A consideration of the fall and it affected our interpersonal reactions
As a general point; sin led to us having to learn what was lost but also involves having to UNLEARN all that has blinded us since the Fall.
As I stated in the last post we all start out rather self focused; this in itself isn't necessarily TOTALLY due to the fall or necessarily wrong (we could look at Christ or John the Baptist as examples) but God calls some such as John the Baptist and Jeremiah from birth. What makes sin a vice is when someone learns how to pursue deliberate actions for the sole purpose of self satisfaction at the expense of others. No decent mother would tell a 2 year old they are being selfish for crying for food. To explain that it is your sin nature; and the whole concept of repentance is beyond their grasp until later on; although by nature kids manipulation is often well developed and parents tend to be led toward bargaining and then to the extreme of abusive rebuke as if they are an adult. Neither purpose is effective; of course.
The idea I'm proposing here is how would man have interacted with one another if they hadn't fallen? How would Adam and Eve and their children reacted?
Now that we're redeemed; in the same liine of thinking we should begin to think how we are part of a heavenly army.
Isaiah 13:4 says "Listen, a noise on the mountains, like that of a great multitude! Listen, an uproar among the kingdoms, like nations massing together! The LORD Almighty is mustering an army for war.
There are other verses such as Joel 2 and many Psalms that also deal with these concepts. Our future involves interactions with other heavenly Host (such as we see in Hebrews 11); as well as with those physical survivors of the Millennium. We will rule and reign over angels as well as we see in Hebrews 1:14 as well as judge them as 1 Corinthians states.
We have a glorious future. This world is not our home IF we are truly born from above.
All thy lovers have forgotten thee; they seek thee not; for I have wounded thee with the wound of an enemy, with the chastisement of a cruel one, for the multitude of thine iniquity; because thy sins were increased. ( Jeremiah 30:14).
And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay upon him that smote them; but shall stay upon the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. ( Isaiah 10:20).
Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword shall be upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened. ( Zech 11:17).
Let us be of those who heed the call; likely those in Israel before Antichrist comes into the Temple after the Rapture.
Isaiah 26:20 Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.
and again in Zephaniah 2:3 Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD'S anger.
Psalm 31:20 "Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues."
There will no doubt be many hidden in the earth; still a small portion of all humanity as most perish at that time. Again we see that God has His purposes: Two-thirds of all the nation of Israel will be cut off and die,[a] but a third will be left in the land. ( Zechariah 13:8); and man will be in general mors scarce than gold as to the few who survive ( Isaiah 13:12).
Today with the famine for the Word of God ( Amos 8:11) we undoubtably will have the literal famine; war and pestilence with the seal judgments or individual precursors very soon. Knowing these scriptures with a proper declaring of His promises is imperative; not worthless words
Rather than go into a lengthy discourse into the whole progression once again of Revelation which no doubt I have assayed to do in postings in the last couple years; I thought the topic at hand discussing what will be the inevitable rise of Antichrist whoever and whenever it comes to fruition as it intersects the end of the church age; and encompasses the judgment beginning at the house of God as our current danger ( 1 Peter 4:17) would be the primary focus.
Some have mentioned the Rapture itself as being a sort of judgment. The issue of whether the Rapture is for all believers or a reward for faithful ones tends to divide; but we can certainly say that some will be jarred to their senses; whether losing a child or infant in that event; or not knowing what happened to the other person. Certainly some will be aware that they missed out and thought they would be going and that could be the ultimate judgment finalizing the church age and forcing those left behind to be "Tribulation saints". In any event martyrdom will be the destiny for the vast majority of those in the Tribulation so to anyone listening don't be left behind. Up until now God has held everything back; the full economic collapse; and the famine and pestilence that will break out killing 1/4 of the earth at that time; likely the after effects of the war in the 2nd Seal Judgment. We need to keep in mind that appears to be before the Mark of the Beast which occurs at some point near the time 1/3 MORE of the earth is killed in the trumpet judgment #6. God says that man will be rarer than the gold of Ophir ( Isaiah 13:12). He says that the dead bodies will be from one corner of the earth to the other ( Jeremiah 25:33). Truly if He had not cut the days short no flesh would be saved ( Matt. 24:22).
Let us be sober minded and vigilant; and not put our hopes in the riches of this world as we can't take it with us. Let us redeem the time left. ( Eph. 5)
Isaiah 13:12 , who is this man that God will make ? Ezekiel 44:3 all the way through to Ezekiel 48:22 , who is this prince ? As I said previously , it's so frustrating but , we have to agree to disagree, Christ is God manifest in the flesh because he was not born through lust but by the power of God's Holy Spirit and was filled without measure , of God's Holy Spirit . At least I can assume that we can all agree on that . As God said at the burning bush , I will be who will be , I will manifest in whom I will manifest . Jesus is not the first manifestation of God , others received of God's Holy Spirit in measure , Christ received God Holy Spirit without measure , therefore Christ truly is that manifestation spoken of at the burning bush , Christ is Emmanuel , he says : he that has seen me has seen the Father , there's no arguement as to what scripture says , we all read the same Bible . Sadly it's the interpretation . We shall all know the Truth soon enough , looking at what is going on in the middle East it's going to be quite soon I think . Can't wait !
In the end; whether by man's weapons of warfare; or God's supernatural destruction using perhaps volcanoes and other natural events to bring about destruction by fire and hail and earthquakes man is rarer than the "gold of Ophir" ( Isaiah 13:17).
In light of current events it isn't entirely implausible that due to political correctness and the efforts for one world "peace" that nuclear weapons could be curbed and once again horses literally could be used in warfare; as is mentioned once again in Revelation 19 in Armageddon. It seems in this event that air and sea weaponry is either not used or very insignificant; particularly in referring to the crossing over of the Euphrates as being a prime event. Many nations don't have a very sophisticated or extensive airplane or ship capability today in that part of the world; and those that do probably will be wiped out in the earlier Ezekiel 38 campaign.
As I said in the outset; where we are now has no guarantees but prayer is something we should bring to worldwide events as well as to individual situations. No doubt judgment has been delayed because the Lord heard our cry and allowed us to intercede through the Spirit much as Moses did to avoid God wiping out everyone at the time and starting over again. The biggest thing to watch out for is what Thessalonians calls "peace and safety (or security). There has to be enough APPARENT progress made in that area to fool the world through Antichrist. This would probably involve overthrow of many if not all of today's worldwide political structures that have long failed to deliver or at least complete overhaul. The existing structure will never be trustworthy enough at this point to sway the masses toward this Beast; he must appear to give everyone what they want and make them think they have actually achieved their "humanitarian" humanistic utopia of total freedom. Ultimately God and Christ are made to be the enemy.
General admonitions related to prophecy and the end times
There is a tendency at the very least to discuss subjective individual experiences as to what is said to constitute a dream or vision of the Rapture or Tribulation; which may involve several different scenarios but often fails to expound scripturally on the big picture. It is much like the testimonies; real or imagined of heaven and hell which either cast doubt on assurance of salvation or show some landscape ruled by Satan or demons who are in control or perhaps emphasize punishment for specific sins while on earth but not addressing the sin nature as the real problem.
On the earth in the Tribulation; Satan is given his authority and power to rule for the last 3.5 years until Christ's return to earth.
