Gentiles? Yes, he is! There is only one God, and He accepts Gentiles as well as Jews, simply because of their faith. Do we destroy the Law by out faith? Not at all! We make it even more powerful.
Monday, March 2, 2009
The Revelation is happening
This world is going through a lot of hard times and mainly with money. The U.S. economy is really bad, and that is effecting the whole world. The President is coming up with a stimulas plan that is suppose to help the U.S. Well this is all part of the Revelation. There are things that have happen that the Bible said it would. Things are going to get worse and not better. It has been predicted that the next elected Pope would be the Anti-Christ, and that Obama is not really going to help this country but make it worst. It also been predicted that the Rapture would happen around 2012. For those that don't know what the rapture is; it's when all true christians are going to be taken away by God. Then the ones that don't believe will be left behind. Then the Anti-Christ would conquer the world, and that would be 7 years of hell. If no one wants to be left behind I suggest you get right with the Lord now. Follow His will and you will be alright. Now its not going to be easy, as long as you believe in Him and ask Him to take control of your life He will show you the way and take care of you. Read the Bible and know His word and tell everyone that they need to be saved and have eternal life with Jesus. If you want to know what is to come read Revelation which is the last book in the Bible. If you don't understand what it means give me your questions and I will find your answers. Now I was told that we should remember Psalm 23. I will tell you if you don't have a Bible.
Psalm 23
The Lord is my sheperd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Don't wait to long to find your way to God, because no one really knows when this is going to happen. Love God and be free and live happy.
Psalm 23
The Lord is my sheperd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Don't wait to long to find your way to God, because no one really knows when this is going to happen. Love God and be free and live happy.
Salvation from the book Revelation
Now I am going to tell you about Salvation that comes from the book Revelation in the back of the Bible. In the black front is what the scripture reads and in the read font is what it means. Now this is just the first part of the Revelation I will be going over more detail when I get some more research done. The book will mention the Seven Churches. The Seven Churches are is Asia which were selected by the Holy Spirit to portrayt the entirety of the Church Age. I have also heard that the Seven Churches is also the True Christians that follow God and that is what He will Rapture when He comes. Now John which was the last living deciple was given this vision by God, so he will be the one telling everyone what God has shown him. On another note I have gotten these scriptures from a study Bible so they will help make a little more sense. Here we go with the scriptures:I pray that you will be blessed with kindness and peace from God, who is and was and is coming. (refers to Sanctifying Grace and Sanctifying Peace, all made possible by the Cross.) May you receive landness and peace from the seven spirits before the throne of God. (is given to us in this manner to emphasize the seven fold aspect of the Operations of the Holy Spirit [ Isc. 11:2 ]) May kindness and peace be your from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness. (earthly life of perfect obedience) Jesus was the first to conquer death (refers to His Resurrection, which is the First fruits [ Rom. 8:23 ]) and he is the ruler of all earthly kings. (refers to His rulership of the world, which is a key theme of the book of Revelation.) Christ loves us, and by his blood he set us free from our sins. (the Cross proves the fact of His Love in no uncertain terms.) He lets us rule as Kings and serve God His Father as priests. (made possible by what Christ did at the Cross, and only by what Christ did at the Cross.) To Him be glory and power forever and ever! Amen. (Christ is the Redeemer, so He deserves the "Glory and Dominion," which will be His forever and ever.) I will have more for you as soon as I get some more study. I don't want to over whelm you by giving to much. I will also be talking about what will happen in the seven years of the Tribulation which would be after the Rapture of the Seven Churches and our True Christians. This will happen in my life time and it will happen soon. I hear some where around 2012, but no one really knows. So if you want to be ones of those Christians that get called in by the Lord I suggest that you ask the Lord for your forgiveness and let Him into your life. Study the Bible and know His word and spread His word to everyone. I wouldn't want to be one of those people that are Left Behind because in those seven years its going to be hell. It will be worse than watching people get torture in a scary movie. If you have any questions please let me know. You can always email me.
