Sunday, September 4, 2016
Five Trumpets Have Sounded?
Are We Waiting For the Sixth Seal Opening?
2014 - Ken Raggio -- [excerpt] Trumpets were used throughout the history of the nation of Israel as an instrument for making announcements. Holy days were announced with trumpets. Trumpets gave the call to war. The sounding of a trumpet signified an important event. The 'Seven Trumpets' are seven major warnings from God.
John described seven trumpets that would sound prior to the second coming of Jesus Christ. I believe that the first five trumpets have already sounded, and the sixth is sounding even as I write this.
The seventh trumpet is the last trumpet, and will call saints of all ages to the first resurrection and rapture of the Church. Therefore, since the seventh trumpet is the rapture, all the others must occur before Jesus comes back. We should be able to identify the first six trumpets already. more
John described seven trumpets that would sound prior to the second coming of Jesus Christ. I believe that the first five trumpets have already sounded, and the sixth is sounding even as I write this.
The seventh trumpet is the last trumpet, and will call saints of all ages to the first resurrection and rapture of the Church. Therefore, since the seventh trumpet is the rapture, all the others must occur before Jesus comes back. We should be able to identify the first six trumpets already. more
8-24-16, Kevin Mirasi [excerpt] -- The Opening of the Fifth Seal signified and signifies martyrdom. This has already started to take shape, especially the slaughter (The Throat Slaughter) by the Islamic terror groups in Kenya Al-Shabaab and I.S.I.S who paraded blind-folded Believers in The LORD Jesus Christ, particularly in the Middle East (Iraq, Syria, Libya e.t.c).
3-13-16, Carl Gallups -- “The sixth trumpet vision (found in Revelation 9:13-21)
speaks of a great war, bigger than anything the world has seen to date. The
prophecy declares that this war will take place in the area of the Euphrates River
– in the veritable heart of the Middle East. Bible students sometimes
refer to the war of the sixth trumpet vision as The Coming World War III.
“This ‘coincidence’ is simply too large to ignore. The Euphrates River begins in the mountains of northern Turkey and runs down through Syria, then through Iraq
and into the Persian Gulf. This entire area just happens to be the current hotbed
of the geopolitical focus of the world and the main stomping grounds of ISIS.
These particular nations along the Euphrates, and the ones that surround them,
are all major players in today’s terror climate and Middle East upheaval.”
speaks of a great war, bigger than anything the world has seen to date. The
prophecy declares that this war will take place in the area of the Euphrates River
– in the veritable heart of the Middle East. Bible students sometimes
refer to the war of the sixth trumpet vision as The Coming World War III.
“This ‘coincidence’ is simply too large to ignore. The Euphrates River begins in the mountains of northern Turkey and runs down through Syria, then through Iraq
and into the Persian Gulf. This entire area just happens to be the current hotbed
of the geopolitical focus of the world and the main stomping grounds of ISIS.
These particular nations along the Euphrates, and the ones that surround them,
are all major players in today’s terror climate and Middle East upheaval.”
The Sixth Seal will be Opened very soon; watch out for historic:
Excerpted and adapted full original message here
- mega earthquake (s)
- cosmic (Stellar, Astronomical, Planetary, Solar) disturbance in the sky leading to historic meteor showers upon the earth. Asteroids hitting the earth, Darkness upon the Earth.
- Tectonic Plate movement of the Continents
- Polar Shifts - the GPS system and the Electromagnetic Communication systems will be affected, leading to a Global Electric Shock
Excerpted and adapted full original message here
Franklin Graham: America's New Enemies Are 'Progressives' and 'Godless Secularism'
In Boston on Tuesday, Rev Franklin Graham said that he and the attendees prayed for God's forgiveness and for the healing of America, as he also encouraged Christians to run for office and vote in the coming elections. He mentioned earlier that Boston is known as the "cradle of liberty" due to its historical connections to the The American Revolutionary War. "In 1775, Paul Revere's famed signal lanterns hung from the Old North Church steeple to warn that the enemy was coming. I'm not hanging lanterns, but I am going state to state warning the people of our nation about the enemy. The enemy is not the British today, but godless secularism and people who call themselves progressives who are undermining the morals and the God-given biblical foundation that our Founding Fathers gave this nation. These foundations are under attack, and the election coming up is so critical for America's future." Excerpt full original article here
Grafted Into Christ
Jesus said, "Abide in Me and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself,
except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me... the same
bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing." John 15:4-5
except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me... the same
bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing." John 15:4-5
8-31-16, Pastor Charles Stanley -- A vine dresser plants and tends his vines for the purpose of seeing them produce grapes. God, as our vine dresser, encourages us to bear spiritual fruit. He wants us to have a character like that of Christ—marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22-23). Our Father wants to ensure that believers will be fruitful; for this reason, they are removed from the dead tree of humanity and grafted onto the living vine, Jesus Christ.
