"BATTLE" in Bible Discussions

 
  • Richard H Priday - 1 week ago
    Part 2 on Tribulation and trials to come

    The Laodicean church is what many consider to typify the last stages or phase of church history. It is clear from that passage that only a few there are worthy; as we see in Revelation 3:4 with the church of Sardis as well. The general state is one of a pitiful state of spiritual poverty which the outer adornment; much like the Pharisees cleaning the outer parts of their vessels which appear to be showing opulence. Matthew 25:9 reminds me of those who need to pay the price for receiving the refreshing of the Holy Spirit as it will be with the fiery trial and mass martyrdom of the Tribulation. I see this as an example of those who have patiently waited for the Lord and now receive their reward because of enduring much as Lot did until the Lord rescued him from the disaster to come (see 2 Tim. 4:8). Those who are in a Laodicean church aren't putting themselves or anyone else into persecution as all those who are godly in Christ Jesus suffer ( 2 Tim. 3:12). Whether they are truly saved or not ultimately will be determined by God; I tend to see the Rapture as a reward issue but if I'm wrong then rewards will be lost for those backslidden ( Rev. 3:11); and it is certain many aren't truly saved now but many will wake up on the other side of the rapture; whether left behind people who professed Christ beforehand or new converts.

    As to the second part of my study on the Jews suffering Tribulation first; we can of course see that pattern in many Old Testament passages as well as the many wars in history; the most obvious recent one of worldwide significance being World War two. This current Hamas battle also started with an attack causing suffering to Jews. These verses would show the military campaigns that will occur prior to Armageddon as well when God finally defends His people ( Zech. 14:2) and then the nations are dealt with. The various judgments will be centered on Israel as well.
  • Momsage - In Reply - 1 week ago
    Hello Chrisdube:

    You asked this about the Apocrypha: "So if it wasn't "God inspired," how did it manage to remain between the Testaments for 270+ years?" Why the Apocrypha was included in the KJV until 1885 is a kind of mystery but it shouldn't be a cause to believe in this book as Holy Ghost inspired. What matters is this book contains some very serious false doctrines which proves it is not Holy Ghost inspired.

    In 2nd Maccabees 12: 40-43 it gives credence in giving prayers and alms so that the dead can be forgiven and eventually go to heaven. After a major battle during the preparation for burial of soldiers who had died, it was discovered that each of them was wearing amulets of devotion to pagan gods under their clothes which was sin: "Then under the tunic of each one of the dead, they found sacred tokens of the idols of Jamnia, which the law forbids the Jews to wear. And it became clear to all that this was the reason these men had fallen. So they all blessed the ways of the Lord, the righteous Judge, who reveals the things that are hidden; and they turned to supplication, praying that the sin that had been committed might be wholly blotted out,"

    In Baruch 3:4 it teaches that the dead can pray for themselves to eventually go to heaven. "O Lord Almighty, thou God of Israel, hear now the prayers of the dead Israelites, and of their children, which have sinned before thee, and not hearkened unto the voice of thee their God: for the which cause these plagues cleave unto us.

    In Tobit 9:12 it claims that alms can purge away sin. "For alms doth deliver from death, and shall purge away all sin. Those that exercise alms and righteousness shall be filled with life:"

    So whether we can give a precise reason why God allowed the Apocrypha to be included in the KJB for a time or not, it is a book to be avoided by true believers. God Bless :)
  • Bennymkje - 2 weeks ago
    Matt.26:46-56 "The hour is at hand"

    There is a sharp change of scene between v.45 and v.46.

    In one he required his disciples to keep watch in his hour of sorrow with him. They failed at it. Now he says," Sleep on now, and take your rest."

    Without their aid he was fortified from above. St Luke mentions that in his agony, of an angel from above being present.( Luke 22:43-44) God makes "his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire." When Jesus warns us not to despise 'these little ones' he is referring to their angels. "That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven."(18:10-14). It is not for us to know in what manner but God does not leave those who are least esteemed in the eyes of the world without support. "A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation."(Ps.68:5-6)

    They disciples are let to take ease since his hour was at hand. "For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me."(Ro.15:3) He was about to claim his victory.

    vv.53-54 "Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?/ But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?" Lucan Gospel as mentioned earlier introduces the angel in strengthening Jesus in his agony.This helps us to understand the Angel of the Lord sees to the fulfilment of the scriptures. All His promises are 'yea' in his Son. Jesus speaks of legions of angels which are saints battle girt and shall do valiantly in battle. We see them in St John's vision,"And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean."(Re.19:14). They follow the Word of God which is Person specific. Whether one angel or legions of them what comes to our aid is our Savior Lord, who warned us, "Without me you can do nothing." Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today and forever."
  • Bennymkje - 1 month ago
    Matt.18:13 "Lost and Found" (1 of 2)

    "And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray."

    Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd. God sent his Son so the lost sheep may be found. Bringing them back into one fold means reconciling both worlds of the Spirit and of the body into one sheepfold. ( John 10:1)

    We shall begin with v.11" For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost."(v.11).

