Proverbs 29:7 The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern. I ask in Jesus name as His ministry was about us disadvantaged and saved the needy from those too powerful for them.
I am a divorced homeless woman without an income cause Iost my job and had to move to where I could find shelter. I ask Jesus to install in people a heart of compassion and not judging and to rebuke rich people who are selfish and live for their own pleasure and look with disdain on us struggling. Restore our dignity and according to Proverbs 30:8-9 give me neither poverty nor riches so I do not deny God nor resort to stealing and insult my God. Please pray for me in Jesus name
Hi Chris: I'd like to comment on two statements you made in this post. First when you said "when lengthy discussions here are in progress & they suddenly cease:" I was in a lengthily discussion about two subjects; the Sabbath and corruption of the KJB. I felt like I had to quit for the exact reason you want to quit this discussion:
"I have often put forward pertinent Scriptures in this matter of the Triunity of God, but not one has come forth to exegete the Word & show why those verses are inapplicable." They always just came back with their same arguments with little or no scripture and, although, I posted a rebuttal, I guess you could call it, with questions and other scripture they mostly wouldn't answer the question or explain, as you say, why those scriptures are inapplicable.
This is the first posting I've seen on the Trinity and I'd like to take part in a the discussion but if you feel like you must stop, I'd like to ask if you would go on a little longer and let me respond.
I am a believer of the Trinity. I have just watched a video on YouTube of a person explaining why believing in the Trinity is wrong for 5 main reasons. My next post will address these (empty) reasons. If it is a repeat of what you and S. Spencer have already discussed, please let me know. God Bless :)
Dan.12:12 "Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days."
Here the Angel of the Lord, the man in linen is referring Israel as the holy people. He raises both hands so emphasis is what is decreed in heaven both by God and the Word and it is not Daniel to know as we read in vv.9-13. So we have to look at the Ancient of days and Man as in the inaugural vision of the Book of the Revelation for answer. We shall come to that anon.
The man clothed in linen "and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished." The tag time, times and an half is regarding the holy family called out before the worlds began for which we have the night vision in the Book of Daniel. (7:13-14) The tag is associated with the Man component in the Fellowship of God with Man. Thus time signifies Israel, times represent both Israel and Gentile nations. And an half represents 144,000 from the left out church which steps in the breachsince 12 tribes are no longer extant. ("Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads." Re.7:3). What we have in vv.4-7 are those who redeemed their calling to considered 'the servants of our God'.)
Three and half years of Jesus' ministry is the baseline which works out to 1260 days.
Daniel is told of 1290 instead of 1260. This 30 days (3x10) refers to the church before rapture. 1260+30 days
12:11 "And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days."The temple worship has ceased after the ransacking of Jerusalem in AD70.
Matt.24:27 "so shall also the coming of the Son of man be."
Blessedness refers to the holy people coming their inheritance.
"I see no reason in stopping what could be productive Bible-based dialogs with fellow believers on a forum designed for that as long as its not an argument. You asked if the views have consumed someone- maybe you are tired of this topic? I've seen the trinity topic a lot on here, but less often discuss the root differences for why people believe what they believe and get into specific verse interpretations. That's ok if that's not of interest to you, but it seems to be of interest to those who are posting about it. I think others can post any Bible topics they want to discuss and I'm not aware of anything interfering with that freedom."
General admonitions related to prophecy and the end times
There is a tendency at the very least to discuss subjective individual experiences as to what is said to constitute a dream or vision of the Rapture or Tribulation; which may involve several different scenarios but often fails to expound scripturally on the big picture. It is much like the testimonies; real or imagined of heaven and hell which either cast doubt on assurance of salvation or show some landscape ruled by Satan or demons who are in control or perhaps emphasize punishment for specific sins while on earth but not addressing the sin nature as the real problem.
On the earth in the Tribulation; Satan is given his authority and power to rule for the last 3.5 years until Christ's return to earth.
What is often neglected is God's plan in all this to purge the nation of Israel as well as for a quick "fruit production" for those with white garments (i.e. those who are saved at the time) through martyrdom. As I stated in one of yesterday's posts; there tends to be emphasis on the torture of those being martyred as though any true believers will fail and fall away to take the mark. The primary execution is beheading according to the scripture at that time ( Rev. 20:4). This will; no doubt be swayed by those who want to offer the most "humane" method of killing. This in no way is meant to minimize the time worse than any time in human history but to point out that Satan's main goal all along is for worship; he just mows down any opposing him in the process. Believe what you want as a Mid or Post Tribber; to think we can somehow prepare or find a way to survive at that time is foolishness; God will save a remnant; as for the Gentiles "rarer than the gold of Ophir" ( Isaiah 13:12 with warnings in verse 17 that the gold and silver won't sustain anyone along with other similar scriptures in James).
The Tribulation is coming we can't stop God's plans. We must occupy therefore until He comes (Luke 1913
The 2000 character "curse" cut off my thought; there is a book of all living it seems; and the book of life and a remnant of those are in Malachi's mention of a "book of remembrance".
I wanted to ask you to pray for wisdom and suggestions as I feel an overwhelming burden to share some deep stuff about the mark of the beast but don't know if this forum is the best place. I will put it in the prayer section in more detail.
Glad to hear of your test being good. The Lord has you helping a lot of people so at least I can say with some confidence that is one reason you aren't out of commission completely. I am very bad at serving; maybe that's why He has me living to help at home and working serving students in a cafeteria. Being an only child I suppose is part of the reason and makes me introspective.
