Matthew 24:36-44 (Jesus speaking, con't)
"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.
"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you must also be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.
(Some manuscripts do not have ‘nor the Son’. I don’t know if it is the older manuscripts or the newer that omit ‘nor the Son’ – wish I did know that little detail…but the NIV footnote doesn’t’ specify.)
I grew up (from age 8 to +-22) in a Pentecostal Church. I heard lots of views on prophecy. Many of them stated that the Christians would be removed from the earth in the rapture before the awful stuff happened. Others believed it would be half way through the 7 year tribulation. I don't recall ever hearing someone speak who thought Christians would live through all of it....
I found end times prophecy to be fascinating...and sometimes fear-filled. I wanted to grow up, fall in love, marry, and have a family before Jesus returned. I remember praying God would wait until I had that chance. 'When I was a child, I thought as a child, spoke as a child....'
Now, of course, I realize that some generation will be interrupted....why not mine....
Looking at Matthew 24: 29-35 again, it sounds like Jesus return to gather those who believe in him is going to be after some pretty severe distress. I don't know exactly how it will play out - God doesn't need me to know - He just needs me to trust him. All I know is he said it - and it will come to pass. Some things are easy to see how they might play out - others are not.
And that segues perfectly into today's verses. No one knows the day or the hour. No one who prophesies a specific day is right. There is a lot of talk about the Mayan calendar,and that it ends on December 21, 2012 - 12-21-2012. Anyone who is interested can explore and gather all kinds of information on the internet. They are conjectures. And - serve no purpose.
What we are told to do is pay attention to the general signs. We need to know what to expect so we aren't deceived, and we need to live intentionally every day, knowing it could be our last. When 9/11 happened in 2001, I asked the Lord if it was 'the end', and he clearly told me: "Keep on keeping on. Occupy until I come." He hasn't changed his mind about those directions - and has only confirmed that message with other subsequent encouragement to 'persevere'.
It is easy to get deterred and bogged down - - but his directive is clear. We are to see the signs of our time as a warning - a head's up - pray for those who have not accepted him and follow him closely. It's hard not to be distracted.
Earlier this week I wrote a list of God's priorities for my life. Sometimes in working toward those specifics there are challenges - big challenges - but I believe with all my heart that God gives us the desire and ability to do his good pleasure - and that as we follow more closely, we learn to set aside all of the encumbrances. I'm learning - and leaning on his grace!
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Thursday, June 17, 2010
END TIMES PROPHECY: Matthew 24:29-35
Matthew 24:29-35 (Jesus speaking)
“Immediately after the distress of those days
“ ‘the sun will be darkened,
and the moon will not give its lights;
and stars will fall from the sky,
and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’
“At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.
“Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you will know it is near, right at the door. I tell you the truth, this generation (or race) will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.
Yesterday’s warning was that false Christs and false prophets will come – and immediately after that we have this warning.
Jesus quotes the following prophecies in Isaiah about the end of the age:
Isaiah 13:10
The stars of heaven and their constellations
Will not show their light.
The rising sun will be darkened
And the moon will not give its light.
And
Isaiah 34:4
All the stars of the heavens will be dissolved
And the sky rolled up like a scroll;
All the starry host will fall
Like withered leaves from the vine,
Like shriveled figs from the fig tree.
Isaiah was written about 700 years before Jesus (Yeshua) the Messiah was born. And in Jesus’ words recorded for us in Matthew 24, he quotes Isaiah.
The NIV states that the angels will be sent with a loud trumpet call – but, more technically I believe it will be the sound of a shofar. Just my opinion!
For today, these are words to consider. We need the next segment of verses…and this is enough for today!
In our comparison of what Islam, Judaism and Christianity teach, another ‘similarity’ listed is that the final Judgment will be announced with the trumpet of an archangel.
Judaism: A shofar will announce the beginning of the messianic era, gather the scattered exiles, and serve as a summons to the heavenly court on the Day of Judgment.
Christianity: Matthew 24:31: “And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.”
Islam: Qu’ran 36:51 “And the trumpet shall be blown, and lo! They shall speed out of their sepulchers to their Lord:”
The miniscule amount I know about Muslims and Islam has only been learned in the last few years – literally since 2006. I assume most Americans are as ignorant as I am. I know that assuming is dangerous – but I have no reason to believe otherwise….
I will address that more later – but for now, I have grandkids to hug….. They just walked in the door!
“Immediately after the distress of those days
“ ‘the sun will be darkened,
and the moon will not give its lights;
and stars will fall from the sky,
and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’
“At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.
“Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you will know it is near, right at the door. I tell you the truth, this generation (or race) will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.
Yesterday’s warning was that false Christs and false prophets will come – and immediately after that we have this warning.
Jesus quotes the following prophecies in Isaiah about the end of the age:
Isaiah 13:10
The stars of heaven and their constellations
Will not show their light.
The rising sun will be darkened
And the moon will not give its light.
And
Isaiah 34:4
All the stars of the heavens will be dissolved
And the sky rolled up like a scroll;
All the starry host will fall
Like withered leaves from the vine,
Like shriveled figs from the fig tree.
Isaiah was written about 700 years before Jesus (Yeshua) the Messiah was born. And in Jesus’ words recorded for us in Matthew 24, he quotes Isaiah.
The NIV states that the angels will be sent with a loud trumpet call – but, more technically I believe it will be the sound of a shofar. Just my opinion!
For today, these are words to consider. We need the next segment of verses…and this is enough for today!
In our comparison of what Islam, Judaism and Christianity teach, another ‘similarity’ listed is that the final Judgment will be announced with the trumpet of an archangel.
Judaism: A shofar will announce the beginning of the messianic era, gather the scattered exiles, and serve as a summons to the heavenly court on the Day of Judgment.
Christianity: Matthew 24:31: “And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.”
Islam: Qu’ran 36:51 “And the trumpet shall be blown, and lo! They shall speed out of their sepulchers to their Lord:”
The miniscule amount I know about Muslims and Islam has only been learned in the last few years – literally since 2006. I assume most Americans are as ignorant as I am. I know that assuming is dangerous – but I have no reason to believe otherwise….
I will address that more later – but for now, I have grandkids to hug….. They just walked in the door!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
END TIMES PROPHECY: Matthew 24:23-28
It would be human and natural for me to be diverted today, but I think staying the course is the better choice....but on the human side - I am grappling with a huge challenge, and praying for God's intervention and grace.... I need to see trouble as an opportunity and ask God what He is trying to teach me through it....
Matthew 24:23-28 is the designated segment of scripture for today.
"At that time if anyone says to you, 'Look,here is the Christ!' or, 'There he is!' do not believe it. For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect - - if that were possible. See, I have told you ahead of time.
"So, if anyone tells you, 'There he is out in the desert', do not go out; or, 'Here he is in the inner rooms', do not believe it. For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather...."
