What Does the Bible Have To Say About God's Great White Throne Judgment?

As I explained in the last post, I am walking in a new season of study in God's Word... not reading something new, but rather, understanding what I've read before in a new light and revelation. What the Lord is asking of me is to understand the Judgments of God and to share what the Bible reveals about His judgments and who they affect. And, so today my focus is on one of the most misunderstood judgments of the End Times...

The Great White Throne Judgment.  Here is what Scripture says about this judgment, found in Revelation 20:11-15 -- And I saw a great white throne and the One sitting on it. The earth and sky fled from His presence, but they found no place to hide. I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God's throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. The sea gave up its dead, and death and Hades (the grave) gave up their dead. And all were judged according to their deeds. Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This lake of fire is the second death. And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire. 

The first thing we need to understand about this passage is that this judgment was prophesied in the Old Testament by Daniel 12:2: And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. And it is evident, by the language, that this is referring to awakening from death [sleep], i.e., resurrection; and that there are two different resurrections being mentioned -- one to everlasting life, and one to everlasting contempt [death]. So, it looks like all the dead will be resurrected at some time or other, but not everyone will receive the same fate. Jesus confirms this in John 5:29, when He says, "and come out, those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of judgment".    

So, what does the Bible say about these two resurrections and what are the fates of those resurrected? Let's take a look at the first resurrection ... Revelation 20:4-6 describes it: Then I saw thrones, and seated on them were those to whom the authority to judge was committed. Also I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for the testimony of Jesus and for the word of God, and those who had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such, the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with Him for a thousand years.  The first resurrection will see the martyrs, the Old Testament saints, and those who rise to meet Christ at His return. These are all believers and they will rule and reign with Christ for a thousand years, or in other words, during the Millennium. 

It is also important to realize that this first resurrection "age", if you will, takes place in different stages. Jesus begins the age with His own resurrection, as the "first fruits" of God's redemptive plan for all mankind (1 Corinthians 15:20). There will then be the resurrection of  "the dead in Christ" at His return (1 Thessalonians 4:16). These stages are then followed, at the end of the tribulation, with the resurrection of the martyrs and the Old Testament saints (Revelation 20:4). They are all part of the first resurrection.

NOTE: I want to interject that sometime during this age between the first and second resurrections, the Bema Seat Judgment takes place. (See my post on this judgment of believers and their inheritance/rewards here). There is no definitive time given in the Bible [that I can find] that narrows the timeline. The options are:  immediately after a believer dies; after the Rapture [depending on when you believe that takes place]; after Jesus's Second Coming; sometime during the Millennium Kingdom; or before the Great White Throne Judgment, which some believe happens at the end of the Millennium Kingdom, [or thousand year reign of Christ on earth] and preceding the coming of the new heavens and the new earth. That's why it is important for us all to spend time knowing what we believe and why.   

Now, let's look at the second resurrection. From the Revelation 20 passage, it can be surmised that those who comprise the second resurrection are the wicked who are judged by God at the Great White Throne Judgment. Their judgment will take place prior to being thrown into the Lake of Fire. So, this is the raising of all unbelievers, who will be judged for their evil and/or unbelief. Various versions of John 5:29 describe it as "the resurrection of judgment" (ESV); judgment that is to be sentenced (AMP); the "resurrection of condemnation" (1599 Geneva Bible); and the "resurrection of damnation" (KJV).  

We have now expanded on the events that happen before the Great White Throne Judgment, i.e., the Bema Seat Judgment and the first and second resurrections of all the dead on earth. But what actually happens at this critical judgment of the unbelieving world? First of all, we should be in awe of the picture that the Apostle John paints ... Satan is released from the Abyss and God's presence on this throne of judgment is presented. It is so powerful and profound that both the earth and the sky [first heaven] "fled away". I believe this is referencing other descriptions in the Bible that describe earthquakes, mountains and islands being displaced, and the darkening of the sun and moon and stars -- in other words, man's sin cursed the earth, and God is now going to make way for a new creation; the new heavens and earth. That will begin to be revealed at the Great White Throne judgment.

Also, it is clear that this judgment is coming against all the unbelieving from every age of human history. The Lamb's Book of Life will be opened and if your name is not written in that book, you will not escape the Lake of Fire. I think we can consider this as a "spiritual death"; the eternal and everlasting separation from the presence of God. Thankfully, those of us who are believers and found in the Book of Life, need have no fear of suffering this second death. It has no power over those of us who have experienced the first resurrection and stood before the Bema Seat of Judgment.

The final thing I would like us to consider about the Great White Throne Judgment is its underlying message to us, the Believer. At times, when we see the lawlessness, cruelty, and wickedness of the world, we may wonder where God's justice is. Will the evil-doers ever be punished? The Great White Throne Judgment assures us that God is just, and He will repay the wicked for their crimes. "Vengeance is mine", says the Lord. Also, the picture of a future Great White Throne judgment reminds us that we are in a period of God's patience, as 2 Peter 3:9 tells us: The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise [to repay the wicked], as some understand slowness. Instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance". We are to make hay while the sun shines, so to speak, and reach as many as we can for Christ during this time in which God is exercising His patience, before releasing the Son to hold judgment. This is doing the will of God.  

In summary, the Great White Throne judgment is where unbelievers will be resurrected from the dead to stand before Christ and be judged for their works. Every thought, word and act has been documented in the Books in Heaven, and each will receive what they deserve, depending on the severity of their disobedience, and based on the amount of revelation they received about God and what they did with it. And here's an unexpected turn of events --- because Believers are co-heirs with Christ, they will participate in the judgment! "Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world"? (1 Corinthians 6:2).

So, while we know that our great God is a God of love, mercy and grace, we must know Him in the fullness of His character, and understand that He is also a righteous God of justice, and judgment belongs to Him. Thank you, Lord, for revealing Your complete nature! I want to know all about You!

Acts 10:42.  And He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that He is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead.

Jesus's Warning To Those Who Reject His Message of the Kingdom of God!

Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah

As I stated in the previous post, there is no doubt that we are at a critical juncture in our nation. And the theme of today's post is one that I continue to return to often, because it is so important to our future as individuals and as a nation. We have turned our back on the living God, believing the lie in the Garden that we can be our own god. Many have abandoned the truth, knowledge, and wisdom of the Bible, deciding to depend on themselves to figure it all out. But I caution all who call themselves Americans that there are a lot of quotes from Jesus in that Holy Book that, quite frankly, are alarming and terrifying. And I want to specifically point out to Christians and Believers that Jesus puts us on notice that our professed faith does not make us immune from judgment. But perhaps the two quotes I point to in Matthew 10 and 11 should make us all sit up and take notice.

In Matthew 10:5-15, Jesus sends out His twelve disciples, instructing them to go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel and proclaim that the Kingdom of Heaven has arrived. They are told to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers and cast our demons. They are told that when they come to a town and find out those "who are worthy", they are to stay with them. They are to let their peace come upon the house if the inhabitants are worthy; and if anyone will not receive them or listen to their message about the Kingdom, then they are to shake off the dust from their feet and leave that town. And here is the warning: Truly, I say to you, it will be more bearable on the day of judgment for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah than for that town.