When we become believers [when we repent of our sins and are born again], God sends the Helper, the Holy Spirit, to indwell us. In the language of vineyards, the sap from the vine flows into a grafted branch, giving it life and the capacity to grow the kind of fruit typical of that plant. The branch and the vine become one life; we draw 'nourishment' from the Lord Jesus [Col. 2:7].
Some people run away from the Christian life because they think they cannot do it. And they’re right: They cannot, but the Holy Spirit can.
That doesn’t mean we are free from responsibility — the Spirit can do His work only as we wisely choose to yield to Him. When we are obediently following the Lord, our joy and peace are not dependent upon circumstances; the One in whom we are rooted is our power, joy and peace.
When we become believers [when we repent of our sins and are born again], God sends the Helper, the Holy Spirit, to indwell us. In the language of vineyards, the sap from the vine flows into a grafted branch, giving it life and the capacity to grow the kind of fruit typical of that plant. The branch and the vine become one life; we draw 'nourishment' from the Lord Jesus [Col. 2:7].
Some people run away from the Christian life because they think they cannot do it. And they’re right: They cannot, but the Holy Spirit can.
That doesn’t mean we are free from responsibility — the Spirit can do His work only as we wisely choose to yield to Him. When we are obediently following the Lord, our joy and peace are not dependent upon circumstances; the One in whom we are rooted is our power, joy and peace.
Showing the Way of Salvation
“The same [a demon-possessed servant girl] followed Paul and us,
and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God,
which shew unto us the way of salvation.” (Acts 16:17)
8-30-16, John D. Morris -- Paul and Luke first witnessed to European unbelievers in Philippi and saw them wonderfully converted (v. 14), but a young “soothsayer” continually interrupted them, mocking and interfering. Paul cast out the controlling spirit of divination (v. 18), denying her owners their source of income. In retribution, they convinced the city leaders to have them brutally flogged and thrown into the innermost prison (v. 24).
But God had other plans. A mighty earthquake seemingly freed them, causing the jailer to prefer suicide rather than face capital charges for his “offense.” Paul intervened, and the jailer desperately pled, “What must I do to be saved?” (v. 30).
What would cause a Roman official in a decidedly pagan culture, who had heard little (if anything) of the truth, to abruptly turn to God for salvation? Certainly the earthquake had captured his attention, as had Paul’s behavior through his trail and abuse, but what made him think the truth was with Paul? Why did he ask for salvation from an incarcerated prisoner?
Perhaps during the trial he had heard of the slave girl’s testimony. In our text she had exclaimed, “These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.” Was this ringing testimony, given in derision but heard nonetheless, involved in his decision?
We can’t know for sure, but we do know that this was the introduction of the gospel to Europe. Surely God’s ultimate plan can be seen in the events at Philippi that day. Even the unknowing truth from a demonic soothsayer contained lasting truth. Christians should never hesitate to declare gospel truth, for God will not allow it to go unheeded (Isaiah 55:11). JDM
and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God,
which shew unto us the way of salvation.” (Acts 16:17)
8-30-16, John D. Morris -- Paul and Luke first witnessed to European unbelievers in Philippi and saw them wonderfully converted (v. 14), but a young “soothsayer” continually interrupted them, mocking and interfering. Paul cast out the controlling spirit of divination (v. 18), denying her owners their source of income. In retribution, they convinced the city leaders to have them brutally flogged and thrown into the innermost prison (v. 24).
But God had other plans. A mighty earthquake seemingly freed them, causing the jailer to prefer suicide rather than face capital charges for his “offense.” Paul intervened, and the jailer desperately pled, “What must I do to be saved?” (v. 30).
