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1st Quarter Blogs
Week of 1/5-9 (B1;15)
Our Recent JOY
My wife and I so enjoy praying together. While we did not intend the
experience below to be "prayer time," we gravitated (under the Holy
Spirit's soft influence) in that direction and were flooded with intimate
fellowship with the One who holds the seven stars ... together as one
in (and with) Christ Jesus our Lord. The time was sincerely glorious.
PRAISE be to our loving Heavenly Father of Lights.
Here's a short summary of our moment together with Him:
On the way to Coeur d'Alene (ID) recently we decided to read the letters
to the churches found in the second and third chapters of the Book of
Revelation - very different than the revelation series coming out on the
History Channel this week (week of 12/28-1/3)!
Nancy and I agreed to read each letter and then allow time for response ...
either quiet pondering, discussion about the passage, questions raised by
the reading, etc. We loosely set 5 minutes for this between the reading of
each letter. Shortly after Nancy read the letter to the angel of the Church
at Ephesus, we started praying. The time was wonderful! Our Lord's sweet
presence was such a blessing to us both as we read the seven letters
(followed by prayer). We would recommend this to married Christian
couples who need to grow this aspect of marriage together, for "Those
who pray together, stay together" offers precious insight indeed.
Lord, we continue in THANKSGIVING as to Your kind Word to us! May
we experience the abundance in Your Divine Son, Christ Jesus - the Giver
of eternal life to all who would receive His most gracious gift - by going to
Your Word for HELP for today and bright HOPE for tomorrow! In Christ
Jesus' holy name. Amen.
____________________
Week of 1/12-16 (B2;15)
The POWER Of His Word
Nothing short of amazing! In my recent relational encounters with the
Creator God (YHVH) of the Universe I was so encouraged in this (as
I've been in fellowship with Him and His precious Word):
HIS balance is essential ... and powerful, indeed! Consider some of our
(the Church's) contemporary issues and how a True perspective of God
helps correct - if we allow it - some of our present imbalances.
Allow me to bring one example ...
One way to define each word:
Grace God giving to us that which we don't deserve.
Mercy God withholding from us that which we do deserve.
Justice God giving to us that which we deserve.
Reward God giving to us what we, in His grace, do deserve.
Thinking about these things in light of the FULL Counsel of His Word
brings much corrective insight for the Western Church IF we're willing to
walk in the humble perspective of Luke 18.
The potential applications of a balanced theology of God are many ... and
so needed today! Allow me to raise one of many pragmatic concerns:
Let's not abuse GRACE to the extent we live unbiblically in relationship to
Ecc. 12:13,14 and other passages which speak to God-honoring works done
as a result of our abiding in the Vine. Let's affirm the whole of Scripture,
including I Cor. 15:1-11, John 3:16-21, Eph. 2:8-10 and James 2:14-26 (to
list only a few of the many passages that AFFIRM God-honoring works)!
Okay ... okay ... theological systems have taught us to make sure our
theology is sound, logically. But actually, in humble affirmation of the FULL
Counsel of His Word, we shouldn't trust in human things like sound reason,
the collective, and ?? (who knows what is coming in the days ahead!) Let's
Trust in the LORD with all our heart and lean not on our own
understanding. In all our ways let's acknowledge Him and He
will direct our paths. (see Proverbs 3:5,6)
Lord, please help us to discern the potentially dangerous Christian POP-
CULTURE fads of our day (e.g., the hermeneutic of we) and maintain our
Truth Foundation (Your Word), for "if the foundations are destroyed, what
can the righteous do?" [Psalm 11:3] Help us submit in loving obedience
to Your Word whereby we demonstrate we really do love You in sincerity.
In Christ Jesus' holy Name, AMEN!
____________________
Week of 1/19-23 (B3;15)
Are YOU Enjoying His Revelation?
Pretty cool! Quite a few outstanding testimonies being shared
of late by some folks in the media limelight ...
~ Consider Russell Wilson's pointing to Jesus Christ.
~ Ponder Louie Zamperini's story in the recent film release: Unbroken.
But don't neglect to get the rest of his story! Click Here for sweet
details.
God's revelation to us actually transcends human experience and/or
testimony. Listen to one who was very close to our Savior:
"Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through
the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fer-
vently with a pure heart, having been born again, not of corruptible
seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides
forever, because 'All flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as
the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away,
but the word of the LORD endures forever.' Now this is the word which
by the gospel was preached to you."
This same rock goes on to make an additional appeal:
"And we heard this voice which came from heaven when we were with
Him on the holy mountain." [see Mt. 17] "We also have the more sure
prophetic word, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a
dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your
hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any
private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man,
but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit."
(select passages have been taken from the New Testament books
of I & II Peter - NKJV ; emphases & selections ours)
Because the Word of God transcends mankind's epistemic means, we
encourage you to expose yourself to His pertinent revelation due to all
the cultural presentries pointing to the veracity of His Word forever settled
in heaven. Yes: ENJOY His Word! I sure have been blessed of late
reading through Matthew! The Jesus of history is sure presented there
in a different way we, at times, think of Him. Thank You Lord for Your
more sure Word ... even more sure than our existential / experiential
encounters.
Thank you dear Word of God for Your written Word which so wonderfully
and so truthfully communicates Your eternal Truths so crucial to
mankind. We thank You and praise You for Your generous revelation
to us. Help us to abide therein! In Christ Jesus' name we pray.
____________________
Week of 1/26-30 (B4;15) [ FB ]
Transforming Passages To Ponder
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable
for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in
righteousness, that the man of God may be complete,
thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
II Timothy 3:16,17 (NKJV)
This passage, at times, is troublesome to some churches today.
Just try highlighting Scripture addressing the four listed purposes
of His Word (doctrine, reproof, correction and instruction in
righteousness) and you may find yourself in trouble!
I know a missionary who did just that and now this very
ambassador of Christ Jesus is being censored – honestly,
this is happening today … by church folk of all people.
Would to God we’d follow Peter’s example and be humble
enough to be open to corrective appeal, especially when
the appeals are clearly biblical. (see Galatians 2:11-21) One
contrast to a godly, teachable response is this: taking offense
at the caring-enough-to-raise-concern appeals and then in
that offense going on to walk in further carnality by reacting
in unChrist-like ways.
As stated in the final blog of 2014, be watching for an
increase in churches coming down hard on those who
persist in speaking His Truths with loving intent. Indeed,
I John 5:2 is almost counter cultural in some churches today!
I found this posted at the library (of one of the colleges
we serve) somewhat recently – author unstated:
Censorship is an enemy of truth, even more so
than a lie. While a lie can be exposed, censorship
can deter us from knowing the difference between
truth and deception in that censorship discourages
the concern to be uncovered in the first place.
All the more reason to be in the God of Truth’s WORD!
THANK YOU Heavenly Father. Thank You for calling us to
both Truth and relationship. Help us discern Your example
as to when relationships need to remain unreconciled due to
a refusal to listen. Thank You for Your example along these
very lines. Thank You for Your Son’s roll-modeling to us in
Matthew 19:16-26, John 7:7 and other settings. May You, dear
Father, be praised as we avoid lukewarmness - lukewarmness
through compromising Your precious Truths, even in the setting
of relationships! Help us discern Your will as we’re about faithfully
representing You, please. Unto Your glory and praise we pray.
Amen.
____________________
Week of 2/2-6 (B5;15)
Preparedness As HE’s Outlined
“Precious YHVH, Father God, please open my eyes that I may
behold wonderful things from Thy Word.” This was my prayer
as I read Matthew chapters 24 & 25 a couple times last month.
And boy, did He (open my eyes) … once again. What grace!
The simple observing of the explicit content of His Word – in the
case at hand: Mt. 24 & 25 – is quite revealing in that what it says
actually DENYS three major end-time viewpoints today: Preterism,
Pre-Tribulationalism and Pan Mil– / Pan Tribulationalism (i.e.,
the it will all pan out in the end perspective, including the attitude: we
don’t have to concern ourselves with end-time matters).
WOW. This passage also negates recent end-time views (ones
also quite popular in many Christian circles at the moment), new
views tied to the general proclamation that the four Blood Moons
of 2014 & 2015 are fulfillments of the major passages foretelling
astronomical signs before the Lord’s return. Please hear me out:
IF we were to read Mt. 24 & 25 carefully, noting the clear chrono-
logical progression which our Lord outlines, these four most popular
end-time positions are exposed to be contemporary views contri-
buting to (that is, fostering) exactly what Jesus Christ has counseled
against: Ill-preparedness. SERIOUSLY!! Click Here for a short but
insightful exegetical (vs. an eisegetical) study / worksheet on Mt. 24
(pp. 4-6).
Isn’t it interesting: In a day when we need True clarity RE: the days
before His return, we find many churches emphasizing extra- and/or
anti-biblical teachings. (Other churches won’t even address the
pressing, pertinent topic. How sad!) But our Lord has indeed
graced us with His Counsel which properly equips us to be about
what He’s called His Saints to be doing during the days before His
initial appearing – OUR DAYS!
So where does this leave us: Let’s go back to His Word
for an accurate map whereby we RIGHTLY navigate the
troubled waters all around us.
Sweet Jesus, THANK YOU for coaching us as You have.
Thank You for Your divine Counsel which encourages us
to be ready as You’ve so clearly called us to be. Help us
to be of those 5 PREPARED VIRGINS who, in listening to
Your Counsel, make it into the wedding feast. Help us discern
Your guiding, shepherding hand as a result of being in Your
Word on a regular basis. We praise You dear King of kings
and Lord of lords. Amen
____________________
Week of 2/9-13 (B6;15)
Practical Eschatology
"Eschatology" is the study of end times. From a Christian worldview
perspective, it is the study of, in part, the final days prior to Jesus Christ's
glorious return ... informed on the basis of a BIBLICAL Truth Foundation.
But end-time study - once again, in light of a biblical framework - is to be
lived out, not simply a mental exercise, for ...
[We are to be] doers of the word, and not hearers only!
(see James 1:22)
Toward the end of practical eschatology, I ask:
How are we doing RE: ACTIVE APPLICATION of crucial end-time
Counsel which our Lord has asked us to obey? (There are SO MANY
mandates He's graciously given us as to living in the days just prior to
his Son's return - OUR DAYS ... thus I ask.)
Here's how the Christian community of the UpRiver area (in Benewah
County, Idaho) recently began putting into action one aspect of His end-
time Counsel, especially based on Mt. 24:45ff & Rev. 2 - 6 ...
In the towns of Santa, Fernwood and Emida we are bringing monthly
evangelistic meals to our UpRiver community whereby we can rotate
food which we've set aside in preparation for lean days ahead. In this
setting, in addition to these meal outreach events providing food for our
needy community AND presenting the Gospel while doing so, we are
also keeping our stored food supplies "fresh" as the stock is rotated on
a regular basis. So WOW, by His grace, we are honoring our Lord by
intentional action on FOUR major marching order which our Lord Jesus
Christ has given His Church! Pretty cool to be involved in such purpose-
ful activity. What a "Mission's Door" unto His glory and praise!
Oh Lord, help us we pray! Give us wisdom as we seek to be Your lights
in a very dark world. Extend, in Your mercy and grace, Your wisdom as
we seek to be a part of reaching out to the lost. And, through the process,
help us further conform to the image of Your dear Son – Christ Jesus:
Lord of lords and King of kings. And please, come quickly Lord Jesus!
____________________
Week of 2/16-20 (B7;15) [ FB ]
Toward Better DISCERNING Our Times
My how the Word of God is insightful and pertinent for us today:
I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ,
who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His
Kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season.
Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For
the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but
according to their own desires, because they have itching ears,
they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their
ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.
(II Timothy 4:1-4; NKJV)
Our culture's insistence that the naturalistic theory of origins is the best
explanation among the origin theories is tied to the strength of this bold,
anti common sense myth (fable).
CLICK HERE for further details.
Lord, help us as we seek to discern the times in light of Your holy Word.
Help us as we seek to debate this topic at Eastern Washington Univ. in
the months ahead. And dispel the deception clinging to those who
sincerely put Truth above the erroneous viewpoints of the vocal minority.
In Christ Jesus' precious name we pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 2/23-27 (B8;15)
On Encountering Differences Of Opinion ...
Discussion with a loyal fan of John MacArthur recently was most
interesting ...
"Bill" had read our post [ CLICK HERE to view the post ] addressing
some of the serious weaknesses of the Pre-Trib position and took
exception to one of my comments. (My comment in sum: John
MacArthur's rejection of the possibility of the final trumpet of
I Corinthians 15:52 being the last - i.e., the seventh - trumpet of
Revelation 11 was only justified by his opinion, not Scripture.)
My friend said (something to the effect): "You don't elaborate on
the specifics of your claim and therefore do not offer anything of
substance."