As to the subject of the discussion we of course are sad for those who don't know the truth. I don't know how really to balance the overwhelming emotions that crop up on that with the ultimate reality of Isaiah 66 where those tormented in hell are an abhorrance to everyone else. It makes me think anyway of my half hearted efforts in evangelism; and that is magnified by the sermons in church on 1 Peter and related scriptures on sufferings and persecution we should joyfully endure. Our Pastor talked about the famous "flea" story of Corrie Ten Boom but also about how someone about to die wrote something about asking God to remember the good fruit that happened under the oppressors; and of course that may have been part of what she thought about when forgiving one of the prison guards years later. This sorta relates to what I said in the last post; Jesus asked the Father to forgive them as they know not what they are doing at the crucifixion. In the case of Lucifer as you said they knew enough about what they were doing. I wanted to say that the functions of the angels remained distinct and unique but the fallen can't reflect God just themselves.
1 Timothy 5:21 seems to answer that question regarding the "elect angels". I don't believe any elect beings can ultimately fall; but in the case of the angels they saw heaven and were present when the worlds were created as the verses in Job indicate when all the sons of glory shouted for joy. This begs the question of course did God foresee all those who would fall and call the remaining the elect; or were they predestined to go that way? I would say both as God certainly is unlimited. Seeing everything as the angels did there could be no further remedy unlike mortal man who has never seen God or only what they learned starting in Eden. Seeing heaven as Lucifer did and more importantly the proper praise of God's holiness in the beginning also would have made it clear what worshiping a created being would imply. This is similar to the logic I apply to the Tribulation at least from the sixth seal on there is no more need to tell anyone that Christ is Lord as they will hide from the face of God and Christ at His right hand ( Revelation 6:16 imperfectly translated by me).
Clearly of course God's predestined plan from before the foundation of the world for our salvation (I'll let you find the verse) shows that God knew what was going to occur. This doesn't give us a pleasant feeling; and we should be reminded the dirge said related to Lucifer's fall in Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 28. Once the angels saw all these things there was no need for validation of who God was; and there was also no further remedy-they were forever to be out of the favor of God with the ultimate destiny of hell (which was created for the Devil and his angels).
This should be a sobering reminder to man that there is a point beyond redemption once we have tasted heavenly things as Hebrews and literally hundreds of other scriptures point out in warnings of reprobate individuals and those who at first glance appear to be saved who fall away. There is a book of all living and of life.
First of all; I'm praying about sharing some deep stuff on the mark of the Beast and the Tribulation that I haven't shared yet.
I could try to word things as to not spark any unnecessary controversy as to things which I strongly am convinced the Lord has shown me. There is also the choice of the discussion forum or getting involved in a thread should the Lord bring an open door (much as He did last time when the Trinity was on my mind and discussion was already available here on that subject). The question arises as to how crucial this subject is on this side of the Rapture (as I am a Pre Trib Rapture believer but qualify that statement with the fact that some who think they are ready aren't or will be left behind). That is another issue; but my question is how important are these events if we ourselves won't be here and of course there is always a risk sounding the alarm that the Lord will tarry much longer than we think. Balancing what we need to do now with the Great Commission with these future events is a challenge; the scriptures should be out there to warn any living into the Tribulation of how horrible it will be but also present the Gospel now as they could die tomorrow. The lack of earnest discourse or preaching much of the time in churches now as there was say 30 years ago is alarming to me and a sign as to how much closer it is; and the verse in Luke about "beating the fellowservants ( Matt. 24:48 and next few verses) indicates to me that those who wish to warn on such events will be ridiculed by other believers near the time of His coming.
My other prayer is for a friend of mine who I am seeking the Lord on whether we could share a place together. His name is Steve and although working full time and having his own business on the side it is hard for him. I thought by having less rent for him would help and it would make it easier to live near but not in my parent's house and save me money as well.
Hi GiGi. It's so good to hear your ultrasound turned out so well. Praise the Lord! I'm really happy for you.
I use to watch TV shows with families remodeling their homes and the disruptions they faced. It sounds like just what your family is going through, especially with that many people in your home. LOL
Your soups sound so delicious, especially the mushroom soup-my favorite. It is so sweet of you to share your soup. My oldest son, Joshua, makes a delicious gabbage and sausage soup. I love it. He lives with me as my caretaker. He's a christian but he is going through a situation right now and needs direction. Please pray for him. Talk to you soon. God Bless:)
It brings me to Psalms 45, especially Psalms 45:6-7. This also touches somewhat on Adam's recent postings concerning the person of Jesus. Thanks for sharing this, God Bless!!!
GOD the Father always responds to requests from His firstborn son-JESUS-. Luke 15:31 revels:Son, thou art ever with me,and all that I have is thine.
JESUS saved us and we are saved because He took us out of the world - John 17:5-8-,that is, He saved us from the power of the terrible Evil One, the ruler of the whole world.The Evil One had dominated even the seed of GOD, Israel was dominated by the Evil One, then GOD became Man, that is,The Word became flesh,He descended from heaven yet again,according to His purpose of salvation.
In fact, this was not the only time that He came to the Devil's world, but the difference now is that He became a Man and came to dwell among men, to save those who were His- John 17:6and12-26, that is,to take them out of the power of the Evil One, Hallelujah, even though they were still living in his diabolical world, and the Word gave us Power to resist the cunning snares/traps of the Devil- John 17:9-12-even though we still live in the Devil's world. Satan works through his demonic strategies to divert us from the faith that was once given to the saints.Faith comes by hearing, hearing the Word of GOD,the Word is GOD,a great mystery.
Re.11:15-18-The terrible WAR from now on
15...The kingdoms of this world(Devil's world) are become the Kingdoms of our Lord,and of His Christ;and He shall reign for ever and ever.