    If the sheep lost its way and have not found what it sought is it worth the effort? A sheep is not endowed with foreknowledge as man is. He is a living soul. Satan beguiled Eve through a serpent. How did man get lost even after God gave him the wherewithal? The content of His breath into his nostril sums up the Law that He upholds. It is the word of his power. It explains the Law of the Spirit. The principle of Similitude sets reality of Law of heaven with that of the earth. Thus it is two contrary laws of the Spirit warring the law of sin in our vile bodies nevertheless a matter of life and death. In this existential battle everlasting life is what God promised those who are found.

    The Spirit uses symbols for both laws, the tree of life for those who found their way back as we say from the case of Adam life of sin originating from his disobedience. This search for the lost sheep began with the commandment of God who sent forth his word that shall never go back in void.(Is.55:11)

    In the parable we have the sheep that is ever by the shepherd. "And the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out./And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice./And a stranger will they not follow" ( John 10:3-5). They are the 99 and are content under the Law of the Spirit to stay close "for they know not the voice of strangers." Their glory they know are in safekeeping and the bright cloud is their testimony.
  • Chris - In Reply - 1 month ago
    Hi Jagggard912. This is not an easy question to answer, only because how our minds & hearts have been affected by current govt laws, often apalling court judgements, & the sentiments of society in general. However, since your question relates only to God's view of capital punishment (both by God's Command to His people Israel & His expectancy for the present day we're in), my short answer is, Yes, I believe that nothing has changed before God about sin, of wilful murder & what he expects as the correct punishment to be meted out.

    There is no question about God's requirements in relation to murder, adultery, kidnapping, sodomy, rape, witchcraft, etc. ( Genesis 9:6; Exodus chaps 21, 22, 35; Leviticus chaps 22, 24, & others), though proponents for a 'no capital punishment', will claim that Israel was a theocracy (rule under God alone), whereas Gentiles have their own govts & subject to new laws consistent with the consensus of society's expectations. But has God changed? So, why does God allow govts to enact laws inconsistent with His Requirements? Well, I could confidently say that no govt anywhere, would give much regard to God's Laws & Requirements for the proper functioning of society. Many may have started well, having a strong Judeo/Christian foundation, but having sinful, & many Christ-rejecting men at the helm, given to society's whims & for the on-going battle for votes, some God-honoring Laws are side-lined, if not altogether discarded.

    So what happens when a capital crime is committed (i.e. wilful murder) and is proved beyond doubt with hard evidence & not just circumstantial? Usually, a life sentence in prison, either for life or parole, & rarely the death penalty. If the prisoner is released back into society, whether as a murderer, rapist, child molester, etc., & he re-offends, hardly anyone batters an eyelid, as the prisoner has served his time. But when that criminal offends again, I ask, 'who then are the real criminals?' Society remains mute.
  • Richard H Priday - 1 month ago
    God's apparent contradictions: Examining Psalm 107 compared to Proverbs 1:26-28 and like passages

    We see in the first example God's patience when people were about to head to destruction; either physical or spiritual death or both how throughout several earlier Biblical events God's people were delivered and rescued when at wits end and they called upon His name. The second passage and others such as we find in Jeremiah and Micah to name just two show where God will not hear; and in the case of this section of Proverbs mocks them in their calamity.

    One can generalize of how God chastises all those He loves such as we see in Proverbs 3:12 (just a couple chapters later) and Hebrews 12:6. These techniques were primarily for the nation of Israel in the Old Testament and His church today. Exceptions exist; however such as those who offered profane fire before the Lord in Numbers 16 who deliberately rebelled against God's chosen prophet (Moses) and suffered immediate judgment. Moses surely wasn't the only one either who was saved but couldn't enter the Promised Land (only Caleb and Joshua could from the original generation along with their children).

    In the case of Pagan nations; such as in Psalm 2 and examples of wholesale slaughter in the Old Testament of the nations around Israel were a result of their vile abominations; with child sacrifice being a top thing causing wrath no doubt. Psalm 2 is a parallel to Revelation 19 where those having taken the Mark of the Beast are led by the 3 frog like spirits coming out of Satan's evil "trinity" to be led to Armageddon to fight Christ (although there may be some trickery at first to convince them that they are fighting the last battle for control over the earth by destroying the armies coming against Antichrist.)

