Tag Archives: #Theology

Abiding in God’s Word: continued

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“ALL ABOARD!” 

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DSC_4612Let’s return to our seats in the third carriage of our ‘time-travel’ train. New passengers wanting to board should first get their ticket by clicking here. All new passengers will need to go back in time and walk through the carriages, as explained in the ‘ticket’ so they may fully appreciate what’s next on our journey together. (A brief summary appears below.)

DSC_4603Doubtless this seems an unusual, even novel, way of time travelling? Each ‘carriage’ represents one day within a week when I discovered some new things about the Word of God (ie. the Holy Bible). Here, in the 3rd carriage I dig out my notes and we consider what’s being taught and how we can abide in God’s Word.

First , let’s recap with Jesus Christ’s rebuke to the Jewish teachers. They’d recognised the authority of his cousin John the Baptist but were slow, if not blind, to comprehend who Jesus is. And so he told them God’s own testimony about himself was being shown though the work he was doing for them! His closest disciple recorded this as follows.:

“But I have a greater witness than John’s; for the works which the Father has given Me to finish—the very works that I do—bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me. 37And the Father Himself, who sent Me, has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form. 38But you do not have His word abiding in you, because whom He sent, Him you do not believe. 39You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. 40But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life…” [John 5 NKJV emphases added]

The meaning of verse 38 can be otherwise summarised:

“The abiding word that is written has to become real so that it becomes the manifest Word – and then you believe and see miracles!

Sometimes we pray for revival or change and when it comes we don’t recognise it. Or, we even reject it because it doesn’t fit into our (Biblical) box…

“The abiding word is what positions us for the next thing that God is going to do!”

NOTES

That was where we’d got to in this 3rd carriage on the journey. Now we’re back onboard lets continue with my notes as our train ‘rocks on’…!

In Jesus’ day the Jews were praying for and expecting their Messiah or Anointed One who would lead them out of subjugation to ungodly Roman rule. The parties of scribes and pharisees were experts in interpreting and understanding their ancient scriptures. These included words inspired by God and received by their prophets about His plans for this special people and their forthcoming ‘Son of David’. But Jesus was forthright in denouncing those ‘authorities’ for not recognising who he is and that God had indeed sent him, as in the above quotation.

The very same applies to us, does it not?  That is, we cannot recognise who Jesus truly is unless God’s Word abides within; which means, it lives deep inside our whole being.

What is The Abiding Word? The private instruction Jesus gave to his close circle of disciples on the eve of his trial and crucifixion included this explanation:

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away;[a] and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.

5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will[b] ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. [John 15 NKJV emphases added]

Herein, Jesus is making a connection between access to the unlimited AND what is abiding IN our heart.

Meditation is key

  • Not worldly/Eastern meditation, however, because that is ’emptying’ the mind.
  • Biblical meditation is filling the mind and does not make one vulnerable to outside influences.
  • This meditation is taking what God has said and pondering it in our heart, or ‘chewing’ and contemplating (also known as Lectio Divina – not the theological analysis of scripture but regarding Christ as key to its meaning).
  • Abiding puts us in a position for I N C R E A S E.
  • Access to unlimited increase is directly related to how we abide in what He’s already said.
  • Revelation from scripture must lead to a God encounter.
  • The Canon of scripture is designed to lead us into an encounter with The Holy One.

Continuing the first above quotation from John 5:

41 “I do not receive honor from men. 42 But I know you, that you do not have the love of God in you. 43 I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive. 44 How can you believe, who receive honor from one another, and do not seek the honor that comes from the only God? 45 Do not think that I shall accuse you to the Father; there is one who accuses you—Moses, in whom you trust. 46 For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me. 47 But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?” [John 5 NKJV emphases added]

Faith and fear of man cannot co-exist. So, do I want God’s approval or man’s?

God waits to pour honour on His people.  Therefore, the life of extraordinary faith usually has a lot of favour following within it.

[All railway photos were taken on the Mid-Hants Watercress Line’s World War II day in 2012, a fun day and opportunity for re-enactment groups to dress appropriately.]

5 reasons why Christians should not accept Jesus as their saviour

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What an outrageously provocative title!

T E HannaIt’s not mine but belongs to one of your fellow readers, T.E. Hanna, a theology graduate whose blog Of Dust And Kings publishes interesting discussions about God, His Kingdom and what it means to be human.

I like the way his theology ticks.

So I’d like to introduce T.E. to you through the following ‘guest post’, which was one of the first I read. His first two points and the last one match my own perceptions 100%.:

5 Reasons Why Christians Should Not Accept Jesus As Their Saviour

Touch_Opt - Credit Espejo

In 1989, Depeche Mode released their 23rd single in the UK, a hit song that quickly climbed the charts and would eventually be covered by such notable musicians as Johnny Cash, Jerry Williams, Nina Hagen, and Marilyn Manson. The song was entitled “Personal Jesus” and the steady rhythm of the chorus drummed out the following lines:

Your own personal Jesus, Someone to hear your prayers,  Someone who cares. Your own personal Jesus,  Someone to hear your prayers, Someone who’s there …reach out and touch Faith.

While Depeche Mode used the “personal Jesus” idea as a metaphor for codependent human relationships, the concept has nevertheless permeated western Christian culture. Testimonies typically hail back to the moment when one has “finally accepted Jesus as their personal Lord and savior” and the standard evangelism question points to the same idea: “Have you accepted Jesus as your personal savior?”

Yet Scripture knows nothing of a personalized faith.

Bear with me here, and let me clarify what I am NOT saying. I am NOT saying that we should not be impacted on a personal level by the Christian faith – we absolutely should. I am NOT saying that we do not come to Christ on a personal basis – we absolutely must.

However, the idea of a personal savior has taken on a life of its own, replacing the locus of the Christian life with our personal agendas and pushing Jesus to the margins. We customize, privatize, and minimize the Christian story, relegating Jesus to little more than “someone to hear your prayers, someone who cares.” This corrodes the very heart of the Christian faith, eating away at its life transforming power, and ripping Jesus away from His divinity in order to wedge Him into an idol fashioned after a hyper-individualistic culture. This simply won’t do.

Christians need to reject the idea of the personal Jesus, and we need to do it for 5 reasons:

1. Christians Are Called To Follow, Not Accept

The central cry of Jesus was never “accept me.” In fact, it was quite the opposite. Jesus walked a path which called Him to be despised and rejected, betrayed and belittled, criticized and crucified. The call of Jesus to His disciples and to us is to follow. Following requires leaving things behind and forging forward, laying down your life that you might find it, dying to yourself that your might discover the life abundant in the purposes of God. Acceptance is passive. Following is inherently active.

2. Christians Conform To Christ, Not Christ To Christians

At the heart of spiritual formation is the move to become “Christ-like”. Often, this challenges our preconceptions and wars against our desires. Good. It is supposed to. The Jesus Way is a way of transformation, of exposing our darker side to the Light of the World that the shadows may be cast away and we may become luminaries of incandescent glory, reflecting the blinding rays of the Son. We must never customize Jesus, reducing Him to an eternal moral teacher that can give us a hand when things get rough. We must allow ourselves to be confronted by Him, restored through Him, and conformed to Him.

3. Christians Are Called To Community, Not Isolation

John Wesley once wrote that “Scripture knows nothing of solitary religion.” From Genesis to Revelation, we see the story of a God who is creating a people, not just persons. In the instances where we see individuals emphasized, they are emphasized for the purpose of the people. Abraham was called individually to carry the covenant for what would become the people of God. Moses was called individually to free the Israelite people. David was called individually to lead a nation of God’s people. The prophets were called individually to be the mouthpiece of God to His people. The disciples were called individually only to then be sent forth to gather a global people. The popular notion that Christianity is a personal affair, making the community of faith unnecessary, finds no basis in the pages of Scripture. It is only in community that we find accountability, corporate prayer, unified worship, and the edification of the saints. It is only in community that we become the Body of Christ.

