Judgement Day Approaching!

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Today, The Bible & You

Today’s Front Page

The Nation’s Christian Newspaper

December 2023

Judgment Day Approaching!

Israel: The Cup of Trembling

By Dave Hunt

1.) D) Philadelphia Church of God -- Israeli Flag and the Wailing Wall and the Dome of the Rock

 The word “Israel” occurs 2,565 times in 2,293 verses.  More than enough prophecies have already been fulfilled in Israel’s unique history to prove that “the God of Israel” (203 times) is the true God.  In Zechariah 12:2-3, God declares: “Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling unto all the people round about, when they shall be in the siege both against Judah and against Jerusalem. And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it.”

3.) A.) Bible Hub -- Zechariah 12 verse 2, Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of drunkenness to all the surrounding peoples

 This is an amazing prophecy that Jerusalem would become a burden to the whole world and that all of Israel’s neighbors would be united against her. They have fought one another in the past.  Yet today, for the first time in history, “all the people round about” are united by Islam to destroy Israel.  For more than 50 years, Israel’s neighbors have launched surprise attacks against her and she has proved too strong militarily, even though they outnumber her forty to one.  Soundly defeated every time, her Muslim neighbors feign a desire for peace, hoping to deceive and ultimately destroy her.

4.) B.) God vs Satan -- The battle between Good and Evil

 The real battle is not between Arabs and Jews but between the God of Heaven and the god of this world. There is no question of the outcome, but it will be costly for both sides: Israel will be severely punished for rebellion, and her enemies will be destroyed.

5.) A.) U.S. Embassy in Israel -- President Trump Gives an Address to the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly

 Exactly as foretold, Jerusalem is a burden to all people of the world.  More than 60,000 individual votes have been cast in the UN against Israel. This tiny nation with one 1,000th of the world’s population has occupied one-third of the United Nation’s time, a burden indeed!  

                      6.) A.) The Heidelblog -- John Owen Was Not A Baptist  34.) A.) Sydney Anglicans -- Martin Luther's most important impact

                                  John Owen                                       Martin Luther                                       

 John Owen, a leading theologian, wrote in the 17th century: “The Jews shall be gathered…into their homeland.”  This was also the opinion of the poet John Milton, of John Bunyan, Roger Williams, Oliver Cromwell, and many others. Martin Luther wrote: “If the Jews are Abraham’s descendants...[they should be] back in their own land [with] a state of their own.  But...[they are] scattered and despised.” He therefore wrote off the Jews as God’s chosen people and persecuted them.

9.) A.) Calvary Chapel Elk Grove -- The Resurrection of a Nation -- The Miracle of the Modern State of Israel

 But today the Jews are back in their own land after 2,500 years of being scattered worldwide, speaking Hebrew just as King David did 3,000 years ago.  No other people have returned to reestablish their own nation and language after being cast out of their land for such a period of time.

32.) A.) www.history.com -- How Golda Meir Rose to Become the Iron Lady of Israel

Late Prime Minister Golda Meir of Israel

 Some prophecies applicable only to our day are frightening, foretelling God’s judgment.  The language is often graphic: “If I whet my glittering sword, and mine hand take hold on judgment; I will render vengeance to mine enemies…my sword shall devour flesh.” (Deuteronomy 32:41, 42).

 “For, behold, the LORD will come…to render his anger with fury…by his sword…” (Isaiah 66:15, 16).

 “And the slain of the LORD shall be at that day from one end of the earth even unto the other … they shall not be lamented, neither gathered, nor buried…” (Jeremiah 25:33).

10.) B.) NeverThirsty -- What is the Battle of Armageddon -- Which Nations will be there

 The question often asked is whether the United States (or Canada, Australia, et all.) is in Bible prophecy.  Of course!  Scripture declares that every nation in the world will join together to invade Israel in the last days and be destroyed in the battle of Armageddon: “I will gather all nations [surely all includes America] against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken….Then shall the LORD go forth and fight against those nations…” (Zechariah 12:9; Zechariah 14:2-4).

11.) C.) Dailyo -- 1973 - 2023 -- Why the Israel-Hamas War resonates with the Yom Kippur War of 1973

 But wouldn’t the United States be spared for being Israel’s friend?  In fact, the U.S. State Department has often been against Israel.  This was true in the Yom Kippur War.  In a sneak attack (October 1973), 80,000 Egyptians overwhelmed 500 Israeli defenders along the Suez and 1,400 Syrian tanks swept down the Golan with only one Israeli tank in service to oppose them.  Israel was taken by surprise. Most of her armed forces were on holiday.  The initial success of the attackers so electrified the Arab world that nine other Arab states rushed to get in on the slaughter.

12.) A.) WJON -- David A. Rausch, 79, Cold Spring

Historian David A. Rausch

 Historian David A. Rausch writes: “Jordan’s King Hussein sent two of his best armored brigades to Syria. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait financially underwrote the huge cost while sending thousands of troops to fight the Israelis… Kuwait lent her British-made Lightening jets to Egypt.  Libya’s Muammar Qaddafi turned ove forty French-made Mirage III fighters and 100 tanks.  Iraqi MiG fighter jets as well as tank and infantry divisions fought on the Golan Heights, while a squadron of Iraqi Hunter jets were utilized by Egypt.  Arabs predicted the extermination of the Jewish state and the ‘liberation’ of Palestine….”

13.) B.) Wikipedia -- Yom Kippur War -- Maps No 2

 The Soviet Union blocked any UN attempt at a cease-fire and refortified the Arab forces with armaments and supplies by sea and air.  It was the closest Israel ever came to being defeated. But when the war ended, the Israeli tank columns were on the outskirts of Damascus and Cairo and could have taken those cities had they not turned back.  Tragically, Israel suffered about 3.000 dead, which would be comparable to the U.S. losing 150,000.  Except for a series of miracles from God, Israel would not have survived.

14.) C.) Richard Nixon Foundation -- America's Airlift in the 1973 Yom Kippur War  14.) A.) U.S. Naval Institute -- The U.S. Navy in the Yom Kippur War

 Where was her friend, the United States?  Dozens of notices were sent to the Nixon White House by America’s National Security Administration (NSA) that an Arab Pearl Harbor was about to be launched against Israel.  Nixon sat on them.  Kissinger hid at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York the day of the attack and waited another three days before convening the UN Security Council.  Declining to rush desperately needed military supplies to Israel, the White House said it had to be careful not to upset the Arabs and cause an oil crisis.

15.) A.) Washington Report on Middle East Affair -- No Explanation Disproves Israels Guilt in 1967 Attack on USS Liberty -- June - July 2016

 Six years earlier, on June 8, 1967, the fourth morning of the “Six-day War,” the USS Liberty, an electronics eavesdropping vessel, arrived off the Sinai coast and began to suck in every Israeli military communication, relaying it all to the British Secret Service’s giant computer installation on Cyprus. From there, complete maps of every Israeli military move were transmitted in advance to the Arab armed forces.  With that help, the Arabs might have been able to use their overwhelming numerical superiority to turn the tide of the war. Israel had no choice except to sink the Liberty.  Of course, the media screamed about this “cold-blooded attack.”  No one believed Israel’s public excuse that the Liberty had been mistaken for a hostile Egyptian ship, and neither the U.S. nor Israel has publicly told the truth.

16.) G.) Living Waters -- These Are the Nations That Will Attack Israel -- Air Force Squadron with Tactical Nuclear Weapon Blasts and Missles

 Yes, the United States, too, will attack Israel and will be punished at Armageddon.  God declares plainly that He will bring all nations against Israel to destroy them: “In the latter days…I will bring thee against my land…my fury shall come up in my face…there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel…the fishes of the sea, and the fowls of the heaven, and the beasts of the field, and all creeping things [on] the earth, and all the men [on] the face of the earth, shall shake at my presence…[all nations] shall know that I am the Lord.” (Ezekiel 38:16-23).

17.) B.) Living Grace Fellowhip -- God Judges Israel's Enemies with a Star of David like on Israel's Flag

 This is terrifying language!  What causes this “great shaking” of the entire planet and every living creature upon it?  God is personally coming to earth as He did at Mount Sinai when He gave the Law and He is going to take vengeance upon the enemies of Israel!

18.) C.) True Bible Teaching -- Jerusalem Future Capital of the World

 There are two specific reasons for God’s judgment: “I will also gather all nations …into the valley of Jehoshaphat [between Jerusalem and the Mount of Olives, where God miraculously destroyed invading nations without Israel lifting a finger (2nd Chronicles 21:10-25)], and will plead with [punish] them there for my people and for my heritage Israel whom they have [1] scattered among the nations, and [2] parted my land” (Joel 3:2).

19.) C.) Quora -- How did the Romans disperse the Jews after Titus victory and the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. -- Map

 Of course, all nations have participated in persecuting and scattering the Jews from country to country for 2,500 years. The second reason for God’s judgment falling on all nations, however, is something that has only occurred within our generation:

19.) I.) E-International Relations -- The United Nations building in New York City, New York

 “They have…parted [divided] my land.”

 Israel has been overrun by invaders many times–but never did any conqueror divide the land.  The victor does not share its spoils with others.  Since World War I, however, all nations have joined to divide the land of Israel.

20.) F.) These Bones Shall Live PowerPoint

 The 1917 Balfour Declaration, the 1919 Paris Peace Conference, and the 1922 Declaration of Principles by the League of Nations all recognized that the land that had become known as “Palestine” (since the Romans renamed Israel in A.D. 135) belonged to the Jews. It was set aside to become the national homeland of the Jewish people “internationally guaranteed, and… formally recognized to rest upon the ancient historic connection.” Of course, history ties Israel to all of “Palestine.”

21.) A.) The Israel Forever Foundation -- Legal Rights and Title of Sovereignty of the Jewish people to the Land of Israel and Palestine

 Britain was given the mandate to see that the Jews were safely settled there.  The discovery of huge reservoirs of oil under Arab lands caused Britain to keep Jewish inhabitants out and let in tens of thousands of Arabs. Just when millions of Jews desperately needed a haven to which they could flee from Nazi Germany, Britain’s 1939 White Paper limited Jewish immigrants to 10,000 per year for a maximum of five years, plus an additional 25,000 “refugees” during that period, then the door to Palestine would be shut entirely to the Jews.  Since the Nazis had marked for extinction 11 million Jews in Europe Jews in Europe, the quota of 25,000 defied God and conscience.

22.) A.) The Holocaust  22.) B.) The National WWII Museum -- New Orleans -- The Holocaust

  A year earlier, President Roosevelt had gathered delegates from 32 countries to Evian, France, to discuss the worsening plight of the Jews.  Roosevelt made it clear that the United States would do nothing.  Britain said there was no room in Palestine and it was not to be discussed.  Professing their great sympathy for Europe’s Jews whom everyone knew to be exterminated, the nations offered various excuses why they could do nothing to intervene.

24.) A.) The New York Times -- Hitler and the Holocaust

 Hitler shrewdly declared, “We…are to put all these criminals at the disposal of these countries…even on luxury ships.”  When the conference ended with the Jews completely abandoned, Hitler mocked the participants: “It was recently regarded as wholly incomprehensible why Germany did not wish to preserve in its population…the Jews…[yet these] countries seem in no way anxious to [receive them] now that the opportunity offers.”

25.) A.) Cambridge University Press & Assessment -- World War II (Part II) -- The Cambridge World History of Genocide

 The entire world was Hitler’s partner in destroying the Jews!

 In 1944, Hitler offered to sell to the Allies 500,000 Hungarian Jews for $2 each, and no one would take them!  England said there was “no room” in Palestine for them!  In 1943, Britain and America had agreed to say and do nothing about the Holocaust, fearful that if pressed, Hitler would dump the Jews on his critics.  The Allies steadfastly refused the repeated urgent appeals from Jewish organizations to bomb the rail lines going in and out of the extermination camps.  God will judge all nations!

26.) C.) Wikipedia -- British Empire in World WarII -- Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen water color picture   26.) D.) Britannica -- British Empire -- History, Countries, Map, Size & Facts   26.) E.) Quora -- The British Empire in the 1920's Map -- Why did the British Empire decline so quickly after WW2

 After the war, a trickle of emaciated survivors of Hitler’s death machines sought ot reach “Palestine” in half-sinking ships.  Some who got within sight of the land God had given to them as an everlasting inheritance (1st Chronicles 16:15-18) were driven back by the British navy and put into internment camps on Cyprus.  Many who did manage to find shelter within what would become the new Jewish State of Israel were rounded up by the British and removed to those camps.  Britain created Jordan out of most of Promised Land. The demise of British Empire upon which “the sun never sank,” can be counted from the time Britain betrayed the Jews, one more fulfilment of the prophecy, “I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee…” (Genesis 12:3).

27.) D.) m.knesset.gov.il -- November 29, 1947 (Kaf Tet B'November) -- Best picture for 27.) and Map of Israel on November 29, 1947

 When the UN finally voted to partition Palestine on November 29, 1947 (UN Resolution 181), God’s “chosen people” received about 13 percent of the land that had once belonged to them!  Thus, Joel’s prophecy remaining to be fulfilled is the judgment on the nations for having “parted” God’s land: “The land shall not be sold [partitioned] forever; for the land is mine” (Leviticus 25:23).

10.) I.) Amos 9 verse 15 -- I will plant Israel in Their Own Land -- Never Again to be Uprooted From The Land I Have Given Them   17.) A.) Tov Rose -- The only country in the world That bears the same name, Speaks the same language,

 God’s anger is growing hotter against the nations of this world for robbing Israel of what He gave to her.  Yet in continued defiance of God, every peace proposal that the West has imposed upon Israel has involved further dividing of God’s land.  President Bush, a professing Christian, originated the so-called “road map to peace,” which calls for a further division of the land of Israel.

29.) A.) Quora -- Has Israel ever given up land for peace 

 On her part, has been willing to give away more and more land in exchange for promises of “peace” from the PLO in spite of the fact that its charter calls for the destruction of Israel and that its maps and those of the entire Arab world do not even acknowledge Israel’s existence.  The fact that Israel has been forced to do so by the West is no excuse.  For this she will be punished severly in what is called “the time of Jacob’s trouble” (Jeremiah 30:7).  Yes, God will deliver her, but only after two-thirds of all Jews on earth have been killed (Zechariah 13:8, 9).

30.) A.) Bible Hub -- Zachariah 12 verse 9 --So on that day i will set out to destroy al the nations that come against Jerusalem

 There is no more appropriate place and way to destroy the nations that have abused Israel than when they, in the spirit of Satan, come to effect once and for all what Hitler called the “final solution to the Jewish problem.”  Believers are to meet together to encourage and exhort one another from Scripture, “so much the more, as ye see the day [of judgment] approaching” (Hebrews 10:25).  Fulfilled prophecies are heralding that day as never before.

31.) F.) Christian Facebook Fellowship -- 1st Peter 1 verse 15 -- Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts and be ready always

Printed with permission of Today, The Bible & You located at P.O. Box 1722, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74013, Phone No. (918) 279-1136.  The name of the original article in the December 2023 issue of Today’s Front Page was “Judgment Day Approaching — Israel: The Cup of Trembling” www.JohnBarela.com. 

 

Will the Dome of the Rock Mosque on the Temple Mount Soon be Destroyed?

On By learnbiblicalIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Today, The Bible & You

Today’s Front Page

The Nation’s Christian Newspaper

December 2023

Will the Dome of the Rock Mosque

on the Temple Mount Soon be Destroyed?

Is it time for the Third Temple to be built?

 Prophesy is at Hand!

1.) A.) DreamsTime -- Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem, Israel

If they do, it will fulfill the Biblical prophecy in Matthew 24:15….“When ye therefore shall see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ [Anti-Christ] spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place [Jewish Temple]…”

  (In other words, the Jewish Temple MUST be built for it to be desecrated.)

2.) D.) Temple Institute -- The Temple Mount -- Temple Institute

 The word, “holy place,” used in this Scripture above, is referencing the New Jewish Temple that will be rebuilt in Jerusalem in the near future.  Today there is an institution that is devoted specifically to this cause, it is called, “The Temple Institute.”  On my many visits to Israel, we have visited this Institute several times. They were founded in 1987 and are currently planning and developing the construction of the New Temple, which they claim that everything is ready and prepared.  All they need is the go-ahead.