The first thing that leaps out to me is to be alert and aware that Jesus is not coming to earth again in such an innocuous way that we will be confused. He is coming in power and in glory. My understanding is that he is gathering those who believe in him first - in what we refer to as 'The Rapture' - - which is not a term in the Bible...and then, other events unfold before his ultimate 'Second Coming.'
But, his actions are not contingent on my understanding - and that is the point of this journey - to search out what the Bible says and seek to hear what God has to say to me - and to others in this process of consideration - about what he wants us to know at this juncture in our journey. My experience with God is that he is always on time - but rarely early. In other words, he discloses tidbits and allows our eyes to be opened to what he has always known, in layers. He doesn't need us to know it all in advance - but in retrospect we see what he said, and our rear-view vision is clear. The beauty in that is that it envelops us with Trust. Over and over we have been able to see that what he promised, he did. And, we know that what is still to be fulfilled, he will also do. We can have absolute confidence in that!
Not everyone is a prophet. Not everyone has their eyes opened to be able to be on the frontlines of sharing the knowledge of His ever-unveiling truth of things to come. I do not have an expectation of being that messenger, but I do want him to be my teacher - and I am willing to share the perspectives I have along the way. And - I believe that when there are those who do speak what he has revealed to them, his Spirit witnesses with our Spirit. That is why it is so critical to keep that relationship with God intact - so we can hear what it is he is saying accurately.
We certainly have seen false prophets - and currently with the political correctness that has swept our world, those who have been deceived and are caught up in tickling the ears of those whose ears they have sway over. Jesus warning to us is, "Do not be deceived - even if they perform miracles." He has clearly prescribed the way he will come, and this isn't it....
The most important messages I can convey today are: God knows what he is doing, and will reveal it as he chooses;
and
Test everything by His Word. If what is 'revealed' doesn't line up with what His Word says, it isn't true. It can sound good - it can even be part-truth - - but he is TRUTH - 100% - and there is no fault in him - - no supposition, no maybe, no if. It is very important to keep that clearly in mind....
When I was a youth leader I told the kids: "Challenge everything I say. Test it by God's Word."
There are many 'blind guides' - - and many endearing, lovely people who just follow blindly, never reading their Bible, never searching out Truth from the One who is Truth. The Bible is the plumb line. It preceded all of the -isms and their writings. Anything that doesn't line up with God's Word is a lie. A scary, deceiving lie. And - Galatians 1:8 warns us about that. The point of that verse is very clear: even if angels come and tell us something other than what God's Word says, we are not to fall for the lie. There is only one gospel - one Truth - one Good News - and it is that Jesus Christ came to earth to purchase our salvation by His blood shed for our sin as the ultimate sacrifice.
The Bible is the plumb line. God's Word is Truth. Some of it has yet to be revealed - but it is true. We have to begin with that as the premise to have a Biblical view of what will come....
For the next tidbit on the comparison of the 3 major religions: all believe that there will be signs preceding judgment day. Surprising to me is that the chart I am using for my information states that the teaching of Islam is that one of the signs is that the Jews will be gathered together. They believe there will be a final battle between the Muslims and the Jews. It cites that the Quran/ Koran tells a revised edition of the battle of Gog & Magog - a war the Bible predicted long before the Koran was ever drafted.
Satan wraps his lies in truth. Buyer beware! Even the very elect are at risk if we aren't careful to keep our plumb line plumb.
Matthew 24:23-28 is the designated segment of scripture for today.
"At that time if anyone says to you, 'Look,here is the Christ!' or, 'There he is!' do not believe it. For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect - - if that were possible. See, I have told you ahead of time.
"So, if anyone tells you, 'There he is out in the desert', do not go out; or, 'Here he is in the inner rooms', do not believe it. For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather...."
The first thing that leaps out to me is to be alert and aware that Jesus is not coming to earth again in such an innocuous way that we will be confused. He is coming in power and in glory. My understanding is that he is gathering those who believe in him first - in what we refer to as 'The Rapture' - - which is not a term in the Bible...and then, other events unfold before his ultimate 'Second Coming.'
But, his actions are not contingent on my understanding - and that is the point of this journey - to search out what the Bible says and seek to hear what God has to say to me - and to others in this process of consideration - about what he wants us to know at this juncture in our journey. My experience with God is that he is always on time - but rarely early. In other words, he discloses tidbits and allows our eyes to be opened to what he has always known, in layers. He doesn't need us to know it all in advance - but in retrospect we see what he said, and our rear-view vision is clear. The beauty in that is that it envelops us with Trust. Over and over we have been able to see that what he promised, he did. And, we know that what is still to be fulfilled, he will also do. We can have absolute confidence in that!
Not everyone is a prophet. Not everyone has their eyes opened to be able to be on the frontlines of sharing the knowledge of His ever-unveiling truth of things to come. I do not have an expectation of being that messenger, but I do want him to be my teacher - and I am willing to share the perspectives I have along the way. And - I believe that when there are those who do speak what he has revealed to them, his Spirit witnesses with our Spirit. That is why it is so critical to keep that relationship with God intact - so we can hear what it is he is saying accurately.
We certainly have seen false prophets - and currently with the political correctness that has swept our world, those who have been deceived and are caught up in tickling the ears of those whose ears they have sway over. Jesus warning to us is, "Do not be deceived - even if they perform miracles." He has clearly prescribed the way he will come, and this isn't it....
The most important messages I can convey today are: God knows what he is doing, and will reveal it as he chooses;
and
Test everything by His Word. If what is 'revealed' doesn't line up with what His Word says, it isn't true. It can sound good - it can even be part-truth - - but he is TRUTH - 100% - and there is no fault in him - - no supposition, no maybe, no if. It is very important to keep that clearly in mind....
When I was a youth leader I told the kids: "Challenge everything I say. Test it by God's Word."
There are many 'blind guides' - - and many endearing, lovely people who just follow blindly, never reading their Bible, never searching out Truth from the One who is Truth. The Bible is the plumb line. It preceded all of the -isms and their writings. Anything that doesn't line up with God's Word is a lie. A scary, deceiving lie. And - Galatians 1:8 warns us about that. The point of that verse is very clear: even if angels come and tell us something other than what God's Word says, we are not to fall for the lie. There is only one gospel - one Truth - one Good News - and it is that Jesus Christ came to earth to purchase our salvation by His blood shed for our sin as the ultimate sacrifice.
The Bible is the plumb line. God's Word is Truth. Some of it has yet to be revealed - but it is true. We have to begin with that as the premise to have a Biblical view of what will come....
For the next tidbit on the comparison of the 3 major religions: all believe that there will be signs preceding judgment day. Surprising to me is that the chart I am using for my information states that the teaching of Islam is that one of the signs is that the Jews will be gathered together. They believe there will be a final battle between the Muslims and the Jews. It cites that the Quran/ Koran tells a revised edition of the battle of Gog & Magog - a war the Bible predicted long before the Koran was ever drafted.
