Leaderboard

I read a little book* this morning that really simplified my thinking. It said that there are really only two religions in the world - the religion that says we must do something to please God; and the one that says it has already been done in Christ! Put another way, one is a religion and the other is actually a relationship. Therefore our role is simply to believe (in Christ & His wonderful & complete atonement work) and let (Him operate in and through us)! What great blessings He has bestowed on us . . . this is truth and The Truth is making us free! * "done." by Cary Schmidt

Having been raised in the RC church, then becoming born again when believing the Gospel, I am rather prejudiced against the system that held me in bondage and pretended to provide salvation through penance and good works. I cannot see anyone's heart and would never condemn nor affirm someone's status before God. Was he saved? I don't know either, but I do know that his status as a monsignor nor his good works could play any part in salvation. The RCC does not teach salvation by grace through faith alone in the death burial and resurrection of Jesus. They teach another gospel as Galatians 1 warns us about. Individuals within that system can be saved but not because they have followed RCC doctrine. I refrained from naming the denominations that teach false gospels lest I be misunderstood by individuals in them and lessen my witness to them of the true Gospel at a future date, but yes you are correct about the movie and I saw it as propaganda for them while telling the true account of this man. Being the Pope, Billy Graham, or Mohammed with a million good works won't save you. God judges man's heart as to whether he has believed the Gospel. Faith releases God's power to save. "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek." Romans 1:16

@Michael37 You end your post asking "What's your story?" so allow me to share a 4th topic that changed my perspective in all areas of my life: Sense of entitlement. More than a decade ago, a few things were not going well for me and I didn't know why, until I came across one of those silly lists that people share, with a title like "5 things that are preventing you from being happy". I have some prejudices against this kind of stuff, but the last topic was "Sense of entitlement" and my scornful smile was immediately humbled. Most of my issues had roots on that "sense of entitlement". And then I remembered Joseph, Daniel, Jesus(!!), the prophets, the disciples, the persecuted... and thought "Who am i?! who am i to think that i am owed even the air that I breath? Some people are in jail for being Christians, for doing what is right. Who am I, with this plate of cookies in front of me?" We know what sailors say: Prepare for the worst, hope for the best.

The Lord does not approve of complacency on our part. There is something worth writing about, things I do not share otherwise. Have I endured hardship? Indeed. Hardship was my life in this world until everything except for the life in this body was taken away. This can happen to some in combat zones: the zone changes them so that they can never go home again. There was a soldier during the Gulf War who said this to his section chief: "I can never go home." He never did. Something similar happened to me in this life. After the Lord raised me up to be a man again, He promised that nothing would be the same. I didn't understand His words until they started unfolding before my eyes. Whereas in the past I lived life waiting for the hammer to fall --- it always did, sometimes sooner than later --- the opposite was happening. I would wait for the hammer to fall and instead of disaster, blessings would fall like rain all around me. My adopted mother defeated cancer and the damage to her liver was miraculously "rolled back" so that she wasn't in danger any longer. Her heart softened toward the Lord. No one and nothing disturbed the peace on her land again, and this was the promise the Lord made after He poured His Spirit upon me. She would live the rest of her days in peace knowing that she was loved. Not long before sudden illness took her, the Lord sent a dream wherein He displayed that my time on her land was coming to an end, and that He would take her. When I woke from that dream, He told me not to despair. Nothing on this earth endures forever, said the Lord. I would not remain on her ranch. That's how nothing was the same again. I was no longer ignorant of His will and instead of calamity, the Lord encourages me to stand and walk confident not in myself, but confident in Him. When I said, "Lord, I can be a terrible man." He assured me that I would not lack for a teacher in Him. I continue to overcome the war zone I lived and breathed in for so long, and I learned the wise alternative to expecting the worst: Accepting that whatever befalls me is according to His will and purpose.

"singular unpardonable sins?" Didn't know there was more than one. Shucks... A lot of tough meat there to chew on, and swallow, or not. Thank God for his word, at the exclusion of man's ideas. Well, I know who I have believed in. And, I have been convinced. God alone is able to keep that understanding I have committed/believed to Him. Till he appears. I am not able to keep myself saved, but He is. As says the word. Never leave nor forsake me. Not I but Christ! No codicils implied/added. It's what I believe, even amongst so many 'new revelations' floating around. Theologian I'm not. Spirit led I (hope/pray) am. (We're getting close when even the elect may/will be deceived) Thanks, Dennis. I shall ponder the replies to come... You always make me think..

