I love my Catholic friends. Many of my Catholic friends, often venerate and deify some among themselves and others in the church, in addition to God.
I love my Protestant friends. Many of my Protestant friends, often esteem and think very highly of some among themselves and others in the church, in addition to God.
I love my Pentecostal friends. Many of my Pentecostal friends, often adore and put on a pedestal, some among themselves and others in the church, in addition to God.
I love my Charismatic friends. Many of my Charismatic friends often idolize and hold in awe, some among themselves and others in the church, in addition to God.
Is this just more of the ‘good intentions’ but, in reality, worldly attitudes and behaviors among Christians and among those in the church?
If we are to get anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care — then do yourself and others a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; Don’t try to rule over others; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.
“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, as He already existed in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself by taking the form of a bond-servant and being born in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death: death on a cross”.(Philippians 2, verses 3 through 8.)
“I call you my friends; my brothers and sisters. Follow Me!” – The Words of Jesus to you and to me.
Please. Let’s all be like Jesus; especially you, who are ‘the important ones’ among us.
Your Brother and Friend,
Mike Young
PS: I am working on this in my own life, because I need too. Please, let’s pray for one another as He conforms us to His image.
THE BOOK OF THE REVELATION – Chapter 8 – The 7 Trumpets
Episode 10
(These Episodes are meant to not only ask and answer the questions, “When, Why, How and What?”, but also the question, “SO WHAT?”)
Revelation chapter eight begins with the conclusion of the Seal Judgments with the breaking of the Seventh Seal and the ‘interlude’ seen in chapter seven. Then a strange thing occurs: “there was silence in heaven for about an hour”.
The Book of The Revelation – Chapter 8 – The Text
Revelation 8:1, When He (the Lamb) broke open the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. Verse 2. Then I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven,[footnote ‘a], trumpets were given to them.
Commentary break: Scripture does not specify the reasons for this silence, but if it is kept in context of what has already occurred, it is doubtless, an ominous sign and a deafening hush.
Here are some possibilities for the silence in heaven of half an hour. (from Got Questions website):
1) The silence in heaven for the space of half an hour is a sign of deep respect and awe in the presence of the Judge of all the earth. Just as earthly courtrooms demand silence when the judge is presiding, so does the heavenly courtroom. “Be silent before the Sovereign LORD, for the day of the LORD is near” (Zephaniah 1:7). “The LORD is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him” (Habakkuk 2:20).
2) The half-hour silence in heaven is the result of somber reflection on what has just been revealed. When Jesus Christ breaks the seventh seal, the scroll of God’s judgment is fully revealed for the first time. Now all heaven can see God’s plan to judge the wickedness of the earth, destroy the kingdom of the beast, and set things right. All heaven remains silent as God’s righteousness is on display. At the sight of full scroll and all the judgments about to fall, the denizens of heaven take their cue from Job, who, faced with God’s awesome presence, said, “I am unworthy—how can I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth” (Job 40:4).
3) The silence in heaven is due to the severity of the actions the Lord God is about to take. With the scroll fully open, heaven can now see the trumpet judgments (in the next verse, seven nearby angels are handed seven trumpets of judgment, Revelation 8:2) and the bowl judgments (which the seventh trumpet introduces). These judgments are more terrible than anything the world will have ever seen (Mark 13:19–20). The final catastrophes are about to befall the earth, and silence and stillness fill the time of tense expectation. “Be silent, all flesh, before the LORD, for he has roused Himself from his holy dwelling” (Zechariah 2:13, ESV).
In a way, the silence in heaven could be seen as the calm before the storm—the storm of final judgment coming upon the earth. The silence emphasizes the importance and impressiveness of the seventh and final seal. With the opening of the seventh seal comes a climax in the Day of the Lord. Evil has had its day; now the Lord will have His. (End of Commentary break).
Verse 3. Another angel came’ and stood at the altar. He had a golden, [footnote ‘b’], censer, and much, [footnote ‘c’], incense was given to him, so that he might add it to the prayers of all the saints (God’s people) on the golden altar in front of the throne. Verse 4. And the smoke and fragrant aroma of the incense, with the prayers of the saints (God’s people), ascended before God from the angel’s hand. Verse 5. So the angel took the censer and filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it to the earth; and there were peals of thunder and loud rumblings and sounds and flashes of lightning and an earthquake.
Commentary break: Verses 3 through 5 are ripe with significant symbolism. Please use the “footnote links” for details. However, for the imaginative mind, just read these verses as God’s opening salvos of the final war. It would be as if God were ‘softening up’ the front lines of the enemy’s forces, in preparation for His final assault and the absolute victory over the Dragon and the Beasts of the earth,
(a.) In Revelation 13, John sees a nightmarish vision of a dragon and two beasts.
The first Beast comes out of the sea and receives power from the dragon, or Satan. This beast is a true monstrosity: “It had ten horns and seven heads, with ten crowns on its horns, and on each head a blasphemous name. The beast I saw resembled a leopard, but had feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion” (Revelation 13:1–2). Daniel’s vision of the beast is similar in many ways to John’s (Daniel 7:7–8, 19–27). Studying both Daniel and Revelation in tandem is profitable.
In Revelation, the term beast refers to two related entities.
(a .) Sometimes “the beast” refers to the end-times’ empire. The seven heads and ten horns indicate that the beast will be a coalition of nations that rises to power to subdue the earth under Satan’s control.
(b .) Later references to “the beast” in Revelation picture an individual, the man who is the political leader and head of the beastly empire.
The beast will receive a deadly wound and be healed of it (Revelation 13:3). He will exert authority over the whole world and demand worship (verses 7 and 8). He will wage war against God’s people, and he will prevail against them for a time (Revelation 13:7; Daniel 7:21). However, the beast’s time is short: according to Revelation 13:5 and Daniel 7:25, he will only be permitted absolute authority for forty-two months, (which are the three-and-a-half years that make up the second half of the Great Tribulation, also known as The Wrath of the Lamb. This will commence at or after the 6th Trumpet Judgment and will conclude at the end of the 7th Bowl Judgment.)