Satan wraps his lies in truth. Buyer beware! Even the very elect are at risk if we aren't careful to keep our plumb line plumb.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
STEPPING ASIDE FOR A DAY
The past six weeks I've been a participant in a Womens Bible Study written by Jennifer Rothschild. The study is titled WALKING BY FAITH: Lessons Learned In The Dark. Jennifer became blind at age 15. She is a gifted speaker, and her lessons learned in 'the dark' are significant lessons. Most of her lessons are reminders of lessons I've already 'learned' but I certainly needed the refresher course.... We never arrive at a pinnacle of perfection where we no longer need to learn or need a refresher course.
This morning I'm briefly stepping off the path of my current Eschatological pursuit to address the blessing of the lesson(s) I just studied. I am incredulous at God's timing - once again!
This morning in my prayer time I specifically asked God to help me focus on the reality that He is enough - to celebrate HIM, and not His gifts. To worship the Giver, and not be focused on answers I want....
Then today's lesson responded specifically to those cries of my heart. He knows I have patiently waited for Him to work out some difficult details in life.... In addition, he searches the very recesses of my heart and today He found a little root of pain that is a seed for potential bitterness that needed to be weeded out. It was long enough ago that I hadn't thought about it for quite awhile. It was an injustice against me for which I wanted resolution and vindication.
Today - I choose to forgive and lay it as His feet. If the reminder surfaces again, I will forgive again. I am not responsible for my emotions - but I am responsible for my responses and actions. Forgiveness is a choice - just like love is a choice. They are action words not emotion words in the spiritual realm. There are other unresolved issues. I can only do what He asks of me - but the results are up to Him. My choice is to forgive. My choice is in response to His demand. Forgiveness is not optional. It's not a done deal - I will keep working on it - but it is freeing. He asks us to forgive for our benefit - not just the other person's benefit....
In today's lesson, Jennifer led us back to the very roots of salvation, and the truths they proclaim - and the reminder that confession is the beginning of restoration for Christian health.
Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
Romans 6:23 The wage of sin is (eternal) death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Romans 5:8 While we were still sinners, Christ died for us
Romans 10:9-10 If we confess with our mouth and believe in our heart...we will be saved
She referenced Romans 5:6-11 - but I shortened it to the one I memorized back in college when I first learned these verses in Romans as 'The Royal Roman Road'. They are good verses for going back to our roots. Finding perfect peace in His reconciliation. Being reminded to cast our cares on Him, because He truly does care for us.... Forgiveness is so freeing....both His forgiveness granted to us - and our forgiveness of others.
In September, 2000, the two books of the Bible that I read while I was recuperating from an oophorectomy were Job and Revelation. Talk about unlikely 'comfort' reading in an already difficult time! But - it was the perfect time for God to teach me. What I learned from Job was that God deserves our praise and worship no matter what our circumstances. We absolutely are not to hold Him hostage to our agendas or dilemmas. He deserves praise! He is the Lord of Glory, the Great I AM, the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.... He is GOD! Yet, He says He inhabits the praises of His people. We are compelled to praise. No matter what life dishes out.
Praise also frees us!
From Revelation I learned a couple of significant things. Number one, I learned that Revelation 3:20 was not a salvation verse - it was God speaking to a church - to believers, telling them he longed for an intimate, nurturing relationship. "I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice, I will come in. I will eat with you - and you with me."
And - regarding the end times prophecies - I learned that all I needed was to trust Him. It was not time for me to pursue anything deeper. I just had to know that He is in charge, holds all of life and time and governments in His very capable hands - and that He would reveal whatever He needed to reveal to me on a 'need to know basis'. It is a topic that can divert too much time - and it is so fraught with pitfalls for voicing too many opinions that aren't God's view, but our own. Back when I was young and very curious about End Times Events and what was to come, I heard so many points of view regarding the timing of the rapture of the church, and whether it was going to be pre-trib, mid-trib, or post-trib. The trib meaning tribulation. Ultimately I just decided 'God knows and that's all I need to know'. I still believe that. Throwing myself on His mercy also frees me.
I am just so incredibly grateful for GOD - - for knowing Him, and finding His mercy and love so prevalent and available.
So - I will continue the End Times review - but I realize it will be just that - a review - and it will be up to the Holy Spirit to open the eyes of our understanding in His time. I find peace in that.
For today, I'm just going to mention one more similarity listed in the Prophecy Comparison I mentioned yesterday. With regard to the resurrection of the body, Islam, Judaism and Christianity all agree on the bodily resurrection. Islam even teaches that all will assemble at the Mount of Olives to receive judgment! I certainly don't know much about Islam. That's the point of finding out!
Housework is calling! God bless your day!
This morning I'm briefly stepping off the path of my current Eschatological pursuit to address the blessing of the lesson(s) I just studied. I am incredulous at God's timing - once again!
This morning in my prayer time I specifically asked God to help me focus on the reality that He is enough - to celebrate HIM, and not His gifts. To worship the Giver, and not be focused on answers I want....
Then today's lesson responded specifically to those cries of my heart. He knows I have patiently waited for Him to work out some difficult details in life.... In addition, he searches the very recesses of my heart and today He found a little root of pain that is a seed for potential bitterness that needed to be weeded out. It was long enough ago that I hadn't thought about it for quite awhile. It was an injustice against me for which I wanted resolution and vindication.
Today - I choose to forgive and lay it as His feet. If the reminder surfaces again, I will forgive again. I am not responsible for my emotions - but I am responsible for my responses and actions. Forgiveness is a choice - just like love is a choice. They are action words not emotion words in the spiritual realm. There are other unresolved issues. I can only do what He asks of me - but the results are up to Him. My choice is to forgive. My choice is in response to His demand. Forgiveness is not optional. It's not a done deal - I will keep working on it - but it is freeing. He asks us to forgive for our benefit - not just the other person's benefit....
In today's lesson, Jennifer led us back to the very roots of salvation, and the truths they proclaim - and the reminder that confession is the beginning of restoration for Christian health.
Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
Romans 6:23 The wage of sin is (eternal) death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Romans 5:8 While we were still sinners, Christ died for us
Romans 10:9-10 If we confess with our mouth and believe in our heart...we will be saved
She referenced Romans 5:6-11 - but I shortened it to the one I memorized back in college when I first learned these verses in Romans as 'The Royal Roman Road'. They are good verses for going back to our roots. Finding perfect peace in His reconciliation. Being reminded to cast our cares on Him, because He truly does care for us.... Forgiveness is so freeing....both His forgiveness granted to us - and our forgiveness of others.
