Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 24 (Eternal Torment? Part 6: The Best Kept Secret in Hell)

By admin On April 13th, 2015

.

Daily Devotional – May 24

.

Eternal Torment?

.

Part 6:

“The Best Kept Secret In Hell”

To read Part 1, click here… “September 8th (Eternal Torment?)”

.

During most of WWII, the general populace of Germany was unaware that millions of Jews were being imprisoned, suffering, sometimes even tortured, and finally ushered into so-called “showers”, in which they were gassed to death.

.

Yes, the cruel Nazi regime somehow kept this all a big secret from the citizens of Germany, until the war was almost over!

.

Because those wicked Nazi officials knew that if the general populace discovered this horrible cruelty, there would be a mass uprising and rebellion against the “Third Reich”.

(The Reader is invited to click on this link for a 150-minute movie, “The Hiding Place”, dramatizing the true story of one family in Germany that provided a hiding place for Jewish citizens being ruthlessly hunted down and murdered by the Nazis during WWII)

.

Adolph Hitler – Wikimedia – Public Domain

Nazi Death Camp – Corpses Wagon Buchenwald 18th – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

LOVED ONES FORGOTTEN?

.

Two hosts on a popular Christian radio show were taking calls from listeners on various questions about the Bible.

.

**And one of the callers asked about this church doctrine, “Eternal Torment”…**

.

“How are we going to be happy in Heaven for all eternity, knowing that our loved ones are being tormented in fire throughout the endless ions of eternity future?”

.

With such peace and quiet confidence, the hosts assured the caller that those redeemed ones will not have any knowledge of all the torment that is occurring throughout eternity.

.

And for a Bible reference, came this following quote… “For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.” Isaiah 65:17

.

**And with these so-called “comforting” words, the caller said, “thank-you” and the next caller asked a different question.**

.

Announcer with microphone – svg – Wikimedia – Public-Domain

.

***THIS WORLD IS FORGOTTEN,* *BUT NOT OUR LOVED ONES!***

.

One problem with this answer is that this above verse must be balanced together with other related Bible passages! Scripture must be compared with all other related scriptures in order to find truth!

.

And so, what the talk show host did not do, was to quote the following verse from Revelation…“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” Revelation 21:4

.

Yes, those former things are “passed away” as this above verse actually says! That’s why Isaiah 65:13 tells us, “the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind”!

.

The fact is, the former things won’t even exist any longer, as Revelation 21:4 reveals!

.

The Christian Martyrs Last Prayer – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

JUST WHAT ARE “THE FORMER THINGS”?

.

**Yes, those former things are “passed away” as Revelation 21:4 reveals!**

.

**And just what, “former things are passed away”, as this above verse speaks of?**

.

Well, for instance, just look at all these instruments of torture in the photo: torture devices once used upon Bible-believing Christians, in hopes of forcing their allegiance to the apostate church of that day.

.

But all such torment will be forever vanquished throughout eternity future!

.

Diverse torture instruments – cropped photo – Wikipedia – GNU Free Documentation License, Version 1.2

.

TWO VERSES TAKEN OUT OF CONTEXT

.

The fact is, this entire false doctrine of so-called, “Eternal Torment” has been largely built upon a misunderstanding of two passages: The Rich Man & Lazarus, and Revelation 14, in which it states, “and the smoke of their torment ascends up for ever and for ever.” (Luke 16:19-31 & Revelation 14:11)

.

**And if these two passages were all we had to go on, then yes, “Eternal Torment” would seem to be the destiny for all the unbelievers, through the history of the world!**

.

Brooklyn Museum – The Bad Rich Man in Hell – James Tissot – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

***MANY VERSES SPEAK OF HELL* *AS “THE GRAVE”***

.

But fortunately, God is faithful, and has given us many other passages which reveal… “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23), and “The soul that sinneth, it shall die.” (Ezekiel 18:4, 8)

.

And beside those two above verses, this passage from Job gives a vastly different portrait of the state of lost souls in the grave… “There (in “Sheol”, “Hell”, or “the grave”) the wicked cease from troubling; and there the weary be at rest. There the prisoners rest together; they hear not the voice of the oppressor.” Job 3:17, 18

.

So why do these theologians, pastors, and Bible teachers ignore or try to wrestle away all the many Bible passages which refute this non-biblical church-doctrine, “Eternal Torment”?

.

Because, today’s churches continue to drink of the poisonous wine of false doctrines held in the hand of Mystery Babylon, the Mother of Harlots (the apostate churches)!

.

Whore – Babylon – Burgkmair – 1523 AD – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

.

HEAVEN JUST LIKE NAZIS!?!

.

Do you see the absurdity of this old church doctrine?

.

Do you see just how much of an impossible idea this is?

.

And just like all those naive citizens of Nazi Germany, that radio talk-show host would have Christians to believe that they will be blissfully flying around Heaven, totally ignorant that their unsaved friends and loved-ones and the entire unsaved human race are supposedly being tortured by Jesus, throughout the endless ions of eternity future!

.

Brooklyn Museum – The Bad Rich Man in Hell – James Tissot – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

GOD UNDERSTANDS SATAN’S POWER

.

So, God realizes just how powerful tradition can be.

.

And as one former Nazi, Joseph Goebbels used to say, “A lie repeated often enough becomes the truth.”

.

And so, God fully understands how these ideas are being pounded into the heads of listeners to religious radio and TV day-in and day-out!

.

Joseph Goebbels – cropped photo – Wikipedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Germany license.

.

“THE MULTITUDE OF HIS MERCIES”

.

But once we discover that Jesus is not some cruel Hitleresque dictator, not having one drop of mercy for the lost ones, we can then begin to grow into mature Christians who intelligently and biblically understand the Lord…

.

Listen to God’s true character… “But though He cause grief, yet will He have compassion according to the multitude of His mercies. For He doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men. To crush under His feet all the prisoners of the earth,” Lamentation 3:32-34.

.

Is this above passage describing a merciless God who has an eternal torture chamber?

.

Of course not!

.

Transfiguration – Bloch – Wikimedia Commons – US Public-Domain

.

TO READ PART 7, CLICK HERE…

JUNE 19 (Eternal Torment? Part 7: The Hypocrisy)

Brooklyn Museum – The Rich Man in Hell – James Tissot – wikimedia – public domain

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to understand the proper way to study my Bible! Let me depend less on what others tell me the Bible says, and more on what the Spirit of God reveals! Help me to study and contemplate the Bible throughout my day…

Girl Praying – – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

LOCATING THESE TWO CONSTELLATIONS

.

This phenomenon begins in late October, in the pre-dawn hours. It then begins a little earlier each night.

.

This Wikipedia star-chart to the left, has this Orion Constellation sketched in. You must locate Orion, when it is mid-sky, between east and west. You’ll be facing southward most likely, unless you are far south. Try to imagine it as a Cross on a steep hill. The 3-star belt of Orion becomes the crest of the hill. The 3 very faint stars that make up Orion’s head become the very top of the Cross.

.

Next, locate the 7 Stars Constellation. This 7 Stars Constellation is seen by facing northward. It stands upright a little later in the night. Eventually, Orion will lay down and no longer be seen as an uplifted Cross! Beginning in November, the 7 Stars (AKA Big Dipper) can be seen as a Cross a little bit later in evening.

.

**When you are comfortable in locating Orion & The 7 Stars Constellations, then show a friend. This can be a great witnessing tool!**

.

ABOVE CHART: The Cross of Orion Constellation star-chart – wikipedia star-chart with orion drawn in by this website – not for commercial use

ABOVE PICTURE – 7 Stars Constellation as the Cross (aka Big Dipper) – winter – signsofheaven.org – not for commercial uses

.

TOMORROW…

” May 25 (pH Imbalanced Churches)”

Universal indicator paper – Wikipedia – Universal Public Domain

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS STUDY #509 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Today’s Devotional, Year 2 – May 23 (The False Prophet, Part 7, Continued: Signs & Wonders)

By admin On April 12th, 2015

.

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 23

.

The False Prophet,

.

Part 7, Continued:

“Signs & Wonders”

To read Part 1 of this series, click here… “JANUARY 26 (The False Prophet, Part 1: Lying Eyes!)”

.

“And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon….And he (The False Prophet) had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.” Revelation 13:11, 15

.

**The above prophecy foretells of the day when Satan, via The False Prophet, would be permitted to create an image to the first beast. And this image would be given power to speak…**

.

Listen… “And he (The False Prophet) had power to give life unto the image of the (1st) beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.” Revelation 13:15

.

**Now this website has devoted much space to the various talking images, such as television, Internet, etc…. But “the image that speaks” is much broader than just television.**

.

**And this day’s devotional will lightly touch on another aspect to the False Prophet and the Image that speaks…**

.

SIGNS & WONDERS

.

Over the past 100 years, a growing phenomenon has occurred in the Christian churches. It is the phenomenon called, “Signs & Wonders”.

.

At first it began in just a few churches, but now after more than 100 years, it has spread like wildfire throughout almost the entire Christian world.

.

Now the most prominent are the various signs & wonders known as “speaking in tongues”, “Slain in the Spirit” (falling backwards), plus voices, visions, dreams, and even “Drunk in the Spirit”, and its side-kick sign, “Laughing in the Spirit”.

.

Falling Backwards – cropped and altered image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Share-alike License

.

TWO PASSAGES TO CONSIDER

.

Now there are two passages which warn us that Satan will have power to perform signs and wonders…

.

Listen to the first… “there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if [it were] possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” Matthew 24:24

.

This above verse warns us not to merely accept signs and wonders. But rather, Satan will raise up those who will counterfeit the truth so closely, that his deceptions will even attempt to deceive the Elect.

.

The second passage is similar to the first… “And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,” 2nd Thessalonians 2:8, 9

.

This only further confirms that Satan’s deceptions will quite often be extremely close to the true.