We believe that the beast in Revelation is the Antichrist, the one who will “oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God’s temple, proclaiming himself to be God” (2 Thessalonians 2:4). He is also called “the man of lawlessness” and “the man doomed to destruction” (2 Thessalonians 2:3). In Daniel’s vision, the Antichrist is the “little horn” that rises from the head of the terrifying beast (Daniel 7:8). (End Commentary break).
Verse 6. Then the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound them [initiating the judgments].
Verse 7. The first [angel] sounded [his trumpet], and there was[a storm of] hail and fire, mixed with blood, and it was hurled to the earth; and a third of the earth was burned up, and a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up.
Verse 8. The second angel sounded [his trumpet], and something like a great mountain blazing with fire was hurled into the sea; and a third of the sea was turned to blood; verse 9, and a third of the living creatures that were in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed.
Verse 10. The third angel sounded[his trumpet], and a great star fell from heaven, burning like a torch [flashing across the sky], and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of [fresh] waters. Verse 11. The name of the star is[footnote ‘d’], Wormwood; and a third of the waters became wormwood, and many people died from the waters, because they had become bitter (toxic).
Verse 12. Then the fourth angel sounded[his trumpet], and a third of the sun and a third of the moon and a third of the stars were struck, so that a third of them would be darkened and a third of the daylight would not shine, and the night in the same way[would not shine].
Verse 13. Then I looked, and I heard a solitary eagle flying in,[footnote ‘e’], mid-heaven [for all to see], saying with a loud voice, “[footnote ‘f’], Woe, woe, woe[great wrath is coming] to those who dwell on the earth, because of the remaining blasts of the trumpets which the three angels are about to sound[announcing ever greater judgments]!”
It is clear from the final verses of this chapter, that another intensification of God’s Judgments, the likes of which the world has never been seen before, and never will again, are about to occur. These final Trumpet Judgments and the Bowl Judgments will serve, according to the context of the Greek language, as ‘a sundering, and a separation of right from wrong’, and the ‘Righteous from the Unrighteous’.
God’s ‘beach head’ has been, is being and will be established and the final assault for a complete destruction of the enemy force, is coming.
A PROPHETIC WORD FROM JESUS – “Your sins are forgiven”, Part 38
Creative, Causative, Prophetic, Instructional
“Your sins are forgiven”
“And getting into a boat, he crossed over and came to his own city. And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic,
“Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.”
“And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said,
“Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”. He then said to the paralytic “Rise, pick up your bed and go home.”
And he rose and went home. When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.”
The Words of Jesus, Matthew 9:1-7.
The paralytic in this account is a real man, lying on a real bed. He is representative of “every man” and “every woman”, for we have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Ours beds are the beds of sickness, disease, infirmity, lack, want and death that come from our sin.
Jesus is speaking words of healing, health and life to you, this very moment. It does not matter how simple or how dreadful your condition. No matter the desperation of your situation, no matter how far you may have fallen, how remote your rescue and restoration may seem or how impossible your circumstances appear, your salvation is now at hand.
You will become well, whole, safe and healthy in your relationships.
You will become well, whole, safe and healthy in your family, with your spouse and your children.
You will become well, whole, safe and healthy in your career, with your employment and co-workers.
You will become well, whole, safe and healthy in your finances and all your wealth.
You will become well, whole, safe and healthy in your mind, will, emotions, body and spirit.
Take in these Words of Jesus and of the Bible and make them your own. They are the flesh and blood of Christ. ‘Eat them’ by taking them into your heart, your soul and your mind, ‘chew on them’, meditate on them, absorb them into your spirit, and become whole!
First, please don’t overlook the significance of these few words: “When Jesus saw their faith”. Jesus was moved and spoke Creative words, Causative words, Prophetic words and Instructional words when He saw their faith.
Let me say it again: faith moves God to speak. Jesus was moved by their faith, and He spoke prophetic, creative, causative and instructional words into the life of this paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.”
Jesus will be moved by your faith.
Secondly, it is important to understand the true meaning and definition of ‘sin’. From the Greek word, ‘hamartía’, meaning ‘not taking a part in or a share of’ creating a loss or a forfeiture because of not hitting the target; missing the mark. This comes from self-willed behavior.
Interestingly, in old England, during archery competition, when an archer would miss the target completely, the judge would shout, “SIN”, because the archer missed the target. Likewise, when we miss the target of God’s Righteousness and of God’s standards, we sin, and we miss out, we suffer loss of God’s presence and provision by forfeiture.
In the foregoing illustration, the archer has no recourse except to ‘suffer the loss’, sharpen his or her aim and try again.
In our case, however, as Christians, we have recourse. We can call on our advocate, Jesus Christ, by confessing our ‘sins’ and by pleading our case to Him, our loss is reversed. Jesus suffers our loss as His own, and we are given a renewed life. We are restored and ‘shoot our arrows again toward the heart of the target’.
Hebrew 11:1-3, correctly instructs us that the“Faith (which restores us) is the assurance, (the absolute certainty, the title deed, a rock-solid confirmation) of things hoped for, (of things anticipated and expected by divine guarantee; this faith is proof-positive evidence) of things not (yet seen and the conviction of their reality; the comprehension as fact of what cannot be first experienced by the physical senses.) For by this (kind of) faith the men of old gained divine approval.”
“It is by (the) faith (that comes from an inherent trust, an enduring confidence in the power, wisdom and goodness of God), that we understand that the worlds, (the universe, the cosmos of all the ages) were framed, (formed, created, put in order, and equipped for their intended purpose) by the word of God, so that what is now visible was not made out of things which are visible.”
This is the faith has no conclusion and no end. It is building and growing and enduring through all the ages until the end of time.
Thirdly, the outcome of this kind of faith is visible. It brings both amazement and fear to the hearts and minds of men and women, and it brings glory to God. “When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.”
“Do not fear what they fear, nor be in dread. But the Lord of hosts, him you shall honor as holy. Let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he will become a sanctuary.” (Isaiah 8:12-13)
Finally, it is by this kind of faith that God grants authority to men and women; not to do works by and of themselves, but as living sacrifices, living instruments through which and by which God does His Works.
This faith is the reason God is saying to you, this day, “Take heart, my son (or daughter); your sins are forgiven.”
And behold, even in our day and time, some of our ‘scribes’, men and women, say “this man (Jesus) is blaspheming by the way they stand in judgment on His Works and His Words”.