In September, 2000, the two books of the Bible that I read while I was recuperating from an oophorectomy were Job and Revelation. Talk about unlikely 'comfort' reading in an already difficult time! But - it was the perfect time for God to teach me. What I learned from Job was that God deserves our praise and worship no matter what our circumstances. We absolutely are not to hold Him hostage to our agendas or dilemmas. He deserves praise! He is the Lord of Glory, the Great I AM, the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.... He is GOD! Yet, He says He inhabits the praises of His people. We are compelled to praise. No matter what life dishes out.
Praise also frees us!
From Revelation I learned a couple of significant things. Number one, I learned that Revelation 3:20 was not a salvation verse - it was God speaking to a church - to believers, telling them he longed for an intimate, nurturing relationship. "I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice, I will come in. I will eat with you - and you with me."
And - regarding the end times prophecies - I learned that all I needed was to trust Him. It was not time for me to pursue anything deeper. I just had to know that He is in charge, holds all of life and time and governments in His very capable hands - and that He would reveal whatever He needed to reveal to me on a 'need to know basis'. It is a topic that can divert too much time - and it is so fraught with pitfalls for voicing too many opinions that aren't God's view, but our own. Back when I was young and very curious about End Times Events and what was to come, I heard so many points of view regarding the timing of the rapture of the church, and whether it was going to be pre-trib, mid-trib, or post-trib. The trib meaning tribulation. Ultimately I just decided 'God knows and that's all I need to know'. I still believe that. Throwing myself on His mercy also frees me.
I am just so incredibly grateful for GOD - - for knowing Him, and finding His mercy and love so prevalent and available.
So - I will continue the End Times review - but I realize it will be just that - a review - and it will be up to the Holy Spirit to open the eyes of our understanding in His time. I find peace in that.
For today, I'm just going to mention one more similarity listed in the Prophecy Comparison I mentioned yesterday. With regard to the resurrection of the body, Islam, Judaism and Christianity all agree on the bodily resurrection. Islam even teaches that all will assemble at the Mount of Olives to receive judgment! I certainly don't know much about Islam. That's the point of finding out!
Housework is calling! God bless your day!
Monday, June 14, 2010
ESCHATOLOGY/ End Times Prophecy Matthew 24:15-22
Matthew 24:15-22 (Jesus speaking:)
“So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination that causes desolation’ spoken of through the prophet Daniel – let the reader understand – then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let no one on the roof of the house go down to take anything out of the house. Let no one in the field go back to get his cloak. How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers! Pray that your flight will not take place in winter or on the Sabbath. For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now – and never to be equaled again. If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened….”
Daniel 9:27
Daniel 11:31
Daniel 12:11
I have mentioned Bible Gateway before – but I will mention it again. It makes searching for verses so much easier…. If you haven’t checked it out I encourage you to do that – just type in Bible Gateway in your search on the internet.
I have a slight dilemma. I’m not ready to dive into Daniel yet – but I do want to get through all of Matthew 24 (in chewable doses).
My NIV Study Bible notes provide the following insight: In 168 B C Antiochus Epiphanes erected a pagan altar to Zeus on the sacred altar in the temple of Jerusalem. That was a layer that had already occurred, but which is linked to the future.
The warning about a great distress unequaled from the beginning of the world until now – alerts us to the reality that this prophecy is layered.
The temple in Jerusalem was destroyed in 70 A D. The persecution that occurred at that time was horrible…but it did not fulfill all of Daniel’s prophecies – and it didn’t fulfill the final layer of Jesus’ prophecies about the end of time. Jesus was answering both the question of what would occur when the temple would be torn down – and a far more distant question of what the signs would be alerting his followers to the ‘end of the age.’
To keep that in perspective, we must remind ourselves that we view time differently than God does. Jesus’ coming was the beginning of the end of the age…. It ushered in a new era – one in which men have the chance once again to accept or reject the One True God – just as Adam and Eve did….
In the days of the Diaspora when Christians were so severely persecuted, the persecution forced them to flee – and in fleeing they shared the gospel everywhere they went. The witness to the Truth arose out of conflict and persecution. It occurs to me as I write this morning that ‘Jesus as Christ’ being preached to all nations, as we considered in the last segment of Matthew, may be accomplished the same way.
Man has a longing for peace – but true peace is peace with God. In our journey as faithful followers, to represent God’s love accurately, we have to speak Truth – speak it in love – be prepared to give an answer – walk holding tight to His hand, for we cannot do it in our own strength.
…choose….this day whom you will serve (Joshua 24:15). It is a reminder that is going to follow us throughout the coming days….
We’ll get back to this text when we look at Daniel…. Until then, I’m going to leave it as a carrot….
I am in the early stages of reading an excellent book. It is filling in lots of blanks for me – and at this point for where I am in the book, is particularly informative about the United States’ role, influence and failed responsibility with regard to the Jews – and what we could have done to prevent the holocaust. It is information I have never been exposed to before. It is compelling. I will refer to it later, but for now it is definitely an eye-opener….
And, I’m following through on my quest to learn more about Muslim beliefs. I’ll share a tidbit of that with you today. There is an Eschatology Comparison on Contender Ministries that is titled, ‘Muslim, Jewish and Christian End-Times Prophecy Comparison’.
It begins with similarities. The first similarity topic is: The Purpose of Christ’s Coming. [Please note:I find the first ‘similarity’ terribly dissimilar!] It says that Islam teaches that Isa (Jesus) didn’t die, but has been in a state of suspended animation since 33 A D – that he will return to battle and overthrow ‘all pigs’ and confirm Islam as the only true religion. After 40 years, he will then die and be buried next to Muhammed in Medina. (Not!) O K – I’m just supposed to be ‘reporting’ for this bit – not editorializing. I can’t help it!
In this segment it states that Judaism teaches that Messiah will defeat the gentile nations and restore the kingdom of Israel. The Jews in exile will return and rule in an age of spiritual harmony. God will be recognized as the universal King.
Note: they do not acknowledge that Yeshua (Jesus) is the Messiah. They have always been looking for the Messiah to come as a vanquishing warrior – so they missed him the first visit. Could that account at least in part for why so many were deceived initially by Mohammed. He came as that warrior.
Anyway – Biblical Christians don’t disagree with the reality of all God has planned for His chosen people, Israel – but we do know that will be Jesus’ Second Coming when all of that occurs – not his first.
Christianity confirms that Jesus will come again, that he will rescue Israel miraculously, and that he will rule for one thousand years from His throne in Jerusalem.
But first – there is some prophecy yet to be fulfilled….
When I told you sometime back about Jesus appearing in a dream to an Algerian Muslim, I explained that Jesus identified himself as Isa al Masih. That translates: Jesus the Messiah. It is important to note the distinction. Islam refers to Jesus as Isa. He is in their writings – but only as a prophet, not as the One he proclaimed Himself to be. He is Isa al Masih – Jesus the Christ. He identifies himself in every language in the mother tongue of the people he is proclaimed to. Isa is Jesus – but the Isa they tell about it not represented by God’s definition. That is important to note….