.

Evangelist Preaching – Church – Audience hands – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

DOUBLE-MINDED

.

Now, just how are we to know whether or not these signs are from God or from the Devil?

.

Well, there are a number of ways to discern the true source of the current signs & wonders. But for the sake of brevity, the following verse will be offered as a test of truth…

.

Listen… “For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” James 1:7, 8

.

So here it says that those who are double-minded, should not think that they shall receive anything from God.

.

PROSPERITY-DRIVEN GOSPEL

.

And so, can we look at the current Christian world which thrives on signs & wonders? Is today’s Christian culture conducive to receiving such an honorable “seal of approval” from God in the form of signs & wonders? Or are we a “double-minded” people in today’s Christianity?

.

Well, it doesn’t take more than a brief examination to see that those who are involved in signs & wonders could not possibly be receiving signs & wonders from God!

.

No, the current condition in today’s church-world is the very icon of doublemindedness! Almost the entire church-world has embraced the prosperity-driven gospel. And not just those crazy “get-rich”, “Name-it-and-Claim-it” gospels!

.

No, even the so-called “conservative” division within the churches are embracing the prosperity-driven gospel, howbeit a more conservation version: “The Entrepreneurial spirit”, it is commonly referred to…

.

Mall Market culture – Jakarta – Wikimedia – share-alike-lic.

.

SAME SIN AS SODOM

.

Yes, the entire church-world has embraced, to one degree or another, the pursuit of almost the same high-paying careers and trades, and all the same materialism which the secular world pursues after! And isn’t it true that many church-goers encourage their children to pursue high-paying trades and careers, which promise a life of opulence: howbeit, the very same opulence which led to the decadence of Sodom and Gomorrah, and to their ultimate destruction?

.

Listen… “Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom: pride, fulness of bread…” Ezekiel 16:49

.

The very first two sins which God charged against His people, comparing them to Sodom, could very well be charged against the churches in this hedonistic and opulent society.

.

Picture – Lot Escapes Sodom – www.thebiblerevival.com offers free Bible clipart – Public Domain.

.

CONTENT WITH FOOD & COVERING

.

Listen to Paul’s exhortation to not be seeking after wealth… “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.” 1st Timothy 6:7-9

.

Why have today’s Christians ignored this passage to a great extent? Do we think that God isn’t watching? Or do we think that God is somehow not serious about this passage?

.

Paul Tentmaking – La Vista Church of Christ – Creative Commons License

.

AN OPULENT & HEDONISTIC SOCIETY

.

When Christians attempt to have a vital connection to Jesus, while at the same time pursuing the materialism, and proud pursuits, and time-consuming amusements and pleasures of this hedonistic society, is this not the very essence of being “double-minded”?

.

And so, today’s churches have fallen into the snare of the Devil. And because this has been an on-going apostasy for many decades, the churches have been spewed out of Christ’s mouth…

.

People on Times Square – cropped image – Wikimedia Commons – Share-Alike License

.

WE ARE DOUBLE-MINDED

.

Listen to what Jesus thinks about a prosperity-minded church… “So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of My mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:” Revelation 3:16, 17

.

This above passage has been written especially for the current-day churches in this decadent, cornucopian society we currently live in. The churches today, broadly speaking, have become very double-minded, by the wholehearted pursuit after the opulence, the proud career-seeking, the amusements and pleasures, and materialism, instead of merely “using but not abusing) the things of the world”. 1st Corinthians 7:31

.

(This Judgment-Day cartoon is what the Bible promises will be the fate of many church-goers. And both you and myself need to make sure this is not our fate!)

.

“YE…THE TEMPLE OF GOD!”

.

And so, it only requires thinking this tragic situation through to its logical conclusion: if Satan is now freely performing his signs and wonders in today’s church-world, and we can clearly see that it could not possibly be coming from the Holy Spirit, then it is clear evidence that the abomination of desolation (Satan) has moved into the “temple of the Lord”, the people of the Lord…

.

Listen to what the temple of the lord is… “…FOR YE ARE THE TEMPLE OF THE LIVING GOD; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” 2nd Corinthians 6:16

.

SIGNS & WONDERS ARE A SIGN TO US!

.

And so, by merely adding 2+2, we come to the inevitable conclusion: one great evidence that today’s churches have been spewed out of the Lord’s mouth is the current phenomenon of signs & wonders.

.

Listen once again… “For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” James 1:7, 8

.

**Yes, this is how we can be sure that the “abomination of desolation” is just now “standing in the Holy Place”. And since we are the temple of God, then we are the Holy Place!**

.

(Again, this Judgment-Day cartoon is what the Bible promises will be the fate of many church-goers. And both you and myself need to make sure this is not our fate!)

.

“FLEE TO THE MOUNTAINS”

.

Listen to God’s advice to Christians… “When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:” Matthew 24:15, 16

.

Now there are many who will tell you that this cannot happen, because we’re going to be raptured before all this happens. NOT TRUE!

.

ABOVE PICTURE – winter Constellations – Woman of Revelation 12 (Ursa Major) flees to the mountains – Mark 13:14 – Dragon comprised of Hyades, Pleiades, etc…Valley of Decision mountain comprised of Cassiopeia, etc… (This is not a star-chart, but merely a concept picture since this mountain is not in this position, but is actually in the fall months)

.

“COME OUT OF HER MY PEOPLE”

.

Now there happens to be something good found in the midst of all this great tragedy. Yes, there is some Good News! And that is this: those of us who are just now waking up to our undone condition, still have time to “come out of her (spiritual Babylon), My people”. Revelation 18:4

.

Oh yes, it is very sad to leave our friends and loved ones behind. Nevertheless, by making a thorough repentance of what we have read in these last three devotionals, we will have begun our exodus out of Babylon, today’s apostate church culture.

.

And who knows if God might open the eyes of our friends and loved ones, that they too might join this end-time exodus!

.

James Tissot – The Flight of the Prisoners – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

To read Part 8, click here…

JULY 22 (The False Prophet, Part 8: The Biggest Lie In The Church!)

Twemoji2 – crossed fingers – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

Dear Lord, Give me an understanding of just what a deceptive world this really is! Help me to be IN the world, but not OF the world…

Prayer – USMC – Wikimedia – US Govt. Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

7 HEADS, 10 HORNS, & 7 CROWNS OF THE DRAGON

.

“And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.” Rev. 12:3

.

In Revelation, the Dragon of Revelation 12 is described as having seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns. However, the Dragon Constellation up in the night sky does not. But God has faithfully created the wave of water, in such a way, as to illustrate this same concept of the seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns. Because this wave of water is basically composed of ten stars. The main body of the wave has seven stars (#‘s, 1 thru 7). And the tip of the crest of the wave has the other three stars (#’s, 8, 9 & 10). So we have this 7 and 10 numbering. And this gives us a great clue, as to where in the Bible we should look, to find out the riddle as to just what or who do these 7 heads, 10 crowns, and 7 horns represent. Because, the Bible speaks very much about floods and waters as being associated with Satan (the Dragon).

.

TOMORROW…

May 24 (Eternal Torment? Part 6: The Best Kept Secret in Hell)

Hell’s Viewing Gallery- Signsofheaven.org – copyrighted – not for public use

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS STUDY #508 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional – MAY 22 (The Beast & False Prophet, Part 7, continued: The 7th Head: False Doctrines)

By admin On April 9th, 2015

.

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 22

.

The Beast & False Prophet,

.

Part 7, Continued:

“The 7th Head: False Doctrines”

To read Part 1 of this series, click here… “JANUARY 26 (The False Prophet, Part 1: Lying Eyes!)”

.

“And I beheld another beast

coming up out of the earth;

and he had two horns like a lamb,

and he spake as a dragon.

And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast…”

Revelation 13:11, 12

.

**In yesterday’s devotional (click here), this 2nd beast was introduced, and how he brought the world under a brand-new deception progressively over the last two centuries.**

.

Yes, this is The False Prophet of Revelation 13. And besides bringing the western nations into opulence and decadence, he also brought many false doctrines into the Church, over the last two centuries.

.

And so, this continuation of yesterday’s devotional (click here to read) will now lightly touch on one of the most damaging and heretical false doctrines which have slowly crept into the Church of God…

.

Times Square – cropped image – New York City – Wikimedia – Creative Commons 2.0

.

2nd BEAST ALSO PART OF 1st BEAST

.

It must be kept in mind that this False Prophet is also comprised of the 6th and 7th heads of the Revelation 13 Antichrist Beast.

.

Thus, the right horn of the False Prophet (the 2nd beast of Revelation 13) aligns itself with the 7th head of the Revelation 13 1st beast.

.

And so, the right horn of the False Prophet, representing “morality/justice” combines with the 7th head of the 1st Beast, representing apostate “Protestantism/Evangelicalism”.

(See such articles as Today’s Devotional – March 23rd (1st Beast of Revelation 13) for a fuller understanding of the two beast-powers of Revelation 23)

.

ABOVE ENGRAVING: Whore – Babylon – Burgkmair – 1523 AD – this old engraving shows that the Church once realized that the Babylon Mother of Harlots was actually the apostate churches – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

ABOVE PICTURE: Satan, The False Prophet who now in these last days destroys the churches via a world-loving prosperity-driven false gospel – www.signsofheaven.org

.

THE DO-IT-YOURSELF GOSPEL

.

But perhaps the greatest of all false doctrines was popularized by such men as Charles Finney in the early 1800’s.

.

Yes, Charles Finney, an extremely intelligent and a gifted orator, began an evangelistic crusade, capitalizing on the do-it-yourself gospel, given the non-biblical name, “The Free-Will Gospel”.

.

This was the idea that, “we first choose Christ”, and not Him first choosing us! This error was first popularized, or at least credited to a Dutch professor named Jacobus Arminius way back in the late 1500’s.