3.) A.) Free Grace International -- A New Temple in Jerusalem -- Bringing The Holy Temple to Life Every Day

 In fact, the Temple Institute has currently restored over 60 different sacred temple vessels including the Priest’s breastplate, the crown of the priest, the shofar, musical instruments, the laver, the  mizrak, and more.  Even some of the most important vessels: the Menorah, the Incense Alter, the Golden Table of Showbread, and a mock-up of the “Ark of the Covenant.”

  It is only a matter of time before this Temple gets built and fulfills the prophecy in Matthew!  Be Ready!  If a major earthquake destroys the Al-Aqsa Mosque, what should happen to the holy site?

4.) A.) NBC News -- Jerusalem's Old City at risk in Earthquake

 NBC, in 2004, predicted that a major earthquake would hit the old city before 2054: https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna3980139

5.) A.) The Jerusalem Post -- When a major earthquake rippled through Jerusalem -- Israel News

 Given that the infrastructure is old and crumbling due to excavations underneath the mosque, it is conceivable that the entire structure, if not the entire Mount, could collapse.  The last major earthquake was in 1927 and caused extensive but reparable damage, next time that may not be the case.  Such a collapse would be viewed with religious fervor by Jews and Christians as a possible sign of the arrival of the Messiah.

6.) D.) Israel's Prophesied Annihilation of the Palestinians by David Bay

We have a DVD, “Israel’s Prophesied Annihilation of the Palestinians” that tells the following possibility regarding the possible fulfillment of clearing Mt. Moriah to build the third Temple.  Obadiah 15-18 — Set in End Times because verse 15 begins with the prophetic words, “For the Day of the Lord …”.  God consistently uses these words to denote the End of the Age prophecies, and this is time is no exception.

6.) C.) The Times of Israel -- Abbas succession batttle could collapse Palestinian Authority, think tank says

 “For the Day of the Lord is near upon all the nations.  As you have done, it shall be done to you; your dealings will return upon your own head.  For as you have drunk upon the mountain of My holiness [desecrating it in the wild revelry of the destroyers] so shall all the nations drink continually [in turn, of My wrath]; yes, they shall drink, talk foolishly, and swallow down [the full measure of punishment] and they shall be [destroyed] as though they had not been.” [Verses 15-16]

 “But on Mount Zion [in Jerusalem] there shall be deliverance [for those who escape], and it shall be holy, and the house of Jacob shall possess its [own former] possessions.  The house of Jacob shall be a fire, and the house of Joseph a flame, but the house Esau shall be stubble; they shall kindle and burn them and consume them, and there shall be no survivor of the house of Esau, for the Lord has spoken it.” [Verses 17-18; Emphasis added].

7.) A.) Reddit -- Greater Israel -- The land Jews were promised in the Bible and the Torah

 The remaining three verses [19-21] tell in great detail how completely Israel will expand out to possess the land God had promised to Israel.  This land includes Lebanon, part of Syria, two-thirds of Jordan [Moab and Edom provinces], and the Negev Desert.  When Israel expands her borders following this war with the Palestinians, Egyptians, and Jordanians, she will not only win but will send her armed forces out to occupy all the land God had promised them.

8.) A.) But on Mount Zion there will be deliverance, and the house of Jacob will reclaim their possession -- A colorful Sunset picture and Scripture

 But God will also bring about the purification of Mount Zion through this war.  Notice in verse 17 that God says: “But on Mount Zion [in Jerusalem] there shall be deliverance [for those who escape], and it shall be holy.”  The only way that Mount Zion [the Temple Mount] could be made holy in God’s sight is for the Muslim Dome of the Rock to be removed!

 This is a very interesting concept, because the New World Order Plan to produce Antichrist calls for just such a destruction of the Dome of the Rock.

 Since the most important pagan edifice on Mount Zion [Temple Mount] is the Muslim Dome of the Rock, then the question immediately coming to mind is, “Could the Arabs be planning to blow up the Dome and blame the Jews, to instantly unite all one billion Muslims in the world, in a Holy War against Israel?”  When I read this CNN report, I immediately reached back to my bookcase to pull down the most important New World Order book that details how the Antichrist is going to deceive the world.  In a matter of seconds, I had located the place in which the Dome of the Rock is mentioned.

9.) A.) Robert Clifton Robinson -- On the Foal of a Donkey is your Messiah

 Note: “If the Messiah is to appear, then he must be produced.  And producing the Messiah … is just as much a function of humanity as of Divinity … There are doubtless many Jews … who will be willing to regard him as their long-awaited Messiah.  Some Muslims may take a similar view … it may be possible for the New David to ride into Jerusalem in all resplendent majesty.  Note the word ‘ride’ … on a donkey as predicted in Zechariah 9:9 … it would seem advisable for the new Messiah to repeat it, donkey and all … The processional route will, of course, lie directly across the Kidron ravine, as close as possible to the Temple Mount … he must be duly enthroned and anointed with oil (in token of Psalm 45:5-7) amid the rubble of the Dome of the Rock …” [The Armageddon Script, page 233-335]

10.) A.) Yahweh's Restoration Ministry -- The Lost Temple Mount illustration

  Antichrist will receive the recognition of being the Jewish Messiah as he is standing “amid the rubble of the Dome of the Rock!”  Most interestingly, our search amongst the proganda of the Palestinians and Hamas [the terrorist organization supporting Arafat], turned up an unbelievable fact: Palestinian propagandists are already preparing their people for rhe blowing up of the Dome of the Rock!  Time and time again, militant Palestinian organizations have warned that Israel is planning to blow up their beloved Aqsa (Dome of the Rock).

 Therefore, the deed is not only prophesied in Obadiah, but it is now verified twice from Palestinians sources — Arafat on CNN on September 7, 2000, and now by the Palestinian propagandists.  The Arabs will be God’s human agent by which God will fulfill His prophecy in Obadiah 17, that “On Mount Zion, there shall be deliverance … and it shall be holy“.  The Arabs do not realize they are going to purge Mount Zion of the pagan Dome to make it holy; they think they are doing it because such an act would instantly unite all one billion Muslims in the world into such a frenzy that Israel cannot possibly survive the ensuring furious onslaught.

11.) A,) Studying Bible Prophecy -- WordPress.com Progress of The Third Temple -- Part One   31.) B.) Kehila News, Israel -- The Millennial Temple -- Literal or Allegorial (Part 4 of 4)

ISRAEL’S FUTURE THIRD

AND FOURTH TEMPLES

The Old Testament devotes considerable attention to describing the portable tent, or tabernacle, of the Jewish people built under the leadership of Moses.  After the conquest of Canaan, the tabernacle and its contents remained at Shiloh throughout the time of Judges.  After Shiloh was destroyed (about 1050 BC), the Ark traveled through various Philistine cities and finally was brought to David’s palace south of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, and then into the holy of holies of the First Temple dedicated by Solomon about 952 BC.

13.) B.) Templar Cross -- The Solomon's Temple -- First Temple of Jerusalem illustration

 The First Temple geometrically resembled the Tabernacle through it was twice as large and built of immense quantities of stone, cedar wood, and lined with gold. [See Exodus 25-31; Exodus 35-40, Numbers 3:25 ff, Numbers 4: ff, also Philo (2nd Mos. 91) and Josephus (Ant. 3:122 ff).  Moses built everything according to a pattern revealed to him on Mt. Sinai, Hebrews 8:5.]

 After the First Temple was completed (1st Kings 5-8), the Tabernacle of Moses was dismantled.  It may have been stored in a room under the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.  There is some evidence that it may still lie there to this day.

14.) A.) HistoryVille -- How King Nebuchadnezzar Destroyed Jerusalem in 587 B.C. illustration

 Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Jerusalem and the First Temple on the 9th of Av 586 BC, the Jews were then taken captive to Babylon and the city had no center of worship until Zerubbabel and the returning exiles built the Second Temple, completing it in 516 BC.

15.) C.) SlideShare -- Facts on the Second Temple -- Haggai the 10th prophet PowerPoint

 The Second Temple, modest in comparison with its predecessor, was rebuilt and enlarged by Herod the Great beginning in 20 BC, Herod recruited 10,000 workmen and set them to the task commencing in the 17th year of this reign.   Josephus gives vivid descriptions of the Second Temple and its environs and also records the terrible destruction by the Roman general Titus in 70 AD.

16.) C.) Quora -- Remodel of Herod the Great's Second Temple and surrounding City of Jerusalem illustration

 1st Kings 6 ff, 1st Chronicles 22 ff. 3, Ezra, Nehemiah and Haggai describe the rebuilding of the temple after the Babylonian captivity.  This is the so-called “Second Temple” which Herod the Great later greatly enlarged.  Jesus was dedicated in the Second Temple, He cast out money changers there on two occasions, and He taught frequently in the temple courts.

17.) A.) The Spirit of Truth -- Jesus told His Disciples that Jerusalem and the Second Temple would be Destroyed illustration

 During the 70-year captivity of the Jews in Babylon and again in the diaspora, just ending in the last century, the Jewish people have centered their worship of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in synagogues around the world.  Since the terrible destruction of the Second Temple by the Romans in AD 70, temple sacrifices, offerings, instruction, and worship have ceased in accordance with an Old Testament prophecy of Hosea (about 746 BC):

 “For the children of Israel shall abide many days without king or prince, without sacrifice or sacred pillar, without ephod or teraphim.  Afterward, the children of Israel shall return and seek the LORD their God, and David their king; and they shall come in fear to the LORD and to his goodness in the latter days.” (Hosea 3:4, 5)

18.) F.) Amazon.com -- When The Third Temple is Built The Rapture Play Will Begin

 The regathering of the Jewish people to their homeland in our time (as predicted in Ezekiel 37) is being accompanied by a rapidly accelerating religious consciousness in Israel, the awakening of ancient longings and aspirations, and the rediscovery of many immutable promises God has made to the chosen seed of Abraham.  The fact that a Third Temple is to be built can be shown from the Tanach.  But three passages in the New Testament also refer to such a building not now in existence as of this writing in 1996 AD.  Many Christians have thus speculated in recent years about when the Third Temple would be built.  This is considered by many to be an important milestone pointing to the end of the age.  Plus, since the Third Temple will be used by the Antichrist to declare he is God, those followers of the new world order are in full agreement with this plan.

            19.) C.) The Israel Forever Foundation -- Six-Day War -- 67_borders_peace  19.) B.) The Meaningful Life Center -- 50th Anniversary of the Six-Day War -- It's Impact Today

 The entire Temple Mount contains cisterns and passages most of which have been inaccessible since 70 AD.  The Temple Mount proper was liberated from Jordanian control in the Six-Day War of 1967 but then returned by Israel to the custody of the Muslim Waqf (Jordan).  The site is some 34 acres in extent with the prominent “Dome of the Rock” near the center and Al Aqsa mosque at the South end.  Jews pray night and day at the Western Wall which is below the Temple Mount, along a section of the great retaining wall of the Mount, in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City.  The Western Wall is as close as Jews can get these days to the site of their ancient temples.

Dr. Asher Kaufman of Keough School of Global Affairs

 Dr. Asher Kaufman formerly of the Racah Institute of Physics, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, for many years made careful studies on Mount Moriah leading him to believe the Temples of Solomon and Zerubbabel were both located just north of the Dome of the Rock on the paved platform area.  The Holy of Holies is believed to have been approximately on the bedrock covered by a small shrine, the Dome of the Spirits.  The Muslim stewards of the site have systematically destroyed or covered over all evidence that the site was once important to the Jews or Christians.

21.) A.) Archaeology and Jerusalem with Dr. Dan Bahat

 Others, including Dan Bahat the Dean of Jerusalem archaeologists today, have argued persuasively that the First and Second Temples were most certainly located where the present Dome of the Rock shrine now stands.  A third view is that of Architect Tuvia Sagiv who presents striking evidence that the Temple locaton was South of the Dome of the Rock, but North of Al Aqsa Mosque, under the present Muslim El Kas fountain.

22.) A.) You Tube -- Dialogue at the Temple Mount with Architect Tuvia Sagiv

 The Temple Mount area is also the location of the birth of the Christian church at the feast of Pentecost which followed seven sabbaths plus one day after the death of Messiah.  Neither Christians nor Jews are presently allowed to pray or worship on the site despite its historic importance to all of Abraham’s children.

23.) A.) Flickr -- Peter Paul Rubens -- The Meeting of Abraham and Melchizedek

 To go back even further in time the Temple Mount has great historical importance to the Jews.  Abraham met a priest of the true God named Melchidezek at Mount Moriah about 4000 years ago (Genesis 14, Hebrews 5-7).  A few years later, Abraham offered his son as a sacrifice there (Genesis 22), and King David purchased the site from a local resident named Ornan (1st Chronicles 21), in about 1015 BC.

 Muslim claims to the Temple Mount date only from 638 AD.  The Crusaders turned the Muslim buidlings of the Mount into churches in 1099 until Saladin restored the Arab rule of Jerusalem in 1187 AD.

34.) B.) Reddit -- Paul's Speech on Mar's Hill in Athens -- A Bridge Between Faith and Philosophy illustration

 The New Testament makes only brief references to temples, in fact, the Apostle Paul speaking to a crowd in Athens from Mars HIll said:

 “The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of Heaven and Earth, does not live in shrines made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all men life, and breadth, and everything…” (Acts 17:24-25).

24.) G.) Knowing Jesus -- 82 Bible versese about Faith -- So Faith Comes from Hearing and Hearing by the Word of Christ

 Instead, the emphasis of the New Covenant is the personal presence of Jesus as Messiah, Immanuel (which means “God with us”) dwelling within and in the midst of his people whenever and wherever they gather in his name.

25.) A.) Knowing Jesus -- The Disciples were first called Christians in Antioch -- Acts 11 verse 26

 The New Testament opens with the four-gospel revelation of God’s Son, Jesus.  John in his gospel says that God in Christ “tabernacled” among men.  Later in the First Century, both Paul and Peter call the true church “living temple.” Individual believers are “living stones” and Christ is Himself the foundation stone or the “chief cornerstone.”   For two thousand years of Biblical history the emphasis has been on assemblies or congregations of Christians or Jews, not on sacred buildings.

26.) B.) You Tube -- The Third Temple Coming Soon!

 Yet there are at least three references in the New Testament to a temple building existing in Jerusalem in the future.  From the context, these references appear to refer to a new, or “Third Temple” yet to be built in the city. There has been growing interest since the rebirth of Israel in 1948 among the Jews for a central  place of worship in their capital city.  Although synagogues have served admirably as centers of worship and community for the Jews in their dispersion, a temple in Jerusalem on the exact site of the Second Temple is required by the Jews as a central house of prayer and focal point of the faith until Messiah comes.

 Our Lord Jesus spoke of the Third Temple building in Jerusalem when discussing with His disciples the chain of events that would bring the close of the present age and His return.  He spoke of an event yet future predicted by Daniel the prophet when the temple in Jerusalem would suffer ultimate defilement by a false Messiah who claimed to be God:

27.) B.) The Messianic Prophecy Bible Project -- A man representing the Antichrist standing at a balcony looking out

 “When you therefore shall see the abomination of desolation spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place (whoso readeth, let him understand), Let them which be in Judea flee to the mountains; let him which is on the housetop not come down to take anything out of his house; Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes.  And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!  Pray that your flight be not in winter or on a sabbath.  For then there shall be great tribulation, such as was since the beginning of the world to this time, no, and nor ever shall be.” (Matthew 24:15-21)

26.) C.) Israel Today -- Third Temple Preparation are in Full Swing

 Since only properly consecrated temple can be defiled, this passage implies a functioning, dedicated Third Temple and priesthood in existence in the end time at the time Jesus said He would return.  The apostle Paul, writing a few years later, describes this same event:

27.) E.) Compelling Truth -- What Is The Meaning of The Abomination of Desolation

 “Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and by our gathering together unto Him, That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the Day of the Lord is at hand.  Let no one deceive you by any means; for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition, who opposes and exalts himself against all that is called god, showing himself that he is God.,” (2nd Thessalonians 2:1-4).