    This gives us assurance that those who are His elect will be saved; even if chastisement shortens their earthly existence ( 1 Cor. 11:30). This is the difference between those He hears or not.
  • Bennymkje - 1 month ago
    John 10:1-4 "Not by the door" (2 of 2)

    Pride of Satan will not allow him to be one among many." I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High." He would usurp the place of the Son himself. God made angels spirit so technically a son of God. The angelic revolt in heaven to create an alternate narrative to the Salvation Plan as we may surmise from this verse, "That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose."(Ge.6:2) Without the simplicity of obedience how ludicrous was their plan to create a 'holy' family?. This also throws some light on the separation of light from the darkness. (Ge.1:4)

    "Shall go in and out" When Jesus Christ is the door sheep may go in and out. "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture." Going in and out can be understood at two levels. God gave the revelation of his Son "and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John.". The angel belongs to the sheepfold in the world of the Spirit. Similarly "And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel."(1 Chr.21:1) Hence this warning from St Paul,(Gal.1:8)

    Our struggle is with spiritual wickedness in high places, refers to the world of the Spirit, "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Full armor of God refers the one sheepfold in which we have rested from our own labors and are hid in Christ. So our battles are fought in the world of the Spirit. This also explains why Jesus instructed his disciples, "and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one".( Luke 22:36). "Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me" speaks for one world. The sword is badge of an overcomer in the world of the Spirit.
  • Bennymkje - 2 months ago
    "Number Six" (2 of 2)

    In receiving Christ as the Savior the believer is tagged as the number Seven. Seven in a primary sense is determined in heaven. It speaks for the mystery of his Will. As a new creation The word is his heart or he abides in Christ.(Col.3:1-3). In short Seven is made up of 3+4 (where the sum of 3 the tag for the Son and 4 for the Word become flesh.)

    This brings us to the beast, the son of perdition in whom the word of God has no place; neither does he acknowledge the supremacy of the Son.

    Satan as destroyer is the angel gone rogue. The Spirit introduces Goliath as epitome of spiritual wickedness in high place (Ge.6:1-3). He is a giant a tag as the number 6 signifies. While describing the person the Spirit gives a list of sixes: his height 6 cubits and the steel point of his javelin weighed 6x100 shekels. It ties with another giant, "And there was yet a battle in Gath, where was a man of great stature, that had on every hand six fingers, and on every foot six toes, four and twenty in number; and he also was born to the giant.." (2 Sa.21:20)

    "Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not./ For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets." (Matt.24:23-24) We are looking at the present times. False Christs and false prophets have their spiel to deceive the unwary. Jesus shall appear as a sign, "And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory." (24:27-30)

    He appears to gather and not for reigning the disobedient children of wrath on the earth. "Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him."(Re.1:7)
  • Richard H Priday - In Reply - 2 months ago
    At least we can agree that many modern translations are spurious in part; some are clearly blasphemous or not well translated.

    The other issue which I hate to bring up is that when more than one manuscript is mentioned (such as a few KJV mentions) there could be more than one case which is the inspired version; why can't the truth be slightly different in multiple manuscripts that each have a different part of it? Their own comments vary from saying there is another mansucript that may be equally valid or one that is likely NOT valid originally. We can't prove of course an earlier version HAS to be the correct one as again they are hundreds of years removed from the original texts. This does happen; at times for context. Personally I spend some time reading a lengthy dissertation of NIV as to its errors. I'm not as familiar with other stuff.

    Since we are in a checkmate situation discussing this subject; I will say that we need to consider carefully if we are going to disfellowship with other believers who have a different translation. Many major topics have a similar enough meaning in different versions (I could mention the New King James which may have English more understandable as we speak today). As to what churches we attend that is up to us but those who show fruit of true faith I would think we should choose battles wisely. Also that goes for those who may read the version we approve of but have no evidence of saving faith.

    So anyway not to belabor the point. I'll leave it up to you how to deal with others with this issue.
  • Richard H Priday - 2 months ago
    Prayers answered: Filling the pews in our local church

    Lately there have been a few new attendees in our church; nothing huge of note. We hear often of a desire for "revival" and being in the last days and seeing many so called revivals recently along with certain issues of question and the general warning of apostasy in the last days I am cautious about such prayers myself. But should we see results would we be prepared for the discipling and issues which would arrive complicating the associations we are used to having with such new demands on Sunday?

    Also are we prepared if the enemy should bring in individuals attempting to infiltrate; whether known or unknown by the individual in question that they are an obstacle to the service? And also; would we be ready to LEARN from others who may have giftings or talents we haven't had in droves up to this point?

    To be challenged by others more fervent in prayer; and better versed in scripture who actually are living out what they believe could make some churchgoers uncomfortable. I sense that with teenagers; many may not want to venture into the waters they have to navigate daily in regard to the suicidal and self destructive people they are forced to interact with every day in public schools (not to mention the ungodly teaching). Many are blissfully unaware or wish to avoid the occult practices that are rampant today with youth as well as out and out Satanism on the rise. There is a cost to our personal safety in reaching out to this younger generation but if we don't we are cloistering in our own company and putting our heads in the sand. They have much to teach us of the spiritual battles raging out there; as well as the testimonies of those set free (often without any discipleship for a great length of time).

    In conclusion; if we are a true church of God there should be deliverance available; and we should expect God to act and draw those of all ages and backgrounds in time as He sees fit.

    Agape
  • Richard H Priday - 2 months ago
    The Word as a weapon of God

    As an instructional guide; this is as much a message that I need to hear myself as it is for anyone else. There are endless devotionals with some being superior to others; and of course we should have a time set apart for scripture reading and prayer on a daily basis. I find it much like a tool box; I can familiarize myself with the size and function of every piece in it and what it's use is but not really comprehend from a practical viewpoint how it is used during actual work on a project. (reality check: I once got a 30 percent on a test on my mechanical aptitude and abillity so even my premise is spurious in my case).