.

Unfortunately, John Wesley, an otherwise very great evangelist (but purportedly a rather poor theologian), somewhat embraced this view of Arminius, and preached this Free-Will gospel, at least for some part of his ministry.

.

Charles G. Finney – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

FINNEY’S CAMP-MEETINGS

.

And Charles Finney, a great evangelist, but also a very poor theologian, latched on to Wesley’s error.

.

And so, Finney began his crusade, implementing a technique of altar calls. And with his fire-n-brimstone preaching followed up by altar calls, was able to bring large numbers trembling to their knees in repentance, at every one of his camp meetings.

.

And so, many-a hopeless drunkard and hardened adulterer, after hearing Finney’s fiery rhetoric, were brought to tears and emotional “conversions”, at Finney’s altar calls.

.

Charles G. Finney – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

“BLACKENED EARTH”

.

**But the problem was, with such a “I-did-it-myself!”, man-centered “Free-Will” gospel, those countless do-it-yourself converts soon fell back into the world, becoming God-hating blasphemers.**

.

As a matter of fact, it is recorded that a certain man followed in the wake of Finney’s crusades for the purpose of observing the results of Finney’s preaching.

.

And in many of the communities where Finney had previously held his camp meetings, there was now a shroud of spiritual darkness which enveloped those places. And so, the term, “blackened Earth” was coined to describe the spiritual darkness which now lay upon those places, as a result of Finney’s crusades. And for years following, those communities could not be preached in, because of that shroud of spiritual darkness which remained in Finney’s wake!

.

Fortunately, Charles Finney (it has been reported) made a death-bed repentance in the form of a letter, recanting his unbiblical techniques and doctrines.

.

Camp Meeting – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

FINNEY’S LEGACY

.

Unfortunately, while Finney’s public repentance was nice for him, he nevertheless left a legacy for others who would follow in his footsteps.

.

And so, the Christian community was flooded with all sorts of false doctrines and non-biblical programs, which thrived in that unholy medium created by the “Free-Will” gospel.

.

Public Speaker – Church – Audience hands – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

MANY ANTICHRISTS

.

“Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that Antichrist shall come, even now are there many Antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.” 1st John 2:18

.

Because if a person was able to choose God, then Salvation comes by doing such good works as, “being baptized”, or saying, “The Sinner’s Prayer”, or responding to an “altar call”, or being “slain in the spirit”.

.

But none of these good works can ever save a soul. But rather, they will mostly bring unconverted masses into the Church, filling the Church with many Antichrists. And what we have ended up with in these last days, are churches full of unconverted multitudes, who come to church to have their ears tickled by well-timed jokes, sensual music, dramas and other forms of entertainment, along with charismatic and gifted orators who present a soft and compromised and non-threatening sermon.

.

Falling Backwards – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Share-alike License

.

TODAY’S APOSTASY

.

And so, it is no wonder that today’s church-world is in such a mess! The Free-Will gospel, the prosperity-driven gospel, “Eternal Torment for all rejecters of Jesus”, and all the other many false doctrines have made a shambles of the churches, in spite of the devilishly deceptive appearance that God is still working within them!

.

It is as the Apostle, Paul, foretold… “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2nd Timothy 4:3, 4

.

Yes, we have arrived at a day when the church-world, for the most part, is in a very sad and apostate condition!

.

Public Speaker – Church – Audience hands – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

GOD A MONSTER?

.

One of the most common arguments used against the truth (that God predestines His people to salvation) is usually uttered in this way…“Well, if God predestines people to go to Hell, this would make God a monster!”

.

Well, can anyone find a passage anywhere in Scripture which specifically states that God predestines the unsaved multitudes to Hell? No, they cannot!

.

But beyond that, the proponents of the so-called, “Free-Will Gospel”, are usually also proponents of the false doctrine commonly known as “Eternal Torment”. And so, this idea that God eternally tortures every lost soul throughout eternity only strengthens their assumption that God would be a monster if He predestined most people to Hell. And let’s face it! This false doctrine called “Eternal Torment” is truly a monstrous church-doctrine which came from improper Bible interpretation, using only certain verses while ignoring other verses which speak of Hell as “the grave”.

(For an expose on this false doctrine, see the series of articles called, “Eternal Torment?”.)

.

Brooklyn Museum – The Rich Man In Hell – James Tissot – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

GOOD NEWS!

.

Well, as troubling as all this information is, there still exists some very Good News!

.

Yes, the doors of mercy are still open, at the time of the writing of this devotional. Salvation is still possible! And though we understand that it is God who saves the soul of an individual, yet God commands us to cry out to Him for this wonderful gift!

.

Listen… “Seek ye the LORD while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near:” Isaiah 55:6 Oh yes, we are commanded by God to seek for and to call upon the Lord. But it is actually God who works in us to cause this to happen! (See Philippians 1:6)

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – public domain

.

TO READ MORE, CONTINUE HERE

MAY 23 (The Beast & False Prophet, Part 7, continued: The 7th Head: Signs & Wonders)

ABOVE ENGRAVING: Whore – Babylon – Burgkmair – 1523 AD – this old engraving shows that the Church once realized that the Babylon Mother of Harlots was actually the apostate churches – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

Dear Lord, Give me an understanding of just what a deceptive world this really is! Help me to be IN the world, but not OF the world…

Woman Praying – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

7 HEADS, 10 HORNS, & 7 CROWNS OF THE DRAGON

.

“And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.” Rev. 12:3

.

In Revelation, the Dragon of Revelation 12 is described as having seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns. However, the Dragon Constellation up in the night sky does not. But God has faithfully created the wave of water, in such a way, as to illustrate this same concept of the seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns. Because this wave of water is basically composed of ten stars. The main body of the wave has seven stars (#‘s, 1 thru 7). And the tip of the crest of the wave has the other three stars (#’s, 8, 9 & 10). So we have this 7 and 10 numbering. And this gives us a great clue, as to where in the Bible we should look, to find out the riddle as to just what or who do these 7 heads, 10 crowns, and 7 horns represent. Because, the Bible speaks very much about floods and waters as being associated with Satan (the Dragon).

.

TOMORROW…

May 23 (The False Prophet, Part 7, Continued: The 7th Head: Signs & Wonders)

ABOVE PICTURE: Satan, The False Prophet who now in these last days destroys the churches via a world-loving prosperity-driven false gospel – www.signsofheaven.org

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS STUDY #507 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – MAY 21 (The Beast & False Prophet, Part 6: The 7th Head)

By admin On April 9th, 2015

.

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 21

.

The Beast & False Prophet,

.

Part 6:

“The 7th Head”

To read Part 1 of this series, click here… “JANUARY 26 (The False Prophet, Part 1: Lying Eyes!)”

.

“I will tell thee the mystery of the woman,

and of the beast that carrieth her,

which hath the seven heads and ten horns…

And here is the mind which hath wisdom.

The seven heads are seven mountains,

on which the woman sitteth.

And there are seven kings:

five are fallen, and one is,

and the other is not yet come…”

Revelation 17:7, 9, 10

Whore – Babylon – Burgkmair – 1523 AD – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

.

SATAN’S KINGDOM

.

When Satan deceived Mankind, God allowed him to become the ruler of this lost and rebellious world.

.

**2nd Corinthians 4:4 calls him, “the god of this world”!**

.

Three times in the Gospel of John, Satan is referred to as, “The prince of this world”. (John 12:31, 14:30, 16:11)

.

Ephesians 2:2 refers to Satan as “The Prince of the Power of the Air”.

.

**But in these last days, Satan is coming as “the False Prophet”, spoken of in Revelation 13.**

.

And in his role as the False Prophet in the past few centuries, he has put a “happy face” on much of this wicked world, thus deceiving many of the naive and blinded multitudes into thinking that this ‘theme-park-like’ world is a pretty nice place, for the most part…and a lot of fun!

.

Satan presiding at the Infernal Council – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

ABOVE PICTURE: Satan, The False Prophet who now in these last days destroys the churches via a world-loving prosperity-driven false gospel – www.signsofheaven.org

Fantasy Kingdom Theme Park – Bangladesh – Creative Commons CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication.

.

6TH & 7TH HEAD RISE UP

.

Now, these daily devotionals place a great amount of emphasis on the 6th head of Antichrist which has to do with atheism and humanism, with all their various side-kick ideologies: Evolution, Socialism, Psychiatry, Psychology, Humanitarianism, and other aspects and devices and institutions which are used to indoctrinate people into these ideologies of Satan’s kingdom.

.

**And when the 5th head (the apostate churches of Europe for 1260 years) received its deadly wound by God’s sword, the Bible, then appeared the 6th head (atheism, etc….).**

.

Yes, just when that Romish apostate church (the 5th head) was stabbed by “the sword” (God’s Word, the “sword of the Spirit” Ephesians 6:17), then appeared Humanism (the 6th head) and its companion ideologies.

.

But maybe the 7th head of the Antichrist Beast should now be discussed. Yes, this Antichrist Beast has 7 heads.

.

Charles Darwin – by John Collier (artist) – www.wikimedia.com – Public Domain

Sigmund Freud LIFE wikipedia US public domain

Mark Twain – 1909 – Wikipedia – Public Domain

John Dewey in 1902 – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

***APOSTATE PROTESTANTISM:* *THE 7TH HEAD***

.

And along with the 6th head, the 7th head also began to rise up out of the earth at that same time period.

.

And just what was the 7th head of this Antichrist Beast?

.

Apostate Protestantism! Idolatrous and adulterous Protestantism.

.

Yes, when persecution by the European churches ceased, Protestantism began to grow sleepy-eyed and lethargic, and progressively apostate.

.

Evangelist Preaching – Church – Audience hands – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

2ND BEAST EMERGES FROM 1ST

.

Now here is a somewhat difficult concept.

.