  Emmanuel Macron has Roman Ancestry  28.) A.) Carl Joseph Ministries -- Antiochus IV Epiphanes -- Daniel Chapter 8

 The coming false Jewish messiah, resembling his predecessor Antiochus Epiphanes (~175 BC), is the “worthless shepherd” spoken of by the prophet Zechariah — and the man Jesus spoke of when he said to the Jews, “I have come in my Father’s name and you would not receive me.  Another will come in his own name, him you will receive.” (John 5:43) (See also Daniel 9:27, Revelation 13:18).

29.) A.) Spiritual Meditations -- John the Apostle of Love

 Finally, the existence of the Third Temple in Jerusalem at the close of the age is confirmed by the aged apostle John when he recorded the Book of the Revelation:

 “And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein.  But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.” (Revelation 11:1-2).

30.) A.) Facebook -- New Jerusalem Worship Temple and Scripture

 In contrast to the earthly city the Book of Revelation, the last book of the New Testament, describes the heavenly city of New Jerusalem, descending from space, as a city that contains no temple at all:

 “And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.  And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.” (Revelation 21:22, 23).

31.) C.) Kehila News, Israel -- The Millennial Temple -- Literal or Allegorical (Part 1 of 4) -- 3D view of a model from above  31.) B.) Kehila News, Israel -- The Millennial Temple -- Literal or Allegorial (Part 4 of 4)

 There may yet be a fourth Temple bullt in Israel.  The prophet Zechariah (c. 550 BC) says that Messiah, whom he calls the “Branch” will yet build a temple in Israel, that would be during the Millennium.

31.) F.) From the Heart of A Shepherd by Pastor Travis D. Smith -- The Temple of the Millennial Kingdom (Ezekiel 40)

 Since all orthodox born again believers hold to a literal, physical return of our Lord Jesus, the construction of the Fourth Temple, would be the responsibility of their Lord, Yeshua Hamashiach.  This temple may well be that seen by Ezekiel (ca. 570 BC) in a vision.  A temple that matches his description has never yet been built.

32.) B.) Jesus ~ Amazing Grace -- Are You Ready to go Home with Jesus -- Any Day Now -- At the Trump of God

  Time to keep looking up.

Printed with permission of Today, The Bible & You located at P.O. Box 1722, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74013, Phone No. (918) 279-1136.  The name of the original article in the December 2023 issue of Today’s Front Page was “Will the Dome of the Rock Mosque on the Temple Mount Soon be Destroyed?” www.JohnBarela.com

The Gathering of the Bride of the Antichrist

On By learnbiblicalIn The Bride of Antichrist, Mystery BabylonLeave a comment

Today, The Bible & You

Today’s Front Page

The Nation’s Christian Newspaper

September 2023

The Gathering of the Bride of the Antichrist

Carl Joseph Ministries -- What is Mystery Babylon -- The Woman Riding the Beast of Revelation 17 - 18 -- The Catholic Church

  “And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him though he bear long with them?  I tell you that he will avenge them speedily.  Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?” — Luke 18:7-8

  What will “the religious Bride of Antichrist” look like at the end of the age?  Well if it’s anything like it is today, it’s going to be weird.  Today we have:

  • False preachers teaching health, wealth, and prosperity.
  • Fringe evangelicals calling everything “signs”: from dreams, laughing in the Lord, going into trances, words of wisdom, lying signs and wonders, and new “divine” revelations.
  • The occult and new age movement exploding.
  • Our “Father in Heaven” is being replaced with Our “Mother Earth”.
  • Everybody’s predicting the future and everybody’s getting it wrong.
  • Churches are getting squishy about teaching the Scriptures.
  • Mormonism and polygamy are all over the news.
  • The Church is either regarded as a joke, a threat or as some bland, feel-good, do-good, antiquated institution that is past it’s prime.
  • Precept Austin -- Thomas Chalmers (1780 -- 1847) -- The Love of God And The Love of The World Are Two Affections Not Merely in a State o

 The Greatest Story Never Told: Modern Christian Martyrdom.  While Christians in the secular West languish in spiritual mediocrity, Christianity remains a deadly serious matter almost everywhere else, as we have reported from our Christian brethren in Manipur, India where thousands have been killed, women raped then paraded naked through the streets, and homes and churches burned to the ground.

Alamy -- Foxe's Christian martyrs of the world

  Masih was a simple street cleaner.  One day, while cleaning a garden in Lahore, the twenty-seven-year-old Pakistani Catholic was accused of deliberately piling garbage against the wall of a mosque.  He was arrested and thrown in jail, where he was repeatedly tortured for his faith.  While in prison, a police constable decided to earn a place in Janna (paradise) by killing him with a brick-cutting hammer.

National Education Association -- Teaching About Religion -- NEA

 Thousands of miles away, on a beautiful mid-August day, thirty-two-year-old, Jesus Adrain Sanchez was giving religious instructions at a school in the rural area of Chaparral (Tolima), Columbia.  An armed man burst into the classroom, ordered him outside, and shot him dead.

The Nature Conservancy -- Restore the Amazon -- Small Farmers Are Key

  Deep in the Brazilian rainforest, a seventy-three-year-old Dorothy Stang, was used to living among people  who wanted her dead.  She had long been trying to protect peasant laborers from exploitation by logging firms and ranchers.  One day, while walking to a meeting of poor farmers near the town of Anapu in the western Brazilian state of Para, two armed men intercepted her on the path.  She knew what they were there to do.  Taking out her Bible, she began reading to them and, for a precious few minutes, they listened before opening fire.  Dorothy Slang was shot six times in the head, throat, and body.

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts -- Benjamin West, Christ Rejeted (1814)

  These are only three of the more than 100 who bear the unique distinction of being the first martyrs of the twenty-first century.  Dying for Christ seems almost surreal to most Westerners.  We live in a part of the world where Christianity rarely makes the news unless it is to be mocked or defamed.  Otherwise, the media is strangely silent about modern Christian martyrdom.

 The Bloodiest Century: The secular West has been looking the other way for a very long time.  Even the average church-going Christian is not likely to know that 45.5 million of the estimated 70 million Christians who have died for Christ did so in the last century. 

Lamb and Lion Ministries -- The One World Religion -- Prophetic Signs

  So, will “the Church” during the end of days be any different?  Sadly, it will be worse.

The One World Religion of Chrislam -- Opening in 2022

 The One World Religion during the end times apocalypse will seem to believe in everything from the paranormal to visions and psychic healing, to killing Bible-believing Christians thinking they are doing good.  Satan will run roughshod over the earth’s religions. They will believe in nothing that comes from historic Christianity.  The new Lord’s Prayer will be:

 “Our nada who are in nada, nada be thy name thy kingdom nada thy will be nada as it is in nada. Give us this nada our daily nada and nada us our nada as we nada our nadas and nada us not into nada but deliver us from nada; pues nada, hail nothing full of nothing, nothing is with thee.” — Ernest Hemingway, from a Clean Well-Lighted Place (1). 

Jesus is Truth -- Whore of Babylon -- Picture of Roman Catholic Cardinals in Red Garb at the Catholic Mass

The One World Religion of the end is

Described in the Bible like this:

“And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will show unto you the judgment of the great whore that sits upon many waters:” — Revelation 17:1

 If you want to figure out how so many religions will come together under one-world religion, here are some questions that you need to answer.

Facebook -- The Whore of Babylon -- And the Woman Was Arrayed in Purple and Scarlet Colour and Decked with Gold and Precious Stones

1.) What will the false religion, Mystery Babylon; the great Whore, look like?  Will all churches fall under the authority of the Antichrist?

Logos Sermons -- Faithlife -- The Harlot Babylon the Great

2.) How will the Roman religion fit into the false religious system?  Will the Pope be the Pope of the Bride of Antichrist?

Advent Truth -- Church of Christ or Bride of Antichrist -- You decide

3.) Will denominations who do not abide by the Holy Scriptures be found in this false religion?

Vegan Feminist Network -- Should We Retire Mother Earth

4.) Will the Green movement play a part?  Can we expect the worship of the Gaia Mother Earth to flourish in the end?

Facebook -- CBS News -- The late Stephen Hawking quoted -- We are each free to beleive what we want...

5.) What about Atheism?  Will they join the One World Religion just because they are glad to get rid of those #@!%Christians?

YouTube -- History -- Ancient Mysteries -- Dark History of Witches (S4, E5)

6.) How do religious cults and the occult world of witches and esoteric religions contribute to the Antichrist Bride at the end of days?  How will so much weirdness come together?

You Tube -- Unraveling Revelation -- Islam and Mystery Babylon

7.) Does Islam have a role as part of this Bride?  Will they be the strong arm behind the World Religious movement?

Enjoying Christ -- Revelation 18 verse 4 -- Come out of her my people, that you do not receive her plagues

8.) And finally, What will Antichrist Bride look like?  And will it survive?

Tommorrow's World --Ecumenism and End-Time Prophecy

    Ecumenical Religious Unity —

A Plan of the Devil

  We are living in a day of ecumenical propaganda calling on the churches and religious systems of the world to amalgamate.  Church unity is moving at a breathtaking pace at the expense of the Scriptures.  This is the falling away from the God of the Bible that the Scriptures predicted would happen at the end of the age when the false prophet comes and performs the marriage to Antichrist.

A Baptist Minister at a Catholic Church performing a marriage ceremony

 A Baptist minister participated with a Catholic priest in a marriage ceremony, and a Catholic priest participated in the ordination of a Baptist minister, after which he was quoted as saying, “It was a rich and meaningful experience.”

Religions for Peace Europe -- World Council of Churches Assembly -- Religions for Peace calls for more interreligious cooperation

  As we approach the end of the Church Age, we can expect to see liberal Protestantism, in the form of the National Council of Churches, the World Council of Churches, Islam, and all the religions of the world being swallowed up by the religious system of Rome.  This unity movement should not, however, be limited to apostate Christianity, as it will incorporate all the religions of the world.

Neo-Historicism -- The Roman Church in The Image of The Great Harlot That Sitteth Upon Many Waters

  We can expect to see it move toward amalgamating all the religions of the world under Rome’s headship because our text states that the religious system at the end time will be a one-world religion: “Where the whore sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations and tongues” (Revelation 17:15).  This can only mean a one world religious system.

Symma apologic -- WordPress.com -- Is the Holy Catholic Church The Whore of Babylon

  Ultimately the Antichrist and his followers will kill the religious harlot:  The Bible tells us in Revelation 17:3 that she sits on a “scarlet beast”, the same beast identified in Revelation 13 as the Antichrist.  And he adds this in Revelation 17:16, “And the ten horns which you saw upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh and burn her with fire.”  The devil hates all religious systems, even the false ones!

Tomorrow's World -- The Coming False Prophet -- He Will Deceive Billions

  What kind of religious system can we expect under the harlot Bride?  What powerful secrets will she hold that permit her to bring together Atheists, Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus, and cultural (but unbelieving) Christians?  Most interpreters of the Protestant reformers who believed that the Pope would be the Antichrist and the Roman Catholic religion the whore of Babylon.  A Pope will be the False Prophet of Revelation 13.

Quora -- What was St. Malachy's prophecies -- The Prophecies of St. Malachy Stain Glass Window

The Prophecy of St. Malachy:

 “When the cardinals of the world pick John Paul II’s successor, they may well be choosing the next-to-last pope.  The pope who then follows this choice in the Chair of St. Peter will be the last pope, and after his reign, Rome will be destroyed.  Such has been the prophecy of St. Malachy, an Irish bishop who at his death in 1148 A.D. was discovered to have left behind a prophetic list of all future popes beginning with Pope Celestine II, whose papacy began in 1143 A.D.”

Find a Grave -- Pope Celestine II (1085 -- 1144) Find a Grave Memorial

 “Malachy included a single line in Latin identifying a characteristic of each pope.  Historians say Malachy’s prediction — wherein he listed just 112 popes — has been amazingly accurate.”

Assumption University - - Feast Day of Pope Saint John Paul II, October 22

 “John Paul II.  The 110th is ‘De Labore Solis’ (Of the Solar Eclipse, or From the Toil of the Sun) … John Paul II was born on May 18, 1920, during an eclipse of the sun.  Like the sun, he came out of the East (Poland).  Like the sun, he visited countries all around the globe.”

Academic Accelerator --Solar Eclipse -- Most Up-to-Date Encyclopedia

  On May 18, 1920, John Paul II (Karol Jozef Wojtyla) was born on a day when a relatively rare Annular Total Eclipse occurs.  This pope was the ultimate Sun God in every way!  Further, no one ever thought that the reason this pope visited so many countries around the world, unlike any predecessor, is because he was acting out his role as the “De Labore Solis”!  Nor that the reason the cardinals chose a Polish cardinal as pope was because that country was considered “out of the East”!

SlidePlayer -- Pope John Paul II -- Early LIfe

  John Paul II was the ultimate Roman Catholic Sun God!  Even though each Pontiff follows the Zoroastrian Tradition Sun God, John Paul II was the penultimate Sun God, just as we stated, above.

OSV News -- Pope Benedict XVI -- A committed but principled ecumenist

  On April 19, the first day of the Black Magick annual celebration known as the Blood Sacrifice to the Beast and the Catholic Cardinals elected their next pope!  He was Cardinal Ratzinger, who took the name, Benedict XVI.  Taking the name, “Benedict” seemingly “fulfills” the prophecy of St. Malachy, which stipulates that this 111th pope in the prophecy will be known as “Gloria Olivae” — The Glory of the Olive.

www.astrology.co.uk -- Did an Irish mystic fortell the fate of the Papacy nine centuries ago -- Pope Benedict XVI

  As we noted, above, The Order of Saint Benedict has long claimed that this pope will come from its ranks. Also noted was that Saint Benedict “prophesied that before the end of the world his Order, known also as the Olivetans, will triumphantly lead the Catholic religion in its final fight against evil.”

SlidePLayer -- Pope Benedict XVI -- A Celebration of his Life and Values

 Thus, the German Cardinal Ratzinger has now been elected Pope and has taken the name “Benedict XVI”.  Catholic adherents will now claim that the prophecy of St. Malachy is now fulfilled to include this pope. Occultists throughout the world will note two other factors: 

NPR -- Pope Francis and his Gift for Blending the Spiritual and the Political

  This designation seems to imply that the final pope– the actual False Prophet — might come from Rome, from the line of the Romans.  This possibility makes Biblical sense, for Antichrist himself is prophesied from coming out of a “Revived Roman Empire” (Daniel 9:26b).

You Tube --The Last Pope --St. Malachy's Prophecy -- Pope Francis I

 Therefore, it is consistent to think that the last pope might be a Roman, an Italian, with roots back to Imperial Rome.  Since the Roman Catholic religion has always falsely claimed that the Apostle Peter was their first pope, it seems logical that they would plan on their last pope being “Petrus Romanus”!  Listen to the explanation given in our first featured article above:

Marketwatch -- 14 Things to know about Pope Francis

 “Wrote St. Malachy of the last pope: ‘In extreme persecution, the seat of the Holy Roman Church will be occupied by Peter the Roman, who will feed the sheep through many tribulations, at the term of which the city of seven hills will be destroyed, and the formidable Judge will judge the people.  The End’.” [Ibid.]

 Does this pagan Catholic prophecy sound like this genuine prophetic Scripture?

 ” … the woman which reigns over the kings of the earth.” [Revelation 17:18] what “great city” is Jesus speaking of here?  We are told in another part of Revelation.

Carl Joseph Ministries -- What is Mystery Babylon -- Map showing Europe & Middle East (Migration of Mystery Babylon in Iraq to Present

 St. Malachy predicts what Jesus predicted in the Book of Revelation. Chapter 17.  The final pope — the False Prophet — who serves Antichrist so faithfully at the beginning of the 7-year Tribulation, is hated by Antichrist and his 10 political kings.  At the right moment, Antichrist will turn his political and military power against this final pope — this False Prophet — and utterly destroy her with fire.

