A. When Jesus returns to earth, He will make a royal procession to His throne in Jerusalem. This will involve a 3-stage process which will include many events occurring over a 30 day period.
B. Stage 1: Jesus’ royal procession across the sky to rapture the Church and to be seen by every person on the earth (Mt. 24:30; Rev. 1:7). Every eye will see Jesus as His kingship is proclaimed with authority over each nation. This requires a global procession over every inhabited place.
7 He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him...all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him... (Rev. 1:7)
C. Every unbeliever will see Jesus clearly enough to have a deep emotional response of mourning. He will travel close enough to the earth and slowly enough across the sky for every unbeliever to see Him clearly enough to understand what is happening and to mourn over rejecting Him.
30 The Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds…with power and great glory. (Mt. 24:30)
D. Stage 2: Jesus’ royal procession on the land as He travels or marches through Edom or modern-day Jordan warring against the Antichrist’s armies on His way to Jerusalem (Isa. 63:1-6; Hab. 3:12; Ps. 110:5-6; 45:3-5). He will set foot on the earth (somewhere in the Middle East) and then march through Bozrah in Edom (Jordan) on His way to liberate Jerusalem (Rev. 19:11-21).
12 You marched through the land in indignation; You trampled the nations… (Hab. 3:12)
E. Stage 3: Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem through the Mount of Olives to be crowned king (Ps. 24:7-10; Jer. 3:17; Zech. 14:3-5; Rev. 19:11-21). Jesus will be celebrated as the Son of David in a coronation parade in Jerusalem and will be crowned King (Zech. 6:13; 14:9). The gates of Jerusalem will be opened to receive Jesus as their messianic King (Mt. 23:39).
7 Lift up your heads, O you gates [of Jerusalem]! The King of glory shall come in. 8 Who is this King…? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle [Armageddon]. (Ps. 24:7-8)
F. Jesus will lead a royal procession into Jerusalem as David did when he bought the ark into Jerusalem (2 Sam. 6). David merged the account of his procession into Jerusalem with the ark with a prophecy of Jesus’ procession into Jerusalem at His second coming (Ps. 68:24-33).
24 They have seen Your procession, O God, the procession of my God, my King, into the sanctuary...29 Because of Your Temple at Jerusalem, kings will bring presents to You...till everyone submits himself...scatter the peoples [nations] who delight in war…32 Sing to God, you kingdoms of the earth...33 To Him who rides on the heaven of heavens... (Ps. 68:24-33)
G. Jesus' royal procession will begin in the sky at the seventh trumpet (1 Cor. 15:52; Rev. 11:15) with the rapture and will end in Jerusalem. I refer to these events as Jesus’ royal procession because He will come in great glory and flaming fire and trumpet blasts. He comes with billions of angels and saints as He travels on clouds across the earth for all to see the overwhelming power of His kingship (Mt. 16:27; 24:29-31; 25:31; 1 Thes. 3:13; 4:14-16; 2 Thes. 1:8).
Monday, May 31, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Understanding End Times
A. The centerpiece of God’s eternal purpose is for Jesus to come back to establish His kingdom over all the earth as He joins the heavenly and earthly realms together. This is the interpretive key to understanding the end times. Without this foundational revelation, confusion is inevitable.
9 Made known to us the mystery of His will…10 that He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth. (Eph. 1:9-10)
B. Heaven speaks of the spiritual realm where God’s power and presence is openly manifest. Heaven is the place believers have gone for the last 2,000 years (the cross to the second coming) before receiving a resurrected body at the second coming to reign on earth (Rev. 5:10).
C. Earth speaks of the physical realm where human process, emotions and physical sensation reach their fullest expression. We see aspects of the natural and the supernatural dimensions operating together when Jesus appeared in His resurrected body to teach the apostles (Jn. 20-21; Acts 1:3).
D. God’s purpose has always been for His people to live together with Him in this way forever.
3 Behold, the Tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them… (Rev. 21:3)
E. There will be 3 types of people when Jesus appears in the sky to rapture the Church.
1) The redeemed who will be raptured during Jesus’ procession across the sky.
2) The reprobate who took the mark of the Beast will be judged and then killed.
3) The resisters are the unsaved survivors of the tribulation who refused to worship the Antichrist called “those who are left” or “who remain.” (Isa. 4:3; 10:20; 11:11; 49:6; 65:8; 66:19; Jer. 31:2; Ezek. 20:38-42; 36:36; Dan. 12:1; Amos 9:9-10; Joel 2:32; Zech. 12:14; 13:8; 14:16).
F. Jesus’ coming will be in context to a military conflict. He will travel through the city of Bozrah in Edom (Jordan) crushing the armies of the Antichrist on His way to liberate Jerusalem in the Battle of Jerusalem which ends the Armageddon Campaign (which lasts for 3½ years).
11 Behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him…in righteousness He judges and makes war…13 He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood…14 And the armies in heaven…followed Him on white horses. 15 Out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations…He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God…
16 On His robe… is written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. (Rev. 19:11-16)
9 Made known to us the mystery of His will…10 that He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth. (Eph. 1:9-10)
B. Heaven speaks of the spiritual realm where God’s power and presence is openly manifest. Heaven is the place believers have gone for the last 2,000 years (the cross to the second coming) before receiving a resurrected body at the second coming to reign on earth (Rev. 5:10).
C. Earth speaks of the physical realm where human process, emotions and physical sensation reach their fullest expression. We see aspects of the natural and the supernatural dimensions operating together when Jesus appeared in His resurrected body to teach the apostles (Jn. 20-21; Acts 1:3).
D. God’s purpose has always been for His people to live together with Him in this way forever.
3 Behold, the Tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them… (Rev. 21:3)
E. There will be 3 types of people when Jesus appears in the sky to rapture the Church.
1) The redeemed who will be raptured during Jesus’ procession across the sky.
2) The reprobate who took the mark of the Beast will be judged and then killed.
3) The resisters are the unsaved survivors of the tribulation who refused to worship the Antichrist called “those who are left” or “who remain.” (Isa. 4:3; 10:20; 11:11; 49:6; 65:8; 66:19; Jer. 31:2; Ezek. 20:38-42; 36:36; Dan. 12:1; Amos 9:9-10; Joel 2:32; Zech. 12:14; 13:8; 14:16).
F. Jesus’ coming will be in context to a military conflict. He will travel through the city of Bozrah in Edom (Jordan) crushing the armies of the Antichrist on His way to liberate Jerusalem in the Battle of Jerusalem which ends the Armageddon Campaign (which lasts for 3½ years).
11 Behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him…in righteousness He judges and makes war…13 He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood…14 And the armies in heaven…followed Him on white horses. 15 Out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations…He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God…
16 On His robe… is written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. (Rev. 19:11-16)
Friday, May 21, 2010
What John Saw Overcame Him
2 Behold, a Throne set in heaven, and One sat on the Throne. (Rev. 4:2)
A. Behold! What John saw overcame him. We want to feel what John felt. John was awed at seeing a Throne before him. John’s spirit trembles as he is overloaded.
B. When John says, “Behold” he is seeing the purpose of his existence and the reason for his suffering and struggle. He is face to face with his purpose. It overwhelms him as the reason of his very being is before him. Our purpose is found in understanding the Throne and One sitting upon it. Our reason for being and our very relevance is only seen as we connect with this One.
25 He gives to all life…28 in Him we live and move and have our being… (Acts 17:25-28)
36 For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things… (Rom. 11:36)
11 "You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created." (Rev. 4:11)
9 Worthy are You to take the book...for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. (Rev. 5:9; NAS)
A. Behold! What John saw overcame him. We want to feel what John felt. John was awed at seeing a Throne before him. John’s spirit trembles as he is overloaded.
B. When John says, “Behold” he is seeing the purpose of his existence and the reason for his suffering and struggle. He is face to face with his purpose. It overwhelms him as the reason of his very being is before him. Our purpose is found in understanding the Throne and One sitting upon it. Our reason for being and our very relevance is only seen as we connect with this One.
25 He gives to all life…28 in Him we live and move and have our being… (Acts 17:25-28)
36 For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things… (Rom. 11:36)
11 "You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created." (Rev. 4:11)
9 Worthy are You to take the book...for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. (Rev. 5:9; NAS)
Monday, May 3, 2010
The One Who Sat on The Throne
2 Behold, a Throne set in heaven, and One sat on the Throne. (Rev. 4:2)
A. John sees a real Person on the Throne. He is One with fiery emotions and a vast intellect. What happens in our life and heart affects His heart. He cares for us as He sees and remembers our life and struggle. He feels joy or sadness related to our responses to Him. He feels our pain, sees our value, and plans our future blessing, prosperity and happiness. We are not alone. We will live together with Him forever. A real Person desires deep relationship and partnership with us.
B. He is not only omnipotent (all power) but is omniscient (all knowing). He knows everything and possesses perfect wisdom for every situation.
C. The Lord carefully takes notice of His friends as well as His enemies. This aspect of His Personhood is hated by the ungodly, but is pleasing to those who love Him. He is always watching us. We are always on His mind.
13 There is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. (Heb. 4:13)
3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on…evil and the good. (Prov. 15:3)
D. He has total clarity and fullness of insight into every dark secret. The all-seeing eye of God discerns our negative and positive qualities. His eyes see the yes in our spirit when we fail, more clearly than we do. He sees the cry in our heart to obey Him. Our decisions, victories, failures and struggles heart affects His heart. We may feel alone in this age, however, we really are not.
21 The ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD…He ponders all his paths. (Prov. 5:21)
23 All shall know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts… (Rev. 2:23).
E. He sees when we endure trials instead of giving up. He sees the positive. He rewards every small act of obedience, especially those hidden from the eyes of others (Mt.6:1-6, 16-18). He remembers and rewards (Heb.6:10). Even small acts, such as giving a cup of cold water, do not go unnoticed by the Lord (Mt. 10:42). Our knowledge of His omniscience persuades us against evil, knowing that it is vain to attempt to hide evil from Him.