Before we dissect the meaning of that dire warning, we need to understand what Jesus meant by being "worthy". According to Strong's Concordance it means to be found righteous on the grounds of being fit for the Good News of the Kingdom. And "being fit" means a willingness to receive the Kingdom; to "see" it and "enter" it. And as we know from John 3:1-5, Salvation is the entry point into the Kingdom. Once Saved, we are called to "do" the works of the Kingdom and take back dominion over the earth [defeating the devil's kingdom], starting in people's lives by healing them, casting out the demons that have kept them in bondage, raising them from the dead [if it is before their time], and teaching them to share this Good News and do the works of the Kingdom themselves, thereby expanding it until it covers the earth. 

But Jesus says that if a town is witness to these evidences that the Kingdom is here, and they refuse to listen or receive it, then they will be judged harsher than Sodom and Gomorrah. Wow! Most of us know that the Bible tells us how wicked and evil Sodom and Gomorrah were and that God destroyed Sodom. But do you know the extent of their wickedness? The ancient Book of Jasher gives us more historical insight into the deeds of Sodom. [NOTE: I am not saying that the Book of Jasher is inspired Scripture! But it is referenced in both the Old and New Testaments as a book of historical record. I have found that it fills in some of the gaps in the historical narrative of the Bible, and I believe God inspired the writers to reference it so we would have additional information to illuminate His inspired Word. Remember: It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, and the glory of kings to search it out [Proverbs 25:2)]. 

So, back to the story of Sodom. In the Bible, we tend to see Sodom as one city, but actually it was a kingdom. And our Christian doctrine primarily describes the sin of Sodom as either rape/sodomy, lack of hospitality, or pride. But it was much more! According to Jasher, the cities of Sodom had four judges to the four cities. These four judges issued a decree that beds were to be erected in the streets of the cities, and if a man came to these places, the citizens were to lay hold of him and force him to lie down on the bed. They would measure him according to the length of the bed, and if he was shorter, they would stretch him until he died. If he was longer, they would fold the bed up and crush him to death. 

Another favorite pastime of Sodom was equally appalling. If a poor man came to their land and entered their cities, they would give him silver and gold, then decree that no one in the city could give him anything to eat. Should he die from starvation, then the inhabitants of the city would come and lay claim to their silver and gold and fight over the man's clothes and belongings. 

Then there is the story of Paltith, a daughter of Lot that we don't read about in the Bible. During Lot's sojourn in Sodom, one of the men of Sodom takes Paltith as his wife. The Book of Jasher says that Paltith's soul was so moved with pity for a man who was being starved in Sodom that she secretly fed him bread and water, and he was revived. When it was discovered that Paltith was aiding the man, she was seized and taken before the judges of Sodom and was burned to death. Another young woman attempted to aid another traveler in the city of Admah [in the kingdom of Sodom] and her judgment was to be covered with honey from head to foot and placed before bee hives. Jasher records "the young woman cried out... and her cries ascended to Heaven. And the Lord was provoked at this and at all the works of the cities of Sodom, for they had abundance of food, and had tranquility amongst them, and still would not sustain the poor and the needy, and in those days their evil doings and sins became great before the Lord. And the Lord sent for two of the angels that had come to Abraham's house, "to destroy Sodom and its cities." I can't help but recognize the similarity in our blessings of abundance and tranquility among many in our nation, yet so many others are in need of sustenance. But I digress...

It is hard to imagine anything more despicable than these works of the cities of Sodom, and they will certainly be judged for their evil ways. But what does that say about our sins of mutilating kids to change their genders? And don't you think that making billions of dollars off trafficking children for sex is going to be measured  just as evil?  Jesus [in Matthew 10] says on the Day of Judgment, it will be more bearable for Sodom than for towns where the people will not receive or listen to the Gospel of the Kingdom! The cities of Sodom did not get the opportunity to hear about the Kingdom or see the works of the Kingdom displayed. Today, Christians DO have that opportunity! And I know the frustration of trying to share the Kingdom message and its works with people I think are worthy, and having it rejected. But when I see the judgment that is coming against those who refuse what Jesus commanded, it breaks my heart.

And if you doubt the truth of this warning, Jesus makes it again in Matthew 11:20-24! He warns the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum because they witnessed the mighty works of the Kingdom of God, yet they refused to repent -- which is refusing to change the way they think and "see" and "enter" the Kingdom of God which was being presented right before their eyes. Again, He tells them it will be more bearable for the evil towns of Tyre and Sidon, and more tolerable for the land of Sodom, than for these cities who were blessed with the confirmation of the Kingdom.

But now, I have to ask ... is it any different for us today? Won't we be held to the same standards as Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum? Won't the same judgement be issued for those who have seen evidence of the miracles of healing, and the casting out of demons, yet refuse to step into the Kingdom and continue the works of Jesus as He commands in the Great Commission? Yes, we have the benefit of Salvation, but Jesus commanded more. He preached the Gospel of the Kingdom. He didn't stress Salvation as our goal. We can't even see or perceive or understand the Kingdom without Salvation, so, yes, it is the essential first step. He tells us to seek the Kingdom first! Salvation is a given at that point. There is more to our purpose than getting Saved, and it is to advance the Kingdom through the works He did and to share the Good News that these works are part of the Kingdom; restoring us back to our original state of dominion which He gave men in Genesis 1:26-28 . 

If we are Saved, what's keeping us from taking that next step and seeking the Kingdom? Is it that the teachings of the Church have changed? I ask you to consider that after His resurrection, the Bible tells us in Acts 1:3, that Jesus appeared to the Disciples "over a period of forty days and [talked] to them about the things concerning the Kingdom of God". Acts 8:12 says "they believed Philip as he preached good news about the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ". And Acts 28:30-31 tells us that Paul "lived there [in Rome] two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance". Shouldn't we be doing the same? Does the Modern Church need to revive these foundational teachings of the Early Church?

So, here is what I'd like you to understand -- and what I believe the Early Church understood. The Gospel of the Kingdom includes the gospel of Grace, which offers people Salvation, and entry into God's Kingdom of Heaven. God's good news of Grace features the forgiveness of sin, God's redemption, and eternal life. The good news of the Kingdom is about the heavenly ruling of God and His authority over His creation. The good news of Grace, Eternal Life, and Salvation are all aspects of the good news that the Kingdom exists; they are part of the Kingdom and part of Kingdom living!  

It is time we take Jesus's warning in Matthew to heart. Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Jesus sent His Disciples out and instructed them, saying, "proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand". That goes for us, too!  We are to preach it in every town we enter, and if the people will not receive us or listen to our words, then it will be more tolerable for the towns of Sodom and Gomorrah, Tyre and Sidon, Chorazin and Bethsaida on the Day of Judgment than it will be for them. None of us are exempt from the judgments He decreed over the people in the Book of Matthew. 

I pray that a holy fire of revelation and faith in the promises of the Kingdom of God will sweep our land. We have much need of repentance and an acceptance of the Message of the Kingdom. I am happy to see progress being made, in that Believers are moving beyond "Kingdom" as the latest Christian buzzword or part of an advertising campaign to sell the idea of Church and gain new customers. Kingdom is more than creating and packaging the latest image of Christianity. It is a call-to-action, just as Jesus demonstrated 2000+ years ago! We need to not only hear it and receive it, but do it! It is time to preach it, teach it, equip and train! I do not want to see my country fall under the condemnation and judgment that Jesus warns us about! Let us understand, enter, do, and preach the Kingdom of God until it reaches the ends of the earth!