Because Bill was sincerely open to receiving response to his
insightful comment - and that indeed it was - I was graciously
given the opportunity to fill in the blanks.
I said (again, something to the effect of): If you were to read
Revelation 11:15-19, you would find the elders stating there
are multiple things which happen at the blowing of the final (7th)
trumpet. Judgment is only one of the things which take place.
Another event which unfolds at the blowing of the last trumpet
is that the prophets and the Saints (et al.) are rewarded. (see
vs. 18) Does this allow for the possibility of the Final Trumpet
Rapture Gathering of I Cor. 15? To say that it emphatically
does not is based on extra-biblical appeal.
So MULTIPLE things transpire at the blowing of the 7th Trumpet.
(CLICK HERE to view a related matter on this topic - click link in
FAQ #10.)
But John MacArthur writes (without biblical grounds), there is
nothing else which transpires at the final/last trumpet (of I Cor.
15) except the rapture event. (Read his extra-biblical opinion
comment in relationship to Rev. 11's possible relationship to
I Cor. 15 on page 189 of his book - the one mentioned in the
first link above.)
So, in light of the explicit data of the Rev. 11 and I Cor. 15
texts, yes, John MacArthur makes an assertion NOT biblically
evidenced. Yes, I Cor. 15 addresses the taking up event BUT
makes NO statement as to the rapture event being the only
thing that takes place at this time. Is John's opinion based upon
the argument from silence? (poor grounds for the verification
of a truth claim if this is indeed the case)
WHY do I take time to highlight this concern?
If there are not biblical grounds to dismiss a very explicitly
biblical end-time position (namely, The Final Trumpet Rapture
Gathering), then let's do the Berean thing and give this end-time
proposal fair, prayerful and exegetical consideration.
Oh Everlasting Father, help us discern the difference between the
actual teaching of Your Word from that of the many interpretive
opinions present in churches today. Help us genuinely be that
which we claim to be: People of the [Your] Book! Unto Your
glory and praise; in Christ Jesus' holy name. Amen
____________________
Week of 3/2-6 (B9;15)
Celebrating God's Faithfulness (Part 1)
God is faithful to His Word - on all counts and fronts!
This includes both the pleasant promises AND the somber / sobering
ones, too. For example: Those who live godly in Christ Jesus will
suffer persecution. (see II Tim. 3:12) Our Lord states in John 16:33,
"In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer,
I have overcome the world."
Did you note our Lord's call to correct attitude ?
"Perspective" (in Christ) is HUGE! "Blessed are those who are per-
secuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds
of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad,
for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets
who were before you." (Our Lord Jesus also speaking here - in
Matt. 5:10-12 ; NKJV)
Speaking of perspective ... "For I consider that the sufferings of this
present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall
be revealed in us." (Romans 8:18 ; NKJV) What Counsel to us in a
day when tribulation against God's faithful in Christ is increasing!
We would be well served to further ponder and even help foster this
perspective to which we're called, for even more difficult days are
indeed ahead for those who remain loyal to Jesus Christ our Lord.
Let's endure in Christ, even when the "church" would mandate we
live differently. So, in application of perspective ...
As the song goes: "Joyful, joyful we adore Thee, God of glory,
Lord of love ..."
Mighty God, You alone are worthy of praise. Indeed, blessed be You,
oh LORD, the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Grant us Your
Son's perspective, in Your mercy and grace, Who, for the JOY that was
set before Him, even endured the cross and consequences thereof.
May we endure our tribulation whereby fulfilling: "We must through
much tribulation enter the Kingdom of God." (see Acts 14:22)
____________________
Week of 3/9-13 (B10;15)
DANGER: Those Who Seek To Wrongly Control
I am learning, the hard way, what it means to "watch out for those who
hold the purse."
While we do not wish to bite off the hand that feeds, we CANNOT allow
the unbiblical opinions of those who wield financial strings to usurp the
authority of God's holy Word ... nor silence the proclamation thereof!
I have lost over $1,000/month of support simply because I am not willing
to compromise clear teachings in the Word of God - Truths most pertinent
to our wayward culture. This includes both secular and religious cultures
(and some of the erroneous opinions therein) most popular in the West.
What a day in which to live out His mandate: "Hold fast!" Sound
(i.e., biblical) doctrine matters.
Lord, please help me endure in proclaiming Your eternal Truths forever
settled in heaven ... for Your people's sake, for the sake of the lost, and
ultimately unto Your glory and praise. In the name of Your beloved Son,
the world's only Savior in Your eyes - Christ Jesus our Creator, Sustainer
and Lord - I pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 3/16-20 (B11;15)
As Promised: The Continued 2015 Prophetic Reading Schedule
You will note some chapters are repeated ... with intent / purpose.
April 1 Mark 11
April 2 Mark 12
April 3 Mark 13
April 4 Mark 14
April 5 Mark 15
April 6 Mark 16
April 7 I Cor. 15
April 8 I Thes. 4
April 9 John 14
April 10 Rev. 11
April 11 Rev. 14
April 12 II Thes. 2
April 13 Matt. 24
April 14 Mark 13
April 15 Luke I7
April 16 Luke 21
April 17 I Tim. 4
April 18 II Tim. 3
April 19 II Tim. 4
April 20 I Thes. 5
April 21 II Thes. 2
April 22 Titus 1
April 23 Titus 2
April 24 Titus 3
April 25 James 5
April 26 I Pet. 1
April 27 I Pet. 2
April 28 I Pet. 3
April 29 I Pet. 4
April 30 I Pet. 5
May 1 Rev. 1
May 2 Rev. 2
... etc. ...
May 20 Rev. 20
May 21 Rev. 21
May 22 Rev. 22
May 23 II Pet. 1
May 24 II Pet. 2
May 25 II Pet. 3
May 26 Matt. 24
May 27 Matt. 25
May 28 Mark 13
May 29 Luke 17
May 30 Luke 21
May 31 John 14
June 1 Heb. 1
June 2 Heb. 2
... etc. ...
June 11 Heb. 11
June 12 Heb. 12
June 13 Heb. 13
June 14 Psalm 1
June 15 Psalm 19
June 16 Psalm 119
June 17 I John 1
June 18 I John 2
June 19 I John 3
June 20 I John 4
June 21 I John 5
June 22 II John
June 23 III John
June 24 Jude
June 25 Jeremiah 23
June 26 Ezekiel 23
June 27 Isaiah 24
June 28 Rev. 20
June 29 Rev. 21
June 30 Rev. 22
Lord, please make good Your promise to us as to the sweet
nurturing quality of Your Word as we take the time to sit at
Your Son's feet. Further conform us to the image of Your
dear Son. Unto Your - and His - glory and praise, amen.
____________________
Week of 3/23-27 (B12;15)
Between A Rock And A Hard Place
Here's one (of many) dilemmas Pre-Tribulational Rapturists encounter
when dealing with explicit data in Scripture - in this case, Matthew 24:3-8 ...
1. IF they dogmatically say: The rapture happens before this passage
[based on, in part, their unbiblical teaching of imminence and/or that no
sign need precede the rapture], then they are clearly incorrect because
the "birth pains" / "beginning of sorrows" signs are taking place today.
Well, the rapture/gathering together event has not yet occurred.
But unlike any time in church history (other than the days of the early
church), the details in this passage (vv. 3-8 of Mt. 24) are unfolding in
global culture today - actually have been for some time now.
2. IF they dogmatically say: The rapture takes place after some of the
early signs which are mentioned in this 24th chapter (vs. 31), then they
face different problems. The rapture gathering is included in the Mt. 24
chronology (vs. 31) BUT it takes place after the tribulation from the world
and the dark global system (not "before" as the Pre-Trib. position has tradi-
tionally espoused).
In addition to this observation of the text, this would also mean the rapture
is NOT imminent because sign events take place before the rapture gather-
ing. As a result, the rapture is not "imminent" (as the Pre-Trib. advocates
often define "imminence") due to signs - as defined by our Lord - taking
place before the rapture event. (By the way, there's not one passage using
the word "imminent" in rapture gathering texts. Click Here for details.)
Do you discern their problem(s) ?
It's tied to a commitment to an unbiblical dogma RE: the timing of the
rapture of the Church and the name of this opinion is called the "Pre-Trib"
Rapture.
Instead of adding to Scripture data not explicitly present in the text(s) under
consideration, we at Endurance Ministries encourage the eschatological
Truth seeker to simply read the passages which provide Truthful informa-
tion about the gathering of His Church. In some of these passages, this
rapture event takes place in the setting of a chronology.
See Mt. 24:31 ; John 14:1-3 ; I Cor. 15:51,52 ; I Thes. 4:13-18 ;
II Thes. 2:1-12 and Rev. 11:15 / Rev. 14:14-16 for starters.
Dear I AM, please help us rightly divide Your Word of Truth, for our
protection, for the sake of those still needing You, and, once again,
unto Your glory and praise. In the holy name of Your dear Son I pray.
Amen.
2nd Quarter Blogs
Week of 3/30 - 4/3 (B13;15)
God's Most Precious LOVE
Do you recall the following song lyrics: "Behold what manner of love the
Father has given unto us" ? They are taken from I John 3:1.
This week we - followers of Jesus Christ around the globe - take extra time
to celebrate God's most graphic gesture of His love for us. Indeed, "But
God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners,
Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8 ; NKJV)
Because this act of passionate love is tied to EVERYONE's eternal state, I
strongly encourage all of us to take time to ponder, once again, John 3:16,17.
Those who TRULY* believe (demonstrated by action ... similar to God's active
demonstration of His love for us!) enjoy His gift today ... and will so throughout
eternity! Those who do not believe (that is, those who personally refuse to
receive God's love gift through Jesus Christ and walk therein) will find them-
selves wishing they had said "YES" to the One Who created all things, Who
sustains all things: Jesus Christ the Lord. In this context we state this
sincere wish:
BLESSED "Holy Week" to each and every one!
* "TRULY" is tied to the many passages which call God's genuine newborn
to an active faith. Have you seen the recent movies which extend this
crucial biblical call? God's NOT Dead, A Matter of Faith, Graham's Heaven
and Do You Believe? represent a chorus of Spirit-filled, Bible-honoring
heralds crying out to God's people in Jesus Christ: "LIVE your faith!" Kind of
sounds similar to the very words of our Lord in Rev. 3:15-22. WHOA! - being
interpreted: Stand still and think about this for just a minute, please!
(also see Mt. 7:21-27)
Jude nailed it when he wrote, under the inspiration of God:
Dearly loved friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you
about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about
something else, urging you to defend the truth of the Good News. God
gave this unchanging truth once for all time to his holy people. I say
this because some godless people have wormed their way in among
you, saying that God's forgiveness allows us to live immoral lives. The
fate of such people was determined long ago, for they have turned
against our only Master and Lord: Jesus Christ. (Jude 3,4 ; NLT)
Indeed, God is good ... all the time ...
All the time ... God is good!
BLESSED BE Thou, oh Lord our God, King of the universe! Thank You
for dying for us. Thank You for paying sin's price through Your death on
the cross. And we praise You for demonstrating Your almighty, loving
power through overcoming sin's consequence: death. THANK YOU
for rising again! Even so, please come quickly Lord Jesus.
____________________
Week of 4/6-10 (B14;15)
Celebrating God's Faithfulness (Part 2)
Please review Part 1 (scroll up to Blog B9;15 - above).
Part 1 jogged our memory toward the end of: God is faithful to the
full Counsel of His Word. In light of this, let's personally grow - each
in our own lives - an increased resolve to live out this principle seen
throughout the pages of His Word: "Fear God and keep His command-
ments." Remember, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the
living God." (Heb. 10:31)
Let's run the grace* race with endurance as He has so clearly
mandated.
* Grace is not exhausted at the cross of Jesus Christ. Read
I Cor. 15:1-11 (especially vs. 10). Grace continues!
"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that
always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have
an abundance for every good deed. (II Cor. 9:8 ; NASB ;
emphasis mine)
Holy Father - precious Father of lights - have mercy on us,
please. Thank You for being so patient with us in our journey
with You. Glorify Thy Name in all the earth, we pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 4/13-17 (B15;15)
How Are We BEST Prepared To Discern The Times?
The short and sweet answer: By being in His Word.
Are you reading it on a regular basis?
If not, NOW is a great time to begin this life-changing action.
Precious Word of God, thank You so much for gifting us with
Your written Word. Help us do what we need to do. Please
move our resolve to pick up Your Word and spend some time
with You as we listen to Your Counsel. Transform us as only
Your Spirit, through the washing of Your Word, can. And in
honor of Your divine Counsel to us: May we be hearers who
respond, by Your Spirit's moving, in obedience* as we demon-
strate our love for You through action. Father, we praise Your
holy name. In Your glorious Son's - Christ Jesus' - name we
pray. Amen
* Matthew 7:24
____________________
Week of 4/20-24 (B16;15) [ FB ]
The True Spirit Of ISLAM
While ministering on a university campus this past week I discerned
tension from some due to my wearing a T shirt with the Arabic "N" ( ن )
on it. Why would a simple "N" raise concerns from sincere Muslims?