4. Christians Are Called To Serve, Not Be Served

So much of Christian rhetoric emphasizes the blessing of God and de-emphasizes the way of the cross. Much of popular Christianity is about seeking these blessings, about conforming God to our will, about how God somehow is charged with serving us. I am not diminishing the reality of the blessedness of God, but blessing is hardly the entire picture. Jesus completely inverts the concept of privilege, calling His followers away from notions of entitlement and into a life of servanthood. The reality of this is that, as we serve one another, we will be served in the process; but the notion that service is somehow owed to us is completely overturned. We, who claim ourselves as children of the greatest King who ever existed, express this most dutifully as servants.

5. Christians Are Saved For More Than Just Themselves

The Christian concept of salvation does more than just look over its shoulder at a sinful past now washed clean. It does more than look at the present as we are engaged in a process of spiritual renewal. It looks to the future, at the outworking of our salvation expressed as a transformed people transforming the world. In other words, Christians are not just saved from sin, they are saved to God. We become active participants in the breaking forth of God’s Kingdom as the redemptive order confronts and exposes the manifestation of sin in society. To limit the concept of salvation to a personal experience (or worse, a personal event) truncates the fullness of what it means to be Christian. We are not just saved from a life of sin; we are saved for a world where sin still manifests.

The popular evangelistic rhetoric calling for people to “accept Jesus as your personal savior” needs to be overturned. It is only in the call to “come and follow” and to “take up your cross” that we begin to regain the deeper things which have historically defined God’s people. It is here, in the deep water, where Christianity comes alive.

So… reach out and touch faith.

What do you think?

How does the personalization of Jesus impact the Christian faith?

Read, and contribute to, several commendable comments from readers and T.E. by scrolling to the foot of this link to ‘Personal Jesus’. I trust you’ll be as blessed as me.

I read it after attending our church home group where we’d worked through Romans 6 in some depth. Thank you T.E for your five points which, together with that scripture, confirmed my objections posted in a discussion elsewhere, as mentioned in my post  covering Steve Chalke’s apostasy (here).

Abiding in God’s Word

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Jesus told the Jews who believed Him, , “IF you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.  And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:31-32 emphasis added)

COME, take a train ride with me and consider the relevance of Jesus’ claim for today.

DSC_4616Why on a train? Another intriguing ‘train’ of thoughts and insights is about to pass by, like one of those old-time steam locomotives. They amble along, which allows time for passengers to chat as well as to explore carriages. I can rummage around looking for any interesting ‘cargo’ and such ‘trunks’ often hold hidden gems.  Also, conversation with passengers may bring a confirmation, an affirmation or even a revelatory word from the Lord. So won’t you go back three weeks and share my latest ‘trip’ with me?

It’s a free ride, so no need to buy a ticket as we dash through to the platform where its entrance acts as a ‘portal’ and we jump back three weeks in time. On board this short, now moving train we’re welcomed by a kaleidoscopic collection of inter-linked thoughts and insights. Let’s check what’s in this first carriage before we move further along the train…

1st ‘carriage’

Here I sit to dig out of my briefcase some prophetic words I’d been given in 1996 (see Why I’m writing). This sheet of paper opens by stating how the day started with a call from someone who’d heard the Lord instruct them to call me with verses 3, 5 and 9 in the Book of Joshua. Re-reading that first chapter now, however, my gaze fixes upon verses 6 to 8 leading into verse 9 and some words seem to have an added emphasis, as below.:

[1After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: 2“Moses my servant is dead. Now then…]7…Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

JoshuaMy study Bible says this account of the Israelite tribes’ journey into the land that the God of Abraham had promised him and his descendants was written about 3,400 years ago!   I note the fact that Moses’ closest assistant was told to keep entirely  focused upon what Moses wrote and upon nothing else. Only by so doing would Joshua and all his people prosper, and God would be with them where they were about to go!

[What Moses wrote is known as the Pentateuch, a Greek term meaning ‘five-volumed book’ and derived from its Jewish designation, ‘five-fifths of the law’. The Israelites knew it as ‘Torah’, meaning ‘instruction’.  It is the first five books of the Old Testament: namely Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy.[

Then came an insight: the Torah was the only Standing Instruction this national leader had for his guidance. Furthermore, it was and is the word of God – Holy Scripture. That five-fold book was all they had to believe and follow as holy writ – unlike today with 61 more books comprising later history, poetry and prophetical writings inspired by God’s Holy Spirit. The first 5 books were all Joshua had to go on!  Even so, God promised to be with him.

So, about 3,400 years ago Joshua had his instructions but must have gained so much more under the oversight of the Living God. Over the next 1,400 years the descendants of those ancient Hebrews received many more writings inspired by God. And then about 2,000 years ago, God once again drew alongside them as ‘Immanuel’. [A Hebrew word meaning ‘With us is God’ and a title for Jesus Christ, as used by the OT prophet Isaiah when he prophesied Jesus’ virgin birth 700 years earlier – Isaiah 7:14 refers.]

By the time this later Joshua (which means ‘saviour’) lived amongst the Jews as Jesus of Nazareth, their scripture had grown from 5 to 39 authoritative books, and which are  known to Christians as the Old Testament. [Some traditional Christian denominations recognise a few more books: see How many books are in the Bible?]

Jesus taught the people with an authority greater than that of their priests because His words came direct from God. [See John 8: 25-39 for His declaration on this issue and which leads into the opening verse of this blog. The last part of v 32 is often quoted but ignores the specific condition for achieving freedom – ie. abiding in God’s word.]

Within a few decades of Jesus’ life another 27 books written by apostles and disciples were recognised as being inspired by God and collated into the New Testament as a complete Bible. So we Christians have a huge Standing Instruction.

Another insight comes: As in Joshua’s time, Jesus’ first followers had God’s promise to go with them, only this time they wouldn’t be going into just the small area of land at the eastern end of the Mediterranean. This time Jesus, the Son of God, commissioned His followers to ‘go to the ends of the world’ after the Holy Spirit would visit and stay upon them.

And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.  Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. [Matthew 28:18-20]

Like Joshua, those Apostles’ and disciples’ Standing Instructions were based upon an existing body of authoritative scripture that was augmented not only by Jesus’ teachings but also by continuing personal direction from Jesus and the Father. That is, this time God’s promise to always be with them was not just for one person only but for many, and His Holy Spirit would be present within them as an endowment of power! Thus, they then lived and moved with God’s Spirit upon them.

2nd ‘carriage’

The week I’m re-visiting personal prophecies I also come across Bobby Conner’s word for 2013, Calling All Warriors. It stirs me deeply and seems so appropriate for today. (It also connects into the ‘warrior’ word from the UK Prophetic Council, as published here.)

Awaken Your Might - credit; James Nesbit www.jamesnart.com

Awaken Your Might by James Nesbit – purchase from http://www.jamesnart.net

On the Saturday, a mentoring day, I see an inspirational picture matching Bobby’s word.  Also that morning, Dr Stone states that the 1st chapter of Joshua is important for these days. So I open my old NIV at that very place and grin. What do you know!  As I do so Sharon emphasises her message by quoting the verses I’d just seen and which I’d highlighted many years ago (as in above image).:

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” [Joshua 1:9]

I’m astounded, as you may have realised from my published account of that day (here). Sharon prophesies that the Church will be moving into what it was always meant to be like, but it will not be easy – as when Joshua led the Israelites into their Promised Land.