John 12:48    If you reject Me and refuse to follow My words, you already have a judge. The message of truth I have given you will rise up to judge you at the Day of Judgment.   

How Much Longer, Lord?

I am prompted to write this today after receiving a comment on a post I wrote in 2014. It has reminded me just how much we are living in days that are eerily similar to the days of Noah. At the time, I wrote, "There are days I wake up and wonder, 'How much longer can this world survive?' And, what will our lives be like when everything is torn asunder?" That was seven years ago, and can anyone say we've earned a reprieve? Today, I would add, "God, how much longer until You remove the Restrainer's hand"? We know, according to 2 Thessalonians 2:6, that the Antichrist is being held in check until the time of his revealing (although at times, it feels as if he is unimpeded) .

Certainly, the political corruption has accelerated; and it looks as if the Enemy has been handed the reins of government. At the very least, it is more evident that our government is not "of the people" -- the divide between those who govern and the governed has become quite obvious. And speaking of "divided" ... the devil has done a pretty good job of employing division as one of his weapons to control the world. He began by dividing the angels in Heaven against God, and then was able to tempt Eve, then Adam, to an act that separated them from God and severed their relationship. Blessedly, Jesus has reconciled us to our Father, but the world still suffers division between nations, peoples, races, sexes, religions, classes of people, forms of government, and in regards to the abominable act of termination of life in the womb.

Wars and rumors of war have pretty much been a continuous state of affairs for the last 100+ years. From WWI, we have essentially seen war bleeding into war, and here we are in 2021, with the possibility of another World War staring us in the face. In 2014, I wrote, "But I'm also aware that the lust for oil is at the heart of many [of these] conflicts.  If you dig deep enough under the propaganda, you will usually find a trail that links you directly to a massive oil reserve.  This includes all the pseudo-scientific data on global warming (or is it cooling these days?); there is always someone, or a group of "someones", who have become millionaires by peddling their brand of "caring for the globe".  In the meantime, nations send thousands of their young men to die -- not really for patriotic and sovereign reasons, but as a strategic move on the chess board of oil consumption". And here, we find ourselves again discussing Russia and Ukraine, and now let's add NATO to the conversation [which can really be thought of as the UN]. Once again, it's all about the oil. Ukraine is rich in oil and Russia doesn't want NATO/UN controlling this important resource. 

I'm also pondering how much longer will the world survive when I look at the turmoil happening in the earth. From the La Palma volcano off the coast of Africa to the earthquake zone known as "the ring of fire" in the Pacific Ocean, it seems as if the world is ready to erupt. The monstrous storm that saw 24 tornadoes form in our heartland this past weekend  -- one of them was 200 miles wide! -- seem to forecast implosion and violent collapse. In addition, we have been subjected to a virus for two years that has disrupted our economy, our ability to grow crops and feed the nation, and cost millions their lives. This is not the plan God wants for mankind. I've said it before, and I will say it again ... Satan has known God's plan from the beginning: to dwell among His creation in personal relationship.  And it has been the Devil's desire to disrupt that relationship at all costs.  He knew God would eventually have to send His Son to redeem us from the ways that he, Satan, would introduce.  If he could disrupt the genealogy and eventual birth of God's perfect Offspring with his own corrupt line, then the world and its inhabitants would worship him, Satan. And it grieves my soul and spirit to clearly see those who have chosen to bow down in reverence to God's enemy. 

The days of Noah are here! Men have used their knowledge to partner with Satan to corrupt God's design and purpose for men. In Genesis 6, we saw the hybridization of fallen angels and human women. Today Artificial Intelligence has resulted in an agenda to create a hybrid man/computer. In both cases, it results in a form of mankind that will not be recognized by the Lord on Judgment Day. Once again, I fear we have given God reason to declare, "It [deeply] grieves Me [to see mankind’s sin] and I regret that I have made them." I fear we are nearing that day sooner than we think.

As I watched the latest space flight of Jeff Bezo's Blue Origin rocket blast off into space, all I could think of was that this was a modern-day version of the efforts of men to build a Tower of Babel. Two of the passengers onboard this "spaceship" each paid a reported $28 million [each] to power into the heavens in a bid to shatter the boundaries between Heaven and Earth. It is the arrogance of men who seek to be "God-like" that delivers them into the hands of the devil. We must ask ourselves, "Are Christians ready for the deception that is coming on the earth? After all, Adam and Eve knew God intimately; they walked in the Garden with Him --- and they still fell for the lies!  

I know what the Bible says ... that judgment will begin in the House of the Lord. So I pray that the Church will awaken to the fact that God has put a mark on the foreheads of those of us who belong to Him in Spirit and Truth. There are some hard questions we need to consider ... Have we adequately sighed and groaned over the abominations that have happened on our watch? And have we done everything we could to stop them? Have we recognized our land is filled with the blood of innocent babies, and that injustice has been spreading like a fire out of control? Are we cognizant that the Lord sees it all, and He says the Day of the Lord will come when He will bring our deeds upon our heads? I am so grateful that the Prophets of old have declared that a remnant will be trained up for the Last Days to represent the holiness of God and proclaim His supremacy and glory! Although the gate is wide, the path is narrow, and we must guard the Lord's Truth in these Last Days so that as many as possible know the way into His Kingdom! 

So, yes, I see that the devil has sowed his wickedness in the world and men have succumbed to his temptations of power, influence and wealth. But I also know the promises of the One True God, my Lord and Savior, and the Creator of all things. Satan has built a highway to hell for those who seek their own glory, but Isaiah 35:8 tells us there will be a Highway of Holiness and only those who walk in the Way will travel it. The number may be small, but we will be mighty in the Lord's strength and power! So, while I look upon the world and it seems clothed in increasing darkness, I am able to perceive the Light of Heaven, which will soon shatter the darkness. Count your blessings that God has placed you here to be a part of His victory!

Psalm 14:2   The Lord looks down from heaven on the children of man, to see if there are any who understand [or act wisely], who seek after God.

Acts 17:26-27 Revisited

I recently received a comment on a post I originally wrote in 2012 concerning Acts 17:26-27. The comment was concise and brief ... "Holy Spirit anointed!" First of all, I was kind of amazed that someone would stumble upon a nine-year-old post. But as I re-examined what I wrote, I was curious as to what the Holy Spirit was showing me at the time, and wasn't surprised to note that the message then is the same for us today. So, I'd like to re-post it, along with new insight and counsel from the Spirit.

Acts 17:26-27 says this: From one man, He created all the nations throughout the whole earth. He decided beforehand when they should rise and fall, and He determined their boundaries. His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel their way toward Him and find Him—though He is not far from any one of us. Have you ever given thought to just what an amazing statement this is?  When I consider it, my understanding comes on different levels. First, I am astounded by the Creation; that from one man, Adam, all the nations (or every single person) have descended and populated the entire world. God has determined not only when each human being would be born, but where he would be born, his circumstances, and the boundaries of his life.