It's tied to terrible persecution against those who are true, born-again
followers of Jesus Christ, the "N"azarene. You may have seen the
general story behind my story on this web site, though there are
others testifying about these evils.
But WHY would something like this (that is, wearing an "N" on a
T shirt) bring offense?
Here's the scoop:
According to historical tradition, early Christians, at times, identified
themselves as followers of Jesus Christ by the fish symbol. This fish
symbol is still used today. The letters, ICHTHUS spell out the word
"fish" (in Koine Greek). The individual letters represent eternally
significant names tied to the Person of Jesus Christ.
I esous Jesus
Ch ristos Christ
Th eou God's
Y ios Son
S oter Savior
Islam labels these names for the historical Jesus of Nazareth as "heresy."
According to faithful Muslims,
1. Jesus is not the Christ (the divine Messiah)
2. Jesus Christ is not the Son of God (the eternal Word made flesh)
3. Jesus Christ is not the Savior (Who died on the cross for the sins of mankind)
The Word of God actually calls this (Muslim) perspective: "of the spirit of anti-
christ." (see I John 2 & 4) Islam continues to reject Jesus Christ, the Son of
God, the only Savior before Almighty God - YHVH. As a result, (Scripture says),
they do not have God. (see I John 5 & II John)
They (devout, Koran-following Muslims) are a part of the growing spirit-of-
antichirst movement around the globe, seeking to conquer, ideologically, those
whose lives still hang in the balance, spiritually speaking.
Dear Christian Family in Jesus Christ: Let's, as we live out our lives, discern
the day, for this cultural phenomenon is one of the signs the Word said would
unfold before our Lord's return! ... So much for signs NOT preceding the
Rapture event!
Father God, thank You for Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord! Thank
You that He is King of kings and Lord of lords. As we honor Him, Father, we
honor You ; as we obey Him, Father, we love You. Thank You for gracing us
with the means to obey You. Yes, thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit
Who resides within Your true people who abide in the Vine - those who
produce fruits (i.e., good works) as Your Spirit graciously ministers through
us. In Your Son's, Jesus Christ's glorious name I pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 4/27 - 5/1 (B17;15)
Chronological End-Time Concerns ...
As we "go" (Matthew 28:18-20), we point people to God's faithful
revelation gift: The Bible.
Because "context" is important when studying God's holy Word,
there are times when textual outlines - which help highlight the
fuller context of a passage - are often most helpful. For example,
an exegetical outline of Mt. 24:3-31 is insightful toward uncovering
major problems of some popular end-time views.
Here's an outline of a pertinent-for-us-today sketch from our
Lord's Counsel in Mt. 24:3-31 ...
Mt. 24:3 Topic: The sign(s) of Christ's Coming and
the end of the age
Mt. 24:4-8 The Beginning of Sorrows or Birth Pains
"Then" (vs. 9)
Mt. 24:9-14 Increased persecution ; darkness abounds ;
deceiving false prophets emerge
Mt. 24:15-22 The Abomination of Desolation and the
Great Tribulation occur
Mt. 24:29 Astronomical signs unfold
"Then" (vs. 30)
Mt. 24:30 The Sign of the Son of Man takes place
"Then" (see Mark 13:27) (also see Luke
21:25-28 where our Lord Counsels His people
to "look up" when these signs begin to unfold)
Mt. 24:31 The gathering of the elect occurs (Click Here)
There is one additional part of this passage definitely worth
considering: Click Here to link to a crucial 3-page worksheet.
In light of this textually accurate outline, we have a problem,
do we not?
Thank You Lord, for Your Word! - a lamp unto our feet and a
light unto our path. We praise You, Father, even in saying:
"Your Son, Jesus Christ, is Lord!" In His holy name I pray.
Amen
____________________
Week of 5/4-8 (B18;15)
Before It's Too Late (Another Caring Appeal) ...
Recently four of our sites were OFF-LINE for a significant period of time due
to changes Microsoft made in some of its configuring software - affecting the
hosting service which carries some of our older sites.
While this is understandable - things of this nature can and do take place -
this recent experience of off-line sites does remind us of a prior request
we've made of our readers:
"If you cannot access these [our web] sites, it is beyond our control,
though we promise to do everything we can to keep these sites up
and running as long as possible. We actually recommend down-
loading the content now so you'll have the material available at
a later date." (pg. 244 ; The Final Trumpet Rapture Gathering: An
Introduction ; underline emphasis mine)
QUESTION: Is it possible the battle tactics of the world against God
will even affect web sites addressing the spiritual dangers of our day?
Stated yet another way: Is it possible insightful web site content can
be shut down? Of course it's possible the worldly powers will grow to
be so threatened by eternal warnings - like the ones we bring on our
many web sites - that one day they will construct software such that
Christ-honoring, Bible-affirming appeals are electronically censored
(and will no longer be available) ... as if it hasn't happened in some
settings already!
Having just experienced this period of down time (of some of our
important sites), we'd like to repeat our past request in this way:
"Please down-load the content of these sites whereby you have helpful
material during this next decade and a half. We will not be sending out
hard copies, email attachments, mobile announcements or links, etc. of
this material due to this information's present availability so get this
data now, while you still can. Simply set aside one data stick for this
material. The sites we especially suggest you down-load are these:
www.endmin.com www.thefinaltrumpetrapturegathering.com
www.truthmatters.com www.finaltrumpetrapturegathering.com
www.finaltrumpet.org www.therapturegathering.com
www.currentmatters.org www.truthfoundations.com
www.enduranceministries.org www.endmin.org
It would take you about an hour or two - depending on your computer
skills - to do so. It's worth it!"
Lord, help us to be READY as You've so clearly called us to be! In
Jesus Christ's name we pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 5/11-15 (B19;15)
Lasting Counsel From THE Primary Source #1
"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor
stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful, but his
delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and
night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings
forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and what-
ever he does shall prosper. The ungodly are not so, but are like the
chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore the ungodly shall not
stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the un-
godly shall perish." Psalm 1 (NKJV)
Everlasting Father, Creator, Savior and soon-coming King, THANK
YOU for Your clear revelation to us. Thank You for the Counsel it
offers, for the wisdom it affords. Give us boldness to live it out as we
know we should.
Help us to separate from the world while persisting in being Your
lights therein;
Help us to thrive as You've given us abundant life if we'd but walk
in Your Spirit;
Help us to endure in Your Truths as we abide in You and Your
gracious provisions in Christ Jesus.
Help us do all of the above and more. Help us to live our faith
whereby we avoid the eternal state of those who reject You - those
who will not stand in the congregation of the righteous - for we never
wish to hear: "I never knew you. Depart from Me you workers of
iniquity."
Lord, we affirm Your Words: "The way of the wicked will perish."
Indeed. Amen. Even so, please come quickly Lord Jesus. In
Christ Jesus' glorious Name.
____________________
Week of 5/18-22 (B20;15)
On "Betrayal"
"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." (Matthew 24:9,10 ; NKJV)
There's a time coming - if we're not in the early stages already! - when global
persecution (tribulation and martyrdom) against God's people in Jesus Christ
will unfold, Actually, aren't we clearly seeing various forms of both (tribulation
and martyrdom) today?
The English Standard Version translates these two verses in this way:
"Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you
will be hated by all nations for my name's sake. And then many will fall
away and betray one another and hate one another." (Mt. 24:9,10 ; ESV)
Pertinent observations of the text:
1. Tribulation and death come to faithful followers of Jesus Christ - for My
Name's sake (vs. 13 calls for this faithfulness) - AFTER the period of
time called the time of sorrows/birth pains begins.
2. During this time of tribulation, many will: a) be offended/fall away
b) betray one another
c) hate one another.
The New Living Translation states these verses this way:
"Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all
over the world because you are my followers. And many will turn away
from me and betray and hate each other." (Mt. 24:9,10 ; NLT)
In this setting - because the global rapture gathering event does not take
place until the Final Trumpet (I Cor. 15:51,52 ; Mt. 24:31) - we, His people
in Jesus Christ, are called by God to endure to the end.
We cannot: fall away ... betray one another ... hate one another, even
when the world is plagued with darkness of many forms. (Remember,
deceit and lawlessness are highlighted in this passage.)
We must discern the many deceptions since these very things are taking
place today. The text below explicitly states great deception, persecution,
apostasy, betrayal, hate & lawlessness unfold prior to the sign of the Son
of Man (vs. 30) - an event which PRECEDES the rapture gathering of His
Church.
So I simply ask: "How are we doing in following our Lord's Counsel: The
one who endures to the end will be saved." ?
"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 the nations, and then the end will come." (Mt. 24:9-14 ; NJKV)
Lord, please give us wisdom and discernment, I pray. Help us to, even in
the midst of skyrocketing abominations, endure in love. Help us to be wise
as serpents and yet harmless as doves as Your Son so clearly taught and
modeled. May Your Spirit accomplish this in our lives, for Your glory and
praise. In Christ Jesus' Name I pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 5/25-29 (B21;15) [ FB ]
The Growing Cult Of Unbiblical Grace: Affirming God's WHOLE Counsel
It happened again this week - more choosing to live THEIR own spirituality
as opposed to (that is, above) the worldview perspective God wants from
His own.
Here are two frequent expressions of the sect of unbiblical grace :
1. The "I know it's wrong to live this way but God will forgive [so it's really
okay]" attitude and lifestyle. Romans 6 - 8 ; I John 1:6-10 & 3:4-15 and
many other passages speak against this dangerous half-truth perspective;
2. The false teaching that "works are not tied, in any way, to faith, grace, and
justification before God." I Cor. 15:10 ; II Cor. 9:8 ; Gal. 5:6-10 ; Heb. 11 ;
James 2:14ff and Titus chapters 2 & 3 expose this half-truth imbalance.
YES, works of the law and unregenerate human works in general are
filthy rags before God and in no way offer saving merit but works done in
Christ are God-honoring and are that to which He's called His own.
Do you discern how unbiblical grace ties to end-time themes especially
highlighted in the Word?
There are MANY places in eschatological genre which make appeal for
godly living. In fact, the very letters to the churches in Rev. 2 & 3 speak
to this very concern!
When one holds to the faddish grace doctrine present in some churches
today - a self-defined orthodoxy which denies other aspects of Scripture
addressing the themes of grace, godly living, faith and good works;
when one chooses to live in opposition to God's standard - a faulty
orthopraxy in contradiction to our Lord's example;
when one passionately defends sinful lifestyles - a dishonoring-to-God
orthopathy ... when one does all of the above, one chooses lukewarm-
ness which our Lord will spit out of His mouth. This is indeed one
expression of apostasy and this growing cult of unbiblical grace and its
members will one day give account to the God of grace.
Dear YHWH God, have mercy on us we pray. Help us to balance our
doctrine in light of the full Counsel of Your Word. Help us better discern
the many half-truth appeals within some churches today - ones resembling
the dark appeal found in the Genesis 3 account; ones which are bankrupt
in Your eyes. Father, give us boldness to take a stand and speak up (as
Your faithful Ambassadors in Jesus Christ Your Son) as we seek to pro-
perly and truthfully represent You. Help us do so as opposed to living a
faddish spirituality bearing close resemblance to the global system of
the antichrist currently in the making. In Jesus Christ's glorious name
I pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 6/1-5 (B22;15)
Thank You Dear Readers!
This week the ministers of Endurance Ministries would simply like to
express a sincere "thank you" to our readers. Thank you for discerning
how the topics addressed on our web sites are so pertinent to life in
Jesus Christ today. By God's grace, we believe He has gifted us with
important insight toward successful living in these days just prior to the
return of our Savior: Jesus Christ. So please keep reading AND let
us know your responses to our posts by using the "Contact Us" page.
Dear God Who provides. Thank You once again for Your Word. We
praise Your Holy name for the caring Counsel You offer therein! Help
us finish strong knowing Your Kingdom things are the eternal things
which really matter most! In Your Son's sweet name, amen.
____________________
Week of 6/8-12 (B23;15)
Please Don't Tell Us We Didn't Sufficiently Warn You!
Do you appreciate the insights history affords?
God's Old Covenant People (rebellious - stubborn and obstinate - Israel)
went wayward.
A prophet spoke the Lord's message knowing that if he didn't share the
Lord's rebuke, he, too, would be guilty (i.e., blood would also be on his
hands). See Ezekiel 2, 3 & 18, especially 3:16-21.
In like manner ...