Every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Yeshua – Isa – Ioseos - Yesu – Jesu – Jesus is the Meshiach, Masih, Messiah, the Christ, Cristo, Cristos….
And it may be soon!
“So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination that causes desolation’ spoken of through the prophet Daniel – let the reader understand – then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let no one on the roof of the house go down to take anything out of the house. Let no one in the field go back to get his cloak. How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers! Pray that your flight will not take place in winter or on the Sabbath. For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now – and never to be equaled again. If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened….”
Daniel 9:27
Daniel 11:31
Daniel 12:11
I have mentioned Bible Gateway before – but I will mention it again. It makes searching for verses so much easier…. If you haven’t checked it out I encourage you to do that – just type in Bible Gateway in your search on the internet.
I have a slight dilemma. I’m not ready to dive into Daniel yet – but I do want to get through all of Matthew 24 (in chewable doses).
My NIV Study Bible notes provide the following insight: In 168 B C Antiochus Epiphanes erected a pagan altar to Zeus on the sacred altar in the temple of Jerusalem. That was a layer that had already occurred, but which is linked to the future.
The warning about a great distress unequaled from the beginning of the world until now – alerts us to the reality that this prophecy is layered.
The temple in Jerusalem was destroyed in 70 A D. The persecution that occurred at that time was horrible…but it did not fulfill all of Daniel’s prophecies – and it didn’t fulfill the final layer of Jesus’ prophecies about the end of time. Jesus was answering both the question of what would occur when the temple would be torn down – and a far more distant question of what the signs would be alerting his followers to the ‘end of the age.’
To keep that in perspective, we must remind ourselves that we view time differently than God does. Jesus’ coming was the beginning of the end of the age…. It ushered in a new era – one in which men have the chance once again to accept or reject the One True God – just as Adam and Eve did….
In the days of the Diaspora when Christians were so severely persecuted, the persecution forced them to flee – and in fleeing they shared the gospel everywhere they went. The witness to the Truth arose out of conflict and persecution. It occurs to me as I write this morning that ‘Jesus as Christ’ being preached to all nations, as we considered in the last segment of Matthew, may be accomplished the same way.
Man has a longing for peace – but true peace is peace with God. In our journey as faithful followers, to represent God’s love accurately, we have to speak Truth – speak it in love – be prepared to give an answer – walk holding tight to His hand, for we cannot do it in our own strength.
…choose….this day whom you will serve (Joshua 24:15). It is a reminder that is going to follow us throughout the coming days….
We’ll get back to this text when we look at Daniel…. Until then, I’m going to leave it as a carrot….
I am in the early stages of reading an excellent book. It is filling in lots of blanks for me – and at this point for where I am in the book, is particularly informative about the United States’ role, influence and failed responsibility with regard to the Jews – and what we could have done to prevent the holocaust. It is information I have never been exposed to before. It is compelling. I will refer to it later, but for now it is definitely an eye-opener….
And, I’m following through on my quest to learn more about Muslim beliefs. I’ll share a tidbit of that with you today. There is an Eschatology Comparison on Contender Ministries that is titled, ‘Muslim, Jewish and Christian End-Times Prophecy Comparison’.
It begins with similarities. The first similarity topic is: The Purpose of Christ’s Coming. [Please note:I find the first ‘similarity’ terribly dissimilar!] It says that Islam teaches that Isa (Jesus) didn’t die, but has been in a state of suspended animation since 33 A D – that he will return to battle and overthrow ‘all pigs’ and confirm Islam as the only true religion. After 40 years, he will then die and be buried next to Muhammed in Medina. (Not!) O K – I’m just supposed to be ‘reporting’ for this bit – not editorializing. I can’t help it!
In this segment it states that Judaism teaches that Messiah will defeat the gentile nations and restore the kingdom of Israel. The Jews in exile will return and rule in an age of spiritual harmony. God will be recognized as the universal King.
Note: they do not acknowledge that Yeshua (Jesus) is the Messiah. They have always been looking for the Messiah to come as a vanquishing warrior – so they missed him the first visit. Could that account at least in part for why so many were deceived initially by Mohammed. He came as that warrior.
Anyway – Biblical Christians don’t disagree with the reality of all God has planned for His chosen people, Israel – but we do know that will be Jesus’ Second Coming when all of that occurs – not his first.
Christianity confirms that Jesus will come again, that he will rescue Israel miraculously, and that he will rule for one thousand years from His throne in Jerusalem.
But first – there is some prophecy yet to be fulfilled….
When I told you sometime back about Jesus appearing in a dream to an Algerian Muslim, I explained that Jesus identified himself as Isa al Masih. That translates: Jesus the Messiah. It is important to note the distinction. Islam refers to Jesus as Isa. He is in their writings – but only as a prophet, not as the One he proclaimed Himself to be. He is Isa al Masih – Jesus the Christ. He identifies himself in every language in the mother tongue of the people he is proclaimed to. Isa is Jesus – but the Isa they tell about it not represented by God’s definition. That is important to note….
Every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Yeshua – Isa – Ioseos - Yesu – Jesu – Jesus is the Meshiach, Masih, Messiah, the Christ, Cristo, Cristos….
And it may be soon!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
ESCHATOLOGY - Matthew 24:9-14
Last time we considered the 'beginning of birth pains'. Today, we move on to the next few verses in Matthew's gospel:
Matthew 24:9-14 (Jesus speaking to his followers)
"Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come...."
Just let me say, this is not my favorite passage in the Bible. I take it to heart - and take it personally - but what his hearers would have heard when he said this matters. We have to look at context in addition to application. Both apply.
His hearers were Jewish. We certainly see evidence throughout history of how our Jews have been treated - the holocaust being just one significant example. Taking it personally for the gentile world who follow Christ - Christians are being killed every day for their standing firm in their faith. A conservative estimate says that 450 Christians are killed every day, while others are burned, beaten, and otherwise severely persecuted.
Type 'Christians being martyred' into your search (I used Google) and you can watch videos on youtube that speak louder than any words I can write. I watched the first one that was listed....it was heartbreaking and compelling. It told of a 10 year old boy who was instructed to gather wood for a fire - and when he wouldn't deny his faith he was thrown on the fire and left to die. He escaped - but with severe burns. Another story was of a 16 year old girl who went away to camp - and on the 2nd day was attacked and threatened with broken glass....
For me to be faced with death is one thing - for my grandchildren to be faced with the same choice is overwhelming.
It makes Matthew 10:22 (repeated in Matthew 24:13) more significant: All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. This is not seeker-friendly Christianity. This is the real deal.