They call themselves interpreters, theologians, and teachers, educated in religious laws and doctrines, and in the sacred writings of the Bible, posturing with their lineage, educational degrees given by men.
Just like the Scribes of Jesus’ day, these modern day ‘Scribes’ say they examine the more difficult and subtle questions of the law; but they add to the law opinions of various kinds thought to elucidate its meaning and scope, to the detriment of The Gospel.
But Jesus, knows their thoughts, and He said then, and He continues to say today,
“Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”.
Jesus is saying to you, this day and at this moment: “Take heart, my son (your name here) or my daughter(your name here) ; your sins are forgiven.” Rise, pick up your bed and go home.”
The Book of The Revelation – The Day of The Lord – Chapter 7
EPISODE NINE.
(These Episodes are meant to not only ask and answer the questions, “When, Why, How and What?”, but also the question, “SO WHAT?”)
Revelation chapter seven is a continuation of the breaking of the scroll of SEVEN SEALS, but is interrupted by an interlude of events, setting the stage and making preparation for another intensification of God’s judgements upon the world. It might be difficult to imagine how much worse could things get, after reading Revelation chapter six, but Jesus explains, in Matthew 24, verses 21 and 22, that “For at that time there will be a great tribulation (pressure, distress, oppression), such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will [again]. And if those days [of tribulation] had not been cut short, no human life would be saved; but for the sake of the elect (God’s chosen ones) those days will be shortened.”
NOTE: A question to be asked at this point is, ‘If Christians will have been removed from the earth through the Rapture, why continue this narrative. It would seem that the redeemed are now safe in heaven and those left are doomed to destruction; so there would be no one left to know these things nor to have any recourse’.
This is to let all of humanity, who are willing to know, the sequence of events to come, presumably, so we can prepare ourselves. And what is to come is nothing if it is not astounding as it will be, literally, earthshaking!
Additionally, there apparently will be some who will have the opportunity to be saved during the period between the last two Seal Judgements, and up until the 6th Tribulation Trumpet, known as the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord. It is perhaps for this reason the narrative continues, offering hope until the last moment.
It is at the 6th Trumpet that God’s mercy ends and no one else is to be saved from God’s wrath and destruction. “The rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent even then of the works of their hands, so as to cease worshiping and paying homage to the demons and the idols of gold and of silver and of bronze and of stone and of wood, which can neither see nor hear nor walk; and they did not repent of their murders nor of their sorceries (drugs, intoxications) nor of their [sexual] immorality nor of their thefts.(see Revelation 9, verses 20 and 21.)
The Book of the Revelation – Chapter 7 – The text
The Interlude
Revelation 7:1, After this I saw four angels stationed at the four corners of the earth, holding back the,[footnote ‘a’], four winds of the earth so that no wind would blow on the earth or on the sea or on any tree. Verse 2. Then I saw another angel coming up from the rising of the sun, holding the seal of the living God; and with a loud voice he called out to the four angels to whom it was granted [to have authority and power] to harm the earth and the sea,verse 3, saying, “Do not harm the earth nor the sea nor the trees until we,[footnote ‘b’], seal(mark) the bond-servants of our God on their foreheads.”
Commentary break: Simply put, the ‘four corners of the earth’ signifies the entire earth, from north to south, east to west.
Everything comes to a stop, it seems. And, here is what would happen, (according to an article found on the weather channel), it the winds stopped blowing:
“It would rarely rain in inland locations (wind moves moist air over dry spots and falls as rain). All land not near a body of water would turn into a desert.
“There would be more extreme temperatures (the warm/cold air over the ground would not be replaced by the steady temperature air of the oceans and seas).
“The trade winds would no longer exist, and ocean stream currents would eventually stop. This would to serious climate changes. (The Gulf Stream keeps Europe warm).”
“After a few days the problem arrives. Without wind systems, warm, moist air won’t move around. Water might still evaporate, but it won’t travel, meaning anywhere away from a large body of water will dry up. Lakes might be alright as the evaporating water will fall back into them and the sea will be fine but anywhere else will get very dry, very quickly. Plants, animals and humans will slowly die from dehydration with most water inaccessible as salt water or ice. Even if we survive this, the problems don’t stop. The equator will no longer shed its heat as quickly, so it will become very warm, mountains may remain cool enough to be habitable but nowhere else will. At the same time, the poles, deprived of heat from the equator, will freeze solid.” Science is finally saying what the Bible has been saying for centuries.
This pause, apparently ends after the sealing of the bond-servants of God, according to verse 3. (End commentary).
The 144,000.
Verse 4. And I heard how many were sealed, a hundred and forty-four thousand;[twelve thousand] sealed from,[footnote ‘c’], every tribe of the sons of Israel:
Verse 5. Twelve thousand were sealed from the tribe of Judah, twelve thousand from the tribe of Reuben, twelve thousand from the tribe of Gad,
verse 6, twelve thousand from the tribe of Asher, twelve thousand from the tribe of Naphtali, twelve thousand from the tribe of Manasseh,
verse 7, twelve thousand from the tribe of Simeon, twelve thousand from the tribe of Levi, twelve thousand from the tribe of Issachar,
verse 8, twelve thousand from the tribe of Zebulun, twelve thousand from the tribe of Joseph, and twelve thousand from the tribe of Benjamin were sealed(marked, redeemed, protected).
A Multitude from the Tribulation
Verse 9. After these things I looked, and this is what I saw: a vast multitude which no one could count, [gathered] from every nation and from all the tribes and peoples and languages [of the earth], standing before the throne and before the Lamb (Christ), dressed in white robes, with,[footnote ‘d’], palm branches in their hands;verse 10, and in a loud voice they cried out, saying,
“Salvation[belongs] to our God who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb[our salvation is the Trinity’s to give, and to God the Trinity we owe our deliverance].” Verse 11. And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the [twenty-four] elders and the four living creatures; and they fell to their faces before the throne and worshiped God, verse 12, saying,
“Amen! Blessing and glory and majesty and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might belong to our God forever and ever. Amen.”