Some of God's New Covenant People (including the growing-in-number
apostate churches) are in the process of going wayward.
Ambassadors in Christ are speaking the words of the Lord: "Separate
from the secular, defiling worldly entanglements!" "Heed Revelation
chapters 2 & 3!"
But a growing number are choosing to reject our caring, tough-love
counsel - similar to the attitude found in Jeremiah 6:16-21.
So what can we (who minister through Endurance Ministries) do in
this setting? We continue to speak the Truth in love and will endure
in posting His insightful appeals on this blog site.
We've done what we can - we've done our part - and, by God's mercy
and grace, our hands are blood free.
The following prayer is sung to the tune, Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star :
"God of glory, God of grace,
Help us Lord, to seek Thy face.
You Who dwell above the earth;
You Who gave us second birth -
God of glory, God of grace:
Help us Lord, to seek Thy face."
In Jesus Christ's holy name we pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 6/15-19 (B24;15)
The Continued 2015 Reading Schedule (July - September)
"The entirety of Thy Word [O Lord] is Truth ..."
July 1 Daniel 1
July 2 Daniel 2
... etc. ...
July 11 Daniel 11
July 12 Daniel 12
July 13 Mark 13
July 14 John 14
July 15 I Cor. 15
July 16 I Thes. 4
July 17 Revelation 11
July 18 Revelation 14
July 19 II Thes. 2
July 20 I Thes. 5
July 21 I Tim. 4
July 22 II Tim. 3
July 23 II Tim. 4
July 24 Titus 3
July 25 James 5
July 26 I John 1
July 27 I John 2
July 28 I John 3
July 29 I John 4
July 30 I John 5
July 31 II & III John
August 1 Daniel 1
August 2 Daniel 2
(repetition for the sake of emphasis:
Please note how applicable these
chapters are to our present culture!)
... etc. ...
August 11 Daniel 11
August 12 Daniel 12
August 13 Matthew 10
August 14 Matthew 24
August 15 Matthew 25
August 16 Luke 17
August 17 Luke 21
August 18 John 10
August 19 John 11
... etc. ...
August 28 John 20
August 29 John 21
August 30 Rev. 2
August 31 Rev. 3
September 1 Rev. 1
September 2 Rev. 2
... etc. ...
September 21 Rev. 21
September 22 Rev. 22
September 23 Psalm 119
September 24 Psalm 120
September 25 Psalm 121
September 26 Psalm 122
September 27 Psalm 123
September 28 Psalm 124
September 29 Psalm 125
September 30 Psalm 126
Forever, O Lord, is Thy Word settled in heaven - Your
sweet faithfulness endures to all generations! Please
help us discern the difference between Your explicit
Word from that of the incorrect interpretations of man
(e.g., The Blood Moon false prophecies) and help us
mark the advocates who have wrongly promoted these
false appeals ... unto our protection and unto Your glory
and praise! Even so, please come quickly Lord Jesus.
Amen
____________________
Week of 6/22-26 (B25;15)
On Apostasy & Deception - Let's Call A "Spade" A Spade!
There are those who claim they are faithful followers of Jesus Christ and yet
they insist on saying they are "homosexuals." I'm NOT talking about those
who say they are Christians and who go on practicing immoral acts. I am
talking about those who no longer practice the sin of homosexuality but yet
insist on retaining the label: "homosexual."
Some argue in this way:
"We have Christians who are alcoholics (though they no longer drink
alcohol). Likewise, there are Christians who are homosexuals (though
they do not continue in that lifestyle)."
But God's perspective is very different from that of some of the
compromised church - and I emphasize "church," NOT Church.
God graces true believers in Jesus Christ with a new birth and rescues
us from the ugly old nature and its actions - however that's expressed.
NO, dear college campus minister (who told me recently some Christians can
retain the label, "homosexual" and still be blameless before God), our Father
God - as revealed in the Word of God - desires His new creatures in Christ
Jesus to put off the old and no longer walk therein ... even to the extent of
celebrating Christ's victory to drop old sinful labels! Thank You dear Lord
Jesus for Your conforming work in us.
Let's be willing to call a spade a spade and even discern what seems (on
the surface) to be only minor infractions, for there are often heavy conse-
quential (and dark) fruits tied to some of these vines - positions which have
the surface appearance of peace-appeals (to the world, though the world
demands much greater concession!) but in truth are actually linked to
angel-of-light darkness.
The "spades" are many today.
May we be discerning, dear Family in Jesus Christ - discerning in light of the
full Counsel of God's Word and be bold in Christ to call darkness just what it,
in reality, is: anti-Christ darkness.
Precious Father God, we so need Your Holy Spirit's help in discerning our day,
for there are compromised positions growing in the church today - ones tied to
that which You've clearly forewarned would take place in the end of days. Help
us stay in Your Word which is Truth and which serves as Your People's (in
Christ) standard for life action, even in these days just prior to your Son's
glorious return. Thank You, Father God. In Your Son's - in Christ Jesus' -
holy and precious Name we pray. Amen
3rd Quarter Blogs
Week of 6/29 - 7/3 (B26;15)
A BIG - PICTURE Response - Part 1
The world continues to proceed in the very direction God's Word
forecasted it would! God's kind and most generous revelation to
us states unrighteousness will flourish in the days just prior to the
return of the Lord Jesus Christ. And that it is!
The recent US Supreme Court ruling is simply another drop-in-the-
bucket example as to what our Lord said would take place before
His return. Again, we would strongly encourage you to use our
Bible reading schedule for Counsel second to none! It's posted
in our "Archived" blog files - linked at the top of this page.
So what are God's people in Jesus Christ to do in this setting
of increased ungodliness? We are to REJOICE, to name one of
the many things our Lord has mandated. Take JOY in the fact of
God's faithful revelation to us in that what He said would take place,
will take place. DON'T be like the apostate church and cave in to
the growing hate toward God, His Word and His people who remain
loyal to His Word. Indeed, ENDURANCE is what He wants from us!
DON'T follow in the skeptics' mode and deny the Word. This would
be foolish, especially in light of the continued evidence in affirmation
that His Word is most trustworthy.
Instead, abide in God's Word and allow it the sweet ministry it brings:
See Psalms 1, 19 & 119. And don't forget to continue celebrating just
how powerful it is: See Hebrews 4:12 ... noting the Source Whose
ways and thoughts are as high as the heavens are above the earth!
PRETTY COOL ! And, appropriately so, we don't stop there (that is,
at stating it's "pretty cool"). We go on, on bended knee, to express
praise and adoration to the One true triune God - our Father, Christ
Jesus His Son and His Holy Spirit.
Yes, dear follower of Jesus Christ. REMAIN (endure) in God. Do so,
in part, by faithful fellowship with Him in His Word and by walking in
His precious Holy Spirit, for the fruits therein are not only most dear,
they are eternal.
One other thing to our born-again Family: Help those who are in harm's
way by challenging them to foster an attitude of THANKSGIVING to
God for His faithful Counsel to us. The world, satan and the flesh are
screaming just the opposite: "Don't trust God's Word, the Bible!" We,
in contrast, proclaim the opposite: "Thy Word is Truth - forever settled
in heaven!"
We have been so gifted with His transcendent insight ... and let's con-
tinue to be grateful to Him for it while at the same time taking safeguards
to make sure we're in it on a regular basis.
Father God, we love You so! Thank You for first loving us as You do.
Thank You for expressing it in perfection in the precious cross of Christ
Jesus Your Son. Thank You, Savior, for shedding Your holy blood for
us almost 2,000 years ago. Thank You for True freedom as many of
us celebrate that theme this week. Thank You for freedom (from great
bondage to the dark one) through Jesus Christ. In Him we are graced
with Your Truth and are eternally set free! Yet, we continue to humbly
ask: Please, Lord Jesus, come quickly we pray! Amen
Acts 14:22 ; Revelation 14:12 ; Revelation 22:14 (in the NKJV!)
____________________
Week of 7/6-10 (B27;15) [ FB ]
This blog was very difficult to write (thus my
tardiness in posting it - I apologize) !
There Was A Man ; There Is A Man - A Possible Projection ...
Do you recall the story Nathan told King David, the one recorded
in II Samuel 12:1-4?
The historical event above allows for this timeless principle: Errors
and/or injustices will be dealt with ... in God's timing and in God's way.
And do you remember King Joash's grotesque apostasy in II Chron. 24?
He lived righteous before God most of his life but fell away from the
faith after the exodus of a godly man from his life - Jehoiada the Chief
Priest. Though King Joash lived in a God-honoring way the first portion
of his existence, his life ended in great tragedy. Ezekiel 18 and many
New Testament passages speak to the important principle of enduring
to the end by finishing strong (that is, by finishing correctly in light of
God's revelation).
There is a Bible teacher today who has taken a turn from a what-does-
the-Bible-say platform. He has now gone on to betray God's Word by
heralding a most dangerous appeal. Here's the unfolding story ...
There is a man who, like King Joash, brought reform unto God's glory
and praise by heeding His instructions as outlined in His Word. The
weight of being a Bible authority mixed with a particular theological
perspective and cultural pressures of the day led him, in part, to enter
into false teaching of eternal significance. He began teaching, in sum:
The taking of the mark of the beast is a forgivable sin before God (if
one repents under the atoning provision of Christ). This man wrongly
influenced hundreds of thousands in that many went on to take the
mark with the false-hope intent to repent after the persecution by the
world (against faithful followers of Jesus Christ) subsided.
This very man one day found himself before the Throne of God, giving
account for his teaching ministry. (NEVER forget James 3:1 dear
teachers and preachers of the Word!!) The LORD asked him, "What
part of Revelation 14:9-14 did you not understand? I said, through My
angel, 'If ANYONE worships the beast and his image, and receives his
mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall drink of the wine
on My wrath which is poured out full strength into the cup of My indigna-
tion. Those who do so shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the
presence of My holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb, My Son.
And the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have
no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever
receives the mark of his name.' WHY did you encourage many whose
lives were hanging in the balance to compromise in light of My clear
warning? Through your contrary-to-My-Word interpretation, many
will now suffer eternally!"
The man thought about giving excuses - the very ones he used to
justify his teaching position prior to the period of time the mark was
being implemented - but he now knew they were insufficient ones.
He found himself experiencing what he had, for the most part, taught
(until the final part of his teaching ministry): God is faithful to His Word.
He found himself facing the unpleasant side of James 3:1, for he
taught incorrectly in such a way as to mislead many ... for which he
was accountable before Almighty God.
Dear Saints in Jesus Christ: Do NOT heed some contemporary
teachers who are denying God's holy Word in their instructional appeals
today. God is faithful to His Word, the entire Counsel thereof! In light of
this sound counsel - that being: Let's, each and every one of us, OBEY
God's explicit Word - I close with this:
"Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the
commandments of God and the faith of Jesus." (Rev. 14:12 ; NKJV)
And YES, by all means, let's keep reading this 14th chapter - and the
whole Book for that matter!
Dear Righteous God Most High, please affirm through Your Holy Spirit
what You've clearly Counseled against in Revelation 14! Help Your people
in Your beloved Son to throw off the false teachings of many today, including
those which come through teachers who have had great ministry through
most of their lives but who end in grave compromise! Help us, we pray, to
be willing to say "NO" to apostate teachings which encourage life-action
contrary to Your protective mandates to us! In fact, dear LORD, please
rewrite the story above where this teacher confesses his interpretive error,
thus affirming Your protective Counsel to many. Graciously extend Your
Jonah-like* mercies, please. Lord, help us we pray! In Your Holy Son's,
our Savior's, most precious Name. Amen
* That is, "mercies" found highlighted in the Book of Jonah.
____________________
Week of 7/13-17 (B28;15)
Mindset - Part 1
Just how do we, as God's people in Jesus Christ, approach His Word?
Do we allow it to say what it actually says? ... after all, we claim to be
people of the Book. Are we, really?
Faith claims are one thing; Actions are yet another. Some claim to be
"Christian" today but act to the contrary. James 2:14-26 and Mt. 7:15-29
are helpful Truths when considering this matter of genuine saving Faith.
Don't get me wrong, dear reader. I'm not judging (for God will rightly
judge one day). I'm only stating observed facts in light of God's kind
revelation standard/plumb line to us. There is a difference between
judging and heralding His Truths and, thankfully so, God knows the
true intents of the hearts of all those taking part in these efforts toward
exalting Jesus Christ through Bible-affirming appeal.
Here's one aspect of the worldview perspective - a MINDSET if you
would - our Lord wants His people to hold: It's found in early Church
history and is actually spoken through one who was speaking under
the influence of the Holy Spirit of God:
"For I have not shunned to declare to you the WHOLE counsel of
God." (Acts 20:27 ; NKJV ; emphasis ours)
Factually speaking, we have IMBALANCE in a growing number of
churches today - some of which lead to false teachings like (when
stated dogmatically): One can be forgiven for taking the mark of the
beast (addressed in our last blog post immediately above and, in
light of Grace To You 's kind response to my inquiry, which will be
further addressed in our next blog: Mindset - Part 2).