F. God interprets all knowledge through the cleanness of His heart. A judge may know all the facts about a case. But if he has an unclean heart, he will misinterpret the information. God sees all without any distortion. His vision is clean. There is no exaggeration in what He perceives.
G. This One desires to be known intimately and enjoyed, not only obeyed and honored.
H. There is One who desires meaningful relevant partnership with His inferiors.
I. John saw the realm of life where all are God-centered. How awesome and unified this place is.
A. John sees a real Person on the Throne. He is One with fiery emotions and a vast intellect. What happens in our life and heart affects His heart. He cares for us as He sees and remembers our life and struggle. He feels joy or sadness related to our responses to Him. He feels our pain, sees our value, and plans our future blessing, prosperity and happiness. We are not alone. We will live together with Him forever. A real Person desires deep relationship and partnership with us.
B. He is not only omnipotent (all power) but is omniscient (all knowing). He knows everything and possesses perfect wisdom for every situation.
C. The Lord carefully takes notice of His friends as well as His enemies. This aspect of His Personhood is hated by the ungodly, but is pleasing to those who love Him. He is always watching us. We are always on His mind.
13 There is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. (Heb. 4:13)
3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on…evil and the good. (Prov. 15:3)
D. He has total clarity and fullness of insight into every dark secret. The all-seeing eye of God discerns our negative and positive qualities. His eyes see the yes in our spirit when we fail, more clearly than we do. He sees the cry in our heart to obey Him. Our decisions, victories, failures and struggles heart affects His heart. We may feel alone in this age, however, we really are not.
21 The ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD…He ponders all his paths. (Prov. 5:21)
23 All shall know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts… (Rev. 2:23).
E. He sees when we endure trials instead of giving up. He sees the positive. He rewards every small act of obedience, especially those hidden from the eyes of others (Mt.6:1-6, 16-18). He remembers and rewards (Heb.6:10). Even small acts, such as giving a cup of cold water, do not go unnoticed by the Lord (Mt. 10:42). Our knowledge of His omniscience persuades us against evil, knowing that it is vain to attempt to hide evil from Him.
F. God interprets all knowledge through the cleanness of His heart. A judge may know all the facts about a case. But if he has an unclean heart, he will misinterpret the information. God sees all without any distortion. His vision is clean. There is no exaggeration in what He perceives.
G. This One desires to be known intimately and enjoyed, not only obeyed and honored.
H. There is One who desires meaningful relevant partnership with His inferiors.
I. John saw the realm of life where all are God-centered. How awesome and unified this place is.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Behold A Throne Set in Heaven
A. Rev. 1-3, John saw Jesus and heard His last statement concerned the Church sitting on thrones (Rev. 3:21). John next mentions the Father’s Throne (Rev. 4). Scripture speaks of two Thrones,the Father’s Throne and Jesus’ Throne (at His right hand). The two Thrones manifest the one authority of God. The Throne speaks of God’s vast Empire or Kingdom.
21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My Throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His Throne. (Rev. 3:21)
9 "I watched till Thrones were put in place, and the Ancient of Days (Father) was seated…His Throne was a fiery flame…10 A fiery stream issued and came forth from before Him. A thousand thousands ministered to Him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him. The court was seated, and the books were opened. 11 I watched till the beast (Antichrist) was slain, and its body destroyed and given to the burning flame….13 "I was watching …behold, One like the Son of Man (Jesus), coming with the clouds…He came to the Ancient of Days…14 Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a Kingdom, that all peoples,nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom the one which shall not be destroyed. (Dan. 7:9-14)
B. God’s beauty is seen in His royal court where His Throne is set up. God’s Throne is like the “royal palace” of a king and is synonymous with the heavenly Temple. The Father's Throne shines forth with Jasper (diamond-like), Sardius brightness and flaming fire (Dan. 7:10). Jesus’ Throne is sapphire like the sea is around it (Ezek. 1:26; Ex. 24:10). Both Thrones are under the same emerald rainbow and are surrounded by the sapphire crystal Sea.
6 Honor and majesty are before Him; strength and beauty are in His sanctuary. (Ps. 96:6)
C. John sees One called, “Him who sits upon the Throne.” This is a mysterious title for One so eloquent. The great communicator of all the ages hides Himself in obscurity. He only hints about His glory throughout Revelation. He talks so little about Himself in the Book of the Revelation of Jesus. John sees the Father sitting in total confidence and security. None can challenge Him. This Throne has all power and cannot be conquered. He has dominion over all.
D. God’s Throne is good and establishes us in the fullness of joy forever. The glorious dream of happiness and joy will never end. It is the pinnacle of celebration of our intimacy with God.
4 God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away. (Rev. 21:4)
E. God’s Throne will sustain and unify us forever as it punishes evil and vindicates righteousness.
F. God’s Throne is forever. All that is accomplishes is forever permanent.
44 The God of heaven will set up a Kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and the Kingdom shall…break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever. (Dan. 2:44)
G. All the people of history will stand before God’s Throne.
11 I saw a great white Throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. 12 I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened…the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. 14 Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 Anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire. (Rev. 20:11-15)
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. (2 Cor. 5:10)
H. We have access to God’s Throne right now by prayer. This is the place that our prayers are received. The greatest expression of our destiny in this age and the age-to-come is manifest as we relate to God’s Throne on the Sea by worship and intercession.
21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My Throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His Throne. (Rev. 3:21)
9 "I watched till Thrones were put in place, and the Ancient of Days (Father) was seated…His Throne was a fiery flame…10 A fiery stream issued and came forth from before Him. A thousand thousands ministered to Him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him. The court was seated, and the books were opened. 11 I watched till the beast (Antichrist) was slain, and its body destroyed and given to the burning flame….13 "I was watching …behold, One like the Son of Man (Jesus), coming with the clouds…He came to the Ancient of Days…14 Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a Kingdom, that all peoples,nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom the one which shall not be destroyed. (Dan. 7:9-14)
B. God’s beauty is seen in His royal court where His Throne is set up. God’s Throne is like the “royal palace” of a king and is synonymous with the heavenly Temple. The Father's Throne shines forth with Jasper (diamond-like), Sardius brightness and flaming fire (Dan. 7:10). Jesus’ Throne is sapphire like the sea is around it (Ezek. 1:26; Ex. 24:10). Both Thrones are under the same emerald rainbow and are surrounded by the sapphire crystal Sea.
6 Honor and majesty are before Him; strength and beauty are in His sanctuary. (Ps. 96:6)
C. John sees One called, “Him who sits upon the Throne.” This is a mysterious title for One so eloquent. The great communicator of all the ages hides Himself in obscurity. He only hints about His glory throughout Revelation. He talks so little about Himself in the Book of the Revelation of Jesus. John sees the Father sitting in total confidence and security. None can challenge Him. This Throne has all power and cannot be conquered. He has dominion over all.
D. God’s Throne is good and establishes us in the fullness of joy forever. The glorious dream of happiness and joy will never end. It is the pinnacle of celebration of our intimacy with God.
4 God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away. (Rev. 21:4)
E. God’s Throne will sustain and unify us forever as it punishes evil and vindicates righteousness.
F. God’s Throne is forever. All that is accomplishes is forever permanent.
44 The God of heaven will set up a Kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and the Kingdom shall…break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever. (Dan. 2:44)
G. All the people of history will stand before God’s Throne.
11 I saw a great white Throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. 12 I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened…the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. 14 Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 Anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire. (Rev. 20:11-15)
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. (2 Cor. 5:10)
H. We have access to God’s Throne right now by prayer. This is the place that our prayers are received. The greatest expression of our destiny in this age and the age-to-come is manifest as we relate to God’s Throne on the Sea by worship and intercession.
Monday, April 19, 2010
A Throne and One Who Sat on It
I was in the Spirit and behold, a Throne set in heaven, and One sat on the Throne. (Rev. 4:2)
A. John sees God’s Throne which is far more powerful than the throne of the Roman empire that was crushing Israel and the Church. John sees the Throne and the Person who has total authority over Rome and Satan’s kingdom. This revelation brings great confidence to us. A key focus in the Book of Revelation is God's Throne (referred to 40 times).
B. This “set Throne” is set forever. It is not a temporary power like the Roman Empire. God’s Throne guarantees us that all of God’s plans will come to pass. God’s Throne assures us that our destiny cannot be stopped, thus we cannot fail as we relate to Him with faith and obedience. God’s will in our life cannot be stopped by Satan, demons or men.
C. The Throne guarantees the certainty of God’s plans. The Throne of God is referred to 40 times in the book of Revelation. The Throne pictures God as the ruler over everything; the One who conquers everything. Nothing can resist it and overcome it; it's the highest of all. There are seven Throne scenes in Revelation (4:2-6:17; 7:9-17; 11:15-19; 14: 1-5; 15: 2-8; 19:1-8; 21:1-22:9).
D. John sees a real Person on the Throne at the governmental center of the universe. A Person with fiery emotions, a vast intellect and who possesses all power, and is 100% observant as He watches over and cares for us. He is a Person who sees, cares, remembers and feels joy or sadness related to our responses to Him. What happens in our life and heart affects His heart. He feels our pain, sees our value, and plans our welfare. We are not alone; we will live together with Him. There is One who desires meaningful partnership with His inferiors.
A. John sees God’s Throne which is far more powerful than the throne of the Roman empire that was crushing Israel and the Church. John sees the Throne and the Person who has total authority over Rome and Satan’s kingdom. This revelation brings great confidence to us. A key focus in the Book of Revelation is God's Throne (referred to 40 times).
B. This “set Throne” is set forever. It is not a temporary power like the Roman Empire. God’s Throne guarantees us that all of God’s plans will come to pass. God’s Throne assures us that our destiny cannot be stopped, thus we cannot fail as we relate to Him with faith and obedience. God’s will in our life cannot be stopped by Satan, demons or men.