3rd ‘carriage’

The next day at church our minister teaches about ‘Abiding in His Word’ – and for me this directly connects into Joshua again!  As we considered in the 1st carriage, ‘Abiding’ was God’s Standing Instruction to Joshua, and repeated by Jesus to His followers!  The minister then opens this topic by stating:

“The Bible is not a fence that contains God, that is used to restrict Him and His works – it reveals Him!  It is guide-lines to indicate who He is and what He can/will do. The Bible is a platform from which He operates!”

Next, she quotes Bill Johnson of Bethel Church, California. (It so happens I’m reading  Healing Unplugged, which is a deep discussion between him and Randy Clark about their personal healing ministries. We’ve listened enthralled to Bill several times for he greatly loves teaching from the Word, thereby giving listeners fresh insights.) Now, our minister quotes him as follows:

“It’s hard to have the same fruit as the early Church when you value a book they didn’t have more than the Holy Spirit, whom they did have.”

That reflects in part my earlier thoughts. Next, she goes on to refer to what Jesus told the Jews about God’s own testimony about Jesus being shown though the work He was doing for them:

“But I have a greater witness than John’s; for the works which the Father has given Me to finish—the very works that I do—bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me. 37And the Father Himself, who sent Me, has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form. 38But you do not have His word abiding in you, because whom He sent, Him you do not believe. 39You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. 40But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life…” [John 5 NKJV]

Our South African minister Lindi summarises the meaning of verse 38:

“The abiding word that is written has to become real so that it becomes the manifest Word – and then you believe and see miracles!

Sometimes we pray for revival or change and when it comes we don’t recognise it. Or, we even reject it because it doesn’t fit into our (Biblical) box…

“The abiding word is what positions us for the next thing that God is going to do!”

Wow, all this is amplifying and enhancing my meditations during the week.

4th ‘carriage’

The very next day I’m prompted – and I don’t know why I should do so – to check that a link on an old posting is working. This is the source’s homepage for The Bridegroom Cometh, but I find it’s dead!  So I check again a few hours later, but this time I’m so utterly astounded to see there the picture I’d bought only two days ago and hangs in the study!  (As above under ‘2nd carriage’.) Moments later Nina enters the study, sees the picture on-screen and her jaw drops!

IS IT ANY WONDER I was absolutely stunned? (As first reported here)

What is our Lord and God saying and indicating? 

Can you hear Him?

May I summarise?…

God gives plenty of instructions for us to meditate upon, to follow and live by so that we will always remain, or abide, in them. In addition to that He gives us Himself – so what more could we possibly ask or want?

Here’s one of my favorites on abiding from that very special, private teaching time in the upper room on the eve of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion.:

“He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.”

22 Judas (not Iscariot) said to Him, “Lord, how is it that You will manifest Yourself to us, and not to the world?”

23 Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him. 24 He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me…” 

Then, when talking about His being the True Vine, Jesus again stresses the great importance of abiding in God’s holy word.:

“If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.9 “As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. 10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love…”

These are from John 14 and John 15 respectively in NKJV, but it’s much better to read the whole event and thereby gain its full context. So why not invite the Lord to be with you as you read and meditate upon chapters 13-17 of the Gospel according to John?

May He be with you in Spirit…

Our train halts in a station for a quite a while and we take a break to walk around the station. Here we find a number of civilians and military personnel dressed as though they’re in the 1940s!  We recognise one distinguished figure boarding as we’re called back on board and enter the 3rd carriage to continue on our journey (click to proceed).

Are ‘Christians’ leading homosexuals to Hell?

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On watch... Thank you to Tembisa for this link, which reinforces Steve Hill’s warning of a spiritual avalanche. It is an excellent analysis of a better approach to unhelpful, even dangerous, attitudes which could promote a false Gospel. Also, Hilary White’s linked article provides some keen insights into the Steve Chalke issue. More about this subject may be found in Gillan Scott’s solid review,  Unconditional: Rescuing the Gospel from gays vs. Christians Debate. There are extensive comments on this and to his related posts, in which I’ve participated lately. I have, however, one ‘off-side’ reservation. It is recommended by Prof.Tony Campolo, whom I saw many years ago. In reading his Conversation about politics at the time of the last US elections, I was concerned over his using Ephesians 1:18-22 to stress God’s action through earthly politics whereas the verses are about powers in heavenly realms. I trust our professor will acknowledge the King’s soon return to rule on earth?

Steve Hill WARNS – Stop Spiritual Avalanche!

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steve-hill-portraitOn 11th Dec 2012 Steve Hill wrote.:

This is coming to you from a man who has just passed through the valley of the shadow of death. Since my close call with eternity just a short while ago … everything has become clearer. I can hear His whisper. Unabated obedience has become my mandate. That is why I’m writing this word from the Lord..:

THE SPIRITUAL AVALANCHE THAT COULD KILL MILLIONS

Avalanche - credit Steve Hill

A few days ago, after enjoying quality time with Jesus, I was surprised by an alarming vision. I saw a massive, majestic mountain covered in glistening snow. It reminded me of the Matterhorn in the Swiss Alps. Its peaks were sparkling white and I was amazed by God’s attention to detail. It was so realistic I wanted to go skiing! But I sensed that there was more that the Holy Spirit was about to reveal. As I closed my eyes, I was in a winter wonderland bustling with thousands of vacationers. The ski lodge, condos, hotels and cabins were at full capacity at this popular resort.

Day quickly turned to night as the skiers, snowboarders and sports enthusiasts were settling in. Anticipation grew as the snow began to fall. Everyone headed to bed believing tomorrow would be a day of sheer enjoyment on freshly covered slopes. For an avid skier, the exhilaration of being the first one to race down a new blanket of snow is a dream come true.

Throughout the night, winter storms dropped several feet of new snow on the slopes. The night ski patrol was put on full alert. Their mission was clear. With the potential of killer avalanches they took to their posts.

I began to weep as the vision continued to unfold along with its spiritual application.

The ski patrol operated like a well-trained platoon. Some boarded helicopters manned with small bombs, others jumped on snowmobiles loaded with hand-held explosive devices. What seemed to be a strategic group of sharpshooters were stationed at the base maneuvering anti-tank weapons aimed at the snow-covered peaks. They fired their weapons at strategic points in the “avalanche zone” to force avalanches before the snow accumulated to a life-threatening depth. Left unchecked, the accumulation of heavy, dense snow packed on top of lighter snow could easily slide down with incredible speed and force, resulting in enormous damage and loss of life.

The Lord began to speak. I trembled. The fresh, new snow represented the false teaching that is steadily falling on the ears of the body of Christ. It has been, and is, a heavy snowfall. The skiers represented believers and non-believers, trusting the resort for a safe and memorable experience. As Christians, we have been warned to be sober and vigilant (1 Peter 5:8). However, the present, awe-inspiring teachings have lulled many into a deeper sleep.

The layers upon layers of snow have been steadily covering the solid traditional truth of Christ. The truth is that foolish teaching in these days will become so fashionable even the most dedicated believer could become deceived (Matt. 24:24). It’s happening before our eyes. One (of our) spiritual leaders said the other day: “You guys are old-fashioned ‘holiness,’ we are modern-day ‘grace.’ You live in bondage while we can do anything we want.

Pastors and teachers worldwide have succumbed to heretical teachings including universal reconciliation, deification of man, challenging the validity of the Word of God including His judgements, and even lifting any boundaries, claiming His amazing grace is actually “amazing freedom.” You are free to live according to your own desires. Sound familiar? “They had no king and did what was right in their own eyes” (Judges 17:6). These popular self-proclaimed ministers of the gospel are covering the “slopes” and will be held accountable for the spiritual death of millions.