    Preaching "in and out of season" ( 2 Tim. 4:2) seems to apply in context mainly to those in the church; but surely laboring to witness to others in fulfilling the Great Commission is another example of when certain scriptures should be memorized and others available should certain questions be asked.

    Other than the Gospels; Psalms are probably the most common scriptures which devotionals contain for meditation. We can as I have brought out in other posts look at the type of Psalm as well as endless applications; but if we can't relate to David and the other authors in the thick of personal battles and develop the same reliance on the Word where God's covenant promises and other attributes are proclaimed for our own lives then it leaves things rather empty. Of course true worship begins with praise.

    That is something that I have attempted to voice in personal and corporate prayer but sadly much of the time it seems out of obligation rather than overflow in my spirit. I know the Lord has saved me as I can recognize His work in others but the hardness of my own heart is appalling. Worries; fears; and other things of this life constantly try to choke out the Word and keep us from rejoicing in the Lord.

    I'll keep this as a sort of open forum for any suggestions for improvement. Let us sharpen each other.
  • Richard H Priday - In Reply - 2 months ago
    It isn't written by direct inspiration of God but is a TRANSLATION which shows; in general respect and is an accurate REPRESENTATION of what was in the original Greek; Aramaic and Hebrew languages.

    Apparently; from my limited knowledge on the subject King James actually wasn't a very big fan of the Bible but allowed for what is a decent translation. I believe from what I heard that the Apocrypha was in some of the original editions. Clearly; there were earlier editions such as the Geneva Bible from the 1500's and the Tyndale (whose author was murdered apparently).

    The Catholic Bible apparently was written about the same time period (I am not sure of all the accuracy or lack thereof of the Douay Rheims) except to say there appear to be some doctrinal issues and of course the Apocrypha which IS not inspired text is included. It should be noted that even Catholic commentators will admit this fact; but also justify the bizarre additions to such books as Daniel with a wild story about dragons and such after chapter 12.

    I would even state that ANY version of the Bible even copies of manuscripts are not guaranteed 100 percent the inspired Word of God as it was in the ORIGINAL manuscripts which WERE 100 percent accurate. What I am saying here is that there are different COPIES of manuscripts; some of which may have sections added or missing (such as part of the text about the woman caught in adultery at the end of John 7 and beginning of John 8). Since we only have copies of the original text this happens on occasion as well as details about the number of people killed in certain battles; for instance. That being said there is no reason to suspect that anything is false in these different manuscripts and these are mainly trivial issues.

    When we can find cross references which we do in almost all scripture we can be certain that the meanings of the original writings are preserved. In the original TORAH every LETTER had to be the same in a new copy.
  • Bennymkje - 2 months ago
    "The Cross and the Sword" (1 of 2)

    In Lucan gospel we have a saying of Jesus, coming as it is from the Servant-King is atypical. "Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one"( Luke 22:35).

    St Luke makes it clear that the sword was their emblem of a new order they were entering into. It also fits with the subtext the narrative carrying along. As associates of Jesus they were also part of the kingdom he had promised (vv.29-30).

    Symbolism of the sword is for every saint redeemed from the earth and they follow the white rider on a white horse. He is part of the great army following in the rear. "In righteousness he doth judge and make war." (Re.19:11). The sword is not forged in any fire kindled by man but from the fire that was symbolically present in the night vision of Daniel. The Ancient of day sat on a throne, "His throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire." (Dan.7:9) As human events unfold in earth this fire was streaming as with river of time.

    (See entry under R-River of time)

    The inaugural vision of St John made a composite image of the Father and the Son. The sword of the Spirit, 'which is the word of God' and it clears every offending thing, the remnant of iniquity, "were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth."(Re.19:21).

    As Jesus is wrapping up earthly ministry they disciples were to be watchful (" Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning./ Lest coming suddenly he find you sle"- Mark 13:35-36) It was to be in readiness as soldiers awaiting the command of their Messiah-King for the battle. In the Gospel of St Matthew we have this: "Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword(Matt.26:51)".
  • Bennymkje - 2 months ago
    "Cross"

    The cross first came into use as an emblem of Christianity after. Constantine the Great in 313 AD (on the eve of a crucial battle) seemed to have seen a flaming cross in the heavens bearing the inscription, "In hoc signo vinces", meaning 'By this sign thou shalt conquer'. Accordingly he adapted the cross and called it the Labarum.

    Be that as it may a cross has two arms crossed so by mode of inversion he that came down from heaven is the same who ascended and the central beam tells its own story. ( John 3:13) The Son of man came down to fulfil the will of his Father. So the cross plank signifies the gospel he preached and his Great Commission connects the far ends of the earth into one fold.