What would cause a Roman official in a decidedly pagan culture, who had heard little (if anything) of the truth, to abruptly turn to God for salvation? Certainly the earthquake had captured his attention, as had Paul’s behavior through his trail and abuse, but what made him think the truth was with Paul? Why did he ask for salvation from an incarcerated prisoner?
Perhaps during the trial he had heard of the slave girl’s testimony. In our text she had exclaimed, “These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.” Was this ringing testimony, given in derision but heard nonetheless, involved in his decision?
We can’t know for sure, but we do know that this was the introduction of the gospel to Europe. Surely God’s ultimate plan can be seen in the events at Philippi that day. Even the unknowing truth from a demonic soothsayer contained lasting truth. Christians should never hesitate to declare gospel truth, for God will not allow it to go unheeded (Isaiah 55:11). JDM
Trouble When the Philistines Placed the Lord's Ark
in Their Temple Near Dagon Image
We learn from the Holy Bible's Old Testament that the enemies of Israel;
the Philistines, took the Ark of the Lord placing near their idol "Dagon" .. the
idol fell off it's pedestal and the second time it's head broke off ... 1 Samuel 5:1-4
the Philistines, took the Ark of the Lord placing near their idol "Dagon" .. the
idol fell off it's pedestal and the second time it's head broke off ... 1 Samuel 5:1-4
Israel Was Visited in 1867 By Mark Twain;
He Said It Was a Wasteland
Isn’t it curious that 100 years ago, nobody wanted the land of the Jews ... Israel. In 1867 when Mark Twain visited; he found it to be a malaria-infested, deserted wasteland. He said, "It is a desolate country whose soil is rich enough, but is given over wholly to weeds… a silent mournful expanse…. a desolation…. we never saw a human being on the whole route…. hardly a tree or shrub anywhere. Even the olive tree and the cactus, those fast friends of a worthless soil, had almost deserted the country.”
Before 1948 when the Jewish people again fully populated their land of Israel, it truly was a God-forsaken land until her rightful owners turned that 'wasteland' into a bountiful fruitful paradise as God intended it to be. Now the Muslims [aka Palestinians] are claiming it's theirs; and the ignorant wicked world leaders [Obama] want Israel to give up land AGAIN which would be suicide for the Jewish state. more
Before 1948 when the Jewish people again fully populated their land of Israel, it truly was a God-forsaken land until her rightful owners turned that 'wasteland' into a bountiful fruitful paradise as God intended it to be. Now the Muslims [aka Palestinians] are claiming it's theirs; and the ignorant wicked world leaders [Obama] want Israel to give up land AGAIN which would be suicide for the Jewish state. more
The Hoary Head [White Hair]
8-22-08, Tom Moore -- We are living in a day when a great many young people/adults have little or no respect for the “hoary” (”grey” – NKJ) headed our number. Yet, the Bible teaches very plainly that we are to have great respect for those blessed in years. If our world would respect and listen to the wisdom of those who are in the twilight of life, our world would be a much better place to live.
The Bible unequivocally pronounces, “Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and
honor the face of the old man, and thou shalt fear thy God: I am Jehovah.” Lev 19:32
Even Solomon, king in Israel, honored and showed respect to his aged mother. Concerning this the Bible says, “Bathsheba therefore went unto king Solomon, to speak unto him for Adonijah. And the king rose up to meet her, and bowed himself unto her, and sat down on his throne, and caused a throne to be set for the king’s mother; and she sat on his right hand” (1 Kings 2:19).
Solomon also said, “Hearken unto thy father that begat thee,
And despise not thy mother when she is old ” (Pro. 23:22).
Great lamentation was heard in Israel because “the faces of elders were not honored” (Lam. 5:12). Paul said that children are to “to requite [or, repay – NKJ] their parents: for this is acceptable in the sight of God” (1 Tim. 5:4) - one way this can be done is through honor and respect.
The older need to be honored as teachers of youth (Tit. 2:1-5).
Paul knew of the value of mothers and grandmothers, for Eunice and Lois taught Timothy the Holy Scriptures from his youth (2 Tim. 1:5; 3:15). We must always honor the older because the “multitude of years should teach wisdom” (Job. 32:7).