Just as the ski patrol did in this vision, those who are aware of what’s happening must take swift and accurate action. Their weapons of warfare must be aimed at the peaks and the ‘avalanche terrain’ to dispel the lies. Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers must be willing to drop spiritual bombs, fire anti-heresy missiles, and even drive into the danger zones armed with explosive truth to confront this potential avalanche. The generals of this generation must leave the war room and put their years of experience on the front lines.

Friend, I humbly encourage you to heed this vision and take it before the Lord. I’ve written it just as it was given. My responsibility is to share with the body of Christ His words to me. The ears that hear and the hands that obey are out of my control. This is not just Steve Hill telling a story. Most of what the Lord shares with me is personal and remains in my heart. But I sincerely believe that this is a warning for this hour.

Satan is “snowing the saints” but it can be stopped. In the vision I heard explosions. I saw dedicated Christian soldiers scrambling to do anything it took to bring down this avalanche before devastation occurred. One of the most powerful weapons we possess to combat this onslaught is the tongue. Let God set yours ablaze by preaching ALL the words in RED. If we take action now the result will be a tearing down of false teaching and a remaining layer of solid, God-given, Biblical instruction that will save the lost, heal the sick and strengthen Christians to do the true work of the ministry.

Footnote by RB

Underlining and emboldened text are added. My post of 12th December, Does David Cameron’s decision line up with the Bible?, closes with reference to Steve’s article.  His stirring message at The Revival Reunion was about the implications of living in or near Sodom in Lot’s day, as it applies today. In passing, Steve mentioned a vow he’d made to the Lord as he was about to die. He vowed that, should he be restored back to life, he’d continue evangelising for the sake of millions of Muslim souls!

In the circumstances, therefore, it behoves every reader to take the preceding message extremely seriously, as though issued with the holy ‘imprimatur’ of Jesus Christ Himself.

In case anyone’s puzzled or got questions…

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Readers and visitors to this blog who aren’t Christians probably have questions about the previous post’s references to a spiritual enemy. Some explanation, therefore, would be helpful for those unfamiliar with the Holy Bible, or Christian doctrine. And, in fact, the good Lord already had that in hand for you!  Some timely basic doctrine behind the last post has ‘co-incidentally’ turned up.

So without further delay, I repost an email received today – Part 6 of Rick Joyner’s series on The Great Commission (Jesus’ parting instruction to His disciples, Matt 28).:

RJoyners WftW_eNL_T_1

THE BRIDE OF CHRIST

As we have been covering, “all authority in heaven and earth” has been given to Jesus, but He has not taken that authority over the earth yet. His kingdom is going to come, and His will is going to be done on earth as it is in heaven. All of heaven lives under the domain of the King. Only Satan and the angels who followed him have rebelled from the heavenly realm and were cast down to the earth when mankind rebelled against God. Now the only rebellion against God in all of creation, the physical or spiritual realms, is found on planet earth.

John wrote that the whole earth lies in the power of the evil one. It does presently lie in his power, but as we are told in Psalms, the earth and all it contains belongs to the Lord. The authority over everything in heaven and earth is under the Lord’s domain, but He has not yet taken His authority over the earth. He could have taken dominion over the earth immediately after His resurrection, but He did not for our sakes. He left it under the domain of evil for a time for one reason—to find those who loved Him and His truth even more than they loved their own lives. They will prove this by living for Him and obeying Him against the opposition of virtually all who are on the earth and hell’s minions as well.

The Lord is all-powerful. He could dispatch of the devil and all of his demonic hordes with the flick of His finger. The Lord could have cast Satan and his hosts into the lake of fire immediately after His resurrection. He had redeemed mankind, and the earth, and it was His to take. He left it as it was for another purpose—He is seeking a bride to rule and reign with Him.

Jesus is called “the last Adam” in I Corinthians 15:45. There was a legal reason for this. The first Adam had been given dominion over the earth. When Adam succumbed to the temptation and chose to obey the evil one instead of God, Satan was able to exert his power over the earth, and we become the slaves of the one we obey. We are told in Romans 6:16:

Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness?

When man fell, all that was under his dominion fell with him, and the earth became the domain of the devil. It was a usurped domain, but this gave the evil one power over the whole earth. The reason why Jesus had to come as a man to redeem the earth was because authority over the earth was given to mankind. This is why Jesus always referred to Himself as “the Son of Man.” Only a man who walked in perfect obedience to the Lord could redeem the earth from the consequences of man’s disobedience. Jesus perfectly fulfilled this and took back the authority over the earth that had been lost by the first Adam.

We can have authority over something and not possess it yet. We could be given a car, the title could be put in our name, and it is at the dealer waiting for us to pick it up. However, until we pick it up, it is not in our possession even though it belongs to us. The title to the earth was put in Jesus’ name immediately after the cross. He just has not come to claim His possession yet in order to allow the conditions on the earth to help prepare His bride, the church, to rule with Him.

The bride of the first Adam lived in the most perfect conditions yet chose to disobey. The bride of the last Adam, Christ, will have lived in the most difficult conditions, and against the onslaught of all the powers of darkness, she will chose to obey. No other creation of God will have endured what she will have endured, and yet she will be faithful. This will be a witness to even the principalities and powers that their time is up over the earth. Even the angels will marvel at her and consider her worthy to be their judges. She will be a worthy bride and joint heir for the Son of God.

God does not tempt us with evil, but as stated in Jeremiah 20:12 and other places, He does allow us to be tested. A test is different from a temptation, though a temptation can be a test just as it was for Adam and Eve. We are tested by the Lord to help us grow and to qualify us for advancement, just as we took tests in school to see if we could be promoted to the next grade. Advancement in the Lord includes more authority. (RB’s emphasis)

As Francis Frangipane likes to say, “You never fail one of God’s tests; you just keep taking them until you pass.” That is basically true. Israel kept going in circles for forty years in the wilderness because they could not pass certain tests that were required before they could enter their Promised Land. Many Christians do the same thing and keep going in circles in their spiritual life because they keep failing the same tests. It is now time to pass the tests and go on to possess our Promised Land.

Links:

First things first…the Good News

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Now that we’re into a New Day, let’s consider what the much-admired political blogger Cranmer kicks off 2013 with – in his own inimitable way.:

THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION

Cranmer martyr“There being an interregnum in the See of Canterbury and a vacancy in the Chair of St Augustine, His Grace is back in town. It has been decided (in Twitter conclave) that he will be in charge for the next 34 days (or 80, if one goes by the spiritual Enthronement of +Justin rather than the temporal election according to statute). He was going to (re-)commence his ministry with the abolition of the CNC and much-needed reforms to the General Synod, but (on reflection) it seems wrong to begin another archiepiscopal stint with navel-gazing issues of church governance.

“One must begin with the gospel; the all-sufficiency of Christ’s mercy for salvation…

Click to continue reading his laudable summary wherein he briefly explains…

Behind the doctrine of the all-sufficiency of Christ’s mercy lurks the omnipotence of God in salvation. If humanity plays no part in his own salvation, everything is in God’s hands….

There is doctrinal mediation to be had and theological dispute to be entertained, but ultimately there is One Mediator between God and man, and that is Christ Jesus. It is through His passion that we are saved; not through any pantomime of politics fused with a religious veneer of holiness.

Amen.

An angelic perspective upon Jesus’ birth?