Redbubble -- Vatican Burning Poster for Sale by Classictube

 Therefore, you can see that the prophecy of the Catholic priest, St. Malachy, conforms to the Biblical prophecy.  Thus, IF the St. Malachy prophecy comes true regarding this next pope, remember these facts, and do not get carried away with the masses of the undiscerning, who will react to fulfilled prophecy as a stamp of validation.

Facebook -- False Prophet -- The Revelation -- Revelation 13 verses 11-18

 If the St. Malachy prophecy holds true through this next pope and the final pope, does this means the world has only a short time left before the final pope — the False Prophet — fulfills his destiny?  Note the Biblical description of the False Prophet: 

SlidePlayer -- The Land Beast -- Revelation 13 verses 11 --18

 “Then I saw another beast rising up out of the land itself; he had two horns like a lamb …” [Revelation 13:11a; Parallel Bible, KJV/Amplified Bible Commentary].

WBAY -- Pope Franics endorses Civil Unions for same-sex couples

  Did you catch the pertinent phrase?  “he had two horns like a lamb” — in other words, he pretended to be a Christian, and he will be accepted as a Christian.  The last part of this prophecy is equally important:

Advent Messenger -- The United Religions -- Ganouine Diop calls his Critics Inquisitors, Promoters of Hate Speech and the Wrath of the D

 “… and he spoke (roared) like a dragon.” [Revelation 13:11b] 

  Rome roars like the pagan, Babylonian dragon she is.  This dual essence is truly the Roman Catholic Papacy, and she is now maneuvering into position so that her Pope will one day serve as the False Prophet, serving Antichrist.

Time -- Pope Francis and Emmanuel Macron Hug After Long Meeting

  The world is truly hurtling down the track toward the appearance of the Antichrist and his False Prophet. These perilous times are also a time when we can reach many who must be born again in our Lord Jesus Christ, turning to him alone for the forgiveness of sins.  God promises us in 1st John 1:7, 9, ” … the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin …  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Pastor Terry J. Davis -- Looking Forward to the Reign of Jesus Christ

Printed with permission of Today, The Bible & You located at P.O. Box 1722 Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74013, Phone No. (918) 279-1136. The name of the original article in the September 2023 issue of Today’s Front Page was “The Gathering of the Bride of the Antichrist” www.JohnBarela.com. 

Forgiveness — From God’s Eternal Perspective & Purpose

On By learnbiblicalIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Today, The Bible & You

Today’s Front Page

The Nation’s Christian Newspaper

July 2023

Forgiveness

From God’s Eternal Perspective & Purpose

 “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” — Ephesians 4:32

 Forgiveness is one of the pillars of faith throughout Scripture.  The first use of the word “forgive” or related concepts in the Bible is in Genesis chapter 50, where Joseph’s family ask for forgiveness for selling him into slavery.  We read in Genesis 50:15-21, “And when Joseph’s brethren saw that their father was dead, they said, Joseph will peradventure hate us, and will certainly requite us all the evil which we did unto him.  And they sent a messenger unto Joseph, saying Thy father did command before he died, saying, So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of thy father.  And Joseph wept when they spoke unto him.  And his brethren also went and fell down before his face; and they said, Behold, we be thy servants.”

Why Did Joseph Test His Brothers

 “And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God?  But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.  Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones.  And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.”

Abraham Pleaded for Mercy of Sodom & Gomorrah

 However, the concept is certainly earlier than that, for example in Genesis chapter 18 where Abraham asks God to spare the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah if ten righteous people are found there.  After all, who hasn’t heard of the command to “turn the other cheek?”  Forgiveness needs to be one of the main attributes in the life and character of anyone who has been born of the Spirit in Christ through whom, as we die to self, our Lord Jesus who lives in us will forgive them through us.  This is why we have been redeemed by our Lord Jesus so that He could continue living His life on this earth through us.

Tyndale House Publishers -- Forgiveness is Hard but a Hard Heart is Worse

 When our Lord Jesus taught about prayer, he repeated three times in three verses about our need to forgive others in Matthew 6:12-15:

 “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.  And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil:  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever.  Amen.”

 “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:  But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”  The word “forgive” appears six times in these three verses.

  There are THREE rules to grow in Christ Jesus in His Word.

1.) READ Scripture daily.

2.) INTERPRET and UNDERSTAND the Scripture your READ daily.

3.) APPLY the Word of God you understand.

 Forgiveness is the heart of the gospel and is a crucial factor in our growth in the intimate personal relationship God established with us when He washed our sins away in His blood and began living His life in and through us.

Slideplyer -- What Is Forgiveness -- Forgiveness is dimissing your demand that others owe you something PowerPoint Slide

WHAT IS TRUE FORGIVENESS?

 THE OPPOSITE OF REVENGE:  We need to talk about revenge because revenge is the opposite of forgiveness.  In the Sermon on the Mount, our Lord Jesus taught:

 “You have heard that it has been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:  But I say unto you, That you resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite you on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.” (Matthew 5:38-39)

Bible Study Tools -- What Does the Bible Says About Revenge -- Matthew 5 verses 38 and 39

 God teaches about forgiveness as contrast to revenge.  Seeking revenge means storing anger and bitterness inside, and it has two consequences:

Verywell Mind -- How Emotions and Organs are Connected according to TCM

 First not only does it hurt our relationships, it also has damaging implications on our health, because bitterness is something that eats us up from the inside.  According to the research of Dr. Loren Toussaint and Dr. Grant Shields, unforgiveness directly affects the immune system, blood pressure, and the physical health and well-being of the heart.

Quote Fancy -- Billy Graham Quote -- Revenge easily descends into an endless cycle of hate and violence -- The Bible says never repay evil with evil

 Second, revenge hurts others and leads to a never-ending cycle of revenge.  Forgiveness sets us free from the vicious cycle and can turn our sworn enemies into our greatest friends.

St. Marks Evangelical Lutherean -- Joseph sold into slavery by his brothers

  Understanding the purpose of forgiveness in Genesis 50 when Joseph forgave his brothers, will set you free to be a fruitful vessel of God.  This is how Joseph responded to his brothers who asked Joseph to forgive them.  Joseph tells his brothers in Genesis 50:19, “Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I the place of God?   But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.”

Knowing Jesus --What Does Genesis 50 verse 20 mean -- As for you, you meant evil against me BUT GOD meant it for good

  “You have heard that it has been said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.'” (Matthew 5:38)

 When our Lord Jesus made this statement, he was referring to a passage in Exodus 21, in which the Law of Moses sets the boundaries for revenge and introduces for the first time the principle of proportionality.  If your neighbor punches you in a fight and breaks your tooth, you can’t take revenge by stabbing him with a knife.  “A tooth for a tooth.”  The Law of Moses was meant to set boundaries and to restrain the human heart which seeks revenge so that the revenge would be in proportion to the damage done.  It’s important to understand that the Law of Moses does not represent the ultimate moral principles of God, principles of grace, compassion, and forgiveness.  Not at all, rather it was God’s temporary compromise making this clear in the New Testament:

 “He says unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning, it was not so.” (Matthew 19:8) 

 If Moses set boundaries and restraints, our Lord Jesus raised the standards back to God’s ultimate moral principles.  Rather than starting a vicious cycle of revenge — forgive.  Note that our Lord is talking about taking revenge on the offender, and not about taking revenge on the offense itself.

Biblical Proof --WordPress.com -- Jesus Was The End of the Law -- The Law of Moses was Abolished

 In other words, he is not saying that going against evil, protecting ourselves, or seeking justice is forbidden, rather we are being told to not take revenge on the person who hurt us but to pray for them.

  Later on, in his epistle in the Romans, God writes similar words and elaborates:

 “Recompense to no man evil for evil.  Provide things honest in the sight of all men.  If it be possible, as much as lies in you, live peaceably with all men.  Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath:  for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay says the Lord.” (Romans 12:17-19) 

 “But I say unto you, That you resist not evil:  but whosoever shall smite you on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.” (Matthew 5:39)

Daily Bible Reading -- WordPress -- If anyone slaps you on the right cheek turn to them the other cheek also illustration

 In Scripture, to slap someone’s right cheek one needs to use the back of the hand — a degrading and humiliating act against someone.  During the second temple period, this was used especially by the Roman guard. — when a Roman guard would (justifiably or not) slap a common citizen.  Many of the Jews would be so humiliated to receive such treatment from a Roman Gentile that they would lose their temper and fight back; not against the evil itself but against the evildoer — the Roman guard — and would strike him back.

Quora -- Police Officer in the New York Police Department

 As believers, we need to learn to suffer injustice when peace and forgiveness are the objectives, even if it means suffering physical harm, losing property, or enduring mistreatment.  And all this, by the way, was exactly what our Savior Jesus endured for us — he suffered injustice so that we could receive grace and peace.  As an example, from our times: Say a police officer strikes you and humiliates you — you need to take him to court and not try to hit him back.  It is further written in 1st Peter 3:9:

Knowing Jesus -- Bible -- He has enabled you to share in the in heritance that belongs to his people who live in the light

 “Not rendering evil for evil, for railing for railing:  but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that you should inherit a blessing.”  As was the case with Joseph and his evil brothers, God has a purpose when He allows us to be put in these situations.  When we fulfill God’s purpose by responding to an evil deed with a blessing, God has a special inheritance prepared for us to inherit.

Verbum Bible --Readings -- Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him

  A few chapters later, in chapter 18, one of Jesus’ disciples, Simon Peter, asked Him: “Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him?  till seven times?   Jesus says unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: Until seventy times seven.” (Matthew 18:21-22)

Facebook -- AlmuSalita by Fr. Luciano Felloni -- Matthew 18 verses 12 -- 22

 Our Lord Jesus is not saying that by the 78th time it’s ok to not forgive anymore, rather he is basing his answer on Genesis 4:24 and is using the symbolic number 7 to represent something infinite and perfect.  If we are called to forgive over and over again, then we can be sure that God also forgives us over and over again.  Our Lord Jesus continued and told His disciples a parable:

 “Therefore, is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.  And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents.  But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made.  The servant, therefore, fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay you all.  Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.  But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him a hundred pence:  and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that you owe.  And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.  And he would not:  but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.  So, when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.  Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O you wicked servant, I forgave you all that debt, because you desired me:  Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, even as I had pity on you?  And his lord was angry, and delivered him to the tormenters, till he should pay all that was due unto him.  So likewise, shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not everyone his brother their trespasses.” (Matthew 18:23-35)

 A debtor who owed an enormous debt was brought before a king, a debt of 10,000 talents, amount worth millions today, and a debt that was obviously more than the person could pay.  Therefore, the king ordered that the man, the man’s family, and his possessions be sold.  This man did not deny his debt but asked for more time to pay the king back.

 “And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt.” (Matthew 18:27).  The king decided to forgive his debt.

Got Questions -- How do I receive forgiveness from God -- Colorful Banner

Note the three elements of forgiveness:

  • To have mercy

  • To release

  • To pardon

 For instance, say I borrowed a friend’s car and accidentally wrecked it.  If my friend decides to have mercy on me, it means that he decided not to be angry with me and to not let the incident hurt our relationship.  However, I still owe him money to cover the repairs of the damage done to his car.  If my friend also releases me from my debt, it means that he decided to take care of the repairs himself and to not ask me to return the money.  This doesn’t mean that the cost for the repairs just disappeared — rather that my friend covered that cost from his own pocket in my stead.  He paid the debt that I was supposed to pay.  If my friend decides to pardon me as well, it means that he decided not to hold a grudge against me now or in the future, in other words, he is willing to lend me his car again.

Southern Living -- There is no love without forgiveness, and there is no forgivenss without love

 My friend could have just had mercy and forgiven me for my mistake yet demand that I cover the costs.  He could have released me from my debt but decided to cut off all communication with me.  He could have had mercy on me, forgiven me for my mistake, and even released me from my debt, but refuse to lend me his car in the future.

 But he was such a good friend that he not only had mercy on me, but also forgave me, discharged me from my debt, and covered the costs that I was supposed to pay — he even agreed to lend his car in the future.

Harvest.org -- Jesus Came to Pay a Debt He did Not Owe Because We Owed a Debt We Couldn't Pay

 This is true and perfect forgiveness.  This friend sounds too good to be true, right?  Yet this is the kind of forgiveness God gave us through the Messiah, our Redeemer and Savior, and the kind of forgiveness that He wants to extend to others through His indwelling presence in us.

Redeeming God -- 10 Reasons Hebrews 9 versse 22 -- Without The Shedding of Blood There is No Forgiveness of Sins

 OUR LORD JESUS CAME TO DO JUST THIS:  He took our sins upon Himself and by His blood paid our debt for us and in our stead.  It is written in Colossians:

 “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” (Colossians 3:13)

SlidePlayer -- Forgiving Does Not Mean Forgetting PowerPoint Slide

 We also need to be able to forgive others for sins they have committed against us.  Whoever truly understands the depth of forgiveness which our Savior gave us will surely be able to forgive others as well.

 “But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him a hundred pence:  and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me what you owe.  And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.  And he would not:  but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.” (Matthew 18:28-30)

Wordpress -- Worry is Useless -- Lord, how often shall I forgive my brother illustration

 How ironic it is that a moment ago you were forgiven, but now you yourself are unable to forgive another. The forgiven is unable to forgive.  This is a true picture of mankind.  Aren’t we all like that?  We all want to be forgiven, but we’re not so quick to forgive others.

 When someone sins against you and hurts you, you want to see justice done.  You demand that justice be done!

Wisdom Hunters -- When Someone Sins Against You -- Revenge and Justification Can Never Heal -- Only Forgiveness Can -- Shana Schutte

 When someone sins against you and hurts you, there are two ways you can respond:  The first, is to remove that person from your life, take revenge, and hope that person will suffer as well, and when they have suffered enough, only then will you feel that they paid the price for their deeds.  This is the response the Devil wants you to choose.

 The alternative is our Lord Jesus.  God wants every believer to “live by faith,” in response to God’s revealed Word.  Faith demands us to remember that we also were forgiven and that’s why we choose to pay the price in place of the person who’s hurt us.

St. John Studies -- Forgiveness is the best form of love... it takes a strong person to say sorry and an ever stronger person to forgive...

 Forgiveness isn’t easy at all and often times it’s counter cultural.  It’s important to understand that forgiving someone doesn’t mean allowing them to continue to hurt you or sin against you.  Forgiveness also doesn’t dismiss the accountability of the offender, but rather that it chooses to show grace despite the offense.  True forgiveness comes when we “DIE TO SELF” and allow our Lord Jesus to forgive through us.  God tells us in Romans 5:6, 8, 10, “For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. . . But God commends his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. . . For if when were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.” 

 Forgiveness isn’t a feeling.  We never really feel like forgiving — it is DYING TO SELF, so that CHRIST JESUS CAN LIVE HIS LIFE THROUGH US BY FORGIVING THROUGH US.  a dead person has no feelings — cannot hold any resentment.

 “For it is God who works in you BOTH to WILL and to DO of his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13)

Never Thirsty -- How Do I Repent of My Sins -- What are the Steps

FORGIVENESS PAVES A PATH OF

REPENTANCE FOR THE ONE WHO’S

BEEN FORGIVEN

 Forgiveness means choosing to have mercy on the one who’s sinned against you, in order to not damage the relationship.  Forgiveness is choosing to release the one who’s sinned against you from the debt he owes you.  And forgiveness is choosing to set that person free, pardon him, and give him grace now and in the future, and not hold a grudge against him in the future.

Andrea Unsinkable -- Forgive -- Really -- Holding a grudge doesn't make you strong; it makes you bitter

 “Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O you wicked servant, I forgave you all that debt, because you desired me:  Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, even as I had pity on you?  And his lord was angry, and delivered him to the tormenters, till he should pay all that was due unto him.  So likewise, shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not everyone his brother their trespasses.” (Matthew 18:32-35)

 In this parable, we get to take a close look at the man’s heart.  He knows how to beg for forgiveness from others, but he doesn’t acknowledge the forgiveness that was given him and that’s why he is unable to forgive others.

