Tag: judgement

What is Grace?

This website has been a “journal” for me, documenting my discovering the Truth, as I learn from scripture or as I am inspired, I often write. Today I’m sharing something I learned yesterday after listening to an excellent video podcast, shared at the end of this post. I say “excellent” because it has literally been years of me questioning “grace” and no one has been able to give me an explanation that gave me peace until now, John Bevere finally did! After listening to that video, I decided to look deeper into scripture to confirm this understanding.

The word “Grace” is so often used in churches relating to salvation, and that’s a great thing! However, this word became “offensive” to me quite honestly because of the context I often heard expressed from so many people saying: “I’m a sinner, thank God for grace!” As if saying: “I have no power, sin rules me, so thank God for grace.” I’d hear: “Thank God I don’t need to worry about how I live life – I’ve been saved, all I need to do is trust in His grace!” Most people would embrace hearing that, right? So why did this give me such an appalling reaction? It concerned me: why do I feel this way? Why do I have this reaction?

I talked to others about “grace”/salvation and received the following reactions from Pastors and others who were “Christian” longer than me, about this: I was ignored when I brought up “repentance” and being “born again,” I was told “don’t be legalistic,” I was reminded of “God’s love” and was questioned if I knew God’s love. I know God’s love because I experience it often, but this “grace” usage among some “Christians” still disturbed me and no one was giving me an answer that gave me peace, I still had this unsettling feeling and wondered what is wrong with me? I knew “grace” was good, but why was I still so disturbed by people’s use of the word?

I realize now that I didn’t fully understand “grace” (until yesterday after that video) and I believe some people who use that word today may not understand “grace” either, so of course I want to share this with others, because it is important! They say we are saved by “grace,” not by “our works.” I believe this statement, so I focused on what does “works” mean? I would pose the question: certainly it does not negate the 10 Commandments? but as soon as I would say that, I was told: “You’re being legalistic.” Then I would respond, but Jesus said:

17 “Do not think I have come to get rid of what is written in the Law or in the Prophets. I have not come to do this. Instead, I have come to fulfill what is written. 18 What I’m about to tell you is true. Heaven and earth will disappear before the smallest letter disappears from the Law. Not even the smallest mark of a pen will disappear from the Law until everything is completed. Matthew 5

Instead of emphasizing the “works” part, maybe it’s the “not of yourselves” part that would help me comprehend “grace”?

7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that NOT OF YOURSELVES; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. Ephesians 2

Most Christians believe we are saved by “grace” and that grace is a result of Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection thereafter, but then I question: Why did Jesus say WE must be “born again”? That’s US doing something (it’s not “Jesus plus Nothing”).

3 Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3

To me, this seems to require one more step than Jesus’ death on the cross, ie. why didn’t Jesus say something like this to Nicodemus? … you don’t need to do anything but believe in me. But that’s not what Jesus said, Jesus said he must be “Born Again.” Reflect on that for a minute and read John 3 in context. I hear many “Christians” say: “if you believe you will be saved”, but I remember this (and know demons won’t be in God’s kingdom):

18 But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! 20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? James 2

This has been a long debated topic: “faith” vs “works” – and I believe we are not saved by “works” but works DO become part of the life of someone who is saved. We are saved (and healed/restored) by “faith.”

16 And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yes, the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all. Acts 3

So what comes THROUGH Jesus? In the name of Jesus? Healing and Restoration, of course as shown in scripture, but what is the source?

Jesus Promises Another Helper

15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. John 14

26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.  John 14

So there is a “process”: Love Jesus, set our mind to keep God’s commands and Jesus will ask the Father to send the Holy Spirit to us – this is how salvation is not of OUR “works” and is a “GIFT” from God, this is the POWER to overcome sin, as the Holy Spirit works within us, we become “a new creation,” “born again.” Jesus made it possible for us (by his death on the cross), but then we need to take the next step and become a new creation through Jesus!

14 For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace. Romans 6

See, we CAN overcome sin by the POWER of the Holy Spirit, but not alone by ourselves! We NEED the Holy Spirit!

While “Grace” (“Charis” in Greek) is not entirely interchangeable with “the Holy Spirit” (Hagios Pneuma) there is a connection because it is the POWER ( a derivative of the Holy Spirit), not the actual Holy Spirit that seems to be “Grace”. Here is the Biblical outline definition of the Greek word “Charis” found in the New Testament:

Outline of Biblical Usage 

  1. grace
    1. that which affords joy, pleasure, delight, sweetness, charm, loveliness: grace of speech
  2. good will, loving-kindness, favour
    1. of the merciful kindness by which God, exerting his holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge, affection, and kindles them to the exercise of the Christian virtues
  3. what is due to grace
    1. the spiritual condition of one governed by the power of divine grace
    2. the token or proof of grace, benefit
      1. a gift of grace
      2. benefit, bounty
  4. thanks, (for benefits, services, favours), recompense, reward

Notice these qualities in bold-typeface above are also identified as “the fruit” of the Spirit below:

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.  Galatians 5

Notice also that the Holy Spirit gives us self-control (this is what we need to overcome many sins). Therefore, it seems obvious to me now that “Grace” is when we receive the Holy Spirit, when we become “Born Again” and just like scripture says, “Grace” does not give us a license to continue sinning, but to OVERCOME it.