What is often neglected is God's plan in all this to purge the nation of Israel as well as for a quick "fruit production" for those with white garments (i.e. those who are saved at the time) through martyrdom. As I stated in one of yesterday's posts; there tends to be emphasis on the torture of those being martyred as though any true believers will fail and fall away to take the mark. The primary execution is beheading according to the scripture at that time ( Rev. 20:4). This will; no doubt be swayed by those who want to offer the most "humane" method of killing. This in no way is meant to minimize the time worse than any time in human history but to point out that Satan's main goal all along is for worship; he just mows down any opposing him in the process. Believe what you want as a Mid or Post Tribber; to think we can somehow prepare or find a way to survive at that time is foolishness; God will save a remnant; as for the Gentiles "rarer than the gold of Ophir" ( Isaiah 13:12 with warnings in verse 17 that the gold and silver won't sustain anyone along with other similar scriptures in James).
The Tribulation is coming we can't stop God's plans. We must occupy therefore until He comes (Luke 1913
Thank you Jema for your reply. On the Isaiah 13:12 reference, we would find no agreement at all, as the verse, when understood naturally & in context refers to the scarcity of human life during those times of the LORD's intervention & destruction. If you are finding Jesus in there (i.e. "I will MAKE A MAN more precious than fine gold"), then that would have to be a personal discovery rather than a textual truth.
And likewise with Colossians 3:10, the text doesn't allow for such an interpretation (i.e. of God creating Jesus). Paul is writing about two 'persons': the new man (i.e. the human being renewed by the Spirit), and of God (Who creates in His (God's) Image). So, it doesn't speak of Jesus, but of man who was once created in God's Image (Adam), & then after the fall, that image was marred, which necessitated a re-creation of that image in man. And to do this, man had to be changed inwardly (becoming a 'new man'), who now is being "renewed in knowledge" into the image of the One (God) Who created him (man). Yes, we do have 2 Corinthians 4:4 & Colossians 1:15 to support your use of 'image' as to Christ's 'creation', but we also have Genesis 1:27 & 1 Corinthians 11:7 to support man being made in God's Image. But to put Christ in Colossians 3:10 would violate the point of that verse which is directed to man's renewal.
Lastly, you wrote that you "don't really relish the idea of a big debate". That puzzled me since you initiated those questions for our responses. If we gave responses without 'debate/discussion', then the whole exercise would be entirely fruitless & pointless. So maybe you just wanted to share your understanding of those verses, but not willing to defend your beliefs; and these matters (of Christ's Divinity, eternal judgement, etc.) are vital to Christians & also in the preaching of the Gospel. Without these fundamentals, we have no Gospel - we have no message of liberty & hope to share with a lost world.
Ok Jema, I will venture to answer your two questions as simply as I can.
a. Isaiah 13:12: "I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir." As you no doubt have read through Isaiah & now here from chapter 13, Isaiah prophesies against various nations (chapters 13 to 23). Here in chapter 13, it is against Babylon, where the promise is that God will call His 'separated' ones, His 'mighty' ones to "destroy the whole land"; and this happened when the Medes/Persians overthrew Babylon in 539 BC (also in Daniel 5:30,31). This army came from a far country (over 500 miles east of Babylon). As in the destruction of Babylon, so will it be in the Day of the LORD where the intensity of the destruction is described in Revelation 6:12,13. In both scenarios, the loss of mankind will be so great, God says, "I will make man more precious than fine gold...". This verse speaks of the scarcity of men (including women), that to find even one during those days (of Babylon's destruction & the Lord's coming vengeance) would be of greater discovery & value than finding gold.
b. Colossians 3:10: "And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." I think your question is centered on the last part of this verse. The apostle had just written about 'putting off the old man with his deeds'. But having 'put it off', we must now "put on the new man". The two cannot happily co-exist - it's one or tother before God. And this activity is not a one time act - it is on-going. Here, this renewing is through knowledge (see Ephesians 4:24, where God creates this new man "in righteousness and true holiness"). As we grow in knowledge of God & His blessed Son, we become more like Him (His Image), just as ADAM was CREATED in God's Image. After the fall, that Image was severely marred. But "in Christ" & the Spirit's Work in us, that Image is being gradually restored - if we let His Work continue in us.
Hello friend. I am in agreement with what Adam has just shared with you: that the mention of Mohd or even an allusion to him is nowhere found in this verse, or indeed anywhere in the Bible.
You appear to be someone who is interested in what the Bible has to say to us, even considering the rich heritage that both the descendants of Isaac & Ishmael share from the olden days. In your consideration of this prophetical Book of Isaiah, we need to remember that this book & indeed all the Bible Books are written in an historical & chronological manner. Unlike the Qur'an, where the writings are purportedly made from isolated revelations received over a period of time, the Books of the Bible were written by men moved by God's Spirit ( 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21), but were given in a systematic historical way. So when we take a verse or portion of the Bible to teach or defend a belief, then we must look at the whole - or else, our understanding will be skewed & we will be led into error.
Since you're looking at the prophecies in Isaiah, if you would care to begin at Isaiah 13:1 right through to Isaiah 23:18, and you will notice a series of denunciations by God against particular lands/nations. Through his prophet Isaiah, God denounces Babylon, Philistia, Moab, Damascus, Ethopia, Egypt, Babylon (again), Edom, Arabia (the part you're referring to), Jerusalem, & Tyre. So when you refer to Isaiah 21:13, the specific passage is from Isaiah 21:13-17, where God's Judgement is found in verse 16, that "within a year, according to the years of an hireling, and all the glory of Kedar shall fail". Even though Kedar was a powerful Arabian tribe, the reference here are to all connected to her. All these suffered judgement under God's Hand.
But at the appointed time, God sent forth His Son Jesus, the One Who came to receive our judgement & punishment upon Himself (for our sins). Without Him we would all be condemned, but those who believed on Him would receive forgiveness ( John 1:11,12).
Verse 1 states "In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness." This corresponds with the healing waters from the Temple in Ezekiel 47 as well as Revelation 20 for the nations of the world.
Verses 2 through 5 discuss the end of false prophets; even the death of a family member who prophesies lies. Verse 6 seems to also be a prophesy of Christ as well as a warning of how when the Lord returns there is no more toleration from anyone closely associated with a false prophet.
Verse 7 is clearly a prophesy of Christ as cross referenced in Matthew 26:31 since Christ quoted it.
Verse 8 and 9 discuss a subject I've mentioned previously in the posts on Zechariah; on the third that make it through the Tribulation. It should be noted that God hears them. I have also noted for those who think this is cruel as to the interpretation; that mankind will be rarer than gold overall when the Day of Judgment comes. ( Isaiah 13:12). Truly; the cost of rejecting their Messiah and many centuries of rebellion has cost Israel dearly as to blessings they could have had. Nonetheless, they are once again established in their homeland and they will never completely be annihilated there despite the gathering of all nations against them in the last days.
May we be faithful as we pray for our nation's leadership and their need for a relationship with our LORD JESUS CHRIST. 1 Timothy 2:9. Let us not faint or be weak; but may we go forward and reach the lost. May we be not weary of well doing, but be strong through HIS word and promises.
We must be about the work of the LORD, making disciples as we called to do in Matthew 28: 18-20.