The Scripture says that He did this so each man and woman would seek Him; would reach out and find Him. Then the passage reminds us that He is not far away from any of us. We have the ability to seek Him because God instilled, within each of us, the knowledge that there is a Creator and the desire to know Him.  It just blows me away that every living being on this planet has the innate ability to seek that relationship. You may not have the knowledge of what to call Him (I'm thinking of those proverbial natives deep within some remote and undiscovered jungle); but you still know that there is a Power that you owe your life to, and it is awesome and fearful. The challenge to obtaining this knowledge is to know the true identify of this Creator God. We are each born because He has determined it; and there is a purpose for each life --- to revere Him, to obey Him and to serve His will -- to serve only Him!

But we must never forget that the Creator then gave us a great gift; the gift of Free Will. He also knows the beginning and the end of His creation, including the nations and lives of men. Hear what God says through the prophet Isaiah: I am God, and there is no one like me; declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, “My purpose shall stand, and I will fulfill my intention...” (Isaiah 46:9-10). Because God knows all, He knows what the actions of men and nations will be. And because nations act out of the free will of men, God has "decided beforehand when they should rise and fall". And yet, we have hope because as the Word says, His purpose shall stand, and He will fulfill His intentions! 

It is not pure happenstance that Empires have come and gone throughout history. God's hand has been in the rise and fall of each world power, and the extent of their dominance and influence have all served His plan and purpose. You can see it in the Biblical stories of Kings such as Nebuchadnezzar, Cyrus, Darius and Antiochus IV.  Whether good or evil, each one was used to further God's plan for His world.

Do you remember what we studied in Junior High World History classes?  I loved learning about the Spanish Armada and the fact that "the sun never sets on the British Empire."  I was mesmerized with the historic battles between the British and the French over who would claim rulership of the North American continent. These events were presented as ancient, almost romantic, tales of world history. But now I see that they were just a continuation of God's action in determining "their appointed times" and "the boundaries of their lands." Leaders and rulers and nations don't come into existence and then disappear solely due to their own efforts. God is constantly working out His plan! 

So what makes we Americans think that we are above the fate of any other nation?  Can we not see that God planted this nation Himself?  And do we not think that our blessings and protection can be removed just as other nations/empires have experienced? It is important to note that the Northern Kingdom of Israel [which included 10 of the 12 tribes that originated with the sons of Jacob] were taken into captivity and essentially became lost to history. But in 2 Kings 17:7-23, the Lord reminded them of why judgment came. Here is a synopsis of their actions: For so it was that the children of Israel had sinned against the LORD their God ... the children of Israel secretly did against the LORD their God things that were not right ... they did wicked things to provoke the LORD to anger, for they served idols, of which the LORD had said to them, "You shall not do this thing" ... Therefore the LORD was very angry with Israel, and removed them from His sight; there was none left but the tribe of Judah alone ... So Israel was carried away from their own land to Assyria, as it is to this day. 

The Bible is full of the disobedience and judgment against the historic nation of Israel, who is God's favorite of all the nations He has spoken into existence. When they abandoned Him for false idols and removed His influence from among their culture, they secured their fate. Their enemies were allowed to defeat them. If they remained stiff-necked and unrepentant, they sealed their fate by rejecting God's statutes and abandoning the covenant He had made with them. But when they repented and returned to Him, God would forgive them of their sins and they dwelt in the land in peace and prosperity. 

The same holds true for us; both as individuals and as a nation. God instilled something in each of us and in our cultural history; the knowledge that He created us. No matter what anyone says ..... that you exist because of evolution, or that the United States of America is not a Christian nation .... the truth is that our spirit and our land were ordained by God. And all He wants is for us to acknowledge our relationship and keep the connection by obeying His statutes and following His principles; remembering the testimonies of His presence in our lives and the history of this nation. As the Scripture says, He is not far away. 

Yet it often feels as if we have taken ourselves far away from Him. The forces of evil that are desperately trying to divide this nation have sown seeds of racial hatred, sexual perversion, and occultic wickedness across our land. I am heartened by those who refuse to fall prey to the lies of satan, and boldly stand in defense of God's ways. I believe that we, here in America, can reclaim our destiny and be declared a Sheep Nation. Those with eyes to see recognize that the kingdoms of this world are collapsing, and the Kingdom of God is manifesting in the fore-ordained time set by God. So, knowing the sovereignty of God to decide when and how nations shall rise and fall, let us, as citizens of both this nation and Heaven, engage in holy behavior, living lives that set us apart as Believers, displaying our profound reverence for our awesome God! In doing so, we will constantly be seeking Him, and will most assuredly, find Him -- and He will sustain us and preserve us!

2 Peter 3:17-18   Therefore, [let me warn you] beloved, knowing these things beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness [of mind, knowledge, truth, and faith], but grow [spiritually mature] in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory (honor, majesty, splendor), both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.

The Transhumanist Agenda: A Very Real Threat To Our Eternal Destiny!

 

I have so many points I'm discerning the Holy Spirit wants to make, that I don't even know where to begin! This is a topic that I'm pretty certain the mainstream Church is not even cognizant of; and those Christians who think the answer lies in politics or the next Great Awakening are not even considering. It will be labeled as conspiracy or radical, and most likely ignored. But my spirit is screaming that we do so at the risk of humanity's demise!

There are so many angles that I need to approach in sharing the revelations I am receiving that I want to make sure I present it in a coherent manner. I guess the best place to start is with Jesus's statement about what the End Times will look like: For the coming of the Son of Man (the Messiah) will be just like the days of Noah. If you don't know what those days represent, then I first suggest you read Genesis 6 in the Bible, and then you can read a blog post I wrote in 2014 that puts it in perspective for today. In 2014 my spirit was just receiving the revelation of a philosophical movement known as transhumanism, and the implications for our lives here on earth and for eternity. 

In February of 2014, I had just become aware of an organization called the International Global Future Congress 2045 and the meeting they had held the summer before. At the time, the website for GF2045 stated that their focus was "a discussion of a new evolutionary strategy for humanity aimed at overcoming the 21st century’s civilization challenges. The strategy is based on carrying out two revolutions: spiritual and sci-tech. We believe this is the only way to overcome existing crises." My spirit was immediately triggered by the words "evolutionary strategy" and wondered how God fit into this scenario. The website was quick to answer that question: "At the congress, a vision will be presented for the spiritual transformation of humanity, and new technologies will be demonstrated which are likely to form the basis of the sci-tech revolution. The congress will also showcase our Avatar science mega-project, aimed at accelerating the creation of technologies enabling a gradual transition from our biological bodies to an increasingly advanced artificial carrier of the human self."

That's a "scientific" way of saying that we would be transitioned from being made in the image of God to an "artificial carrier" of His original design. If there is anything you can point to that Satan would be involved in, it would be artificial, counterfeit, and corrupted. And if your own spirit hasn't started to sound off warning bells, consider this statement: "The main science mega-project of the 2045 Initiative aims to create technologies enabling the transfer of an individual’s personality to a more advanced non-biological carrier, and extending life, including to the point of immortality. We devote particular attention to enabling the fullest possible dialogue between the world’s major spiritual traditions, science and society."  Need anymore convincing that mankind has finally arrived at that point in history that Jesus prophesied?