26 If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, 27 but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God. Hebrews 10

3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them. Ephesians 5

That’s probably why scripture tells us: “be filled with the Holy Spirit” so we can overcome all those things that will keep us from inheriting the Kingdom of God! It all starts to make sense! Substituting the words “Power of the Holy Spirit” for “Grace” helps clarify “Grace” that comes as a result of the Holy Spirit of God through Jesus Christ. Below is a link to (3) pages of “grace” references found in the New Testament, try substituting “Grace” with the words “Power of the Holy Spirit” and see what you think.

Example: 9 But he said to me, “My grace (Power of the Holy Spirit) is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

Link: https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/search.cfm?Criteria=grace&t=NKJV&csr=9#s=s_primary_0_1

Here is the video I listened to that finally gave me the understanding that “Grace” is the “Power of the Holy Spirit” from God the Father, through Jesus:

The photo for this post “Come as You Are” seemed appropriate because that’s how we are when we respond to God’s calling, but we will not remain “the same”, once we receive “Grace”- thanks be to God! A true Gift!

If you haven’t received the Holy Spirit, pray to God, in Jesus’ name, asking for forgiveness of past sins and the help of the Holy Spirit to become a new creation and live in peace with God according to His will.

Knowing “Grace” is the power of the Holy Spirit, I can confidently state: We are saved by Grace and no longer have that uncomfortable feeling stating this! Thankfully I finally understand what “Grace” is!

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2024- What’s Your Word Heading into this Year?

This “Tradition” started a couple years ago (in 2022) with a group of friends from a Bible Study group I unexpectedly joined in October 2021. I say “unexpectedly” because I wasn’t looking for a group to join, I only went to be supportive of a friend who wanted to check it out, at the last minute one evening. So I went and ended up joining the group. Reflecting on this and knowing who God is, this wasn’t a coincidence; I needed this in my life.

2019 Words: ”Being Called” (Making God my Priority)

2019 was the year I decided to make God my priority (my last summary post for 2019) after reading the Bible for the first time. I didn’t have “a word” for that year but looking back, it would have been: “Being Called” – this was my 3rd “faith” related post on this website: see “Being Called” link in August 2019. 

2020 Words: ”Wake Up”

2020 was a year of isolation for most of us in the world, and as a result, I had more time to explore the Bible. I had so many questions about life, I was seeking TRUTH, in January 2020, I wrote about Love, but abruptly by March 2020, I felt we were experiencing a “Wake Up Call” from God, collectively as the world, but also personally in my life, I reflected on many aspects of life this year (Posts #10-21) but what impacted me most was Bible Prophecy: facing judgement and end times/the last days prophecies.

2021 Word: Death

Even though I didn’t have a word for this year, in hindsight, this reflected reality: my 14 month old nephew suddenly died, the mother of my son’s best friend died suddenly, and my dog suddenly died within a span of 4 months. Not only that, but the closest person to me unexpectedly rejected me in a humiliating public way at the time when I needed support the most. (When it rains, it pours!) But only days later, I was asked to go with a friend to this Bible Study group (See what I mean? No coincidences, God provides.) It was a tough year. All the death made me question, what happens after death, for real? I realized I didn’t have a clear biblically based understanding- only what I had been told throughout life. I plan to write about this later because I think others might have this question too. Ironically- in hindsight, after all this “death” surrounded me, late summer when I was on my phone an email came through with something to the effect of “last notice to sign up for baptism”- I felt like it was time I committed and did this, so I signed up and was Baptized on September 12, 2021. Baptism is symbolic of the death of our sinful past and rebirth, a new life, “born again”- it was both symbolic and literal for me. I wrote (posts 22 – 38) during this year. I didn’t post about the dreams I started having the night of my Baptism, I was confused by them at the beginning, but the “name of Jesus” was featured heavily and sometimes verses from scripture and the dreams involved various people in my life: friends, family and former business colleagues. I know there is significance to these specific dreams because I would see something specific from my dream, that day, weeks or months later as I was going about the day- completely unexpected when it would occur, but I would immediately recall: I dreamt that! It still continues but I often don’t have the understanding of the symbolism until I see it happen. It’s hard to explain this to anyone, unless you experience this, you won’t understand, but it heavily contributed to the faith and belief I have in Jesus. Even though my word for 2021 would have been Death, it was changed to Life. Death is no longer permanent becauses of Jesus’ death and resurrection, death is a transition, a going to sleep because those who believe and turn away from sin will be changed and become immortal when Jesus returns. Jesus said that unless we are “born again” we will not see the kingdom of God. (John Chapter 3)

2022 Word: Joy

After the experiences of the prior years, I wanted Joy! I chose the word: ”Joy.” Looking back, God brought joy into my life through a supportive, Christ focused group of friends from this new Bible Study group that I unexpectedly joined in October of 2021. I think God may have had something to do with that too. I continued exploring God’s word through scripture and how it relates to living life (posts 39- 66). I often was inspired to write in the morning just as I wake up from a thought that didn’t seem to leave or from a prior conversation I had with someone. As much as I wanted “joy” to be my entire focus, I couldn’t ignore what I found through Bible Prophecy and it, weighed heavily on me. Too many world events were/are lining up with Bible Prophecy and many people (just like me) didn’t even have this “on the radar.” I didn’t come from a religion that focused on this, so this was all new to me, I only discovered it after reading the Bible. This is why it is so important to know what’s in the Bible: so we’re not blindsided by reality when it happens. There is nothing to fear (if we are “spiritually” prepared in advance- meaning “born again”).