What is our responsibility to the “hoary head?” Solomon said, “The hoary head is a crown of glory; It shall be found in the way of righteousness” (Pro. 16:31), and “Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, And despise not thy mother when she is old” (Pro. 23:22). Thus, we must respect, esteem and honor our seniors of life.
We must provide for them, “if any provideth not for his own, and specially his own household, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever” (1 Tim. 5:8). David pleaded, “Cast me not off in the time of old age; Forsake me not when my strength faileth” (Psa. 71:9). Too many children have forsaken their parents when they have gotten old. Too many have ignored our elderly brethren. These attitudes and actions defy the commands of God.
The hoary headed ones of our number have responsibilities as well. The responsibility of not retiring from the work of the Lord (Rev. 2:10). They must be willing to share their wisdom and knowledge (1 Kings 12:6-12). They must be willing to set good examples for the youth (Tit. 2:2-5). And they must never be ashamed of their age (Pro. 16:31).
There are great blessings in old age.
“The righteous shall flourish like the palm-tree: He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. They are planted
in the house of Jehovah; They shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring
forth fruit in old age; They shall be full of sap and green.” (Psa. 92:12-14)
The Bible unequivocally pronounces, “Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and
honor the face of the old man, and thou shalt fear thy God: I am Jehovah.” Lev 19:32
Even Solomon, king in Israel, honored and showed respect to his aged mother. Concerning this the Bible says, “Bathsheba therefore went unto king Solomon, to speak unto him for Adonijah. And the king rose up to meet her, and bowed himself unto her, and sat down on his throne, and caused a throne to be set for the king’s mother; and she sat on his right hand” (1 Kings 2:19).
Solomon also said, “Hearken unto thy father that begat thee,
And despise not thy mother when she is old ” (Pro. 23:22).
Great lamentation was heard in Israel because “the faces of elders were not honored” (Lam. 5:12). Paul said that children are to “to requite [or, repay – NKJ] their parents: for this is acceptable in the sight of God” (1 Tim. 5:4) - one way this can be done is through honor and respect.
The older need to be honored as teachers of youth (Tit. 2:1-5).
Paul knew of the value of mothers and grandmothers, for Eunice and Lois taught Timothy the Holy Scriptures from his youth (2 Tim. 1:5; 3:15). We must always honor the older because the “multitude of years should teach wisdom” (Job. 32:7).
What is our responsibility to the “hoary head?” Solomon said, “The hoary head is a crown of glory; It shall be found in the way of righteousness” (Pro. 16:31), and “Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, And despise not thy mother when she is old” (Pro. 23:22). Thus, we must respect, esteem and honor our seniors of life.
We must provide for them, “if any provideth not for his own, and specially his own household, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever” (1 Tim. 5:8). David pleaded, “Cast me not off in the time of old age; Forsake me not when my strength faileth” (Psa. 71:9). Too many children have forsaken their parents when they have gotten old. Too many have ignored our elderly brethren. These attitudes and actions defy the commands of God.
The hoary headed ones of our number have responsibilities as well. The responsibility of not retiring from the work of the Lord (Rev. 2:10). They must be willing to share their wisdom and knowledge (1 Kings 12:6-12). They must be willing to set good examples for the youth (Tit. 2:2-5). And they must never be ashamed of their age (Pro. 16:31).
There are great blessings in old age.
“The righteous shall flourish like the palm-tree: He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. They are planted
in the house of Jehovah; They shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring
forth fruit in old age; They shall be full of sap and green.” (Psa. 92:12-14)
Sanctification: God's Grand Plan
8-27-16, Pastor Charles Stanley -- The heavenly Father has a grand plan for the life of every person, and it can be summed up with the word sanctification. If you have never been certain of the term’s meaning, you are not alone—many people are unclear about its definition and application. However, believers should understand it because the word applies to them.
In its verb form--sanctify—the term means “to make holy” or “to separate.” So when something is sanctified, it is separated from its former common usage and is dedicated for sacred purposes. The Old Testament mentions a number of things that the Lord sanctified: He made the seventh day holy, set aside the Levite tribe as priests, and even consecrated places like the Holy of Holies inside the tabernacle (Gen. 2:3; Num. 3).