Crosswalk.com -- God's Forgiveness -- 8 Important Things to Understand

 Our human nature is an expert at self-justification.  “Me?  Of course, I deserve forgiveness!”  But we all know how to blame others:  When we’re in the wrong, suddenly the situation can be explained away through context and surrounding circumstances.

Pastor Rick's Daily Hope -- Forgive others because you need forgiveness too

 When we realize that we sin exactly like everyone else, without exception, we stop looking down on others and acknowledge the fact that we too need forgiveness, that we too have been forgiven an enormous debt — and that’s why we forgive others.

David Jeremiah Blog -- What the Bible Says About Christ's Second Coming

Printed with permission of Today, The Bible & You located at P.O. Box 1722 Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74013, Phone No. (918) 279-1136. The name of the original article in the July 2023 issue of Today’s Front Page was “FORGIVENESS: From God’s Eternal Perspective & Purpose” www.JohnBarela.com.

What Does God Require Every Born-again Believer to Be Faithful in?

On By learnbiblicalIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

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Today, The Bible & You

Today’s Front Page

The Nation’s Christian Newspaper

May 2023

What Does God Require Every Born-again

Believer to Be Faithful In?

Shutterstock -- Praying Hands On Open Bible Stock Photo

1st Corinthians 4:1-2, “Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.  Moreover, it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.“

  Can you be counted a steward of the mysteries of God?  Do you know the mystery of Christ?

 The word “mystery” appears twenty-eight times in the New Testament but is not found in the Old Testament.  The Greek word “musterion,” translated “mystery” does not mean something that is obscure or incomprehensible; rather it meant a truth given and revealed only to a select few that was unknown until it was revealed.  Only those initiated into the group learned the secrets and after initiation the mystery was revealed.

Stock -- Church Praying Pew Man Stock Photos

 Does this mean that Christianity has secrets?  No!  Some cults and false religions teach that there are special secrets that God only gives to a select few.  This select few generally are leaders in some false religion or cult which teaches that God reveals things to them that He does not reveal to the lay person in their religion.  They explain that the ordinary man in the pew cannot understand spiritual things and God has granted that privilege only to a small elite few.  According to their corrupt teachings, God has secrets that the common man cannot know without consulting the religious leader.  This reveals a possible motive for such a teaching and that these “leaders” use the secrets to control the people.  If only the leader knows the truth then you must go to the leader to learn what to do.

Wikipedia -- Babylonian Captivity

 Deuteronomy 18:20 says, “But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die.”  An example of this is found in the Book of Jeremiah.  He prophesied that Israel would be taken into captivity by the Babylonians.  Israel’s false prophets said it was not so and Israel should reject Jeremiah’s message.  These false prophets all died when Babylon invaded the land and destroyed Jerusalem.  Jeremiah, however, was spared by the Babylonians and even honored.  God’s true message and messenger was authenticated in the fulfillment of the message of God’s prophet.  Joshua 1:8 also attests to the authority of Scripture in the 14th Century BC and that Israel had God’s written word to follow.  God promised them “good success” if they turned not to the right or left in following His word.

The Gospel of Religion -- The Gospel of Jesus Christ

 God tells us, “Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith“ (Romans 16:25-26).

Christianity Today -- The Apostle Paul and His Times

 The chief use of the word “mysteries” in the New Testament was by the apostle Paul.  He used the term “mystery” to refer to some operation or plan of God that had not before this time been revealed.  It is never used to carry the idea of a secret that was to be withheld, but of one that is to be published in time.  Therefore, the word mystery in the New Testament refers to a previously unrevealed truth, that is now revealed and contains a supernatural element that still remains in spite of the fact that it has been made known.  For example, we can look at the passage of scripture in 1st Thessalonians 4:13-18 which reveals the coming Rapture of all the Christians.  It reveals to us the basic event, but not all the details. What we need to know God tells us, but when it will happen, is not told to us.

Knowing Jesus -- 43 Bible Verses about Mystery

 Paul says, “by the Scriptures…the mystery is made known to all nations.”  The truth is that biblical Christianity has no secrets!  Any truth that God has revealed is open to all to understand.  The Bible declares to all the world the good news of salvation to all men through the shed blood of our Lord Jesus.  Man has access to the Bible which is God’s Word and can know and understand spiritual truth for himself.  He does not have to rely on someone else to teach him.  He can examine the teachings of church leaders, preachers and pastors to see if the things they teach are correct and what the Bible actually teaches.  Be careful if any teacher becomes offended when you question what they teach or believe. To the contrary, God’s leaders should welcome all questions as to what the Bible says.  When questions are asked, the opportunity is presented to verify the teachings according to God’s Word.  That has a threefold benefit of teaching the truth, strengthening a person’s faith and enabling them to teach others (1st Timothy 2:2).  This responsibility is given to every believer to know first-hand what the truth is.

Beautiful in Jesus -- What Does the Word of God Do in Our Lives -- (Here are 10 Powerful Things)

 “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2nd Timothy 2:15)

“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” (1st John 4:1)

Loving Gospel -- Having been born again not of corruptible seed

 The problem today is not with the Bible though some would falsely say it is.  The problem is with those who will not study and become approved in the Word of God.  This is the source of false doctrine and division within Christianity today.  God has clearly revealed to us His truth and all we need to do is to believe and follow it.

 The List of Truths which were mysteries in Old Testament times but were revealed in the New Testament.  Here is a list of the Mysteries: 

1.) Mystery of Christ IN YOU, Colossians 1:27 and Church as the Bride of Christ, Ephesians 5:28-32.

2.) Mystery of Israel’s blindness Romans 11:25, The “fullness of the times of the Gentiles.”

3.) The Mystery of Babylon, the False Church, Revelation 17:5.

4.) Mystery of the Kingdom of Heaven, Matthew 13:11.

5.) Mystery of the Rapture, 1st Corinthians 15:51-52, 1st Thessalonians 4:13-18, Romans 8:10-121; Of Godliness 1st Timothy 3:16.

6.) Mystery of the Jews / Gentiles One Body — Church, Ephesians 3:3-6.

7.) The Mystery of Iniquity, 2nd Thessalonians 2:7.

8.) Mystery of Godliness, the Incarnation, 1st Timothy 3:16.

9.) Mystery of God’s Will, Ephesians 1:9.

Beautiful in Jesus -- What Does Christ In You Mean

 CHRIST IN YOU — The Most important mystery God wants us to declare is given to us in Colossians 1:25-28, “Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:  Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.”

Holiness Revival Movement -- Ignorance of Church Leaders Makes Holy Living Impossible For Many Christians

 Sadly, this mystery of CHRIST IN YOU continues to be a mystery to the overwhelming pastors and Christian leaders around the world, which is Christ in you.  Because of this they cannot fully understand verses such as these:

Philippians 2:13, “For it is God which works in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”

Galatians 2:20, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live: yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

Darrell Creswell -- WordPress.com -- Inspirational Bible Verses -- I have come that you might have Life

 What does God wants us to know?  Simple.  That it is God that worketh [who is energizing / creating the power] in you!  It is often thought to be the very reverse, and people often feel that if God works “in us to will and to do.”  How many times do you hear, “Do the best you can.”  “Be a good Christian.”  “Be a good example to others.”  This is exactly the opposite of what God intends.  God tells us in Jeremiah 33:3, “Call unto me and I will show you great and mighty things that thou knowest not.”  God says, “Pray to me, and when you do, I am going to show you things that you know absolutely nothing about.”  When we yield to him, Christ Jesus in us, will guide us and place us in positions to fulfill the good works He has planned to complete in us.

Christian Posters Free -- WordPress.com -- Good Works -- Ephesians 2 verse 10

 This is what God is telling us in Ephesians 2:10, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”  God who knows the end from the beginning has already prepared before we were ever born, the good works that He wants to complete through each believer.  God himself will be the one who will be energizing us TO WILL and who will also be THE DOING of this work IN US.  CHRIST IN YOU will be doing this work. 

Now Then Alliance Church -- Acts 8 verses 34 and 35

 A great example is given to us how God worked in the life of His disciple Philip BOTH to WILL and to DO.  God provides us with this account in Acts 8:26-35, “And the angel of the Lord spake unto Phillip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.  and he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.  Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.  And Philip ran thither to him and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?  And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me?  And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.  The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:  In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation?  for his life is taken from the earth.  And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this?  of himself, or of some other man?  Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.”

Jules Jewels -- WordPress.com -- Filthy Rags -- Isaiah 64 verse 6

 At the time these things are happening, we don’t really understand that it is God who is leading us.  But when we look back on our lives, we can clearly see CHRIST IN YOU, who has led us all the way.  Any good that can ever come from us is the result of CHRIST IN US.  How do we know?  Because God tells us in John 6:63 that the flesh profits nothing.  Nothing good can ever come out of our human soul . . . we have a sinful nature.  It is written in Isaiah 64:6, “But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.”

Holiness Revival Movement Worldwide -- You Muat Be Born Again To Worship God Acceptably

 God does not compel or force us against our will.  He leads us to will as well as to do.  The will cannot be forced; and the meaning here must be that God exerts such an influence as to make us willing to obey Him. 

Printed with permission of Today, The Bible & You located at P.O. Box 1722, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74013, Phone No. (918) 279-1136.  The name of the original article in the May 2023 issue of Today’s Front Page was “What Does God Require Every Born-Again Believer to Be Faithful In?” www.JohnBarela.com.  

Could the Antichrist Be Artificial Intelligence?

On By learnbiblicalIn Artificial Intelligence; ChatGPT; The Mark of the Beast; The End Times; Cashless SocietyLeave a comment

Today, The Bible & You

Today’s Front Page

The Nation’s Christian Newspaper

June 2023

Could the Antichrist Be

Artificial Intelligence?

 Are There Two Antichrists Referred to in Revelation 13?  Will an AI Robot be one of the Two Beasts in this Chapter?

Emmanuel Macron wants to rule like the Roman god Jupiter

 During the future tribulation period, the world will be ruled by a godless man presiding over an evil government system.  The Bible associates this end-times ruler with a terrible beast in Revelation and in the Book of Daniel.

Revelation Illustrated -- The Three Beasts and 666 Image

 In Revelation 13, God presents us with a nightmarish vision of a dragon and two beasts.  The first beast comes out of the sea and receives power from the dragon, or Satan.  This beast is a true monstrosity.

 Revelation 13:1-2; 11-12, “And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.  And the beast which I saw was like a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority…  And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.  And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.”  Daniel’s vision of the beast is similar in many ways to John’s (Daniel 7:7-8, 19-27).  Studying both Daniel and Revelation in tandem is profitable.

Strasbourg -- The European capital building

 In Revelation, the term beast refers to two related entities.  Sometimes “the beast” refers to the end-times’ empire.  The seven heads and ten horns indicate that the beast will be a coalition of nations — which many students of prophecy believe this first beast refers to the European Union / NATO that rises to power to subdue the earth under Satan’s control.  Many students of prophecy also believe the Second Beast refers to Antichrist references to “the beast” in Revelation picture an individual, the man who is the political leader and head of the beastly empire.

Christianity -- Who is the Beast in Revelation 13 and Have We Met Him Yet

 The beast will receive a deadly wound and be healed of it (Revelation 13:3).  He will exert authority over the whole world and demand worship (Revelation 13:7-8).  He will wage war against God’s people, and he will prevail against them for a time (Revelation 13:7; Daniel 7:21).  However, the beast’s time is short: according to Revelation 13:5 and Daniel 7:25, he will only be permitted absolute authority for forty-two months (three-and-a-half years).

Savior of the World -- Antichrist Mystery -- Who is on the Antichrist Side -- 2nd Thessalonians 2 verse 3 and 4

 We believe that the beast in Revelation is the Antichrist, the one “Who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sits in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.” (2nd Thessalonians 2:4).  He is also “the man of iniquity / lawlessness” and “the man doomed as the son of perdition” (2nd Thessalonians 2:3).  In Daniel’s vision, the Antichrist is the “little horn” that rises from the head of the terrifying beast (Daniel 7:8).

Government Technology -- Higher Ed Reactions to ChatGPT Run the Gamut (Man typing on a computer keyboard)

Growing Fears of ChatGPT: Enforcing the

Mark of the Beast

 Never before in history have all the elements of the fulfillments of these end-times prophesies emerged at the same time.  “And deceives them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.  And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as not worship the image of the beast should be killed.  And he causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: 

 “And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.  Here is wisdom.  Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.” (Revelation 13:14-18).

YouTube -- ChatGPT & Generative AI -- How to Deal with Hyperchange -- Revolutionizing Society -- ChatGPT & Generative AI's Impact on the Future

Generative AI could be an authoritarian

breakthrough in brainwashing

 The Hill, February 26, 2023, | Generative AI is poised to be the free world’s next great gift to authoritarians. The viral launch of ChatGPT — a system with eerily human-like capabilities in composing essays, poetry and computer code — has awakened the world’s dictators to the transformative power of generative AI to create unique, compelling content at scale.

LinkedIn -- Generative AI -- Raising Awareness of the Challenges and Opportunities

 But the fierce debate that has ensued among Western industry leaders on the risks of releasing advanced generative AI tools has largely missed where their effects are likely to be most pernicious: within autocracies.  AI companies and the U.S. government alike must institute stricter norms for the development of tools like ChatGPT in full view of their game-changing potential for the world’s authoritarians — before it is too late.

The Guardian -- Xi and Putin urge NATO to rule out expansion as Ukraine tensions rise

 In 2019, China’s Xi Jinping demanded just that when he ordered his party-state to leverage AI to “comprehensively increase” the ability of the Chinese Communist Party to mold Chinese public opinion.  Russia’s Vladimir Putin has similarly doubled down on AI-enabled propaganda in the wake of his Ukraine invasion, including a fake video of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky calling for Ukrainians to surrender.  These efforts are buttressed by a dizzying array of Chinese and Russian agencies tasked with thought control, cultivating a competitive ecosystem of digital propaganda tools underwritten by multibillion-dollar budgets each year.

Quora -- How do Dictators manage to stay in power

 Unfortunately, keeping cutting-edge AI models out of autocrats’ hands is a tall order.  On a technical level, generative AI models lend themselves to easy theft. Despite requiring enormous resources to build, once developed, models can be easily copied and adapted at minimal cost.

US News.com -- Elon Musk -- Artificial Intelligence is the Biggest Risk That We Face as a Civilization

‘AI is one of the greatest risks to the

future of civilization’

 Israel Hayom, March 2, 2023 | Elon Musk has clashed often with securities regulators and highway safety authorities, but there’s one area the Tesla and Twitter chief says the government should regulate now: artificial intelligence.  “AI stresses me out,” Musk said near the end of a more than three-hour presentation to Tesla investors about company plans this week.  Musk said in Dubai, “AI is one of the greatest risks to the future of civilization.” 

Firstpost -- Elon Musk calls ChatGPT a danger to civilization, says not what he intended when he backed OpenAI

 His words are more important today, as the rise of ChatGPT threatens to disrupt the job market with more sophisticated, human-like writing.  Musk is the co-founder of OpenAI, the U.S. startup now partially owned by Microsoft Corp, that developed ChatGPT, a so-called generative AI tool that provides human-like responses to user input.  Musk added about the development of ChatGPT but he stressed that “there are great dangers in it.”  Honestly, I think AI safety should be regulated,” Musk said. “I think it’s actually a bigger risk to society than cars and planes”.

Unilad -- Elon Musk spoke at World Government Summit that AI needs to have rules and regulations

 Shortly, after mentioning the development of ChatGPT, Musk spoke to attendees at the World Government Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.  He added that while cars, planes, and medicine must comply with legal safety standards, AI still lacks rules and regulations to govern its development.

Al Sadat Marketing -- Scientists Want to use Real Human Brain Cellls for AI

This Won’t End Well: Scientists Hope to

Create AI from Human Brain Cells

 Breitbart News February 28, 2023 | Scientists at John Hopkins University are working on research to enable AI to be constructed using human brain cells, arguing that the use of organic materials is more efficient than traditional computing systems.