2023 Words: Trust and Obey

Many things in life “don’t make sense” to us, so this is when I need to “Trust and Obey” God. Ironically this was the first faith post I made: Trust and Obey –  I struggled/still struggle with this sometimes, but it’s getting easier! I guess God is making sure I comprehend this, because those words came back to me from 2017- 6 years later! Now, I trust God always, despite the circumstances, I know how it all will ultimately end, so I have peace in knowing what life holds in the future. We just need to get through the “tests and trials” until then. Often when I choose to obey (especially when I don’t want to), some “reward” seems to happen afterwards. I thank God for that when it happens because it is encouraging.

2024 Word: Love

What gets thrown at us in life and happens in this world can make “doing everything out of love” challenging, but this is important for those who claim to be Christians. I’ll be honest, I feel like 2024 may be a rough year ahead. It would be wonderful if I’m wrong, and I hope I am! But if these bible prophecy events keep moving forward like they have been, that’s going to be the reality; we’re not going to stop what God has foretold. I also know that what we focus on becomes our reality so my focus this year is love. I wish I could fast forward and get to the end of this year right now, honestly if I could fast forward to 2026 that would be even better!

2023 New Year’s Eve (12/31/23)

As I often do, even though I knew I wanted my word for 2024 to be “love” (because I need to be more loving) I wanted guidance from God. I prayed and asked God to show me something in scripture, pertinent to 2024, so I thought I would open the bible to scripture in the front, middle and back part of the bible for a more comprehensive understanding, possibly a common theme, so I could understand better. These are the pages I opened to:

Front Part of the Bible: 1 Samuel 4:4 through 1 Samuel 6:4 (1 Samuel 4, 1 Samuel 5, 1 Samuel 6)

This seemed significant to me because of what’s happening in the middle east land right now. This scripture references: Ashdod, Gaza, Ashkelon, Gath and Ekron. A battle is going on between the Israelites and the Philistines (the land of Gaza). While this is historic, not prophetic, we can learn from history: when God is with someone, they will not be defeated. God is just and will punish (in this scripture, tumors broke out on the Philistines because they stole the Ark of the Covenant and Eli died because his sons blasphemed God and no one restrained the sons). God is to be respected. He is not to be mocked. 

None of us know what will happen as a result of this current war happening, but we know from scripture that Israel will not cease to exist. I’m praying for all in the Middle East, that spiritual blindness is removed, that people turn away from sin and that many come to faith in Jesus Christ so they may truly have eternal life.

Middle Part of the Bible: Isaiah 59:5 through Isaiah 60:4 (Isaiah 59, Isaiah 60)

Isaiah 59’s summary is: Sin, Confession and Redemption- isn’t that interesting?! This is about the return of Jesus! (By the way, I do not believe Jesus is returning in 2024, but this is where our focus should be- getting prepared before he does return!)

Truth is nowhere to be found,
    and whoever shuns evil becomes a prey.

The Lord looked and was displeased
    that there was no justice.
16 He saw that there was no one,
    he was appalled that there was no one to intervene;
so his own arm achieved salvation for him,
    and his own righteousness sustained him.
17 He put on righteousness as his breastplate,
    and the helmet of salvation on his head;
he put on the garments of vengeance
    and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak.
18 According to what they have done,
    so will he repay
wrath to his enemies
    and retribution to his foes;
    he will repay the islands their due.
19 From the west, people will fear the name of the Lord,
    and from the rising of the sun, they will revere his glory.
For he will come like a pent-up flood
    that the breath of the Lord drives along.[a]

20 “The Redeemer will come to Zion,
    to those in Jacob who repent of their sins,”
declares the Lord.

21 “As for me, this is my covenant with them,” says the Lord. “My Spirit, who is on you, will not depart from you, and my words that I have put in your mouth will always be on your lips, on the lips of your children and on the lips of their descendants—from this time on and forever,” says the Lord.

Isaiah 59:15-21

Then Isaiah 60 talks about the Millennium Reign of Jesus Christ and what it will be like, this is only an excerpt, but the link above is the entire chapter. Isaiah the prophet foretold this to the Israelites. Does this not inspire all of us to prepare spiritually?

No longer will violence be heard in your land,
    nor ruin or destruction within your borders,
but you will call your walls Salvation
    and your gates Praise.
19 The sun will no more be your light by day,
    nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you,
for the Lord will be your everlasting light,
    and your God will be your glory.
20 Your sun will never set again,
    and your moon will wane no more;
the Lord will be your everlasting light,
    and your days of sorrow will end.
21 Then all your people will be righteous
    and they will possess the land forever.
They are the shoot I have planted,
    the work of my hands,
    for the display of my splendor.
22 The least of you will become a thousand,
    the smallest a mighty nation.
I am the Lord;
    in its time I will do this swiftly.”

Isaiah 60: 18-22

Back part of the Bible: Galatians 5:17 through Galatians 6:18 (Galatians 5 and Galatians 6)

Galatians 5 is summarized as “freedom in Christ” – does that not also suggest getting prepared?! Then it talks about living by the Spirit (this is how “born again” people live life) and to me personally, the word I chose for 2024 was “love” look at verse 22- and this is the page I opened to after prayer! I don’t believe in “coincidences” – God is in action always, sometimes we don’t understand, but later we will. God is doing something, we just need to be receptive to His plans for us, His communication with us!