The heavenly Father still sanctifies people today. Before a person places faith in Jesus Christ, he or she is spiritually dead and, in fact, an enemy of God (Eph. 2:1-3; Rom. 5:10). But the moment the choice is made to trust in Jesus Christ, sins are wiped away, and the individual is adopted into God’s family—set apart as a child of God, with a sacred purpose. This means believers aren’t here to chase after personal gain but are to serve the Lord and bring Him honor and glory.
As members of God’s family who are called upon to reflect His glory, believers are referred to as “saints.” We’re given this moniker—which shares its root with sanctification—not because we live sinless lives, but because we live a life consistent with the One we represent.
In its verb form--sanctify—the term means “to make holy” or “to separate.” So when something is sanctified, it is separated from its former common usage and is dedicated for sacred purposes. The Old Testament mentions a number of things that the Lord sanctified: He made the seventh day holy, set aside the Levite tribe as priests, and even consecrated places like the Holy of Holies inside the tabernacle (Gen. 2:3; Num. 3).
The heavenly Father still sanctifies people today. Before a person places faith in Jesus Christ, he or she is spiritually dead and, in fact, an enemy of God (Eph. 2:1-3; Rom. 5:10). But the moment the choice is made to trust in Jesus Christ, sins are wiped away, and the individual is adopted into God’s family—set apart as a child of God, with a sacred purpose. This means believers aren’t here to chase after personal gain but are to serve the Lord and bring Him honor and glory.
As members of God’s family who are called upon to reflect His glory, believers are referred to as “saints.” We’re given this moniker—which shares its root with sanctification—not because we live sinless lives, but because we live a life consistent with the One we represent.
Cheering Abortion: Pro-Choice Advocates Praise Killing, While Tearing Down Women
8-26-16, CNS.NEWS-- Watching the audience at the Democratic National Convention last month cheer for Ilyse Hogue, the president of NARAL, an abortion rights organization, was horrific. They cheered because they saw abortion, like she did, as the next step on the ladder of independence, and educational and career advancement. A child was casually suctioned and torn apart because they were a hindrance for their mother – and the audience cheered like it was some sort of WWE faux-wrestling match!
Looking back on ancient cultures of the past that engaged in ritual child sacrifice or threw women and children into the Coliseum for entertainment, we are rightly horrified and smugly thankful that civilization has advanced past such barbarism; but we are also sacrificing the child for our own personal gratification or 'independence' ... aren't we?
Looking back on ancient cultures of the past that engaged in ritual child sacrifice or threw women and children into the Coliseum for entertainment, we are rightly horrified and smugly thankful that civilization has advanced past such barbarism; but we are also sacrificing the child for our own personal gratification or 'independence' ... aren't we?
A recent study from the University of North Carolina revealed that “voluntary infanticide,” (a.k.a. abortion) and not heart disease is the leading cause of death among African Americans and Hispanics ...
The Lord God is watching ... The murder of these innocents will not go unpunished. More
The Lord God is watching ... The murder of these innocents will not go unpunished. More
Deadly 6.2 Mag Earthquake in Italy: 281 Deaths
Nearly 1,000 aftershocks have rocked the area straddling the regions of Umbria, Marche and Lazio in the central Apennine mountains since the original quake in the early hours of Wednesday, Aug 24, 2016. Reuters and more
Russia New Anti Terrorism Law & Evangelism
8-26-16, Since Russian President, Vladimir Putin, signed a new Anti- Terrorism Law into effect, news reports and social media postings have sounded the alarm that Russia is outlawing Evangelism! However, there is little reason to assume that this Anti-Terrorism Law is designed to harass, or persecute, Bible-believing Christians. There have been violent terrorist attacks by radical Muslim groups within Russia and this new Anti-Terrorism Law is primarily targeted towards those promoting Jihad.
Religious Toleration Not Equality
International pressure for Russia to recognize Islam, Judaism and Buddhism as traditional religions of Russia have been rejected. This has been considered by some Westerners as a threat to religious freedom. However, all religions are tolerated in Russia, even as Orthodox Christianity is recognized as the national religion. What critics do not take into account is: How is Russia’s position any more serious than that of Poland, which has Roman Catholicism as the national religion and Israel having Judaism as the state religion? Certainly secularism in the USA is infinitely more hostile to Christianity in schools and the public marketplace, than the Russian government’s position.