Verse 13. Then one of the elders responded, saying to me, “These who are dressed in the long white robes–who are they, and from where did they come?” Verse 14. I said to him, “My lord, you know[the answer].” And he said to me, “These are the people who come out of the great tribulation(persecution), and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb [because of His atoning sacrifice]. Verse 15. For this reason, they are[standing] before the throne of God; and they serve Him [in worship] day and night in His temple; and He who sits on the throne will,[footnote ‘e’], spread His tabernacle over them and shelter and protect them [with His presence].
Commentary break: These are debated verses. Some will say that this is a peek, forward in time, after the one hundred forty-four thousand from the twelve tribes of Israel have completed their task of evangelizing the nation of Israel and bringing untold numbers to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
However, and first, the number of Jews, alive and on the earth at any imaginable time are certainly ‘countable’. These verses say, first, it is to be“a vast multitude which no one could count”; and secondly they say these people come “from every nation and from all the tribes and peoples and languages [of the earth]”, clearly not exclusively Jews.
Third, this is an amazing picture of the sudden appearance of “a vast multitude which, (a), no one could count, (and, b), from every nation and from all the tribes and peoples and languages [of the earth]” – A perfect and clear depiction of the Rapture!
Finally, this is spoken of as being “after these things”, referring to as having come after the interlude; again, clearly not later as seen in Revelation chapter 14, when the one hundred forty-four thousand from the 12 tribes of Israel are with The Lamb (Jesus), which is the period following the 6th Tribulation Trumpet. This is when the Angel is proclaiming the Gospel, announcing the fall and destruction of Babylon, the doom of the Beast, and the final reaping of the earth, and judgement, both for the righteous to salvation and the unrighteous for judegment and destruction. This is the period just prior to the final 7 Bowl judgements, the Wrath of the Lamb. (End of Commentary).
Verse 16. They will hunger no longer, nor thirst anymore; nor will the sun,[footnote ‘f’], beat down on them, nor any [scorching] heat; verse 17, for the Lamb who is in the center of the throne will be their Shepherd, and He will guide them to springs of the waters of life; and God will wipe every tear from their eyes[giving them eternal comfort].”
Commentary break: After the gathering of “a vast multitude which no one could count, gathered from every nation and from all the tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb (Christ), dressed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands; and in a loud voice they cried out, saying, “Salvation to our God who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb”,
Verse 16 tells us, IN THE FUTURE TENSE, that, “They will hunger no longer, nor thirst anymore; nor will the sun beat down on them, nor any heat; for the Lamb who is in the center of the throne will be their Shepherd, and He will guide them to springs of the waters of life; and God will wipe every tear from their eyes.” This is an event yet to come. It is found, later, in Revelation 21, verse 4.
THE GREAT FALLING AWAY (APOSTASY) & THE REVEALING OF THE ANTICHRIST, THE MAN OF LAWLESSNESS.
It is important to understand the time of breaking of the 6th Tribulation Seal is near, and in fact is upon us, and that you and I, as Christians, must be ready and found doing what Jesus has commanded.
All the necessary prophecies leading up to Jesus’ return, have been fulfilled, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF:
(1 .) The great falling away, the great apostasy: 2 Thessalonians 2, verses 1 through 4, “Now in regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to meet Him, we ask you, brothers and sisters,not to be quickly unsettled or alarmed either by a [so-called prophetic revelation of a] spirit or a message or a letter [alleged to be] from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has [already] come. Let no one in any way deceive or entrap you, for that day will not come unless the apostasy comes first [that is, the great rebellion, the abandonment of the faith by professed Christians], (which is occurring now, in this 21st century, in the year of 2024),
(2. ) and, the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction [the Antichrist, the one who is destined to be destroyed], who opposes and exalts himself [so proudly and so insolently] above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he [actually enters and] takes his seat in the temple of God, publicly proclaiming that he himself is God.
We have been warned. We must be prepared. We must stay ready.
Your Brother and Friend,
Mike Young
NEXT: (coming soon). THE BOOK OF THE REVELATION – Chapter 8 – The 7 Trumpets – Episode 10.
All of these listed subjects, the people and places are addressed, in one way or another, in the Bible, and they are being used to wage the age-old cultural and spiritual war of Good versus Evil; or more correctly stated, God versus the devil.
All the subjects, people and places listed are either being used by or are the manifestation of the evils of Paganism, Secularism, Gnosticism and Satanism. They are, in of themselves, prone to evil, which is just another way of saying that they are being used by the spirit of the antichrist, which is now present among us. (see 1st John, chapter four, verse 3).
They are being used by ‘the enemies of Christ’ to blur the message of what is right and just; transforming and calling what is good as being evil and what is evil, as being good. (see Isaiah 5, verse 20). It is a counterfeit of the Gospel – the Good News – of Jesus; and millions have been, and are being, deceived.
Why am I pointing this out? It is because more and more, Christians are coming to accept these things, at the least as alternative viewpoints, and at worst, acceptable alternative lifestyles, whether they approve of them or not. More and more Christians are seeing the manifest evils in this world in various shades of gray.
The Bible, in stark contrast, is a Book of ‘black and white’, or as the Bible itself puts it, of “Light and Darkness”. There is no variance or shadow of turning in the Bible.
According to the Bible, the outcomes of these subjects, people and places, are not only unacceptable, but are in rebellion toward and are the enemies of Christ. God clearly states that the day is coming, and is now at hand, that all these things will be judged by the standard of the Holiness of God, and any not found in submission to Jesus Christ, will be found lacking and sentenced to oblivion on that day.
Do you agree or disagree? This is important for you. If you even slightly disagree, (a shade or a shadow or a degree of turning), perhaps it is because you identify with this world’s view. Perhaps you are becoming indistinguishable from this world?
I recently heard a comment by a Christian, stating that he disagrees with the recent Hamas slaughter of Jews and the ensuing anti-Jewish, anti-Semitic riots and the hostile and violent threats against American Jews and American Jewish students at scores of American universities. But at a recent neighborhood get-together, when the subject came up and several people spoke out in favor of this violence, murder and terrorism on American campuses, he did not want to state his beliefs for fear of alienation. He just wanted to “fit in”.
On another occasion, a Christian couple did not want to leave their church when the teaching had veered from Christianity and had begun to embrace obvious and blatant anti-Christian views because ‘they had too many friends there’ and wanted to “fit in”. Imagine that: A Christian wanting to fit in with the world.