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Jesus & Holy Spirit - credit kzlam36.blogspot

When the angelic host appeared to shepherds outside Bethelehem and announced the birth of Jesus they must have been aware of the full identity of this new-born baby. I’d submit that their understanding would have been quite similar to what an ex-pharisee named Paul – who never claimed to have met Jesus in the flesh – wrote years later to non-Jewish followers of Jesus. Paul was exhorting them to become like Jesus and in so doing gave away a fundamental insight. In the middle of a letter written whilst imprisoned in Rome, he wrote, as translated from Greek.:

Let this same attitude, purpose and humble mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus: Who, although being essentially one with God and in the form of God, possessing the fullness of the attributes which make God God, did not think this equality with God was a thing to be eagerly grasped or retained, but stripped Himself of all privileges and rightful dignity so as to assume the guise of a servant (slave), in that He became like men and was born a human being.

And after He had appeared in human form, He abased and humbled Himself still further and carried His obedience to the extreme of death, even the death of the cross!

Therefore, because He stooped so low, God has highly exalted Him and has freely bestowed on Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should (must) bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue frankly and openly confess and acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:5-11 Amp – emphases RB)

This famous passage stands well on its own in explaining the divinity of Jesus Christ, but is much better read in its full context, which you can do here.  The Amplified version is quoted because it gives a fuller appreciation of the original. A study of doctor Luke’s carefully researched account of the birth of Jesus (here) and of the early church (Acts of the Apostles), as well as parts of Paul’s letters attest to his acquaintance with Jesus as being through supernatural means. That is, I’m of the opinion Paul was often in direct contact with Jesus after His Ascension and was, thereby, blessed to receive heavenly revelations and Holy Spirit inspiration.

May the above holy scripture enable you dear reader, if you don’t know Jesus, to lead to a personal encounter like Paul and I had with Jesus. Or, if you’re already a believer then may it encourage you to follow Him more closely in 2013.

Back to school / college / uni – part 1

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“Richard, you’re here!” Turning, I find a friend from Bath beside me in the short queue for morning coffee.

“Good to see you Richard” – I grin – “Thought I’d spotted you by the windows”.  So we catch up with one another’s news.

Nina and I hadn’t been to Bath since last year, when Richard had mentioned a meeting in the Midlands. (I’d intuitively known it was important for me to hear its teachings, and it proved so – see Glory stories.) Today, however, we are in  Windsor for Christian International Europe’s Annual Conference. It’s an easy 33 miles drive there to Dr Stone’s monthly meetings, but not  for my namesake and Richard asks, “Where do you live?”  We laugh upon discovering that he knows of the locality and says it’s like the area around Bath. (Our low hills and woods are in the South Downs National Park – take a peek.)  And next, two interesting points follow…

I outline to Richard some of what happened last month and that Nina had been strongly impressed last December that September 2012 would be significant in some way. (This was connected with her seeing an unusually special Christmas picture in a newspaper. The impact was so great it inspired her to ask at ladies’ breakfasts she speaks to, Are You Ready?  Nina starts these talks by saying the Lord had given her the full content in connection with “this picture”, which she displays, and its subtly implicit message – see image He’s On His Way at close of this year’s first post Points to ponder 2011-12.)

“Others have said the same about September”, is Richard’s immediate response! AND as though to confirm both Nina’s impression and Richard’s remark, the guest speaker will briefly speak on that topic in the very next conference session!!

So exactly what is it about September 2012?

First, let’s go to its lead-in: the end of August with its inevitable ‘back to school’ theme.  We’re not normally faced with that, yet our two youngest grandsons were about to start pre- and primary school, and the oldest at his new school in early September.  But that wasn’t why this theme had my attention. It had been on my mind all month!  Why? An ancient ember deep within me had been fanned by a commentary by the leader of Bath City Church, Stewart Keiller. He writes about the fourth chapter of St Paul’s letter to the Ephesian church and his post is entitled:

School of Jesus

I hope you, dear reader, believer or no, will click on that title to consider carefully, even digest, Stewart’s pithy style of excellent teaching. He writes about ‘the old man’, ie. the lifestyle we had before being ‘born anew’ (my term) to become a new man/woman, and then ‘let’s go to school,’ wherein he describes what ‘the School of Christ’ is like, viz:

You learned him (Greek) ‘emathete’, how do we learn a person?  The first lesson in this school is its about a relationship, you get to know Jesus by being with him and spending time with Him in your day to day life (John17:3). <my emphases>

You heard him ‘ekousate’, you hear through the Spirit and Word.  The Spirit is at work in you to speak to you life, you need to tune into him.  This is not some theory class, this is a learning to tune into the very speaking spirit within.  But we get tutored in the word of God, the word on paper becomes the word in Spirit, this is not just subjective feeling it is supernatural reality at work.

You are taught by him ‘edidachthete’, actually the word is “in him”, Jesus is the atmosphere in which we are taught.  This is part of the theme ‘in Christ Jesus’, the immersion into Jesus.  Its why baptism is such a great description of the reality of our faith, we are immersed into the life of Jesus.

When Jesus Christ is at once the subject, the object, and the environment of the moral instruction being given, we may have confidence that it is truly Christian. For truth is in Jesus. (John Stott)

“So what is our response to school?” asks that writer, before covering what it produces.

“What is your response?” I ask you, my reader.

May I suggest you run off a hardcopy of that 4-page piece, weigh its words and chew its scriptural content? Then, next week we may be able to appreciate my response and an account of what happened this September and, keen as I was, why this had to wait until after last weekend – as well as to read about the 2nd point in 2 Richards’ chat 🙂

…continued in part 2

Some insights into God’s action plan

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Soon after my birthday trip to Trafalgar Square with Healing On The Streets, as here, I was blessed with a greater under-standing of God’s action plan: getting the full Gospel message in all its power into the public space. So I want to encourage fellow believers as well as stir those who are not yet Christians to discover more about our faith.

Insight 1

Knowing about God’s action plan gives impetus to our realisation of the spiritual contest going on within society to manipulate people’s thoughts and beliefs away from God.

This has been observed not only in the HOTS v ASA saga but also other spheres of UK government action. Thinking they’d curtail prayers in public for physical healing, the ASA banned HOTS leaflets but this blew up in their faces when the public’s attention and that of Parliament turned towards the issue (as here and here). Also, a substantial flaw was found in the ASA ruling.  So, we can perceive the Lord’s hand in these events.  However, the issue with the Equalities & Human Rights Commission about keeping religious beliefs well behind church doors, as summed up here by Gillan Scott, still bubbles away.

That struggle is also why Christians are in the European Court, Strasbourg, standing  against governmental rulings (see here, here and here). We can understand that the spiritual enemy does not want anything Jesus did in public to be done in public today. Thus, he will attempt in every possible way to thwart God’s plans for returning Christian beliefs and activity to the public sphere.

On this issue political blogger Cranmer has rounded upon confused comments coming from Baroness Warsi, minister of State for Faith and Communities and Senior Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, that the British Government is proud to do ‘God’.  His Grace writes:

It is ironic that this ‘Senior’ Minister of State…should boast that the UK Government ‘does God’ while their lawyers at the European Court of Human Rights have made it clear that the position of HM Government is that Christians should ‘leave their beliefs at home or get another job’.

David Cameron – like Tony Blair before him – appears to mistake freedom of worship for freedom of religion. The Baroness apparently grasps the difference, and yet she is part of that government which is arguing in Strasbourg that there is a ‘difference between the professional and private sphere’.

Whatever the Baroness may spout at the UN, the UK has seen a gradual shift from ‘freedom of religion’ to ‘freedom of worship’. The whole narrative surrounding religious faith has gone from being ‘in the world’ to the physical confines of a church, temple, synagogue or mosque.