I am going to go on a short tangent of what a prophet is, and what it entails. Prophesy is a gift of the Spirit (1 Cor 12). A prophet is one who has this gift, and shares the wisdom of God as the Spirit moves him, in a way that is understood by his listeners. The wisdom of God is not limited to foretelling future events, which is how the world perceives the idea of prophesy. Most true prophesy today deals with us, and our relationship with God today and forever, in all of its aspects. The gift of prophesy is greater than the gift of tongues. 1 Corinthians 14:5 I would that ye all spake with tongues but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. If prophecy were merely the telling of future events, particularly end times events, we would have no need for prophecy or prophets. We have already been given these prophesies. And anyone who would seek to alter them, would not be held blameless by God. Revelation 22:18-19 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. Prophets today interpret the events today in the context of the past, present, and future that God has already foretold. With that said, was this man you met a prophet? I don't know. But if he loved God, and Jesus was, and is his Lord, then he is a son of God. And it doesn't get better than that. And it's forever. And so is the love of God. The Spiritual gifts will someday be unnecessary. We will see Jesus face to face. 1 Corinthians 13:8-10 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. Jesus is the perfection to come in his fullness of power.

The answer is here: 1Co 14:1-3 Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. (2) For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. (3) But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.

I Believe in what He did, done, then I work. (created to do good works for what God has done) vs... I work, done, believe in what I did. (created to believe in my works for what I have done)

I am very much a busy body ... my body is always in motion ! My tongue however is placed INSIDE my mouth so it may stay private

The Lord does whatever He pleases. It pleases Him to declare the end of a matter in the beginning (Isaiah 46:10) just as He has does whenever He sets a task before me. Before it begins, the Lord declares how it will end. It's been that way ever since God poured His Spirit upon me in the mountains. The day before the gang who had been terrorizing my adopted mother left for good, the Lord declared what would happen. They would flee in terror --- scattered like leaves in the wind --- and never return. That's exactly what happened. Before I came to this city the Lord declared where I would go and what would happen after I arrived. Every word was true. I've never been the least bit concerned with scoffers, revilers, unbelievers, and the like. Religion hardens hearts, brother. Instead of listening for His voice and heeding what He says, a system of beliefs governs the heart and mind of the religious. They worship idols of their own making, blind to the living God who reveals Himself to those who love Him. Leaders? Never forget the words of the Lord regarding leaders: And do not be called leaders; for only One is your Leader, that is, Christ. (Matthew 23:10 NASB)

When personal prophesies have been given to me, the genuine ones have all been confirmation of something God had already told me. However, most have been false. One in particular was an accusation. I prayed about it and opened the Bible randomly to an Old Testament page and pointed my finger to a verse that proclaimed it was a lie. I rarely have done this and being skeptical I randomly reopened to a New Testament passage that turned out to be a quotation of the previous passage saying again that it's a lie! We are told that the truth will set you free, and at that moment the heaviness that had come over me totally left and I felt light and free. We are also told that satan is the accuser of the brethren. I had the witness of Scripture to not believe that personal prophecy. At one time I attended a pentecostal church. Many of the members were there because they had been kicked out of their mainline denomination upon receiving a spiritual gift! They were told it was contrary to the churches doctrine. Someone asked whey the gifts don't occur in the Baptist church--That is why. When they do the people are asked to leave. Others who experienced this were Lutheran. While in this church they were contemplating construction a new building. While praying about it I saw myself and family worshipping in a gymnasium. As it turned out, we changed to a Baptist church so I never saw what they built. However, after attending the crowded little church for several months we learned that the new addition they were building was to be a gymnasium that would double as their new sanctuary. We worshipped there for nearly 20 years. When we again changed it was to a Calvary Chapel. We first worshipped in a remodeled shopping center for 2 years, then a community center for 2 more years, and for the last 15 years in a gymnasium! Why God showed me this I don't know, except perhaps to confirm that this is where He wanted us. When giving a prophecy in church God always gives me a short phrase to speak out and then either gives me more words or I see something taking place that I describe. So I never am never given a whole prophecy that I could take to the elders to be judged. It is something that unfolds as I speak out in faith. Very rarely have I been given a personal prophecy for another person. Like others here I am very wary of self proclaimed prophets. As one lady put it, "Well, Willa, If God could speak through Balaam's ass, I suppose He can speak through you!"

Yes, poetic license allows us to use terms metaphorically. In this case Paul is illustrating how it is possible to build on the foundation of Jesus Christ with trite and fanciful principles, programs, and projects of no eternal value, which disposable things will qualify as a loss to those responsible for them, and how things that are worth keeping and things that are theologically solid will endure, being of eternal value. Scope of Metaphor: 1Co 3:10 According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. The fact that all the physical elements of the world dissolve is not the main scope of the metaphor, but rather that heed should be taken to build with things that endure beyond the temporal realm. 2Pe 3:11-13 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, (12) looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? (13) Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.