This is not being hated because of anything we've done but just because of people's hatred for Christ in us. Hatred for the One who died for their salvation as well as ours. Hatred that comes from Satan himself. It is almost incomprehensible. I'm not fond of being hated. I've experienced just enough of a hint of it that I know I don't like it. My automatic reaction is to want clarity - to want to explain - to want equity - to want vindication. I'm going to need God's grace....
Next on the list is that many will turn from the faith and betray and hate each other. It is pure logic that unless someone is very well grounded in their faith, they are not going to stand up for something they aren't absolutely certain of. Many will fall into that category. And - there will be those who will be threatened with pain who will identify others who are Christian - probably believing their persecutors that things will go easier for them.... Hatred comes in lots of packages. Hatred is simply any act or emotion that wishes another person dead - even for our convenience. It doesn't have to be virulent, seething animosity to be classified as hatred.
'Many false prophets will appear and deceive many people' is the next on the list. I covered a bit of that on the wading in day. Two of the larger -isms that affect me personally. I have a Muslim family I love dearly. I have Mormon relatives I love and want to know the Truth.
Jim Jones and his compound at Jamestown,British Guyana; David Koresh and the Branch Davidians; The Aryan Nations aka The Church of Jesus Christ-Christian of North Idaho, The Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, who was set up in Antelope, Oregon. These are just a few in my day. Any church or religion that does not place Jesus in His rightful role - the ONE who is the Messiah - the only Messiah - who came in the flesh, fully God and fully human. Any teacher or preacher who says there is any other way to God than through the shed blood of Jesus Christ - all fit into the list of those who deceive.... In our day it includes the plethora of preachers who have soft-soaped and watered down the Word of God to make it more appealing. All I know is: if I am standing at the business end of an AK-47, I want to know that the One I believe in is going to be there as I am ushered in to eternity - and I want Him to give me the courage to be faithful no matter what....
Having said that, living for Him faithfully in a world littered with spiritual land-mines is a daily challenge for all who seek to follow Him. Sometimes it is harder to 'live' faithfully than it would be to face death. We are challenged to do both.
The increase of wickedness....next on the list....and because of it the love of most will grow cold. We face that onslaught of risk every day: there is so much to distract us and divert our attention. Every one of us is at risk for succumbing to the diversions. It takes being very intentional in our faith to maintain focus and proper perspective. When I see all that is 'in the world' today - I wonder how God can stand it - how He can delay His coming to set it all right. He created the world to be beautiful - and we humans have corrupted it - from what we are doing to the earth itself - to what we are doing to ourselves in polluting our minds and bodies with sensual overload. God must weep. We become desensitized.
And finally, the good news in this portion of prophecy: the good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the world....
Because of the explosion of technological advances, that is now possible in a way never before conceived. People all over the world - even those who are illiterate - have i-pods and the potential to have satellite internet. Connecting with the world is easier every day.
We have this little window of opportunity to speak to the nations: to tell them that Jesus Christ, Yeshua ha Meshiach, Isa al Masih, Jesu Cristo, came to seek and save that which was lost.
It is a little bit frightening - but even more than that, it is compelling. In our going we are to disciple. To build relationships. To share the Good News. Lord, may it be so.
Matthew 24:9-14 (Jesus speaking to his followers)
"Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come...."
Just let me say, this is not my favorite passage in the Bible. I take it to heart - and take it personally - but what his hearers would have heard when he said this matters. We have to look at context in addition to application. Both apply.
His hearers were Jewish. We certainly see evidence throughout history of how our Jews have been treated - the holocaust being just one significant example. Taking it personally for the gentile world who follow Christ - Christians are being killed every day for their standing firm in their faith. A conservative estimate says that 450 Christians are killed every day, while others are burned, beaten, and otherwise severely persecuted.
Type 'Christians being martyred' into your search (I used Google) and you can watch videos on youtube that speak louder than any words I can write. I watched the first one that was listed....it was heartbreaking and compelling. It told of a 10 year old boy who was instructed to gather wood for a fire - and when he wouldn't deny his faith he was thrown on the fire and left to die. He escaped - but with severe burns. Another story was of a 16 year old girl who went away to camp - and on the 2nd day was attacked and threatened with broken glass....
For me to be faced with death is one thing - for my grandchildren to be faced with the same choice is overwhelming.
It makes Matthew 10:22 (repeated in Matthew 24:13) more significant: All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. This is not seeker-friendly Christianity. This is the real deal.
This is not being hated because of anything we've done but just because of people's hatred for Christ in us. Hatred for the One who died for their salvation as well as ours. Hatred that comes from Satan himself. It is almost incomprehensible. I'm not fond of being hated. I've experienced just enough of a hint of it that I know I don't like it. My automatic reaction is to want clarity - to want to explain - to want equity - to want vindication. I'm going to need God's grace....
Next on the list is that many will turn from the faith and betray and hate each other. It is pure logic that unless someone is very well grounded in their faith, they are not going to stand up for something they aren't absolutely certain of. Many will fall into that category. And - there will be those who will be threatened with pain who will identify others who are Christian - probably believing their persecutors that things will go easier for them.... Hatred comes in lots of packages. Hatred is simply any act or emotion that wishes another person dead - even for our convenience. It doesn't have to be virulent, seething animosity to be classified as hatred.
'Many false prophets will appear and deceive many people' is the next on the list. I covered a bit of that on the wading in day. Two of the larger -isms that affect me personally. I have a Muslim family I love dearly. I have Mormon relatives I love and want to know the Truth.
Jim Jones and his compound at Jamestown,British Guyana; David Koresh and the Branch Davidians; The Aryan Nations aka The Church of Jesus Christ-Christian of North Idaho, The Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, who was set up in Antelope, Oregon. These are just a few in my day. Any church or religion that does not place Jesus in His rightful role - the ONE who is the Messiah - the only Messiah - who came in the flesh, fully God and fully human. Any teacher or preacher who says there is any other way to God than through the shed blood of Jesus Christ - all fit into the list of those who deceive.... In our day it includes the plethora of preachers who have soft-soaped and watered down the Word of God to make it more appealing. All I know is: if I am standing at the business end of an AK-47, I want to know that the One I believe in is going to be there as I am ushered in to eternity - and I want Him to give me the courage to be faithful no matter what....
Having said that, living for Him faithfully in a world littered with spiritual land-mines is a daily challenge for all who seek to follow Him. Sometimes it is harder to 'live' faithfully than it would be to face death. We are challenged to do both.
The increase of wickedness....next on the list....and because of it the love of most will grow cold. We face that onslaught of risk every day: there is so much to distract us and divert our attention. Every one of us is at risk for succumbing to the diversions. It takes being very intentional in our faith to maintain focus and proper perspective. When I see all that is 'in the world' today - I wonder how God can stand it - how He can delay His coming to set it all right. He created the world to be beautiful - and we humans have corrupted it - from what we are doing to the earth itself - to what we are doing to ourselves in polluting our minds and bodies with sensual overload. God must weep. We become desensitized.