One last example is that several Christian friends follow and recommend a self-proclaimed prophet, Dutch Sheets. Sheets, who either unwittingly, ignorantly or foolishly, began to attend meetings with a ‘Charismatic style’ preacher, Todd Bentley. Bentley, who, earlier in his life, had been convicted of sexually assaulting a young boy. Later in his ministry, he was found to be having extra-marital affairs, and in his ‘ministry engagements’, began espousing heretical teachings and had become abusive toward some attendees of his so-called revival meetings, punching them, as a way of showing off his power, one can only suppose.
The problem with Dutch Sheets ‘mistakes and missteps’ is that by the very self-appointed title of being a prophet, Sheets should have known by Devine prophetic knowledge, that Bentley was a fraud. (He could at the very least done some natural, due diligence on Bentley’s background.)
I have to ask why would these professing Christians follow and recommend such a character as Dutch Sheets – whether he is truly repentant or not? Could it be that some of Sheet’s teachings agree to some of what these Christians believe? Or could it be that they satisfy some of what they would like to believe? It fits in with how the world of Paganism thinks, doesn’t it? Just imagine!
Have you not read where the Apostle, James, asks “Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore, whoever wants to be a friendoftheworld makes himself an enemy of God?”(James 4 verse 4).
Use discernment. Be Berean. Don’t just imagine!
Your Brother and Friend,
Mike Young
Imagine there’s no heaven, It’s easy if you try
No hell below us, Above us only sky
Imagine all the people, Living for today
Imagine there are no countries, It isn’t hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for, And no religion, too
Imagine all the people, Living life in peace
You may say that I’m a dreamer, But I’m not the only one
I hope someday you’ll join us, And the world will be as one
Imagine no possessions, I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger, A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people, Sharing all the world
You may say that I’m a dreamer, But I’m not the only one
I hope someday you’ll join us, And the world will live as one
The church seems to have a semi-captive audience, which is quite the opportunity for teaching useful, helpful and productive things into people’s lives. Right? So, I am wondering what useful things are being taught in our churches, and can we do better? I can tell you that, in many churches, they are teaching mostly good things.
BIBLE STORIES?
But even with all the good things, I still have to wonder, why we hear so much about “Bible Stories’? Are we really needing to hear stories about the Bible, or told there are stories in the Bible? (Or am I just nitpicking?)
Still, aren’t the scripture’s “breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness?” (see 2nd Timothy 3, verse 16). That’s not just a ‘story’ is it?
It seems strange to hear when pastors, preachers, evangelists, theologians and Bible teachers start their message, Bible lesson or sermon with the words, “This story is found in the book of (fill in the blank).“
Honestly, that just makes me cringe.
I think I know what they probably mean when they call a Bible passage, ‘a story’, but that word conjures up mental images of fables, novels, and fictional books. The online Dictionary defines the word ‘story’ as, “an account of imaginary or real people and events told for entertainment.”
But a review of the Bible shows that the word ‘story’ is used sparsely, just seven times (in the New American Standard version of the Bible). And, it is only used twice in the King James version – and is used there to report legends, rumors or reports about a King; and it is used only eight times in the English Standard – reporting the same things as the New American Standard version – but it adds the word ‘story’ to the book of Acts chapter 20, verse 9, to describe a multistory building.
You will find that on four instances in the New American Standard version, the Bible uses the word ‘story’ to describe a multilevel house or building. (see Ezekiel 41, verse 6 and 7. Again in 1st Kings 6, verses 6 and 8. And finally in Ezekiel 47 verse 7.)
Twice the word ‘story’ is used to report on the reputation, rumors or legends about King Solomon, his greatness and what he had built. (2nd Chronicles 9 verse 5, and in 1st Kings 10 verse 6.)
So, the word ‘story’ as it is used in the Bible, is NEVER about a ‘story’, an account of imaginary or real people and events told for entertainment, a tale, a yarn or a spiel.
The Bible just is not about ‘stories’. Still, You could say (and probably already have said) that I AM just nitpicking words. But I don’t think so.
I believe we, Christians, have been taught and have allowed ourselves to view the Bible in ways other than what it is intended.
Some of these ways in which we view the Bible can be useful and helpful for our understanding; other ways, when we use the Bible as a book of stories, are simply useful to muse about, entertain ourselves, stir our imagination and to revise what we read in the Bible, turning it into something we consider as a ‘better translation’, that which is more palatable to our tastes, that better fits our preconceived earthly and human notions.
The Bible, is the holiest of books, and describes Itself as the very Breath of God. The Bible contains 82,815 words, composing 31,103 verses, 1,189 chapters and 66 books written by 40 authors over a span of 1,500 years, and despite that complexity, it is a book that has been verified as authentic, proven itself by the hundreds of millions of changed live and has literally changed the course of world history in its fight against the evils of this world.
The Bible is God’s Prophetic Narrative of instruction and inspiration, useful to prepare His people with every good work, perfecting and conforming those who believe, into the image of Christ.
The Bible discusses issues and topics such as geography, sociology, anthropology, science, philosophy, ethics, the church, God and man, community, family, the state, law, arts and media, labor, politics, history, and race relations, instructing on these matters, but the Main Theme of the Bible is NOT about these things. Nor is the Bible a disconnected chronicle of stories, one after another, for us to read and muse about.
The Bible is about God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. It is about God’s plan and purpose for His creation.
The Bible iscausative, creative, prophetic and instructional, telling us to be holy as He is holy; to have the same mind in us as the mind of Christ; to complete the good works He has prepared for us ahead of time; to be made into the very image of Christ in preparation for an eternity with Him, in His Perfect Presence and with one another.
The Word of God is CREATIVE, CAUSATIVE, PROPHETIC and INSTRUCTIONAL. The entire Bible is PROPHETIC, INFORMATIONAL, INSTRUCTIONAL and INSPIRATIONAL, “profitable for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work.”
I say, let’s consider and treat the Bible for what it really is: The Words of God.
(And while I am at it, what’s with all the religious philosophical chatter, and the ‘academia’ from the pulpits? It is one thing to define a word from the original language of Greek or Hebrew, for a better understanding. But is it necessary to add intellectual arguments, speculations, or to add a lofty flair to the Word?