Just as Satan's dark angels attempted to change the DNA of man from God's design to a perverted version of a fallen angel/human hybrid, [as disclosed in Genesis 6], it seems that Satan has come up with a new plan, and enlisted the help of some of the most brilliant scientific and technological minds of our age. Satan's goal has always been to usurp man's authority on the earth. Having spoiled his own destiny in Heaven through his arrogance and pride, and finding himself exiled to earth, he thought at least he could establish and rule his own kingdom down here without any interference from God. But he didn't count on God creating Adam in His image and giving humans the position of ruling the earth. So he hatched his plot to tempt and ensnare Adam and Eve to rebel against God, thereby wresting their dominion and authority to rule the earth away from them. And he influenced the "Watchers" to leave their heavenly abode and mate with human women, in the hopes of evolving a new species of being that could depose God's divine order of creation.

Fast forward to 2021. An article by Joe Allen at thefederalist.com, points out that there was a conference of transhumanists held last weekend in Madrid, Spain. It wasn't hard to denote its kinship to the Global Future Congress 2045. This article posited that TransVision 2021 promoted the tech theology "that there is no God but the future Computer God. They believe neuroprosthetics will allow communion with this artificial deity. They believe robot companions should be normalized. They believe longevity tech will confer approximate immortality. They believe virtual reality provides a life worth living. Above all, they believe the Singularity is near." And if you are unfamiliar with that term, let me put it in layman's terms ... "The Singularity" is the belief system that humans will transcend their God-given biology to merge with machines. God help us!

The founder of this theory, Ray Kurzweil [former Google engineer], has this to say about the Singularity: it is "a future period during which the pace of technological change will be so rapid, its impact so deep, that human life will be irreversibly transformed. The Singularity will represent the culmination of the merger of our biological thinking and existence with our technology, resulting in a world that is still human but that transcends our biological roots. There will be no distinction, post-singularity, between human and machine nor between physical and virtual reality." Notice that there is no mention of the human spirit. His predictions are summed up with this chilling statement: Human life will be irreversibly transformed.

So, here is what I am fervently praying for the Body of Christ to understand -- you may not see the similarity between the narrative in Genesis 6 and what the Global Future Congress 2045 and TransVision 2021 are promoting, but they are the same agenda! Satan lost his battle to keep man from being Saved by Jesus's act of going to the Cross. And that cost him his hope of complete sovereignty and dominion over the earth. Jesus defied Death, and His resurrection is now our promise that we not only don't have to submit to the rulership of Satan on the earth during this lifetime, but it is the promise of our victory in the next life; a new spiritual life with Jesus; ruling and reigning for all eternity.

But Satan isn't giving up that easy! His ploy to use corrupted DNA [to keep Jesus from being the perfect atonement for our sins] may have failed, but now he's got a plan that could deny us eternal life. If the human race decides to exchange our spiritual and eternal inheritance in Heaven for technological immortality here on earth, then God will no longer recognize us as His son or daughter. Those who lead us down that path despise God and our relationship with the One who created us in His image. [Sounds a lot like the mindset of Satan when he tempted Adam and Eve, doesn't it]? They suggest that we can live forever without God, and in turn "become our own gods" through enhanced cyber intelligence. But the results of that wicked endeavor will be no different from "as it was in the days of Noah".

Just as God sent The Flood to wipe out the evil plans of the dark angels to corrupt the biology of His creation, so will He stop this perverted assault on our biological design in the 21st Century. The Body of Christ is waking up to the covert efforts to transform us into something we were never meant to be. We recognize that Science has not replaced God. But there are still far too many Christians who will allow the spirit of fear to coerce them into a decision that will bear grave consequences for their eternal future. The advancements in Neuroengineering, Brain-Computer interfaces, and Cypernetic immortality are truly terrifying! And I honestly don't know for how much longer we will have the liberty of making a free-will choice. But for me, I will pass on the new bio-technology, and wait for Jesus's return. I choose eternal life in my glorified body. The last thing I want to hear my Lord and Savior say is, "I don't recognize you!"

Isaiah 43:10-11     ".... Before Me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after Me.  I, I am the Lord, and besides Me there is no Savior."

 

 

 

The Valley Of Decision

As I walked our property early this morning, I was praying so earnestly. There seemed so much to talk to God about. Just in the last two days, I have learned of far too many deaths, hospitalizations, and people in quarantine. Then there was the news coming out of Kabul, Afghanistan. It was early, and the reports were unconfirmed, but my soul and spirit knew it wasn't going to end well. The temptation with all this was to become overwhelmed with sadness, frustration, and yes, anger. But then I would focus on the beautiful creation all around me as I walked... bees pollinating the brilliantly-colored morning glories; the ripples of frogs in the tank; the complex patterns of the spider webs I passed; the lushness of the vegetation and undergrowth after the rain we received yesterday, and the playfulness of the three-week old kittens as they frolicked on the deck. All that re-focused my spirit back on God.

I poured out my heart to Him and prayed, asking for His will to be done in all the areas that I'd expressed dismay and anguish over. I knew He heard me, but then I decided it was time to listen to Him, so I asked Him for a word of knowledge. I asked Him to show me or tell me what He wanted me to know, or what He wanted me to share. And what popped into my head was "The Valley of Decision". I know what my immediate thoughts were, but I wanted to know what He meant by responding to my request. As it turned out, they are connected, yet separate truths.

First, what my heart and head thinks when I hear those words is not the context in which "The Valley of Decision" is mentioned in the Bible. And I will present that concept next, but I want to stress that my personal thoughts may not reflect the context of Scripture, but they are still Biblical and true. So, here is what I want you to know: Whether you believe in God, or not; or the Bible, or not, there is a Truth that  Good and Evil exist in the world, and every single person must make a decision which side he or she is going to be loyal to. There is a destination for everyone after they die, and your decision in this life determines where you will spend the rest of eternity.

It is no longer possible or productive to stick our heads in the sand and pretend that things will return or go on as normal; that what the world is experiencing is just "a bump in the road of history". If you choose to follow that path, then you will simply be swept up in the pressure to "go along to get along"; or to follow the masses. If you are not willing to take a good, hard look at the dividing line between Good and Evil, then you will be susceptible to false narratives, hoping things will level out, only to be led into destruction by the rebellious evil-doers. It's not enough to be a "good person" or be nice to everyone. You can't walk the middle line and hope to be counted as choosing one side or the other. It's not a question of being balanced. You must clearly define your position! To try to walk that line and make no decision for Good, is a decision. You will be counted among the apostate; one who refused to make a decision.

There is a Truth that there is a very real Book of Life in the possession of our Creator. Those who choose to follow the righteous Creator of the Universe will have their names written in that Book of Life. Those who choose to reject Him will decide to follow Satan, the once beautiful Angel [of the highest order] who used his free will to rebel because of pride and conceit. Right now it is becoming increasingly apparent who has chosen to believe his false promises of power, wealth, and immortality. And it will soon appear as if they and their evil ways will triumph and prevail over those who decided to choose God. They will persecute the God-choosers; perpetuating their evil and intolerance against our choice. We will soon be called upon to exhibit more courage, faith, perseverance, wisdom, and unwavering loyalty than ever before in history. It will be a time of sacrifice and martyrs. I know that's  not what you want to hear, but as a Watchman on the Wall, I am entrusted by God to warn you in Truth and Spirit. It is time for the people of the earth to make a decision!