Rejecting Secularism
Russians reject Western secularism and consumerism. There is a tremendous revulsion against the excesses of cults, sects, the health and wealth, prosperity gospel, and the vulgar sensationalism of Western tele-evangelists. And of course there is tremendous concern for the volatile mosques which, in many cases, have promoted Islamic Jihad [war]. From our communications with Russian believers, this seems to be the primary focus of the new Anti-Terrorism Law.
Russia's president Vladimir Putin said: “First and foremost we should be governed by common sense. But common sense should be based on moral principles first. And it is not possible today to have morality separated from religious values." He has authorized state expenditure of hundreds-of-millions of dollars to rebuild churches destroyed during the Soviet era, to print Bibles to make available in every hotel room, appointed chaplains in the military and attended church services regularly. In Russia today, 200 churches are being built.
Syria: When Eastern Orthodox Church requested Pres Putin to provide protection for the Christian minority protected by Bashar-al-Assad’s regime in Syria, he mobilized the Russian military to decisively deal with the ISIS terrorist threat and prevented the fall of Syria to these Islamic Jihadists.
Russia as a Christian Nation
Most Russians are highly critical and cautious about the immorality that has become so routinely accepted in the West. The Russian government is self-consciously embracing and applying the pro-life, pro-family and moral ethical principles of Orthodox Christianity.
“Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the Word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you, and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith.” 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2
Dr. Peter Hammond is a Christian Missionary -- here
Religious Toleration Not Equality
International pressure for Russia to recognize Islam, Judaism and Buddhism as traditional religions of Russia have been rejected. This has been considered by some Westerners as a threat to religious freedom. However, all religions are tolerated in Russia, even as Orthodox Christianity is recognized as the national religion. What critics do not take into account is: How is Russia’s position any more serious than that of Poland, which has Roman Catholicism as the national religion and Israel having Judaism as the state religion? Certainly secularism in the USA is infinitely more hostile to Christianity in schools and the public marketplace, than the Russian government’s position.
Rejecting Secularism
Russians reject Western secularism and consumerism. There is a tremendous revulsion against the excesses of cults, sects, the health and wealth, prosperity gospel, and the vulgar sensationalism of Western tele-evangelists. And of course there is tremendous concern for the volatile mosques which, in many cases, have promoted Islamic Jihad [war]. From our communications with Russian believers, this seems to be the primary focus of the new Anti-Terrorism Law.
Russia's president Vladimir Putin said: “First and foremost we should be governed by common sense. But common sense should be based on moral principles first. And it is not possible today to have morality separated from religious values." He has authorized state expenditure of hundreds-of-millions of dollars to rebuild churches destroyed during the Soviet era, to print Bibles to make available in every hotel room, appointed chaplains in the military and attended church services regularly. In Russia today, 200 churches are being built.
Syria: When Eastern Orthodox Church requested Pres Putin to provide protection for the Christian minority protected by Bashar-al-Assad’s regime in Syria, he mobilized the Russian military to decisively deal with the ISIS terrorist threat and prevented the fall of Syria to these Islamic Jihadists.
Russia as a Christian Nation
Most Russians are highly critical and cautious about the immorality that has become so routinely accepted in the West. The Russian government is self-consciously embracing and applying the pro-life, pro-family and moral ethical principles of Orthodox Christianity.
“Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the Word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you, and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith.” 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2
Dr. Peter Hammond is a Christian Missionary -- here
God’s Tools for Making Us Holy
8-26-16, Pastor Charles Stanley -- Sanctification is the process God uses to conform believers to the image of His Son. The writers of Scripture used word pictures that speak of the Father’s shaping work in the life of His saints. Isaiah, for example, compared the Lord to an artist making pottery: “We are the clay and You our potter; and all of us are the work of Your hand” (Isa. 64:8). These are some of the tools He utilizes to mold and perfect His creations:
The Bible. The psalmist described God’s Word as “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Ps. 119:105). The Holy Spirit illuminates what we read so that we can come under conviction and grow in our faith.