This is not meant to be critical of churches nor of preachers – at least not too critical. This, instead, is meant to point out the obvious and, hopefully, to shed some light on some short-comings and oversights in some pastor’s, preacher’s Bible teacher’s and theologian’s sermons, lectures and teachings of the Bible.
The Bible was written and is intended to be read and understood by every man and woman. It is God’s love letter of instruction, encouragement and Hope to all who will believe. But because it was written long ago, in a language most of us are unfamiliar with and about customs, traditions and rituals we don’t understand, we need the trained among us to make it understandable, useful, and beneficial to us for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness so that we, the men or women of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work. (see 2nd Timothy 3 verses 16 and 17).
Most of us are a simple people, so please, let’s speak in plain and simple terms. Then when and if it is necessary, explain the complicated things as simply as possible.
The Bible says we are to “increase in knowledge” but the Bible intends that we are to be “increasing in the knowledge of God”.
Now to my subject: “HEY PREACHER. HELP! WE ARE DROWNING OUT HERE!”, or, in other words, “please teach us the Bible like Jesus teaches the Bible”. All of us need to know the main things of the Bible which will aid, assist and lead us to thinking and behavior that will please God – and benefit us.
Here is a good example of what I am driving at: The book of Galatians, chapter 5, tells us what we should do with what we are learning:
Galatians 5:16But I say to you, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. Verse 17. For the desire of the flesh is against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, in order to keep you from doing whatever you want. Verse 18. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Verse 19. Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: sexual immorality, impurity, indecent behavior, verse 20, idolatry, witchcraft, hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, verse 21, envy,drunkenness,carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Did you get that? We are to “walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. Paul goes on to say that there is something you need to know ABOUT GOD by KNOWING GOD, and that is “that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” Honestly! That is something worth knowing, wouldn’t you say?
Galatians chapter 5 is a stark and dire warning of the dangers and the disastrous outcomes of sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality (total irresponsibility, lack of self-control), idolatry of any kind, sorcery, even in its benevolent-seeming forms like horoscopes, etc., hostility, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions [that promote heresies], envy, drunkenness, riotous behavior, and otherthings like these.
Now, let’s further narrow our focus to just one issue so we can simplify. Let’s talk briefly about this ‘desire of the flesh’, and gain some Knowledge that we can – and must – use.
(Now for the ‘academic’ stuff). Desire, as used in Galatians 5, verse 16, comes from the Greek words, ‘epithumia’, meaning passionate longing, lust, an eagerness for, and an inordinate desire ( for things such as sex, alcohol, drugs, pornography, anger, revenge, etc.)
And, the word flesh, as used here ‘sarx’, which means “carnal”, of human origin or empowerment. referring to making decisions (followed by actions) according to self – in other words, something done apart from and independent from God.
Now, let’s narrow our focus to just one issue found in Galatians chapter 5: drunkenness, and see what God has to say.
This might be where some of you might say, “But I don’t have a problem with (drinking) alcohol. So, you can skip this one.” That would be true if you don’t drink. Or perhaps you might say, “I just drink for the taste or for the social exchange. I never get drunk.”
Okay. But then I have to ask, how does one GET drunk? Someone gets drunk by drinking. Right? And, anyone who does have a problem with overdrinking or with alcoholism, got there by thinking “I don’t have a problem”, and by taking their first drink. No one plans or planned on becoming an alcoholic. But it happens.
Let me flatly state: If you drink alcohol, you either don’t have a problem YET, and hope you never do; or, you don’t see the problem; or, you could be contributing to the problem of someone else. Since that is not the issue here – we will move on. Although I will come back to this, later.
Now, Back On Topic What Is Your Church and What is Your Preacher, Preaching?
Let me ask you, when was the last time you heard your pastor preach on the dangers of drunkenness? (Or for that matter, on the dangers of sexual immorality, impurity, indecent behavior, idolatry, witchcraft, hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, envy, carousing, and things like these? (And now is when I say, “I thought so”?)
As a caveat, let me say that maybe he (your pastor) has an occasional drink – although I sincerely hope not. But if he does, he may not consider drinking a problem, therefore, he never preaches on it!
For example, I live in an ‘over 55 neighborhood’. Data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health indicate that approximately 20 percent of adults aged 60 to 64 and around 10 percent over age 65, (the percentages drop because people are passing away at this age), report current binge drinking. Older adults can experience a variety of problems from drinking alcohol, especially those who take certain medications, have health problems or those who drink heavily. There are special considerations facing older adults who drink, including and increased Sensitivity to Alcohol. This means that 86% of people aged 65 and older who die from excessive alcohol use die from chronic conditions as opposed to acute causes.
And from what I can see at our neighborhood functions and what I see in the street on trash pickup day, there is a lot of drinking going on. And it is a problem for so many families.
From a personal standpoint, I have lost my mother, my father and a brother to an alcohol related death. My wife lost her father and a brother to alcohol related deaths. My wife and I stopped drinking in our twenties.
Please read these statistics about alcohol abuse and alcoholism:
Alcohol abuse, alcoholism, and alcohol use disorder (AUD) kill over 3 million people each year, accounting for up to 6% of global deaths.
140,557 Americans die, on average, from the effects of alcohol in an average year.
According to the 2022 NSDUH, over 61 million people ages 12 and older (21.7% in this age group) reported binge drinking in the past month (see glossary for definition of binge drinking).
This includes: According to the 2022 N.S.D.U.H, 16 million adults ages 18 and older (6.3% in this age group) reported heavy alcohol use in the past month (see glossary for definition of heavy alcohol use). This includes:
Roughly 29.5 million people in the United States have alcohol use disorder, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Heavy drinking costs the country more than $249 million annually American Journal of Preventive Medicine) and causes 232 million missed workdays each year (Parsley, Network Open).
Alcohol also takes a human toll. Between 2015 and 2019, excessive alcohol consumption contributed to about 140,000 deaths among adults ages 20 to 64 each year. Those deaths included acute causes like car crashes and alcohol poisoning, as well as chronic conditions such as liver disease or cancer. Put another way, alcohol was a factor in 1 in 8 deaths among 20- to 64-year-olds. And in people ages 20 to 49, 1 in every 5 deaths was related to excessive drinking. (see Esser, M. B., Network Open).