C. The Throne guarantees the certainty of God’s plans. The Throne of God is referred to 40 times in the book of Revelation. The Throne pictures God as the ruler over everything; the One who conquers everything. Nothing can resist it and overcome it; it's the highest of all. There are seven Throne scenes in Revelation (4:2-6:17; 7:9-17; 11:15-19; 14: 1-5; 15: 2-8; 19:1-8; 21:1-22:9).
D. John sees a real Person on the Throne at the governmental center of the universe. A Person with fiery emotions, a vast intellect and who possesses all power, and is 100% observant as He watches over and cares for us. He is a Person who sees, cares, remembers and feels joy or sadness related to our responses to Him. What happens in our life and heart affects His heart. He feels our pain, sees our value, and plans our welfare. We are not alone; we will live together with Him. There is One who desires meaningful partnership with His inferiors.
Monday, April 12, 2010
The Need to Encounter God's Beauty
4 One thing I have desired of the LORD, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the House of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple. (Ps. 27:4)
A. Why do we need to understand God’s beauty? The Spirit is orchestrating a worldwide prophetic worship and prayer movement that is essential in releasing God’s power to the nations before Jesus’ Second Coming. This movement is fueled by the revelation of Jesus’ beauty. Isaiah prophesied that the revelation of Jesus’ beauty would be revealed in the generation He returns.
B. The subject of God’s beauty is the same as the subject of His holiness and glory. There is a compelling power in the revelation of beauty. It answers an ache in our soul that was put there by God. We cannot live to our fullest spiritually without the revelation of beauty. Beauty is intrinsic to our emotional and spiritual health. It is a vast subject.
C. The pursuit of the deep things of the knowledge of God is the highest and most difficult reality in the Spirit. It is the Mt. Everest of the Kingdom of God. The study of God’s beauty takes time and work. It comes slowly. Do not be impatient, but persevere with a marathon pace as you mine for gold. Our life is a long treasure hunt into God’s beauty.
D. Revelation 4 and 5 give us the highest revelation of God’s beauty in Scripture. They describe the Holy of Holies of the Eternal City. God could have put anything around His Throne that He wanted. What the beautiful God put around Himself expresses His beauty to creation. It is all very purposeful. I call Rev. 4-5, the “beauty realm of God” and the “heavenly symphony.” Here we see that the great Governmental Prayer Center of the universe is fueled by God’s beauty.
E. Rev. 4:1-7, describes the 15 “doorways” into understanding God’s beauty as seen in His governmental center. Here are 15 main aspects that point to God’s beauty.
1. The ultimate reality: God’s life, Throne, and Person (Rev. 4:2)
2. The beauty of God: what He looks like, feels like, and acts like (Rev. 4:3)
3. The beauty of God’s partners: the Church enthroned, robed, and crowned (Rev. 4:4)
4. The beauty of God’s power: manifestations of power (lightning, thunder, sounds (Rev. 4:5a)
5. The beauty of the Spirit’s fire: on the Throne, the seraphim and the saints (Rev. 4:5b-7; 15:2)
1 Behold, a door standing open in heaven….the first voice which I heard was like a trumpet…saying, "Come up here, and I will show you things which must take place." 2 I was in the Spirit and…Throne set in heaven, and One sat on the Throne. 3 He…was like a jasper and a sardius stone…there was a rainbow around the Throne…4 Around the Throne were 24 Thrones…I saw 24 elders...in white robes; they had crowns…5 From the Throne proceeded lightnings, thunderings, and voices. Seven lamps of fire were burning... 6 Before the Throne there was a sea of glass…around the Throne, were four living creatures… (Rev. 4:1-6)
A. Why do we need to understand God’s beauty? The Spirit is orchestrating a worldwide prophetic worship and prayer movement that is essential in releasing God’s power to the nations before Jesus’ Second Coming. This movement is fueled by the revelation of Jesus’ beauty. Isaiah prophesied that the revelation of Jesus’ beauty would be revealed in the generation He returns.
B. The subject of God’s beauty is the same as the subject of His holiness and glory. There is a compelling power in the revelation of beauty. It answers an ache in our soul that was put there by God. We cannot live to our fullest spiritually without the revelation of beauty. Beauty is intrinsic to our emotional and spiritual health. It is a vast subject.
C. The pursuit of the deep things of the knowledge of God is the highest and most difficult reality in the Spirit. It is the Mt. Everest of the Kingdom of God. The study of God’s beauty takes time and work. It comes slowly. Do not be impatient, but persevere with a marathon pace as you mine for gold. Our life is a long treasure hunt into God’s beauty.
D. Revelation 4 and 5 give us the highest revelation of God’s beauty in Scripture. They describe the Holy of Holies of the Eternal City. God could have put anything around His Throne that He wanted. What the beautiful God put around Himself expresses His beauty to creation. It is all very purposeful. I call Rev. 4-5, the “beauty realm of God” and the “heavenly symphony.” Here we see that the great Governmental Prayer Center of the universe is fueled by God’s beauty.
E. Rev. 4:1-7, describes the 15 “doorways” into understanding God’s beauty as seen in His governmental center. Here are 15 main aspects that point to God’s beauty.
1. The ultimate reality: God’s life, Throne, and Person (Rev. 4:2)
2. The beauty of God: what He looks like, feels like, and acts like (Rev. 4:3)
3. The beauty of God’s partners: the Church enthroned, robed, and crowned (Rev. 4:4)
4. The beauty of God’s power: manifestations of power (lightning, thunder, sounds (Rev. 4:5a)
5. The beauty of the Spirit’s fire: on the Throne, the seraphim and the saints (Rev. 4:5b-7; 15:2)
1 Behold, a door standing open in heaven….the first voice which I heard was like a trumpet…saying, "Come up here, and I will show you things which must take place." 2 I was in the Spirit and…Throne set in heaven, and One sat on the Throne. 3 He…was like a jasper and a sardius stone…there was a rainbow around the Throne…4 Around the Throne were 24 Thrones…I saw 24 elders...in white robes; they had crowns…5 From the Throne proceeded lightnings, thunderings, and voices. Seven lamps of fire were burning... 6 Before the Throne there was a sea of glass…around the Throne, were four living creatures… (Rev. 4:1-6)
Monday, April 5, 2010
End Time Conflict Over Jesus
A. In the End-Times there will be a battle for the truth about Jesus. Some believers will give heed to doctrines that lie about Jesus. The conflict will center on defining who Jesus is and how we love Him. We must love God on His terms. It is expressed with allegiance to the Jesus of the Bible.
B. Allegiance to Jesus is our main issue along with being lovers of His truth (2 Thes. 2:10). Tolerance is the main issue in the counterfeit forerunner movements to the Harlot Babylon. We greatly value the people in different religions. They possess great dignity before God. We are not willing to let them perish in hell by refusing to tell them the truth about Jesus and His salvation.
C. Three truths about Jesus that offend humanists include; first, His deity and thus His right to establish absolute standards for which the nations are accountable to Him. Jesus does NOT accept humanistic views of righteousness and love. Second, the only way of salvation is through Jesus. Third, He possesses the wisdom and love to judge sin for all time and eternity.
D. Anyone who confesses the name of Jesus must stand for His deity and for His way of salvation. If they do not, then they are operating under the spirit of a false prophet. This is true of famous people who work in the White House, host talk shows, fill stadiums with concerts for the poor or lead mega-churches. We must apologize to Jesus for so much man-pleasing preaching with lies.
E. There are counterfeit forerunners who are preparing the nations to embrace the Harlot Babylon. These false forerunners tell lies about Jesus. Some are not yet false prophets but they operate in the same spirit as one. Some of them are still in the balance. The issue is not about being positive or negative but it is about being faithful witnesses to the truth. We are not running for office; however we are His messengers who will give an account at the Judgment Seat of Christ.
F. The End-Time Praying Church is to steward the greatest hope and justice movement in history. We have a far superior hope than any humanistic movements. Forerunners are the greatest hopebringers in history. They will be filled with love (purity and humility), do deeds of compassion while giving a clear witness of the truth. They will magnify Jesus’ love, wisdom and tenderness.
G. We are called to judge people to win them to righteousness so they may be saved. If one confesses to being a follower of Jesus, then one is accountable to the standards of God’s Word.
1 It is reported that there is sexual immorality among you…3 I have already judged him who has so done this deed…5 Deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus…11 I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner--not even to eat with such a person. (1 Cor. 5:1-11)
H. We are to only to judge in the way we want to be judged (accurately, patiently, tenderly).
1 Judge not (with false measures), that you be not judged. 2 For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. (Mt. 7:1-2)
B. Allegiance to Jesus is our main issue along with being lovers of His truth (2 Thes. 2:10). Tolerance is the main issue in the counterfeit forerunner movements to the Harlot Babylon. We greatly value the people in different religions. They possess great dignity before God. We are not willing to let them perish in hell by refusing to tell them the truth about Jesus and His salvation.
C. Three truths about Jesus that offend humanists include; first, His deity and thus His right to establish absolute standards for which the nations are accountable to Him. Jesus does NOT accept humanistic views of righteousness and love. Second, the only way of salvation is through Jesus. Third, He possesses the wisdom and love to judge sin for all time and eternity.
D. Anyone who confesses the name of Jesus must stand for His deity and for His way of salvation. If they do not, then they are operating under the spirit of a false prophet. This is true of famous people who work in the White House, host talk shows, fill stadiums with concerts for the poor or lead mega-churches. We must apologize to Jesus for so much man-pleasing preaching with lies.
E. There are counterfeit forerunners who are preparing the nations to embrace the Harlot Babylon. These false forerunners tell lies about Jesus. Some are not yet false prophets but they operate in the same spirit as one. Some of them are still in the balance. The issue is not about being positive or negative but it is about being faithful witnesses to the truth. We are not running for office; however we are His messengers who will give an account at the Judgment Seat of Christ.