Now, I mentioned that there is God's perspective on the Valley of Decision, and that is something that is equally important for us to discern. Here is what the Bible says about this perspective: Joel 3:14 says, Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision (judgment)! For the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision [when judgment is executed].  This verse is not describing the fate of humans whose lives are hanging in the balance because they are trying to decide if they are going to choose God or not. When you consider the context of this entire chapter of Joel, it becomes apparent that God is speaking about His decisions to judge the nations for their treatment of His chosen people, Israel. The decision is being made by God, not the people who are being judged. At this moment of time in Joel, the door has already closed for humans to make their decision, and it is God who is going to judge the peoples/nations who have not chosen Him. It is interesting that the translation of the Septuagint reads, the "valley of punishment" or the "valley of vengeance". Therefore, this time of God's decision is happening at the time of the future Judgment Day. 

Ultimately, we must rightly discern that, in Joel 3:14, the Valley of Decision is not about humans making a decision for God -- although that is a reality that must be executed -- but is rather about God making a decision about His judgement of people. The Son of Man will soon come in His glory, and all the holy angels, and He will sit on the throne of His glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him. And as the Good Shepherd, He will separate the nations, dividing His sheep from Satan's goats. You want to be counted among the sheep! So, here is an inescapable truth that cannot be denied ... the door for Decision [by both man and God] is closing. The ultimate plan of God to restore the earth to His Dominion is fast approaching. God will soon make His decision ... Have you made yours?

Joshua 24:15    And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. 

 

Genesis ... The Creation [and Re-Creation] of the Earth

In case you are wondering why I am so focused on the Book of Genesis in this season of time and in this series of posts, it is because this book sets the stage for the rest of the Bible, as well as the history of mankind. If you have a discerning spirit, then you are probably wondering about the state of the world and this nation, and may be confused about how we got here. As I reveal some deeper truths within Genesis, I believe that the present state of affairs will become clearer. So hang with me, as I follow the rabbit trail through man's earliest history and pick up the puzzle pieces along the way!

Today, I want to share my thoughts on the "gap theory". That's the controversial and disputed premise that there is an undetermined gap of time between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2. If you've never heard of this argument, I'm not surprised. This thought is usually ignored by the mainstream Church, or at least relegated to the "New Age" or "Unbiblical" category of Christian apologetics.

But, I do not think we should intentionally disregard it, especially when you approach it from a serious desire to understand God's creation of this planet we live on. And, for me, it shows an important facet of God's character. So, let's just dive in. In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. How many of you, like me, took this verse for granted for far too long? That verse is easy and straightforward, I told myself. What more could there be to understanding that simple sentence? We know God created the universe, which exists of heaven and earth. What more could I possibly derive from this first verse of the most important book ever written for mankind?

Well, let me share what a heightened curiosity and diligent study can provide. I credit much of what I'm about to share to the immense amount of time that my husband, Mark, has put into developing his Biblical worldview. And it all started when a dear friend that he was trying to reach for Christ asked him a question about where the dinosaurs fit into the Bible -- and he couldn't answer it. That deeply troubled him, so he made a decision that he would never again be at a loss to explain what our Bible reveals about God or his character. That led to a several-year-long study of trying to understand the original language of the Bible and filter it through the versions we have today. So, as he would tell you himself, don't take what I share today as me saying you should believe the research that he [or anyone else] has done. Instead, let it spark your own hunger and do your own investigation to come up with your own biblical worldview. In these days of secular, religious, and political push-back, it will serve you and the Kingdom of God well to know what you believe and why.

That said, let's begin at the beginning .... literally. In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. So, when was the beginning? The beginning of what? Time, the universe, or the beginning of God? I will tell you that once you step into this deeper realm of thought, you can't ever read the Bible the same way again! What I have discovered is that God not only created time, but He is outside of it. He's always been! So, this "beginning" is not the beginning of time, but to my mind, this is a specific moment in time when He began to consider creating the heavens and the earth. It's referring to the starting point in the expanse of boundless time when God conceived of the idea of heaven and earth. 

"In the beginning" in Hebrew is Bereshith, and the correct use of the word is in an "old world" or previously existing world/old world context. Fully exegeted, it translates "what can be seen before this age was created". If this understanding is accepted, that means the Bible is referring to a time period before Adam and before Lucifer's fall from Heaven, and before the earliest time of this earth.

Next, do we understand what is meant by the word "God"? In the Hebrew, that word is translated Elohim, and it is plural. It is the Divine Ones reflecting divine majesty and power ... Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, all involved in the creation. In the Hebrew understanding, it is also acknowledged to be not only God, the Creator and Ruler of the World, but "superhuman beings including God and angels, who are called "sons of God" or "sons of gods [angels]". If that's not blowing your mind yet, this idea of Elohim will come into play later in that most contentious of verses, Genesis 6:1-4. For now, let us stay concentrated on the creation of the heavens and earth.

Which takes us to that powerful word "created". It is Bara in Hebrew and means "to create from nothing". Only the Supreme God of the Universe could do that. He didn't take something that already existed and form the heavens and earth. He spoke it into existence! As men, we can only create by starting with matter that YHWH created. He used no pre-existing matter or ideas from an earlier creation. He declared them to be, and they were. 

Now we take a look at the heavens and earth. Heavens is plural and exists of the three heavens the Bible reveals to us. The first heaven is our sky and atmosphere (Genesis 6:7 and James 5:18). The second heaven is beyond our atmosphere and extends into the realm where spiritual warfare takes place between Satan's angels and God's angels (Matthew 24:29 and Ephesians 6:12-13). The third heaven is where God resides and where His and Jesus's thrones are (Deuteronomy 10:14, Hebrews 8:1, Acts 7:55, and Hebrews 9:24). In Genesis 1:1, the Hebrew word for "earth" is Eretz, and is translated land or material world. If you can wrap your mind around all that, then hang on because next we're going to tackle Genesis 1:2!

It reads, The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. As we break it down in the Hebrew, I think you are going to be astounded at the picture that begins to emerge. The words "without form" are translated tohuw in Hebrew, while the word "void" is translated as bohuw.  In English, tohuw and bohuw is rendered "a desolate wasteland; an empty ruin; formed out of chaos; an indistinguishable ruin". Does that sound like a place that God would consider worthy of establishing His Garden of Eden or placing His creation of man? If today, we consider ourselves ambassadors of the Kingdom of God on earth, then this desolate place in Genesis 1:2 is not worthy of being a representation of God's Heavenly Kingdom! So what happened?

Scripture goes on to tell us that darkness was over the face of the deep. The Hebrew word for darkness is chosek, and it means "misery; destruction; death; sorrow; and wickedness". I'm sure that none of you think God would speak that into existence as a representation of His creative spirit! If His creation becomes "dark" [desolate, empty, a ruin, and chaotic], then we can pretty well understand that it was corrupted by evil -- in this case, most likely Lucifer being expelled from Heaven and cast down to make this pre-existing habitat his home base. Furthermore, there is an understanding that chosek means an evil that is combined or linked with judgment.