The study was based on data from the CDC’s Alcohol-Related Disease Impact application, which assesses 58 conditions linked to alcohol consumption that the public health agency has examined for two decades, said Marissa Esser, the study’s lead author.
This is an epidemic taking its toll on people, their families, friends, leaving nothing but carnage in its wake, and we need help. We are drowning out here!
Alcohol consumption is a scourge. Perhaps perceived as a ‘pleasant occasion’ to a lot of folks, and has become socially acceptable, but a scourge on so many families, none-the-less.
Which brings us to the beauty of the scriptures of the Bible. They are black and white. No gray areas. No “shadows or turning”. For example:
What if you say that you want to drink? The Apostle Paul says, if you just want to drink, then go ahead and drink. For “All things are lawful [that is, those things that are morally legitimate and permissible], but not all things are beneficial or advantageous. All things are lawful, but not all things are constructive [to character] and edifying [to spiritual life]. No one should seek [only] his own good, but [also] that of the other person.” (see 1st Corinthians 10, verses 23 and 24).
In other words, Paul is asking, why chance losing your advantages over life and over sin? Why risk falling into things that are not constructive for your life? And, above all else, don’t be the reason another person might stumble, (if he or she cannot drink in moderation, for example).
Furthermore, the book of Luke admonishes us to, “But be on your guard, so that your hearts will not be weighed down with dissipation anddrunkenness and the worries of life, and that this day will not come on you suddenly, like a trap; (see Luke 21 verse 34).
The Apostle Paul also warns us not to“get drunk with wine, in which there is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.” (see Ephesians 5 verse 18).
So, let me, once again ask, “just how is it one gets drunk?” (Answer: They take a drink. Then another, and another.)
Why would any Christian be so foolish, in the 21st century, to make excuses for drinking, such as ‘they drank wine in the Bible’ or ‘they drank to relax’, when other means are available in our century and when the risks are so high?
Couldn’t we, as Christians, be good examples for our families and for others?
Drinking doesn’t add anything profitable or constructive to your life. You don’t need it. So, please, think it through, and don’t drink.
Now to all you dear pastors and preachers out there. So many of you have a captive audience, and they look to you for guidance. Most of your flock trusts you. So, I am pleading with you. Don’t look for the easy way out on this. Don’t look for the exceptions in people’s conduct to excuse risky or dangerous behavior. Simply teach the way the Bible teaches: Black and White. Teach the Truth. (And, to assist, here is a link to 25 Bible verses on drinking, for you to review. Bible verses regarding drinking).
I am appealing to pastor and congregant alike. Let’s get back to the basics – the main things and the plain things of the Bible. Let’s get to the things that glorify God and that benefit us – and do them.
Given enough time, just watch what happens in, to and through your life. You will be amazed. And, watch what happens to those people’s lives who are nearest to you. You will be grateful. And, watch what can happen in the watching world. They will never be the same again!
Paganism has swept and is sweeping America, violently invading our colleges, universities, our government and is influencing the Church – and your children are their target and method for growth.
(Please note: It is not enough too just to know what you are about to read, but you need to know how it affects you, how it affects your family and our world – AND HOW TO RESPOND. I am providing this brief article with information about ‘Woke-ism” and “Paganism”, how to protect yourself and your family and what you can do about it. One thing is certain: you cannot ignore it. It is after you and your children – and it won’t stop until it has you, unless you respond.)
It may seem strange to use the word, “Pagan”, to describe someone or an entire group of people. Pagan is such a misunderstood and archaic term. But it is exactly the right word to use here.
Pagans are diverse and varied people. The term Pagan comes from the Latin word paganus, which means “country dweller”; paganism can refer to polytheism, (the belief in many (false) gods), or the worship of more than one god, such as polytheism, as in ancient Rome. A pagan is also considered to be one who, for the most part, has no religion and indulges in worldly delights and material possessions; someone who revels in sensual pleasures; a hedonistic or self-indulgent individual.
Another, more modern term is neo-paganism, which refers to some of the contemporary forms of paganism such as Wicca, and Druidry.
Modern “pagan” practices are actually similar to their ancient counterparts in that they rely heavily on hedonism—sensual gratification and self-indulgence, and the pursuit of happiness and pleasure to the exclusion of everything else. In ancient times, sexual ceremonies were a major part of pagan religions. The Old Testament references these perverted religions in such passages as Deuteronomy 23:17, Amos 2:7–8, and Isaiah 57:7–8.
Though they are numerous and varied in their practices and beliefs, pagans do hold to some similar beliefs. For example:
The physical world is a good place, one to be taken pleasure in by everyone.
Everyone is considered to be part of this Mother Earth.
Divinity reveals itself in every facet of the world.
Every being, man and animal, is a derivative of the divine. As such, all are gods and goddess.
Most pagan religions do not have messiahs.
Doctrine is superseded by one’s own responsibility.
Solar and lunar cycles are significant in pagan worship.
From a Christian viewpoint, pagans are generally characterized as those who are caught up in any self-realized religious-seeming act, or practice that is NOT distinctly Christian, whereas some argue that a pagan can be anyone with no real religion at all. It is all about the self-created beliefs and feelings of the individual.
The Apostle Paul wrote, “Furthermore, since they, (pagans), did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, He gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done”(Romans 1:28).
In spite of common assumptions, most pagan ‘worshipers’ claim they don’t believe in Satan. However, there’s no question that Satan is their chief source of influence and control. Though they will deny it, they deify Satan in their worldly and sensual practices. Paul tells us plainly how Satan works in the lives of people without God, through his power, his signs, his deceit, and his lies.
Finally, Pagans can seem to be good guys, too, (but don’t let appearances fool you. If they don’t get their way, they can be an angry, violent, self-centered and vicious lot).
One of the most striking characteristics of Paganism is their dislike for an ‘absolute truth’ such as found in Judaism and Christianity. They even have a disdain for rules and regulations – particularly if the rules do not fit their personal habits, practices, belief system and worldview. In fact, saying they ‘dislike’ absolute truth is a gross understatement – they HATE it, and they will oppose it, even violently. This helps explain why so many Pagans hate Israel and traditional Christianity. (It also explains why our college campuses are aflame with the vitriol of ‘antisemitism’. It is an overt expression of Paganism.