As we know, there were two beasts of Revelation, Chapter 13. The first beast being the Romish church, the 5th head of the Antichrist Beast which rose up out of the sea (the sea of nations).

.

But there was a second beast, the False Prophet, which rose up from the earth. This second beast had two horns like a lamb, yet spoke as a dragon.

.

But here’s the difficult part: You see, those two horns of this False Prophet are comprised of the 6th and 7th head of the first beast. And so, the 2nd beast is really an integral part of the 1st beast.

.

Think of it as a deviant virus which splits away from its “mother virus”.

.

And as already mentioned, the 1st beast rose up from the sea (the sea of nations). But since this 2nd beast, the False Prophet, rose up out of the earth (symbolizing the industrial age and the earthy sins of the flesh), its behavior was very much different than the behavior of the 1st beast.

.

Papessa tiara Harlot rides Beast – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

SATAN’S NEW MODUS-OPERANDI

.

Yes, this 2nd beast, the False Prophet, rose up out of the earth. And its behavior was very much different than the behavior of the 1st beast.

.

You see, the first beast brought war and famine and scarcity, and oppression upon Europe. And many who loved the Bible were tortured, banished, imprisoned and murdered. And Satan attempted to wipe out the Bible during these centuries.

.

But this 2nd beast exploited the riches from the earth to create a cornucopian/decadent super-society.

.

And instead of scarcity, this 2nd beast brought opulence, excess, materialism, hedonism, conservatism, and false miracles!

.

Like over-feeding mice until they explode! No longer did he need to torture, banish, imprison, and kill. Opulence is a much more effective weapon to destroy God’s people!

.

Bibles were now everywhere, but most Christians were too busy in the world to seriously study them each day!

.

Now the 6th head, Humanism (or Secularism), began in Europe, but greatly rose to power in the USA.

.

But also, the 7th head, apostate Protestantism, also rose to power in the USA (Of course, these two heads of Antichrist, Humanism & Apostate Protestantism, eventually spread their tentacles in every direction around the globe.)

.

Now if the reader wants to more deeply explore all this, there are a number of articles on this website specifically devoted to this subject.

.

Burning at the Stake – Wikipedia – Public Domain

Book Burning – Santo Domingo y Los Albigenses – Wikipedia – Public Domain

Time – New York City Night-lights – cropped photo – Wikimedia – Creative Commons 2.0 Generic License

Mall Market culture – Jakarta – Wikimedia – share-alike-lic.

.

THE CHURCH APOSTATE

.

But today, only the 7th head of Antichrist will be looked at.

.

And just why are the evangelical churches considered to be the 7th head of Antichrist?

.

Well, all of a sudden, persecution stopped, and the world was now beginning to embrace the Church of God. And that was the crux of the problem!

.

Yes, whenever the world is our friend, you know that something’s wrong! Listen to the Wise Man… “the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” Proverbs 27:6

.

And so, instead of coming at us with swords and spears, the world now began to come at Christians with spatulas and meat forks to invite them over for a barbecue!

.

THIS TOPIC CONTINUES IN TOMORROW’S DEVOTIONAL…

“MAY 22 (The Beast & False Prophet, Part 7, continued: The 7th Head: False Doctrines)“

ABOVE ENGRAVING: Whore – Babylon – Burgkmair – 1523 AD – this old engraving shows that the Church once realized that the Babylon Mother of Harlots was actually the apostate churches – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

Dear Lord, Give me an understanding of just what a deceptive world this really is! Give me the desire to study the Bible, to explore these ideas…

The Christian Martyrs Last Prayer – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

7 HEADS, 10 HORNS, & 7 CROWNS OF THE DRAGON

.

“And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.” Rev. 12:3

.

In Revelation, the Dragon of Revelation 12 is described as having seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns. However, the Dragon Constellation up in the night sky does not. But God has faithfully created the wave of water, in such a way, as to illustrate this same concept of the seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns. Because this wave of water is basically composed of ten stars. The main body of the wave has seven stars (#‘s, 1 thru 7). And the tip of the crest of the wave has the other three stars (#’s, 8, 9 & 10). So we have this 7 and 10 numbering. And this gives us a great clue, as to where in the Bible we should look, to find out the riddle as to just what or who do these 7 heads, 10 crowns, and 7 horns represent. Because, the Bible speaks very much about floods and waters as being associated with Satan (the Dragon).

.

TOMORROW…

“MAY 22 (The Beast & False Prophet, Part 7, continued: The 7th Head: False Doctrines)”

ABOVE ENGRAVING: Whore – Babylon – Burgkmair – 1523 AD – this old engraving shows that the Church once realized that the Babylon Mother of Harlots was actually the apostate churches – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS STUDY #506 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 20 (Sherlock Holmes Sanctification)

By admin On April 8th, 2015

.

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 20

.

Sherlock Holmes Sanctification

.

As the Christian goes through life, it is almost impossible to not hear trivial facts
concerning various aspects of life.

.

The challenge for the Christian is to translate those worldly facts into spiritual lessons.

.

One interesting fact concerns the fictional character, Sherlock Holmes.

.

Yes, that genius detective devoted his every thought and energy to the improvement of his abilities as a master sleuth.

.

Listen to Wikipedia… “In A Study in Scarlet…The detective believes that the mind has a finite capacity for information storage, and learning useless things reduces one’s ability to learn useful things.”

.

Sherlock Holmes – by Paget – Wikipedia – US Public Domain.

.

WISDOM OF THE WORLD

.

Now this website does not encourage reading Sherlock Holmes books (or any other secular books).

.

And, the fictional character, Sherlock Holmes, was given many wrong traits and habits.

.

But as Jesus said… “the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.” Luke 16:8

.

Yes, the world has its own wisdom.

.

And so, the things that the secular world does, can quite often be translated into the spiritual realm.

.

Times Square – New York City – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons 2.0

.

FILLING MY MIND WITH…?

.

Now there are many different aspects to our consecration.

.

But today’s devotional is only concerned about one aspect: what we allow our minds to dwell on.

.

And just as Holmes only allowed pertinent information to enter his mind, so too, the Christian needs to take a similar approach!

.

The Bible says… “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” 1st Corinthians 15:33

.

As this above verse warns, there will be an attempt to deceive Christians into thinking that we can voluntarily behold ungodly sights and sounds, and not suffer the consequences.

.

But just the opposite is true!

.

ABOVE PICTURE: television & the image of Satan – www.signsofheaven.org

.

CREATING A HEAVEN-ON-EARTH

.

Now, this website highly recommends a complete and full immersion into our daily baptism in “the washing of Water by the Word!” Ephesians 5:20

.

And just how are we to do that?

.

Well, for one thing, we can eliminate all unnecessary worldly “hubbub”.

.

And then, we then can instead, fill our mind with thoughts of grace by contemplating God’s Word, listening to choral music, or the soft strains of music like David played, as he chanted Psalms.

.

Or singing Scripture songs is another wonderful way to praise the Lord. Even listening to nature sounds at times can be uplifting.

.

Downloading chapters of an audio Bible can be a great way to keep one’s mind focused on God’s Word.

.

And to “pray without ceasing” is another vital aspect of the Christian life (see 1st Thessalonians 5:17).

.

**And to translate what we learn from God’s Word into our everyday duties is the, “frosting on the cake”, so to speak.**

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – public domain

Girl Praying – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

BATTLEFIELD OF THE HEART!

.

**The point is, the mind (the heart) is where the Christian battle is fought.**

.

And it only makes sense that we must give ourselves every advantage. And the battle to overcome the world and the flesh is the greatest battle the Christian will ever fight.

.

And nothing less than a complete 100% devotion to this cause will be required, if we ever hope for victory over the world, the flesh, and the Devil!

.

ABOVE PICTURE: Battle for the heart – www.signsofheaven.org

.

TRANSFORMED BY THE SPIRIT

.

And if I am truly indwelt by the Spirit of Holiness, then He will give me a love for such spiritual things.

.

He will change my tastes in music and Bible contemplation, and in every other aspect of my life.

.

And then I will be able to say with the Psalmist… “O how love I Thy Law (Word)! it is my meditation all the day.” Psalm 119:97

.

David Playing Harp www.thebiblerevival.com US public domain

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to fill my mind with only the good things that Thy Word approves of. Keep back Thy servant from all ungodly influences. Mold me and make me into Thy image…

Prayer – USMC – Wikimedia – US Govt. Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

THE WIDE & NARROW GATE STARS

.

LOCATION

.

This most amazing phenomenon is seen throughout the winter. Although it can be observed most of the winter, it is seen best when it is the western part of the sky, at winter’s end (The end of winter being the final scene of this heavenly Gospel story). Orion , the Dragon, and the Glorious White Horse are beginning to descend into the western horizon (sketch to right is Winter Constellations descending into western horizon. This can actually be seen as early as December, in the pre-dawn hours).

.

And at this point it is apparent that the Fleeing Woman of Revelation 12 Constellation is veering toward the two bright stars, known as Castor and Pollux (sketch to left). But the Wide Gate Stars are composed of the two brightest stars of the Auriga Constellation, known as the star, Capella, and the star, Menkalinan. The two stars, Castor and Pollux, make up the concept of the Orion’s Narrow Gate Stars.

.

This can even be observed into June in the western sky (for a short time just after dark). While a dark night is best for seeing the Woman Constellation, the 4 stars which comprise the Narrow Gate/Wide Gate Stars can be seen even under mediocre conditions. It begins with the Fleeing Woman of Revelation 12 Constellation (AKA Ursa Major) going towards these two doors.

.

The sketch to left shows, the two doors are each composed of two bright stars. The two bright stars that comprise the Narrow Gate are the two brightest stars of the Orion the Reaper’s sickle. The two stars that comprise the ‘Wide Gate’ Stars are the two brightest stars of the wave of water that comes out of the Dragon Constellation’s mouth (for explanation of “Wave of Water”, just click here). The stars that make up the ‘Narrow Gate’ are about half the width of the Wide Gate (see sketch to right).