You misconstrued the intent of my example. I am not arguing for the good, bad, or otherwise of the COVID vaccination, to each their own. It was a voluntary decision that governments tried to make mandatory, resulting in penalties, harassment, and social isolation. I emphasized how quickly something can be implemented globally and compared it to the MOB. I am not so ignorant to think a vaccination could be the M.O.B., nor imply it. To define the meaning of fiasco, I used. There was no official clarification or consensus on where and how it occurred. Mosques, synagogues, etc., were not harassed, fined, or jailed, only churches, to my knowledge. Liquor stores and porn shops were deemed essential services and remained open, not to mention the Congressional hearings with Anthony Fauci with what was discovered.

Psalm 112:1 Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in his commandments!

Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 1 but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 1 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known Has knowledge passed away? when will these things pass away? When completion comes. When does completion come? when we see him face to face. according to this scripture tongues and prophesy will be here until Christ returns

In the passage where Jesus mentions the unpardonable sin, the context shows what is was: Matt 12:31 - Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. 12 - Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the one to come. The context is: 27 - And if I drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons drive them out? So then, they will be your judges. 28 - But if I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. So we see that those who witnessed miracles of Jesus and claimed that He was casting out demons by Beelzebub were committing the unpardonable sin. iow, they were so hardened in their denial of Jesus being the Messiah that even miracles didn't convince them. They attributed miracles done by the Holy Spirit through Jesus was Satan. The unpardonable sin is no longer applicable since no one after Jesus' ministry saw His miracles and attributed them to Satan. There is only one condition for salvation, clearly stated in Paul's answer to the jailer's question of what he MUST DO to be saved: believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. No need to comment on every verse and commentary, but none of them speak of losing salvation. Yes, and that sacrifice has been made on behalf of everyone. If one "has not believed" in Christ, they will be condemned. John 3:18 and 2 Thess 2:12 both say that condemnation is for those who "have not believed". That clearly means those who NEVER believed. Because once a person HAS believed in Christ for salvation, they are eternally saved. John 5:24 - Jesus taught that those who believe (present tense) HAS (present tense) {possesses} eternal life. Then, in John 10:28 Jesus said: "I give them eternal life and they shall never perish". He was teaching from both verses that from the MOMENT of faith in Christ, the person is eternally secure.

Not true.

Reminders – Neither Rank nor Works can Save I watched an old movie this week about a high-ranking religious official who risked his life during WWII to help allied soldiers evade capture by the Nazis. This true story featured a very likeable actor portraying a very likeable hero, who helped save thousands of lives. (He reminded me of the factory owner Oskar Schindler, in the movie “Schindler’s List” that many of us are familiar with.) What affected me most about the movie was the ending that infered that this man was a virtuous Christian because of his rank within his denomination and the good works he performed to help others. Though perhaps admirable, neither of these things are requirements nor guarantees of salvation and Christianity. The elevation of ‘special people’ within a denomination or sect, as a sign of God’s favor is a false assumption. There have been many who have gained high esteem, who have then been proved to be charlatans. They usually have charismatic personalities and assume intellectual or spiritual power over unsuspecting and gullible sheep. Mary Baker Eddy, E.G. White, Joseph Smith, and Charles Russell, were all 19th century creators of today’s major non-Christian cults. Jim Jones, Sun Myong Moon, and Acharya Rajneesh come to mind as more recent cult leaders. Of course, the mastermind of them all is Satan, who started out as the highest, smartest, and most beautiful of all God’s angels. Another false assumption is that good works are a conclusive sign of God’s salvation. When Adam fell, his sin nature was passed on to all mankind so that all are born spiritually dead. Being spiritually dead makes one incapable of doing ‘good,’ or ‘God originated’ works. Why then do many non-Christians seem to have good works? Adam ate from the tree of the ‘knowledge of good and evil.’ In the place of his living spirit that died when he ate from that tree, he, and all his descendants received a conscience, that thing within us that discerns right from wrong. Some people have a very high or strong conscience that produces morally good deeds. Others have their consciences so seared that they are moral reprobates only producing evil deeds. A subtle lie of Satan is that our consciences decide our destiny, telling us that more good works than bad earns us heaven. The problem is that it is not our conscience, but faith in what God says that decides our fate. Proverbs tells us, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Proverbs 14:12 The people going in by the wide gate think they are going to heaven. Final Thoughts: There are two prominent truths in the Bible that must be believed to become a Christian. 1) “There is none righteous, no, not one. For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. For there is no respect of persons with God.” Romans 3:10, 23; 2:11 Our celebrity in government, society, or church does no one any good in the sight of God. From top to bottom, we are all equally guilty. 2) “For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 It is only by faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus for eternal life that any man can be saved. No membership, prominence, lineage, inheritance, or desire can earn God’s salvation. John 1:13 It only comes by faith and experiencing the new birth of God. It is His ‘good work,’ not ours. His is finished. Ours is to believe it. John6:29 ph

To you and others who think prophesy has ceased what do you say about acts 2:17 “‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.