Insight 2

Sunday morning’s service at Church of His Presence had a late change in its schedule.  Pastor John had to be away and Jan Painter spoke on what the Lord’s saying about His plans for revival and taking His presence outside church walls. (Jan prophesied a fresh but return of the glory of God after that of the Brownsville revival.)

For well over an hour Jan conveyed her grasp of the Lord’s words and amongst several gems was this one:

“In God’s presence we become aware of Him, but He wants you to be aware that He is aware of you“.

Wow, how this adds another deeper dimension for our ministering healing!  It seems, in my opinion, a lot of what she says about God’s work through The Bay Revival may well apply to HOTS because that team is also part of God’s worldwide action plan to get the full Gospel outside church walls.

Indeed, the Lord’s rebuke that Jan conveyed about believers letting a spiritual weapon  fall into disuse also applies to all on-fire churches. (Ephesians 6:10-18 refers.) This is extremely relevant teaching and as the service closed most of the large congregation, no doubt plus online members, started practising this holy gifting.

Join this exceptional service by playing the above video. There are testimonies from deaf and blind folk being healed before Jan starts speaking at 1hr30min. [Takes few seconds to start but play can be advanced along the loading gray buffer bar.]

Insight 3

How can I convey what followed the previous two within days?  At the first home group we attended of our new church the preacher brought a powerful text for discussion – the third chapter of Paul’s letter to the church in Ephesus.

I received a ‘download’!  It was almost visible!  My New King James Study Bible heads this chapter as The Mystery Revealed, with sub-headings Purpose of the Mystery and Appreciation of the Mystery.  I n t r i g u i n g ! 

As the chapter was read aloud and certain Greek words in verses 16 to 20 discussed, I grasped its direct relevance to all I’ve written above and in the preceding posts about HOTS.

All I can suggest for the earnest Christian is to meditate upon and ‘chew well’ the extra-ordinary depths of this whole chapter and ask for revelation.  This Bible Gateway link to  Ephesians 3 gives the Amplified Bible’s translation, thereby offering a good glimpse into the meaning of Paul’s apostolic teaching.

Just savour these verses then, along with the rest, chew and swallow the whole chapter and then the rest of this short letter:

10 [The purpose is] that through the church the complicated, many-sided wisdom of God in all its infinite variety and innumerable aspects might now be made known to the angelic rulers and authorities (principalities and powers) in the heavenly sphere.

11 This is in accordance with the terms of the eternal and timeless purpose which He has realized and carried into effect in [the person of] Christ Jesus our Lord,

12 In Whom, because of our faith in Him, we dare to have the boldness (courage and confidence) of free access (an unreserved approach to God with freedom and without fear). – – – – –

16 May He grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthened and reinforced with mighty power in the inner man by the [Holy] Spirit [Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality].

17 May Christ through your faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His permanent home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love,

18 That you may have the power and be strong to apprehend and grasp with all the saints [God’s devoted people, the experience of that love] what is the breadth and length and height and depth [of it];

19 [That you may really come] to know [practically, through experience for yourselves] the love of Christ, which far surpasses mere knowledge [without experience]; that you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the fullness of God [may have the richest measure of the divine Presence, and become a body wholly filled and flooded with God Himself]!

AMEN!

Paws-4-thought: And now a PC Gospel?

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A little play on words in this header: a ‘Politically Correct’ Gospel?

Definitely NOT!  No how, no way, no when, no where!  NEVER may the Word of the Living God be so; unless politics itself gets ‘properly correct‘ and follows Godly principles based upon the beginning of wisdom:

‘…and He said to man, “The fear of the Lord – that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding”.’  (Job 28.27-28).

An outline of proper political correctness is in Job 29, where young Job was blessed by the Lord with His own heart for justice, mercy and righteousness. (A modern example of that scripture may be the standards under which Patricia King’s ministry in Maricopa, Arizona, is rescuing both victims and culprit’s of the child sex trade in Cambodia and Thailand, for which the latter’s government has given them freedom of action.)

But what about a ‘Personal Computer’ Gospel?

Is there such a thing? There’s lots of Bible-related software, but how could a desktop computer itself be connected with – or even demonstrate – the good news of Jesus Christ? Consider this intriguing lesson thrust upon me the year before last.:

Last year my pc failed to boot up; not even the dreaded ‘blue screen of death’, just total darkness with cyclic coughs of trying to start. I had to test its ‘motherboard’ and return it under warranty. Having no laptop to fall back upon I dug out bits of 6 years-old kit to re-jig a working pc. Doing that reminded me of an amazing Gospel lesson which had hit me when previously rebuilding the pc, and for which I have to thank our kitten! Why?

Finding she could jump onto this desk, kitty then found the window ledge was a good place to espy the outdoors. Perhaps she was being prophetic?  She would ‘keep watch’ with me as I kept an eye on developments in the Middle East.

Soon, however, I found the speakers on that ledge weren’t producing any sounds! Upon checking the pc’s rear panel, I discovered the audio plug drooping at an angle from its socket. Somehow kitty must have dropped down the gap between ledge and desk, hit the speaker lead near the plug and bent the end of its pin.  Hence, all quiet. So I straightened the pin and the status quo resumed – until she once again pulled down on the lead. This time the pin’s point was completely broken and, when I removed the plug, that same end bit was left stuck at the bottom of the socket!

I had no option but to get under the ‘bonnet’ and found that audio socket couldn’t be fixed or replaced as it’s an integral part of the main circuitry, or motherboard. Also, and more frustrating, upgraded photo software kept crashing when I tried using it!  The task manager’s process monitor showed me the 2005 pc’s single-core processor simply wasn’t up to the job.

The only answer seemed to be to either buy another pc or laptop, or perhaps build one myself! I accepted that challenge  with relish, and research. Technology had rapidly advanced and my plan was to buy the latest components, an anti-static strap and latex-free gloves and follow a novice-friendly, clearly written do-it-yourself manual.

Dah-dahh!  All done…..now switch on….. the moment of truth has arrived!

But all I got was the CD drawer opening and shutting with a flashing light and internal speaker making sounds reminiscent of the loud, intrusive verbiage heard on radio adverts!

OH NO!!  AND the monitor screen was blank!!!  (It should show the basic input output system to prepare for installing the operating system.) Oh Lord, help!

What had I missed? All connections between all bits of new kit had been correctly made – so it seemed.  However, I soon found I’d made a choice contrary to the instructions in the motherboard’s handbook!

Also, looking closely I saw the ‘how to’ manual’s photo of an 8-plug power connector is actually of two 2×4-plugs. Both are black and the two halves look identical – not easy to see.  Upon plugging one of these into the appropriate 4-hole socket on the board I saw the other much too close to the power supply’s fan. So I simply swapped the plugs around. The handbook’s instructions on this had been the only part I’d totally ignored!

So I extracted the connector I’d plugged in and noticed the small square 4-hole socket was divided into four small squares, all separated by dividers in the shape of a cross (see picture of board – right). And there was a slight difference between those two near-identical connectors in that two plugs of one connector had bevelled corners. I realised that by getting that connector’s ‘attitude’, or alignment, in the correct position it would exactly fit the corresp-onding part of the socket. Note this 12 volt socket provides power to the central processing unit, the pc’s heart (thin black cable toward top left below).

Hey presto! As soon as the correct connector was in place the pc powered up without any problem whatsoever. Hooray!

THEN, the Lord dropped this into my mind:

“Only the correct attitude to the Cross produces the full power of My Holy Spirit!”

I was suitably chastened to realise that my poorly informed choice and failure to obey direction was similar to that of those who go their own way in life without reading and following the Best Instruction Before Leaving Earth.