16And the four and twenty elders, which sat before GOD on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped GOD,
17Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord GOD Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.
18And the nations were(will be)angry, and GOD's WRATH is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be Judged ( 1Thessalonians 4:14-16),and that GOD should give reward unto His servants the prophets,and to the saints,and them that fear His name,small and great;and should destroy them which destroy the earth.
Happy Sunday. Some verses that jumped out at me...
1 Timothy 3:16
Colossians 1:14-20
John 14:6
Isaiah 48:12, Revelation 22:13
My interpretation: Jesus is a big deal. Probably bigger than we realize and He loves us and died for each of us that we may choose to follow Him. God bless.
Please pray you'll be our eyes And watch us where we go And help us to be wise In times when we don't know Let this be our prayer When we lose our way Lead us to a place (please) Guide us (dear God) with your grace To a place where we'll be safe
Please pray for Sherrie, Shirley and Clifton. Stan also needs help through prayer as well as Brian, Marc and Sean. Ansol and Lance need prayer as well as Hamp(Sir). Honesty, Granada, Brunson, Gloria, Aaliyah and Sir II also need prayer along with Emmanuel, Fgerital, Samarrah and Semaj. Donovan needs prayer as well as Douglass, Dexter, Daniel and David. Wali needs help and so does Jamie. Their friends, family members, neighbors, associaates, affiliates, colleagues, co-workers and relatives also need prayer. Thank you very much.
In continuation to 'the fulness thereof' the earth as we observe physically is merely a changeable aberration that fools take as their be-all. What is shakeable in heaven and earth shall pass away, (He.12:27). In heaven Michael fighting fallen angels refers to the angelic revolt mentioned in the vision of Daniel"I beheld till the thrones were cast down"(Dan.7:9-10). " the judgment was set, and the books were opened." Action now moves over to the earth, "And the great dragon was cast out,... and his angels were cast out with him." Following this we have the beast stepping into the world stage where the two witnesses are martyred. We see reference to three and a half days. " And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half."(Re. 11:9) Here we have a tag placed by the Spirit. It distinguishes one set of time period from 42 months as in "But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months." This is to be read with events mentioned in Ch.13:5 "And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months." Similarly one thousand two hundred and three score days is another tag, and the Spirit is using it with reference to the visions. Like thermal imaging it is spiritually discerned. The only infallible course is to remain steadfast in faith, and in Christ. "and by him all things consist."(Col.1:17-19)
"And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth./These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth."(11:3-4)
"The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein./For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods."
He has set his throne as a king, "The Lord sitteth upon the flood; yea, the Lord sitteth King for ever."(Ps.29:10) The phrase, 'forever' assures us the Word of God, the King of Kings, and lord of Lords, "And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God./And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean."(Re.19:13-14) "And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King Of Kings, And Lord Of Lords."(v.16)
His "vesture dipped in blood" is an emblem that is determined by the Word of God. "Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save."(Is.63:1) Here we have Jesus Christ riding out ,the rider on the white horse to conquer and conquering. Before the worlds began we have him fulfilling the determined Will of his Father followed by the cloud of witnesses, 'and in the fulness thereof ' indicate we have no way of knowing by our own intellect. The Word of God determines how and where. He is none other than the Word become flesh, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today and forever.:(He.13:8)
Neither can we conceive foundations for the earth. Hannah referred to it. "He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the Lord's, and he hath set the world upon them."(1 Sa.2:8)
In the light of the above, how shall we interpret this verse? "And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth."(Rev.12:16).
Thank you brother S. Spencer for those good observations. Though I might add, and giving some credence to the unflinching belief of the anti-trinitarian, is that it is possible that many simply do not have the ability or biblical knowledge to properly refute a teaching. It is quite easy to declare a strong & certain belief, even citing many Scriptures in support, but when we get down to business of searching & exegeting ALL the Scriptures pertaining to the matter, there can be several reasons why we then hit a brick wall.
Without stating the obvious which you no doubt have picked up on when lengthy discussions here are in progress & they suddenly cease: for some of us, it's 'why did I even get into this discussion when the other person(s) have suddenly withdrawn just when the end of the matter & our understanding of it are soon before us?' So, I've just learnt to accept that some folk simply either don't have enough knowledge to properly defend their belief, or are hardened in their stand, or even maybe uninterested in taking the matter to its proper resolution or closure. I have often put forward pertinent Scriptures in this matter of the Triunity of God, but not one has come forth to exegete the Word & show why those verses are inapplicable.
So, I'll stop here. This is not just about the matter of the Trinity, rather that this may not be the right Site to expect a heavy protracted examination of the Scriptures on any subject. The best we can do is cite the clear ones (& these have already been done by many here), yet not live in hope that it will go much further than that. GBU.
I wanted to get back to you about my ultrasound on my thyroid. The radiologist said to keep a watch on it by redoing an ultrasound in a year. So, that is good news! No fine needle biopsy needed or any further testing other than a recheck next January. Happy, Happy, Happy!
Been making more soup this week to bring to those who like to have single serve soup in a variety of types. I love doing that and it is very hard to make just a small amount of soup. Made chicken vegetable and chicken tortilla soup this week.
Next, I will make a beef and cabbage soup that is so good and a great mushroom soup I love. then I will stop for awhile since my freezer is getting crowded.
Today when I was washing a handful of grapes to have for a snack, I just stopped and thanked God for providing me with fresh fruit to eat.
The remodel of our bathrooms began on Thursday. I am glad they are starting with the baths because there are five adults living here. We can take a shower in the tub now. And when the master bath is done with the walk in shower, then they will do the other bath with replacing the bath surround and flooring and painting. The wall is patched where they had to access the plumbing. When those things get done, then they will seat the toilet and set the vanities and sinks. It is good to see progress.