Frontiers -- Organoid Intelligence (OI) the new frontier in biocomputing and intelligence-in-a-dish

 The technology has come to be known as OI, or “organoid intelligence,” and scientists have already achieved success in “programming” organic materials.  In October, scientists in Australia linked a dish of 800,000 living brain cells to a computer, successfully teaching it to play the 1970s video game Pong.  Now, researchers are hoping that organic materials produced in vitro, known as “organoids,” can provide a more efficient alternative to silicon computer chips.

LinkedIn -- Biocomputers & Organoid Intelligence

 To harness these capabilities, the scientists hope to employ “organoids,” 3D cultures of human brain cells that replicate parts of our noggin responsible for learning and memory. Their size allows the neurons within them to form significantly more connections than standard silicone computer chips, which could be rendered obsolete by this bold new biotech.

 ChatGPT is an advanced conversational AI chatbot based on the latest GPT-3.5 model.  For this message, ChatSonic was asked this question:

 How could AI enforce the Mark of the Beast as described in Revelation 13?

This was its answer:

 “AI can be a powerful tool for enforcing the Mark of the Beast as described in Revelation 13.  AI can be used to identify individuals and track their activities, movements, and actions.  It can be used to store personal data, monitor compliance with laws and regulations, and even enforce punishments. AI can also be used to identify individuals and monitor their interactions with others and their environments…  The possibilities are impressive and could potentially be used to help create a system of control and enforcement.”

Steppes of Faith -- The Antichrist, the False Prophet and The Day of the Lord

 According to the Word of God, there are two humans (the beast and the false prophet) that are possessed by Satan in the last days, and they control a one world government and religion.

Life, Hope and Truth -- The Man of Sin and the Mark of the Beast

  The first scriptural references to the beast and his mark are in Revelation 13:

 “And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and I saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.  And the beast I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion.  And the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.  And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.  And they worshipped the dragon who gave power unto the beast; and they worshipped the beast, saying, “Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?  And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and power was given unto him to continue for forty-two months.  And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.  And power was given to make war with the saints and to overcome them:  and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues and nations.  And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.  If anyone have an ear, let him hear.  He that leads into captivity shall go into captivity shall go into captivity; he who kills with the sword must be killed with the sword.  Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.”

 “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke as a dragon.  And he exercises all the power of the first beast before him and causes the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.  And he does great wonders, so that he makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.  And he deceives them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had the power to do in the sight of the beast, saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast which had the wound by a sword and did live.  And he had power to give breath to the image of the beast, should both speak and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast to be killed.  And he causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand or in their foreheads, and that no one may buy or sell save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.  Here is wisdom. Let him that has understanding count the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is Six hundred threescore and six.”

Will a Full Blown GLOBAL Economic Collapse Strike in 2023 -- America First Report -- J.D. Rucker

 The global powers have determined that national sovereignty is destined to fail.  We already see this happening with the economic collapse, well under way. When the Rapture happens, there will be global chaos:

Slideshare -- Establishment of the New World Order (Revelation 13) -- Liviing in the End Times -- Signs that we are the Last Generation

 With governments crippled and devastated, and failed markets and banks, a “New World Order” will be the only solution offered, and then the Mark of the Beast will rise from the ruins of internationally failed economies.

Xpress Money -- The Pros and Cons of a Cashless Society

 Today, we are the first generation with the technology available to fulfill such a prophecy of a “cashless” society.

CNN -- The Evolution of a Cashless Society -- How Close Each Country is to a Cashless Society

 Already we are constantly hearing about the “New World Order”, or “global community”, and these buzz slogans are slowly sinking in as the world heads towards an international financial and political system, a cashless society controlled by a computer data base that covers the entire globe, keeping track of every man, woman and child, where they cross borders and when they buy and sell, exactly like the one predicted in Revelation chapter 13 nearly 2,000 years ago!

Twitter -- Who is like The Beast -- Artificial Intelligence, Robot

Enforcing the Mark of the Beast

 In the middle of the Tribulation, the Antichrist will enter the Jewish Temple and demand to be worshiped. He’ll also set up an image of himself.  The image will be able to speak, and it will demand worship. There are already many early prototypes of the image of the Beast, using robotics and artificial intelligence:

Bible Questions -- What Does 666 Mean -- What is the Mark of the Beast (Seven Leopards)

 If, sometime in the future, you are facing the choice of receiving this “mark’ in your hand or forehead (whatever it is), REMEMBER the eternal consequences:

Living Scriptures and Pictures -- Lake of Fire -- Revelation 14 verse 14 and Revelation 20 verse 15

 “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.” (Revelation 14:11)

Desiring God - What Is The Rapture -- Clouds

 The Good News is that we believe that the Rapture will occur before then.  If you have asked the Lord Jesus to forgive your sins, having been made clean by the blood of the Lamb of God, your name has been written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

Love Worth Finding -- We share Jesus as we Anticipate His Return

 If you are not sure that you are saved, simply pray this prayer sincerely, “Lord Jesus, forgive me. I have sinned against you and you alone.  Thank you for your promise in 1st John 1:7, ” … the blood of Jesus Christ, God’s son cleanses us from all sin.” Forgive me, Lord Jesus. Thank you for paying the penalty for my sins and washing all my sins away.  Thank you for your promise in Isaiah 1:18, ” … though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow, though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Thank you, Lord Jesus.  Help me to understand the Bible when I read it, so I can learn to love you more.  Amen.

Signs of the Times -- The power of the Cross -- Signs of the Times

Printed with permission of Today, The Bible & You located at P.O. Box 1722, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74013, Phone No. (918) 279-1136.  The name of the original article in the June 2023 issue of Today’s Front Page was “Could the Antichrist Be Artificial Intelligence?  Are There Two Antichrists Referred to in Revelation 13?  Will an AI Robot be one of the Two Beasts in this Chapter?” www.JohnBarela.com

Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will be Done in Earth as it Is in Heaven

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Today, The Bible & You

Today’s Front Page

The Nation’s Christian Newspaper

April 2023

Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will be Done in Earth

as it Is in Heaven

Millions have prayed the Lord’s prayer for hundreds of years and yet have not the foggiest idea what it refers to.  Find out about some special plans God has waiting for us in Heaven and in Earth.

Beyond Today -- Christ's Thousand Year Reign on Earth

  Thy Kingdom Come on Earth refers to the time when our Lord Jesus will return in His glorified body to this earth with you and me.  We will also have a glorified body like our Lord Jesus.  He tells us in 1st John 3:1-2, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore, the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.  Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”

On the Line Ministries -- What Will The Millennial Reign of Jesus Be Like

  Our Lord Jesus will return to the earth and set up His Kingdom on earth for one thousand years.  It is commonly known as the Millennial Reign of Christ.  Besides our Lord Jesus and the born-again believers, the earth will be populated by ordinary, living, breathing humans, some of whom survived the Great Tribulation Period, together with those who will be born (in the usual manner) during the Kingdom Period.  This time on earth will be completely different as we know it today or have ever known it.  The human lifespan will return to what it was in the days of Adam, with many living to the age of 1,000 years of age.  But they will be mortal humans in the sense that, even with Satan bound, men will still die, and sin will still exist.

 “There shall be no more thence an infant of days, nor an old man that hath not filled his days: for the child shall die at hundred years old; but the sinner being a hundred years old shall be accursed.” (Isaiah 65:20)

  Further proving that the inhabitants of the Kingdom Period are ordinary humans; they will have to work for a living, even as they enjoy an extended lifespan:

  “And they shall build houses, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them. They shall not labor in vain, nor bring forth for trouble; for they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their offspring with them.” (Isaiah 65:21-22)

Orthodox Christianity Then and Now -- The Rapture

  Cohabitating the earth with mortal humans, Scripture tells us, are the immortal resurrected dead, the born-again Christians who were taken to Heaven before the Great Tribulation Period when the Antichrist rules for seven years.

SlideShare -- Lesson 23 -- Chart of The Church Age Saints and The Tribulation Martyrs

  “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.  But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished.  This is the first resurrection.” (Revelation 20:4-5)

The Rapture According to Jesus Part Two

  “Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ and shall reign with him a thousand years.” (Revelation 20:6)

David Jeremiah Blog -- What is the Great White Throne Judgment

  The First Resurrection refers to all of the believers who will be judged for the greater or lesser REWARDS, not sins because our Lord Jesus already paid the price for them.  The Second Resurrection refers to the time when the dead bodies of lost sinners will have their spirit and soul reunited with their body and be judged at the end of time for the greater or lesser punishment for their sins.

Scripture Way -- What is Eternal Life -- Biblical Definition of Eternal Life -- John 17 verse 3

  Revelation 20:4-6 mentions a “first resurrection” and identifies those involved as “blessed and holy.”  The second death (the lake of fire, Revelation 20:14) has no power over these individuals.

The Bible identifies the ‘first resurrection’ as occurring in four stages, not two.

The Feast of Firstfruits signifies the Resurrected Christ for our Enjoyment as a Feast

  The First Resurrection, in general, is the raising of all of the bodies of believers from all ages.  It corresponds with our Lord Jesus’ teaching of the resurrection of the just” (Luke 14:14) and the “resurrection of life” (John 5:29).  It clearly takes place in various stages; the first was Jesus Christ Himself two thousand years ago.  He was the ‘First fruits’ (1st Corinthians 15:20).  Who prepared the way of salvation for those who were born again in Him during the Church Age.

NeverThirsty -- Are the Old Testament Saints Resurrected at the Rapture

   The second stage involved the resurrection of the saints of Jerusalem:

 “And the graves were opened: and many bodies of the saints which slept arose. And came out of the graves after His resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.” (Matthew 27:52-53).

Heritage Baptist Church -- 1st Thessalonians 1 verses 9-10 -- A Word of Hope for those who missed the Rapture

  Stage three is the resurrection of the “dead in Christ” known as the Rapture of “we which are alive and remain” at the Lord’s return for His Church at the conclusion of the Church Age. (1st Thessalonians 4:17).

  And finally, the resurrection of the martyrs at the conclusion of the final seven years of the Age of the Law. (Revelation 20:4, Daniel 9:24).

See you in Heaven -- Tribulation Martyrs

  All these groups are part of the ‘first resurrection’ upon whom the ‘second death’ (in the lake of fire) will have ‘no power’.

  From the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus to the resurrection of the Tribulation martyrs and O.T. saints (Daniel 12:13); it is all part of the general ‘first’ resurrection of the dead in four stages, each of which is clearly separated according to Scripture to a specific purpose in the overall Plan of God.

  The event which divides the First Resurrection of the Just and Second Resurrection of the Unjust is the millennial kingdom with Christ on earth.

Heritage Baptist Church -- Life in the Millennial Kindgom Matthew 6 verses 9 - 13

  The last of the righteous are raised to reign “with Christ a thousand years” (Revelation 20:4), but the “rest of the dead [that is, the wicked] lived not again until the thousand years were finished.” (Revelation 20:5).

  As part of understanding Scripture’s outline of the eternal Plan of God, it’s helpful to consider the various epochs of human history from the perspective of the angels who did NOT join the rebellion, and who, by nature, have no understanding of what sin really is or how it really works.

Tuko News -- Names of Angels of God and their Duties according to the Bible

 “Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; WHICH THINGS THE ANGELS DESIRE TO LOOK INTO.“ (1st Peter 1:12).

Bible Hub -- Hebrews 1 verse 14 -- Are Not the Angels Ministering Spirits Sent to Serve Those Who Will Inheirt Salvation

  We are a mystery to the angels.  The Bible says they are charged with ministering to us, but that one day, they will serve us (NOT WORSHIP, ONLY SERVE) and they will also be judged BY us.  (1st Corinthians 6:3)

Angels Transport Believers to Heaven -- Dr. David Jeremiah Teaching on Death

  “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with SO GREAT A CLOUS OF WITNESSES, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,” (Hebrews 12:1)

Isaiah 14 introduces us to the first outbreak of sin in the universe.

Vicky's Forum -- The Destructive Sin of Pride

  “For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into Heaven, I will exult my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of congregation, in the sides of the north:  I will be like the most High.” (Isaiah 14:13-14)

RayKLiu -- WordPress.com -- Origin of Pride

  For his sin of arrogance, God pronounced judgment on Lucifer, the most honored of His angels, and those rebellious angels who followed him,

  “Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.” (Isaiah 14:15)

   The existence of humanity is often described by theologians as the ‘trial of Satan.’

Rhema, The Faithful Church -- Jesus -- The Righteous Judge

  The Courtroom is Planet Earth, with our Lord Jesus as the Righteous Judge, the angels as witnesses, and with sinful mankind serving as evidence.  It is more than just the trial of Satan.  Sin itself is on trial.

  Lucifer, called in Scripture, “the anointed cherub that covert” was highly favored of God; “and I have set thee so” (Ezekiel 28:14) Isaiah 14:14 defines that first sin as, “I will” — the sin of pride.

The Trial Exhibits

Bible Wiki -- Fandom -- Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil

  The trial opens with Exhibit 1 — Adam and Eve.  They are placed in a perfect environment and given only one command — to avoid the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge. They fail — and humanity inherits a sin nature.

Josephine Elia -- Antediluvian Timeline From Adam to Noah

  Exhibit 2 — Humanity is allowed free reign until the Flood — the so-called “Age of Conscience”, Without Divine interaction or instruction, society becomes so sinful and corrupt that God saves Noah and his family alive and destroys the rest in the Flood.

His Kingdom -- Relative Lifespans of the Patriarchs

  Exhibit 3 — During the Age of the Patriarchs, God spoke directly to chosen individuals, Abraham, Noah, Lot, et al. Each, even having spoken directly with God, commit some heinous sins.

Getty Images -- The Two Tablets of the Ten Commandments

  Having gone from one commandment (the Age of Innocence) to no commandments at all (the Age of Conscience) to direct confrontation, (the Age of Patriarchs) God progresses to giving mankind the Ten Commandments (the Age of the Law).  Not one person ever kept all ten of them throughout his lifetime, no matter what the circumstances. (King David, for example, broke all ten of them.)

David Jeremiah Blog -- The Seven Churches of Revelation in Church History

  Exhibit 4 — The Age of the Law, during which time the Commandments of God became so corrupted and perverted that it became necessary to scrap the whole system and replace it with the Age of Grace.  To accomplish this God Himself stepped out of space and time, took on the form of sinful man, kept the Law on our behalf, and paid the price for our sin. (Death).  In so doing, He made a way for all sinners to have their sins washed away by HIs Blood and be forgiven by faith through grace.  Grace means that God offers to us something we do and can never deserve — the forgiveness of sins.

House to House Heart to Heart -- Salvation is Free But It Is Not Cheap

  But most of the world rejects even the free offer of grace, preferring a life of unregenerated sin, thinking that they are good and establish their own code of conduct.

  That constitutes Exhibit 5 — and it must make the angelic witnesses gasp in disbelief. From the perspective of the angelic witness, then, ‘one little sin’ has thus far brought mankind to the point it is today. So far, God has given sin every opportunity to prove itself of its wages.

WikiHow -- How to be Born again (with pictures)

  “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:23).

  Exhibit 6 — The Age of Grace concludes at the Rapture. The Rapture removes the restraining influence of the Holy Spirit, giving Satan (and sin) free reign for seven years.  And the end result is the near-destruction of all human life.  Our Lord Jesus then returns at His promised Second Coming, when He binds Satan for a thousand years, and reigns Personally from Jerusalem.  Jerusalem willl then become Capital of the Planet Earth and Israel the Head of the Nations.

Sabbath School Net -- Monday -- The Heavenly Assembly in the Throne Room

  Mortal humanity has no excuse, our Lord Jesus will be there, in Person, for all to see.  Satan’s influence is restrained, lifespans are extended, there are no more wars, famine or poverty, and humanity is returned to the Eden-like state from which it began. With God Himself on the Throne of human government, ruling with a rod of iron for a thousand years, Satan is loosed for ‘a little season’.