Revelation
What is said before reading the book of Revelation
There are three (3) main parts to this book: (1) There are evil forces at work in the world, and Christians may have to suffer and die; (2) Jesus is Lord, and He will conquer all people and powers who oppose God; and (3) God has wonderful rewards in store for his faithful people, who remain faithful to Him, especially for those who lose their lives in his service.There are seven letters to seven churches. These letters show what different groups of the Lord's followers will do in times of persecution ( 2:1-3:22). The Vision of God's throne (4:1-11) and of the scroll and the Lamb (5:1-14) show that God and Christ are in control of all human and supernatural events. Opening seven seals (6:1-8:5), blowing the seven trumpets (8:6-11:19), and emptying the seven bowls(16:1-21) are among the visions that show God's fierce judgment on the world. After the suffering has ended, God's faithful people will recieve the greatest blessing of all:God's home is now with his people. He will live with them, and they will be His own. Yes, god will make His home among His people, He will wipe all tears from their eyes, and there will be no more death, suffering, crying or pain. These things of the past are gone forever. (21:3-4)What I have written are some of the things that I will be going over in the book of Revelation. Now I have mentioned in my last blog about the Seven Churches. Now these Seven Churches are real churches and when the Lord write these letters to the Churches they are for all churches from age to age. Meaning that as times goes on these churches have had different generations through them. So the letters are not just the Churches back in Jesus time, but for ours as well. I want to mention that we the Rapture comes that we do disappear. The first people that will disappear would be the Christians that have died already. Their souls and spirits are already with the Lord and while their body are still here on earth. Now when the Rapture happens their soul and spirit will reconnect with their bodies and then they will be taken back to heaven. This will happen in a blink of an eye. After the dead get taken then the Christians that are alive will be taken in a blink of an eye. Their bodies will just disappear and all that will be left is what they were wearing. These Christian's will be living with God for 7 years in Heaven, and when the 7 years of Tribulation is over God and His believers will come back to earth. Now I don't want to get ahead of my self but I wanted to get that part clear. Now most people think that Heaven is a place high in the sky on clouds, well that isn't true. Heaven is a real place, some people may say that it's on another planet or even in another dimension. No one really know, but they do know it is a real place and that is where God's throne is. Now as I learn more in my Bible Studies at church I will continue to let you know what I have learn. In the Mean time I will write to you what I have found out on my own when I get the chance. I will try to write something every other day. I know that I will write something every Wednesday after Bible Study. Until next time. Have God in your heart and He will lead you to happiness. God Bless.
There are three (3) main parts to this book: (1) There are evil forces at work in the world, and Christians may have to suffer and die; (2) Jesus is Lord, and He will conquer all people and powers who oppose God; and (3) God has wonderful rewards in store for his faithful people, who remain faithful to Him, especially for those who lose their lives in his service.There are seven letters to seven churches. These letters show what different groups of the Lord's followers will do in times of persecution ( 2:1-3:22). The Vision of God's throne (4:1-11) and of the scroll and the Lamb (5:1-14) show that God and Christ are in control of all human and supernatural events. Opening seven seals (6:1-8:5), blowing the seven trumpets (8:6-11:19), and emptying the seven bowls(16:1-21) are among the visions that show God's fierce judgment on the world. After the suffering has ended, God's faithful people will recieve the greatest blessing of all:God's home is now with his people. He will live with them, and they will be His own. Yes, god will make His home among His people, He will wipe all tears from their eyes, and there will be no more death, suffering, crying or pain. These things of the past are gone forever. (21:3-4)What I have written are some of the things that I will be going over in the book of Revelation. Now I have mentioned in my last blog about the Seven Churches. Now these Seven Churches are real churches and when the Lord write these letters to the Churches they are for all churches from age to age. Meaning that as times goes on these churches have had different generations through them. So the letters are not just the Churches back in Jesus time, but for ours as well. I want to mention that we the Rapture comes that we do disappear. The first people that will disappear would be the Christians that have died already. Their souls and spirits are already with the Lord and while their body are still here on earth. Now when the Rapture happens their soul and spirit will reconnect with their bodies and then they will be taken back to heaven. This will happen in a blink of an eye. After the dead get taken then the Christians that are alive will be taken in a blink of an eye. Their bodies will just disappear and all that will be left is what they were wearing. These Christian's will be living with God for 7 years in Heaven, and when the 7 years of Tribulation is over God and His believers will come back to earth. Now I don't want to get ahead of my self but I wanted to get that part clear. Now most people think that Heaven is a place high in the sky on clouds, well that isn't true. Heaven is a real place, some people may say that it's on another planet or even in another dimension. No one really know, but they do know it is a real place and that is where God's throne is. Now as I learn more in my Bible Studies at church I will continue to let you know what I have learn. In the Mean time I will write to you what I have found out on my own when I get the chance. I will try to write something every other day. I know that I will write something every Wednesday after Bible Study. Until next time. Have God in your heart and He will lead you to happiness. God Bless.