Hi Richard, Your posting about the angels that fell and the reaction of those who did not made me think this:
Did God make all angels able to fall, but elected those who He would preserve from falling by grace, in a similar way that He elects to saves us from sin by grace, but not all are elected? And those who fell, did He not elect them to remain holy and true to Him in order to accomplish His plan for creation (which includes the angels and heavenly hosts) which was decided before any creation had occurred?
How much the angels know about the plan of God concerning the historical outcome of creation and about God's eternal plan is a query I think about. I tend to think that they know much more than we do, and the holy angels must have praised the Lord that He preserved them from falling, trusting in what they knew about God's eternal plan. We do not know how much God has shared with the holy angels. We know a lot of the entire sequence of history up to now and what has been prophesied to yet occur because God chose to have His Words be written as Scripture for us. But did He also give information to the angels about how thing will go because they are also creatures of time as we are. Hmmm.
Just some thoughts that came up when I read your post.
Thoughts on the evil entities and Satan finally getting God's justice
I can write my own song on imagining what it will be like with no Satan to deceive men to war and no demons to torment in the Millennium. Or a world living in peace under Christ's rule.
Whether we realize it or not the air is thick with deception; with demonic hosts in high places ruling and twisting men's minds and controlling the affairs of nations.
I live in a suburban area that is well policed and in a school where I haven't even seen a serious fight. I can't be complacent in prayer as there can always be a lone gunman or some unforeseen incident (we had one lockout for an hour or two last year with a suspicious person on the grounds). As far as I know there has only been one tragedy of a student last year run over by a car when jogging; I haven't heard of any suicides. We are warned with training to be on the lookout for such things along with other training. My complacency living this way and having enough to eat; etc. is something for me to watch out for; but also I am aware that people are perishing in nice homes as much as they are in the neighborhoods I would avoid even during the day near me unless anointed to do witnessing.
The verses in 2 Thessalonians 2:6-7 I believe refer to the restraining power of the Spirit as it works in the current church age.
God will do signs and wonders and protect His saints in the Tribulation as well as save countless multitudes so it seems apparent that the Spirit doesn't leave the earth. It is just that as Daniel states they will be overcome; but for now the gates of hell can't prevail against the church.
I truly believe that as bad as the Tribulation is there will also be a sense of relief for those who are His own because there will be no more time for the world to restrain producing fruit; in this time that means martyrdom. Those who die will join us in heaven at once; in spirit form at first to rise later at His raturn.
My last post shows worship for all those who take the mark of the Beast in Revelation 13:8. The world is decieved because of some image of the beast they somehow create. The Antichrist will suffer a deadly wound as Zechariah 11:17 and will be adored because of an apparent "resurrection". My point is that it appears all those who take the mark do so voluntarily; and are unsaved; and all those saved will be given the strength to be martyred and NONE of them will take it. That will require supernatural strength. It seems that torture and limits of human suffering won't be able to force someone to take this mark and thus damn themselves; but it is true that cowards have their place in hell; and I would interpret that to be those who are more concerned about themselves or what man thinks than of fearing God rather than just afraid of suffering. Some of the Jews no doubt will escape and survive with a few others into the Millennial period.
We see shades of the beginning of the Tribulation in the final failed rebellion at the end of the Millennium which will be ended at its inception. The world after the Rapture will probably be convinced that with Christians gone they can finally obtain utopia on earth and in their hearts will think that they can sin with impunity now that we are finally gone as the "salt and light" of the world; or that God has finally somehow given up on this place and man has to rule; or that Christ and God are the aliens from outer space who they have to fight or something to that affect. (I can almost hear John Lennon's song Imagine in the background).
Many forget the exhortation such as an elder in my church has given that we are in "enemy territory" at present. Many forget they themselves were once enemies of God and are tempted to "dumb down" the awful truth of the sorry state of those who are lost and need Christ with some appeal that seeks approval of man instead of uncompromising truth
A look at the Pre Trib rapture and the madness to come
Revelation 5:12 describes those in heaven praising God but we also see evidence that ALL those on earth will also do the same; even those who are under the earth (possibly the dead souls in hades). I have said before that if the rapture is hidden the RESURRECTION of the dead saints from graves all over the world surely WON'T be able to remain hidden.
There are several themes in scripture that this reminds us of. First the state of all the angels praising God as seen in Job 38:7.
Lucifer fell AFTER this event; how quickly it is unknown but it may have seemed to be a shock to the 2/3 that remained faithful to their state of holiness to see 1/3 fall away with him ( Revelation 12:4 shows the end result). Of course the fall of man brought sudden issues as well. It didn't take long for the first murder to occur with Adam's firstborn son. And we could see shades of the same thing at the tower of Babel shortly after the flood.
What man will crave will be brought about; no doubt by Antichrist's delusion of peace at the first seal ( Rev. 6:1-2). This is going to appear to be a great light of hope (see 2 Cor. 11:14). Shades of the peace and security now will come to the climax with the Daniel 9:27 covenant being CONFIRMED or an original one made stronger (likely what is now known as the Abraham accords).
Whatever illusion of peace that comes will be short lived as the inevitable decay of society will result in the rest of the seal judgments of war; famine and pestilence to kill 1/4 of men (which appears to all occur BEFORE the mark of the Beast).
Those who end up following Antichrist will also worship the dragon (Satan) as seen in Rev. 13:14-18 who gives power to the Beast. They eventually end up fighting God as we see from Psalm 2 and Revelation 19.