Moving on to general application of this concern of claimed "biblical"
appeal (when in actuality there is a lack of warrant in support thereof),
some groups biblically emphasize one doctrine BUT fail to balance it
in light of other biblical data. These partial-truth heralds affirm some
passages BUT fail to bow to the authority of the FULL COUNSEL of
God. Dear Family in Jesus Christ, it's time we more wisely approach
the Scriptures and yield to the big picture therein. In other words, let's
not affirm the passages we like and reject the others which don't fit
our preferred box (and this takes place, in part, through twisting God's
Word - namely, those passages that confront our contrived theological
constructs - even through false interpretation, mind you ... like the one
we're addressing this month)! Let's put our human reason in proper
submission to the forever-settled-in-heaven Words of God - the whole!
Lord Jesus, please grace us with further discernment today. Help us
discern the false appeals given by some people in churches (like the
prostitute who says, "I obey God ... I love others through my life
occupation."). And help us discern the more subtle, often cloaked
distortions of Your Word. Thank You, Lord, for extending Shepherding
mercy and grace through Your protective Word and through Your Holy
Spirit's illumination of Your Word. Help us to do our part as Your
children in Christ: Help us accept it and live it! THANK YOU! In Jesus
Christ's name we pray. And once again, please come quickly Lord
Jesus! Amen
____________________
Week of 7/20-24 (B29;15)
[ The following is tough reading so we ask that you NOT take portions
of this blog out of its entire context when sharing it with others. THX ]
Mindset - Part 2
Before you continue reading, please read Isaiah 5.
In application of Isaiah 5:20, and in response to Grace To You 's
affirming their teaching that the sin of taking the mark of the beast
is forgivable (Click here to see where I was graciously directed by
the GTY staff), we at Endurance Ministries would like to offer a fair,
caring-for-God's-Family what if response.
You ask us how the mark of the beast could in any way be possibly
tied to an unforgiveable sin? Let us show you how "blasphemy"
itself could easily be tied to the mark - SERIOUSLY!
The evil powers at the time of the end just before the initial appearing
of Christ will manifest darkness in almost unbelievable ways (e.g., see
Daniel 7:25 ; 11:36 & Rev. 13). Akin to the character quality of the
father of lies/the father of this world (that trait being deceit - see
Daniel 8:25), the little horn will manifest great deceit and blasphemy!
Interesting, isn't it: One MAJOR action of the antichrist - the first
beast of Rev. 13 (vv. 1-9) is blasphemy (see verses 5-7)!
Before we demonstrate an example as to how the mark could be
an unpardonable sin unto eternal damnation in the Lake of Fire
(as the "ANYONE" of Rev. 14:9 teaches), let's first review just
what "blasphemy against the Holy Spirit" is. In the context of Mt. 12,
this unpardonable sin is attributing the work of the Holy Spirit to the
work of satan (we don't capitalize his name intentionally!) - Please
read Mt. 12:22-32 carefully.
End-time darkness during the Rev. 13 activity of the beast could
easily unfold in this (hypothetical) way:
The powers speaking in behalf of the beast could simply say:
"This world mark is the seal of the holy spirit. To reject this mark
which the spirit is directing us to take ... to refuse this seal is tanta-
mount to blasphemy against the spirit. To say, as those who follow
Jesus Christ say (namely, 'this mark is the mark of satan'), is to
actually attribute the work of the holy spirit to the work of satan.
This is "blasphemy against god" and our response to those who
reject this holy sealing is necessary: Kill them!" [They could con-
tinue to say:] "Listen carefully as we want to be clear: Whoever
does not receive the mark will be likened unto the one who commits
blasphemy against the holy spirit. This crime of all crimes will NEVER
be forgiven them - the crime being the rejection of the mark and then
actually going on to label this mark as one bringing eternal fate. god
forbid! In light of this blasphemy, these need to be killed!"
So the hypothetical goes. Can you visualize this possible scenario?
IF this or something similar to this were to take place, this charge of
"blasphemy" by the world (against true followers of Jesus Christ)
would actually be a 180 degree contrast to biblical blasphemy
against Holy Spirit of God AND could actually be used by darkness
to call for, 1. the taking of the mark of the beast as defined in Rev. 13;
and call for 2. the global effort to terminate those who refuse the mark!
There you have it. One example (though there are others) as to one
plausible way the evil system could include the wrongful appeal of
"blasphemy" to encourage the taking of the mark (which would also
be - in and of itself - the committing of biblical blasphemy against
God).
We confess this is only hypothetical, but please DON'T tell us this is
not possible. In fact, the entirety of Isaiah 5 speaks to this theme of
evil's distortion of Truth, including verse 20: "Woe to those who call
evil good and good evil; who put darkness for light and light for dark-
ness; who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!" WOW
Some could respond at this juncture: "This is upside down!" That's
our point! This Is. 5 trait of darkness could actually model the Is. 5:20
theme as the end-time global system promotes its agenda.
Enough said, BUT PLEASE read insight (from the One Who knows!)
relating to this matter of speaking "monstrous things against the God
of gods" (Daniel 11:36 ; NASB) (the NIV reads, "unheard-of things
against the God of gods"). And there are other verses in Daniel
which warn of pompous/boastful words from the little horn (see
Daniel 7:8,11,25, for example). Allow the explicit Word of God to
be the lamp unto your feet and the light unto your path.
So here's our sound and fair CONCLUSION: There's no way, in
light of biblical Truth and due to the unknown details as to just how
the "blasphemies" of the antichrist will manifest themselves ... there's
no way one should ever dogmatically say the mark of the beast is
emphatically NOT an unpardonable sin for clear reason! We post
two reasons here:
1. Scripture leans to the contrary, and,
2. If indeed this view (that the taking of the mark is pardonable) is
WRONG, it's eternally binding! Wisdom: Let's take the safe
option ... you know: "Better safe than sorry (eternally so) !"
So, once again, please don't tell us this mark couldn't take place in
a setting which affirms the Rev. 14:9 "ANYONE" context! This is one
reason why John MacArthur and others NEED to rescind their teaching
on the forgive-ability of taking the mark of the beast!! (NB: Is it any
wonder the call for the "patient endurance of the Saints" is repeated
in the context of the mark? - Rev. 13:10 & 14:12.)
Dear loving Creator, Savior, Sustainer and Soon-Coming King,
please help us discern the insight in this quote:
"If I neglect the passages You have graciously given for the
purpose of better discerning the many false teachings that are
currently being propagated today, will I not be making a con-
scious choice toward casting aside one crucial means You
have provided to help me avoid becoming deceived?" And
Lord, help us discern these "false teachings" also may apply
to interpretations not explicitly endorsed in Your Word.
Lord, please open our eyes that we may correctly read our
day as You have so clearly called us to do! Thank You, too,
for the words often attributed to Martin Luther: "The devil is
the Lord's devil." You, in Your awesome sovereignty as God
Most High (in Whom there is no darkness whatsoever), can
redeem even darkness unto Your glory and praise! Lord, You
are so GOOD! We also praise You for Your Counsel: "What
I say to you I say to all: Watch!" * In Jesus Christ's holy
name I pray. Amen
* See Mark 13
____________________
Week of 7/27-31 (B30;15)
Wrapping Up This Concern For Now Through An End-Time Prayer
Let's simply take Daniel's prayer and pray it in light of the New Covenant
we're under in Jesus Christ. Here's Daniel's prayer; Let's pray our own
personal prayers in Christ Jesus' holy name:
"O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and
steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments,
we have sinned and done wrong and acted wickedly and rebelled,
turning aside from your commandments and rules. We have not
listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to
our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the
land. To you, O Lord, belongs righteousness but to us open shame,
as at this day, to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem,
and to all Israel, those who are near and those who are far away,
in all the lands to which you have driven them, because of the
treachery that they have committed against you. To us, O
LORD, belongs open shame, to our kings, to our princes, and
to our fathers, because we have sinned against you. To the Lord
our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against
him and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God by walking
in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets. All
Israel has transgressed your law and turned aside, refusing to obey
your voice. And the curse and oath that are written in the Law of
Moses the servant of God have been poured out upon us, because
we have sinned against him. He has confirmed his words, which he
spoke against us and against our rulers who ruled us, by bringing
upon us a great calamity. For under the whole heaven there has
not been done anything like what has been done against Jerusalem.
As it is written in the Law of Moses, all this calamity has come upon
us; yet we have not entreated the favor of the LORD our God,
turning from our iniquities and gaining insight by your truth.
Therefore the LORD has kept ready the calamity and has brought it
upon us, for the LORD our God is righteous in all the works that he
has done, and we have not obeyed his voice. And now, O Lord our
God, who brought your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty
hand, and have made a name for yourself, as at this day, we have
sinned, we have done wickedly.
O Lord, according to all your righteous acts, let your anger and your
wrath turn away from your city Jerusalem, your holy hill, because for
our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and your
people have become a byword among all who are around us. Now
therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his
pleas for mercy, and for your own sake, O Lord, make your face to
shine upon your sanctuary, which is desolate.
O my God, incline your ear and hear. Open your eyes and see our
desolations, and the city that is called by your name. For we do not
present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but
because of your great mercy. O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive. O
Lord, pay attention and act. Delay not, for your own sake, O my
God, because your city and your people are called by your name."
(Daniel 9:4b-19 ; ESV)
____________________
Week of 8/3-7 (B31;15) [ FB ]
Perspective As HE Would Have It
What examples to us ...
Hananiah had perspective!
Mishael had perspective!
Azariah had perspective!
Daniel had perspective!!!
These Judeans (Dan. 1:6) offer so much help for today and bright
hope for tomorrow. Perspective indeed!
Let's glean ...
1. Holy In seeking to be right before Almighty
Obedience God, they stayed away from the many
Daniel 1 attractive-on-the-surface defilements.
Lord, please help us do likewise. First, help us to go to Your Word
so we're clear on just what the defilements are today. And then,
please further transform us by Your Word as only it can. Help us
to separate from the darkness this world is manifesting today. Give
us RESOLVE to say "NO" to the Lake-of-Fire attractions (that is,
the death-bringing compromises) all around us.
2. Humble In seeking to live pleasing to the Creator
Obedience of all things, they walked humbly with
Daniel 2 their God. (vv. 17,18)
Lord, please help us do likewise. Help us to live out Micah 6:8:
He has shown thee, O man, what is good and what the Lord
requires of thee: But to do justly, and to love mercy, and to
walk humbly with thy God. * Thank You for the perspective of
humble confidence whereby Daniel went on to give You the
glory as he lived out Your gifting in his life.
* [ Click Here for some practical Micah 6:8 examples to
follow - ones most pertinent for life in Christ today! (It's
the link in FAQ #42.)]
3. Victorious In seeking to protect their loving relationship
Obedience with the One Who matters most, they resolved
Daniel 3 to OBEY no matter what the cost.
Lord, please help us do likewise. We need to establish and/or firm up
a more biblical perspective in this day of ours. So many are not
prepared - perspectivally so - for the gross evils soon to unfold. Help
us foster the mindset You want us to have whereby we will take a
stand on Your Truths, much like these three did millennia ago. Help us
to say, "We will NOT bow!" when a different image of gold appears.
Help us to be in Your Word for crucial details (e.g., Rev. 13:14,15).
THANK YOU, Lord, for seeing these examples in Your Word! What
Counsel they offer to us today. Your revelation is indeed sweeter than
honey and more to be desired than gold! Holy, holy, holy God: We
PRAISE Thee! Through Jesus Christ we bow before Your glorious
presence. Amen
____________________
Week of 8/10-14 (B32;15) [ FB ]
On Present Day APOSTASY
Paul, under the influence of the Holy Spirit of God, believed our Lord's
Words as accounted in Luke 8:4-15!
God further develops one of the Parable-of-the-Sower themes
through the 1st book of Timothy (quotes taken from the NKJV) ...
~ People can suffer "shipwreck" of faith 1:18-20
~ People will "depart from the faith" in 4:1
the latter times (our day!)
~ People can and have "strayed con- 6:20,21
cerning the faith."
Our LORD Jesus Himself said, "many will fall away" during the
time of the end. (Mt. 24:10 ; ESV & NASB)
The messages from our LORD in Revelation 2 & 3 caution against
the dangers of unrepentance, lukewarmness and mediocrity. He
actually also emphasizes "overcoming" the evils highlighted in these
letters to the churches ... in these letters to the Church ... in these
letters to US!