F. The End-Time Praying Church is to steward the greatest hope and justice movement in history. We have a far superior hope than any humanistic movements. Forerunners are the greatest hopebringers in history. They will be filled with love (purity and humility), do deeds of compassion while giving a clear witness of the truth. They will magnify Jesus’ love, wisdom and tenderness.
G. We are called to judge people to win them to righteousness so they may be saved. If one confesses to being a follower of Jesus, then one is accountable to the standards of God’s Word.
1 It is reported that there is sexual immorality among you…3 I have already judged him who has so done this deed…5 Deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus…11 I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner--not even to eat with such a person. (1 Cor. 5:1-11)
H. We are to only to judge in the way we want to be judged (accurately, patiently, tenderly).
1 Judge not (with false measures), that you be not judged. 2 For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. (Mt. 7:1-2)
Monday, March 29, 2010
The Great Harlot
Come, I will show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on many waters, 2 with whom the kings of the earth committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication"…3 I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet Beast (Antichrist)… 4 The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. 5 On her forehead a name was written: MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, the mother of Harlots and of the abominations of the earth. 6 I saw the woman, drunk with the blood of the saints…15 He said to me, "The waters…where the harlot sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues. (Rev. 17:1-6, 15)
A. Before the angel shows John the wealth and counterfeit beauty of the Harlot religion, he shows him her inevitable judgment and sure defeat (v. 1). This system will fail and be utterly destroyed.
B. The Harlot will sit on many nations (v. 1) or will have authority over the nations by seducing and controlling the world’s most powerful leaders (kings and merchants) through global networks. It is a religious network (Rev. 17) and an economic network based in Babylon (Rev. 18).
C. The Harlot’s system will cause the nations to be drunk with her seductions that offer great benefits, including humanitarian aid, a unified religion (that minimizes wars) and a prosperous world economy. The nations will rejoice and get drunk or intoxicated with her promises of goodness, prosperity and compassion and theology of tolerance based in deception.
2 The inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication. (Rev. 17:2)
D. The Harlot religion will have great prominence. It will be arrayed in purple (royal status) and will be respected by the elite financial leaders of the earth who will give their allegiance to her.
4 The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet (royalty), and adorned with gold…having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. (Rev. 17:4)
E. The Harlot will be adorned with gold. It will be the wealthiest religious network in all history. The Harlot will have a golden cup in which she “serves” the nations. It will appear golden (valuable and good). She will offer the nations unprecedented humanitarian service in helping the poor. As the Harlot emerges with religious unity, war will disappear and for first time in modern history there will be world peace (1 Thes. 5:3).
F. She will have an evil cup of abomination and filth. Abomination refers to being filled with demonic activity. In the OT, abominations refer to idolatrous (demonic) activity. Filthiness points to being filled with moral perversions.
G. The Harlot will deceive the nations by sorcery which is a combination of drugs and demonic power (witchcraft). Her dark supernatural power will fascinate people and appear to be good. Her worship music will be powerful in that it will have a supernatural demonic element to it.
23 For by your sorcery all the nations were deceived. (Rev. 18:23)
H. Sin will be allowed to reach its fullness in the End-Times. The Harlot Babylon is the context in which the nations will reach the heights of sin and their experience of the demonic realm.
23 In the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors have reached their fullness, a king (Antichrist) shall arise…who understands sinister schemes. (Dan. 8:23)
I. We evaluate a ministry by the lifestyle it produces in others and not by how fast it grows or how much money it has. Because serving the poor and walking in unity is foundational to preaching the gospel, many will think that all who proclaim this represent the truth. This statement by Jesus will reach its greatest fulfillment in the End-Times.
15 For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God. (Lk. 16:15)
J. The influence of the Harlot will cause multitudes to be drunk or intoxicated with the blood of the saints who expose her (v. 6). The more she kills, the bolder she will become in killing the saints. The one great enemy of the Harlot religion will be the saints of Jesus in the prophetic Church.
6 I saw the woman (Harlot Babylon), drunk with the blood of the saints… (Rev. 17:6)
K. The Praying Church must expose the Harlot for who she really is. The Church will be hated by all nations for this. We declare the seductive nature of her perversion and her judgment.
9 They will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake. 10 Then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. (Mt. 24:9-11)
L. The kings (political leaders) will understand some of the lies that empower the Harlot system. However, they will support her agenda to gain her wealth. In this way, they will knowingly prostitute themselves or commit fornication with her in knowingly supporting her lies for money.
2 The kings of the earth committed fornication…the inhabitants were made drunk… (Rev. 17:2)
M. The Harlot will depend on the Antichrist who will carry her (provide resource and protection).
3 I saw a woman sitting on a Beast (Antichrist) which was full of names of blasphemy…7 I will tell you the mystery of the woman and of the Beast that carries her… (Rev. 17:3, 7)
N. Surprisingly, the Harlot worldwide religion will be hated and destroyed by the jealousy of the ten primary kings who serve the Antichrist (Dan. 7:7, 20, 24). They will burn the Harlot at the beginning of the Great Tribulation. Satan’s kingdom is filled with hatred, not unity. We prophesy that after a short season of prominence, she will be burned by leaders of the Antichrist’s empire.
12 The ten horns which you saw are ten kings… 16 The ten horns…on the Beast will hate the harlot, make her desolate and naked, eat her flesh and burn her with fire. (Rev. 17:12, 16)
O. In the middle of the final 7 years of this age, the Antichrist’s plan is to replace the Harlot religion of tolerance with Antichrist worship. This new worldwide religion will be strict and without any toleration. All who refuse to worship the Antichrist will be killed (Rev. 13:4-18). Satan’s purpose for the Harlot religion is as a “forerunner” to prepare the nations for Antichrist worship.
A. Before the angel shows John the wealth and counterfeit beauty of the Harlot religion, he shows him her inevitable judgment and sure defeat (v. 1). This system will fail and be utterly destroyed.
B. The Harlot will sit on many nations (v. 1) or will have authority over the nations by seducing and controlling the world’s most powerful leaders (kings and merchants) through global networks. It is a religious network (Rev. 17) and an economic network based in Babylon (Rev. 18).
C. The Harlot’s system will cause the nations to be drunk with her seductions that offer great benefits, including humanitarian aid, a unified religion (that minimizes wars) and a prosperous world economy. The nations will rejoice and get drunk or intoxicated with her promises of goodness, prosperity and compassion and theology of tolerance based in deception.
2 The inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication. (Rev. 17:2)
D. The Harlot religion will have great prominence. It will be arrayed in purple (royal status) and will be respected by the elite financial leaders of the earth who will give their allegiance to her.
4 The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet (royalty), and adorned with gold…having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. (Rev. 17:4)
E. The Harlot will be adorned with gold. It will be the wealthiest religious network in all history. The Harlot will have a golden cup in which she “serves” the nations. It will appear golden (valuable and good). She will offer the nations unprecedented humanitarian service in helping the poor. As the Harlot emerges with religious unity, war will disappear and for first time in modern history there will be world peace (1 Thes. 5:3).
F. She will have an evil cup of abomination and filth. Abomination refers to being filled with demonic activity. In the OT, abominations refer to idolatrous (demonic) activity. Filthiness points to being filled with moral perversions.
G. The Harlot will deceive the nations by sorcery which is a combination of drugs and demonic power (witchcraft). Her dark supernatural power will fascinate people and appear to be good. Her worship music will be powerful in that it will have a supernatural demonic element to it.
23 For by your sorcery all the nations were deceived. (Rev. 18:23)
H. Sin will be allowed to reach its fullness in the End-Times. The Harlot Babylon is the context in which the nations will reach the heights of sin and their experience of the demonic realm.
23 In the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors have reached their fullness, a king (Antichrist) shall arise…who understands sinister schemes. (Dan. 8:23)
I. We evaluate a ministry by the lifestyle it produces in others and not by how fast it grows or how much money it has. Because serving the poor and walking in unity is foundational to preaching the gospel, many will think that all who proclaim this represent the truth. This statement by Jesus will reach its greatest fulfillment in the End-Times.
15 For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God. (Lk. 16:15)
J. The influence of the Harlot will cause multitudes to be drunk or intoxicated with the blood of the saints who expose her (v. 6). The more she kills, the bolder she will become in killing the saints. The one great enemy of the Harlot religion will be the saints of Jesus in the prophetic Church.
6 I saw the woman (Harlot Babylon), drunk with the blood of the saints… (Rev. 17:6)
K. The Praying Church must expose the Harlot for who she really is. The Church will be hated by all nations for this. We declare the seductive nature of her perversion and her judgment.
9 They will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake. 10 Then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. (Mt. 24:9-11)
L. The kings (political leaders) will understand some of the lies that empower the Harlot system. However, they will support her agenda to gain her wealth. In this way, they will knowingly prostitute themselves or commit fornication with her in knowingly supporting her lies for money.
2 The kings of the earth committed fornication…the inhabitants were made drunk… (Rev. 17:2)
M. The Harlot will depend on the Antichrist who will carry her (provide resource and protection).
3 I saw a woman sitting on a Beast (Antichrist) which was full of names of blasphemy…7 I will tell you the mystery of the woman and of the Beast that carries her… (Rev. 17:3, 7)
N. Surprisingly, the Harlot worldwide religion will be hated and destroyed by the jealousy of the ten primary kings who serve the Antichrist (Dan. 7:7, 20, 24). They will burn the Harlot at the beginning of the Great Tribulation. Satan’s kingdom is filled with hatred, not unity. We prophesy that after a short season of prominence, she will be burned by leaders of the Antichrist’s empire.