.

(For more information on Orion’s sickle, just click here,“Orion The R eaper”.)

.

Editor’s note: These sketches on this page are merely sketches. The stars are not in their exact place. However, they are close enough to find them in the night sky. But as with most stars, it takes persistence to finally locate them.

.

TOMORROW…

MAY 21 (The False Prophet, Part 6: The 7th Head)

ABOVE ENGRAVING: Whore – Babylon – Burgkmair – 1523 AD – this old engraving shows that the Church once realized that the Babylon Mother of Harlots was actually the apostate churches – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS STUDY #505 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 19 (A World of Lies, Part 6: It’s a Cuttlefish World!)

By admin On April 7th, 2015

.

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – MAY 19

.

A World of Lies,

.

Part 6:

“It’s a Cuttlefish World!”

To read Part 1, click here… “January 3 (World of Lies, Part 1: The Femme-Fatale Firefly!)”

.

“And we know that we are of God,

and the whole world lieth in wickedness.”

1st John 5:19

.

God originally created this world to be a beautiful home for Mankind. Yet when we fell from grace, this world began to change in many ways. Nature, to a certain extent, began to take on some changes. Many creatures and plants, etc., gradually took on dangerous aspects.

.

But in addition to giving nature the ability to become dangerous after the Fall of Man, God also designed nature to teach lessons about good and evil!

.

Yes, there are many creatures who exhibit appearances and behaviors which teach us about heavenly virtues. But many aspects of nature teach lessons about Satan’s government of Hell!

.

Cuttlefish komodo – cropped image – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

.

CUTTLEFISH: THE ULTIMATE IMPOSTORS!

.

One of the most amazing creatures ever created is the Cuttlefish!

.

The reason why this creature is so incredible, is that it can just glance at its environment and instantly change its body to imitate that environment.

.

For instance, if it wants to hide from its enemies, or lie-in-wait for its victims, next to a seaweed, it simply changes its color, spots, and shape to imitate that seaweed. It can even instantly grow leaf-like appendages to imitate certain seaweeds!

.

This little creature is nothing short of amazing!

.

Cuttlefish.ogv – cropped image – Wikipedia – Creative Commons License

.

SWIFTER THAN LEOPARDS

.

Conservative Christianity is amazed to see the world turning against them so rapidly.

.

We are even dumbfounded to behold a world-wide phenomenon in which Satan is working through unbelievers to burn down churches, while governments have little or no condemnation against such demonically hateful activity!

.

It makes one’s head spin to see Satan’s armies rise up against Christianity so quickly!

.

The prophet, Habakkuk alludes to this phenomenon… “Their horses also are swifter than the leopards,” Habakkuk 1:8

.

The prophet, Habakkuk alludes to this phenomenon… “Their horses also are swifter than the leopards,” Habakkuk 1:8

.

**The paradigm shift which is now occurring around the world, is happening so rapidly, that it seems to fulfill Habakkuk’s prophecy, “*swifter than the leopards”***.

.

ISIL – Execution of man – September 2014 – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

TELEVISION & OTHER MEDIA

.

And speaking of being “swifter than leopards”, television, Internet, radio and various printed media are coming against Christians and their children so rapidly, that it is like being caught in the crossfire of machine guns!

.

Yes, this prophecy of Habakkuk seems to be describing the various modern media and high-tech devices which are now taking control of the minds of the human family at such an incredible speed that we hardly stand a chance against their powerful and persuasive programming!

.

PARADIGM SHIFT

.

**For those living in this western culture, we marvel that all those traditions and values which our culture stood for, are now being, “tossed out the window”, as they say.**

.

**We thought that this society was a solid as the proverbial “Rock of Gibraltar” in those traditions and Christian values.**

.

**But all of a sudden, those fundamental values have evaporated like “the morning dew”.**

.

And now, all of a sudden, in the place of our long-held Christian values, Sodom & Gomorrah is rising up all around us.

.

Paganism is taking control of our children. Haters of basic human values are now fiercely and aggressively attacking those once-cherished standards!

.

And all this reminds us of Habakkuk’s words… “Their horses also are swifter than the leopards, and are more fierce than the evening wolves: and their horsemen shall spread themselves, and their horsemen shall come from far; they shall fly as the eagle that hasteth to eat. They shall come all for violence: their faces shall sup up as the east wind, and they shall gather the captivity as the sand.” Habakkuk 1:8, 9

.

Gay Parade – cropped and altered image – Wikimedia – GNU Free Documentation License

.

WHY ARE WE SURPRISED?

.

Now all this sudden change of mind should not surprise us.

.

It’s a cuttlefish world, after all!

.

Satan has merely been camouflaging the true nature of this world.

.

This world-system has seemed friendly towards Christians for a while, actually for several hundred years now.

.

But like the cuttlefish, it was merely disguising itself until the moment it would strike its victim! Us!

.

But now, the world is beginning to unmask its true satanic nature!

.

And what we thought was a pretty nice and friendly world, is now beginning again, to become the tyrant it already once was during what was named, “The Dark Ages”.

.

Giant Cuttlefish6 – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution

.

HABAKKUK SAYS “RUN!”

.

And so, the prophet Habakkuk saw the vision in which the wicked would envelope God’s people to the point that the true Gospel would be perverted, and the children of God would be overwhelmed by powerful and unholy influences…

.

Listen to Habakkuk’s vision… “Therefore the law is slacked, and judgment doth never go forth: for the wicked doth compass about the righteous; therefore wrong judgment proceedeth.” Habakkuk 1:4

.

This sinful world is now forcing its wickedness on God’s people as surely as the Sodomites tried to force themselves on Lot’s house, the last night before its destruction!

.

Yes, we are living in that very day! And Satan is about ready to attack God’s people as viciously as that cuttlefish snatches its victim in its deadly jaws.

.

The Sodomites are smitten with blindness – Wikipedia – US public domain

.

WHERE MUST WE FLEE?

.

So what are we to do?

.

Listen to God’s command… “And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” Habakkuk 2:2, 3

.

Yes, just as Lot was commanded to flee Sodom on that fateful morning, so now, God’s people are to flee this evil society.

.

And yet, we cannot flee to the literal mountains, as did our spiritual forefathers in the day when the European apostate churches persecuted true Christians.

.

No, but now we must flee to the spiritual mountains, which this website has revealed.

.

Picture – Lot Escapes Sodom – www.thebiblerevival.com offers free Bible clipart – Public Domain.

.

WATCH THIS SHORT BUT AMAZING VIDEO…

.

TO READ PART 7, CLICK HERE…

OCTOBER 16 (A World of Lies, Part 7: A Cuttle-fish World: The Enemy Within!)

ABOVE PICTURE: Battle for the heart – www.signsofheaven.org

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to see and understand the great deception, which is the Planet Earth! Help me study Thy Word that I may become wise as a serpent, but harmless as a dove…

Prayer at Day’s End – Angelus by Jean-François Millet – Wikipedia – Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

“I am crucified with Christ:

.

nevertheless I live; yet not I,

.

but Christ lives in me:

.

and the life which I now live in the flesh

.

I live by the faith of the Son of God,

.

who loved me, and gave Himself for me.”

.

Galatians 2:20

.

7 STARS IMITATE THE CROSS OF ORION

.

This phenomenon begins in late October, in the pre-dawn hours. It then begins a little earlier each night.

.

The Wikipedia star-chart to the left, has this Orion Constellation sketched in. You must locate Orion, when it is mid-sky, between east and west. You’ll be facing southward most likely, unless you are far south. Try to imagine it as a Cross on a steep hill. The 3-star belt of Orion becomes the crest of the hill. The 3 very faint stars that make up Orion’s head become the very top of the Cross.

.

Next, locate the 7 Stars Constellation. This 7 Stars Constellation is seen by facing northward. It stands upright a little later in the night. Eventually, Orion will lay down and no longer be seen as an uplifted Cross! Beginning in November, the 7 Stars (AKA Big Dipper) can be seen as a Cross a little bit later in evening.

.

**When you are comfortable in locating Orion & The 7 Stars Constellations, then show a friend. This can be a great witnessing tool!**

.

ABOVE CHART: The Cross of Orion Constellation star-chart – wikipedia star-chart with orion drawn in by this website – not for commercial use

.

TOMORROW…

“May 20 (Sherlock Holmes Sanctification)”

Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS STUDY #504 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 18 (What Is True Love? Part 2: Parenting)

By admin On April 6th, 2015

.

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 18

.

What Is True Love?

.

Part 2:

“Parenting”

To read Part 1, click here…May 16 (What Is True Love?)

.

“Correct thy son (or daughter),

and he shall give thee rest;

yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.”

Proverbs 29:17

.

“I love hot dogs and pizza!”

.

“I love baseball!”

.

“I love my wife!”

.

The word, “Love” is a catch-all word which encompasses many different forms of affection. And so, it becomes somewhat confusing when somebody says, “I love this!”, or “I love that!”

.

Fraternal love (Prehispanic sculpture from 250–900 A.D., of Huastec origin) wikimedia public domain

Kartoffel pizza – cropped image – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

.

LOVE, A MANY-SPECTRUMED THING!

.

There are many Christians who are likewise confused about what it means to love.

.

And in the May 16 devotional, the many qualities of love were spotlighted: self-sacrifice, patience, forgiveness, purity, temperance, honesty, and many other virtues are all part of true agape love, and cannot be separated or eliminated for there to be genuine love.

.

**And in the May 16 devotional (click here to read), these aspects were pointed to, in the Crucifixion of Christ.**

.

Sign of the Son of Man Constellation – made of the various constellations on this website

.

LOVE FOR OUR CHILDREN

.