 “And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison, And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to whom is as the sand of the sea.” (Revelation 20:7)

Precept Austin -- Millennial Kingdom on a Timeline

  The mortal humans who have lived in a state of God-given idyllic bliss for a thousand years, under the influence of Satan raise army to bring against the King of Kings and Lord of Lords Himself.

   Exhibit 7: Sin is judged according to its works.

JW.org -- What is the Lake of Fire -- Is it the Same as Hell or Gehenna Bible Questions

 “And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. And I saw a great white throne, and Him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.” (Revelation 20:10)

 Next, we see the SECOND resurrection.  Unlike the first resurrection, it has only one phase.

Lamb and Lion Ministries -- The Certainity of Judgment -- Second Coming

  “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. . . 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:12, 14)

Crosswalk.com -- The Lamb's Book of Life -- 10 Things Your Need to Know

   In the eternal Plan of God, everything has a purpose. There are no omissions, no errors, and no inconsistencies.

Boston University -- Evolving Ideas of Sin with a half eaten Apple Illustration

  From Genesis to Revelation, a central theme of Scripture is that sin is the cause of death, and will ultimately be eradicated from existence, together with all those who “received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.” (2nd Thessalonians 2:12)

  Praise the Lord for that OTHER central theme of Scripture.

Pure Flix -- Jesus' Words to the Thief on the Cross Teach Us True Forgiveness

  “For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

Printed with permission of Today, The Bible & You located at P.O. Box 1722, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74013, Phone No. (918) 279-1136. The name of the original article in the June 2022 issue of Today’s Front Page was “Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will be Done in Earth as it is in Heaven.” wwwJohnBarela.com 

Amazing Changes Coming! The Millennium: Christ’s Rule on Earth

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Today, The Bible & You

Today’s Front Page

The Nation’s Christian Newspaper

February 2022

Amazing Changes Coming!

The Millennium: Christ’s Rule on Earth

What will life on earth be like in

10 to 50 years?

The Millennium -- Christ's Rule on Earth

 Upon our Lord’s return to earth, His first order of business is to defeat the then-current world ruler, the Antichrist and his armies.  After the Lord’s victories at the Battle of Armageddon, He will then set up His government, the Kingdom of God upon the earth.  Our Lord’s thousand years of rule (Revelation 20:4) is commonly referred to as the Millennium.  While some Christians are aware of this term, very few have a concept of what the Millennium will really be like.

Continue reading “Amazing Changes Coming! The Millennium: Christ’s Rule on Earth” →

Is There Life After Death?

On By learnbiblicalIn Heaven, Hell and Is There Life After Death, The Gospel of Jesus Christ Crucified, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Today, The Bible & You

Today’s Front Page

The Nation’s Christian Newspaper

February 2023

Is There Life After Death?

Do people actually go to either eternal bliss in Heaven

or an eternal Hell after death?

Is There Life After Death? — SettingSun Wellness

  Critics of God and historical Christianity have always asked, “How can an all-loving God punish people forever in hell and punish them for any wrongdoing?”  But here’s the thing, there are many more attributes to God than love.  God is not only “all-loving.”  God is just.  God is holy.  The Bible speaks seven times more about the Holiness of God than the Love of God.  All of these attributes of God combine into the totality of who God is.

 A better question would be, “How can a loving God who is righteous, forgiving, just, and merciful condemn people to hell forever?”  There is a Scripture that perfectly describes this two-fold answer about God that is more completely represented.  This is God speaking to Moses in Exodus 34:5-7: 

 “And the Lord descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the Lord.  And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,  Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation.”

  We must understand that God, who is just and holy, must punish those who sin.  His Love does not come at the expense of His Holiness.  God tells us in Ezekiel 18:20, “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”  The answer is simple.  When we sin, we sin against an infinitely holy God.  Therefore, there’s an infinite offense.  This is why eternal punishment is the result.

 The Scripture in Exodus 34:7 appears to be a total contradiction, “Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, AND that will by no means clear the guilty.”

  We are told that God is keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin … then immediately declares that He “will by no means clear the guilty.”  We are told in Romans 3:10-12, “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.  They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.”

  The answer tells us why God gave us the Commandments in Romans 3:19-20, “Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore, by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.“

  God will never clear the guilty — those who think they can enter the Kingdom of God by their own goodness and good deeds.  God wants all to know that is only when they come to the Lord Jesus, asking forgiveness for their sins, and thanking our Savior for washing ALL of our sins with His blood.  That is how we receive God’s mercy, and He takes our guilt.

  God’s holiness and judgment begin to be taken seriously when we consider the effects of sin in the Flood of Noah.  God had to destroy the entire planet earth in order to redeem those millions who would come to believe in Him after the Flood.

  According to an article at Answers in Genesis (AiG), “some people believe the population was relatively low” (whatever that means) because of “wars, disease, and other factors.”  However, if the population growth rate in the pre-Flood world (in the years between 4004 and 2348 BCE) was “equal to the growth rate in 2000, there could have been about 750 million people at the time of the Flood.”

  But “given the extremely long lifespans before the Flood, the growth rate could have been “close to four billion at the Flood” The Earth’s population may have been upwards of four billion in the year 2348 BCE!

  Future judgment is as important now as past Judgment.  Earth currently has about more than eight billion inhabitants.  How many of them will be judged with eternal condemnation if the Lord were to return soon?

  Approximately 31% of the world’s population is affiliated with Christianity.  Let’s leave aside the fact that some percentage of these individuals would not meet an evangelical definition of “Christian.”  According to AiG, if the end of history came this year at least 4.8 billion individuals would be cast into a hell where they would consciously endure eternal torment (Righting America, pp 224-225).  The righteous drowning of millions / billions of human beings prefigures the righteous burning of billions of human beings.

 As God’s judgment in Noah’s flood, so will his judgment appear once again as it is written:

  “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction and many there be which go in there at: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14)

May be an image of text that says 'The question is NOT Why would a loving God send anyone to hell." The question is "Why would anyone choose hell over a loving God."'

 There seems to be a great division in beliefs on the presence of what the Bible calls “Hell” and if it even actually exists.  Just as Satan has propagated the supreme lie that he doesn’t exist in the minds of those who are in rebellion against a Holy God, so that same archenemy of what is holy is trying to convince these same people that there is no such thing as “hell”.  Logically, the fool themselves by thinking if there is no Satan, and no hell … what do I need with God anyways?  Even some denominations and religious leaders diminish the horror of what hell really is!

  Note this quote of a minister that doesn’t believe that God is a God of Love, nor does he believe in an eternal hell, “For centuries, many ministers have been preaching “hellfire and brimstone” sermons and promoting a religion of fear by teaching that the unsaved face an eternity of torture.  The common teaching is that incorrigibly wicked people will be tormented forever in some fiery, macabre manner in a terrifying place called hell.  This horrible fate usually conjures up in people’s minds visions of an ever-burning hellfire where sinners are continually roasted on spits, and a devil with horns and a tail runs around sticking his captives with a pitchfork.”

 The fact of the manner is that God is Holy and must judge sin.  The Flood of Noah is documented proof.  In Revelation 14:9-11 God makes it clear about a yet future judgment for those who take the Mark of the Beast and take upon them the image of Antichrist:

 “And the third angel followed them saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand.  The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the Lamb: And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.”

 I, John Barela, ministered in a church several years ago where God was pouring out His Spirit in ways that I had never seen before.  People were coming to our Lord Jesus in amazing ways and responding to His Word.  There was a Methodist congregation nearby where most of their members began attending our fellowship because their pastor did not believe in the Scriptures as the Word of God.

   On one occasion a lady from our congregation called and asked if I would meet with some of the ladies from the Methodist group who were misrepresenting things that I had said, and she wanted me to tell them personally what the difference was between our fellowship and the Methodist teaching.

  There were about twelve at the meeting and it went well.  They asked me if I had said there were demons on top of the Methodist building, which of course the answer was NO.

  They told me that their pastor believes in the Bible exactly the same way that I do.  I knew this was not true but left it at that. Then they asked if I would meet with their pastor and share these things with him in front of them.  I told them yes.  So, they called the pastor and he agreed to meet immediately.

  We had a nice calm visit in his home.  I began by telling the Methodist minister, “We are here because many of your people have joined our fellowship recently and these people think that you and I believe exactly the same way regarding the Bible.  You have a right to believe anything you want, and I am not to challenge you about that.  I am here simply to show the different doctrinal positions we have.  Then I asked him a few questions:

  1.) “Do you believe in the Bible?” He answered, “Oh, yes, of course, I do.”  The Methodist people from his congregation all smiled with satisfaction at this reply.

  2.) “Do you believe in the plenary verbal inspiration of the Scriptures and its historical accuracy.”  He answered, “Do you mean if I believe in the Bible cover to cover and that Adam and Eve were literal people?  I said, “Yes.”  He answered, “Well, no I don’t.  Adam and Eve were not people, but merely an allegory.  And of course, I do not believe in Sodom and Gomorrah or that God rained down fire from heaven and destroyed them.”  I answered him, “I know that is what you believe.  But I do believe Adam and Eve were real people and that God did destroy Sodom with fire from heaven.”  The faces of the Methodist people form his congregation then changed.

  3.) I then asked, “Do you believe in the historical account of Jonah?”  He answered, “Well John, that’s really not important. My wife does, but I do not.  Again, it is an allegory.”  The answer from me to him was, “This puts anyone who believes that the story of Jonah is historical in a position to make a choice.  Do I believe this Methodist pastor who is teaching me that the story of Jonah is a was not a real story, or do I believe in the Lord Jesus who teaches me that the story of Jonah is a true historical story?  Our Lord Jesus teaches us in Matthew 12:40, “For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whales belly; so, shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.”  This makes me have to choose because one of you, either you or Jesus, is not telling the truth.  I happen to believe our Lord Jesus is telling the truth.  He tells us in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life …”  This is why many people have chosen to leave the Methodist religion and go to a Christ-centered and Bible-centered congregation.

  Then he responded by saying, “Pastor John, we need to put these things aside and work in citywide crusades for the community.”  My answer to him was, “You would probably be a very nice neighbor, but I could never join you in any type of crusade because our belief in the God of heaven and the Scriptures is totally different.  If anyone asks me if it is all right for them to attend your Methodist religion, I would advise them that a person can never become a true born-again believer following the teaching you just informed me that you believe.  And that they could never grow as a child of God as a member of your congregation.

  4.) I ended our visit by asking him, “As far as you know, how would you classify the ministers, district leaders, and bishops in your Methodist religion as far as being orthodox or liberal?”  Orthodox being Christ-centered and Bible-centered, — and liberal as believing as he did.

  His answer was, “Well there would actually be three groups: Bible and Christ-centered like you (me, John Barela), about one percent. Orthodox, like himself, 10 percent. (He classified himself as non-Bible-believing, and not believing that Jesus is God and the only way to heaven — as Orthodox.)  Then Liberal, a person who believes even less in the Bible and our Lord Jesus, 90 percent.  Bishops can be labeled as corrupt because they control so much money.”  To which I answered, “This seems to clear up everything we wanted to know.  It is evident that you do not believe exactly as I do like these members of your church thought.”  Now they knew exactly why many of their friends chose to leave the Methodist religion.

  5.) I asked him, “Do you believe in Hell as a final judgment?”  He quickly answered, “Oh no, I’m not one of those Jonathan Edwards types of preacher.”  My answer was, “I didn’t think so, but your members here told me that you did when I asked them if you did.”

  He answered, “Oh yes, I believe in Hell a little bit differently than you do.  When couples are going through a divorce, they are going through a type of Hell.”

  We ended on that note.

  The Methodist religion is not alone in its beliefs in Hell and the Bible.  Some denominations and well-meaning Christians believe that hell is a synonym for the grave.  They go to great lengths to prove that Hades, the grave, and hell are all the same things.  If so, why do so many Old Testament and New Testament writers under the guidance of the Holy Spirit make so much about the wages of sin and the eternal destruction of the soul in hell?  Let’s look at some of the scriptures that point to the fallacy of not believing that the penalty for not having Jesus Christ wash our sins away with His own shed blood is an eternal home in hell’s unquenchable fire.

  The word “hell’ appears 54 times in the Holy Bible.  Hell is clearly defined in your Bible as a place of torment and burning.  Only a fool who rejects what he reads would say hell is the grave or just separation from God.  But some denominations dismiss the concept of an eternal living hell, and those who try to make it a biblical metaphor say a loving God would not send anyone to such a place.  But is that true?  True, God is a loving God and He desires that ALL come to repentance and be saved.  God does not send anyone to hell.  It is YOUR choice.  C.S. Lewis summarizes this truth in his classic work, The Great Divorce: “There are only two kinds of people in the end: those who say to God, ‘Thy will be done,’ and those to whom God says in the end, ‘Thy will be done,’ All that are in Hell, choose it.”

  God does not send us to this place that our Lord Jesus spoke of where the worm dies not, nor fire quenched.  But YOU DO, out of your own self-will by rejecting a free offer of salvation found only in Jesus Christ you choose to live eternally in hell’s torment.

  “And if thy hand offend thee, cut if off:  it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:  Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.  And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:  Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.  And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.” (Mark 9:43-48)

 Jesus was obviously not advocating cutting off a member of your body, but He was making a point that if you live like the devil, you will make your home with him at the end of time.  He speaks of fire unquenchable and where the worm that eats your flesh, dies not.  Our Lord Jesus is quite literal here.

  Here we are speaking God’s Word to warn all who will listen about a place so horrible that I wouldn’t want my worst enemy to go there.  We are not here to scare you, but to warn you.  Realize that you are a flawed individual with a sin-filled past and born to sin as a nature of humanity.

 Our Lord Jesus spoke of this very fact in the lesson of the rich man and Lazarus.  When He spoke of the rich man and Lazarus being separated by a huge gulf and the rich man being in torment, was Jesus just telling a story?  Was He stretching the truth, just to make a point?  Let’s look at the passage.  This is our Lord Jesus speaking.

 “There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day.  And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores.  And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover, the dogs came and licked his sores.  And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died and was buried; And in hell he lifted up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.  And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.” (Luke 16:19-24)

  Notice that those in Paradise have names, such as Abraham and Lazarus… but the “rich man” is nameless, faceless, and so is anyone who rejects the free gift of salvation found in Jesus Christ alone (Could this person be you?)

  This place of the abode of the dead, encompassed hell and paradise, as the above verses speak of, but our Lord Jesus emptied Paradise when He was raised from the dead and those who were in Paradise were removed to the third heaven. (Ephesians 4:8-10) But hell and its torments are still there, as it has not been emptied yet.

  Did you know that below your feet are millions and millions and millions of souls crying, screaming, weeping, wailing, gnashing their teeth, and begging for a drop of water on their tongue because they are tormented without rest with fire and brimstone, and they know that they are not getting out?

  It’s not like it is here on the surface, but those who died without Jesus Christ as their Savior ended up there in a spiritual realm of separation from God and are in eternal torment.  Those who reject God’s provision will have to face the consequence of their own choice.  We can either receive Christ’s offer of forgiveness of our personal sins and receive His salvation — or we can reject it.  It’s your choice.

  The unmistakable teaching of the Bible is that all people, whether they are saved or lost, will exist eternally, in either heaven or hell.  True life or spiritual life does not cease when our fleshly bodies pass away in death.  Our souls will live forever, either in the presence of God in heaven if we are saved, or in punishment in hell if we reject God’s gift of salvation.

  God’s Word was designed and written as a love letter telling about God’s love for us, sending His only Begotten Son to die in our place, washing all of our sins away and clothing us with His righteousness.

 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.  He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:16-18)

  But take heart, my reader.  You don’t have to spend eternity in a devil’s hell and be cast into a “lake of fire” enduring torment and separation from God for all eternity.  You can choose the free offer of salvation and eternal life in heaven with Christ.

The Cross of Calvary

Are you in need of salvation?