16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever[c] you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Galatians 5:16-26

And Galatians 6 ties all this together from the front part of the Bible verses (God is not mocked) to the middle verses (eternal life, new creation) and back verses (How we should prepare spiritually- becoming the new creation, born of the spirit!)

Doing Good to All

6 Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. 4 Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, 5 for each one should carry their own load. 6 Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.

7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Not Circumcision but the New Creation

11 See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand!

12 Those who want to impress people by means of the flesh are trying to compel you to be circumcised. The only reason they do this is to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. 13 Not even those who are circumcised keep the law, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast about your circumcision in the flesh. 14 May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which[a] the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is the new creation. 16 Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule—to[b] the Israel of God.

17 From now on, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.

18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers and sisters. Amen.

Galatians 6

This prayer to God and the resulting verses made an impact on me, that is why I shared this. If you haven’t already been “born again” (turning from sin and receiving the Holy Spirit)- what is keeping you from this? You can do this right now. If you believe that Jesus is the Son of God, was born sinless because it was through the Holy Spirit that he was conceived, he died on the cross for our sins (to break the curse of death and give us life- the one and only, final sacrifice needed to make it possible for us to be in God’s future kingdom- here on earth, not up in the sky) then resurrected, ascended to Heaven where he lives until he returns to deliver justice, wrath and then reign as our king from Jerusalem in Israel. If we believe this and turn away from sin, Jesus will give us the Holy Spirit. Jesus was baptized and told his followers to baptize in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, however the man next to him on the cross did not get baptized but Jesus told him he would be with him in paradise. Baptism is important because Jesus told his followers to do this: it’s an outward sign of belief and turning away from a sinful life, but God is mostly concerned about what’s happening inside us: Repentance (turning away from sin) and Receiving the Holy Spirit are necessary. I was baptized as an infant, but I wasn’t sure if that “counted” because that wasn’t my choice, that was my parents’ choice. So I was baptized as an adult in 2021 and I think I made the right choice because after that is when I started having spiritual dreams and seeing visions of things in the future- I have no other explanation, than this baptism must have been what made this happen. Our relationship with God is personal, our parents or no one else can force this or make it happen. It is a personal choice, and a very important one. Is 2024 your year to be “born again”?

I pray for all who read or share this with someone they care about: May God’s love for you be known! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

by Categories: bible prophecy, bible study, FAITH, FAMILY, Following Passions, FRIENDSHIP, God, HAPPINESS, Healing, Improvement, Love, Make It Count, Parents, prayer, priorities, RELATIONSHIPS, WellnessTags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

Revelation Timeline (Commentary/Subject to Change!)

I started writing about the book of Revelation in February 2022 but stopped after the first sentence, then woke up this morning thinking it’s time to complete this. If you found my podcast, on Spotify or Apple (episodes 201 – 215), you will know I just completed a chapter by chapter reading and discussion on the book of Revelation, so I won’t go chapter by chapter here. This will be a summarization of the events.

My interest in Bible Prophecy (eschatology) started in 2020 when we had that global “pandemic” event, I felt there was a greater signficance, maybe a wake up call, a warning perhaps, and I believe it was, three years later (2023) because of the continuation of global events such as lawlessness, floods, hail, earthquakes, fires, etc. While all these events have been present as long as we can remember, there has been an increase in the intensity of these events since I started paying attention to them, search for yourself. This thought aligns with “Climate Change” focus (which I believe as a focus distracts us from what this really is: a warning from God).

Why is God warning us? I believe He is warning all mankind: there is prophecy written about thousands of years ago which remains yet to be fulfilled, and I believe it’s coming sooner than most people think: the return of Jesus Christ, which will bring about judgement on mankind: believers and unbelievers. I noticed that God often repeats things 3 times, or multiple times, when He wants us to pay attention to something in scripture. I say “God” repeats because I believe that the spirit of God inspired the 40+ authors who wrote what we refer to as “the Bible” telling a consistent message over thousands of years through prophets (in dreams and visions) and through the symbolism of actual events in history giving us a preview of what is to come.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.

Psalm 111:10

The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.

Proverbs 4:7

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Proverbs 9:10

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 1:7

In 2020 when I started seeking to understand, it was so confusing, and I found so many opinions on the sequence, the timing of these events. While, I’m still not certain about the timing of events, I’ve prepared a “Timeline” based on what I found in scripture, but what I think is most important, is our preparation, becoming “Born Again,” (click this link to read more on what this means), I didn’t make a podcast of this post, but plan to soon. Jesus said:

Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.

John 3:5

The “preparation” is the most important part and once we are prepared, “Born Again,” we will have no fear of the future events because we will have made an alliance, promise, commitment, covenant with God and He sees us as “His Children” whom He protects, shelters and works all things for the good of those who love Him and keep His commands.

Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.

Deuteronomy 7:9 (written by Moses)

Then I said: “LORD, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments,

Nehemiah 1:5 (written by Nehemiah the prophet)

I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed: “Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments,

Daniel 9:4 (written by Daniel the prophet)

And before anyone claims, the commandments no longer apply , that was the Old Testament, please remember these quotes from the New Testament:

“If you love me, keep my commands.

John 14:15 (the words of Jesus as documented by John)

Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.

John 14:23 (the words of Jesus as documented by John)

Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.

John 14: 24 (the words of Jesus as documented by John)

He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

Luke 11:28 (the words of Jesus as documented by Luke)

Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness?