What to expect after the Revelation
During the seven years, God will pour out three consecutive sets of judgments- seven seals in a scroll, which is called the Seal Judgments; Seven Trumpets; and Seven Bowls. These judgments are handed down for the purpose of shaking us loose from whatever shred of security we might have left. As the scroll is opened and the seals are broken, revealing the judgments, the first four are represented by the horsemen- the Four Horsemen of the Apocolype. If you have ever been exposed to such imagery and language before, you probably considered it only symbolic. The Four Horseman are white, red, black and pale. The White horsemen represents the Antichrist, the red horse signifies war, the black horse famine, and the pale horse death.
Now lets look at Revelation 6:1-2:
Now I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, "Come and See" And I looked, and behold, a white horse. He who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.
It's not God's intent to convey individual personality through the imagery of these horsemen, but rather world conditions. They don't all refer to specific people, because, for instance, the fourth horseman is called Death. The First horseman; the Lamb is the one that opens the first seal and reveals that horseman. The Lamb is Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who died for our sins, was resurrected, and will Rapture His Churches. In Scripture the first in a succession is always important- like the firstborn, the first day of the week, the first commandment. The first rider, the first of the four horses of the first seven judgments, is important! He sets the tone. He is the key to understanding the rest of the horsemen, the rest of the Seal Judgments. Who is this first horseman? Clearly he represents the Antichrist and his kingdom. His purpose is conquering and to conguer. He has a bow in his hand, a symbol of aggressive warfare, and yet there is not mention of an arrow. So how will he conquer? Other passages indicate that he is a 'willful king' and that he will triumph through diplomacy. He will usher in false peace, promising world unity. Will he be victorious? Yes! He has a crown. I say it again; The rider of the white horse is the Antichrist, who comes as a deceiver promising peace and uniting the world. The Old Testament book of Daniel 9:24-27- says he will sign a treaty with Israel. He will appear to be their friend and protector, but in the end he will be their conqueror and destroyer. Our only hope is in Christ, and even in him we will likely suffer, but at least you will be saved and go to a better place.
I will go to Daniel 9:26-27
And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself; and the people of the prince who shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined. ( The phrase, "And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off," gives us the exact time, even the very year that the Messiah would be crucified. The words, "cut off," refer to His Crucifixion. The phrase, "But not for Himself," refers to Jesus dying for mankind and taking upon Himself the penalty for mankind. In other words, He did not die for crimes He had committed, but rather for the cromes mankind had committed. The phrase, "And the people of the prince who shall come shall destroy the city and sanctuary," refers to the Romans, who fulfilled this Prophecy in A.D. 70. However, the "prince," as used here, actually refers to the Antichrist, who has not yet come, but will come from among the ten kingdoms yet to be formed inside the old Roman Empire territory.)