In the book of Acts, there are references to living prophets who played significant roles in the early Christian community. Let’s explore a couple of them: Agabus: Agabus appears twice in the book of Acts. In Acts 11:27-28, he prophesied about an upcoming famine, warning the believers in Antioch. By the Spirit’s enabling, Agabus foretold that there would be a great famine throughout the world, which indeed happened during the days of Claudius Caesar. As a result, the Antioch believers sent relief to their brethren in Judea. In Acts 21:10-11, Agabus prophesied about the terrible things that would happen to the apostle Paul if he proceeded to Jerusalem. Despite this warning, Paul remained steadfast in his commitment to the Lord Jesus. Agabus’ appearances highlight how the Holy Spirit reveals the future to prophets and how believers respond to His messages1. Other Prophets: Acts 13:1 mentions prophets and teachers in the church at Antioch. Among them were Barnabas, Simeon (also known as “the black man”), Lucius (from Cyrene), and Manaen (a childhood companion of King Herod Antipas). These prophets played essential roles in the early Christian community, testifying to the work of the Holy Spirit and bearing witness to Christ and God’s salvation through Him2. These references demonstrate the Holy Spirit’s active role in guiding and equipping the early believers through prophets. Their prophecies helped shape the course of events and fostered unity among the followers of Jesus. If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask! 😊[Copilot] In the book of Acts, we encounter Philip, one of the early Christian leaders. Philip had settled in Caesarea for about twenty years, and during this time, he had four daughters. Luke, the author of Acts, describes these young women simply as “four virgin daughters who prophesied” (Acts 21:9). Let’s explore why these details are significant: Prophetic Ministry: The fact that Philip’s daughters were prophetesses highlights the active role of spiritual gifts, including prophecy, within the local church. These women delivered messages inspired by God, even though their prophecies did not become part of the New Testament canon1. Devotion to the Lord: Some scholars suggest that these daughters may have chosen to remain unmarried in order to be fully devoted to the Lord and ministry. The apostle Paul also encouraged singleness for those who could handle it, emphasizing that unmarried individuals could focus more on serving God without the responsibilities of family life (1 Corinthians 7:8, 34)2. Living with Philip: Their single status explains why they were still living with their father, Philip, instead of with their husbands. In those days, it was common for children to continue living with their parents until they married or established their own households1. Luke’s Detailed Reporting: Luke provides detailed accounts of the sea journey to Caesarea, emphasizing the events at the end of the journey. He even includes himself in the narrative by using the pronoun “we,” suggesting that he was one of the passengers1. In summary, Philip’s daughters serve as a reminder of the diverse roles and gifts within the early Christian community. Their prophetic ministry and commitment to the Lord demonstrate the vibrant spiritual life of the early believers. If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask! 😊34 [Copilot]

Maybe . . .

Indeed. When I think of religion, I think system and organization . . . man's idea how to follow God and get His approval, rather than trusting Christ and having a relationship with Him.

Both Canadian and American government, including Germany have allowed a lot of Muslims Arabs to enter their country especially since a few years ago when they had no place to go. Interesting the other Arab countries did not welcome any of them as the above mentioned countries have. Germany has had a hard time controlling the Arab guetoes and the sharia laws being implemented by their own underground ways of managing. I know in Canada better laws where implemented so that these Islamic guettoes do not impose on the provinces laws and I think the U.S.A. also have some laws implemented to prevent the Sheria laws to take over. And they are free I guess to protest like any legal protest is allowed. Another danger that people are not seeing coming is the imposition of the Naohide Laws, They are creeping in and will be the end to many Christians. People need to research for themselves what those laws truly are about.

Religion is a complex concept with no single definition due to its diverse manifestations across cultures. Scholars identify seven common characteristics shared by most religions, including stories/myths, belief in supernatural beings, use of symbols, rituals, clerics, altered states of consciousness, and evolving beliefs/practices over time. Religion is intertwined with culture and plays a vital role in preserving collective memory and identity. Despite variations, all religions share a mystical core that involves a profound connection with a transcendent reality. The study of religion involves understanding its multifaceted nature rather than reducing it to a set of universal principles or ideologies. Embracing the diversity of religions can foster mutual understanding, humility, and peace among different belief systems.1 1 New Testament Theology and Its Quest for Relevance: Ancient Texts and Modern Readers This technical definition reminds me of the successful ecumenical propagation of Pope Francis and his success in bringing back the “protesters” under the umbrella of the Catholic (Universal) Church. The “letters of agreement” were signed by the Vatican and some Muslim sects, and Abraham's commonalities were shared, leading to the One World Religion. As we all know, Christianity is not a religion. It is faith, trust, and a personal relationship with a person, and we know who and what that Person is.