The Church. As part of Christ’s body, we learn of God’s ways from the pastors and teachers who have been called to minister. The Father also calls His children to fellowship together (Heb. 10:25), in part so He can use them in each other’s sanctification process. Not only that, but there are Christians at church who will encourage their brothers and sisters in times of trouble or hold them accountable when they miss the mark.
Suffering. God freely offers us solace and help during times of difficulty, but He also uses our painful circumstances to shape us. When we submit to Him, we emerge from our struggles looking more Christlike than ever before. From the moment a person places trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, God’s transforming work of sanctification will be ongoing throughout his or her life. As children of the King, we should long to glorify our Father by faithfully reflecting Him. To do that, we must yield to His tools of sanctification.
The Bible. The psalmist described God’s Word as “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Ps. 119:105). The Holy Spirit illuminates what we read so that we can come under conviction and grow in our faith.
The Church. As part of Christ’s body, we learn of God’s ways from the pastors and teachers who have been called to minister. The Father also calls His children to fellowship together (Heb. 10:25), in part so He can use them in each other’s sanctification process. Not only that, but there are Christians at church who will encourage their brothers and sisters in times of trouble or hold them accountable when they miss the mark.
Suffering. God freely offers us solace and help during times of difficulty, but He also uses our painful circumstances to shape us. When we submit to Him, we emerge from our struggles looking more Christlike than ever before. From the moment a person places trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, God’s transforming work of sanctification will be ongoing throughout his or her life. As children of the King, we should long to glorify our Father by faithfully reflecting Him. To do that, we must yield to His tools of sanctification.
Tough Skin and Christianity
8-23-16. Bill Wilson -- One of the purposes of The Daily Jot is to equip readers with a Biblical perspective on a current event so they are able to use it as encouragement to evangelize. That you are able to see an event from a Biblical lens and speak intelligently with the facts about it to someone is certainly a form of evangelization.
Jesus said in Matthew 5:13, "You are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men."
[..snip] Being a Christian takes tough skin. Just read how the apostles, watchmen, and prophets were treated. As you speak out on the issues of the day from a Biblical perspective, be an Ephesians 6 person-speak boldly as you ought to speak, and having done all, stand! Be encouraged!
Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!
Bill Wilson
Excerpted full original message here:
8-23-16. Bill Wilson -- One of the purposes of The Daily Jot is to equip readers with a Biblical perspective on a current event so they are able to use it as encouragement to evangelize. That you are able to see an event from a Biblical lens and speak intelligently with the facts about it to someone is certainly a form of evangelization.
Jesus said in Matthew 5:13, "You are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men."
[..snip] Being a Christian takes tough skin. Just read how the apostles, watchmen, and prophets were treated. As you speak out on the issues of the day from a Biblical perspective, be an Ephesians 6 person-speak boldly as you ought to speak, and having done all, stand! Be encouraged!
Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!
Bill Wilson
Excerpted full original message here:
Women of the Bible - Deborah & Jael
:8-25-16, God has recorded the history of many notable and praiseworthy
women in His Book. Modern day women can learn from them. -- Annette
Deborah - There was only one woman Judge in Israel; she was married to Lapidoth. She was involved with leading the Israel army; there's no mention of her being involved with actual sword fighting. There is some controversy about why she was not listed in Hebrews 11; the "Faith Hall of Fame" arguing that she wasn't the real judge and Barak was as there shouldn't be a woman judge. However, the book of Judges only refers to Deborah as the judge to whom the word of the Lord came (Judges 4:4, 6). Deborah had complete religious, political, judicial and militaristic authority over the people of Israel and essentially was commander-in-chief.
During this time there was an enemy of Israel named Sisera who was to be taken down by Barak; but Barak said, NO not unless you go with me, Deborah! She said, 'Okay I'll go and a woman will take him down!' [my paraphrasing--Annette]
Jael - At Mt Tabor Sisera was ready to fight, but Barak and his men were making mincemeat of them so Sisera ran away [coward]. He ran into a woman's tent pleading for water, Jael soothed him with milk [4:19] and she laid down and went to sleep. [big mistake!] Jael seizing the moment, took a big tent nail hammering it with such force into his skull, he was fastened to the ground and died.