And finally, the good news in this portion of prophecy: the good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the world....
Because of the explosion of technological advances, that is now possible in a way never before conceived. People all over the world - even those who are illiterate - have i-pods and the potential to have satellite internet. Connecting with the world is easier every day.
We have this little window of opportunity to speak to the nations: to tell them that Jesus Christ, Yeshua ha Meshiach, Isa al Masih, Jesu Cristo, came to seek and save that which was lost.
It is a little bit frightening - but even more than that, it is compelling. In our going we are to disciple. To build relationships. To share the Good News. Lord, may it be so.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
ESCHATOLOGY - Wading into the water....Matthew 24:1-8
Matthew 24:1-8
Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention to its buildings. "Do you see all these things?" he asked. "I tell you the truth, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down."
As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, "Tell us," they said, "when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?"
Jesus answered: "Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Christ (the Messiah), and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains...."
I suppose writing about Shayne's birth provides a natural segue to my current topic since it references 'birth pains'!
When I was a teen I was absolutely fascinated by Eschatology (the study of what will occur at the end of time). Then after I walked away from God for approximately 2 years in my early 20's, when I recommitted my life to Him, I realized it was far more important to live my life to be ready to meet Him - whenever that might be, rather than be overly focused on the 'end of time'.
But, this past Sunday my interest was piqued again. That has led me to two things: one is to study the difference between Islam and Christianity to try to gain an understanding for how so many people could be so dreadfully deceived by Satan;and more importantly, to read through the prophecies and prophetic books of the Bible to see what God might say to me. Writing about that journey certainly means taking some risks. I'm in way over my head!
In the beginning of Matthew 24, which events in 'real time' happened about 33 A D, Jesus tells the disciples about the destruction of the temple. That prophecy was fulfilled in 70 A D, just +-37 years later. What he told them was true. It happened.
But - for the other prophetic statements made on the Mt of Olives, the message was for future generations. They were asking multiple questions - though they obviously didn't perceive that....
We are seeing that fulfillment. It is true that there have been wars for a long time - history is littered with reports of wars. What makes the wars for the 20th Century more significant to the prophetic warning is that they tie in with other prophecies that are also being fulfilled. We'll see more of that in later days....
I am not a brilliant student of prophecy - but it doesn't take a degree to see the fulfillment of the Bible's predictions of wars and rumors of wars, nation rising against nation and kingdom against kingdom, famines and earthquakes in various places, and the escalation of those realities.
My other deficiency for this specific quest is that I never had a good history teacher - so I am not as 'trained' as I should be for launching out on this particular journey. But with some trepidation, I'm pushing off, and we'll see where the tide takes me. You're welcome to come along for the ride. You're welcome to throw your line into the water and share the fish you catch....
Jesus' first prophecy for the time leading to the end of time: Many will come claiming to be the Messiah.
The -ism's abound. The truly huge one we deal with today is the deceit of Islam. Mohammed was born +-570 years after Yeshua (Jesus). He claimed to be a prophet of God. The problem is that all who spoke for Yahweh/ Jehovah/ the One True God, elevated Jesus Christ as the one and only Son of God and Islam does not. Jesus is the only way to God. The Bible is absolutely clear about that. He didn't come claiming to be a prophet. He claimed to be the One and only Son of God! In fact, Jesus is God-in-the-flesh, God Incarnate. It was because of His proclamation of that fact that He was crucified. But, being crucified was what He came to do. He came to bring the Good News - to be the Good News - that man could once again have a personal relationship with God. That which was severed when Adam sinned in the Garden of Eden was restored - and that Good News was purchased at the price of His blood shed by whips and thorns - scourging and death on a cruel cross. We just covered all of that in the Lenten journey....
Another following of an -ism that is of particular concern - in the United States, especially, since it started here - is Mormonism. The Bible is clear that there is no other way and no other truth than the way of truth outlined in God's only written Word, the Bible. Biblical Christianity is far different than what is taught in Mormonism - - even though they teach many good things. The sad thing is, the greatest lie is the one with the most truth in it. They have espoused a deception that is not Truth. In my limited experience, Mormons who read their Bible and see the Truth leave and connect with a Bible-believing church following their seeing the truth of God's Word.
This issue occupies a tender place in my heart. I have many relatives by marriage who are Mormon, as well as a wonderful great nephew who married into a loving Mormon family. In fact, my husband has a relative on his mother's side named Daniel Webster Jones, who was taken in and nursed back to health by the Mormons, who converted to Mormonism and was the founder of Mesa, Arizona. I have gone to family reunions on that side of the family, and have been lovingly embraced by people who call me a 'gentile', but who tell me I would be a good Mormon. I wouldn't. I absolutely do not believe that my security of going to heaven is based on a husband's choice. I do not believe men become gods. I do not believe they will rule their own planet.
They do not teach who Jesus really is. Jesus didn't 'become' God - He was God who became man - and for his 33 years on earth, was fully man and fully God. Mormon worshipers may sing the same songs I sing in church - but their meaning in their minds is twisted to mean something else. I know that I cannot be anyone else's Holy Spirit. Only the Holy Spirit can take that role in their lives - but I do believe that anyone who reads the actual Bible, and asks for God to show them Truth, will find it. The book of Hebrews is very clear that Jesus was the final priest in the order of Melchizadek. The book of John presents Jesus through the eyes of 'the one Jesus' loved'. Truth is there to be embraced.
Jesus' second prophecy for the time leading to the end of time: wars and rumors of wars. I typed '20th Century Wars' into my search on Google, and found a site that lists all of the wars and casualties of the 20th Century. It is a long list. At the top it states that 160 MILLION people died in wars in the 20th Century! And that is just the beginning of birth pains....
Next on the list of things that precede the end of time is: nation rising against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. That syncs with the wars, of course, but it also speaks of tensions and disagreements. Hostile attitudes and malicious accusations. A general absence of peace among nations; even brother rising up against brother, as is conspicuously apparent with all of the territoriality we see throughout the world.
And, finally, last on the list in these few verses - famines and earthquakes. If you type in 'Earthquakes - Long Term Trends' in your search engine, you should be able to find the sites I found. The graph I found that shows earthquakes from just 1973 - 2006, shows a marked increase in numbers - but the more significant report is this: earthquakes measuring 6.99 or higher divided into 38-year periods are reported as follows:
1863 - 1900: 12
1901 - 1938: 53
1939 - 1976: 71
1977 - 4/2010: 151
Just think what that will be by 2014 when this 38-year segment ends.
If you look at the stats for the death tolls over history - there were some major death tolls historically - but what I am addressing specifically is the increase in the number of earthquakes. Some of that could be due to better information gathering - but it certainly appears to fall into the prophetic pattern Jesus foretold 'as the beginning of birth pains.'