Romans 6:16 (Paul’s words: we are either obedient to evil spiritual forces or obedient to God)

For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

1 Peter 4:17 (Peter’s words)

So because of all this written above, especially for those who want to “wait until the last minute” to prepare- we may be “at the last minute”- seriously, take a look at what prophecy indicates, then compare this to world events. Knowing prophecy is for our benefit, it will happen, Jesus explains the sequence of events in the chapters of Matthew 24 (the signs) and Matthew 25 (preparation and judgement)

After studying the Book of Revelation, I put together this “End Time Timeline” dated 10/2023- no dates, just what I discovered while reading scripture and this is slightly different from what I’ve heard from other people, the events may not be in this order, but this is the best I could put together from my current understanding of scripture. (It will change, if scripture provides clear evidence that this order of events is not correct.) This is a timeline based on what I found in scripture only, not what others teach. I am seeking the truth, only found in scripture. When we have differing opinions, it’s because we are not fully understanding the word of God. So I welcome anyone who has scripture to support a variation of this timeline because I only want to know the truth, to understand. I’m providing a link to the PDF timeline document for you to reference, download, mark up as you read scripture. Please share any clarifications (with scripture references) that you find relative to the timeline after reviewing, if you find evidence for something different and I will update the document. Hopefully this document will be helpful in recognizing where we are today using this timeline as we watch and experience world events.

endtime-timeline-2023-10Download

As I read the Bible, I found many references to “End Times” throughout scripture, and while many scholars often quote from various places in the Bible, I didn’t have a consolidated reference, so I’m going to do that for you: reference various parts of scripture that you will want to familiarize yourself with if you want more detail. Scripture interprets scripture, gives clarity, and provides detail. There is something that scholars also know: while some events occurred in the past, they were not a complete fulfillment of scripture, but they were a “preview” or a “foreshadowing” of future events, please keep this in mind and pray, asking God for wisdom, discernment and clarification if it is not clear and I believe He will give it to “His Children” who ask for this.

PLEASE SCROLL PAST THESE REFERENCE LINKS FOR AN IMPORTANT FINAL SUMMARY/ACTION PLAN

REFERENCES (with links for further reading):

  • MESSAGE TO THOSE WHO ARE DISTANT FROM GOD
  • Isaiah 30
  • SPECIFIC MESSAGES RE: ISLANDS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
  • Isaiah 11:11,

ACTION PLAN

The only preparation we need is to be “born again” as Jesus said in John Chapter 3. The normal reaction after hearing of the events described in the Book of Revelation is fear, but the spirit of fear this isn’t the spirit God wants us to keep, this is what we have when we DON’T have God’s spirit. If we have the Holy Spirit (we are born again, born of the spirit, a new creation), then we have nothing to fear because God provides EVERYTHING we will need- have faith and trust in Him. Faith comes from reading scripture (the Bible) seeing the repeated history of God’s character, His personality, who He is. Then when we KNOW God personally, from what is written in the bible and from our communication with Him, talking to Him through our prayers. Receiving the Holy Spirit isn’t some long drawn out process, the moment we are sincere in belief, wanting to change our ungodly ways, asking God for forgiveness, with a sincere “surrender” of my will to God’s will (obedience to God), asking Jesus for the Holy Spirit, we will receive the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit will begin to work in our life, we will begin to change (this part is a slower, more gradual process) but when we are sincere and our “hearts turn towards God”- God is merciful, loving, forgiving and restores us.

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7
by Categories: bible prophecy, bible study, Face Fear, FAITH, God, Healing, Improvement, Love, Make It Count, MUSIC, parenting, Parents, prayer, priorities, RELATIONSHIPS, spiritual warfare, WellnessTags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

Truth

When we know the Truth and accept it, the truth will set us free.  This is the truth:

  1. We were planned, not an accident, not by chance, but intentionally created by God out of His love. God controls all life.
  2. We have a purpose to fulfill on earth given to us by God.
  3. There is a future kingdom coming.  A new earth. We are on the testing grounds right now.
  4. Our actions will be judged by Jesus, son of God who will be given this authority to judge and rule the earth.
  5. Circumventing Jesus won’t turn out well.
  6. Our actions matter at judgement but won’t get us into eternity. Obedience to God’s commands is the basis for judgement.
  7. Repentance is significantly important – there are actions that will prevent us from being in God’s kingdom if we don’t change our ways.
  8. Jesus bridges the gap, made the way for us.
  9. We need the Holy Spirit indwelling to have immortal eternal life and be a part of God’s new Kingdom which is coming.  The Holy Spirit comes from God through Jesus.
  10. God loves us and wants us with Him in His future Kingdom.
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Spiritual Warfare – Is it affecting You?

I clearly see this happening to us, although it was present well before I was born; I was blind to it. I didn’t know it truly existed until a few years ago: the unseen forces we often battle! And so many of us react: “I just don’t know why that happened?!” After reading this, you might understand:

12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Ephesians 6:12

8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

1Peter 5:8

7 The Lord said to Satan, “Where have you come from?”

Satan answered the Lord, “From roaming throughout the earth, going back and forth on it.”