12 The ten horns which you saw are ten kings… 16 The ten horns…on the Beast will hate the harlot, make her desolate and naked, eat her flesh and burn her with fire. (Rev. 17:12, 16)
O. In the middle of the final 7 years of this age, the Antichrist’s plan is to replace the Harlot religion of tolerance with Antichrist worship. This new worldwide religion will be strict and without any toleration. All who refuse to worship the Antichrist will be killed (Rev. 13:4-18). Satan’s purpose for the Harlot religion is as a “forerunner” to prepare the nations for Antichrist worship.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Two Stages of Satan's Plan
A. There are two stages in Satan’s End-Time plan to be worshipped by all nations and to rule them.
4 They worshiped the Dragon (Satan)…and the Beast, saying, "Who is like the Beast? Who is able to make war with him?"…8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him... (Rev. 13:4-8)
B. Satan knows that it is too big of a step for a compromising Christian, Muslim or Hindu, etc. to suddenly become a devoted Satan worshipper. Therefore, he will first call all to join a one-world religion of tolerance that will declare that all paths lead to God and salvation. As multitudes are seduced into joining this Harlot Babylon religion it will weaken their conscience concerning their religious heritage. Next, Satan will demand that they all become Satan worshippers.
C. The emergence of this false worship movement will lead to a falling away in the Church. The two signs that Paul gave to indicate the time of Jesus’ Coming are a falling away from the faith combined with the revealing of the Antichrist on the world stage to establish peace (1 Thes. 5:3).
3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day (Jesus’ Second Coming) will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin (Antichrist) is revealed… (2 Thes. 2:3)
D. The nations will rejoice in the unity it brings and that it will help to establish world peace.
3 When they say, "Peace and safety!" then sudden destruction comes upon them. (1 Thes. 5:3)
E. People will defile their consciences and break relationships related to their religious heritage by renouncing their former beliefs in absolutes and the people who hold to those absolutes. Once people leave their religious ideals, whether Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, etc., there will be no absolute truth to keep them from worshipping Satan as an angel of light (2 Cor. 11:14).
F. The Harlot religion will prepare the nations to receive the Antichrist. It will be a religion of affirmation and toleration without absolutes. It will be a counterfeit justice movement that will feed the poor and be deeply involved in humanitarian projects. He will inspire acts of compassion but for all the wrong reasons. The goal will be the dignity and happiness of man. Humanism is man seeking to make God in man’s image.
G. The voluntary Harlot Babylon religion will be replaced by a mandatory Antichrist religion.
First, people will voluntarily join the Harlot Babylon one-world religion of tolerance (Rev. 17).
Second, all will be forced to be Satan worshippers in the Antichrist religion (Rev. 13:4, 8, 15).
H. Many believers will fall away in the seductions and deceptions of the Harlot’s religion. There will be a falling away from the faith at the end of the age (Mt. 24:9-13; 2 Thes. 2:3; 1 Tim. 4:1-2; 2 Tim. 3:1-7; 4:3-5; 2 Pet. 2:1-3). A doctrine of a demon is a teaching inspired by demons.
1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, 2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, 3 forbidding to marry… (1 Tim. 4:1-3)
I. Sound doctrine teaches obedience to Jesus and His plans. It requires endurance. To turn the ear away means that the people will no longer hear what God intended in various Bible passages. They will heap up teachers or zealously follow many teachers who support their desires.
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables… (2 Tim. 4:3-4)
J. Love of the truth is more than adherence to it. This love takes a firm stand for truth regardless of the cost. Loving truth requires that we commit to accept any new ideas as long as they are substantiated in the Scripture regardless of how different they are from our religious background.
9 The coming of the lawless one (Antichrist) is…with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and unrighteous deception…because they did not receive the love of the truth (2 Thes. 2:9-10)
4 They worshiped the Dragon (Satan)…and the Beast, saying, "Who is like the Beast? Who is able to make war with him?"…8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him... (Rev. 13:4-8)
B. Satan knows that it is too big of a step for a compromising Christian, Muslim or Hindu, etc. to suddenly become a devoted Satan worshipper. Therefore, he will first call all to join a one-world religion of tolerance that will declare that all paths lead to God and salvation. As multitudes are seduced into joining this Harlot Babylon religion it will weaken their conscience concerning their religious heritage. Next, Satan will demand that they all become Satan worshippers.
C. The emergence of this false worship movement will lead to a falling away in the Church. The two signs that Paul gave to indicate the time of Jesus’ Coming are a falling away from the faith combined with the revealing of the Antichrist on the world stage to establish peace (1 Thes. 5:3).
3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day (Jesus’ Second Coming) will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin (Antichrist) is revealed… (2 Thes. 2:3)
D. The nations will rejoice in the unity it brings and that it will help to establish world peace.
3 When they say, "Peace and safety!" then sudden destruction comes upon them. (1 Thes. 5:3)
E. People will defile their consciences and break relationships related to their religious heritage by renouncing their former beliefs in absolutes and the people who hold to those absolutes. Once people leave their religious ideals, whether Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, etc., there will be no absolute truth to keep them from worshipping Satan as an angel of light (2 Cor. 11:14).
F. The Harlot religion will prepare the nations to receive the Antichrist. It will be a religion of affirmation and toleration without absolutes. It will be a counterfeit justice movement that will feed the poor and be deeply involved in humanitarian projects. He will inspire acts of compassion but for all the wrong reasons. The goal will be the dignity and happiness of man. Humanism is man seeking to make God in man’s image.
G. The voluntary Harlot Babylon religion will be replaced by a mandatory Antichrist religion.
First, people will voluntarily join the Harlot Babylon one-world religion of tolerance (Rev. 17).
Second, all will be forced to be Satan worshippers in the Antichrist religion (Rev. 13:4, 8, 15).
H. Many believers will fall away in the seductions and deceptions of the Harlot’s religion. There will be a falling away from the faith at the end of the age (Mt. 24:9-13; 2 Thes. 2:3; 1 Tim. 4:1-2; 2 Tim. 3:1-7; 4:3-5; 2 Pet. 2:1-3). A doctrine of a demon is a teaching inspired by demons.
1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, 2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, 3 forbidding to marry… (1 Tim. 4:1-3)
I. Sound doctrine teaches obedience to Jesus and His plans. It requires endurance. To turn the ear away means that the people will no longer hear what God intended in various Bible passages. They will heap up teachers or zealously follow many teachers who support their desires.
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables… (2 Tim. 4:3-4)
J. Love of the truth is more than adherence to it. This love takes a firm stand for truth regardless of the cost. Loving truth requires that we commit to accept any new ideas as long as they are substantiated in the Scripture regardless of how different they are from our religious background.
9 The coming of the lawless one (Antichrist) is…with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and unrighteous deception…because they did not receive the love of the truth (2 Thes. 2:9-10)
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Coming One World Religion
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THIS PROPHECY
A. Rev. 17-18 is one of the most significant End-Time prophecies because it gives us insight into Satan’s strategy to deceive the nations while causing many Christians to fall away from the faith. Those who are deceived by the Harlot will end up in the Lake of Fire and some saints who resist the Harlot will be killed (Rev. 17:6). This prophecy deserves much careful study and dialogue.
B. The main message of Rev. 17 is easy to understand. The main themes are the seductive power, and cruel persecution along with the inevitable destruction of this Harlot system. The Harlot is the counterfeit of the Bride that the Holy Spirit is raising up.
C. Rev. 17 is the most symbolic passage in Revelation with many intricate details. These intricacies make it the most difficult chapter in Revelation to understand. Since the angel gave John the meaning of the symbols, we have a solid foundation for understanding this passage. Why is this most important prophecy veiled in such cryptic language? One reason I think it is veiled is because it causes us to pour over every line and discuss it often to understand its every nuance.
D. Rev. 17:1-6, gives us details about the emergence of the Harlot Babylon as a one-world religion, describing her evil seductions and cruel persecutions. She will be a counterfeit justice movement that unifies multitudes from the largest religions on earth. The rest of Rev. 17-18 describes her relationship with the Antichrist and how she is finally destroyed.
E. The five chronological sections in the Book of Revelation tell us the main storyline of judgment events that are released on the earth by the Praying Church in the order they occur. After each of the chronological sections, an angel explains to John why the events just described are necessary. These explanations function as a parenthesis that puts the story line on “pause” as they answer questions such as Why is God’s wrath is so severe? and What will happen to the saints?
F. In the angelic explanation in Rev. 17-18, we are told why the bowls of wrath are necessary and we are assured of the defeat of Babylon. The angel explains why billions of people will be killed in the bowl judgments and why the infrastructure of the nations will be dashed into pieces by Jesus. It is because the seduction of Babylon’s religion of evil will permeate so many of these structures.
8 I will give You (Jesus) the nations for Your inheritance…9 You shall break them with a rod of iron; You shall dash them to pieces like a potter's vessel. (Ps. 2:8-9)
26 The nations…27 shall be dashed to pieces like the potter's vessels (Rev. 2:26-27)
G. The 7th Trumpet focus is on replacing evil leaders and the bowls focus on replacing the social infrastructures (tax codes, education or business policies, etc.).
A. Rev. 17-18 is one of the most significant End-Time prophecies because it gives us insight into Satan’s strategy to deceive the nations while causing many Christians to fall away from the faith. Those who are deceived by the Harlot will end up in the Lake of Fire and some saints who resist the Harlot will be killed (Rev. 17:6). This prophecy deserves much careful study and dialogue.
B. The main message of Rev. 17 is easy to understand. The main themes are the seductive power, and cruel persecution along with the inevitable destruction of this Harlot system. The Harlot is the counterfeit of the Bride that the Holy Spirit is raising up.
C. Rev. 17 is the most symbolic passage in Revelation with many intricate details. These intricacies make it the most difficult chapter in Revelation to understand. Since the angel gave John the meaning of the symbols, we have a solid foundation for understanding this passage. Why is this most important prophecy veiled in such cryptic language? One reason I think it is veiled is because it causes us to pour over every line and discuss it often to understand its every nuance.