Many have argued that out of fear men will be somehow tricked or coerced to take the mark. Revelation 13:8 seems to argue against this as WORSHIP occurs.
For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.
This was brought up recently in a video about the end times; and since I never noticed this verse before, and its importance to what is going on at present I thought I should expound on it a bit. I have trouble finding the history on YouTube but the concept was separation that God is using which will come to fruition starting at the Rapture and during the Tribulation as well.
This is all part of the bigger concept that God uses all things; including the Devil for His own purposes. A strong God fearing church will be able to withstand heresies when they come. Now in this verse those being approved could refer to those who will be elevated to church leadership roles; but of course it also could mean that it shows those who are true saints (wheat) as compared to the tares.
In considering this topic; I also have been contemplating the misuse of the term "love" as compared with the AGAPE which should supercede any affections we have personally and toward others. Matthew 22:42 asks what do ye think of Christ (speaking to the Pharisees). Whether a legalistic approach of pride toward being one of Abraham's natural descendants or a lax liberal mentality toward anything that was regarded as moral standards a couple generations ago Christ is reduced to the level of whatever best suits our imagination rather than held as God in the flesh; high and lifted up our Creator and the sustainer of our natural and eternal existence. 1 Corinthians 13:6 gives further emphasis to this concept; we are not to rejoice in evil but in the good. We also see in the surrounding verses in chapter 13 further details on God's type of love which is helpful for restoration in marriages in particular.
The big picture here shows how the final one world religion is coming; the first part of the Tribulation with Mystery Babylon.
I am a divorced homeless woman without an income cause Iost my job and had to move to where I could find shelter. I ask Jesus to install in people a heart of compassion and not judging and to rebuke rich people who are selfish and live for their own pleasure and look with disdain on us struggling. Restore our dignity and according to Proverbs 30:8-9 give me neither poverty nor riches so I do not deny God nor resort to stealing and insult my God. Please pray for me in Jesus name
"I have often put forward pertinent Scriptures in this matter of the Triunity of God, but not one has come forth to exegete the Word & show why those verses are inapplicable." They always just came back with their same arguments with little or no scripture and, although, I posted a rebuttal, I guess you could call it, with questions and other scripture they mostly wouldn't answer the question or explain, as you say, why those scriptures are inapplicable.
This is the first posting I've seen on the Trinity and I'd like to take part in a the discussion but if you feel like you must stop, I'd like to ask if you would go on a little longer and let me respond.
I am a believer of the Trinity. I have just watched a video on YouTube of a person explaining why believing in the Trinity is wrong for 5 main reasons. My next post will address these (empty) reasons. If it is a repeat of what you and S. Spencer have already discussed, please let me know. God Bless :)
Dan.12:12 "Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days."
Here the Angel of the Lord, the man in linen is referring Israel as the holy people. He raises both hands so emphasis is what is decreed in heaven both by God and the Word and it is not Daniel to know as we read in vv.9-13. So we have to look at the Ancient of days and Man as in the inaugural vision of the Book of the Revelation for answer. We shall come to that anon.
The man clothed in linen "and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished." The tag time, times and an half is regarding the holy family called out before the worlds began for which we have the night vision in the Book of Daniel. (7:13-14) The tag is associated with the Man component in the Fellowship of God with Man. Thus time signifies Israel, times represent both Israel and Gentile nations. And an half represents 144,000 from the left out church which steps in the breachsince 12 tribes are no longer extant. ("Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads." Re.7:3). What we have in vv.4-7 are those who redeemed their calling to considered 'the servants of our God'.)
Three and half years of Jesus' ministry is the baseline which works out to 1260 days.
Daniel is told of 1290 instead of 1260. This 30 days (3x10) refers to the church before rapture. 1260+30 days
12:11 "And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days."The temple worship has ceased after the ransacking of Jerusalem in AD70.
Matt.24:27 "so shall also the coming of the Son of man be."
Blessedness refers to the holy people coming their inheritance.
AMEN
There is a tendency at the very least to discuss subjective individual experiences as to what is said to constitute a dream or vision of the Rapture or Tribulation; which may involve several different scenarios but often fails to expound scripturally on the big picture. It is much like the testimonies; real or imagined of heaven and hell which either cast doubt on assurance of salvation or show some landscape ruled by Satan or demons who are in control or perhaps emphasize punishment for specific sins while on earth but not addressing the sin nature as the real problem.
On the earth in the Tribulation; Satan is given his authority and power to rule for the last 3.5 years until Christ's return to earth.
What is often neglected is God's plan in all this to purge the nation of Israel as well as for a quick "fruit production" for those with white garments (i.e. those who are saved at the time) through martyrdom. As I stated in one of yesterday's posts; there tends to be emphasis on the torture of those being martyred as though any true believers will fail and fall away to take the mark. The primary execution is beheading according to the scripture at that time ( Rev. 20:4). This will; no doubt be swayed by those who want to offer the most "humane" method of killing. This in no way is meant to minimize the time worse than any time in human history but to point out that Satan's main goal all along is for worship; he just mows down any opposing him in the process. Believe what you want as a Mid or Post Tribber; to think we can somehow prepare or find a way to survive at that time is foolishness; God will save a remnant; as for the Gentiles "rarer than the gold of Ophir" ( Isaiah 13:12 with warnings in verse 17 that the gold and silver won't sustain anyone along with other similar scriptures in James).
The Tribulation is coming we can't stop God's plans. We must occupy therefore until He comes (Luke 1913
The 2000 character "curse" cut off my thought; there is a book of all living it seems; and the book of life and a remnant of those are in Malachi's mention of a "book of remembrance".