As GOD is not willing that anyone should perish, 1 Peter 3:9, we must be encouraged and plant the seed, water where we can so that the LORD GOD will give the increase. 1 Corinthians 3:6
The time is at hand where all saints are called to duty and reach out, pray up, and tell to all the salvation available in the gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. Romans 10: 9-12; Acts 4:10-12.
GOD bless all on this platform and praise the LORD on this Resurrection Sunday, 2023. GOD to shine HIS face on all, and be gracious as we await HIS coming.
Continuing with just a few of the Day of the Lord verses.
Zephaniah 1:15
Isaiah 13:9
Lamentations 2:1
Isaiah 13:13
Isaiah 51:22
Jeremiah 25:15
Revelation 16:19
Revelation 14:10
Revelation 16:1
Isaiah 63:1-6.
This is what Paul is telling them is not at hand. This is what we all agree on besides a few that the Church will not see.
However some see the Rapture in Revelation 20:4-6 sadly mistaking it for the Resurrection.
That would place the Church on the Earth during the wrath of the Lord that comes upon all the Earth.
When we take 2 Thessalonians 2:3
"Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, AND THAT MAN OF SIN BE REVEALED, the son of perdition;
Paul gives them the sequence of events in chronological order of what happens "AFTER" that what he reminded them of previously in
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.
That's why he opens up saying "Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by "OUR" gathering together unto him," 2 Thessalonians 2:1.
Paul included them and himself in this gathering! So did they see the son of perdition? No.
We take 2 Thessalonians 2:3 with the following scriptures to pitch our viewpoint. 2 Thessalonians 2:6-15.
The son of perdition can't come while the light bearers is in the world. The Church! Who sits in the midst of the Church? Christ/His Holyspirit.
Galatians 3:7 certainly could be an answer to your question. It isn't merely the physical descendants of Abraham who are true children of God ( Romans 9:7-10). God has a remnant that He saves from both the Old and New Dispensations ( 1 Kings 19); Matthew 7:21).
Keep in mind also the difference between physically being preserved for a time and spiritual deliverance. These are both realities for the children of God in reverse order. In New Testament times as with Old many are called but few chosen ( Matt. 22:14). There are other verses showing how some experience some of the benefits of being in God's presence ( Hebrews 6:4) are still not ultimately saved. The parable of the sower and the seed illustrate this fact showing how the seed of truth must eventually not only take root but produce fruit. God enables that His Spirit reproduces good fruit in our lives as evidence that it is indwelling; not merely an external event. Hence all true believers are "sealed" until the Day of Redemption ( Ephesians 4:30).
In God's Providence there are some; such as the 1/3 that are preserved "going through the fire" ( Zechariah 13:9) who appear to make it physically through the Tribulation to repopulate the earth in the Millennium. That will include the handful of Gentiles that make it; although man is said in general to be "rarer than the gold of Ophir" who makes it through that way ( Isaiah 13:12).
Thus; these verses and a multitude of others makes it imperative that we "test ourselves to see if we are in the faith". ( 2 Corinthians 13:5). I personally believe that through God's sanctification process we all must get beyond our initial excitement over being a new believer as well as the trials of persecution AND temptations of the world to be "tested and approved" as true believers as part of the process of chastisement as God's adopted children. ( Romans 12:2; etc). The end of all those called and chosen in Him is glorification (read all of Romans 8:30).
Do you have any notes compiled about the period Israel breaks the covenant, regarding David's throne? I happens at the day of the Lord, Joel 2:1-11, and ends with Christ claiming the throne. The underlying issue is did God suspend a binding arrangement, or was it unconditional that David would never lack a man on his throne, 1 kings 9:5, Jeremiah 33:17. Does the man of sin have dominion over David's throne?
Didn't you mentioned this a few days ago? Could you do a breakdown of it? I found verses like Isaiah 24:15, Isaiah 13:11 compelling, any insight? Thanks.
Prophesy is unfolding rapidly, it never stopped and can be identified. Acquaint yourself with the prophets, what Jesus says in Matthew 24 and Luke 17. The prophets were shown our future, and this coming sixth trumpet, day of the Lord, scared them deeply, Ezekiel 21:7, Isaiah 13:8-9.
Christian's aren't scared because they weren't taught the proper tenants of the Bible, they think God will unconditionally protect them, no matter how badly their elected leaders behave. Will America will always sit a queen? Isaiah 47:7-11
The Bible is limited in its 1-4 trumpet descriptions. It is the last 3 end-time trumpets, 5, 6 & 7, that matter for this "last generation" (according to the signs). Half of Revelation 9 is dedicated to the fifth trumpet, the other half to the sixth trumpet. The sixth trumpet army smashes the fifth trumpet army to dust!!! Esau smashes Jacob, Obadiah 1. The king of the north smashes the king of the south, Daniel 11:40. The sixth trumpet is about one third of end-time prophesy; there's much written about it, enough for you to see prophesy unfolding in our time. Not many see what they read, let alone admit God is against backsliding America, Ezekiel 21:12.
Here's a big prophesy come to light in our time, but I don't expect it to fit in someone else's narrative:
Revelation 9:1-11 was 9-11-01, America is the fifth trumpet army, running a 20 year war on terror.
Revelation 9:4 America killed those men who did not have the seal of God in their foreheads (Muslims), and were told not to harm any green tree, and nothing green grows in the desert.
Revelation 9:6 The Muslims who were tortured at Abu Ghraib prison were seeking death, and couldn't find it.
"The Day of the Lord " 1Thessalonians 4:13-18, Matthew 24, Mark 13, Isaiah 2:12, Isaiah 13:6-13, Ezekiel 30:3, Joel 1, Joel 2, Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah 1:15, Zephaniah 1, Zechariah 14:1, Malachi 4:5, Acts 2:20, 1Thessalonians 5:2, 2Peter 3, Revelation 10, notice Revelation 10:7, Revelation 11:18,19,
This chapter; like all scriptures should be taken as a literal prophetic event unless certain things are clearly symbolic. In this case everything is given a literal time frame and sequence; with supporting details not only in this chapter and the rest of Revelation; but other books including the Old Testament in scripture.
We can argue what we may about a Post Millennium mindset and agree to disagree if we have a basic belief in Christ's PHYSICAL return to earth in the future (something which FULL preterists seem to think has already occurred but in some mystical fashion). That would be the only case where we should disfellowship; and I and another brother in the Lord were forced to do that a few years ago. Something else which I consider very dangerous is the mindset that Satan is already bound in the bottomless pit. This is notwithstanding all the promises of the church that the powers of darkness will have no affect on us. There is certainly no limitation on killing the saints of God which Satan will do and continue to do until his punishment is enacted (at the end of the Tribulation and the end of the battle after he is released after the 1000 years). The general statement that a time worse than any that has ever happened or will ever exist again ( Matt. 24:21) with all the percentages of deaths listed in Revelation certainly has not occurred yet. We need to examine other scriptures such as Isaiah 14:17; Isaiah 41:5-13 on the coastlands burning; Isaiah 13:12 on man being rarer than the "gold of Ophir"; Isaiah 30:28 about the nations being put into the seive of destruction; Zechariah 12:9 on all nations gathered and half of Jerusalem taken and numerous other prophetic passages to see that indeed Armageddon must occur. Other verses talk of clear descriptions of mortal man still capable of sinning on the earth in the Millennium such as Zechariah 14:17-18; and Isaiah 65:20-25 being two of the clearest examples.