D. Rev. 17:1-6, gives us details about the emergence of the Harlot Babylon as a one-world religion, describing her evil seductions and cruel persecutions. She will be a counterfeit justice movement that unifies multitudes from the largest religions on earth. The rest of Rev. 17-18 describes her relationship with the Antichrist and how she is finally destroyed.
E. The five chronological sections in the Book of Revelation tell us the main storyline of judgment events that are released on the earth by the Praying Church in the order they occur. After each of the chronological sections, an angel explains to John why the events just described are necessary. These explanations function as a parenthesis that puts the story line on “pause” as they answer questions such as Why is God’s wrath is so severe? and What will happen to the saints?
F. In the angelic explanation in Rev. 17-18, we are told why the bowls of wrath are necessary and we are assured of the defeat of Babylon. The angel explains why billions of people will be killed in the bowl judgments and why the infrastructure of the nations will be dashed into pieces by Jesus. It is because the seduction of Babylon’s religion of evil will permeate so many of these structures.
8 I will give You (Jesus) the nations for Your inheritance…9 You shall break them with a rod of iron; You shall dash them to pieces like a potter's vessel. (Ps. 2:8-9)
26 The nations…27 shall be dashed to pieces like the potter's vessels (Rev. 2:26-27)
G. The 7th Trumpet focus is on replacing evil leaders and the bowls focus on replacing the social infrastructures (tax codes, education or business policies, etc.).
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Heavenly Rewards
A. There will be many different types of heavenly rewards that believers will receive at the time of the Second Coming. These rewards are not of secondary importance but rather are an important part of our destiny. Therefore, all believers should be familiar with them. The heir of a great financial fortune or one investing in venture knows the main details of what they hope to gain.
B. In Rev. 2-3, Jesus gave His most in-depth teaching on rewards (mentioning 22 rewards). He knew what we would need to be properly motivated and stabilized during the release of the glory and crisis in the End-Time move of God as seen in the Book of Revelation.
C. There will be a vast difference in the measure of glory of each one’s reward. Some in the Kingdom will be called the least and some the greatest (Jer. 31:34; Heb. 8:11; Rev. 11:18; 19:5).
19 Whoever breaks (consistently) one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the Kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches (encourages)them, he shall be called great in the Kingdom of heaven. (Mt. 5:19)
D. There are various levels of fulfillment of these rewards in this age as well as in the age-to-come.
E. Rewards are not given automatically but only to those who fulfill specific conditions. This is the time in our life when the “exchange rate” for obedience is the highest. To believe means to “respond to Jesus in confidence and consistency”. One aspect of being blessed is in receiving eternal rewards that are far beyond a “100-fold return” for all that we offer Jesus in love and obedience (Mt. 19:29; Mk. 10:30; Lk 8:8; Mt. 13:8; 23).
29 Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. (Jn. 20:29)
F. God pays so well in our few things. To have confidence in this is to greatly impact our heart.
29 Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life. (Mt. 19:29)
G. There will be varying degrees of fruitfulness and reward: 100-fold, 60-fold and 30-fold.
23 He who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. (Mt. 13:23)
H. Jesus reveals the great exchange of “few things” to “many things”. God esteems, remembers and rewards our small expressions of obedience in our mind, emotions, and will. Those who were faithful in “very little” will have “government over ten cities” in the Millennial Kingdom.
21 You were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. (Mt. 25:21)
17 Well done…you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities. (Lk. 19:17)
B. In Rev. 2-3, Jesus gave His most in-depth teaching on rewards (mentioning 22 rewards). He knew what we would need to be properly motivated and stabilized during the release of the glory and crisis in the End-Time move of God as seen in the Book of Revelation.
C. There will be a vast difference in the measure of glory of each one’s reward. Some in the Kingdom will be called the least and some the greatest (Jer. 31:34; Heb. 8:11; Rev. 11:18; 19:5).
19 Whoever breaks (consistently) one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the Kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches (encourages)them, he shall be called great in the Kingdom of heaven. (Mt. 5:19)
D. There are various levels of fulfillment of these rewards in this age as well as in the age-to-come.
E. Rewards are not given automatically but only to those who fulfill specific conditions. This is the time in our life when the “exchange rate” for obedience is the highest. To believe means to “respond to Jesus in confidence and consistency”. One aspect of being blessed is in receiving eternal rewards that are far beyond a “100-fold return” for all that we offer Jesus in love and obedience (Mt. 19:29; Mk. 10:30; Lk 8:8; Mt. 13:8; 23).
29 Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. (Jn. 20:29)
F. God pays so well in our few things. To have confidence in this is to greatly impact our heart.
29 Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life. (Mt. 19:29)
G. There will be varying degrees of fruitfulness and reward: 100-fold, 60-fold and 30-fold.
23 He who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. (Mt. 13:23)
H. Jesus reveals the great exchange of “few things” to “many things”. God esteems, remembers and rewards our small expressions of obedience in our mind, emotions, and will. Those who were faithful in “very little” will have “government over ten cities” in the Millennial Kingdom.
21 You were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. (Mt. 25:21)
17 Well done…you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities. (Lk. 19:17)
Monday, March 1, 2010
Understanding More of Abomination of Desolation
A. Scripture exhorts us to understand the vision (which included the Abomination of Desolation).
23 Therefore consider the matter, and understand the vision… (Dan. 9:23)
B. We are exhorted “read and understand” or to take the necessary efforts to understand.
15 The abomination of desolation…whoever reads, let him understand… (Mt. 24:15)
C. The Abomination of Desolation is directly referred to by name 6 times in Scripture, 4 times by Daniel (Dan. 8:13; 9:27; 11:31; 12:11) and twice by Jesus (Matt. 24:15; Mk. 13:14). The Abomination of Desolation is the scriptural name for the Antichrist’s image that is placed in the Temple. The Abomination of Desolation is described without using the name 4 more times in Scripture (Rev. 13:11-18; 14:9-11; 2 Thes. 2:3-4; Dan. 3:1-30)
D. The Abomination of Desolation cannot occur unless Israel rebuilds the Temple on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. For the Antichrist to stop the daily sacrifices in the Temple, the Tribulation Temple must exist. The Temple does not currently exist, but we know that it must be rebuilt (Mt. 24:15; Mk. 13:14; 2 Thes. 2:4; Rev. 11:1-2; 13:12-18; Dan. 9:26, 27; 11:31; 12:11). Even now plans to rebuild the Third Temple are being pursued aggressively in Israel. This may occur just before the beginning of the final 7-year period.
E. The Abomination of Desolation will need to be “set up”. In other words, the whole system needs to be “set up”. This will involve setting up the statue of the Antichrist in the Jerusalem Temple and setting up a worldwide infrastructure so that all can worship the image (Rev. 14:9-11). The Abomination involves stopping the animal sacrifices to replace them with the image of the Beast. It is referred to in the singular as “the” Abomination of Desolation.
11 And from the time that the daily sacrifice is taken away, and the Abomination of Desolation is set up, there shall be 1,290 days. (Dan 12:11)
1. Jesus spoke of the statue of the Antichrist ‘standing in’ in the Temple.
2. The Antichrist’s armies will take the statue and ‘place it there’ in the Temple.
F. Daniel 8:13 gives us details to give us insight into what the Antichrist will do.
13 I heard a holy one (angel) speaking…"How long will the vision be, concerning the daily sacrifices and the transgression of desolation, the giving of both the sanctuary and the host (army of Israel) to be trampled under foot?" (Dan 8:13)
1. The Antichrist will act in a way that concerns the daily sacrifices.
2. He will lead the nations into “the transgression” that leads to the desolation of nations.
3. Someone or a group of people will “give” the sanctuary and the host to be trampled. Does this refer to God, the Antichrist, the False Prophet, or another person or group?
4. The transgression will involve giving the sanctuary to be trampled under foot or to be degraded or defiled. The sanctuary or Temple will not be torn down, but the furniture and activities will be defiled and degraded. The Abomination involves desolating the Temple with the image of the Beast and stopping the animal sacrifices offered there.
5. The transgression will involve giving the host (army of Israel or army of the Lord) to be trampled under foot. This speaks of persecuting the host. The army of Israel will be small yet it will be anointed of the Lord at the end of the conflict (Zech. 12:5-8).
G. Antiochus Epiphanes (Antiochus IV; 175-163 BC) defiled the Temple in a way that would prophetically foretell how the Antichrist will defile it in the End-Times. Daniel 11:31 gives us details from Antiochus’ example to give us insight into what the Antichrist will do. Antiochus’ forces defiled the sanctuary fortress or the Temple complex. Antiochus’ forces took away the daily sacrifices. Antiochus’ forces placed the Abomination of Desolation in the Temple.
H. The sacrifices will be taken away. This was emphasized three out of the four times that Daniel referred to the Abomination of Desolation (Dan 8:13; 11:31; 12:11). The sacrifices are “daily” showing us Israel’s commitment to host “daily” sacrifices.
I. The Antichrist will operate on the wing (pinnacle or extreme expression) of abominations.
J. Daniel 11 provides us a picture from history of the abomination of desolation which is such a significant End-Times event that an entire chapter was needed to give us an adequate historical context to make the picture clear. Antiochus Epiphanes slaughtered thousands of Jews and desecrated Israel’s temple by sacrificing a pig on the altar and setting up a statue of a Greek god in it, then he stopped the daily temple sacrifices (Dan. 11:31).
K. The Third Temple is NOT the same as the Millennial Temple. There are two distinct Jerusalem Temples prophesied in Scriptures i.e. the Tribulation Temple (Third Temple) which will be built by unbelieving Jews and then desecrated by the Antichrist. The Millennial Temple will be built by Jesus (Isa. 2:3; 60:6, 10, 13; Ezek. 37:26-28; 40-48; Zech. 2:11; 6:12-15; 14:16-21).