I wanted to ask you to pray for wisdom and suggestions as I feel an overwhelming burden to share some deep stuff about the mark of the beast but don't know if this forum is the best place. I will put it in the prayer section in more detail.
Glad to hear of your test being good. The Lord has you helping a lot of people so at least I can say with some confidence that is one reason you aren't out of commission completely. I am very bad at serving; maybe that's why He has me living to help at home and working serving students in a cafeteria. Being an only child I suppose is part of the reason and makes me introspective.
As to the subject of the discussion we of course are sad for those who don't know the truth. I don't know how really to balance the overwhelming emotions that crop up on that with the ultimate reality of Isaiah 66 where those tormented in hell are an abhorrance to everyone else. It makes me think anyway of my half hearted efforts in evangelism; and that is magnified by the sermons in church on 1 Peter and related scriptures on sufferings and persecution we should joyfully endure. Our Pastor talked about the famous "flea" story of Corrie Ten Boom but also about how someone about to die wrote something about asking God to remember the good fruit that happened under the oppressors; and of course that may have been part of what she thought about when forgiving one of the prison guards years later. This sorta relates to what I said in the last post; Jesus asked the Father to forgive them as they know not what they are doing at the crucifixion. In the case of Lucifer as you said they knew enough about what they were doing. I wanted to say that the functions of the angels remained distinct and unique but the fallen can't reflect God just themselves.
Clearly of course God's predestined plan from before the foundation of the world for our salvation (I'll let you find the verse) shows that God knew what was going to occur. This doesn't give us a pleasant feeling; and we should be reminded the dirge said related to Lucifer's fall in Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 28. Once the angels saw all these things there was no need for validation of who God was; and there was also no further remedy-they were forever to be out of the favor of God with the ultimate destiny of hell (which was created for the Devil and his angels).
This should be a sobering reminder to man that there is a point beyond redemption once we have tasted heavenly things as Hebrews and literally hundreds of other scriptures point out in warnings of reprobate individuals and those who at first glance appear to be saved who fall away. There is a book of all living and of life.
First of all; I'm praying about sharing some deep stuff on the mark of the Beast and the Tribulation that I haven't shared yet.
I could try to word things as to not spark any unnecessary controversy as to things which I strongly am convinced the Lord has shown me. There is also the choice of the discussion forum or getting involved in a thread should the Lord bring an open door (much as He did last time when the Trinity was on my mind and discussion was already available here on that subject). The question arises as to how crucial this subject is on this side of the Rapture (as I am a Pre Trib Rapture believer but qualify that statement with the fact that some who think they are ready aren't or will be left behind). That is another issue; but my question is how important are these events if we ourselves won't be here and of course there is always a risk sounding the alarm that the Lord will tarry much longer than we think. Balancing what we need to do now with the Great Commission with these future events is a challenge; the scriptures should be out there to warn any living into the Tribulation of how horrible it will be but also present the Gospel now as they could die tomorrow. The lack of earnest discourse or preaching much of the time in churches now as there was say 30 years ago is alarming to me and a sign as to how much closer it is; and the verse in Luke about "beating the fellowservants ( Matt. 24:48 and next few verses) indicates to me that those who wish to warn on such events will be ridiculed by other believers near the time of His coming.
My other prayer is for a friend of mine who I am seeking the Lord on whether we could share a place together. His name is Steve and although working full time and having his own business on the side it is hard for him. I thought by having less rent for him would help and it would make it easier to live near but not in my parent's house and save me money as well.
Thanks and agape.
Rich P
I would love to pray for your son today. Can you give me his name?
Carleton
I use to watch TV shows with families remodeling their homes and the disruptions they faced. It sounds like just what your family is going through, especially with that many people in your home. LOL
Your soups sound so delicious, especially the mushroom soup-my favorite. It is so sweet of you to share your soup. My oldest son, Joshua, makes a delicious gabbage and sausage soup. I love it. He lives with me as my caretaker. He's a christian but he is going through a situation right now and needs direction. Please pray for him. Talk to you soon. God Bless:)
It brings me to Psalms 45, especially Psalms 45:6-7. This also touches somewhat on Adam's recent postings concerning the person of Jesus. Thanks for sharing this, God Bless!!!
GOD the Father always responds to requests from His firstborn son-JESUS-. Luke 15:31 revels:Son, thou art ever with me,and all that I have is thine.
JESUS saved us and we are saved because He took us out of the world - John 17:5-8-,that is, He saved us from the power of the terrible Evil One, the ruler of the whole world.The Evil One had dominated even the seed of GOD, Israel was dominated by the Evil One, then GOD became Man, that is,The Word became flesh,He descended from heaven yet again,according to His purpose of salvation.
In fact, this was not the only time that He came to the Devil's world, but the difference now is that He became a Man and came to dwell among men, to save those who were His- John 17:6and12-26, that is,to take them out of the power of the Evil One, Hallelujah, even though they were still living in his diabolical world, and the Word gave us Power to resist the cunning snares/traps of the Devil- John 17:9-12-even though we still live in the Devil's world. Satan works through his demonic strategies to divert us from the faith that was once given to the saints.Faith comes by hearing, hearing the Word of GOD,the Word is GOD,a great mystery.
Re.11:15-18-The terrible WAR from now on
15...The kingdoms of this world(Devil's world) are become the Kingdoms of our Lord,and of His Christ;and He shall reign for ever and ever.
16And the four and twenty elders, which sat before GOD on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped GOD,
17Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord GOD Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.
18And the nations were(will be)angry, and GOD's WRATH is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be Judged ( 1Thessalonians 4:14-16),and that GOD should give reward unto His servants the prophets,and to the saints,and them that fear His name,small and great;and should destroy them which destroy the earth.