**Now in today’s devotional, the spotlight will turn to the family. Because there is great confusion about just what is, “true, genuine love” for our children.**

.

Yes, there are many parents who make the claim that, “I really love my kids!”

.

And some of these parents would actually lay down their lives for their children, if for example, they saw their children drowning.

.

Family Portrait – cropped photo – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

.

***BUT WOULD YOU* *LIVE FOR THEM?***

.

And many parents would die for their children.

.

But the question to be answered today is, “Would I live for my children? Would I lay down my daily life for my children, right now? Would I sacrifice my everyday life, my selfish pleasures, my career, my free time for my children?”

.

Question Marks – At a loss – svg – Wikimedia Commons – Share-Alike License

.

KIDS SLIGHTED FOR SELF-INDULGENCE

.

The fact is, rather than devote their lives to patiently guiding their children on the upward heavenly pathway, many parents instead indulge themselves in nearly everything but that!

.

Yes, so many parents devote more time and energy to their needlessly high-paying careers, or to their personal hobbies, or to their entertainment, than they devote to their children.

.

And as a result, the children get pushed aside, or get seated in front of the TV, video games, or hand-held devices, or encouraged to go play with the neighborhood kids, or go to public schooling and endless sports programs.

.

And of course, Satan uses such circumstances to do his own brand of “child-rearing”.

.

ABOVE PICTURE: TV, The Babysitter From Hell

Girl Texting – cropped photo – Wikimedia – Creative Commons 2.0

.

SALVATION: HIGHEST FORM OF LOVE

.

But what is true love?

.

Well, true love is to desire the highest good for our children!

.

And what is the highest good?

.

The Salvation of souls! That is the highest good!

.

That is the reason that Christ came to this earth.

.

Woman praying – Heinrich Seufferheld – 1893 – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

THE WORLD CONTINUES (FOR A TIME)

.

And so, God has allowed this world to continue, from His great hope that Mankind might finally realize our error, and turn once again back to the Lord…

.

Listen… “For the creature (i.e., Mankind) was made subject to vanity (a meaningless existence), not willingly, but by reason of Him who hath subjected the same in hope,” Romans 8:20

.

Yes, as this above verse reveals, God has allowed this world to continue these past thousands of years, for the express purpose of showing Mankind the error of our ways, but also to show Mankind the glory of Heaven’s government of “unselfish love”, as we look at Christ, and at the beauties of Creation.

.

People on Times Square – cropped photo – Wikimedia Commons – Share-Alike License

.

LEADING OTHERS TO CHRIST

.

Now, when we understand God’s over-arching purpose for allowing the world to continue, then we begin to understand what true love is.

.

And true love will cooperate with God’s eternal purpose, by working together Him, in leading others back to Heaven’s unselfish government.

.

And so, those households which have two Christian parents, will want to show their children true love, beginning while the children are still young.

.

And such parents will have to stand up to the outside pressures from the world, and worldly Christians, to allow ungodly influences into their children’s daily life.

.

Homeschoolers playing Dutch Blitz at picnic gathering – cropped photo – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

.

REAPING THE WHIRLWIND

.

But the fact is, quite often, it is not made manifest just how terrible their role-model and example has been, until the child reaches his or her teens.

.

And by the time the wrongly trained child reaches those years, it is probably too late to undo the incredible damage which has been done upon that child for the past dozen or more years, by such self-indulgent parents.

.

Girl – Depression by Danielzanetti for Wikimedia – cropped photo – C.C. Share-alike License 3.0

.

WITH ALL THY HEART

.

The Good News to all this is, we have a very tenderhearted and forgiving God, who can work, and does work miracles on a daily basis.

.

**This is the only hope for your children. It is futile to try to argue them back to God. It is only by spiritually blessing your own life, can you ever hope to bless your now-almost-grown children.**

.

David’s sorrow – Wikigallery – Public Domain

.

FULL IMMERSION

.

Change my music to the most holy and heaven-like music. Stop watching TV myself, even if they refuse to give it up (We’re talking about rebellious teens. Younger children may be pliable enough to set back on a heavenward course). Give myself to reading and listening to Scripture. Begin to pray and contemplate the Bible without ceasing! Rid my life of worldly-minded associations. Create a Heaven-on-Earth in my home. Don’t “talk” my religion so much as “live” my religion. Because it is God who changes the hearts of wayward individuals. But He will only do this for me, as I allow Him to burn away the dross from my heart and life. Oh yes, there may be many fiery trials ahead, O Christian parent. But it will all be worth the pain, as we finally see strangers… “bring thy sons in their arms, and thy daughters shall be carried upon their shoulders.” Isaiah 49:22

.

Yes, God has His own ways of bringing back our wayward children, back into His fold! But right now, both you and I must begin to order our own lives aright, in the fear and service of Jesus Christ.

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to live by Thy agape love, laying down my life for my children, making my home an intelligent, gentle, and loving, Bible-based home….

Woman Praying – cropped image – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

THE REVELATION 12 DRAGON

.

This Dragon constellation appears in the eastern horizon about mid-summer in the pre-dawn hours, spewing his flood-waters northward toward the Revelatio n 12 Woman in Travail (not pictured in this chart).

.

The Wave of Water is primarily composed of the Constellation Auriga. There are two dimmer stars (#’s 1 & 2) which are closest to the Dragon’s mouth. These two dimmer stars are also part of this Wave of Water.

.

THE ZODIAC NAMES

It is not the purpose, nor the desire of www.theheavensdeclare.net to give any validity or recognition to the Zodiac or any pagan deities. But unfortunately, the common names of many constellations (such as Scorpio or Sagittarius, etc.), must be given, solely for the purpose of locating them on star-charts.

.

TOMORROW…

“May 19 (A World of Lies, Part 6: It’s a Cuttlefish World!)”

Giant Cuttlefish – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth)ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS STUDY #503 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 17 (J. S. Bach: “A Devilish Hubbub!”)

By admin On April 6th, 2015

.

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 17

.

J. S. Bach: “A Devilish Hubbub!”

.

“hubbub”

.

DEFINITION: a chaotic din caused by a crowd of people:

“a hubbub of laughter and shouting”

synonyms: noise · din · racket · commotion · clamor · cacophony · babel

.

Powered by OxfordDictionaries · © Oxford University Press

.

“All music should have no other end and aim than the glory of God and the soul’s refreshment; where this is not remembered there is no real music but only a devilish hubbub.”

.

Quote: Johann Sebastian Bach (courtesy-www.goodreads.com)

Picture: Bach – Hausmann – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

A PROUD, REBELLIOUS WORLD

.

One would think that if there ever was a human who could make such a condemning statement about the world’s music, it would be someone of Bach’s great position in the world of music.

.

Well, isn’t it true that we live in a very proud world?

.

Yes, and the people here do not like to hear condemning statements about the things they hold in such high esteem.

.

And understandably so!

.

Picture: Bach – Hausmann – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

A DEVILISH HUBBUB

.

But for some reason, Bach did not get much of a black-eye for this statement…

.

Listen again… “All music should have no other end and aim than the glory of God and the soul’s refreshment; where this is not remembered there is no real music but only a devilish hubbub.”

.

Well, maybe he took a little heat back in his day over this statement.

.

**But “time heals all wounds” as they say. And anyway, he’s dead! And that particular statement does not get much play these days.**

.

JS Bach – Köthen – Anhalt – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 Generic license.

.

JESUS, MUCH DESPISED

.

Jesus also said some very condemning things during His 42 month ministry. And He took a lot of heat from His own people. Yes, He was even taken to a cliff by His very own towns-people with the intent of throwing Him over. Of course they could not, because it wasn’t His time to die.

.

But later in His ministry, His very own people wanted to kill Him, to which He said… “But now ye seek to kill Me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God…” John 8:40

.

And of course, Jesus was eventually put on the Cross, because He testified to all the world… “that the works thereof are evil.”

.

Picture: Bach – Hausmann – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

Sign of the Son of Man Constellation – made of the various constellations on this website

.

WORLD LIES IN WICKEDNESS

.

Listen to this whole statement… “The world cannot hate you (Jesus’ brothers); but Me it hates, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil.” John 7:7

.

Yes, the whole world really hates Jesus.

.

And when Christians condemn the world, the world will eventually react the same way they reacted to Jesus.

.

And so, this proud and defiant world will not tolerate Christians forever.

.

And we are already seeing television, the movie industry and even political parties ratchet up their war against God’s people.

.

Protest – Anti-Christian rally in Chicago – cropped image – Wikimedia

.

GIDEON’S FAITHFUL 300

.

So how did we get on this subject of Christian persecution, when this devotional was talking about J.S. Bach?

.

Well, because we are just now entering the last message to the world.

.

And God’s chosen few will be shedding the last remnants of our earthly skin, so to speak. That is, God is calling out the re-fulfillment of Gideon’s faithful 300.

.

Remember that story? Gideon led the charge with those who were holding clay pitchers with burning lamps inside. And at his command, those soldiers each broke their pitchers, crying out… “The Sword of the Lord, and of Gideon!” (see Judges, Chapter 7)

.

Well, to make a long story short, the Hebrews defeated the enemy that night.

.

judges7-Gideon & The 300-www.thebiblerevival.com-public domain

.

SYMBOLISM OF GIDEON’S STORY

.

But just what does this story of Gideon have to do with the statement by Bach?

.

Well, just as those faithful 300 broke those clay vessels, so will we also, in these last moments of time!

.

Yes, the time is drawing near when God’s people will finally break this mortal body of clay, only to reveal our brightly burning heavenly lamps within.

.

And God will bring His faithful ones to victory over the world and over the flesh.

.

judges7-Gideon & The 300-www.thebiblerevival.com-public domain

.

BEHOLDING CHRIST, CHANGED

.

In other words, the hour is coming when those who have been faithfully studying our Bibles, in hopes of filling our hearts with the precious promises of Christ, will finally overcome the flesh (symbolized by the breaking of the clay jars).