The stats on famines are there, too.... Pretty compelling in light of God's Word....
Jesus foretold it - and it is coming true....
For a tidbit of hopefully helpful information on a 'life-as-we-live-it' level: Starting today, in Washington, it is illegal to hold your cell phone while driving. It is now a first offense - not a secondary offense - and people will be stopped just for holding it. A word to the wise....
Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention to its buildings. "Do you see all these things?" he asked. "I tell you the truth, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down."
As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, "Tell us," they said, "when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?"
Jesus answered: "Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Christ (the Messiah), and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains...."
I suppose writing about Shayne's birth provides a natural segue to my current topic since it references 'birth pains'!
When I was a teen I was absolutely fascinated by Eschatology (the study of what will occur at the end of time). Then after I walked away from God for approximately 2 years in my early 20's, when I recommitted my life to Him, I realized it was far more important to live my life to be ready to meet Him - whenever that might be, rather than be overly focused on the 'end of time'.
But, this past Sunday my interest was piqued again. That has led me to two things: one is to study the difference between Islam and Christianity to try to gain an understanding for how so many people could be so dreadfully deceived by Satan;and more importantly, to read through the prophecies and prophetic books of the Bible to see what God might say to me. Writing about that journey certainly means taking some risks. I'm in way over my head!
In the beginning of Matthew 24, which events in 'real time' happened about 33 A D, Jesus tells the disciples about the destruction of the temple. That prophecy was fulfilled in 70 A D, just +-37 years later. What he told them was true. It happened.
But - for the other prophetic statements made on the Mt of Olives, the message was for future generations. They were asking multiple questions - though they obviously didn't perceive that....
We are seeing that fulfillment. It is true that there have been wars for a long time - history is littered with reports of wars. What makes the wars for the 20th Century more significant to the prophetic warning is that they tie in with other prophecies that are also being fulfilled. We'll see more of that in later days....
I am not a brilliant student of prophecy - but it doesn't take a degree to see the fulfillment of the Bible's predictions of wars and rumors of wars, nation rising against nation and kingdom against kingdom, famines and earthquakes in various places, and the escalation of those realities.
My other deficiency for this specific quest is that I never had a good history teacher - so I am not as 'trained' as I should be for launching out on this particular journey. But with some trepidation, I'm pushing off, and we'll see where the tide takes me. You're welcome to come along for the ride. You're welcome to throw your line into the water and share the fish you catch....
Jesus' first prophecy for the time leading to the end of time: Many will come claiming to be the Messiah.
The -ism's abound. The truly huge one we deal with today is the deceit of Islam. Mohammed was born +-570 years after Yeshua (Jesus). He claimed to be a prophet of God. The problem is that all who spoke for Yahweh/ Jehovah/ the One True God, elevated Jesus Christ as the one and only Son of God and Islam does not. Jesus is the only way to God. The Bible is absolutely clear about that. He didn't come claiming to be a prophet. He claimed to be the One and only Son of God! In fact, Jesus is God-in-the-flesh, God Incarnate. It was because of His proclamation of that fact that He was crucified. But, being crucified was what He came to do. He came to bring the Good News - to be the Good News - that man could once again have a personal relationship with God. That which was severed when Adam sinned in the Garden of Eden was restored - and that Good News was purchased at the price of His blood shed by whips and thorns - scourging and death on a cruel cross. We just covered all of that in the Lenten journey....
Another following of an -ism that is of particular concern - in the United States, especially, since it started here - is Mormonism. The Bible is clear that there is no other way and no other truth than the way of truth outlined in God's only written Word, the Bible. Biblical Christianity is far different than what is taught in Mormonism - - even though they teach many good things. The sad thing is, the greatest lie is the one with the most truth in it. They have espoused a deception that is not Truth. In my limited experience, Mormons who read their Bible and see the Truth leave and connect with a Bible-believing church following their seeing the truth of God's Word.
This issue occupies a tender place in my heart. I have many relatives by marriage who are Mormon, as well as a wonderful great nephew who married into a loving Mormon family. In fact, my husband has a relative on his mother's side named Daniel Webster Jones, who was taken in and nursed back to health by the Mormons, who converted to Mormonism and was the founder of Mesa, Arizona. I have gone to family reunions on that side of the family, and have been lovingly embraced by people who call me a 'gentile', but who tell me I would be a good Mormon. I wouldn't. I absolutely do not believe that my security of going to heaven is based on a husband's choice. I do not believe men become gods. I do not believe they will rule their own planet.
They do not teach who Jesus really is. Jesus didn't 'become' God - He was God who became man - and for his 33 years on earth, was fully man and fully God. Mormon worshipers may sing the same songs I sing in church - but their meaning in their minds is twisted to mean something else. I know that I cannot be anyone else's Holy Spirit. Only the Holy Spirit can take that role in their lives - but I do believe that anyone who reads the actual Bible, and asks for God to show them Truth, will find it. The book of Hebrews is very clear that Jesus was the final priest in the order of Melchizadek. The book of John presents Jesus through the eyes of 'the one Jesus' loved'. Truth is there to be embraced.
Jesus' second prophecy for the time leading to the end of time: wars and rumors of wars. I typed '20th Century Wars' into my search on Google, and found a site that lists all of the wars and casualties of the 20th Century. It is a long list. At the top it states that 160 MILLION people died in wars in the 20th Century! And that is just the beginning of birth pains....
Next on the list of things that precede the end of time is: nation rising against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. That syncs with the wars, of course, but it also speaks of tensions and disagreements. Hostile attitudes and malicious accusations. A general absence of peace among nations; even brother rising up against brother, as is conspicuously apparent with all of the territoriality we see throughout the world.
And, finally, last on the list in these few verses - famines and earthquakes. If you type in 'Earthquakes - Long Term Trends' in your search engine, you should be able to find the sites I found. The graph I found that shows earthquakes from just 1973 - 2006, shows a marked increase in numbers - but the more significant report is this: earthquakes measuring 6.99 or higher divided into 38-year periods are reported as follows:
1863 - 1900: 12
1901 - 1938: 53
1939 - 1976: 71
1977 - 4/2010: 151
Just think what that will be by 2014 when this 38-year segment ends.
If you look at the stats for the death tolls over history - there were some major death tolls historically - but what I am addressing specifically is the increase in the number of earthquakes. Some of that could be due to better information gathering - but it certainly appears to fall into the prophetic pattern Jesus foretold 'as the beginning of birth pains.'
The stats on famines are there, too.... Pretty compelling in light of God's Word....
Jesus foretold it - and it is coming true....
For a tidbit of hopefully helpful information on a 'life-as-we-live-it' level: Starting today, in Washington, it is illegal to hold your cell phone while driving. It is now a first offense - not a secondary offense - and people will be stopped just for holding it. A word to the wise....
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