Be careful and get ready
God bless our faithfulness.
1 Timothy 3:16
Colossians 1:14-20
John 14:6
Isaiah 48:12, Revelation 22:13
My interpretation: Jesus is a big deal. Probably bigger than we realize and He loves us and died for each of us that we may choose to follow Him. God bless.
Jesus is the Scepter of righteousness held out by the Father for the redemption of mankind.
In continuation to 'the fulness thereof' the earth as we observe physically is merely a changeable aberration that fools take as their be-all. What is shakeable in heaven and earth shall pass away, (He.12:27). In heaven Michael fighting fallen angels refers to the angelic revolt mentioned in the vision of Daniel"I beheld till the thrones were cast down"(Dan.7:9-10). " the judgment was set, and the books were opened." Action now moves over to the earth, "And the great dragon was cast out,... and his angels were cast out with him." Following this we have the beast stepping into the world stage where the two witnesses are martyred. We see reference to three and a half days. " And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half."(Re. 11:9) Here we have a tag placed by the Spirit. It distinguishes one set of time period from 42 months as in "But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months." This is to be read with events mentioned in Ch.13:5 "And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months." Similarly one thousand two hundred and three score days is another tag, and the Spirit is using it with reference to the visions. Like thermal imaging it is spiritually discerned. The only infallible course is to remain steadfast in faith, and in Christ. "and by him all things consist."(Col.1:17-19)
"And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth./These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth."(11:3-4)
"The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein./For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods."
He has set his throne as a king, "The Lord sitteth upon the flood; yea, the Lord sitteth King for ever."(Ps.29:10) The phrase, 'forever' assures us the Word of God, the King of Kings, and lord of Lords, "And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God./And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean."(Re.19:13-14) "And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King Of Kings, And Lord Of Lords."(v.16)
His "vesture dipped in blood" is an emblem that is determined by the Word of God. "Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save."(Is.63:1) Here we have Jesus Christ riding out ,the rider on the white horse to conquer and conquering. Before the worlds began we have him fulfilling the determined Will of his Father followed by the cloud of witnesses, 'and in the fulness thereof ' indicate we have no way of knowing by our own intellect. The Word of God determines how and where. He is none other than the Word become flesh, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today and forever.:(He.13:8)
Neither can we conceive foundations for the earth. Hannah referred to it. "He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the Lord's, and he hath set the world upon them."(1 Sa.2:8)
In the light of the above, how shall we interpret this verse? "And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth."(Rev.12:16).
Without stating the obvious which you no doubt have picked up on when lengthy discussions here are in progress & they suddenly cease: for some of us, it's 'why did I even get into this discussion when the other person(s) have suddenly withdrawn just when the end of the matter & our understanding of it are soon before us?' So, I've just learnt to accept that some folk simply either don't have enough knowledge to properly defend their belief, or are hardened in their stand, or even maybe uninterested in taking the matter to its proper resolution or closure. I have often put forward pertinent Scriptures in this matter of the Triunity of God, but not one has come forth to exegete the Word & show why those verses are inapplicable.
So, I'll stop here. This is not just about the matter of the Trinity, rather that this may not be the right Site to expect a heavy protracted examination of the Scriptures on any subject. The best we can do is cite the clear ones (& these have already been done by many here), yet not live in hope that it will go much further than that. GBU.
I wanted to get back to you about my ultrasound on my thyroid. The radiologist said to keep a watch on it by redoing an ultrasound in a year. So, that is good news! No fine needle biopsy needed or any further testing other than a recheck next January. Happy, Happy, Happy!
Been making more soup this week to bring to those who like to have single serve soup in a variety of types. I love doing that and it is very hard to make just a small amount of soup. Made chicken vegetable and chicken tortilla soup this week.
Next, I will make a beef and cabbage soup that is so good and a great mushroom soup I love. then I will stop for awhile since my freezer is getting crowded.
Today when I was washing a handful of grapes to have for a snack, I just stopped and thanked God for providing me with fresh fruit to eat.
The remodel of our bathrooms began on Thursday. I am glad they are starting with the baths because there are five adults living here. We can take a shower in the tub now. And when the master bath is done with the walk in shower, then they will do the other bath with replacing the bath surround and flooring and painting. The wall is patched where they had to access the plumbing. When those things get done, then they will seat the toilet and set the vanities and sinks. It is good to see progress.
Thank you Jesus!
Did God make all angels able to fall, but elected those who He would preserve from falling by grace, in a similar way that He elects to saves us from sin by grace, but not all are elected? And those who fell, did He not elect them to remain holy and true to Him in order to accomplish His plan for creation (which includes the angels and heavenly hosts) which was decided before any creation had occurred?
How much the angels know about the plan of God concerning the historical outcome of creation and about God's eternal plan is a query I think about. I tend to think that they know much more than we do, and the holy angels must have praised the Lord that He preserved them from falling, trusting in what they knew about God's eternal plan. We do not know how much God has shared with the holy angels. We know a lot of the entire sequence of history up to now and what has been prophesied to yet occur because God chose to have His Words be written as Scripture for us. But did He also give information to the angels about how thing will go because they are also creatures of time as we are. Hmmm.
Just some thoughts that came up when I read your post.
I can write my own song on imagining what it will be like with no Satan to deceive men to war and no demons to torment in the Millennium. Or a world living in peace under Christ's rule.
Whether we realize it or not the air is thick with deception; with demonic hosts in high places ruling and twisting men's minds and controlling the affairs of nations.