The wine press of the wrath of God is compressing. There is stress and pressure worldwide and just since the new year events seem to be compounding. Edit: Changed a word.

I had the last one. In my 30`s (`80`s) I was teaching, playing music and teaching Sunday School at the meeting, playing sport, flying small aircraft, skiiing, etc. Then I contracted a debilitating sickness, I couldn`t move much. So for a few years I was mainly bed bound. Then over time I have gradually gained some strength but only 4 hours in the morning and 4 in the later afternoon. Other sickness on top of that, but through it all I would not change a thing for I have learnt that the Lord is very close and taught me so much. Hospital visits are my popular times for I get to talk to doctors and nurses about the Lord. I have had so many opportunities and I delight in having meals prepared and people come and help you. Life surely is exciting with the Lord.

Love you bro! I can only say that, of course, because of His love for me and in me! (and I was homeless and drugged-out too, many years ago, but by His graceful supply . . .) And besides, I have rough edges as well, as we all do, but just in other areas . . . Nothing but the blood of Jesus!

Brother Dennis, I will offer then my thoughts as I see it, as follows: The theme of the book of Hebrews is REST. That is what comes when trusting and believing the promises of God. The people the author was speaking to were Born again Jews. Some of them, due to peer pressure or weakness because of lack of solid fundamental teaching, began to take part in the OT sacrifices again as if they had never been saved by the once for all sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. In the old law, when they fell away and sinned (after having their sins covered by the animal sacrifice) they were to bring a new sacrifice and kill it to atone for their sins AGAIN, and AGAIN and AGAIN, etc. Heb. 6:6 is saying it is not that way with the New Covenant. It is impossible to be Born Again, AGAIN (renew them AGAIN to repentance). Later in Hebrews it talks of the sufficiency of the ONCE FOR ALL death of Christ for all sins forever. By rejecting this truth they were trying to repeat their confession of salvation by being Born again, again, which is impossible to do. If you are truly born again, it only takes place once, forever. You can’t be Born Again, again. Should these babes in Christ continue in their not acknowledging the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice once for all, they only produce dead works and are NEAR unto cursing. They are of those branches in John 15 that quit producing fruit, are pruned and all those little sticks are good for is to be put in a pile and burn them so they don’t clutter the ground. The admonishment is not that they could lose their salvation and never have the chance to come back, nor that they were never born again in the first place, otherwise the text would be saying that it would be impossible for God to intervene in their life and save them once they reject the Gospel. But to quit fooling around and stand on the assurance of the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice once for all to save. Thanks Dennis for the chance to discuss.

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Romans 8:11

Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him. Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord. Leviticus 19:17-18

It's going to get worse. As we approach the end, we can expect to see Christianity outlawed and Christians imprisoned or executed for their faith. It's already illegal to own a Bible or go to church in some countries, but as we get closer to the tribulation, it will become global and the saints worldwide will be persecuted.

Well if it was there, I bet you would have found it. I was being a smart alec when I said find it in Daniel. I don't think it's that easy because the NT is based on a different language. This "about half an hour" verse (Rev. 8:1) is found in type during the Exodus era: 7th Seal, Exodus: In Mosesʼ day, a lull in priestly services ensued after the Glory of God filled the Tabernacle: the priests “were not able to enter” it. Ex. 40:35 End Times: There followed a “silence in heaven for about half an hour.” Rev. 8:1 -- https://www.worthychristianforums.com/blogs/entry/1992-the-end-times-and-the-exodus-part-2/