    Cross has undergone many shapes as the doctrine of God is suitably altered each after his own fashion. St Andrews cross is as different from St Antony's cross; for that matter Greek Orthodox cross differs from Latin cross. Despite of what names given to the type of cross, spiritual meaning can only be understood by taking up his cross and follow the way he chose. "He that shall endure to the end, the same shall be saved"(Matt.24:13)

    A cross is this made up two aspects in the ministry of Reconciliation in which direction and position bind heaven and the earth as one.

    He became a curse for us fulfilling the provision of the Law of Moses. "Because anyone who is hung on a pole is under God's curse".(De.21:23) God willed also his Son to be the one who redeemed mankind. "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us,(Gal.3:13).

    His doctrine in the Son gave a position for all those who believed in God through his Son. He became the captain of their salvation from one end to the other.
  • Tunney on Acts 28 - 2 months ago
    May we be faithful in our belief in the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and carry out GOD'S desire to reach lost souls.

    Praying for the peace in Jerusalem, and for the people to receive the gospel of JESUS CHRIST. Let us as believers put on the armor of GOD and go forth into the spiritual battle raging around us.

    Let us pray for our leadership, on all levels, to have the mind and heart of the LORD.

    May we be blessed and a blessing unto all who the LORD guides to us.

    The LORD to shine HIS face on all who trust and believe in HIM.

    January 7, 2024
  • Oseas - In Reply - 2 months ago
    Richard H Priday

    Greetings in Christ JESUS

    Reading your post of one day ago,saying if we are to look at the Seventh Day Adventists and their teachings of Ellen White it is clear that there are spurious elements there.As was prophesied by Daniel, the Judgment shall sit,the Judgment will be given to the saints of the most High;the time came that the saints possess the kingdom.By the way,I must say that I have come across and fought for decades with strong battles and terrible combats against atheists and materialists, anf for my surprise the most of them were/are people who abandoned or stopped attending the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

    Why is it that after the preachers/guides/pastors of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to compass sea and land to make proselytes, and after these proselytes attend their services for years,they leave the Adventist Church transformed into atheists,materialists? Unfortunately they made them twofold more the child of hell than themselves.

    The earth is infested with betrayers who deny the existence of GOD,there are legions of them spread across the earth with which I have come across and fought for decades with strong battles and terrible combats,mainly through websites.I could quote the website links,I don't do due the rules.

    See,the objective is not to condemn any brother or sister here.What does the Word of GOD say? James 5:

    19Brethren,if any of you do err from the truth,and one convert him;

    20Let him know,that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death,and shall hide a multitude of sins.

    1Corinthians 6:

    1Dare any of you,having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust,and not before the saints?

    2Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the WORLD?and if the WORLD shall be Judged by you(by us),are ye(we)unworthy to Judge the smallest matters?

    3Know ye not that we shall Judge angels?(fallen angels of the Churches) how much more things that pertain to this life?

    GOD BLESS
  • Richard H Priday - 2 months ago
    God's jealousy: Chastisement or judgment

    There have been a number of posts where I have brought up the fact that God chastises all those He loves ( Heb. 12:6; Proverbs 3:12). The alternative to that is eventually the judgment of our works; which of course without Christ leads to damnation as no one does good; not even one ( Rom. 3:11-12; Psalm 53:3).

    What hasn't been discussed is the fact that those living through the same event could personally be experiencing chastisement or judgment depending on the state of the individuals in question. This can be illustrated in 1 Cor. 10:1-5 where everyone went through the sea but God's displeasure caused many to die. In fact; only Joshua and Caleb were to survive from that generation to enter the Promised Land. Moses himself could only see it from afar. This is not to say that all were lost who came out of Egypt who peerished in an eternal sense (as we see with Moses); but the pattern is there. God performed what He promised in deliverance; despite the complaints in the wilderness He provided for their needs.

    This pattern can be seen in the judgments of Revelation. God uses the Tribulation to purify His people and bring a countless multitude to the Lord through martyrdom ( Rev. 7:9-11 etc). There are also those with the mark of God who may be so spiritually pure that chastisement is not really needed ( Rev. 7:1-8).

    Clearly even today the attitude of someone in this life in a similar situation is vastly different depending if they are walking in the Spirit or in the flesh. Luke 12:48 shows the principle of more responsibility to those who are given much; that is we have the Spirit of God who has overcome the world living in us as saints. We have overcome the world but are still living in the world ( John 17:16-26).

    We must always remember that Christ has won the war; we are in battles leading to the inevitable victory against a vanquished foe. Let your light shine therefore before men ( Matt. 5:16).
  • Tunney on Exodus 31 - 2 months ago
    Our SAVIOR, GOD the LORD JESUS CHRIST is faithful in all HIS promises. Whatever we need to accomplish HIS work, HE will provide.

    Ephesians 4:

    11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

    12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

    13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

    2 Timothy 3:

    .

    16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

    17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.



    Although the work may be important, there is nothing more important than to spend a "rest time" with the LORD.

    As CHRIST always had a time of rest, and prayer with HIS FATHER; let us do the same that we may be restored spiritually, physically as we await the coming of our KING of Glory, the LORD of HOST.

    Ps 24:8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.