Concluding thoughts on seventh vial in Revelation 16
We see here; in the seventh vial judgment a great hail coming down on the earth which fits into the scenario of the Ezekiel 38 war. This is tied in with the greatest earthquake ever in verse 18; and Babylon the Great to be judged; the "great city" whatever that is-possibly Jerusalem being split in three pieces and all the cities of the nations falling.
Matthew 24:26-28 states that where the carcasses are the eagles (or similar birds of prey) are gathered. This would indeed; make it seem that those taken were taken for judgment and in Revelation about half are taken out that are listed in the one fourth dying in the first four seals; and another third in the Trumpet judgments. We can look at the tale of the ten virgins in a similar light. It would seem indicative of this being representative of God's church as they were all "virgins"; but clearly those who Christ stated "I know you not" or "I never knew you depart from me you workers of iniquity" ( Matt. 7:23) never were believers. There are difficult passages which could just be allegorical warnings; as well as different scenarios (such as that of the servant who hid his talent); in Luke 19 and lost his reward; contrasted with the version in Matthew 25 where he was "cast into outer darkness" which sounds like hell; but it could be into the Tribulation as well! The virgins who went out to buy oil seems to be at least a possible hint that in order to have more "oil of the Spirit" they had to buy gold refined in the fire such as in Revelation 3:18 which again COULD represent works through the "fires" of the Tribulation.
Basically; these are eschatological issues. What we can b certain of is that FAR less than half of ANY population will be raptured.
Even if we take at face value the Rapture as a salvation and not a reward issue; Christ made it clear that FEW are saved. There is always a believing remnant among those confessing faith; in the O.T. as well as the New. Thus; the passage in question sounds more like God taking half out for judgment; but even that is in question as only FEW will live through the whole event (one third of Israel ( Zech 13:7-9). and those of the Gentiles will be rarer than the "gold of Ophir" ( Isaiah 13:12 on how few remain in the Day of the Lord). This verse could speak of Israel's casualties, SPECIFICALLY.
As I read God's word, and He points out Babylon the great, and how sudden destruction will come upon her.
"Babylon the great has fallen has fallen.." Rev. 18:2. In fact, the whole of chapter 18 appears to describe the United States!
I pray people will wake up, and take His word as it is written. As I talk with many "born again" Christian's, I find that many are thinking they do not have to worry about what's coming upon the earth, because God is going to "rapture" them out of harms way. That is NOT what God's word says! 2 Timothy says, " Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution".
What makes us so special that God is going to snatch us up and away from trouble? Did he not protect Daniel while in the lions den. His word shows us that He'll protect us as we go through tribulations. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Many Christians are saying that God is "doing a new thing. Really .? God's word doesn't change to fit one's own narrative. Look what's happening in our country. The Biden democrat/Marxist party is destroying everything good about our nation, and filling influential positions with godless people who hate our country, while at the same time claiming to be good Christians. I correct myself such that Biden and Pelosi claim to be good Catholics, which opens up another ungodly can of worms. I pray God gives us eyes to see and ears to hear during these corrupt and evil times. Thanks you for reading this post.
JEREMIAH 50. There has been much contention as to the national depiction of the final Babylon; and whether it is in the Middle East; it signifies the USA or perhaps the EU. There is a spiritual side and economic leadership aspect to it as well. Certainly; we here in the good ol USA have sins piled high to heaven as Revelation states. In some sense; it doesn't matter as man will be as Isaiah 13:12 states "rarer than the gold of Ophir". Dead men; i.e. corpses will be covering the earth ( Jeremiah 25:33).
There is no doubt that we are heading to one world government and religion; and I doubt that I need to include proof here.
Even in utter destruction where no man will inhabit the land; God in His providence provides a place for unclean animals ( Isaiah 34:11). Such is the case also with the "feast" of Armageddon. The birds of the air are summoned; and no doubt hungry after the Tribulation. ( Rev. 19:18; 21). So in essense we either attend a great supper or we ARE the meal; for a large portion of men in those days.
There are many good books on the subject. Alexander Hislop wrote "Two Babylons" which gives some context for these concepts. There are more recent writings where a strong argument based on many verses in Jeremiah seem to point to the USA being referenced in a veiled manner. The main points would be a nation founded on the truth yet with an occult bend from it's origin; a melting pot of many nations divided by many rivers and surrounded by many oceans; the port Babylon in NYC (where the Statue of Liberty kind of represents the lady in Revelation and the great city destroyed the world mourns after; etc.)
There are also compelling arguments of the Arabia area today where the 3 Monotheistic religions are planning joint worship and a city 30 times larger than NYC with drones prevailing are upcoming the next few years. Whatever the case; our hearts are not to be in the world where things are perishing but in the unseen treasures of God.
I appreciate your knowledge, here. Jesus also comes symbolically at the 6th trumpet, day of the Lord, the day named after Him. Jesus comes like a thief to lay the land desolate (both houses of Israel).
Jesus participates at the falling away in Spirit:
Isaiah 13:5 They come from a far country, from the end of heaven, [even the LORD], and the weapons of his indignation, to destroy the whole land.
Luke 12:40 Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not, 6th trumpet.
Isaiah 13:6 Howl ye; for the day of the LORD is at hand; it shall come as a destruction from the Almighty, 6th trumpet.
Joel 2:9 Jesus comes in at the windows "like a thief" at the day of the Lord.
God even calls the beast army, "His army", and praises anti-christ's might, Joel 2:11
Everything Jesus warns us about is facilitated through anti-christ's scriptural actions against us. Jesus warns us of a surprise attack, a sudden strike, then we find out that that's what anti-christ is preparing for a year, month, day and hour. Jeremiah 15:6-9 "I have caused him to fall upon it suddenly, and terrors upon the city".
As a cautionary note about the day of the Lord and America:
Ezekiel 22:30 And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.
Isaiah 13 showcases the day of the Lord attack as the letter lets it happen to us; flames on faces, oblivious to where it comes from. If you think today is bad, wait till you see what's coming.
Scripture gives us much information about what will occur during the end times. Look up what Jesus says about it in Matt. 24; Mk. 13. Lk. 19. There are a large numbers of prophetic verses about the end times in the OT and NT, especially in Revelation.
For me, I study the Scriptures to learn what is said there about the end times. I heed the words of Jesus for us to be know the signs of the time, be watchful, ready, waiting, looking for Him, prayerful, and to have faith that endures to the end. I stay abreast of what happens in our world to see if there are things happening that may be fulfilling what Jesus said or other prophecies. But even more so, I chose to live godly life in this wicked age and to set Christ aside in my heart so as to be ready to give an answer to any who inquire about the hope I have within me, which is Jesus Christ, our hope of glory.
We still need to continue to work and provide for ourselves and our families even if it should prove that we are in the end times. We are to continue to do (while it is still day) the work God has tasked us to do for the kingdom until He returns. We are to continue in doing good to others, worshipping with other believers, engage in our sphere of influence, care for those in need in our communities according to our abilities, and everything we would normally do if it didn't seem like the end times.