HOLY SPIRIT --- *** A BIBLE STUDY*** PART 3 ACTS 1:1 the former treatise have I made o theophilus of all that JESUS began both to do and teach --1:2-- until the day in which HE was taken up after that HE through the holy spirit had given commandments unto the apostles whom HE had chosen JOHN 12:48 he that rejecteth me and receiveth not MY words hath one that judgeth him the words that --I HAVE SPOKEN-- the same shall judge him in the last day --12:49-- for I have not spoken of myself --BUT THE FATHER WHICH SENT ME-- HE gave ME a commandment what I should say and what I should speak --12:50-- and I know that HIS commandment is life everlasting whatsoever I speak therefore even as THE FATHER said unto ME so I speak PSALM 56:5 EVERY DAY THEY WREST MY WORDS FOR ALL THEIR THOUGHTS ARE AGAINST ME FOR EVIL JOHN 14:26 but the comforter which is the holy spirit whom THE FATHER will send in MY NAME he shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I have said unto you --14:18-- I WILL NOT LEAVE YOU COMFORTLESS ---I WILL COME TO YOU--- PSALM 119:50 this is my comfort in my affliction ---FOR THY WORD HATH QUICKENED ME--- PSALM 86:17 show me a token for good that they which hate me may see it and be ashamed ---BECAUSE THOU LORD HAST HOLPEN ME --- AND COMFORTED ME--- 2 CORINTHIANS 1:3 blessed be GOD even THE FATHER of our LORD JESUS CHRIST THE FATHER OF MERCIES AND THE GOD OF ALL COMFORT --1:4-- who comforteth us in --all-- our tribululation that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of GOD --1:6-- and whether we be afflicted it is for your consolation and salvation which is effectual in enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer or whether we be comforted it is for your consolation and salvation ROMANS 15:4 FOR WHATSOEVER THINGS WERE WRITTEN AFORETIME WERE WRITTEN FOR OUR LEARNING THAT WE THROUGH PATIENCE AND ---COMFORT OF THE SCRITURES MIGHT HAVE HOPE--- 2 TIMOTHY 3:16 all --SCRIPTURE-- is given by inspiration of GOD and is ---PROFITABLE -- FOR DOTRINE -- FOR REPROOF -- FOR CORRECTION -- FOR INSTRUCTION IN RIGHTEOUSNES ACTS 17:11 these were more noble than those in thessalonica in that they received the word with all readiness of mind ---AND SEARCHED THE SCRIPTURES--- daily whether those things were so PSALM 119:76 let I pray thee thy merciful kindness ---BE FOR MY COMFORT --- ACCORDING TO THY WORD UNTO THY SERVANT--- ISAIAH 66:13 as one whom his mother comforteth so will I comfort you and you shall be comforted in jerusalem PSALM 31:6 I HAVE HATED THEM THAT REGARD LYING VANITIES BUT I TRUST IN THE LORD 1 JOHN 5:10 he that believeth on THE SON OF GOD hath the witness in himself --- HE THAT BELIEVETH NOT GOD HATH MADE HIM A LIAR --- because he believeth not the record that GOD gave of HIS SON REVELATION 21:23 and the city had no need of the sun neither of the moon to shine in it for the glory of GOD did lighten it and THE LAMB is the light thereof REVELATION 21:27 AND THERE SHALL IN NO WISE ENTER INTO IT ANY THING THAT DEFILETH NEITHER WHATSOEVER WORKETH ABOMINATION ---OR MAKETH A LIE--- BUT THEY WHICH ARE WRITTEN IN THE LAMBS BOOK OF LIFE PSALM 69:28 LET THEM BE BLOTTED OUT OF THE BOOK OF THE LIVING AND NOT BE WRITTEN WITH THE RIGHTEOUS LOVING THE LORD JESUS CHRIST

I agree. In the interest of objectivity, it is important that we honestly acknowledge Israel's shortcomings. But it is also important that we honestly consider the broader context of the conflict. The secular mainstream paints the issue as overwhelmingly Israel's fault. Israel is their big, bad oppressor that is victimizing the poor innocent "Palestinian" civilians. That narrative is the opposite of what is demonstrably true. Therefore, in the context of such a one-sided, mainstream, deceitful narrative, we should be cautious when pointing out Israel's flaws - that we don't give the false impression of equivalent accountability.

And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen. (John 21:25) I cannot prove it, but I have read from reputable sources that every book was fed into AI. Every social media post is fed into it to gain knowledge and intelligence. Now, with quantum computing, that task is easily obtainable. I hear that all the ancient literature in the Vatican vaults has also been documented and fed into AI. If true, that is incredible. I hear more and more people thanking Mother Earth and the universe for their fortunes and blessings. This climate change initiative concerns population control, income, and Mother Earth worship. AI technology has, or will shortly, learn and expand independently without human intervention. Few dispute the concerns about the possibility of this technology becoming self-aware or conscious and making decisions and taking actions on its own, bypassing humans. Machines and AI cannot possess morals, values, and compassion. As alluded to in biblical scripture, evil spirits can possess people, animals, geographical places, and things. I can easily envision the use and role of AI for global control, as well as the image of the Beast. Suppose you and I were having this conversation 30-40-50 years ago. What would your thoughts be, and how would you respond? What if I posted my thoughts on a Christian website forum back then (which I did)? Rejected, conspiracy theory, take your meds. Today, things and technology are progressing faster than an army of those watching can keep track of and report on. Never in history, not since, are becoming a regular mantra on the news—tick, tick, tick. “The world is not falling into pieces; the pieces are falling in place.” Jan Markell, Olive Tree Ministries

There are at least five views on this 30-minute silence. To briefly summarize and condense the majority view: The dramatic pause is “to symbolize the awe and dread with which the heavenly hosts await the events about to happen.[1] [1] Patterson, Paige. Revelation. Edited by E. Ray Clendenen, vol. 39, B&H, 2012, p. 206.