    9 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.

    10 Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.

    Numbers 6:

    24 The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:

    25 The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:

    26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.

    Happy New Year, brethren! Our redemption is near.

    December 30, 2023
  • Richard H Priday - 3 months ago
    Praying offensively rather than defensively

    The only offensive weapon in Ephesians 6 is the sword of the Spirit. Today's megachurches have tended to make things into a sideshow by defining success as someone with a lot of possessions. Indeed God CAN honor a prayer regarding material things but it is unwise and naive to ignore verses such as Deuteronomy 17:17; for it can lead to total apostasy later when greed takes over.

    Playing games to underestimate the intensity of the evil we face does no one any favors either. Those who would be hesitant to warn sinners of their grievous state and need of repentance so as not to "offend" anyone are probably the same ones who downplay how serious the conflict is with the demonic horde under Satan that have pretty well taken over society; and worse the church in a large part making those who want to engage in serious battle seem like they are outcasts. Worse still there are many who look at Satan as somehow ruling over hell (as opposed to perhaps guarding Hades in the past as seen in those held captive described in Psalm 68:18). Men are blinded because of their own sin but 2 Corinthians 4:4 shows how Satan is the agent the Lord allows to keep men in this state. Part of praying for someone may indeed be for the enemy to cause enough misery for them to cry out to the Lord; this seems commonplace for those who are Prodigal type individuals.

    We see when multiple people in particular persevere in prayer for someone things often eventually happen. For those who won't respond; often they are taken away and we never have contact with them again. We don't have the luxury of knowing if anyone has another day on this earth; but we do know the Lord will save all of His elect.

    Also; of course the praiseworthy attributes of God's Holiness; power; might; honor and glory should be acclaimed with conviction. This comes from TRUE worship in song and scripture reading. It also comes from a broken and contrite heart ( Ps 51
  • Bennymkje - 3 months ago
    Bible Dictionary/ excerpt-3

    Achan

    Achan

    At the fall of Jericho Achan secretly appropriated some of the spoils of war to himself, disregarding that these were dedicated to the Lord. Joshua had before the battle declared " And ye, in any wise keep yourselves from the accursed thing,.., and make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it."(Josh.6:18). Because of his sin Israel lost the following battle of Ai, and the reason was revealed to Joshua from the Lord. Achan and his family were stoned to death and their bodies along with possessions were burned in the valley of Achor. (See entry below-Achor)

    (Is.65:10). What does the Spirit aim at with the example of Achan? A disciple' forsaking all for the kingdom of heaven' is to treat appropriating other man's riches as foolhardy as that of Achan. Foolish ministers of our times who espouse prosperity belong to who St Paul would classify as 'reprobate concerning the faith'. (2 Ti.3:7-8)

    Achor, the valley of

    "A place for the herds to lie down in." (Is.65:10,9) The valley of despair becomes a place for the shepherds to take ease. For Israel it also points a door of hope. (Hos.2:15) Jesus Christ is that door. " I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture."( John 10:9)
  • Richard H Priday - 3 months ago
    Matthew 2:18

    The statement of weeping in Ramah is echoed here from the passage in the Old Testament in Jeremiah. This signifies another one of Satan's attempts to wipe out the godly seed; reflecting the age old battle started in Genesis 3:15.

    When we see the story of Christ from His birth to His death Satan was given license to come within inches of his goal; in the former situation killing every male child through Herod's persecution except for that of Joseph and Mary which was thwarted by supernatural intervention ( Matt. 2:13-23) after the Magi were warned previously to return to their homeland by a different route whence they came. No doubt at His death Satan thought he was granted total success in killing the Son of God at the cross but Judas Iscariot at least realized that he had been part of killing a just man; sadly it was worldly sorrow rather than godly sorrow leading to repentance in this case. Satan and the demons; unlike man KNOW who Christ is; as James states the demons believe and tremble ( James 2:19). The forces of evil should have known that a member of the Godhead is indeed invincible; even over death; certainly Satan's defeat echoing the prophecy in Genesis about his head being destroyed was at least partially fulfilled; I would argue in Revelation comes another fulfillment; with the deadly wound healed of Antichrist Satan's agent; then the destruction of Antichrist and later Satan Himself in Revelation 19 through 22.

    Time after time in the history of the Word we see nearly complete attempts to wipe out man; Satan corrupted men (I would argue through the Nephilim and their offspring) so that only Noah and his small family were saved out of it; the attempt to destroy God's lineage was also repeated with the attempted massacre of all the Jews in Esther's time; the Holocaust; and throughout history until today. During the Tribulation again he will fall short (see Zechariah 13:8 for example).

    May we rejoice that His victory is assured.
  • Tunney on Ezekiel 17:22 - 3 months ago
    Our LORD JESUS CHRIST is always in charge, so we need not fret or worry for the the things we are facing in our country now. All true saints are blessed; however, we pray for the lost and harden hearts to find CHRIST before they go into eternity.