Job 1:7

Throughout the bible, there are references to being “sober” or avoiding being drunk. Have you ever heard someone make an excuse for something bad that happened and say: “Well that’s because I was drunk,” or “I wouldn’t have done that if I hadn’t been drinking,” or simply: “I was drunk.” Could it be possible that being under the influence of anything that puts our mind in an uncontrolled state literally allows or gives spiritual access and influence over our mind and body? Isn’t it interesting that alcohol is also called “spirits”? These are questions to think about, I don’t have the answers, but these questions have crossed my mind recently. I think about this next statement Jesus made to the Pharisee named Nicodemus:

12 I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?

John 3:12

There are heavenly things and spiritual forces we do not see nor comprehend. It seems to me there are some spiritual laws that we do not fully comprehend either, but we are affected by them. Jesus also said this about Satan:

10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

John 10:10

and Jesus said this to the unbelieving Jews:

44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.

John 8:44

We also know from the Bible that right after Jesus was baptized by John (the Baptist) in the Jordan River, the Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness for 40 days, and he was tempted by Satan. It’s interesting that this “tempting” occurred immediately after people visibly saw the spirit descend on Jesus and audible heard God speak. I believe this happens in our lives too, when we get closer to God, we can be sure that we will experience this spiritual warfare to try to interfere with our connection/relationship with God. It’s much easier to deal with an enemy, when we know who it is that is attacking.

16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

Matthew 3:16

Jesus knew scripture and quoted it in response to Satan’s temptations. This is a good reason why WE should know scripture too, so that when we are tempted, we can recall what scripture states and avoid the lies, deception or the temptation.

  1. In the first temptation, about turning stones to bread, it seems to me that Jesus is emphasizing this point; we live by every word (scripture) that comes from God’s mouth, not just by the bread that provides physical nourishment. In another part of scripture, Jesus refers to himself as “the bread of life” and in the gospel of John, Jesus is described as “the Word.”
  2. In the second temptation, it seems Satan wants Jesus to commit suicide, but Jesus responds that we are not to test God!
  3. In the third temptation, Satan wants to be worshipped, but Jesus responds: only God is to be worshipped.

4 Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted[a] by the devil. 2 After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”

4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’[b]”

5 Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. 6 “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written:

“‘He will command his angels concerning you,
    and they will lift you up in their hands,
    so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’[c]”

7 Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’[d]”

8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 9 “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.”

10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’[e]”

11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.

Matthew 4:1-11

Here is another example of the spiritual warfare affecting mankind. Saul chose to do things his way and not obey God. Saul wasn’t repentant for doing it Saul’s way, he justified it. Therefore, God rejected Saul as King. From this we see that when God’s spirit is with someone they are blessed and protected, but after a period of time when a person remains disobedient, God removes His Spirit and an evil spirit is then allowed access. Here is what happened to Saul, found in scripture:

14 Now the Spirit of the Lord had departed from Saul, and an evil[a] spirit from the Lord tormented him.

1 Samuel 16:14

The entire book of Job is about a spiritual attack from Satan. Everything was taken from Job to turn Job against God, but fortunately Job did not turn away from God and God rewarded Job. We also see from this that everything is under God’s ultimate control, even Satan. God transferred the power over Job to Satan. This is concerning because Job was righteous and God allowed some horrible events to occur. But we have to remember that our time on earth is temporary, our focus should not be on this world, but on the next. Those with God’s spirit will live in eternity with God in the future when Jesus returns. So ultimately whatever hardships we experience as testing of our faith when we continue to trust in God, if we endure and prevail, we will be rewarded in eternity, if not before then. God is faithful and keeps promises. We may not always like the way events work out, but we must trust that God will work out everything for the best of those who love Him.

9 “Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. 10 “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. 11 But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.”

12 The Lord said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.”

Then Satan went out from the presence of the Lord.

Job 1:9-12

10 After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.

Job 42:10

Another thing to know about the spiritual attacks is that we can’t let our guard down. When God removes an evil spirit, if we don’t remain connected to God, even more evil will come to attack us. Here is the example of this from scripture of what Jesus said to the Pharisees (the righteous law keepers):

43 “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. 44 Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order. 45 Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation.”

Matthew 12:43-45

To summarize, we are likely experiencing spiritual warfare (if it is not a direct consequence for our “sinful” action) when the following happens:

  • Sadness
  • Believing negative lies
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Loneliness
  • Physical Illness
  • Physical Destruction or Brokenness
  • Feeling Unworthy
  • Feeling Emptiness
  • Feeling Lacking in some aspect
  • Feeling Insecure
  • Experiencing Temptation
  • War/Fighting/Anger

From scripture, we learn if we are not living obedient to God, we can experience these things as a consequence of our behavior. The consequences are allowed by God with the hope that we “wake up” and turn back towards Him. While this may be upsetting to hear, if we turn back towards God with all our heart, He is merciful, forgiving, loving and wants all of His children (us) living in Eternity with Him on a new earth and heaven that will come after Jesus returns. God has incredible future plans for us in Eternity; his plans are so much greater than ours.

because the Lord disciplines those he loves,
    as a father the son he delights in.[a]

Proverbs 3:12

HOW TO STOP SPIRITUAL WARFARE

Knowing about spiritual warfare gives us the ability to fight it off. First take an honest look at the life we are living, do we need to change anything according to what God wants for us? Secondly, pray. Turn to God for help. Jesus often withdrew from the crowds to pray and Paul said this in scripture:

17 pray continually,

1 Thessalonians 5:17

Sometimes this spiritual warfare can feel like it’s on a “repeat cycle” and never ends, just keeps coming. There could be a reason for this too because Jesus told us:

34 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 

John 8:34

Continual disobedience (aka sin) or towards God keeps us IN SLAVERY of sin. Doing something we know we shouldn’t but can’t seem to stop, that’s what continual disobedience is, and we wonder “why?” Why is because we are SLAVES to it, we have allowed it, by our choice, now it takes over and CONTROLS us. If we believe we are not enslaved, well that’s another LIE and spiritual attack to keep us in the continual disobedience. Do you see how this works? We allow ourselves to be MANIPULATED by Satan when we don’t fight it off and do something different. Remember: insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. We need to make a change to end that cycle! It will continue until we do something about it, until we get tired of being a pawn in slavery to the enemy of God. This fact comes from the mouth of Jesus himself: if we are in sin, we are a slave to it. What does Satan come to do? steal, kill and destroy. So how long will we let this cycle continue before we truly take action and defeat it? Maybe we’ve unsuccessfully tried to stop this on our own in the past? Why not try this time: WITH GOD!? Remember what Jesus told his disciples:

26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Matthew 19:26

When we surrender our life to God, when we choose God instead of remaining in disobedience, God HIMSELF will make it possible. By FAITH in God. Faith can do unimaginable things, Jesus said this too:

20 He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

Matthew 17:20

Remember what happened to Peter when he had partial faith, or fleeing faith:

27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

29 “Come,” he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”

31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

Matthew 14: 27-32

So how do we obtain FAITH? Paul tells us how (read scripture!):

17 Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.

Romans 10:17

ETERNAL SECURITY

It’s simple to know if we will be in eternity because Jesus said to enter God’s kingdom, we need to be born again, born of the water and of the spirit. The water is a baptism indicating “repentance,” born of the spirit is receiving the Holy Spirit from Jesus when we ask him for the Spirit and he knows that our intentions are towards being obedient to God. The Spirit helps us overcome the natural rebellion we have and gradually changes us.

5 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. 6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit[b] gives birth to spirit. 7 You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You[c] must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”[d]

John 3:5-8

This is interesting as documented in the gospel of Matthew, John (the Baptist) also said water for repentance and that Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. It makes sense because we receive the Holy Spirit through Jesus, from God, but John also mentions “fire” – to me this sounds like the testing, often throughout scripture it mentions refining metal through fire symbolic for refining of people through testing.

11 “I baptize you with[b] water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with[c] the Holy Spirit and fire. 12 His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”

Matthew 3:11-12

When we know Spiritual Warfare exists and how we can fight it and we know how we have Eternal Security- we then have nothing to be concerned about and can experience peace in all circumstances, knowing the promise of God. This peace can remain in our lives when we talk to God daily (through prayer) and our faith increases as we learn more from scripture about Jesus, daily reading of scripture is recommended too. We need daily reminders of the love of God. Jesus made it possible for us to share in God’s kingdom, when Jesus returns, we just need to make the choice.

I pray for wisdom, guidance and protection from God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit to come to you and remain with you until we have that eternal security when Jesus returns and then will be together as brothers and sisters in God’s kingdom, eternal peace, joy, happiness, and celebration. It will be amazing! It is from God! Get ready for it!

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Is the End of Time near?

Began Questioning. In 2020 this question came to my thoughts for the first time ever. I don’t remember thinking about this before or having any reason to think about this, but 2020 events stood out to me. In 2019 I read the bible for the first time (front to back) so I was familiar with the bible and knew this question was covered in several Old Testament Books (covering the time period of approximately 1900 BC until Jesus was born) and New Testament Books (the story of Jesus and his followers covering the time period up to approximately 95 AD). The entire Bible covers events for approximately 2,000 years in total time.

Researching. I read the relevant scripture in the Bible, found Bible studies on this and listened to several people who have dedicated their “ministry” to learning and understanding the prophecies from a biblical perspective, a few having done this for 40 plus years, not from someone of today’s “dreams or visions,” but what does the Bible say about it? Yes, some people, many people in fact, add their opinions, it’s hard not to do that in order to explain one’s understanding of what they read. So I’ve seen and heard various versions of opinions about the “signs” and whether the end is near and at the beginning 2020, some Christians were skeptical while other Christians were saying there is very little doubt that we are living in the end times.

Various Viewpoints. In 2013, the Washington Times published an article, survey stating that approximately 41% of people they surveyed thought we were living in the end times: 54% Protestants, 77% Evangelicals and 27% Catholics (but the percentage of Catholics grew for the “practicing” Catholics, it went up to 45%) who believed we were living in the end times. What I found interesting is that I did not find a more recent article (from a neutral source- non-religious) than 2013 about this topic. I’m surprised! The exact opposite is true for people of faith who are close to scripture (and I am referring to many faiths, not just Christians): The Jewish are preparing for the coming Messiah, the Muslims are preparing for the Mahdi and coming Messiah and the Christians are preparing for the return of Jesus.