Gotcha! And the one world religion would be sure to deny the simplicity in Christ, that is, that we must work to earn good standing before God. If you think about it . . . lets say someone turns AI loose to create this grand religion from all relevant religious source material. It would have all the "good" elements in it, moral codes, etc. To someone who doesn't know Christ, it would be absurd for anyone not to sign onto it. And if someone doesn't sign onto it, they certainly must be part of the evil, which is holding mankind back, right?

I do not have any divine revelations or inside knowledge. I believe we are living at the close of this final dispensation, or the end of this age. If true, we should see how prophetic scriptures align and manifest. Everything in the Bible about the terminal generation is not coming; it is now here. How many historical and current wars and atrocities have been waged in the name of religion? The Bible infers there will be a one-world government and a global religion. It is easy to see the global government coming about, and they are not hiding it. For years, I suspected the global religion to be akin to something like Chrislam, but it still could be, as there is a Vatican push for it. There is something new to the mix I never considered as time passes. Even the apostle Paul debated the subject with philosophers in Athens, Greece. The quest and worship of higher powers, knowledge, and intelligence. Is this starting to ring any bells? Some can connect the image of the Beast and artificial intelligence (AI). However God’s plans and purposes unfold, we are witnessing it. Exciting times, eh?

Christ is faithful to strip away those things as He continues to work in us. There is an extreme which I found myself entrenched in when those words of the Lord which promised that "nothing would be the same" started to unfold. I was terrified by that plate of cookies. Why? The plate of cookies would destroy me so that, when those cookies were taken away, I would suffer loss all over again. I preferred existence not knowing when the next meal would arrive and from whence it would come. There is something to be said when the trappings of life aren't certain at all. This enabled freedom from the millstone of responsibilities and the horror that descended upon me whenever I found work... obtained housing... and found myself with a stocked kitchen. I would lose it all in cycle that never seemed to end. We should be grateful for whatever we receive from the Lord, yes? So, when He placed that proverbial plate of cookies in front of me, I had to overcome the fear that it would vanish. Sometimes, having a plate of cookies is the issue.

@Marathoner I also deal with a similar obstacle on my character. If people start to speak without keeping up with their own thoughts, only caring about being right and even lying about what they previously stated/did, something happens to me and I stop caring about the person I have in front of me. When I enter in scrutiny mode, I put God aside, I am caustic and as you said, words can be razor blades. It has been a long process to overcome this, and I do thank God for all the times I kept silent. But sometimes, I do wish I could have the power to put someone in "their place". The other day a situation like that arose. I wanted to make a point, some way. I wanted to find words that would have the effect I needed, without the guilt. I started as usual, going alone to my own thoughts, but then I turned to God and asked for help, "This person needs to learn something, otherwise this will keep happening. This person will knock on my door soon and I don't want to disappoint You with my words. I also don't want to be unpleasant to this person, even though I am so displeased right now." I was listening to Praise and Harmony on Spotify, and (probably not) coincidentally I had "Generous King" on repeat: "Generous King, You give Out of Your fullness, showering kindness You give, generous King Mercies unending, love never failing You give. The wrath we deserved was furious The cup that we drink is full of Love It's all from You, Lord, it's all from You Your Spirit You've freely given us" My thoughts while listening: I receive so much kindness from God. How many times was I unreasonable with this Generous King, with His children? How much I received anyway. I want to share this gratitude by being generous to those around me, to those He also cares about. What evil comes to the world if I am generous even when my human nature tells me that I am on some pinnacle of reason and logic? The ground where I stand is all the love God has been giving me, I have what I need to be generous to this person. (The issue here was, I see now, my pride, and that is why silence and a warm smile was the best solution. There are situations where we indeed need to have a voice.) So now, when I'm on that crossroad, I start to sing this song inside my mind. It has been helpful! Brother Marathoner, may God give you a song to play in your mind, or something else that God wills, to help you in that shift. May God give us assertiveness when He wants to use us for His work, but also joy when silence/neutrality is a way to express His generosity towards us and others.