Right now, our world is in a precarious position as it has been in the past century with two world wars and other regional conflicts. We have had prosperity in past decades but now with covid effects and inflation rising, our economic situation is unsettling. With weather events such as recent tornadoes and hurricanes along with other catastrophes like earthquakes, drought, famine it seems that our world is in a spiral. But that does not mean equivocally that we are in the end times, as history shows that humanity has gone through great tribulations before. But it doesn't mean we are NOT in the end time
The Time of the End Unfolding Now-Mishael - In Reply on Isaiah 13 - 4 years ago
It's not going to return to normal. Right now we need to gather knowledge of what's coming so we can be wise and be ready for anything.
Those who will be most prepared, will make Jesus their leader and Lord now. Information in the Bible has been available for 2,000 years.
Father God has had an end of time program in place for all these years. 2 Peter 3. That explains what people call "global warming."
Political people are attempting to stop Gods plans for the end of time. Time (ticking of the clock) began over 6,000 years ago. There are "thought leaders: Bill Gates, Zuckerberg, Obama, are trying to convince people that human beings can STOP God's known Will for the future of Earth. We will have a future, but we must choose Jesus NOW. He wants to save us and give us a home in the future.
Thought leaders cannot stop God. Their plans for all mankind leads to slavery to their ideas on how to save the earth; which will not prevail.
God created all we see and know. He loves us!! He gave Jesus to rescue only those who place their future in his hands. EVERYBODY is invited to place their futures into The Father and the Son's hands. Faith is not really blind. God gifted us the ability to choose our futures: what we would have or have not. Choose evil or good (God).
God knew mankind would choose leaders that would take us straight to hell: depending on them instead of God. TIME is ticking down to the end. Now we see the prophesies of the END appearing. Thought leaders cannot kill God, so they will kill His creation and the people who live in it. Technology who will create a WORLDWIDE Bank will be the way they do it. They will force us to renounce God to get at our money.
The only way to survive this is to put your faith, solidly, in Jesus now. Find the BECOME A BELIEVER link and secure your future. Return here for encouragement. Beloved, read the Bible and grow your Faith, every day.
As a general point; sin led to us having to learn what was lost but also involves having to UNLEARN all that has blinded us since the Fall.
As I stated in the last post we all start out rather self focused; this in itself isn't necessarily TOTALLY due to the fall or necessarily wrong (we could look at Christ or John the Baptist as examples) but God calls some such as John the Baptist and Jeremiah from birth. What makes sin a vice is when someone learns how to pursue deliberate actions for the sole purpose of self satisfaction at the expense of others. No decent mother would tell a 2 year old they are being selfish for crying for food. To explain that it is your sin nature; and the whole concept of repentance is beyond their grasp until later on; although by nature kids manipulation is often well developed and parents tend to be led toward bargaining and then to the extreme of abusive rebuke as if they are an adult. Neither purpose is effective; of course.
The idea I'm proposing here is how would man have interacted with one another if they hadn't fallen? How would Adam and Eve and their children reacted?
Now that we're redeemed; in the same liine of thinking we should begin to think how we are part of a heavenly army.
Isaiah 13:4 says "Listen, a noise on the mountains, like that of a great multitude! Listen, an uproar among the kingdoms, like nations massing together! The LORD Almighty is mustering an army for war.
There are other verses such as Joel 2 and many Psalms that also deal with these concepts. Our future involves interactions with other heavenly Host (such as we see in Hebrews 11); as well as with those physical survivors of the Millennium. We will rule and reign over angels as well as we see in Hebrews 1:14 as well as judge them as 1 Corinthians states.
We have a glorious future. This world is not our home IF we are truly born from above.
Maranatha. RP
And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay upon him that smote them; but shall stay upon the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. ( Isaiah 10:20).
Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword shall be upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened. ( Zech 11:17).
Let us be of those who heed the call; likely those in Israel before Antichrist comes into the Temple after the Rapture.
Isaiah 26:20 Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.
and again in Zephaniah 2:3 Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD'S anger.
Psalm 31:20 "Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues."
There will no doubt be many hidden in the earth; still a small portion of all humanity as most perish at that time. Again we see that God has His purposes: Two-thirds of all the nation of Israel will be cut off and die,[a] but a third will be left in the land. ( Zechariah 13:8); and man will be in general mors scarce than gold as to the few who survive ( Isaiah 13:12).
Today with the famine for the Word of God ( Amos 8:11) we undoubtably will have the literal famine; war and pestilence with the seal judgments or individual precursors very soon. Knowing these scriptures with a proper declaring of His promises is imperative; not worthless words
Rather than go into a lengthy discourse into the whole progression once again of Revelation which no doubt I have assayed to do in postings in the last couple years; I thought the topic at hand discussing what will be the inevitable rise of Antichrist whoever and whenever it comes to fruition as it intersects the end of the church age; and encompasses the judgment beginning at the house of God as our current danger ( 1 Peter 4:17) would be the primary focus.
Some have mentioned the Rapture itself as being a sort of judgment. The issue of whether the Rapture is for all believers or a reward for faithful ones tends to divide; but we can certainly say that some will be jarred to their senses; whether losing a child or infant in that event; or not knowing what happened to the other person. Certainly some will be aware that they missed out and thought they would be going and that could be the ultimate judgment finalizing the church age and forcing those left behind to be "Tribulation saints". In any event martyrdom will be the destiny for the vast majority of those in the Tribulation so to anyone listening don't be left behind. Up until now God has held everything back; the full economic collapse; and the famine and pestilence that will break out killing 1/4 of the earth at that time; likely the after effects of the war in the 2nd Seal Judgment. We need to keep in mind that appears to be before the Mark of the Beast which occurs at some point near the time 1/3 MORE of the earth is killed in the trumpet judgment #6. God says that man will be rarer than the gold of Ophir ( Isaiah 13:12). He says that the dead bodies will be from one corner of the earth to the other ( Jeremiah 25:33). Truly if He had not cut the days short no flesh would be saved ( Matt. 24:22).
Let us be sober minded and vigilant; and not put our hopes in the riches of this world as we can't take it with us. Let us redeem the time left. ( Eph. 5)
In the end; whether by man's weapons of warfare; or God's supernatural destruction using perhaps volcanoes and other natural events to bring about destruction by fire and hail and earthquakes man is rarer than the "gold of Ophir" ( Isaiah 13:17).
In light of current events it isn't entirely implausible that due to political correctness and the efforts for one world "peace" that nuclear weapons could be curbed and once again horses literally could be used in warfare; as is mentioned once again in Revelation 19 in Armageddon. It seems in this event that air and sea weaponry is either not used or very insignificant; particularly in referring to the crossing over of the Euphrates as being a prime event. Many nations don't have a very sophisticated or extensive airplane or ship capability today in that part of the world; and those that do probably will be wiped out in the earlier Ezekiel 38 campaign.
As I said in the outset; where we are now has no guarantees but prayer is something we should bring to worldwide events as well as to individual situations. No doubt judgment has been delayed because the Lord heard our cry and allowed us to intercede through the Spirit much as Moses did to avoid God wiping out everyone at the time and starting over again. The biggest thing to watch out for is what Thessalonians calls "peace and safety (or security). There has to be enough APPARENT progress made in that area to fool the world through Antichrist. This would probably involve overthrow of many if not all of today's worldwide political structures that have long failed to deliver or at least complete overhaul. The existing structure will never be trustworthy enough at this point to sway the masses toward this Beast; he must appear to give everyone what they want and make them think they have actually achieved their "humanitarian" humanistic utopia of total freedom. Ultimately God and Christ are made to be the enemy.