23 Therefore consider the matter, and understand the vision… (Dan. 9:23)
B. We are exhorted “read and understand” or to take the necessary efforts to understand.
15 The abomination of desolation…whoever reads, let him understand… (Mt. 24:15)
C. The Abomination of Desolation is directly referred to by name 6 times in Scripture, 4 times by Daniel (Dan. 8:13; 9:27; 11:31; 12:11) and twice by Jesus (Matt. 24:15; Mk. 13:14). The Abomination of Desolation is the scriptural name for the Antichrist’s image that is placed in the Temple. The Abomination of Desolation is described without using the name 4 more times in Scripture (Rev. 13:11-18; 14:9-11; 2 Thes. 2:3-4; Dan. 3:1-30)
D. The Abomination of Desolation cannot occur unless Israel rebuilds the Temple on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. For the Antichrist to stop the daily sacrifices in the Temple, the Tribulation Temple must exist. The Temple does not currently exist, but we know that it must be rebuilt (Mt. 24:15; Mk. 13:14; 2 Thes. 2:4; Rev. 11:1-2; 13:12-18; Dan. 9:26, 27; 11:31; 12:11). Even now plans to rebuild the Third Temple are being pursued aggressively in Israel. This may occur just before the beginning of the final 7-year period.
E. The Abomination of Desolation will need to be “set up”. In other words, the whole system needs to be “set up”. This will involve setting up the statue of the Antichrist in the Jerusalem Temple and setting up a worldwide infrastructure so that all can worship the image (Rev. 14:9-11). The Abomination involves stopping the animal sacrifices to replace them with the image of the Beast. It is referred to in the singular as “the” Abomination of Desolation.
11 And from the time that the daily sacrifice is taken away, and the Abomination of Desolation is set up, there shall be 1,290 days. (Dan 12:11)
1. Jesus spoke of the statue of the Antichrist ‘standing in’ in the Temple.
2. The Antichrist’s armies will take the statue and ‘place it there’ in the Temple.
F. Daniel 8:13 gives us details to give us insight into what the Antichrist will do.
13 I heard a holy one (angel) speaking…"How long will the vision be, concerning the daily sacrifices and the transgression of desolation, the giving of both the sanctuary and the host (army of Israel) to be trampled under foot?" (Dan 8:13)
1. The Antichrist will act in a way that concerns the daily sacrifices.
2. He will lead the nations into “the transgression” that leads to the desolation of nations.
3. Someone or a group of people will “give” the sanctuary and the host to be trampled. Does this refer to God, the Antichrist, the False Prophet, or another person or group?
4. The transgression will involve giving the sanctuary to be trampled under foot or to be degraded or defiled. The sanctuary or Temple will not be torn down, but the furniture and activities will be defiled and degraded. The Abomination involves desolating the Temple with the image of the Beast and stopping the animal sacrifices offered there.
5. The transgression will involve giving the host (army of Israel or army of the Lord) to be trampled under foot. This speaks of persecuting the host. The army of Israel will be small yet it will be anointed of the Lord at the end of the conflict (Zech. 12:5-8).
G. Antiochus Epiphanes (Antiochus IV; 175-163 BC) defiled the Temple in a way that would prophetically foretell how the Antichrist will defile it in the End-Times. Daniel 11:31 gives us details from Antiochus’ example to give us insight into what the Antichrist will do. Antiochus’ forces defiled the sanctuary fortress or the Temple complex. Antiochus’ forces took away the daily sacrifices. Antiochus’ forces placed the Abomination of Desolation in the Temple.
H. The sacrifices will be taken away. This was emphasized three out of the four times that Daniel referred to the Abomination of Desolation (Dan 8:13; 11:31; 12:11). The sacrifices are “daily” showing us Israel’s commitment to host “daily” sacrifices.
I. The Antichrist will operate on the wing (pinnacle or extreme expression) of abominations.
J. Daniel 11 provides us a picture from history of the abomination of desolation which is such a significant End-Times event that an entire chapter was needed to give us an adequate historical context to make the picture clear. Antiochus Epiphanes slaughtered thousands of Jews and desecrated Israel’s temple by sacrificing a pig on the altar and setting up a statue of a Greek god in it, then he stopped the daily temple sacrifices (Dan. 11:31).
K. The Third Temple is NOT the same as the Millennial Temple. There are two distinct Jerusalem Temples prophesied in Scriptures i.e. the Tribulation Temple (Third Temple) which will be built by unbelieving Jews and then desecrated by the Antichrist. The Millennial Temple will be built by Jesus (Isa. 2:3; 60:6, 10, 13; Ezek. 37:26-28; 40-48; Zech. 2:11; 6:12-15; 14:16-21).
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Counterfeit Worship Movement
A. The Holy Spirit is raising up a End-Time prophetic worship movement (Rev. 22:17; 5:8; 8:4; Lk.18:7-8; Mt. 25:1-13; Isa. 62:6-7; 24:14-16; 25:9; 26:8-9; 27:2-5, 13; 30:18-19; 42:10-13; 43:26;51:11; 52:8; Joel 2:12-17, 32; Jer. 31:7; Mic. 5:3-4; Zeph. 2:1-3; Ps. 102:17-20; Zech. 12:10).
B. Hundreds of millions will accept the Antichrist’s claims and thus, participate in Satan worship.
4 They worshiped the dragon (Satan) who gave authority to the Beast (Antichrist); and they worshiped the Beast saying, "Who is like the Beast?...” (Rev. 13:4)
8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him (Antichrist), whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. (Rev. 13:8)
C. The very thing that Satan wanted from Jesus in Matt. 4 is what he demands from the whole earth.
8 The devil…showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him,"All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me." (Matt. 4:8-9)
D. The Antichrist will demand to be worshipped before an idol as Nebuchadnezzar did (Dan. 3:1-6).
1 Nebuchadnezzar…made an image of gold, whose height was sixty cubits (90 feet) and its width six cubits (9 feet)…4 Then a herald cried aloud, "…You shall… worship the gold image …6 whoever does not fall down and worship shall be cast into…fiery furnace." (Dan. 3:1-6)
B. Hundreds of millions will accept the Antichrist’s claims and thus, participate in Satan worship.
4 They worshiped the dragon (Satan) who gave authority to the Beast (Antichrist); and they worshiped the Beast saying, "Who is like the Beast?...” (Rev. 13:4)
8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him (Antichrist), whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. (Rev. 13:8)
C. The very thing that Satan wanted from Jesus in Matt. 4 is what he demands from the whole earth.
8 The devil…showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him,"All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me." (Matt. 4:8-9)
D. The Antichrist will demand to be worshipped before an idol as Nebuchadnezzar did (Dan. 3:1-6).
1 Nebuchadnezzar…made an image of gold, whose height was sixty cubits (90 feet) and its width six cubits (9 feet)…4 Then a herald cried aloud, "…You shall… worship the gold image …6 whoever does not fall down and worship shall be cast into…fiery furnace." (Dan. 3:1-6)
Monday, February 15, 2010
Abomination of Desolation: The Image and Mark of the Beast
The image of the Beast is one of the most significant prophetic signs in the End-Times. John emphasized this statue ten times (Rev. 13:14, 15 [three times]; 14:9, 11; 15:2; 16:2; 19:20; 20:4). This will occur in the middle of the last 7-year period.
B. The Abomination of Desolation will be convincing to many because of demonic miracles.
9 The coming of the lawless one (Antichrist) is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception... (2 Thes. 2:9-10)
24 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. (Mt. 24:24)
C. The image of the Beast that breathes and talks and the mark of the Beast will be two components of the Abomination of Desolation that deceives the world into worshipping the Antichrist.
13 He (False Prophet) performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from
heaven…14 And he deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs…15 He was granted power to give breath to the image of the Beast, that the image of the Beast should speak… 16 He causes all…to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, 17 and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark… 18 His number is 666. (Rev. 13:13-18)
D. The mark of the Beast (Antichrist) is a key component of the Abomination of Desolation system. It will be a public mark on people’s right hand or forehead (Rev. 13:16-17).
E. The Antichrist’s image will combine cutting edge technology (or holograms?) and supernatural demonic elements causing this image to breathe and speak. The image will probably resemble the Antichrist. It may even speak like him so that it represents him in a personal way.
F. What will the Antichrist’s image say? It was granted power to give breath to the image or to give a false “appearance” of life. By speaking, it will appear to think freely as it makes laws that cause people to be killed who refuse to worship the Antichrist. It may speak on others issues.
G. I believe the image will speak to the people in personal ways by prophesying by demonic power about private matters. It may relate the dreams or private conversations with a deceased person (séance) as a counterfeit to the End-Time worship and prophetic movement.
17 It shall come to pass in the last days, says God, that I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy… (Acts 2:17)
H. A global network of local “Antichrist worship sanctuaries” that prophesy would be
a counterfeit claim to the Antichrist’s omnipresence. These demonic local outposts will be the focal points of spiritual warfare as the true houses of prayer fill the earth at that time. Daniel revealed Nebuchadnezzar’s dream (Dan. 2:19, 26-28). This caused Nebuchadnezzar to worship Daniel’s God.
B. The Abomination of Desolation will be convincing to many because of demonic miracles.
9 The coming of the lawless one (Antichrist) is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception... (2 Thes. 2:9-10)
24 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. (Mt. 24:24)
C. The image of the Beast that breathes and talks and the mark of the Beast will be two components of the Abomination of Desolation that deceives the world into worshipping the Antichrist.
13 He (False Prophet) performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from
heaven…14 And he deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs…15 He was granted power to give breath to the image of the Beast, that the image of the Beast should speak… 16 He causes all…to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, 17 and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark… 18 His number is 666. (Rev. 13:13-18)
D. The mark of the Beast (Antichrist) is a key component of the Abomination of Desolation system. It will be a public mark on people’s right hand or forehead (Rev. 13:16-17).