    We are encouraged to trust in HIS word and lift up our leadership in prayer. Our duty is to stand in the gap and make a hedge for all as we take the battle to the spiritual wicked in high places. Armour up saints, "...taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." Ephesians 6:16

    Let us all be prayed up as we go before the LORD'S throne of grace on the behalf of the peace in Jerusalem, the saints in Armenia, the need for spiritual wisdom in DC, courage in our pulpits to preach the whole counsel of the LORD GOD. Thank YOU FATHER for CHRIST'S salvation and our place in heaven.

    Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year unto all on this platform. December 20, 2023
  • Tunney on 1 Timothy 1 - 3 months ago
    My faith must be on the truth of GOD and not v4...to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.

    Let us all put on the armor of GOD and go in to battle prepared against the spiritual wickedness before us.

    GOD to shine HIS blessed face on all who are on this platform. Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year to all in CHRIST JESUS name.

    December 19, 2023

    Even so LORD, come!
  • Oseas - 3 months ago
    PROPHECIES's VOICES-GET READY

    Matthew 24

    4Take heed that no man deceive you.

    6And ye will hear of wars and rumours of wars(Ukraine,Israel, Venezuela):see that ye be not troubled:for all these things must come to pass,but the END is not yet.

    10And then shall MANY be offended, and shall BETRAY one another, and shall HATE one another.

    12And because INIQUITY shall abound, the love of MANY shall wax cold.

    22And except those days should be SHORTENED, there should no flesh be saved:but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.

    AMEN

    23Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not.

    ATENTION

    GOD shall send them strong DELUSION, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the Truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness (2The.2:11-12.

    WARNING

    1Ti. 4:1-2

    1Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils(doctrines of DEMONS- 2Corinthians 11:13-15);

    2Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

    THE RED DRAGON - BE CAREFUL AND GET READY

    Re.12:3-4- Behold a great red Dragon, having 7 heads and 10 horns, and 7 crowns upon his heads. And his TAIL DRAGGED after him (TAIL? Isaiah 9:15-16&14 combined with 2Corinthians 11:13-15.Take a look) the third part of the stars of heaven...(stars?Look Jude 1:13 and you will know who the stars are).

    A SATANIC TRINITY

    Abraham's descendants had to pass through the Red Sea,the Lord's Church has to pass through the Red Dragon.Get ready.

    Re.16:13-15

    13And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.

    14For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles,which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world,to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.

    15 Behold,I come as a thief.

    Get ready
  • Richard H Priday - 3 months ago
    You are a marked man.

    If we compare Revelation 7:3 with the mark of the Beast in Revelation 13:16-17 we see a mark of ownership; in reality representing either God in the first instance; and Satan in the second. The exact appearance of God's mark is not given while that of the Beast is identified in the original language as "chargma" if I have the spelling right. That is something on or just beneath the skin; whether it is a sort of tattoo or computer chip it allows the world to visibly give allegiance to Antichrist.

    God knows the hearts of men; and all those He foreknew to be called and chosen; as well as those who are reprobate or unbelievers. Satan is well aware of who we are as believers; as it is the only threat to his kingdom on earth at present.

    Tne mark of Cain gave him the ability to avenge sevenfold anything done against him. ( Gen. 4:15). This was something identifiable which avoided his immediate demise; perhaps showing the future fulfillment of the mark of the Beast for temporary protection from the executioners and the wrath of men under Satan's pogrom. Following the god of this world always leads to death and destruction of self as well as others. Dying to self to follow Christ brings eternal life.

    Of course it is no fun having a target on our back; even now that the enemy is constantly attempting to fling fiery darts at us ( Ephesians 6:16). We should take heart; as he has no time to waste attacking those who are already in his camp and under his control whose unregenerate hearts are blinded to the glorious gospel of truth ( 2 Cor. 4:4). Absent from the body we are present with the Lord ( 2 Cor. 5:8). God is in charge of the day of our death; the enemy can only be permitted to do anything against us. The final conflagration in Revelation 19 when we return in the armies of heaven with Christ who destroys the Beast and his armies is inevitable; the war is won we just fight battles and skirmishes leading up to His victory.
  • Carleton - In Reply - 4 months ago
    Good morning Bennymkje, Thank you for what hou have stated. Finally my thoughts on the 5th seal are referring to many who went first in believing in the Life giving Blood of Jesus Christ into Heaven. These Saints though many of them were cruelly persecuted unto death persevered without vengeance to man as they knew they were unworthy for this cause.The slain are looking for the time while under the altar of rest now in white robes, citizens of the new and better kingdom, are wondering when the Lord's vengeance of this Evil in earth will be finished. They know how Satan stood against them in latter times just as Satan stood against God's people that looked past their condition in weakness as seen in Zechariah towards Jesus. This battle is only won in the flesh of the Jesus as only He was able to stand up against Satan and his angels. The view of the 5th seal looks to be a heavenly view as time is coming to a close like the end of a day.
  • Carleton - 4 months ago
    Good evening, guess some of the seals are on the mind this evening.