I live in a suburban area that is well policed and in a school where I haven't even seen a serious fight. I can't be complacent in prayer as there can always be a lone gunman or some unforeseen incident (we had one lockout for an hour or two last year with a suspicious person on the grounds). As far as I know there has only been one tragedy of a student last year run over by a car when jogging; I haven't heard of any suicides. We are warned with training to be on the lookout for such things along with other training. My complacency living this way and having enough to eat; etc. is something for me to watch out for; but also I am aware that people are perishing in nice homes as much as they are in the neighborhoods I would avoid even during the day near me unless anointed to do witnessing.
The verses in 2 Thessalonians 2:6-7 I believe refer to the restraining power of the Spirit as it works in the current church age.
God will do signs and wonders and protect His saints in the Tribulation as well as save countless multitudes so it seems apparent that the Spirit doesn't leave the earth. It is just that as Daniel states they will be overcome; but for now the gates of hell can't prevail against the church.
I truly believe that as bad as the Tribulation is there will also be a sense of relief for those who are His own because there will be no more time for the world to restrain producing fruit; in this time that means martyrdom. Those who die will join us in heaven at once; in spirit form at first to rise later at His raturn.
My last post shows worship for all those who take the mark of the Beast in Revelation 13:8. The world is decieved because of some image of the beast they somehow create. The Antichrist will suffer a deadly wound as Zechariah 11:17 and will be adored because of an apparent "resurrection". My point is that it appears all those who take the mark do so voluntarily; and are unsaved; and all those saved will be given the strength to be martyred and NONE of them will take it. That will require supernatural strength. It seems that torture and limits of human suffering won't be able to force someone to take this mark and thus damn themselves; but it is true that cowards have their place in hell; and I would interpret that to be those who are more concerned about themselves or what man thinks than of fearing God rather than just afraid of suffering. Some of the Jews no doubt will escape and survive with a few others into the Millennial period.
We see shades of the beginning of the Tribulation in the final failed rebellion at the end of the Millennium which will be ended at its inception. The world after the Rapture will probably be convinced that with Christians gone they can finally obtain utopia on earth and in their hearts will think that they can sin with impunity now that we are finally gone as the "salt and light" of the world; or that God has finally somehow given up on this place and man has to rule; or that Christ and God are the aliens from outer space who they have to fight or something to that affect. (I can almost hear John Lennon's song Imagine in the background).
Many forget the exhortation such as an elder in my church has given that we are in "enemy territory" at present. Many forget they themselves were once enemies of God and are tempted to "dumb down" the awful truth of the sorry state of those who are lost and need Christ with some appeal that seeks approval of man instead of uncompromising truth
Revelation 5:12 describes those in heaven praising God but we also see evidence that ALL those on earth will also do the same; even those who are under the earth (possibly the dead souls in hades). I have said before that if the rapture is hidden the RESURRECTION of the dead saints from graves all over the world surely WON'T be able to remain hidden.
There are several themes in scripture that this reminds us of. First the state of all the angels praising God as seen in Job 38:7.
Lucifer fell AFTER this event; how quickly it is unknown but it may have seemed to be a shock to the 2/3 that remained faithful to their state of holiness to see 1/3 fall away with him ( Revelation 12:4 shows the end result). Of course the fall of man brought sudden issues as well. It didn't take long for the first murder to occur with Adam's firstborn son. And we could see shades of the same thing at the tower of Babel shortly after the flood.
What man will crave will be brought about; no doubt by Antichrist's delusion of peace at the first seal ( Rev. 6:1-2). This is going to appear to be a great light of hope (see 2 Cor. 11:14). Shades of the peace and security now will come to the climax with the Daniel 9:27 covenant being CONFIRMED or an original one made stronger (likely what is now known as the Abraham accords).
Whatever illusion of peace that comes will be short lived as the inevitable decay of society will result in the rest of the seal judgments of war; famine and pestilence to kill 1/4 of men (which appears to all occur BEFORE the mark of the Beast).
Those who end up following Antichrist will also worship the dragon (Satan) as seen in Rev. 13:14-18 who gives power to the Beast. They eventually end up fighting God as we see from Psalm 2 and Revelation 19.
Many have argued that out of fear men will be somehow tricked or coerced to take the mark. Revelation 13:8 seems to argue against this as WORSHIP occurs.
For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.
This was brought up recently in a video about the end times; and since I never noticed this verse before, and its importance to what is going on at present I thought I should expound on it a bit. I have trouble finding the history on YouTube but the concept was separation that God is using which will come to fruition starting at the Rapture and during the Tribulation as well.
This is all part of the bigger concept that God uses all things; including the Devil for His own purposes. A strong God fearing church will be able to withstand heresies when they come. Now in this verse those being approved could refer to those who will be elevated to church leadership roles; but of course it also could mean that it shows those who are true saints (wheat) as compared to the tares.
In considering this topic; I also have been contemplating the misuse of the term "love" as compared with the AGAPE which should supercede any affections we have personally and toward others. Matthew 22:42 asks what do ye think of Christ (speaking to the Pharisees). Whether a legalistic approach of pride toward being one of Abraham's natural descendants or a lax liberal mentality toward anything that was regarded as moral standards a couple generations ago Christ is reduced to the level of whatever best suits our imagination rather than held as God in the flesh; high and lifted up our Creator and the sustainer of our natural and eternal existence. 1 Corinthians 13:6 gives further emphasis to this concept; we are not to rejoice in evil but in the good. We also see in the surrounding verses in chapter 13 further details on God's type of love which is helpful for restoration in marriages in particular.
The big picture here shows how the final one world religion is coming; the first part of the Tribulation with Mystery Babylon.