The word "deep" is the Hebrew word tehom, meaning an abyss (as in a surging mass of water). The rest of verse 2 tells us the Holy Spirit was "hovering" over the face [surface] of these surging waters. The word "hovering" means "a shaking or a tempest" in Hebrew. So we get a pretty precise picture of what Genesis 1:1 and 1:2 are trying to show us. These two disputed verses seem to suggest a pre-existent world that was covered in evil darkness and which the Holy Spirit shook in judgment. I say all this because it appears, beginning in verse 3, that God is creating a new world which He calls Earth. But He already created it in verse 1, right? Read Genesis 1:1 and 1:2 again. This earth [lower case "e"] is declared a ruin, evil, and dark. God saw the Earth [capital "E"] in Genesis 1:9 and declared it "good". It wasn't good in 1:2! Death and wickedness existed there! They don't exist yet in 1:9 until Adam and Eve sin in the Garden. And they haven't even been created yet!

After hours and days and months of study and research, I believe that something devastating and evil happened to God's created earth between verse 1 and verse 2 in Genesis, Chapter 1. The earth came under judgment and God decided to re-create it beginning in verse 3. I do not think He destroyed the first earth. I think He just renewed it and restored it, just as He will at the end of the Millennial Age, as noted in Revelation 21. Think about it this way .... when we come to Christ in our Salvation experience, we are not destroyed. We become "a new creation"; remolded and reshaped into the original design God had planned for us. So, it is in the case of the earth in Genesis. 

I don't know about you, but this account and understanding has so much depth and meaning that I find myself even more in awe of God Almighty. And wait until I take you on the next step of this journey where we will take a deeper look at what was set in motion in the Garden of Eden. You will see a bigger picture than a snake and an apple, and a bigger understanding of how it has affected all of history. You will be able to recognize the weight of what God shared with man and how that knowledge is still in play this very day. You will not hear the nightly news in the same way ever again! So be prepared for a huge wake-up call in the next post as more of the conflict between man and God comes into view.

Isaiah 65:17   For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth,
and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind.

 

What Does The Lord Require Of A Nation?

At the end of my last post, I made the following statement: "We must recognize that our God and His ways are eternal; they are unchanging. And the words He spoke through His messenger Micah, nearly 2800 years ago, still ring true." If you read that post, and if you have taken the time to read the short Book of Micah, then you cannot deny that God spoke through the prophet Micah about ancient Israel's persistent rebellion and wickedness. The prophet made it clear that the earth and all men in it should be aware that the Lord God will be a witness against those who choose evil over righteousness. Micah particularly spoke against those who would use their social or political power for personal gain.

Micah warned that God would come down from His Holy Temple in Heaven and "tread upon the high places" and the worship of false idols. The Bible issues a strong warning against the oppressors, saying God is going "to devise disaster from which the rebellious will not be able to remove their necks". The rebellious nation will no longer walk in haughtiness [acting arrogantly superior and disdainful], "for it will be a time of disaster". 

Rulers and prophets of a nation who hate good and love evil will be denounced for all the sin they have engaged in; for the depraved and cruel things they have perpetrated. The Bible makes it clear God will bring a day of retribution for the leaders and prophets "who lead His people astray". There will be retributive justice for leaders who cry "Peace" to those who feed and bribe them, but declare war against those who are unable to put anything into their gluttonous mouths. In those days, says Micah, "the day shall be black" over such leaders; they shall be put to shame, and "there is no answer from God".

We must take these warnings from this ancient prophet seriously. It is folly for us Christians to think that the words spoken to ancient Israel and Judah do not apply to our beloved nation. And it is equally foolish and reckless to ignore the sins of our nation that are right before our eyes ... if we care to look at them. Remember ... as I told you in the last post, our God is Immutable. He does not change His character. The nature of His moral qualities are the same today as they were 2800 years ago when He spoke through Micah. Yes, there were good and righteous followers of Jehovah in that day, just as there are today. But we must not think ourselves and our nation superior to the rebellious kings and their followers in Micah's day just because we've had centuries of human inventions that have made our lives more convenient. We may be more technically and industrially advanced, but that doesn't make us more obedient to God. Nor should we consider ourselves more "spiritually" superior because we think we have figured out all there is to understanding God. We must not let our pride elevate us above those we think less worthy. If anything, I'm afraid mankind has raised the philosophies of humanism and rationalism above a belief in a sovereign, supernatural God. 

NOTE: Humanism emphasizes man's potential apart from any supernatural Being, and makes man the moral authority in both the individual and society; we are all able and responsible to lead lives that are personally fulfilling while also contributing to the greater good of society. Rationalism is the philosophy that reason and experience should be the basis of our opinions and actions, instead of any religious or spiritual belief system. In other words, there is no moral absolute, such as the Bible. Whatever seems right to the individual, will be his or her standard for behavior.  As a character in a fiction book I'm reading, says, "It would be best for men to deal decently with one another in accordance with God's principles. But what are we to do if we have men to whom God is of no account?" I think we can all see how far that is from God's plan, mandates and statutes. 

There is plenty in the ancient Book of Micah, and in our modern understanding of how far we have strayed from God's righteous principles, to warrant concern over how God regards our nation and the world. And if you do not understand that Jesus is throughout the Old Testament, and along with God, the Father, took a stand against disobedience and man's refusal to stay faithful to a covenant with his Creator, then you probably find it difficult to read the whole counsel of God in the Bible. But I'm not here to just sound the alarm against rebellion. I also want everyone to know there is HOPE! 

In the same chapter of Micah that the prophet repeats the Lord's warnings against the Rulers and Prophets, this bold prophet also declares, "But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob [Israel] his transgression, and to Israel his sin." Will not God give us the same power, justice, and might, because we are filled the Holy Spirit? We can call upon our leaders to lean on the Lord and return to His ways and walk in His paths. 

Throughout the Bible's long history we get a picture of God's justice in juxtaposition to His power and grace to save a remnant for His Name's sake. In the words of the 19th Century Christian theologian Charles Ellicott, "The thundercloud of darkness that descended upon sin again and again was always contrasted with a glimpse of sunlight through the storm clouds." From Noah to Isaiah, to Jeremiah, Paul, and John, in the Book of Revelation -- there is a picture of God's righteous anger, condemnation and wrath followed by His declaration to deliver and save a remnant, chosen by grace. Micah is no different. And because we are created by an Immutable God, the standards He held for all those who have come before us, are the same standards He holds for us. The violence, greed and deceitfulness of powerful men is leading to a demoralized state among mankind. Freedoms that Christ died to give us are being eroded and we see children treating their parents with contempt; as Micah says, a man's enemies are the men of his own house.