There is a tendency at the very least to discuss subjective individual experiences as to what is said to constitute a dream or vision of the Rapture or Tribulation; which may involve several different scenarios but often fails to expound scripturally on the big picture. It is much like the testimonies; real or imagined of heaven and hell which either cast doubt on assurance of salvation or show some landscape ruled by Satan or demons who are in control or perhaps emphasize punishment for specific sins while on earth but not addressing the sin nature as the real problem.
On the earth in the Tribulation; Satan is given his authority and power to rule for the last 3.5 years until Christ's return to earth.
What is often neglected is God's plan in all this to purge the nation of Israel as well as for a quick "fruit production" for those with white garments (i.e. those who are saved at the time) through martyrdom. As I stated in one of yesterday's posts; there tends to be emphasis on the torture of those being martyred as though any true believers will fail and fall away to take the mark. The primary execution is beheading according to the scripture at that time ( Rev. 20:4). This will; no doubt be swayed by those who want to offer the most "humane" method of killing. This in no way is meant to minimize the time worse than any time in human history but to point out that Satan's main goal all along is for worship; he just mows down any opposing him in the process. Believe what you want as a Mid or Post Tribber; to think we can somehow prepare or find a way to survive at that time is foolishness; God will save a remnant; as for the Gentiles "rarer than the gold of Ophir" ( Isaiah 13:12 with warnings in verse 17 that the gold and silver won't sustain anyone along with other similar scriptures in James).
The Tribulation is coming we can't stop God's plans. We must occupy therefore until He comes (Luke 1913
And likewise with Colossians 3:10, the text doesn't allow for such an interpretation (i.e. of God creating Jesus). Paul is writing about two 'persons': the new man (i.e. the human being renewed by the Spirit), and of God (Who creates in His (God's) Image). So, it doesn't speak of Jesus, but of man who was once created in God's Image (Adam), & then after the fall, that image was marred, which necessitated a re-creation of that image in man. And to do this, man had to be changed inwardly (becoming a 'new man'), who now is being "renewed in knowledge" into the image of the One (God) Who created him (man). Yes, we do have 2 Corinthians 4:4 & Colossians 1:15 to support your use of 'image' as to Christ's 'creation', but we also have Genesis 1:27 & 1 Corinthians 11:7 to support man being made in God's Image. But to put Christ in Colossians 3:10 would violate the point of that verse which is directed to man's renewal.
Lastly, you wrote that you "don't really relish the idea of a big debate". That puzzled me since you initiated those questions for our responses. If we gave responses without 'debate/discussion', then the whole exercise would be entirely fruitless & pointless. So maybe you just wanted to share your understanding of those verses, but not willing to defend your beliefs; and these matters (of Christ's Divinity, eternal judgement, etc.) are vital to Christians & also in the preaching of the Gospel. Without these fundamentals, we have no Gospel - we have no message of liberty & hope to share with a lost world.
a. Isaiah 13:12: "I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir." As you no doubt have read through Isaiah & now here from chapter 13, Isaiah prophesies against various nations (chapters 13 to 23). Here in chapter 13, it is against Babylon, where the promise is that God will call His 'separated' ones, His 'mighty' ones to "destroy the whole land"; and this happened when the Medes/Persians overthrew Babylon in 539 BC (also in Daniel 5:30,31). This army came from a far country (over 500 miles east of Babylon). As in the destruction of Babylon, so will it be in the Day of the LORD where the intensity of the destruction is described in Revelation 6:12,13. In both scenarios, the loss of mankind will be so great, God says, "I will make man more precious than fine gold...". This verse speaks of the scarcity of men (including women), that to find even one during those days (of Babylon's destruction & the Lord's coming vengeance) would be of greater discovery & value than finding gold.
b. Colossians 3:10: "And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." I think your question is centered on the last part of this verse. The apostle had just written about 'putting off the old man with his deeds'. But having 'put it off', we must now "put on the new man". The two cannot happily co-exist - it's one or tother before God. And this activity is not a one time act - it is on-going. Here, this renewing is through knowledge (see Ephesians 4:24, where God creates this new man "in righteousness and true holiness"). As we grow in knowledge of God & His blessed Son, we become more like Him (His Image), just as ADAM was CREATED in God's Image. After the fall, that Image was severely marred. But "in Christ" & the Spirit's Work in us, that Image is being gradually restored - if we let His Work continue in us.
You appear to be someone who is interested in what the Bible has to say to us, even considering the rich heritage that both the descendants of Isaac & Ishmael share from the olden days. In your consideration of this prophetical Book of Isaiah, we need to remember that this book & indeed all the Bible Books are written in an historical & chronological manner. Unlike the Qur'an, where the writings are purportedly made from isolated revelations received over a period of time, the Books of the Bible were written by men moved by God's Spirit ( 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21), but were given in a systematic historical way. So when we take a verse or portion of the Bible to teach or defend a belief, then we must look at the whole - or else, our understanding will be skewed & we will be led into error.
Since you're looking at the prophecies in Isaiah, if you would care to begin at Isaiah 13:1 right through to Isaiah 23:18, and you will notice a series of denunciations by God against particular lands/nations. Through his prophet Isaiah, God denounces Babylon, Philistia, Moab, Damascus, Ethopia, Egypt, Babylon (again), Edom, Arabia (the part you're referring to), Jerusalem, & Tyre. So when you refer to Isaiah 21:13, the specific passage is from Isaiah 21:13-17, where God's Judgement is found in verse 16, that "within a year, according to the years of an hireling, and all the glory of Kedar shall fail". Even though Kedar was a powerful Arabian tribe, the reference here are to all connected to her. All these suffered judgement under God's Hand.
But at the appointed time, God sent forth His Son Jesus, the One Who came to receive our judgement & punishment upon Himself (for our sins). Without Him we would all be condemned, but those who believed on Him would receive forgiveness ( John 1:11,12).
Verse 1 states "In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness." This corresponds with the healing waters from the Temple in Ezekiel 47 as well as Revelation 20 for the nations of the world.
Verses 2 through 5 discuss the end of false prophets; even the death of a family member who prophesies lies. Verse 6 seems to also be a prophesy of Christ as well as a warning of how when the Lord returns there is no more toleration from anyone closely associated with a false prophet.
Verse 7 is clearly a prophesy of Christ as cross referenced in Matthew 26:31 since Christ quoted it.
Verse 8 and 9 discuss a subject I've mentioned previously in the posts on Zechariah; on the third that make it through the Tribulation. It should be noted that God hears them. I have also noted for those who think this is cruel as to the interpretation; that mankind will be rarer than gold overall when the Day of Judgment comes. ( Isaiah 13:12). Truly; the cost of rejecting their Messiah and many centuries of rebellion has cost Israel dearly as to blessings they could have had. Nonetheless, they are once again established in their homeland and they will never completely be annihilated there despite the gathering of all nations against them in the last days.
We must be about the work of the LORD, making disciples as we called to do in Matthew 28: 18-20.