Those who overcome, what do they experience? And those who
do not overcome, what might they experience? Read it for your-
selves. It's clear to those who have hearts open to God's pressing
Counsel!
SO WHAT'S THE PROBLEM ? ?
Let's STOP picking and choosing some passages in the Word and
rejecting others that don't fit rational, theological schemes of man.
Let's allow the full Counsel of God to bring the BALANCE we so
desperately need today. (And just how does one define "balance"?
Again, the entirety of the Word of God brings humbling illumination.
Praise to His dear name!)
When I make these kinds of appeals, I often get response from those
who believe passionately in the other side of the coin. So, on this
theme - apostasy - some respond with this fair question: "So can
one lose his/her salvation?" A great question.
Our answer, in part, in light of the full Counsel of the Word of God:
IF God has truly saved, then absolutely NOT! But if one's name
has not been written and retained in the Lamb's Book of Life - let's
read ALL the passages addressing this matter of names being
written in the Book! - if one's name has not been written and
retained in the Lamb's Book of Life, then it's clear even by the
Parable of the Seed and Sower which we opened this blog with
that one can indeed "fall away from the faith," * especially
today. Again, let's allow I Tim. 4:1 to say what it actually says.
* NB: The Scriptures also clearly teach the security of the believer
in light of God's sovereign call, election, etc. but once again,
let's balance these many passages in light of the FULL
Counsel of God! (So please do not falsely label me as
Arminian in theological perspective! And by all means do
not call me Reformed or a Calvinist either! See our Lord
Jesus' harsh words on traditions of men in Mt. 15:1-20.)
So where does this leave us?
"How shall we now live?"
Just like we've been counseled! In part, read Phil. 2:12,13, and
II Pet. 1:10 (and even I Cor. 15:1,2 & Romans 8 - and please
include the many "ifs" in these two passages!).
O gracious, merciful Lord of lords and King of kings, please help
us rightly divide Your Word of Truth as we seek to heed that to
which You've called us: Col. 3:16a. YES, may the Word of Christ
dwell in us richly ... and correctly as You have so graciously out-
lined. Unto Your glory and praise we act and pray; In Christ
Jesus' sweet name. Amen
____________________
Week of 8/17-21 (B33;15)
A BIG - PICTURE Response - Part 2
Please review Part 1 (scroll up to Blog B26;15 - above).
Another critical attitude to further develop on a personal level is a
JOYFUL perspective in the setting of growing hostility.
Here's some additional insight from on high - from God's Counsel
which serves as help toward the end of counting it all JOY ...
"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for
theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile
and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for
My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward
in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
Mt. 5:10-12
"These things I have spoken to you, that you should not be made to
stumble. They will put you out of the synagogues; yes, the time is
coming that whoever kills you will think he offers God service. And
these things they will do to you because they have not known the
Father nor Me. ... These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you
may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good
cheer, I have overcome the world." John 16:1-3,33
"We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God."
Acts 14:22b
"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy
to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
Romans 8:18b
[ Sorry, too long to quote here but do take in this awesome Counsel! ]
Hebrews 10 - 13
Dear Lord Jesus, may we, in Your mercy and grace, ENDURE in these
days of great apostasy. We praise You, Creator, Sustainer, Savior and
Coming King. Amen
(The above quotes in this blog - B33;15 - were taken from the NKJV.)
____________________
Week of 8/24-28 (B34;15) [ FB ]
In The Grand Scheme Of Things
Are you a movie buff?
Do you recall the food critic (by the name of Anton Ego) in the
animation film, Ratatouille ?
At one point in the movie he pays Gusteau's Restaurant a visit in
order to critique the new kid (i.e., cook) on the block. In light of
his dining experience, he shares (in his newspaper review the
next day) this dose of introspection:
"In many ways the work of a critic is easy. We risk very little
yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and
theirselves [sic] to our judgments. We thrive on negative
criticism which is fun to write and read. But the bitter truth
we critics must face is that, in the grand scheme of things,
the average piece of junk is probably more meaningful than
our criticism designating it so. ..."
Interesting perspective !
Speaking of "perspective," Anton Ego offers this insight in a
different setting in the movie:
"... [Do] you know what I'm craving? A little perspective - that's
it! I'd like some fresh, clear, well-seasoned perspective. ...
Since you're all out of perspective and no one else seems to
have it in this bloody town, I'll make you a deal: You provide
the food; I'll provide the perspective! ..."
So one may rightly ask: "What does Ratatouille have [anything!]
to do with end-time matters?"
In application on the theme of perspective I respectfully ask: Are
followers of Jesus Christ living out HIS perspective today?
What of precious examples to us, examples which model the
biblical passages which we highlighted in the last blog - B33;15.
~ Consider Corrie and Betsie ten Boom - perspective in the most
wicked of circumstances ...
Betsie's testimony of PEACE and JOY in the horrific Ravensbruck
concentration camp where - in the hearing of birds singing in the
cold morning, dreadful work conditions and yes, even lice - their
PERSPECTIVE was that of peace and joy.
~ Consider Horatio Spafford - perspective in the setting of grievous loss ...
After having lost his four daughters in the sinking of the ship, Ville du
Havre, he penned the famous hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul." The
fourth verse - stanza 4 - models perspective during the unfolding of
the end of days:
"And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend,
Even so it is well with my soul."
Yes, what PERSPECTIVE - which we, too, should also enjoy
TODAY - in the setting of upcoming (future-to-this-moment)
eschatological Truths!
~ Consider the King of kings and Lord of lords: Jesus
Christ - perspective in a never-before-experienced
unimaginable moment (i.e., separation of relationship
with His Father!) ...
He endured the cross:
"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a
cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin
which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance
the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author
and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before
Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat
down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Heb. 12:1,2 ;
NKJV) (And keep reading the verses that follow, not to
mention the preceding chapter ... the whole book of
Hebrews for that matter because the Old Covenant is
no longer!)
Thank You, Lord! May we have Your PERSPECTIVE going into this
season of the overcoming of the Saints. * Lord, may we live Your
Mt. 24:13 mandate: Endure to the end ... and so be saved! Unto
Your glory and praise, Father. In the name of your beloved Son,
Christ Jesus, I pray. Amen
* Rev. 13:7 ... Daniel 7:25 also miraculously foretells the same!
____________________
Week of 8/31 - 9/4 (B35;15) [ FB ]
The BEAUTIES Of GOD's Rainbow !
What a glorious sight! The brilliant colors of the full double rainbow
which my wife and I caught together is most difficult to describe. It
was sincerely one of the most precious things we have ever
witnessed together.
As we reflected on the gracious message in the rainbow that day,
we were once again humbled by God's faithfulness. Amazing!
About 4,400 years ago God placed a rainbow in the heavens to
remind humanity that He would never again destroy the earth
through a global flood. Once again, God has been faithful to
His promise. But you know what? There's more - much more!
For us, the rainbow also brings great JOY and PEACE in that we
serve a most glorious, transcendent Creator Who designed the
physics in such a way as to allow for this awesome visual aid. He
did so for a purpose - to communicate a message filled with mercy,
grace and hope! The only self-existent One is always faithful to
His Word. So when my wife and I see a rainbow in the sky, we
think about His sweet, holy, trustworthy character. It sincerely is
that which correctly put us on our knees in praise to Him.
But, once again, there's yet another part of God's being true to
His Word, one we find especially comforting in this dark day. We
often wander in that mental direction when we see new rainbows
in the heavens. The blessed comfort is this:
We, on bended knee, PRAISE GOD for His promises concerning
His cleansing judgment upon the present heavens, the earth and
those who dwell thereon. We praise God He is faithful to His Word
concerning His putting to end all sin and darkness one day. With
soft, peaceful smiles, we close our eyes, bow our heads and
whisper, "Thank You Lord that You will make a quick work of this
earth and that You will do so soon. Even so, please come quickly
Lord Jesus!"
So the next time you see a rainbow in the sky, remember:
God is faithful to His promises - ALL of them! He will pour out
His just wrath on this wickedness soon. Those who have said "yes"
to His love gift in His Son, Jesus Christ - that gift being His atoning
death whereby the shedding of His blood brings forgiveness to
those who believe - will not suffer this wrath but will be caught up
prior to its release in the Bowls of Wrath if they survive the
period of the Saints' overcoming. Those who are called "Tribula-
tion Saints" will enjoy the Revelation 7 REST ... as, once again,
God is faithful to His Word! God Most High, we bless and
praise You!
So take JOY dear Saints in Jesus Christ. God's forewarnings
concerning the evil of the final generation will unfold and His
judgments will one day be fully extended. Until then, IF we
remain until the glorious final trumpet rapture gathering,
PRAISE Him from Whom all blessings flow. Praise YHVH
God and join others in declaring:
There is no eternal God but YHVH and His Beloved Son,
Christ Jesus - the Creator of all things and our holy Savior
and Lord. By His Spirit's moving we proclaim: "All praise
alone be to His glorious Name!" YES! As the song goes:
Give thanks, with a grateful heart ...
Thank You, LORD, for Your promises to us. Thank You for the
grace and mercy pictured in Your rainbow. We also thank You
for this glorious aspect of the picture: You are faithful to Your
Word. Thank You that You are a righteous God Who will bring
Your wrath upon a dark world who refuses the love of the truth
whereby they could be saved ... saved from the hour of Your
wrath in the Bowls of Wrath, yes, but also from Your eternal
wrath as expressed in the Lake of Fire. All praise alone be
to Your glorious name. Amen
____________________
Week of 9/7-11 (B36;15)
On Fostering Perspectival Preparedness …
Do you recall the lyrics: “Whatcha gonna do when they
come for you”? (Inner Circle’s Bad Boys hit song in 1987)
Way to go Kentucky clerk, Kim Davis! …
Continue ENDURING dear Family members:
Melissa & Aaron Klein (et al. – many and growing!)
And what about our Family in Christ who are being
persecuted in more physical ways? THANK YOU dear
Family. Thank you for presenting current examples of
how sincere followers of Jesus Christ act. Thank you
for your modeling unto His glory and praise. May WE
be those who follow your sweet witness!
Scripture clearly teaches those who live godly in
Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. So what’s the
problem? Why are so many Christians (by name)
unwilling to face this truth: We live in a day when
society is growing in distain for committed followers
of Jesus Christ. This is exactly what the Word said
would unfold prior to the initial appearing of the Lamb.
So are you prepared for a day when YOU may face
similar experiences to that which the four Judeans
faced before Nebuchadnezzar almost 3,000 years ago?
(that is, IF you’re faithful to the Lord of lords and King
of kings, Jesus Christ!)
It’s time to build perspective such that we are more apt to
endure in our commitment to God and say “NO” to the
apostasy being offered in so many ways, in so many forms.
Remember, those who endure to the end will be saved. (Mt. 24:13)
Sweet Father God, we PRAISE You for graciously allowing us
opportunities to join millions in the sufferings of Christ. Thank You
for Your kind gestures allowing us time to mentally prepare for the
days WE, too, will suffer on Your Son’s behalf. THANK YOU! As
the early Church understood, may we, too, be privileged with this:
“We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”
(see Acts 14:22) God, please be praised!
NB: We are offering seminars on this biblical theme in the
following locations: Portland (OR) Metro on January 9th,
2016 and in the greater Benewah County (ID) area on
the closing Saturdays of October, 2015. For more infor-
mation on bringing a helpful-to-His-Church seminar to your
area, please contact us using our contact form above.
____________________
Week of 9/14-18 (B37;15)
God's Holy Judgments
Was it wrong of God to judge His wayward Old Covenant people?
Is it wrong of God to judge His wayward New Covenant people,
especially considering God (as our heavenly Father) is One Who
disciplines those who are His ... those who He loves?
Is Scripture wrong when it says, "For the time has come for judgment
to begin at the house of God ..." (see I Peter 3:8 - 4:19) ?
Let's take time to read the New Testament in it's own right. Many of
us will actually be surprised as to what it says (when we allow it to say
what it actually says)! Let's resolve to read through the New Testament -
though in no way neglecting the Old Testament revelation from God! -
through the course of a three-month period. His promise to us: His Word
will not return to Him void but will accomplish what He pleases and will
prosper it in the thing for which He sends it.
For a sample schedule, please ask us for our NT Read Through on our
"Contact Us" page - CLICK HERE. Simply email us and we'll send you
this worthy read[ing schedule].
Once again, dear Abba Father, THANK YOU for Your Word. It is indeed
a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. Do further conform us to
the image of Your dear Son through your powerful Word. In His dear
and precious name we pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 9/21-25 (B38;15)
The Continued 2015 Reading Schedule (October - December)
"The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament
shows His handiwork.” (Psalm 19:1 ; NKJV)
October 1 Psalm 1 It’s truly amazing how
October 2 Psalm 2 these Psalms speak to
… etc. … our needs in this hour!