Going to my Source for truth: the Bible. So what does the Bible tell us about the signs? I view the Bible as truth, so unless it’s written in the Bible, it’s an opinion to me. Based on the Bible, the “end times” have been approaching, at a slow rate though, since the days following Jesus’ death and resurrection, so that means we’ve been in this process for a long period. However, the signs appear to be increasing rapidly. When I first wondered in 2020 if the end was truly approaching, I was skeptical too, but equally concerned, enough to motivate me to look into it and I’ve seen nothing but affirmation since then. I tell people if nothing happens by 2023 and things go back to “normal” maybe I’ll change my mind that this is further away than I anticipate, but unless or until there is a significant change from the real events that are happening, I can’t prove otherwise and I believe we are rapidly getting closer to Jesus’ return. Unless there are significant changes in events, I believe this could happen in my lifetime, which is something I never thought I would say. I’ll list the signs and provide the links to scripture:

  • The Second Temple was destroyed in 70 AD (about 40 years after Jesus’ death on the cross)
  • Many will claim to be the Messiah following Jesus (as well as False Prophets): a good way to know if it is the Messiah is if the return is witnessed out of the clouds, not any other way. So anyone who claims to be the Messiah, even if they perform miracles, they are fake unless they arrive out of the clouds and are witnessed by everyone. (That’s a pretty challenging feat, so it should be very easy to know if someone claims to be the Messiah, but Jesus warned that even believers may be deceived, because there will be one who arrives who will be charming and deceptive and convince many.) I’m sure if we searched, we’d find people who had mental issues that made this claim. Besides people claiming to be “the Messiah” there are also “false prophets” which is another reason people need to know what is written in the Bible, look at how many people were destroyed because they believed a person who distorted the truth from the bible in a convincing way such as in Waco Texas 1993, and Charles Manson was another one. These evil cult leaders distorted biblical truths and convinced others.
  • Wars and Rumors of Wars. (This will continue until Jesus returns, the bible tells us we will not have global peace until Jesus rules, after his return. So all of this working hard to reach global peace is futile, we understand this if we look in the bible for truth.)’
  • Famines. (This has also been continuous throughout history and documented in the Bible, so this alone doesn’t necessarily mean the end is near.)
  • Earthquakes. Again they have been occurring throughout history, but something interesting that I discovered is that they have been increasing in numbers of earthquakes over the years. I read an article that stated they were not reporting on this because too many people were getting concerned about this trend.
  • The Gospel will be preached to the whole world. With the ability of the Internet, the Gospel has the ability to circulate to most of the world. Many Christians feel this is their obligation: to share the Gospel (the story of Jesus and the ability for those who want to be “saved” to be saved). Jesus did tell his followers to go and share the “good news” which they did and it continues today through Christians. There is also a verse in Revelation 14:6 that tells us that in the very end, there will be an angel proclaimed to every nation, tribe, language and people, just before judgement. But if you read Revelation, the circumstances at this time are not ones most of us would want to experience. Becoming saved at the end is possible, but not likely due to the impact of evil that will surge. But God does give EVERYONE one last chance.
  • The AntiChrist is revealed. This was first told in the book of Daniel foretold by God’s messenger, the angel Gabriel and Jesus affirms this will happen in the book of Matthew. The Anti-Christ is revealed when he tells the world he is God from the temple (as written in the book of Daniel and by Paul in 2 Thessalonians 2:4. The third temple is not built yet, but the Jewish community has plans ready, interior furnishings ready and are waiting for the permission to build it.
  • The Great Tribulation. There will be tough times, greater than have ever been on earth before, but God cuts the time short for this so that all people do not perish (I think the bible means perish eternally, not in a physical sense) The longer this horrible time continues, the more than likely the more people will turn away from God when they are being tested. This repeatedly occurs in the bible: when people are tested they either seek God more or turn away from him. There are many stories in the bible of this. Jesus warned us, when this happens, if we are present, we need to persevere with the knowledge he gave us about this, don’t loose faith.
  • More False Prophets will deceive people during this time. Jesus foretold this.
  • The sun, moon will be darkened and the stars will fall from the sky: Immediately after these signs listed above happen, there will be noticeable “events” in the sky.
  • Jesus returns “arriving on the clouds”
  • The elect will be gathered: this is what people call “the Rapture”- here is a link to more about the Rapture.
  • These are the signs, as told by Jesus that we can look for to know if the End is near. As you can see there are several events that must occur before the end happens. The book of Revelation, as well as other prophets share several events that support this too and I may write about them in a future post, but trust me, or better yet, discover for yourself: none of this should come as a surprise; we were warned in scripture, in advance:

The Lesson of the Fig Tree
(Mark 13:28–31; Luke 21:29–33)

32Now learn this lessone from the fig tree: As soon as its branches become tender and sprout leaves, you know that summer is near. 33So also, when you see all these things, you will know that He is near,f right at the door. 34Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have happened. 35Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away.

  • Jesus also told his companions, the disciples, that the end would happen as a surprise to many (those who are not familiar with scripture), there will be some still living the carefree life (but this doesn’t mean they won’t be affected; it will be devastating for them; they will perish). Matthew 24: 36- 51
  • Jesus also warned his companions that people need to prepare, this shouldn’t be dismissed, we have a window of opportunity to get ourselves prepared (acknowledge our ways that need to be changed to live a life God “approves”, make a commitment to change, ask Jesus for help changing and let God know that you’ve made that decision, stick with that decision- don’t fall away), but if we don’t, we face destruction. That window of opportunity is which ever comes first: our physical death or when Jesus returns. Matthew 25: 1-13
  • Jesus wants his followers, the believers to share the Way with other people, not to hoard what they know or keep it a secret, it needs to be shared so others benefit from this amazing gift, treasure: eternity that Jesus told people about. Matthew 25:14-28
  • Judgement will happen following Jesus’ return. Matthew 25:31-46.

All of this above is the signs leading up to and the events that were told by Jesus. We are in the End Times, and we should remain watchful for the future signs, but most importantly we should be prepared and help others to prepare.

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