Furthermore, even when familiar with the Holy Bible, unless there’s a correct reverence for and understanding of Jesus’ atoning sacrifice one may not, as a consequence, be fully empowered by the Holy Spirit.

A wonderful Gospel lesson within the heart of a Personal Computer…and all thanks to a pussy cat!

Be encouraged and blessed.

Read another event at Paws 4 thought from ‘under the bonnet’ – (‘hood’, in US English)

Follow-up on healings in the UK

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Recently (here and here), I’ve tried to convey our own great excitement over March’s revival meeting in Hull. At last, I can share it better with you on this 10 minute clip, which also features a short song in the middle Note: no longer available but see this 3 min clip:

These miraculous healings of folk from Hemel Hempstead, Chesterfield and Tiverton strongly enthused a packed auditorium of Americans in Alabama a week ago. Nathan Morris was also excited to announce that BBC local radio had interviewed Michael about his amazing triple miracle and that Lasette’s astounding appearance in her hotel, which I reported in “Now we know God is real”, brought a Muslim to salvation!

[A friend who directs a national healing ministry says Muslims are keen to learn about God’s healing power. It’s a pity for those atheists with whom two fellow bloggers and I have been in debate but who steadfastly refuse to accept such signs of salvation – Lord, bless them with a personal revelation and true contrition.]

Next, Nathan’s fresh preaching entitled Have You Defiled Your Robes? on holiness and repentance, as in John 8.34-36 and Revelation 3:2-6, was truly outstanding.  It was exceptionally rare preaching on the ‘offensive message’ of the Gospel – that is, upon all sin, even in believers!, and the power of Jesus’ blood – “it is the lifeline“. For example:

“I’m tired of this gospel that won’t get in peoples’ faces. Let me tell you the Word of God, the Gospel of Jesus Christ offends – get used to it!  People don’t want to be offended anymore…without the Blood there are no miracles, without preaching the shed Blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, there is no salvation…one of the biggest lies you ever received is ‘once saved always saved’…you can’t live how you want… “

Many believers flocked forward, blocked the aisles in repentance and then received a fresh fire. The whole was preceded by an hour’s ascending worship as the Holy Spirit filled Lydia Stanley’s fingers with fire on the keyboard. (Join the worship here – news of the UK starts at 1hr20 and Nathan starts preaching at 1hr54.)

On his blog, Hull’s New Life Church leader Jarrod Cooper also includes a video clip of a lady and her husband telling what it’s like to be disabled for 6 years and then being healed at the church.

Jarrod also provides additional photos of Lasette and of extra footage with a follow-up of Michael, who declares, “God’s just amazing. He’s given me my life back and I thank God”. Oh, yes indeed that’s such a tremendous blessing.

I trust you will take time to watch these signs of God’s wonderful healing grace.

Not many people know this…

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This post, one of my first blogs in November 2011, later featured on the Home page to inform visitors of the acceleration of prophetic fulfillment, as may be inferred from the links to confirmatory events two years later:

As you may have gathered from my Welcome, I’m into eschatology – the theological study of the destiny and judgement of nations and all people, even angels!  You may know it as ‘The Last Days’ or, more popularly, as ‘End-Times’. The origin of this term is in the ancient Hebrew Torah’s description: Acharit Hayamin, ie. ‘Last of the Years’.

Let me take you for a very brief visit into one of my favourite classes where Dr Chuck Missler is asking his students, ‘Why Eschatology?‘

“It is very practical”, he answers himself and explains:

“Apparently, we’re being plunged into a period of time about which the Holy Bible says more than any other period – including the time when Jesus walked by the Sea of Galilee!

“Now that’s a preposterous statement – and I challenge you to challenge my statement! To do so you need to do two things:

1  Find out what the Bible itself says about this and – this is a bit harder,

2  Find out what’s really going on – but you won’t get that on the ten o’clock news!

“Fortunately, thanks to the internet, the alternative press and to talk-radio you can do some homework and find out what really is going on. The more you do those two things the more you’ll understand why many scholars are extremely excited about the horizon we’re moving into – because it all deals with the return of Christ to rule earth.

“It really is remarkable how controversial this topic is, but there are:

  • over 1800 references in the Old Testament to this event – 17 Old Testament books give prominence to the event.
  • over 300 references in the New Testament – 216 chapters in 23 of its 27 books give prominence to this primary issue: the return of Jesus to rule on earth.

“You may not believe what the Bible says, but what’s utterly astonishing is that so very many claim to believe in Jesus yet have no grasp of the idea Christ is to literally return and rule!”

I respect Chuck for frequently stressing that we shouldn’t take what he says as ‘Gospel’ but always do a ‘Berean check’ per Acts 17:11; that is, to search the scriptures to find out whether or not his ideas line up with them. Also, I admire his public apology for admitting that, having long taught about an anticipated Middle Eastern war from a certain scriptural stance, he’s gained a better understanding from other passages. So Chuck explained why he’d changed his mind.  For more information visit his website at Koinonia House.

What are we to do when mainstream news doesn’t help?  To find out, click here…

Footnote

The following posts are just a few examples among many of subsequent eschatalogical developments:

False theology and false history

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A brief note further to my email on the debate on Replacement Theology.  There is news from two separate sources that the Lord may be drawing this issue to the fore.

The first is found via a comment to the debate. In recent years liberal seminaries have strongly encouraged a new, non-Biblical, Palestinian form of theology through the works of Lutheran pastor Mitri Raheb and Anglican Naim Ateek.

Now, however, Raheb has denounced that error of interpretation (to be polite), as reported in Palestinian Theologian Trashes Palestinian Theology.

Also, the same morning I read Christian Leaders Against Heresy, which is a clarion call against this error because of claims that Jesus was a Palestinian have appeared in The Jerusalem Post. Its author draw attentions to the fact some well-respected and highly influential leaders within the Church are leading many astray.

May the Lord continually garrison our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Catch up with the TV debate

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COPY of pre-blog email (as in ‘About’):

A video is now available on each proponent’s blog of last Wednesday’s 90min debate on Revelation TV, should you wish to watch.

First – or instead – it would be useful to read the text below both site’s video shots; ie. the interesting comments (with corrections!) thread on Calvin Smith’s blog as well as Stephen Sizer’s opening statement on his blog:

Despite each advocate’s reputation going ahead of him, there was a lack of acrimony and although neither gave ground each came to respect their opponent.

Calvin Smith stood staunchly against the wider view that Christian Zionism is a heresy. He could have mentioned this valid Biblical understanding blossomed during the Commonwealth Period under Cromwell. The Puritans laid great emphasis upon inter-preting and understanding the Holy Bible correctly. Hence, their realisation that the Jewish people ought to return to their ancient homeland – the eventual outcome of which was The Balfour Declaration of 1917 by the british Government.

Stephen Sizer has a concern for the well-being of fellow believers within the Jewish and Arab communities and wants to draw them towards one another – other ministries are already doing so. It seems his view may be fuelled by unreasonable and dangerous attitudes prevalent within US military based upon an extreme support for Israel, right or wrong. Like us, both contestants recognised that the modern state of Israel is far from perfect and we shouldn’t be blindly supporting it.

More:

In this connection, I’m forwarding Doug Chaplin’s succinct reflections upon Judaism’s painful relationship with the church – hat-tip to Stuart for your recommendation. This reminds me of, and thus I rejoice over, the ‘one-new man’ relationship demonstrated magnificently between Rev John Kilpatrick and Rabbi Curt Landry in Alabama. (You may recall my referring to them last May regarding intercession for Israel v. proposed 3rd intifada.) Boy are those two men of God a powerhouse when together!