As for myself I worship what is. I do so individually and also under a corporate privilege of church congregation fellowship. I just do not worry myself about the tapestries hanging on the walls of religion. Long as they do not form a barrier wall between what I worship and myself I am good with it all. The Holy Spirit sweeps on in when corporate worship is in play . The Holy Spirit is always there for me individually too, especially to take over for me when I cannot form words to describe my prayers.

Rev. 19:10 (ESV), Last sentence in the verse: For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

We know if something would come true by those means, it would be by evil forces or spirits. And we know those evil spirits eventually would destroy a person.

I'd say it's slightly more nuanced than your summary. I think the important 'highlights' are as follows: - The British were given official stewardship of "The Palestinian Territory" in July 1920. - Approaching this period of British mandate, as the result of Jewish immigration, the Arabs had become increasingly concerned and violent because of the changing demographics. - The British solution to the conflict was a partition plan (Peel Commision 1937) that separated Jews from Arabs (with a stretch in between remaining under the control of Britain). The Jews didn't really give a universal, united response to this plan. The Arabs increased their violence in the land as a universal rejection of this plan. - After WWII, Jews also became increasingly desperate and violent - due to displaced Jews now needing a place to go. Jews therefore also became violent against the British for limiting immigration to the land. - In 1947, Britain asked the newly-formed UN to help provide a solution. The UN resolution for a two-state solution passed. Jews celebrated and Arabs increased their attacks on Jews. - On the final day of the British Mandate (Friday, May 14th, 1948), Israel declared Independence at 4PM. Egyptian bombs fell on Tel Aviv around 4 hours later. The military forces of the surrounding Arab states mobilized against Israel the following day - starting a war that would last two years.

Sometimes I listen to OPPs, which is shorthand for Other People's Problems, and often there is a complaint against God included in their commentaries. Even though the Bible does record complaints against God, these typically are resolved, and in the case of Habakkuk, replaced with triumphant praise and strong commendations of God for providing an upward escape from downward experiences.

I think that is perfectly reasonable. However, as someone with no 'skin in the game', who has followed the conflict for decades and studied the history of the region (including prior to my Christian conversion), I would struggle to come up with 10 instances of the Israel side acting in an egregious, unprovoked, atrocious manner. To be conservative, let's say I missed some - and the true number is closer to 20 or 30. There are, by contrast (and without exaggeration or hyperbole), literally thousands of documented occasions when the Arab side has committed atrocities against Israel. That is, if you list and count them, there have been more attacks against Israel than days past since Israel's declaration of independence over 70 years ago. I understand (and respect) the inclination to want to hear both sides of the conflict. But I can only do so much when the facts tell an overwhelmingly one-sided story, and the mainstream adopts and promotes a false narrative to make the opposite seem true. How many times can the supposedly 'victimized' side of a conflict choose violence over negotiations - before we can start to question their good faith in the negotiation process? Not-to-mention the regional Arab's oft-stated, unequivocal, unhidden, uncompromising goal to snuff out the existence of Israel.

Well, @Marathoner, it's all one big mess, isn't it!? I speak, of course, of Adam's race, of which we all, in the flesh, are descendant from. Please forgive me, brother, if I spoke out of ignorance. As I said in the OP, just recently I have gained an appetite to understand more about what's going on over there. The last two nights I've been watching a couple videos of interviews between Israelis and Palestinians. It's pretty enlightening, to say the least. Before I always just automatically sided with about any Israeli action, because basically that is what I was taught. After spending some hours of reading various things and listening to people speak in these videos, my bottom-line is I still support Israel, because I believe that's where the bible comes down on the matter.* However, I'm starting to get better insight into the actual feelings on the ground, especially as I watch these interviews. These were made with very real people, living for years in the midst of that situation. And perhaps I misspoke (in ignorance once again) about Arabs being 90% responsible . . . probably better to say "Based upon my limited perception, I believe most of the misbehaving has come from Israel's enemies." (and leave the percentage off of it) It would be quite arrogant to say I know exactly what's really going on there - I don't. But I hope, from further study, to gain better knowledge. I do believe this: the middle east situation is a grand conundrum/Gordian Knot to say the least, and the man that can (apparently) solve it will have to really be something indeed - seemingly worthy of the lofty pedestal he will be put on! * Geo-politically speaking I'm also getting a better understanding of how this mess came about via the actions of the Romans, Ottomans, British, French, Arab nations & the US. However exceptionally messy it is, I believe it is still God's will that Israel became a nation 2,000 years after their dispersal. May we all find the Prince of Peace in this!

Psalm 93: 1 The LORD reigns. He is clothed with majesty, the LORD is clothed with strength wherewith He has girded Himself.

Psalm 62:5 My soul, wait you only upon God: for my expectation is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation: He is my defense, I shall not be moved .