    In Zechariah 3:1-4 Joshua was with an angel of the LORD and Satan was there to resist him. Though Jerusalem was precious in the Lord's eye, Satan looked down on Israel not able to keep the Commandments of God and thus remaining in filthy garments, yet, God rebukes Satan and changes Joshua's raiment by taking away his iniquity.

    The white robes of the fifth seal were also a change of raiment for the souls that were slain for the word of God and were given rest under the alter until their fellow servants and their brethren lives were also taken.

    What these Saints had battled was Satan and his angels standing up against them as they washed their filthy garments in the blood of the Lamb at Calvary. These Saints are asking how long will the Lord wait to avenge their blood on the earth. It would be likely the vengeance they are asking for is against evil spirits standing against man's salvation.
  • S Spencer - In Reply - 4 months ago
    Amen Brother Chris.

    These times shouldn't be no surprise,

    These days were prophesied.

    We have to be aware of Satan's schemes. Some of this is his distraction.

    I try to warn others of the schemes and remind them of who's behind them, not really interested in the debates.

    Everyone amongst us is not of the wheat. Some or tares,

    Every debate doesn't Identify the wheat or tares.

    We Brothern sometimes end up in a debate but it shouldn't cause hate.

    Hate for the Brothern signifies one lacking the Spirit of Christ.

    Also we do not abandon the flock and join league with an enemy of the faith, "one who denies the work of the cross" just to be contentious.

    The Holyspirit wouldn't cause us to do that!

    It's not flesh and blood where the battle lies. It's a spiritual warfare. It's the spirit of truth what is being attacked by the father of lies.

    There were warnings in early church of this very thing.

    We must not let certain doctrinal debates consume us and begin a life long study trying to combat them, We can lead ourselves astray and neglect the great commission.

    That's the primary attack of Satan.

    When you see one join league with this movement or individual they have joined them in their work and shouldn't be spared.

    Psalms 1:1 says Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

    God bless you and others for all that you do Brother.
  • Oseas - In Reply - 4 months ago
    "Mary Jay"

    You quoted Revelation 15:4 in your post which will LITERALLY be fulfille from now on, day after day, and Revelation 6:15-17 reveal that

    15 The kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid(wiil hide)themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;

    16 saying to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of Him that sitteth on the throne, and from the WRATH of the Lamb:

    17 For the great Day of His WRATH(the seventh and last Day or seventh and last millennium) is come; and who shall be able to stand?

    Matthew 25:34 and 41 NS 46

    34 Then shall the King say unto them on His right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

    41 Then shall He say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the Devil and his angels: 46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

    2 Peter 3:11-12 and 7-8

    11 Seeing then that all these things shall be DISSOLVED(dismantled), what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,

    12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the Day of GOD(the Lord's Day, the seventh Day or seventh millennium), wherein the heavens being on fire shall be DISSOLVED(i.e. the two Covenants will be DISSOLVED), and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?(Yes, GOD is a devouring /consuming fire-See Isaiah 33:12-14)

    7 But the heavens(two Covenants)and the earth(Israel,the dry land,the clay),which are now,by the same Word are kept in store,reserved unto fire against this Day of Judgment and perdition of ungodly men.

    8 But,beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing,that one Day is with the Lord as a thousand years,and a thousand years as one Day.

    The battle is/will be against three unclean spirits like frogs-Re.16:13-15-(why frogs?)

    Get ready
  • Oseas - 4 months ago
    Acts 17:30-31

    30And the times of this ignorance GOD winked at;but now commandeth all men every where to repent:

    31Because He hath appointed a Day,in the which He will Judge the world in righteousness by that man whom He hath ordained; whereof He hath given assurance unto ALL men,in that He hath raised him from the dead.

    Mat.28:18-And JESUS came and spake unto them,saying,All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

    Luke 10:19-20

    19Behold,I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions,and over ALL the power of the enemy:and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

    20Notwithstanding in this rejoice not,that the spirits are subject unto you;but rather rejoice,because your names are written in heaven.

    Joel 2:1-11

    1Blow the trumpet in Zion,sound an alarm in my holy mountain:let all the inhabitants of the land tremble:the Lord's Day comes...

    2A Day of darkness and of gloominess,a Day of clouds and of thick darkness...a great people and a strong there has not been ever the like,neither shall be any more after it...

    3A fire devoures before them;and behind them a flame burns:the land is as the garden of Eden before them,and behind them a desolate wilderness...

    5Like the noise of chariots on the tops of mountains shall they leap, like the noise of a flame of fire that devoures the stubble,as a strong people set in battle array.

    6Before their face the people shall be much pained...

    7They shall run like mighty men;they shall climb the wall like men of war;and they shall march every one on his ways,and they shall not break their ranks:

    8...and when they fall upon the sword,they shall not be wounded.

    9They shall run to and fro in the city;they shall run upon the wall, they shall climb up upon the houses;they shall enter in at the windows like a thief.

    10The earth shall quake before them...

    11And the Lord shall utter His voice before His army:His camp is very great:He is strong that executes His Word:the Day of the Lord is great,very terrible;and who can abide it?


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