Also, it reminds me of the blessed time last year when Nina and I were privileged to attend and be instructed in the celebration of Rosh Hashanah. What a download I received about Almighty Father’s personal connection to His Holy Word, and Nina was unquestionably impacted by His Holy Spirit during that event – we were speechless!!

May you too, dear friend, sense His presence

Reminder of TV debate

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Further to Monday’s email, please read this morning’s post on EChurch blog for details:

As its webmaster is acquainted with both debaters, his comments and linked material are very useful background information.

As you know how the Lord prompts one, I was greatly encouraged by these responses from fellow readers:

John P informed me of his just-launched blog What On Earth Will Happen Next? which I recommend you to visit too.

Upon receipt of my mail, Neil Mc had just finished the second part of his comments upon Replacement Theology for the End-Times course at WinVin and he replied: “God is certainly bringing this subject to the fore! I strongly believe that time is short and, as you say, the ground is being prepared.”  His comments upon RT open with wise words:

Some caution and tentativeness is advisable as there are varying opinions and interpretations: we do well to remember, in humility, that God has set limits to our knowledge and understanding. Claiming absolute certainty in any explanation of puzzling aspects of scripture, or of unfulfilled biblical prophecy, is risky! Suffice it to say, we should keep an open mind, read scripture with integrity and in context and, wherever possible, adopt a literal interpretation in preference to dynamic equivalence….

Also, a couple of weeks ago I took Nina to a packed Woman To Woman conference in East London. (Public transport was non-existent in view of work-in-hand for Olympics!) Afterwards, Nina excitedly told me most of what happened as 3000 ‘spell-bound’ ladies listened to Billy Graham’s daughter, Anne Graham-Lotz.

She spoke in depth explaining why the End-Times are upon us. To paraphrase in summary;

“I know a lot of you are scoffing, but I don’t care – it’s all there in the Bible and that’s good enough for me. Just watch what’s happening and check it out in your Bible”.

Scales fell off their eyes.

SO MUCH of what Anne said was anointed by the Holy Spirit that Nina kept being fired up by Him as though getting mild electric shocks! Most of her message was given in her oft-repeated ‘WAKE UP!’ call which is usually available on line during conferences such as May’s Epicentre Conference jointly hosted with Joel Rosenberg (see video overview)

Keep looking up

Nov 2011 TV Debate – Has the Church replaced Israel?

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Friends – If you have satellite TV you may want to watch this debate on Revelation TV (sky 581, Freesat 692) on WED 9.11.11 at 9pm gmt.

For the motion will be Anglican vicar Dr Stephen Sizer arguing that Christian Zionism has no Biblical foundation or historical precedent, even playing a dangerous role in politics of M-East. (He’s gained a questionable stance in being vociferously pro-Palestinian claims and anti-Israel.)

Against the motion will be Dr Calvin Smith, Principal of King’s Evangelical Divinity School. His stance may be gained from Stuart James’ Church posting on Friday, Messianic Alarm

That very day I came across two other items directly related to this topic:

1. A posting on politically forthright blog Harry’s Place referred to Nick Clegg standing against an Islamist student body, FOSIS. This well researched post indicates doubts over Sizer’s integrity.

2 That evening came Bill Koenig’s weekly report from the White House, and which included his resounding denunciation of An Open Letter to America’s Christian Zionists published by Just Peace-making Initiative. After reprinting portions of the letter he concludes:

Koenig’s perspective: These men are totally clueless and dangerous. They say there has been theft of Palestinian land? Open the Bible, guys. And study your history — what so-called sovereign “Palestinian land” was ever stolen? Human rights? What about Christian rights in country after country in the Middle East? What about the wars of self-defence forced on Israel over the years? What about Israel’s right to live in the Holy Land with peace and security?

This position is becoming more and more prevalent in liberal Christian seminaries and within the leadership of the replacement theology church organizations.It is ominous and must be confronted boldly.

Rather than accept those intense remarks at face value I carefully checked the full content of that letter as an exercise in being open-minded. Its authors make an apparently honest rationale in their approach to fellow Christians: but in quoting scripture (especially Genesis) they twist its meaning completely to their biased viewpoint – not only was the letter riddled with error but it also reminded me of how Satan did the same when tempting Jesus! So are these replacement theoreticians simply Satan’s sad stooges??

Could the increasing frequency of this issue indicate the Lord is testing who’s really worthy of being his bride and thus clearing out his house?

The times are rapidly changing, are they not?

The Lord bless you and keep you

A media turnaround: part 2

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COPY of pre-blog email (as in ‘About’):

Bay of The Holy Spirit Revival

The miraculous healing in Mobile I informed everyone about in early November has now appeared in one of our tabloids Daily Mail, as well as being a hit on YouTube.

It’s especially encouraging to hear Nathan Morris preaching on the blood of Jesus and cross of Calvary. And signs and wonders follow. He’s very fired up with the Holy Spirit’s anointing. His in-depth discussion with Delia Knox about her healing after 22 years paralysis was particularly poignant, and reminded us of Nina’s healing from permanent disability.

Also memorable from the dozens of testimonies were those where terminal cancers were radically corrected – the deaf nun who regained hearing and now ministering in the Spirit – the lady with congenital heart defect who amazed doctors by gaining a third, missing aortal valve! – written medical statement that a woman’s surgically segmented bladder should not be functioning normally! – etc, etc.  Choose from the video archives to see people being healed and heal their testimonies.

A Theological Concern

Sadly, some brethren claim the revival is a deception and miracles are false because Jesus Christ warned against false teachers and that we should guard ourselves against deception.  Paul explained that satan masquerades as a angel of light and can perform miracles (2 Corinthians 11.13-15).

Yes, quite so and we should perform a ‘Berean check’ to ensure actual events align with and are scripturally sound.  BUT let’s be sure to look at whole scripture and not single out odd verses! Check out Matthew 24.24, 2 Thessalonians 2.3 and other New testament letters undoubtedly cover the same theme and events, but read their whole context – the events as described have not quite arrived yet!

Furthermore, Paul clearly teaches that all the counterfeits are accepted by those who are perishing ‘because they refused to love the truth and so be saved’ (2Thess 2.10). Then he writes, ’the Lord is faithful and will strengthen and protect you from the evil one’ (2Thess 3.3).

Also, one needs be careful not to serve the accuser of the brethren in condemning what is of God as being of satan, thereby blaspheming the Holy Spirit – the unforgiveable sin!

Under an intense burden Nathan Morris gave a direct word from the Lord about what is coming upon the world and urging his people to turn their gaze upon Him and thus not be deceived. This Englishman preaches salvation and forgiveness of sin through the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, whom he deeply loves, as does the congregation. According to scriptural definition, therefore, what has been happening in Alabama is not from the evil one – he hates the Blood and the Glorious Presence!!  And how can satan ever preach Christ crucified??

So, let’s keep our eyes upon Jesus…

Not many people know – 2

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COPY of pre-blog email (as in ‘About’) – to read it better click upon and enlarge image. The main points covered therein are.:

> EU Recommendation 666 (Herb Peters’ book) and explanation of Revelation 13:18

> UN Human Rights Council’s agenda to introduce Shria law globally

> final para refers to the Herb Peters’ full, historical summary at EU ‘Overview’ , which includes a very useful explanation of the 10-nation West European Union relating to the terrifying, 10-horned fourth beast in Daniel chapter 7.

Note: Holly Peters has maintained her father’s site at ‘Fullfilled Prophecy‘, (no longer available) and lawyer-researcher Constance Cumbrey investigated and reported upon the new world order’s ‘Global Governance’ in My Perspective – What Constance Thinks [ Sadly now deceased, but see 2009 posts – 10/12/25].