.

And when this happens, the world (symbolized by the Midianites), will be surprised to see God’s people shining like the Sun (symbolized by those brightly burning lamps!)

.

When this happens, the victory will be won! The world will actually defeat itself, just like those Midianites began to fight against their own selves.

.

Transfiguration – Bloch – Wikimedia Commons – US Public Domain

.

WORLDLY MUSIC GONE

.

So once again, what in the world does all this have to do with J. S. Bach’s statement… “All music should have no other end and aim than the glory of God and the soul’s refreshment; where this is not remembered there is no real music but only a devilish hubbub.”?

.

**Simple! Just as Bach stated that worldly music is only “a devilish hubbub”, so too, God’s people are just now being admonished to put away all devilish hubbub out of our lives!**

.

**And not just the devilish hubbub of worldly music, but all unchristlike behavior! And we are to strive for all the world to see Christ and Christ only, as He shines out from our mortal bodies!**

.

And if this is our sole purpose in life, then when the day comes for Gideon (Christ) to sound the battle trumpet, we will be among the faithful few who will cry out… “The Sword (The Bible) of the Lord, and of Gideon (Christ)!”

.

Picture: Bach – Hausmann – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

ABOVE PICTURE: soldiers of the cross – armor up! – www.signsofheaven.org

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

Dear Lord, Help me to glorify Thee in all that I think, say, and do…and in the music I listen to…

Marine Praying – cropped image – Wikimedia – USMC Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

THE GLITTERING SWORD CONSTELLATION

constellation of signs of heaven in upright position

.

“In that day the LORD with his sore and great and strong sword shall punish leviathan the piercing serpent, even leviathan that crooked serpent; and he shall slay the dragon that is in the sea.” Isaiah 27:1

.

Glittering Sword Constellation

.

This constellation is made of most of the constellations in this website. The upper portion can be seen in the winter, while the lower blade is visible in the warmer months. (This constellation is actually in a semi-circle, as it appears in the night-sky. These pictures, however, show it as it would appear straightened out.)

.

TOMORROW:

“May 18 (What Is True Love? Part 2: Parenting)”

Mother Child face-to-face – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

ALL ‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS STUDY #502 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 16 (What Is True Love?)

By admin On April 4th, 2015

.

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 16

.

What Is True Love?

.

“I love hot dogs and pizza!”

.

“I love baseball!”

.

“I love my wife!”

.

The word, “Love” is a catch-all word which encompasses many different forms of affection. And so, it becomes somewhat confusing when somebody says, “I love this!”, or “I love that!”

.

Fraternal love (Prehispanic sculpture from 250–900 A.D., of Huastec origin) wikimedia public domain

Kartoffel pizza – cropped photo – Wikipedia – Share-alike License

.

JUST LOVE PEOPLE

.

There are many Christians who are likewise confused about what it means to love.

.

And there are many newcomers into Christianity who throw up their hands in discouragement and say, “I’m just going to love others! That’s all that Jesus wants or expects from us!”

.

**And so, this word, “Love” is very confusing.**

.

Question Marks – At a loss – svg – Wikimedia Commons – Share-Alike License

.

GREEK WORDS FOR LOVE

.

**As most Christians understand, there are a number of Greek words for, “Love”, in the Bible. One word is, “Filial”, which means, “I care about you”.**

.

**Another Greek word is, “Ares”, which is a term for, “romantic feelings”.**

.

**The Greek word for God’s love is, “Agape”. It means a charitable love. It is not at all romantic in nature. It means a self-sacrificing love.**

.

Muskrat Love – cropped photo – www.dapphoto.com – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0

.

“PETER, LOVEST THOU ME?”

.

One very prominent use of two different kinds of love is found in the exchange between Peter and Jesus, after He was resurrected. Peter had just denied his Lord a short time earlier.

.

And now, Peter, a much humbler, and less mouthy disciple, was asked by Jesus… “He saith unto him the third time, Simon…lovest (Filial) thou Me? Peter was grieved because He said unto him the third time, Lovest (Filial) thou Me? And he said unto Him, Lord, thou knowest all things; Thou knowest that I love (Filial) thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed My sheep.” John 21:17

.

This third questioning by Jesus merely asked Peter if he had filial love for his Lord. And Peter sadly acknowledged that his love for Jesus was less than true agape love.

.

And so now, Peter was humbled enough to become a shepherd of the flock of God. Now Peter understood that his love was less than it should be. No longer would Peter boast of his great love and loyalty! He knew that he was merely a dirty rotten sinner, completely saved by grace and grace alone!

.

Tissot – The Sorrow of Peter – Joyful Heart.com

.

LOVE SEEN IN THE CROSS

.

But even the word, Agape, does not reveal the full spectrum of Love. The Cross, however, gives us a greater picture of love.

.

Because, as we contemplate the Cross, we begin to see other virtues in that one act of supreme sacrificial love.

.

Yes, in the Cross, we see that love extends itself far beyond one’s immediate family. The Cross was an act of love for each and every human, no matter how wicked that human is! This kind of love transcends the love found in this world!

.

Tissot – As seen from the Cross – Wikipedia – US public domain

.

FORGIVENESS

.

We also see supreme forgiveness in the Cross.

.

It is a forgiveness which transcends human forgiveness.

.

Cross of Jesus Christ – cropped photo – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

.

HUMILITY

.

We also begin to see God’s humility in coming down to this wicked evil world, and completely humbling Himself to the point of having others spit on Him, and mock Him, and put Him on the much-despised Cross, hanging there naked for all the world to see!

.

This was humility in all its splendor!

.

Sign of the Son of Man Constellation – made of the various constellations on this website

.

HONESTY

.

But honesty is another virtue which manifested itself in the light of the Cross.

.

From His straight-forward testimony before Pilate and Herod, and the High Priests, Caiaphas and Annas, to His refusal to drink the poison which would have somewhat deadened the pain of His incredible payment for the sins of the world.

.

These were acts of honesty.

.

Cross of Jesus Christ – cropped photo – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

.

FAITH

.

And of course, the Cross demanded a great faith in His Heavenly Father.

.

**And that faith was severely tested to the point of His cry… “My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?” Mark 15:34.**

.

At that point, the Father must have withdrawn His presence, to the degree that Jesus didn’t know if His Father had completely and forever forsaken Jesus.

.

Cross of Jesus Christ – cropped photo – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

.

PURITY

.

All during His trial before various authorities, Jesus maintained purity in speech and purity in heart!

.

Satan knew this was his last chance to get Jesus to sin in heart. And so, Satan worked through these various authorities, to stir up even a little bit of sin within the heart of Jesus.

.

But from beginning to end, Jesus maintained that pureness of heart.

.

Cross of Jesus Christ – cropped photo – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

.

OTHER QUALITIES OF LOVE

.

**Well, these are just some of the aspects which make up that word, “Agape”.**

.

But agape love has other aspects to it, which we cannot now explore, for lack of time: longsuffering, meekness, temperance, holiness, quietness, generosity, self-denial.

.

**All these virtues (and more) make up the one great virtue of, “Love”.**

.

And without all these virtues present, there can be no real and true love.

.

Question book magnify svg – Wikimedia – GNU license

.

HOW DO WE FIND LOVE?

.

And so, this is the quest for each and every Christian: to finally become filled with the multi-spectrumed qualities of the Love of Christ.

.

But how do we do that? How in the world do we take hold of the love of Christ?

.

Well, the following verse is of great help… “Thy Word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against Thee.” Psalm 119:11

.

And so, the more we replace worldly wisdom with God’s precious words into our heart, the more that we become imperceptibly changed into the image of Christ Jesus.

.

And by hiding these words of God in our heart, the more easily can God’s Holy Spirit bring all things back to our remembrance.

.

TO READ PART 2, CLICK HERE…

May 18 (What Is True Love? Part 2: Parenting)

Mother Child face-to-face – Wikimedia – Creative Commons Attribution 2.0

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Help me to live by all the various principles of Thy Word. Fill me with Thy incredible love, with all its many qualities…

Girl Praying – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

THE REVELATION 12 DRAGON

.

This Dragon constellation appears in the eastern horizon about mid-summer in the pre-dawn hours, spewing his flood-waters northward toward the Revelatio n 12 Woman in Travail (not pictured in this chart).

.

The Wave of Water is primarily composed of the Constellation Auriga. There are two dimmer stars (#’s 1 & 2) which are closest to the Dragon’s mouth. These two dimmer stars are also part of this Wave of Water.

.

THE ZODIAC NAMES

It is not the purpose, nor the desire of www.theheavensdeclare.net to give any validity or recognition to the Zodiac or any pagan deities. But unfortunately, the common names of many constellations (such as Scorpio or Sagittarius, etc.), must be given, solely for the purpose of locating them on star-charts.

.

TOMORROW…

“May 17 (J. S. Bach: “A Devilish Hubbub!”)”

Bach – Hausmann – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

ALL‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS STUDY #501 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING…

.

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 15 (The World’s Most Powerful Weapon)

By admin On April 3rd, 2015

.

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 15

.

The World’s Most Powerful Weapon

.

What if you asked the question, “What is the world’s most powerful weapon?”,

.

**Well, the general consensus would probably say, “The atomic bomb”.**

.

Castle romeo2 nuclear bomb – Wikipedia – Public-Domain

.

But there is a weapon which far exceeds the atomic bomb!

.

Exclamation Mark – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

DIFFERENT WEAPONS

.

Listen to the following passage from Paul… “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;” 2nd Corinthians 10:3, 4

.

So here the Bible speaks of a much more powerful arsenal than any of the weapons which mankind has invented!

.

Paul – Wikimedia – US Public Domain

.

POWER TO PURIFY HEART

.

So what weapon is it, that Paul speaks of?

.