And he shall Confirm the covenant with many for one week; and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate. (The phrase, "And he shall confirm," refers to the Antichrist. The phrase, "And in the midst of the week," refers to three and a half years, at which time the Antichrist will show his true colors and stop the Sacrifices in the newly-built Temple. At that time he will actually invade Israel, with her suffering her first defeat since her formation as a nation in 1948. The phrase, "Even until the consummation," means until the end of the seven-year Great Tribulation period. The phrase, "and that determined shell be pured upon the desolute," refers to all the Prophecies being fulfilled regarding the great suffering that Israel will go through the last three and a half year of the Great Tribulation.)
Now lets jump to Matthew 24:21-22
For then shall be great tribulation (the last three and a half years) such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be (the worst the worst the world has ever known, and will be so bad that it will never be repeated) And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved (refers to Israel coming close to extinction) but for the elect's (Israel's) sake those days shall be shortened (by the Second Coming).
Now everything that I have in read are the meaning of the verses that I have written. With any questions please feel free to write me. God Bless.
Now lets look at Revelation 6:1-2:
Now I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, "Come and See" And I looked, and behold, a white horse. He who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.
It's not God's intent to convey individual personality through the imagery of these horsemen, but rather world conditions. They don't all refer to specific people, because, for instance, the fourth horseman is called Death. The First horseman; the Lamb is the one that opens the first seal and reveals that horseman. The Lamb is Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who died for our sins, was resurrected, and will Rapture His Churches. In Scripture the first in a succession is always important- like the firstborn, the first day of the week, the first commandment. The first rider, the first of the four horses of the first seven judgments, is important! He sets the tone. He is the key to understanding the rest of the horsemen, the rest of the Seal Judgments. Who is this first horseman? Clearly he represents the Antichrist and his kingdom. His purpose is conquering and to conguer. He has a bow in his hand, a symbol of aggressive warfare, and yet there is not mention of an arrow. So how will he conquer? Other passages indicate that he is a 'willful king' and that he will triumph through diplomacy. He will usher in false peace, promising world unity. Will he be victorious? Yes! He has a crown. I say it again; The rider of the white horse is the Antichrist, who comes as a deceiver promising peace and uniting the world. The Old Testament book of Daniel 9:24-27- says he will sign a treaty with Israel. He will appear to be their friend and protector, but in the end he will be their conqueror and destroyer. Our only hope is in Christ, and even in him we will likely suffer, but at least you will be saved and go to a better place.
I will go to Daniel 9:26-27
And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself; and the people of the prince who shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined. ( The phrase, "And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off," gives us the exact time, even the very year that the Messiah would be crucified. The words, "cut off," refer to His Crucifixion. The phrase, "But not for Himself," refers to Jesus dying for mankind and taking upon Himself the penalty for mankind. In other words, He did not die for crimes He had committed, but rather for the cromes mankind had committed. The phrase, "And the people of the prince who shall come shall destroy the city and sanctuary," refers to the Romans, who fulfilled this Prophecy in A.D. 70. However, the "prince," as used here, actually refers to the Antichrist, who has not yet come, but will come from among the ten kingdoms yet to be formed inside the old Roman Empire territory.)
And he shall Confirm the covenant with many for one week; and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate. (The phrase, "And he shall confirm," refers to the Antichrist. The phrase, "And in the midst of the week," refers to three and a half years, at which time the Antichrist will show his true colors and stop the Sacrifices in the newly-built Temple. At that time he will actually invade Israel, with her suffering her first defeat since her formation as a nation in 1948. The phrase, "Even until the consummation," means until the end of the seven-year Great Tribulation period. The phrase, "and that determined shell be pured upon the desolute," refers to all the Prophecies being fulfilled regarding the great suffering that Israel will go through the last three and a half year of the Great Tribulation.)
Now lets jump to Matthew 24:21-22
For then shall be great tribulation (the last three and a half years) such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be (the worst the worst the world has ever known, and will be so bad that it will never be repeated) And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved (refers to Israel coming close to extinction) but for the elect's (Israel's) sake those days shall be shortened (by the Second Coming).
Now everything that I have in read are the meaning of the verses that I have written. With any questions please feel free to write me. God Bless.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