However, let’s remember, as Christians, our quarrel is not with the flesh and blood person. Our quarrel is with root of evil, “the rulers, the powers, the world forces of darkness, the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places”. (see Ephesians 6, verse 12) It is these forces in the spiritual or the unseen realms, that directs their thoughts and actions – and this is the only place an effective and lasting offensive can be waged.)
It can be a tough distinction to make when you are face-to-face with a person who is pleasant at one moment, then suddenly and without warning becomes a quarrelsome and antagonistic person. Or when you are interacting with a ‘free spirit’ type who lives only for self-indulgence, and pleasure but finds any discipline too restrictive, beware. The outer person, so to speak, is like a shape-shifter. Appearing in the form that best suits their purposes for the moment, but always at-the-ready to reappear as a disagreeable, even violent foe. What lurks beneath the surface, behind the mask is not always what you expect.
Speaking to the Christian, Jew or to the social conservative, it is good to know that generally, Paganism, as it appears in politics, religion, education, science, medicine and in society at large, has the following opinions or policies as opposed toBiblical teachings:
Paganism advocates for the legalization of same-sex marriage, whereas God created males and females, alone, to be married.
Paganism advocates for the abolition of the death penaltywhereas The Bible allows the death penalty for certain crimes.
Paganism advocates for open and unrestricted immigrationwhereas The Bible allows for ‘borders’ but calls on believers to care for the foreigner and alien.
Paganism advocates for increased taxation on the richwhereas The Bible encourages and teaches reliance on God and equal treatment, including taxation.
Paganism advocates for Globalization and a One World Authority (Government)whereas The Bible warns of a coming, deadly, One World Authority (led by the anti-Christ and another beast-of-a-man).
Paganism advocates for the reordering of society modeled after Marxism-Communism and Socialismwhereas The Bible teaches a God-reliant government and rejects elitist authoritarianism (See the Tower of Babel).
Paganism advocates for an Elitist Central governancewhereas The Bible teaches and strongly suggests a representative style of government.
Paganism advocates for a Marxist-Communist-Socialist government control of the economywhereas the Bible teaches personal responsibility and suggests a free market style of economy.
Paganism advocates for a strong and powerful welfare state whereas The Bible teaches that the Church and Christians are primarily responsible for the widow, the orphan and the needy.
Paganism advocates that there should be no free tradewhereas The Bible encourages Free trade and entrepreneurialism.
Paganism advocates for ‘Religion’ separate and abolished from governmentwhereas The Bible teaches a system of representative government that relies on Biblical principles and reliance on God.
Paganism advocates for free and unrestricted abortionwhereas The Bible teaches protecting life, especially children and babies.
Paganism advocates for government control through a heavy and progressive tax systemwhereas The Bible sets standards of fair and equitable taxation.
Paganism advocates for the abolition of capitalismwhereas The Bible teaches the rejection of Socialist style economies.
Paganism advocates that the government should shape all aspect of lifewhereas The Bible says individuals, families and the Church should influence and shapes all aspects of life.
Paganism advocates for restricted personal freedoms as dictated by government officialswhereas The Bible teaches Jesus came to set us free for freedom’s sake.
Paganism advocates for the abolition of religion or restructuring of religion through ecumenicalism with government oversightwhereas The Bible rejects all false religions (those outside Christianity) and sets the standards for government to be run by the people.
Paganism advocates for minorities populations to be shown unbalanced favor to amend for perceived past inequities (reparations)whereas The Bible teaches true equality.
Paganism advocates that the private sector reports to government to restrict private equity growthwhereas the Bible stipulates that secular government should have no part in private sector matters.
Paganism advocates all the variations of LBGQT and transgender rights as superior to personal rightswhereas The Bible teaches loving the sinner, but that those who practice LBGQT and transgenderism as aberrant and perverse, and such will not inherit the Kingdom of God.
The Bible teaches that Christians should be at peace with all people whenever and wherever possible. But since Paganism stands diametrically opposed to Conservatism, Christianity and Judaism on almost each and every issue, it is easy to see why the Pagans among us have declared war on Judaism and Christianity. (See “The Global March to Marxist-Communism, a.k.a., Paganism”).
Finally, below here are two great articles and videos from The Fuel Project to help inform you and to guide you in a Biblical Christian response to the very real and present threat.
OUR GREATEST CHALLENGE
I will close this article saying that you and I, as Christians, are not to hate anyone, even when and if they insult you, persecute you, falsely say all kinds of evil against you or to harm you because of your Christian faith, beliefs, standards and conduct. In fact, we are to love them in return. (see Matthew 5:38-42).
Exploring The New World Order From A Christian Perspective.
The name Babylon occurs in the Bible almost three-hundred times. The majority of those references are in the Old Testament – and with good reason. It was the first great city of the world. However, Babylon is much more than this. The Bible clearly and intriguingly states that “Mystery Babylon” is also the source of all abominations of the Earth (Revelation 17, verse 5) – a fountainhead of evil that began flowing through history thousands of years ago and which profoundly impacts the world today, in ways many don’t realize. Indeed, Revelation tells us that “Mystery Babylon” will survive until the end of time, when God finally judges it with terminal violence.
This series is a walk-through history that follows the threads, exposes the idolatry, the symbolism and thought-processes that originated in Babylon. We discover its influence in all false religion, astrology, freemasonry, world-famous landmarks, the theory of evolution, philosophy, the United Nations, the European Union and much more. We discover that ever since God scattered the Babylonians from the Tower of Babel back in Genesis 11, it has been Satan’s intention to reverse the process and bring the whole world back together again under a single world system, ruled by the Antichrist. Above all we learn how to recognize our enemy so that we will not be deceived and instead live with faith, hope, love and courage in the face of Babylon’s demonic schemes.
TRENCH – The Video – A Christian Guide to the Culture War.
Covid. Globalism. Cancel Culture. Gender and Transgender Confusion. Cultural Marxism. Authoritarian Government. The Rise of China. Climate Change. Black Lives Matter. The Great Reset. Feminism. Migration Crises. Immorality. ‘Safetyism’.
In this book and series The Fuel Project unfolds a Biblical theory by which to understand all these issues and more, explain why the political left and right are so divided, and help Christians navigate the times in which we live.
What Is Your Church and What is Your Preacher, Preaching? 