Listen as he continues… “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;” 2nd Corinthians 10:5

.

So now it is revealed that the weapons of our warfare are able to completely subdue the carnal nature within our hearts, and bring every thought to the obedience of Christ.

.

WEAPONS IN RIGHT AND LEFT HAND

.

But here’s another verse from 2nd Corinthians about our weapons… “By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor (weapons) of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,” 2nd Corinthians 6:7

.

Now here it speaks of weapons in the plural.

.

ABOVE PICTURE: The armor of God – theheavensdeclare.net -use by permission only

.

SWORD & SHIELD

.

So what weapons does the Christian hold in his right hand and in his left?

.

Listen… “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked….and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God:” Ephesians 6:16, 17

.

**So here we see that the “shield of faith”, and the “sword of the Spirit, the Word of God”, are the weapons of choice for the Christian soldier.**

.

ABOVE PICTURE: The armor of God – theheavensdeclare.net -use by permission only

.

SUN & MOON STOOD STILL

.

But how can we possibly think that these weapons are more powerful than an atomic bomb? Well, listen to this next verse… “Then spake Joshua to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon. And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies.” Joshua 10:12, 13

.

So, by faith, Joshua commanded the Sun and Moon to stand still, and that’s exactly what happened! Both the Sun and the Moon stood still for 24 hours, until God’s people got the victory over their enemies!

.

Now can an atomic bomb do that? Even if all the world’s atomic bombs were exploded at once, it would not cause the Earth or the Sun, or the Moon to stand still.

.

Dore – Joshua – Sun stands still – Wikipedia – US Public Domain

.

UNLIMITED POWER

.

And so, having such weapons at our disposal, what can Christians not do?

.

Certainly, the Christian can do more than we dare think or imagine!

.

Listen… “Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the Power that worketh in us,” Ephesians 3:20

.

This above passage lets us know that the Power that works in us can do far more than we ask or think. So why do we remain in such a dismal and semi-diseased spiritual condition?

.

Transfiguration – Bloch – Wikimedia Commons – US Public Domain

.

STORY OF JONATHAN

.

Do you remember the account of when Jonathan and his armor-bearer attacked an entire army?

.

Listen… “And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for there is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few.” 1st Samuel 14:6

.

So, these two faith-filled men decided to attack an entire army, and this began an earth-shaking chain of events which resulted in the Philistines defeating their own selves!

.

Jonathan attacks enemy – www.lavistachurchofchrist.org – Public Domain

.

A FAILED LAODICEAN CHURCH

.

So the point is, that if only we Christians realized just what power we have at our disposal, Christianity would look much different than it does today!

.

Listen to the dismal report from Isaiah, regarding the New Testament Church… “We have been with child, we have been in pain, we have as it were brought forth wind; we have not wrought any deliverance in the earth; neither have the inhabitants of the world fallen.” Isaiah 26:18

.

Here is one of the saddest commentaries about the Church, found in the entire Bible! We have failed to bring forth Christ, both collectively and individually.

.

But also this verse infers that the inhabitants of the world could have been conquered in the name of Christ, if only we would have fulfilled our great commission to become transformed into the image of Jesus, both collectively and individually!

.

PS Krøyer – Hip hip hurra! – Kunstnerfest på Skagen – 1888 – Wikimedia – Public Domain

.

WEAPONS STILL WITHIN REACH

.

Well, the very Good News to all this is, that those weapons of warfare are still within our reach!

.

Yes, as Paul puts it… “Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the Power that worketh in us,” Ephesians 3:20

.

This above verse reveals that God is willing to do an incredible work within us, both individually and collectively! We just do not understand what power is available to us! And when we finally avail ourselves of this power, the Elect of God will shine as the Sun, for all the world to behold!

.

USMC – Prayer before Bible study – Wikimedia – public domain

.

“AWAKE TO RIGHTEOUSNESS”

1st Corinthians 15:34

.

The secret to unlimited power is found when a Christian finally decides to give his or her self unreservedly to the Lord. The following passage from Isaiah foretells of the day when God’s people finally decide to forsake our earthly idols…

.

Listen… “In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; To go into the clefts of the ragged rocks, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory of His majesty, when He arises to shake terribly, the earth!” Isaiah 2:19-21

.

We are living in that day. And it remains for us to run to that mighty Rock, Jesus, to take refuge in His Word, and in unceasing prayer, having forsaken this present world-order with all its idols.

.

Picture – Lot Escapes Sodom – www.thebiblerevival.com offers free Bible clipart – Public Domain.

.

TODAY’S PRAYER…

“Dear Lord, Make me to arise from my slumber and take up the armor of God and the weapons of warfare, in which to battle against the enemy of souls…

Prayer – USMC – Wikimedia – US Govt. Public Domain

.

THE END

.

TODAY’S FEATURED HEAVENLY SIGN

Info & pics of constellations on this site from Wikipedia & International Astronomical Union (click here)

.

ORION THE SOLDIER

.

The pagan cultures saw this incredible constellation as a hunter, with a club.

.

Well, they weren’t too far off. Actually, God created it to appear like a soldier. This is because all nature presents aspects of the Gospel.

.

Listen… “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows his handiwork.” Psalm 19:1.

.

And so now we are amazed to discover that beyond the awesome grandeur of the starry night-heavens, God has actually written the Love of God upon the heavenly scroll!

.

Orionurania – Wikipedia – public domain

.

7 MAJOR STARS OF ORION…

.

Orion Constellation can best be seen all winter (but even in August in the pre-dawn hours of morning in eastern skies) traveling east to west through the night, in mid-sky.

.

To find the seven major stars of Orion (one star on each shoulder and one star on each foot, plus the three stars which make his belt), you can locate on just about any clear night regardless of the blackness of the night. To find Orion’s other stars, you need more star-visibility…a darker, moonless night, and possibly away from city lights.

.

Orion – Wikimedia – share-alike license

ABOVE PICTURE: Orion the Soldier and the Revelation 12 Dragon (Hyades & Pleiades, etc. – winter constellations – www.signsofheaven.org – not for commercial use

.

TOMORROW…

“May 16 (What Is True Love?)”

kissing hand – Wikimedia – Share-alike License

.

20+ MINUTE AUDIO STUDY IN JEREMIAH

.

ALL‘NOBLE BEREANS’ (open-minded seekers of Bible truth) ARE ENCOURAGED TO BEGIN FOLLOWING THIS 650+ AUDIO BIBLE STUDY THROUGH THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH EACH DAY ON THIS DAILY DEVOTIONAL.

.

THIS STUDY #500 IS PRESENTED BY THE LATE HAROLD CAMPING

.

above picture: Prophet Jeremiah – www.christianimagesource.org – Public Domain

.

Those who are interested in using photos on this page may click on provided link below each photo, to get to Wikimedia Commons for various licensing details & tags, and all other necessary information on any particular photo.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Devouring Fire.com

Daily Devotional, Year 2 – May 24 (Eternal Torment? Part 6: The Best Kept Secret in Hell)

.

.

Daily Devotional – May 24

.

.

.

.

Eternal Torment?

.

Part 6:

“The Best Kept Secret In Hell”

.

.

.

.

.

During most of WWII, the general populace of Germany was unaware that millions of Jews were being imprisoned, suffering, sometimes even tortured, and finally ushered into so-called “showers”, in which they were gassed to death.

.

Yes, the cruel Nazi regime somehow kept this all a big secret from the citizens of Germany, until the war was almost over!

.

Because those wicked Nazi officials knew that if the general populace discovered this horrible cruelty, there would be a mass uprising and rebellion against the “Third Reich”.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

LOVED ONES FORGOTTEN?

.

Two hosts on a popular Christian radio show were taking calls from listeners on various questions about the Bible.

.

And one of the callers asked about this church doctrine, “Eternal Torment”…

.

“How are we going to be happy in Heaven for all eternity, knowing that our loved ones are being tormented in fire throughout the endless ions of eternity future?”

.

With such peace and quiet confidence, the hosts assured the caller that those redeemed ones will not have any knowledge of all the torment that is occurring throughout eternity.

.

And for a Bible reference, came this following quote… “For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.” Isaiah 65:17

.

And with these so-called “comforting” words, the caller said, “thank-you” and the next caller asked a different question.

.

.

.

.

.

.

THIS WORLD IS FORGOTTEN, BUT NOT OUR LOVED ONES!

.

One problem with this answer is that this above verse must be balanced together with other related Bible passages! Scripture must be compared with all other related scriptures in order to find truth!

.

.

Yes, those former things are “passed away” as this above verse actually says! That’s why Isaiah 65:13 tells us, “the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind”!

.

The fact is, the former things won’t even exist any longer, as Revelation 21:4 reveals!

.

.

.

.

.

.

JUST WHAT ARE “THE FORMER THINGS”?

.

Yes, those former things are “passed away” as Revelation 21:4 reveals!

.

And just what, “former things are passed away”, as this above verse speaks of?

.

Well, for instance, just look at all these instruments of torture in the photo: torture devices once used upon Bible-believing Christians, in hopes of forcing their allegiance to the apostate church of that day.

.

But all such torment will be forever vanquished throughout eternity future!

.

.

.

.

.

.

TWO VERSES TAKEN OUT OF CONTEXT

.

**And one of the callers asked about this church doctrine, “Eternal Torment”…**

**And with these so-called “comforting” words, the caller said, “thank-you” and the next caller asked a different question.**

***THIS WORLD IS FORGOTTEN,* *BUT NOT OUR LOVED ONES!***

**Yes, those former things are “passed away” as Revelation 21:4 reveals!**

**And just what, “former things are passed away”, as this above verse speaks of?**

**And if these two passages were all we had to go on, then yes, “Eternal Torment” would seem to be the destiny for all the unbelievers, through the history of the world!**

***MANY VERSES SPEAK OF HELL* *AS “THE GRAVE”***