As GOD is not willing that anyone should perish, 1 Peter 3:9, we must be encouraged and plant the seed, water where we can so that the LORD GOD will give the increase. 1 Corinthians 3:6
The time is at hand where all saints are called to duty and reach out, pray up, and tell to all the salvation available in the gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. Romans 10: 9-12; Acts 4:10-12.
GOD bless all on this platform and praise the LORD on this Resurrection Sunday, 2023. GOD to shine HIS face on all, and be gracious as we await HIS coming.
Part 2.
Continuing with just a few of the Day of the Lord verses.
Zephaniah 1:15
Isaiah 13:9
Lamentations 2:1
Isaiah 13:13
Isaiah 51:22
Jeremiah 25:15
Revelation 16:19
Revelation 14:10
Revelation 16:1
Isaiah 63:1-6.
This is what Paul is telling them is not at hand. This is what we all agree on besides a few that the Church will not see.
However some see the Rapture in Revelation 20:4-6 sadly mistaking it for the Resurrection.
That would place the Church on the Earth during the wrath of the Lord that comes upon all the Earth.
When we take 2 Thessalonians 2:3
"Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, AND THAT MAN OF SIN BE REVEALED, the son of perdition;
Paul gives them the sequence of events in chronological order of what happens "AFTER" that what he reminded them of previously in
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.
That's why he opens up saying "Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by "OUR" gathering together unto him," 2 Thessalonians 2:1.
Paul included them and himself in this gathering! So did they see the son of perdition? No.
We take 2 Thessalonians 2:3 with the following scriptures to pitch our viewpoint. 2 Thessalonians 2:6-15.
The son of perdition can't come while the light bearers is in the world. The Church! Who sits in the midst of the Church? Christ/His Holyspirit.
2 Thessalonians 2:6-8.
God bless.
Keep in mind also the difference between physically being preserved for a time and spiritual deliverance. These are both realities for the children of God in reverse order. In New Testament times as with Old many are called but few chosen ( Matt. 22:14). There are other verses showing how some experience some of the benefits of being in God's presence ( Hebrews 6:4) are still not ultimately saved. The parable of the sower and the seed illustrate this fact showing how the seed of truth must eventually not only take root but produce fruit. God enables that His Spirit reproduces good fruit in our lives as evidence that it is indwelling; not merely an external event. Hence all true believers are "sealed" until the Day of Redemption ( Ephesians 4:30).
In God's Providence there are some; such as the 1/3 that are preserved "going through the fire" ( Zechariah 13:9) who appear to make it physically through the Tribulation to repopulate the earth in the Millennium. That will include the handful of Gentiles that make it; although man is said in general to be "rarer than the gold of Ophir" who makes it through that way ( Isaiah 13:12).
Thus; these verses and a multitude of others makes it imperative that we "test ourselves to see if we are in the faith". ( 2 Corinthians 13:5). I personally believe that through God's sanctification process we all must get beyond our initial excitement over being a new believer as well as the trials of persecution AND temptations of the world to be "tested and approved" as true believers as part of the process of chastisement as God's adopted children. ( Romans 12:2; etc). The end of all those called and chosen in Him is glorification (read all of Romans 8:30).
Hope this helps.
Isaiah 2:1, Isaiah 13:1,
Hopefully these are helpful
Do you have any notes compiled about the period Israel breaks the covenant, regarding David's throne? I happens at the day of the Lord, Joel 2:1-11, and ends with Christ claiming the throne. The underlying issue is did God suspend a binding arrangement, or was it unconditional that David would never lack a man on his throne, 1 kings 9:5, Jeremiah 33:17. Does the man of sin have dominion over David's throne?
Didn't you mentioned this a few days ago? Could you do a breakdown of it? I found verses like Isaiah 24:15, Isaiah 13:11 compelling, any insight? Thanks.
Prophesy is unfolding rapidly, it never stopped and can be identified. Acquaint yourself with the prophets, what Jesus says in Matthew 24 and Luke 17. The prophets were shown our future, and this coming sixth trumpet, day of the Lord, scared them deeply, Ezekiel 21:7, Isaiah 13:8-9.
Christian's aren't scared because they weren't taught the proper tenants of the Bible, they think God will unconditionally protect them, no matter how badly their elected leaders behave. Will America will always sit a queen? Isaiah 47:7-11
The Bible is limited in its 1-4 trumpet descriptions. It is the last 3 end-time trumpets, 5, 6 & 7, that matter for this "last generation" (according to the signs). Half of Revelation 9 is dedicated to the fifth trumpet, the other half to the sixth trumpet. The sixth trumpet army smashes the fifth trumpet army to dust!!! Esau smashes Jacob, Obadiah 1. The king of the north smashes the king of the south, Daniel 11:40. The sixth trumpet is about one third of end-time prophesy; there's much written about it, enough for you to see prophesy unfolding in our time. Not many see what they read, let alone admit God is against backsliding America, Ezekiel 21:12.
Here's a big prophesy come to light in our time, but I don't expect it to fit in someone else's narrative:
Revelation 9:1-11 was 9-11-01, America is the fifth trumpet army, running a 20 year war on terror.
Revelation 9:4 America killed those men who did not have the seal of God in their foreheads (Muslims), and were told not to harm any green tree, and nothing green grows in the desert.
Revelation 9:6 The Muslims who were tortured at Abu Ghraib prison were seeking death, and couldn't find it.
Matthew 25:31-46,
Hopefully these are helpful
This chapter; like all scriptures should be taken as a literal prophetic event unless certain things are clearly symbolic. In this case everything is given a literal time frame and sequence; with supporting details not only in this chapter and the rest of Revelation; but other books including the Old Testament in scripture.
We can argue what we may about a Post Millennium mindset and agree to disagree if we have a basic belief in Christ's PHYSICAL return to earth in the future (something which FULL preterists seem to think has already occurred but in some mystical fashion). That would be the only case where we should disfellowship; and I and another brother in the Lord were forced to do that a few years ago. Something else which I consider very dangerous is the mindset that Satan is already bound in the bottomless pit. This is notwithstanding all the promises of the church that the powers of darkness will have no affect on us. There is certainly no limitation on killing the saints of God which Satan will do and continue to do until his punishment is enacted (at the end of the Tribulation and the end of the battle after he is released after the 1000 years). The general statement that a time worse than any that has ever happened or will ever exist again ( Matt. 24:21) with all the percentages of deaths listed in Revelation certainly has not occurred yet. We need to examine other scriptures such as Isaiah 14:17; Isaiah 41:5-13 on the coastlands burning; Isaiah 13:12 on man being rarer than the "gold of Ophir"; Isaiah 30:28 about the nations being put into the seive of destruction; Zechariah 12:9 on all nations gathered and half of Jerusalem taken and numerous other prophetic passages to see that indeed Armageddon must occur. Other verses talk of clear descriptions of mortal man still capable of sinning on the earth in the Millennium such as Zechariah 14:17-18; and Isaiah 65:20-25 being two of the clearest examples.
We see here; in the seventh vial judgment a great hail coming down on the earth which fits into the scenario of the Ezekiel 38 war. This is tied in with the greatest earthquake ever in verse 18; and Babylon the Great to be judged; the "great city" whatever that is-possibly Jerusalem being split in three pieces and all the cities of the nations falling.