October 30 Psalm 30
October 31 Psalm 31 ENJOY!
November 1 Rev. 1
November 2 Rev. 2
… etc. …
November 21 Rev. 21
November 22 Rev. 22
November 23 Mt. 24
November 24 Mt. 25
November 25 Mk. 13
November 26 Lk. 17
November 27 Lk. 21
November 28 John 14
November 29 John 15
November 30 John 16
December 1 Daniel 1
December 2 Daniel 2
... etc. ...
December 11 Daniel 11
December 12 Daniel 12
December 13 Rev. 1
December 14 Rev. 2
December 15 Rev. 3
December 16 Rev. 4
December 17 Rev. 5
December 18 Rev. 6
December 19 II Thes. 2
December 20 I Thes. 5
December 21 I Tim. 4
December 22 II Tim. 3
December 23 II Tim. 4
December 24 I Thes. 4
December 25 I Cor. 15
December 26 Mt. 24
December 27 Mk. 13
December 28 Lk. 17
December 29 Lk. 21
December 30 Rev. 11
December 31 Rev. 14
Forever, O Lord, is Thy Word settled in heaven - Your
sweet faithfulness endures to all generations! Please
help us discern the difference between Your explicit
Word from that of the incorrect interpretations of man
(e.g., The Blood Moon false prophecies) and help us
to ENDURE in seeking Your Counsel in these days just
prior to Your Son’s glorious initial appearing ... unto our
protection and unto Your glory and praise! Even so,
please come quickly Lord Jesus. Amen
4th Quarter Blogs
Week of 9/28 - 10/2 (B39;15)
The FINAL Blood Moon Of 2015 Has Come And Gone ... Now What?
WARNING: Darkness uses cheap, deceptive substitutes and false
alarms to distract. Don't fall prey to the "Wolf! Wolf!" syndrome. Let's
not follow the examples of the town folk in the ancient Greek story, The
Boy Who Cried Wolf.
While there are incorrect eschatological (end-time) "Wolf! Wolf!" cries
which are false alarms today (e.g., the 2014/2015 Blood Moon cries from
certain false teachers/prophets), this fact remains: Jesus Christ's initial
appearing will one day indeed take place. Let's heed our Lord's instruction
and keep watching whereby we're ready!
Please listen to our half-hour radio broadcasts for insightful DOs and
DON'Ts tied to this current cultural affair.
For our UPCOMING radio broadcasts (addressing the Final Blood
Moon of the 2014/2015 tetrad on the night of September 27pm/28am)
on Saturday, Sept. 26th and Saturday, October 3rd at 10:30 AM (PST),
please visit: www.truetalk800.com and simply click the "Listen Live" link
and you're good to go - that is, you can listen to the live broadcasts at
that time.
For our PRIOR KPDQ True Talk Radio broadcasts on this topic
(also through Heart of the Savior Ministries) ...
1. 7/04/15 Blood Moon Prophecies
2. 2/14/15 A Prophetic Observation of Matthew 24
3. 12/13/14 Christmas and God's Word ...
Click Here
Gracious, Holy, Father God, Thank You for Your generous revelation to
us whereby we KNOW the 2014/2015 Blood Moons are not the fulfillments
of the many passages which foretell Your signs in the heavens* - signs
which follow the tribulation and great tribulation (as defined by Your
Word) and which precede the initial appearing of Your beloved Son,
Jesus Christ.** Help us to properly handle Your Word by simply affirming
the actual content therein and by quiet submission to Your Holy Spirit's
ministry of illumination. In the precious name of the One Who is coming
soon, I pray. Amen
* see Matt. 24:29 ; Rev. 6:12,13 (two of many passages)
** see Matt. 24:30 ; Rev. 6:14-17 (two of many passages)
Note: There are other false dogmatic cries being taught in some
churches today. For Bible-founded stories exposing some of these
dangerous myths, please visit: www.enduranceministries.org.
____________________
Week of 10/5-9 (B40;15) [ FB ]
"The Needs Of The Many ..."
Do you recall Spock's infamous quote in the motion picture,
Star Trek 2: The Wrath of Khan ?
"The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few ... or the one."
What an example of conditioning for something the Bible explicitly
states will unfold in the days ahead: Great persecution against
(both) God's Old and New Covenant People. Be watching global
culture these next five years and you will better discern why we
tie Spock's quote with the projection immediately above. The
accuracy of Scripture is once again miraculous!
In the days of yore, when the biblical worldview was dominant,
people were graciously extended freedoms to live in light of
mankind being made in the image of God. It's quite a different
picture these days now that the secularists are in majority!
Today, as the secular worldview rules, things are not as fair.
People are often NOT allowed to hold their convictions on
important biblical concerns. Instead, even legislation (a clear
violation of the 1st Amendment - the making of laws contrary to
the free expression of religion*) slaps people with court rulings
which violate our most basic Constitutional freedoms. WOW!
"How can this be?" one might ask. It's taking place just like God
foretold it would. It's truly amazing how accurate the Word of
God is.
Please read it for insight second to none. And give our book (which
is most Bible-affirming) a look over. Click Here
* "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion,
or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of
speech, or of the press; or the people peaceably to assemble, and to
petition the government for a redress of grievances." (emphasis ours)
Dear Heavenly Father - God of lights, please grace Your people in Your
Son, Jesus Christ, with resolve to endure in the ways You've clearly
outlined in Your Word. Help us to patiently live for You in these barbaric
days** prior to Your beloved Son's initial appearing. Give us boldness in
accord with Your will in this matter, please. We pray this unto Your glory
and praise. Amen
** e.g. last week's mass murder at Umpqua Community College near
Roseburg, OR
____________________
Week of 10/12-16 (B41;15)
The Court Of WHAT ... Public Opinion?
Where's the policing of those who reject our most basic
Constitutional freedoms?
In our form of government, which branch enforces the LAW?
Correct: The Executive Branch
So WHY isn't our Executive Branch honoring its pledge to uphold
our Constitution by policing those who reject the very basic free-
doms we hold most dear? WHY isn't our government holding
people (who place their opinions ABOVE the basic freedoms of
the United States of America) accountable ... people like Justice
Richard Bosson?
Just WHO says honoring the court's ANTI-Constitution decision
is "... the price of citizenship" ?
Where are you Executive Branch?!
Dear Creator God Who has graciously extended FREEDOMS to live
out our personal convictions, please withhold Your blessings on our
country due to its rejection of You and Your precious principles!
In fact, Lord, prepare Your people to live under a period of Your
righteous judgment due to secular society’s rejection of Your
ways. Help us better understand You are not to be faulted when
Your just and fair discipline comes. Help us to seize the day and
redeem opportunities for the advancement of Your glory and praise.
In the name of Your Divine Son, Christ Jesus I pray. Even so,
please come quickly Lord Jesus! Amen
____________________
Week of 10/19-23 (B42;15)
COSTLY Ill-Preparedness
I have a friend who moved into a much colder climate some
years ago. Because he failed to add fluid (which had anti-
freeze properties) to his windshield wiper reservoir, the water
froze and, as the ice expanded, cracked the container.
Bummer! He no longer had windshield wiper fluid available
because the water now leaked out through the new (large!)
crack. This made for dangerous driving conditions at times.
Here’s a crucial lesson contained in this true story, one we
all would greatly benefit by if we are willing to take some
application steps – that is, actions toward needed prepared-
ness:
Had my friend adequately prepared – and it wouldn’t have
taken a whole lot to do so – it would have saved him a lot of
grief. In like manner, if we (each and every one of us) prepare
for the days ahead as we are Counseled by our Lord to do,
grave dangers – ones which are presently growing TODAY –
could be avoided.
Our Lord calls us, His people in Jesus Christ, to be ready for His
coming and watchful/discerning through the days immediately
prior to His coming. This long-awaited-for coming takes place
at His initial appearing as outlined in Matthew 24:30 and
Revelation 6:14-17. Before this glorious sign of the Son of Man
takes place in the sky, the tribulation and great tribulation (as
defined by Mt. 24!) period unfolds. A global famine affecting
billions will also occur prior to our Lord’s glorious appearing. So
here’s our Truthful appeal taken from the New King James version
(our Lord Jesus Christ speaking):
“Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who
took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Now five
of them were wise, and five were foolish. Those who were foolish
took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with
their lamps. But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all
slumbered and slept. And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold.
the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!’ Then all those
virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to
the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’
But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be
enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy
for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came,
and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and
the door was shut. Afterward the other virgins came also, saying,
‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I
say to you, I do not know you.’ Watch therefore, for you know
neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is
coming.” (Matthew 25:1-13; NJKV ; emphasis ours)
The prudent foresee evil and calamity and prepare in such ways
as graciously outlined in God’s holy, caring Word.
Lord, please help us be READY for Your return as YOU have so
instructed. Help us to do so by heeding Your kind revelation to us!
THANK YOU for Mt. 24 & 25, Mk. 13, Lk. 17 & 21, I Thes. 4 & 5;
II Thes. 2, I Tim. 4 and II Tim. 3 & 4. THANK YOU for the books
of Daniel and Revelation! Those shepherding-care passages so
help in outlining just how we need to be ready as YOU have
commanded Your followers to be. THANK YOU for being our
caring Shepherd Who lovingly directs Your sheep in such a wolf-
ridden day. Please open our eyes to the clear Counsel You have
so graciously given! Yes Lord: THANK YOU! In Christ Jesus’
holy and precious name we pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 10/26-30 (B43;15)
Charged (Wrongly) & Sentenced
Jesus Christ came to seek and to save that which was lost.
Through His provision – His shed blood on Calvary – those
who believe Him unto salvation have forgiveness of sin
and experience regeneration. Those who truly believe go
on, in Christ, to produce justifying fruit – even the thief on
the cross, through his words, manifested faith and enjoyed
justification before God. (see Mt. 12:33-37 ; Lk. 23:32,39-43)
Those who truly believe also manifest saving faith through
deeds/works – done as a result of the fruit of His Spirit and
abiding in Christ. (see Heb. 11 ; James 2 ; Gal. 5 ; John 15
and many other passages)
As we walk in Jesus Christ’s footsteps, we (His followers),
too, will be falsely accused by men. Yes, as we follow our
Lord’s example, and as we live in accord with the full Counsel
of His Word, we may also find ourselves wrongly charged &
sentenced by some.
How might we respond in these settings?
While our Lord Jesus initially rebutted the false charges
of the religious leaders, He later stopped speaking and
let them persist in bringing their false charges. He was
silent before His accusers.
He also loved them – His enemies – who slandered in
their false charges.
May we, too, love and pray for those who libel and slander
us in like manner.
In these settings, praying Psalm 86 brings helpful peace
and joyful perspective, as does Mt. 5:1-16. :-)
If you are not currently “in Christ” (that is, born from above),
PLEASE CLICK HERE.
Father … [pray Ps. 86] … Thank You for Your vindication
and exoneration of Your faithful children in Your Son …
in Your time … unto Your glory and praise. In Jesus
Christ’s name I pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 11/2-6 (B44;15)
An Appeal To Our Friends In Hollywood
Dear Stealth Christian Actors,
NOW is the time to come out of the closet !
The days are numbered and we'd challenge you to follow the BOLD
examples of
Jennifer O'Neill
Gavin MacLeod
Sean Astin and others
and declare your commitment to Jesus Christ.
Be those, like the above, who will be commended by the Lord of lords
whereby you hear: "Well done good and faithful servant. Enter into
My joy!"
Father God, THANK YOU for the picture the above actors model to
us in their commitments to You! Help us, each and every one, to walk
their path - Your path - and demonstrate that we are indeed NOT ashamed
of the Gospel of Jesus Christ Your Son. In His precious and holy name I
pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 11/9-13 (B45;15)
Question: No One Can Work ? ... Answer: "No Way!"
The above rejection - a faulty perspective - of the Son of God's
teaching is dangerous.
"I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the
night is coming when no one can work." Jesus Christ in
John 9:4 (NKJV)
There are so many things in place such that the system could
further censor Christ-honoring efforts today (whereby contributing
to the future projection: one can no longer work ). It would be
easy, even at this juncture, to shut down many venues through
which the biblical end-time principles are shared. There are other
efforts unfolding where live (that is, personal) appeals (as opposed
to the bringing of messages through the Internet) will be closed.
What a day we find ourselves in! Our Lord is once again right on
in disclosing CRUCIAL insight for end-time living ... for those who
are willing to give it some consideration anyway! Which raises
this fair and most worthy question: Are you reading His love
gift - His Word - on a regular basis? We sure hope so.
In conclusion: Question: No work? Answer: "YES Way!" And
this day is coming sooner than most of us think. Are we "ready"
as our Lord Jesus has called His own to be?