"Deborah, a prophetess, judged Israel. She dwelt under the palm between Ramah and Bethel in mount
Ephraim: and the children of Israel came to her for judgment." Judges 4:4-5 "Blessed above women
shall Jael the wife of Heber the Kenite be, blessed shall she be above women in the tent. At her
feet Sisera bowed, there he was dead." Judges 5:25,27
women in His Book. Modern day women can learn from them. -- Annette
Deborah - There was only one woman Judge in Israel; she was married to Lapidoth. She was involved with leading the Israel army; there's no mention of her being involved with actual sword fighting. There is some controversy about why she was not listed in Hebrews 11; the "Faith Hall of Fame" arguing that she wasn't the real judge and Barak was as there shouldn't be a woman judge. However, the book of Judges only refers to Deborah as the judge to whom the word of the Lord came (Judges 4:4, 6). Deborah had complete religious, political, judicial and militaristic authority over the people of Israel and essentially was commander-in-chief.
During this time there was an enemy of Israel named Sisera who was to be taken down by Barak; but Barak said, NO not unless you go with me, Deborah! She said, 'Okay I'll go and a woman will take him down!' [my paraphrasing--Annette]
Jael - At Mt Tabor Sisera was ready to fight, but Barak and his men were making mincemeat of them so Sisera ran away [coward]. He ran into a woman's tent pleading for water, Jael soothed him with milk [4:19] and she laid down and went to sleep. [big mistake!] Jael seizing the moment, took a big tent nail hammering it with such force into his skull, he was fastened to the ground and died.
"Deborah, a prophetess, judged Israel. She dwelt under the palm between Ramah and Bethel in mount
Ephraim: and the children of Israel came to her for judgment." Judges 4:4-5 "Blessed above women
shall Jael the wife of Heber the Kenite be, blessed shall she be above women in the tent. At her
feet Sisera bowed, there he was dead." Judges 5:25,27
Abigail the Woman With Beauty and Brains
8-23-16 -- There was a very rich man named Nabel; his wife was Abigail, she was intelligent and beautiful inside and out. One day the mean and nasty Nabal was busy shearing his 3000 sheep while David was in the wilderness. David heard of Nabal's shearing and offered to give him protection, for needed supplies. However, when Nabal was visited by David's men seeking their payment, Nabal refused saying, "Who is David the son of Jesse?" and refused to give them anything.
When David was informed of Nabal's insult, he was furious and set out with his 400 warriors to kill Nabal and all his household. Abigail knew that David was justified in asking for compensation as he had protected them; so she interceded. Quickly she prepared alot of food and drink, loaded the pack animals set out to save her family [not telling Nabal]. She met David half way pleading with him not to harm her house saying, "Let not my lord, I pray thee, regard this man of Belial, even Nabal: for as his name is, so is he; Nabal is his name, and folly is with him." [1 Samuel 25:25]
David relented and appreciated that he was stopped from shedding blood and blessed her.
When Abigail got home Nabal was having a party and was drunk so she didn't tell him what had happened with David until the next day. When Nabal heard how he had angered David and what almost happened ... ten days later he fell down and died.
When David heard that the smart and lovely Abigail was an available widow, he made hast to make her his bride. 1 Samuel 25:1-42
SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Baptism Is Not For Babies
8-16-16, Pastor Charles Stanley -- Christ began His public ministry with baptism. At the time, John the Baptist was calling people to confess their sins and publicly demonstrate repentance through baptism by immersion in the river.
Why Baptism cannot be of little babies. They can't confess their sins; they can't know Who Jesus is and what He's done for them and they can't turn their lives over to Him. They must be of
the age of accountability.
All the people from Jerusalem, Judaea and all the region round
about Jordan, went out to John the Baptist confessing their sins
and were baptized of him in Jordan River. Matthew 3:5-6
Even Jesus went to John for baptism; and as Christians, we're called to follow Jesus' example in all things. Baptism by immersion is important as it is a public profession of our faith and our connection with the Lord. As He was willing to identify Himself with us, we - at our baptism - publicly identify with Him. It is a symbolic way of declaring, "I have trusted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and believe that the debt of my sin is fully paid through His sacrificial death on the cross. I believe that as He rose from the dead, and through Him, I will be resurrected to spend eternity with Him in glory."