See Ezekiel 6:6; ; Isaiah 30:25; Ezekiel 38:22; Zechariah 14:2; Isaiah 13:9.
Basically; these are eschatological issues. What we can b certain of is that FAR less than half of ANY population will be raptured.
Even if we take at face value the Rapture as a salvation and not a reward issue; Christ made it clear that FEW are saved. There is always a believing remnant among those confessing faith; in the O.T. as well as the New. Thus; the passage in question sounds more like God taking half out for judgment; but even that is in question as only FEW will live through the whole event (one third of Israel ( Zech 13:7-9). and those of the Gentiles will be rarer than the "gold of Ophir" ( Isaiah 13:12 on how few remain in the Day of the Lord). This verse could speak of Israel's casualties, SPECIFICALLY.
Agape; RP
with the true God it was under His rulership that all religions of the world including catholism had their roots. The reason I
said religions of the world is because Christianity is of or from Heaven. The great whore Babylon represents the adversaries
rulership on earth and how it uses and waste Gods creation which is why it will be eniliated and taken to the pit.
The wicked shall be gathered up and burned . So being left behind is a really good thing .
"Babylon the great has fallen has fallen.." Rev. 18:2. In fact, the whole of chapter 18 appears to describe the United States!
I pray people will wake up, and take His word as it is written. As I talk with many "born again" Christian's, I find that many are thinking they do not have to worry about what's coming upon the earth, because God is going to "rapture" them out of harms way. That is NOT what God's word says! 2 Timothy says, " Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution".
What makes us so special that God is going to snatch us up and away from trouble? Did he not protect Daniel while in the lions den. His word shows us that He'll protect us as we go through tribulations. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Many Christians are saying that God is "doing a new thing. Really .? God's word doesn't change to fit one's own narrative. Look what's happening in our country. The Biden democrat/Marxist party is destroying everything good about our nation, and filling influential positions with godless people who hate our country, while at the same time claiming to be good Christians. I correct myself such that Biden and Pelosi claim to be good Catholics, which opens up another ungodly can of worms. I pray God gives us eyes to see and ears to hear during these corrupt and evil times. Thanks you for reading this post.
There is no doubt that we are heading to one world government and religion; and I doubt that I need to include proof here.
Even in utter destruction where no man will inhabit the land; God in His providence provides a place for unclean animals ( Isaiah 34:11). Such is the case also with the "feast" of Armageddon. The birds of the air are summoned; and no doubt hungry after the Tribulation. ( Rev. 19:18; 21). So in essense we either attend a great supper or we ARE the meal; for a large portion of men in those days.
There are many good books on the subject. Alexander Hislop wrote "Two Babylons" which gives some context for these concepts. There are more recent writings where a strong argument based on many verses in Jeremiah seem to point to the USA being referenced in a veiled manner. The main points would be a nation founded on the truth yet with an occult bend from it's origin; a melting pot of many nations divided by many rivers and surrounded by many oceans; the port Babylon in NYC (where the Statue of Liberty kind of represents the lady in Revelation and the great city destroyed the world mourns after; etc.)
There are also compelling arguments of the Arabia area today where the 3 Monotheistic religions are planning joint worship and a city 30 times larger than NYC with drones prevailing are upcoming the next few years. Whatever the case; our hearts are not to be in the world where things are perishing but in the unseen treasures of God.
I appreciate your knowledge, here. Jesus also comes symbolically at the 6th trumpet, day of the Lord, the day named after Him. Jesus comes like a thief to lay the land desolate (both houses of Israel).
Jesus participates at the falling away in Spirit:
Isaiah 13:5 They come from a far country, from the end of heaven, [even the LORD], and the weapons of his indignation, to destroy the whole land.
Luke 12:40 Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not, 6th trumpet.
Isaiah 13:6 Howl ye; for the day of the LORD is at hand; it shall come as a destruction from the Almighty, 6th trumpet.
Joel 2:9 Jesus comes in at the windows "like a thief" at the day of the Lord.
God even calls the beast army, "His army", and praises anti-christ's might, Joel 2:11
Everything Jesus warns us about is facilitated through anti-christ's scriptural actions against us. Jesus warns us of a surprise attack, a sudden strike, then we find out that that's what anti-christ is preparing for a year, month, day and hour. Jeremiah 15:6-9 "I have caused him to fall upon it suddenly, and terrors upon the city".
As a cautionary note about the day of the Lord and America:
Ezekiel 22:30 And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.
Scripture gives us much information about what will occur during the end times. Look up what Jesus says about it in Matt. 24; Mk. 13. Lk. 19. There are a large numbers of prophetic verses about the end times in the OT and NT, especially in Revelation.
For me, I study the Scriptures to learn what is said there about the end times. I heed the words of Jesus for us to be know the signs of the time, be watchful, ready, waiting, looking for Him, prayerful, and to have faith that endures to the end. I stay abreast of what happens in our world to see if there are things happening that may be fulfilling what Jesus said or other prophecies. But even more so, I chose to live godly life in this wicked age and to set Christ aside in my heart so as to be ready to give an answer to any who inquire about the hope I have within me, which is Jesus Christ, our hope of glory.
We still need to continue to work and provide for ourselves and our families even if it should prove that we are in the end times. We are to continue to do (while it is still day) the work God has tasked us to do for the kingdom until He returns. We are to continue in doing good to others, worshipping with other believers, engage in our sphere of influence, care for those in need in our communities according to our abilities, and everything we would normally do if it didn't seem like the end times.
Right now, our world is in a precarious position as it has been in the past century with two world wars and other regional conflicts. We have had prosperity in past decades but now with covid effects and inflation rising, our economic situation is unsettling. With weather events such as recent tornadoes and hurricanes along with other catastrophes like earthquakes, drought, famine it seems that our world is in a spiral. But that does not mean equivocally that we are in the end times, as history shows that humanity has gone through great tribulations before. But it doesn't mean we are NOT in the end time
Those who will be most prepared, will make Jesus their leader and Lord now. Information in the Bible has been available for 2,000 years.
Father God has had an end of time program in place for all these years. 2 Peter 3. That explains what people call "global warming."
Political people are attempting to stop Gods plans for the end of time. Time (ticking of the clock) began over 6,000 years ago. There are "thought leaders: Bill Gates, Zuckerberg, Obama, are trying to convince people that human beings can STOP God's known Will for the future of Earth. We will have a future, but we must choose Jesus NOW. He wants to save us and give us a home in the future.
Thought leaders cannot stop God. Their plans for all mankind leads to slavery to their ideas on how to save the earth; which will not prevail.
God created all we see and know. He loves us!! He gave Jesus to rescue only those who place their future in his hands. EVERYBODY is invited to place their futures into The Father and the Son's hands. Faith is not really blind. God gifted us the ability to choose our futures: what we would have or have not. Choose evil or good (God).
God knew mankind would choose leaders that would take us straight to hell: depending on them instead of God. TIME is ticking down to the end. Now we see the prophesies of the END appearing. Thought leaders cannot kill God, so they will kill His creation and the people who live in it. Technology who will create a WORLDWIDE Bank will be the way they do it. They will force us to renounce God to get at our money.
The only way to survive this is to put your faith, solidly, in Jesus now. Find the BECOME A BELIEVER link and secure your future. Return here for encouragement. Beloved, read the Bible and grow your Faith, every day.