So, while we can look at the history of the Bible and see that the leaders and the people did not listen to their watchmen concerning the coming judgment and wrath, we can also see that the watchmen never stopped declaring their confidence in the Lord to deliver a remnant. And as much as we want to believe that all the world will come to the Light of the Lord, the Bible doesn't tell us that. Yes, the Gospel of the Kingdom is going out to all the world and then the end [of the kingdom of darkness] will come as the Lord descends from His throne -- but that does not tell us that all the world will receive the hope that is in the Kingdom; just that they were given the opportunity to hear and accept the promises that come with Salvation to enter the Kingdom.

I think I am not the only whose spirit discerns a terrible wickedness that is coming. And if we are able to learn the lessons from our Bible, then we know that it is time to repent and mourn lost opportunities; and to know the possibility that God may once again, in His Sovereignty, decide to consign our deserved punishment to our enemies. Just as Nebuchadnezzar and the king of Assyria carried out God's discipline against His beloved but faithless people, so might He deliver us into the hands of our enemies -- if we do not repent and return to Him. But are our wounds incurable? Are we doomed? The Destroyer is approaching. We should not be concentrating on the trouble in our enemies' cities, but need to bewail it in our own.

It is my earnest desire that all who stumble across this little blog will take notice of God's promises of both His Justice and His Deliverance. Take heart! We will see marvelous and miraculous things! Our enemies will eventually be defeated! There will be a remnant for His inheritance because He does not retain His anger forever. He delights in His steadfast love for those who seek Him in perseverance and righteousness. He will be faithful to tread all of our iniquities underfoot and cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. He will gather both Jew and Gentile to His bosom, as we, [all who remained the faithful remnant] reap the rewards of not bending our knee to the Enemy. Hang on, it's going to be a bumpy ride and rocky path we journey on, but if we hold to our testimony of Jesus, [and Him alone], we are assured of participating "in that day [when] the Lord of hosts will be a crown of glory, and a diadem of beauty, to the remnant of His people." The Lord, Himself, will come to lead His remnant of faithful children in a triumphant procession! Hallelujah!

Micah 6:8     He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

  

My Responsibility To Speak of the Fullness of God

In 2008, when it was prophesied over me that I was to "be the pen and not the blank piece of paper", I clearly understood that I was to use my gift of expression and writing to please God, the One who created me to write. I started small and privately; committing to write for two hours each day, while sharpening and improving my skills. At the end of two-and-a-half years, I had a novel of fiction. The sole purpose of that exercise was that I learned to hear the voice of God as He steered me through character development, plot, and direction of the book. There were days when I sat down to write and had no idea where my storyline was going, and two hours later I had written pages that just seemed to flow from somewhere inside me. To this day, that is the same process (and joy) I get from writing ... being able to share what God's Spirit speaks to my spirit.

Today, 13 years later, that's still how it works. But now, instead of a make-believe narrative, He speaks to me of more serious matters; subjects that align with His heart and that affect the lives of millions like me, who seek His counsel on how to navigate the perilous times in which we live. This blog is just one of the tools He has given me. This weekend my husband Mark and I will be leading a little mini-conference for a remnant of God's faithful who are willing to hear what so many cannot bear to look at. 

As I've written recently, Revival is on the tongue of nearly every modern-day prophet. And I wholeheartedly agree that God desires heartfelt revival among His people on earth; and it should be our desire, too! But we cannot ignore that historically, revival has often come, after a season of persecution and tribulation. And what Mark and I have been hearing from the Lord is, "Prepare the people". Prepare them for what? As I have struggled to make sure I am representing His commandment correctly and clearly, what I have discerned is this: God wants to prepare people for the "fullness" of Jesus's righteousness. Well, what does that look like?

The Church today likes to equate the righteousness of the Lord with His grace and mercy and sacrificial love -- all true and Scriptural characteristics. Jesus's righteousness is exemplified in His purity, His goodness, and His blameless nature. But there's another side to His righteousness that proclaims the Father's redemptive plan for mankind ... The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil (1 John 3:8). Just as we are to partner with the Father and the Son to speak of [and to walk out] their love, mercy and compassion in order to speak of the Saving Grace of Jesus Christ, we are also to speak out that God desires our partnership in expanding the Kingdom of God on earth and defeating Satan's kingdom of darkness!

Yes, it is true that God so loved the world, that He gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16) and we put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24). It is my responsibility to share and express those truths as a recipient of God's love. But it is equally true this same Jesus who came as the Suffering Servant and Friend of mankind, will return as a Conquering King, intent on making war. It is equally my responsibility to speak of this facet of His nature [to the world], as well.

Revelation 19:11-16 describes Him like this: And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who was riding it is called Faithful and True (trustworthy, loyal, incorruptible, steady), and in righteousness He judges and wages war [on the rebellious nations].  His eyes are a flame of fire, and on His head are many royal crowns; and He has a name inscribed [on Him] which no one knows or understands except Himself.  He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God.  And the armies of heaven, dressed in fine linen, [dazzling] white and clean, followed Him on white horses. From His mouth comes a sharp sword (His word) with which He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He will tread the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty [in judgment of the rebellious world].  And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name inscribed, “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”

It is important for the Body of Christ to understand the totality of Jesus -- He is both Savior and Lord! As Savior, Jesus shed His own blood for the redemption of mankind; for me and you and all those who choose to receive Him as Master of our lives. As Lord, He will shed the blood of the wicked and evil for the judgment of mankind. Can you see both manifestations of His nature? Do you hear both sides of His nature expressed from the pulpit [or podcast]? If not, then I submit to you that we are not carrying out our full responsibilities to represent Him as children of God and ambassadors of His Kingdom.

At our mini-conference this weekend, Mark and I, along with other faithful representatives of the Kingdom of God, will attempt to bring the fullness of our God to this mighty and faithful remnant. We will share what we have heard as "watchmen on the wall", speaking what the Lord has revealed to us in our spirits, as well as what His Word clearly testifies of -- the good, the bad, the ugly, and yes, the scary. But the conference will conclude with how we as the Ekklesia here on earth can partake in the battle for righteousness on the earth; how we can use our giftings and the keys to the Kingdom that the Lord has given us. We will warn and we will encourage. We will speak of the manifestations of evil we can expect; and we will all speak of the power of Inner Healing, Forgiveness, Intercessory Prayer and Fasting; the power of meeting God face-to-face, and receiving a Word of Knowledge concerning our strategies and battle plans. 

World events seem to be careening out of control, and fear among men is increasing. But if we will hold fast to our covenant with the Lord and be prepared to speak His WHOLE truth, then we can be effective in our duty to proclaim Victory in Christ! The world needs us to walk upright in truth and spirit; rightly discerning the Word of God so that we might share it with all who will desperately need it. We should expect to be hated and must not shy away from proclaiming the full nature of our God and all that it will require of us. We need to speak of hope and love and joy in the Lord; but not remain silent regarding the efforts of the Enemy who will come to kill, steal and destroy those beautiful fruits of our faith. Let us be suited up in our spiritual armor and step on the battlefield.  As His Ekklesia we can war in the spirit, bind and loose on earth as it is in Heaven, and pray and fast for heavenly strategies to defeat the works of the devil. Let us be prepared! Our King and Commander is getting ready to mount for His ride!

 Revelation 1:7      Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes (nations) of the earth will mourn over Him [realizing their sin and guilt, and anticipating the coming wrath]. So it is to be. Amen.