  Are you ready to place your faith in Jesus Christ as your Savior and receive this free gift of eternal life?  If so, do it now.  There is no special prayer you must pray to do so.  Romans 10:9 says, “if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”  The following prayer is one way you might make this confession with your mouth:

  “Dear God, I realize I am a sinner and could never reach heaven by my own good deeds.  Right now, I place my faith in Jesus Christ as God’s Son who lived a sinless life, died in my place to cover my sinfulness, and rose from the dead to give me eternal life.  Please forgive me of my sins and help me to live for you.  Thank you for accepting me and giving me eternal life.”

  For more information on salvation, order the DVD “The Gospel — What it is and What it is Not.”  A foundational teaching for all believers, new or old alike.  It answers the question as to why God established the animal sacrifices that culminated in Jesus Christ the Savior.  It covers the fulfillment of the Passover Lamb in Jesus Christ.  It explains the difference between the law and grace.  You will better understand the cults who claim Christianity but do not accept the Gospel of His grace, which is the new covenant.

  An excellent evangelistic tool to reach those who are not yet believers but are seeking to understand what it means to be saved.  It is 1 hour 20 minutes long.

 To order this DVD for tax-deductible gift of $20 or more please contact John Barela at Today, The Bible & You at P.O. Box 1722, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma U.S.A. 74013 or please call him at (918) 279-1136.

Printed with permission of Today, The Bible & You located at P.O. Box 1722, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74013. the name of the original article in the February 2023 issue of Today’s Front Page was “Is There Life After Death?  Do people actually go to either eternal bliss in Heaven or an eternal Hell after death?” www.JohnBarela.com 

Where is AMERICA in End-Time Prophecy?

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Today, The Bible & You

Today’s Front Page

The Nation’s Christian Newspaper

June 2022

Where is AMERICA in End-Times Prophecy?

Torn American Flag

Understanding the meaning of Symbols and Types in Scripture reveals the amazing truth regarding America and its future role in world events.

 America, the greatest country the world has ever known, is described in key end-time Bible prophecy.  It makes sense that the most powerful and influential nation on earth will play a vital role in the final stunning events of the world’s closing history.

The Bible is a Spiritual Book written by God a Spiritual Being given by God the Holy Spirit to Spiritual People

 The USA was present in biblical prophecies all along.  Why weren’t they found?  God’s grace has sent me to share His precious message to more than sixty countries in the world.  In Russia, Asia, and Arab nations especially, they erroneously believe that Christianity is a Western Religion that began in Europe.  They were all amazed to discover that Biblical Christianity is Oriental (Eastern) — not Occidental (Western).  All the writers of the Old and New Testaments were Semites — descendants of Shem, one of the three sons of Noah.  Because the Bible is a spiritual book, it cannot be understood unless the Spirit of the Living God reveals it to them. This is why it is written in:

1st Corinthians 2--14 -- The Natural Man doesn't understand things of the Spirit of God

1st Corinthians 2:14, “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 

 Orientals are known for their lack of direct speech.  They convey what they want to say through parables, symbols, figures of speech, and the like.  Our Lord Jesus was born of a Semitic mother named Mary and parables were used by him.  It is written in Matthew 13:1-3.

Jesus teaching from a ship to the Multiples in his parables

 “The same day went Jesus out of the house and sat by the seaside.  And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore.  And he spoke many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow.”

 The interesting thing about the Sermon on the Mount as it is familiarity know, is that “the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?”  To which our Lord answered in Matthew 13:11, “Because it is given unto you (the disciples) to know the mysteries of the Kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.”

Daniel 12 verse 9 -- The Words are made secret and sealed up until the time of the End

 Moreover, some end-time prophecies were to be sealed until the time of the end.  This is what God clearly instructed the prophet Daniel. It is written in Daniel 12:8-9, “And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things?  And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the end.” 

When considering Daniel 7:5, one really does tend to see Russia in the symbolism.

Four Beasts in Daniel 7

 Daniel 7:5 “And behold another beast, a second, like a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh.”

Map of Russia

 “It raised up itself on one side” indicates the dominance the western half of Russia has regarding its immense geographical size, not to mention Russia’s influence upon Europe and the Middle East to its west and south.

 “It had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it” seems to describe a cooperative and/ or influence between Russia and three other countries, obviously with Russia dominating the agenda and manipulating the other three actors.

Is This the End of the Church Age

 God also uses Images and Symbols to make the future known — and recent events have clearly shown us that we are indeed at the time of the end of the church age when a huge change will soon occur. The Rapture of the born-again believers in Christ Jesus will be taken away, and the long-predicted leader of the world will appear on the scene for seven years.

Map of Ezekiel 38 -- Who Are the Powerful Players in the Gog and Magog War

 Many students of Scripture are familiar with the prophecy in Ezekiel 38-39 that tells us about the coming Russian invasion of Israel, along with Iran, Turkey, and others listed in Ezekiel 38. But does God have another item on the agenda for this Bear from the North?  Absolutely yes!

Daniel 7 vs. 5 -- A Bear with three Ribs in its Mouth

Let’s take a look at The Bear in Daniel who Represents Russia

 The bear in Daniel 7:5 is the second of the Four Beasts described in this chapter, (Daniel 7:2-8) “Daniel spake and said, I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove upon the great sea.  And four great beast came up from the sea, diverse one from another. The first was like a lion, and had eagle’s wings:  I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made to stand upon the feet as a man, and a man’s heart was given to it.  And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it; and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh.  After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it. After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it:  and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns.”

Four Beasts in Daniel chapter 7

 When we consider the lion with the eagle’s wings, this should come as no surprise that these beasts seem to be easily recognizable as England (British Empire) and the United States.

British Barbary Lion and British Flag Image

The Barbary Lion has been the national symbol of England since at least the Middle Ages.

Meet the Flying Bald Eagle -- United States of America National Emblem

 The Bald Eagle has been the national symbol of the United States since 1782, six years after the Declaration of Independence was signed.

A Lion with Eagle's Wings coming out of the Sea

 What’s amazing about this vision is the order. The lion is mentioned first “and had eagle’s wings.”  This confirms history as the United States was British Empire.  One can almost see the wings sprouting from the lion.

Artstation -- The Beast of the Apocalypse

 The second beast, this bear has in his mouth three ribs, and is with another beast like a leopard, with four wings of a fowl and the beast had four heads and dominion was given to it. This same image is given in Revelation 13:2-3, “And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.  And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.”

Russia's Coat of Arm's, Flag and Double-headed Eagle

 What’s very intriguing about the symbol of the bear for Russia is that it really isn’t their official national symbol — interestingly enough, the two-headed eagle is.  The symbol of the bear for Russia seems to have been given to them by the Western world. The bear was even considered as Russia’s national symbol as, accordingly to Wikipedia, the proposers of the idea noted, “Russia is anyway identified in the world with the Bear.” 

Brown Russian Bear and the Russion Flag

 Whether or not the bear is a symbol given to Russia on her own accord or given to her by other nations would seem to be irrelevant.  The fact is, to the world, the symbol of the bear has been bestowed upon the nation of Russia, with or without her consent.

United Nations Ferocious Beast Sculpture Statue in New York City, New York

 Amazingly, the sculpture of this same image here in Revelation 13, was on display in front of the United Nations Building last year (2021) saying that it was the Guardian for International Peace and Security.  They are accurately describing what the Bible is saying to us.

Time for NATO to Close its Doors with Flags of Member Nations in the background

 The body of the leopard in Revelation 13 represents Germany, with the feet of the bear representing the former old Soviet Eastern bloc nations and the mouth of a lion representing Great Britain.  Germany has been manufacturing Leopard battle tanks since 1965.  The eagles’ wings represent the United States.  The sculpture represents the current state of the NATO beast led by the United States. This NATO beast will suddenly have its eagle wings plucked off (we believe by the Bear).

 Some students of prophecy believe that the bear and the rider on the RED Horse in Revelation 6:4 are one and the same, “And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.”

What do the four horses of the Apocalypse Represent

 The bear is the national symbol of the Russian Federation and fiery red is the traditional national color of Russia.  Some believe the rider on the Red Horse (Russia) will kill the rider on the White Horse (which some believe refers to America who is somewhat of a peacekeeper in the world).  The great sword would represent Russia’s national nuclear arsenal.

America is Mystery Babylon with the United Nations Flag and the Statute of Liberty with a Nuclear Weapon Mushroom Cloud

 Many students of the Word of God believe that mystery Babylon in Revelation 18 represents the United States. As the prophet was told in Daniel 12:9 to, “. . .  Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.“

 This is precisely what we are witnessing unravel before our very eyes.  We are seeing what some believe is the imminent destruction of Mystery Babylon, which many believe refers to the United States.  An attempt was made back on September 11, 2001, to destroy a major symbol of America.

World Trade Center buildings Smoking and being Blasted-1

 On Tuesday, September 11, 2001, suicide attackers seized US passenger jets and crashed them into two New York skyscrapers, killing thousands of people.  The attack remains one of the most traumatic events of  the century, not only for Americans but also for the world.

Flighs Paths on September 11, 2001

 Four planes flying over the eastern US were seized simultaneously by small teams of hijackers.  They were then used as giant, guided missiles to crash into landmark buildings in New York and Washington.  Two planes struck the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York. 

The September 11, 2001 Attack on the Pentagon in Washington D.C.

 A third plane destroyed the western face of the Pentagon — the giant headquarters of the US military just outside the nation’s capital, Washington, DC.  The fourth plane crashed in a field in Pennsylvania at 10:03 a.m. After passengers fought back it is thought the hijackers had meant to attack the Capitol Building in Washington DC.

US Capital Building in Washington DC

 But God tells us in the Book of Revelation that the future demise of Mystery Babylon will only take ONE HOUR.  Mystery Babylon will FALL IN ONE HOUR. This could have never been fulfilled before, but as we will see, IT CAN BE FULFILED NOW. 

Nuclear Bomb Simulation Shows How Blast Would Destroy 24 US Cities

 The ONE HOUR FULFILLMENT is given to us by God in Revelation 18:1-19, “And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory.  And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.  For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed through the abundance of her delicacies….  For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.  Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double…  Therefore, shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her.  And the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication and lived deliciously with her, shall bewail her, and lament for her, when they shall see the smoke of her burning, standing afar off for the fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas that great city Babylon, that mighty city!  For in one hour is thy judgment come.  And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn over her; for no man buys their merchandise any more…  And the fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from thee, and all things which were dainty and goodly are departed from thee, and thou shalt find them no more at all.  The merchants of these things, which were made rich by her, shall stand afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing.  And saying, Alas, alas that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls!  For in one hour so great riches is come to naught.  And every shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade by sea, stood afar off.  And cried when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, What city is like unto this great city!  And they cast dust on their heads, and cried, weeping, and wailing, saying Alas, alas that great city, wherein were made rich all that had ships in the sea by reason of her costliness! for in one hour is she made desolate.”

 What is it that could cause such destruction IN ONE HOUR that is written of in verses 10, 17 and 19?  RUSSIA! 

Russian Hypersonic Cruise Missile and Hypersonic Glide Vehicle-1

 Russia was the first nation to develop the HYPERSONIC MISSILE.  Why the fear and hype about hypersonic missiles?  First, it’s important to understand the term.

 What military powers — including Russia, China, the United States and North Korea — are working on now is a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV).  An HGV is a highly maneuverable payload that can theoretically fly at hypersonic speed while adjusting course and altitude to fly under radar detection and around missile defenses.

Hypersonic Missiles Are Unstoppable Chart

 An HGV is the weapon that’s almost impossible to stop.  And Russia is thought to have an HGV in its arsenal, the Avangard system, which Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2018 called “practically invulnerable” to Western air defenses.

The Underside of a Russian Aircraft with one Hypersonic Missile on board

 A Russian Air Force MiG-31K jet carries a high-precision hypersonic aero-ballistic missile Kh-47M2 during the Victory Day military parade in Moscow, Russia on May 9, 2018.

 “The MiG-31K can strike from unpredictable directions and could avoid interception attempts altogether. The flying carrier vehicle might also be more survivable than the road-mobile Iskander system,” the report said.

 We are witnessing things that were predicted thousands of years ago. And God alerts us in Scripture about what we should do when we do see these things come to pass.   It is written in Luke 21:28, “And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.”

The Bride of Christ with words that say Look Up My friends for our Redemption draws near -- Luke 21 verse 28

 The Russian Bear is being backed into a corner by the hand of God Himself.  Russia has been as Pharaoh and Nebuchadnezzar were.

Isaiah 17 verse 1 scripture written over Damascus, Syria

What specific roles will Russia play in the near future?

 1.) Look for one strategic ally of Russia to be the first domino to fall, Syria.  Israel will fulfill this prophecy regarding Syria that is found in Isaiah 17:1, “The burden of Damascus.  Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap.” Damascus and Calcutta both claim to be the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. I have been blessed by my Creator to have visited both [Note: The Author of this original article in Today’s Front Page is Mr. John Barela.]

Damascus, Syria will Cease from being a City with a Nuclear Weapon Mushroom Cloud in the background

2.) With the fall of Syria, (which is not mentioned as one of the leagues of nations joined with Russia on its invasion of Israel in Ezekiel 38) — the Russian invasion of Israel will be the very next domino to fall.

Understanding the Battle of Gog and Magog -- The Coming Russian Invasion of Israel

3.) Just prior to its terrible defeat on this invasion of Israel, the Russian Bear will fulfill its role regarding Mystery Babylon in Revelation.

 All of this could find its fulfillment within the next year.  All of the right conditions are before us at this moment. 

Crosswalk.com -- What is the Rapture and When Will it Happen

 Somewhere along all of this, our Lord Jesus will fulfill another great promise to His followers given to us in John 14:2-3, “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you.  I go to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”

The Rapture -- 1st Thessalonians 4 -- 17 sign

 This is the Rapture when our Lord Jesus will return in the clouds and take all of the born-again believers to the place our Lord Jesus has been preparing for us.

Final 7 years of World History under the Leadership of AntiChrist Emmanuel Macron Power Point slides

 All of this will create the perfect condition for the world to be offered peace.  This is when the head of NATO (Antichrist) will offer a special peace treaty and Israel will accept.

2030 Second Coming of Jesus Christ -- 2023 to 2030 Tribulation -- 2016 to 2023 -- 7 Years of Plenty And he will make a firm Covenant with the many for One Week -- Daniel 9 verse 27

Daniel 9:27, “And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.”  A “week” here refers to a seven-year period of time.  In the “midst of the week” refers to the Antichrist entering the new Temple in Israel after the first three and one-half years of the tribulation and declaring that he is God. 

The AntiChrist at The Third Temple at The Abomination of Desolation

 This 7-year Peace treaty that will be signed will begin the much talked about Great Tribulation when all the world will be forced to take the mark of the beast.  After one-half of the world’s population is destroyed during these seven-years, the Lord Jesus will return to earth to destroy the enemies of God and establish His one-thousand-year kingdom on earth.

Second Coming of Christ with Church-Age Saints Return on White Horses

Revelation 19:11-21: “And I saw heaven opened and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth Judge and make war.  His eyes as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written that no man knew, but he himself.  And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.  And the armies which were in heaven followed him in upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it should smite the nations: and he shall rule the with a rod of Iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.  And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written. KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. . . And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army.  And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that worshipped his image.  These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.  And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh.”

Jerusalem will be Elevated in the Millennium Kingdom of Jesus Christ and King David

  Our Lord Jesus will rule the world from the city of Jerusalem and all the world will worship Him.  NO more wars, guns, or weapons of any kind.  No more cancer, hospitals or major diseases and people will live in their physical bodies to the ripe old age of 1,000 plus.  No more religious divisions as the entire world will worship the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Millennium -- Christ's Rule on Earth

 According to the prophesied signs, many of these things could be fulfilled within a YEAR — with the Second Coming of our Lord Jesus WITHIN TEN YEARS!  Look up and lift up your heads for your redemption draweth nigh.

A little girl with Blonde Hair looking up with Luke 21 verse 28 written next to her

Printed with permission of Today, The Bible & You located at P.O. Box 1722, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74013, Phone No. (918) 279-1136.  The name of the original article in the June 2022 issue of Today’s Front Page was “Where is AMERICA in End-Times Prophecy? www.JohnBarela.com