The following prayer is taken from "Worship From The Heart."
(author unknown)
"Father, I acknowledge that following You separates me from the
world. I praise You that Your power is sufficient to keep me from
the counsel of the ungodly. Open my eyes to see 'Babylon'
around me and keep me from its evil influence. Keep me in
Your Word that I might be clean through the words You have
spoken. Amen."
____________________
Week of 11/16-20 (B46;15)
BOTH Covenant Peoples Present: On Dispensational False Hope
The following blog will anger some but it is better to honor the Lord of
the "everlasting Covenant" than to appease men, thus I do what I need
to do.
There are MANY false-hope appeals today. One is tied to many
dispensational systems which suggest a new dispensation begins
at the tail end of human history before the Lord's Second Advent (that
is, His Return to the earth) and His millennial rule.
One false hope (of some expressions of contemporary dispensationalism
and one most impacting to practical living today) is the teaching that a
dispensation of Tribulation - (the 7-year period of Tribulation) as claimed
to be outlined (and oddly defined by some) in Daniel 9 - begins at the
Covenant of Daniel 9:27 (which, the advocates of this perspective say
[NOT us!], takes place shortly AFTER the dispensation of grace con-
cludes at the Pre-Trib global Rapture event). Fact: This Pre-Trib
Rapture event will not happen! The eternal gracious Covenant in Christ
Jesus is everlasting.
Here are some factual problems tied to this false-hope (false) teaching:
1. No explicit (Bible) evidence for the Pre-Trib Rapture can be given;
2. The New Covenant is ETERNAL and is not replaced by another
(e.g., a Dispensation of Tribulation, for example);
3. The Scriptures teach the coming of our Lord and our gathering
together to Him (His initial appearing is the beginning of the
"Day of Christ" / "Day of the Lord") will FOLLOW two things:
the apostasy and the revealing of the man of sin/lawlessness.
(see II Thes. 2 and CLICK HERE for other related insight);
4. Some incorrectly say there's no other good way to construct the
end-time scenario (other than the Pre-Trib position) so they
encourage the sheep to believe the blessed hope of the Pre-
Trib Rapture. To which we respectfully but passionately say,
"FALSE!" to these dangerous dogmatic promises of peace and
safety. Please consider a Christ-honoring, Bible-affirming posi-
tion which is much more biblically evidenced: CLICK HERE
Both Covenant peoples will walk through the period called tribulation
(as defined by our Lord Jesus in Mt. 24). The 144,000 will be the first
fruits who ascend into heaven (Rev. 14) followed by the two witnesses
(at the conclusion of the 6th Trumpet - see Rev. 11). Then the "final
trumpet" of I Cor. 15 will sound (also see Mt. 24:31 & Rev. 11:15ff) and
God's New Covenant people will also be taken ... before the wrath of
God is poured out on the earth dwellers. (Rev. 16)
So where does this leave us? We encourage you to reconsider the
explicit Bible data on this matter due to all that's happening today.
Signs preceding our Lord's return are taking place all around us.
NOW is the time to allow the Word of God to say what it actually
says RE: the end of days. Our gracious Lord has extended crucial
Counsel to us to heed during this time.
Dear precious everlasting Father of lights, please direct us, Your
people in Jesus Christ, by the Spirit of Your dear Son - Your Holy
Spirit - whereby we better discern Your will as to how we should
prepare and be "ready" as You have so clearly outlined. Help us
do so for our protection, for ministry efforts to those who still need
You, and ultimately unto Your glory and praise. In Jesus Christ's
name we pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 11/23-27 (B47;15)
Our PRAYER Too ...
Our Father, Who art in heaven,
hallowed be Thy name!
Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and
forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive
those who trespass against us.
Lead us not into temptation but
deliver us from evil.
For thine is the Kingdom and the power and
the glory, forever and ever.
In Jesus Christ's holy name we pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 11/30 - 12/4 (B48;15)
What Part Of “NO!” Don’t We Understand?
Have you read the story of Balaam lately?
It’s found in Numbers 22-25, 31.
Had Balaam OBEYED the Lord’s initial answer (“No”), he most
likely would not have COMPROMISED as he did – see revelation
revealing the full picture: Jude 11 & Rev. 2:14.
WOW! And yet God, as God, redeems persistent rebellion
unto His glory and praise.
While Balaam used sorcery (the setting or context thereof
was the act of sacrificing bulls and rams) to bring his divining
message – to bring his first two declarations – Balaam’s third
message was illumined by the “Spirit of God.”
But Balaam’s story does not end at Numbers 24:25.
Apparently, Balaam, for dark purposes in opposition to God’s
Counsel, went on to promote immoral idolatry through additional
counsel (to Balak). And what did the fruits of compromise get
him? Answer: Read Numbers 31:8, Jude 11 & Rev. 2:14.
In application …
What part of “NO!” don’t we understand? Here’s Corrie Ten Boom’s
insight on the topic of seeking counsel from sources other than the
unadulterated Word of God:
“Look Away From The Stars”
To receive God’s guidance you need to make a clean break
from all other forms of guidance. Do not look at the stars, at
the palm of your hand, or listen to a fortune-teller. These
things are an abomination in God’s sight.
God knows the future.
God plans the future.
God has told us the future in his Word.
You shall be blameless before the Lord your God. Deut. 18:13 RSV
Lord Jesus, forgive me for looking in the wrong direction. Teach
me your way.
(Taken from page 207 in Each New Day - November 10th reading)
And here’s His Counsel (in the context of our Father’s New
Covenant in Christ Jesus His beloved Son):
Ecc. 12:13,14 ; Micah 6:8 ; John 14 -16 ; Heb. 8 – 13 ; et al.
Dear Father of lights in Whom there is no variation or shadow of
turning: Help us rightly live our lives in Christ Jesus – Savior and
Lord. Through Your Spirit’s empowering, may we continue living
out our new lives in Him … unto Your glory and praise. In Jesus
Christ’s name we pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 12/7-11 (B49;15)
Upcoming Ministry Appeals
2015 has been a tumultuous year in huge respects. Cultural FACTS
cannot be denied (unless one is willing to embrace the deceits of our
day). While some would reject the Truth that God's Word, the Bible, has
forewarned us of many of these cultural presentries, the FACTS cannot
be denied - again, unless one is unwilling to live in the present world
where events and movements have and do indeed unfold.
In light of BIBLICAL eschatology, our blogs for 2016 (Lord willing), will
include the following series of blogs, among other posts in response to
local, domestic and foreign happenings.
1. On Both / And Affirming God's FULL Counsel
2. Sufficient Grounds On what do we base our beliefs?
3. On The Global System Foundations in the making
4. Dangerous Teachings (within cultural Christianity)
5. Biblical End-Time THEMES for ENDURANCE sake
6. Calling A Spade A Spade Periodic "Reality Checks"
7. End-Time Bible Truths Sound Truth Foundations
We will also be blogging on cultural trends as they are further
developed AND as they initially express themselves in culture.
Join us, please, in the following prayer:
Lord, open our eyes that we may discern our day. Help us, Lord, we pray.
Open our eyes as we read Your Word. In light thereof, please open our
eyes to the lateness of the hour. Open our eyes concerning the better
formation of correct belief which brings correct action. Do so, we pray,
due to all the deception of our day. And Lord, please come quickly. In
Christ Jesus' name we pray. Amen
____________________
Week of 12/14-18 (B50;15)
Star Wars ... The Force Awakens?
Factually speaking, the “force” of Star Wars – yet another contemporary
expression of the spirit of antichrist – has been growing in global
culture for quite some time now … even prior to the initial movie
release in 1977.
This dark worldview perspective continues to encourage a
paradigm which will further foster the anti YHVH God mentality
forewarned in Scripture. Once again: God’s Word (the Bible) is
amazing. Are we seeking His Counsel as we need to be doing?
We sure hope so!
The panentheistic belief tied to Star Wars’ “force,” due to its
connection to Christ Consciousness, bears eternal significance.
It’s that crucial we discern it for what it is.
The official movie trailer calls people to embrace it (the force):
“The force: It’s calling to you ... just let it in.”
DON’T!
Instead, allow the Spirit of the true historical Messiah – Jesus
Christ – to be your Hope and Strength. He will not disappoint!
In fact, the Holy Spirit of God will see us safely Home.
Praise be … Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ! Even so, please come quickly Lord Jesus. Amen
____________________
Week of 12/21-25 (B51;15)
Our 2016 Reading Schedule for January - March
It's the Holy Bible that provides insight into the near future,
second to no other source on earth. It comes from the One
Who knows all things: Creator God.
Jesus Christ, as the Word of God, created all things and will
continue to sustain His creation until His glorious return. He
KNOWS what's ahead and has graciously informed us whereby
we are not taken captive by the many deceptions of the days
of the end - our days ... IF we are listening !
ENJOY this insight by being in His written Word regularly. The
reading schedule below places emphasis on the Coming One.
(see appropriate honor bestowed in Revelation 4 & 5!)
January 1 John 1
January 2 John 2
- etc. -
January 20 John 20
January 21 John 21
January 22 I John 1
January 23 I John 2
January 24 I John 3
January 25 I John 4
January 26 I John 5
January 27 II John
January 28 III John
January 29 Mt. 24
January 30 Mt. 25
January 31 Mk. 13
February 1 Lk. 1
February 2 Lk. 2
- etc. -
February 23 Lk. 23
February 24 Lk. 24
February 25 I Thes. 4
February 26 I Thes. 5
February 27 I Cor. 15
February 28 II Thes. 2
February 29 Psalm 119
March 1 Mt. 1
March 2 Mt. 2
- etc. -
March 27 Mt. 27
March 28 Mt. 28
March 29 I Tim. 4
March 30 II Tim. 3
March 31 II Tim. 4
Oh Lord, please, through Your precious Holy Spirit, open
our eyes that we may behold wonderful things from Your
Word. In our dear Savior, Christ Jesus' holy name we pray,
amen!
____________________
Week of 12/28 - 1/1/2016 (B52;15)
Pleasant God-Honoring Reflections
Endurance Ministries incorporated as a non-profit in 2000.
We began our service by emphasizing end-time Bible THEMES currently
being expressed in local and global culture. As a clear example, see an
early web page of one of our oldest web sites - CLICK HERE.
Since that time - especially this past year (2015) - we have seen AWESOME
shifts in what popular ministries are now beginning to emphasize. (By way
of example, review Decision magazine. Even Pre-Tribulational authors
are - though only in part! - getting on board: e.g., see the book, Prepare
by Moody President, J. Paul Nyquist; 2015 by Moody Publishers.) Guess
what!?
Of late, the biblical end-time THEMES are the hottest issues of our
day ... and rightly so! They will continue to be most pertinent until our
Lord's initial appearing as outlined in His precious Word. CLICK HERE
for some specifics.
These THEMES will continue to manifest themselves - even in miraculous
signs and wonders as outlined in the Word - in the days, months and years
to come. It's sincerely amazing how God's Word continues to be so
revealing ... to those who are still listening!
As we reflect upon the fruit of our ministry labors since our meager
beginnings, we praise God for the pioneering part He has allowed us.
We take, by God's mercy and grace, great JOY in our early services
in making these Christ-exalting, Church-protecting appeals.
MANY are now making appropriate paradigm shifts which better call
for needed discernment in light of the explicit Counsel in His Word. We
have had a contributing part in encouraging this shift. This is so cool!
Again, a surfing of some of our sites would demonstrate this early
ministry objective:
www.finaltrumpet.org ; www.therapturegathering.com
www.truthfoundations.com ; www.enduranceministries.org
PRAISE THE LORD WITH US IN THIS WORTHY CALLING and please
continue to pray for us as we move forward in this necessary effort of
further fostering the better discerning of our day. Pray for us this new
year in this regard, for some who place unbiblical traditions above the
Word of God CANNOT sufficiently call for the heeding of these biblical
topics due to some of the teachings they hold. In contrast to some of
these unbiblical traditions in the church, please visit this link where
a chart highlighting explicit biblical data on end-time chronology is
presented.
Dear precious Heavenly Father. We praise You. Thank You for sending
Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ - Immanuel. Thank You for the salvation
He alone provides to those who would simply accept, by faith, His provision
of forgiveness through His atoning blood. Thank You, too, for His soon
return.
Until then, dear Father, help us better discern our day whereby we're
ready and watching as You have so clearly outlined in Your Word.
Help us minister to those who hold false traditions which discourage
preparedness. Continue to grant, in Your mercy and grace, a love for
these who, at times it seems, act as if we're their enemies. Give us
Your wisdom and boldness as we endure in speaking Your Truths
in love! Thank You, Abba Father. In our dear Lord Jesus' holy and
precious name I pray. Amen
To EM's 2016 Archived Blogs CLICK HERE