E. The Antichrist’s image will combine cutting edge technology (or holograms?) and supernatural demonic elements causing this image to breathe and speak. The image will probably resemble the Antichrist. It may even speak like him so that it represents him in a personal way.
F. What will the Antichrist’s image say? It was granted power to give breath to the image or to give a false “appearance” of life. By speaking, it will appear to think freely as it makes laws that cause people to be killed who refuse to worship the Antichrist. It may speak on others issues.
G. I believe the image will speak to the people in personal ways by prophesying by demonic power about private matters. It may relate the dreams or private conversations with a deceased person (séance) as a counterfeit to the End-Time worship and prophetic movement.
17 It shall come to pass in the last days, says God, that I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy… (Acts 2:17)
H. A global network of local “Antichrist worship sanctuaries” that prophesy would be
a counterfeit claim to the Antichrist’s omnipresence. These demonic local outposts will be the focal points of spiritual warfare as the true houses of prayer fill the earth at that time. Daniel revealed Nebuchadnezzar’s dream (Dan. 2:19, 26-28). This caused Nebuchadnezzar to worship Daniel’s God.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Desolation of The Nations - Two Sources of Destruction
A. The consequences of the coming abominations will result in great desolation (destruction)coming to many nations from two totally different sources, from Jesus and the Antichrist. There will be 3½ years of global desolation that will threaten the life of the majority of the earth.
22 And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved (physically saved from death)but for the elect's sake those days will be shortened. (Mt. 24:22)
B. First, Jesus will destroy the people and places who worship the Antichrist and/or his image. Jesus will open the scroll to release the plagues in book of Revelation (7 seals, 7 trumpets, 7 bowls).
8 Power was given to them over a fourth of the earth…. (Rev. 6:8)
15 The four angels…were released to kill a third of mankind. (Rev. 9:15)
16 The LORD will judge all flesh; and the slain of the LORD shall be many. (Isa 66:16)
33 The slain of the LORD shall be from one end of the earth even to the other... (Jer 25:33)
C. Second, the Antichrist will use his unprecedented political, military and economic power to seek to destroy those refuse to worship him.
15 To cause as many as would not worship…the Beast to be killed. (Rev. 13:12, 15)
3 The man of sin (Antichrist) is revealed, the son of perdition (destruction) (2 Thes. 2:3)
27 On the wing of abominations shall be one (Antichrist) who makes desolate… (Dan. 9:27)
22 And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved (physically saved from death)but for the elect's sake those days will be shortened. (Mt. 24:22)
B. First, Jesus will destroy the people and places who worship the Antichrist and/or his image. Jesus will open the scroll to release the plagues in book of Revelation (7 seals, 7 trumpets, 7 bowls).
8 Power was given to them over a fourth of the earth…. (Rev. 6:8)
15 The four angels…were released to kill a third of mankind. (Rev. 9:15)
16 The LORD will judge all flesh; and the slain of the LORD shall be many. (Isa 66:16)
33 The slain of the LORD shall be from one end of the earth even to the other... (Jer 25:33)
C. Second, the Antichrist will use his unprecedented political, military and economic power to seek to destroy those refuse to worship him.
15 To cause as many as would not worship…the Beast to be killed. (Rev. 13:12, 15)
3 The man of sin (Antichrist) is revealed, the son of perdition (destruction) (2 Thes. 2:3)
27 On the wing of abominations shall be one (Antichrist) who makes desolate… (Dan. 9:27)
Monday, February 1, 2010
The Coming Abomination - Four Main Evil Activities
A. First, the abomination begins when the Antichrist sits in the Temple claiming to be God (2 Thes.2:3-4). Antichrist is a counterfeit to Jesus ruling from the Temple (Ezek. 43:5-7; Zech. 6:12-13).
B. Second, the False Prophet will tell people to make an image (statue/idol) that is associated with the Antichrist. By combining Jesus’ and Paul’s information we know that the Antichrist will sit in the Temple (2 Thes. 2:4) and that an idol will stand there (Mt. 24:15). Therefore, we can safely assume that the “primary” idol related to the Antichrist will be in the Jerusalem Temple.
14 And he (False Prophet) deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs…telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the Beast (Antichrist). (Rev. 13:14)
C. Third, the False Prophet will tell the leaders in the nations to make an image to the Antichrist. I believe that many local leaders will have a duplicate image of the Antichrist that is demonically and technologically connected to the “primary” image in Jerusalem. The result will be a global network of local “Antichrist worship sanctuaries” that include high-tech images (holograms?) of the Antichrist. Men will make these idols out of materials of different economic value.
20 The rest of mankind…did not repent of the works of their hands, that they should not worship demons, and idols of gold, silver, brass, stone, and wood… (Rev. 9:20)
D. Fourth, the False Prophet will cause (command/force) all the nations to worship the Antichrist as God. All will be required by law to worship the Antichrist as God. These laws will also empower the wicked to kill the righteous. These laws and the response to them will be an abomination.
12 And he (False Prophet) exercises all the authority of the first Beast (Antichrist)…and causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first Beast…15 He was granted power to…cause as many as would not worship the image of the Beast to be killed. (Rev. 13:12, 15)
8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him (Antichrist), whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. (Rev. 13:8)
E. People will worship the Antichrist’s image itself.
9 If anyone worships the Beast (Antichrist) and his image…10 shall be tormented... (Rev. 14:9)
B. Second, the False Prophet will tell people to make an image (statue/idol) that is associated with the Antichrist. By combining Jesus’ and Paul’s information we know that the Antichrist will sit in the Temple (2 Thes. 2:4) and that an idol will stand there (Mt. 24:15). Therefore, we can safely assume that the “primary” idol related to the Antichrist will be in the Jerusalem Temple.
14 And he (False Prophet) deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs…telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the Beast (Antichrist). (Rev. 13:14)
C. Third, the False Prophet will tell the leaders in the nations to make an image to the Antichrist. I believe that many local leaders will have a duplicate image of the Antichrist that is demonically and technologically connected to the “primary” image in Jerusalem. The result will be a global network of local “Antichrist worship sanctuaries” that include high-tech images (holograms?) of the Antichrist. Men will make these idols out of materials of different economic value.
20 The rest of mankind…did not repent of the works of their hands, that they should not worship demons, and idols of gold, silver, brass, stone, and wood… (Rev. 9:20)
D. Fourth, the False Prophet will cause (command/force) all the nations to worship the Antichrist as God. All will be required by law to worship the Antichrist as God. These laws will also empower the wicked to kill the righteous. These laws and the response to them will be an abomination.
12 And he (False Prophet) exercises all the authority of the first Beast (Antichrist)…and causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first Beast…15 He was granted power to…cause as many as would not worship the image of the Beast to be killed. (Rev. 13:12, 15)
8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him (Antichrist), whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. (Rev. 13:8)
E. People will worship the Antichrist’s image itself.
9 If anyone worships the Beast (Antichrist) and his image…10 shall be tormented... (Rev. 14:9)
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
What is the Abomination of Desolation?
A. The Abomination of Desolation is a series of evil or abominable events that will occur in the final 3½ years before Jesus returns. They will be an abomination to God and will result in great worldwide desolation (destruction). Thus, it will be an abomination that leads to great desolation.
15 When you see the 'abomination of desolation,' spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place" (whoever reads, let him understand), 16 then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 17 Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. 18 Let him who is in the field not go back…21For there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time… (Mt. 24:15-21)
B. The abomination will center around an image (statue) of the Antichrist standing in the holy place in the Jerusalem Temple (to be rebuilt). It will be the primary sign that the Great Tribulation has begun. Jesus prophesied that believers would “see” it and would understand its significance. Those in Judea must flee to the mountains because the next 3½ years will be very difficult.
C. Paul described the abomination of desolation as requiring a rebuilt Temple with a sacrifice system re-established (2 Thes. 2:3-4). The Antichrist will enter the Temple to stop the sacrifices.
3 For that Day (Rapture) will not come unless…the man of sin (Antichrist) is revealed…4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called (associated with) God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the Temple of God, showing himself that he is God. (2 Thes. 2:3-4)
15 When you see the 'abomination of desolation,' spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place" (whoever reads, let him understand), 16 then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 17 Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. 18 Let him who is in the field not go back…21For there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time… (Mt. 24:15-21)
B. The abomination will center around an image (statue) of the Antichrist standing in the holy place in the Jerusalem Temple (to be rebuilt). It will be the primary sign that the Great Tribulation has begun. Jesus prophesied that believers would “see” it and would understand its significance. Those in Judea must flee to the mountains because the next 3½ years will be very difficult.
C. Paul described the abomination of desolation as requiring a rebuilt Temple with a sacrifice system re-established (2 Thes. 2:3-4). The Antichrist will enter the Temple to stop the sacrifices.
3 For that Day (Rapture) will not come unless…the man of sin (Antichrist) is revealed…4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called (associated with) God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the Temple of God, showing himself that he is God. (2 Thes. 2:3-4)
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Cosmic Disturbances Including Earthquakes
There were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake. (Rev. 8:5)
A. The seventh seal picks up where the sixth seal left off. It continues with similar cosmic disturbances, as seen in Revelation 6:12-17. The fire is followed by “noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake.” After the silence of Revelation 8:1, the next sounds heard are noises and peals of thunder. These manifestations are seen in Revelation (4:5; 8:5; 11:19; 16:18-21) along with Exodus 19:16, 18; Psalm 18:7-13; 77:18-19; and Isaiah 29:6. The earthquake sequence during the tribulation is seen in Revelation 6:12; 8:5; 11:13, 19; and 16:18,
A. The seventh seal picks up where the sixth seal left off. It continues with similar cosmic disturbances, as seen in Revelation 6:12-17. The fire is followed by “noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake.” After the silence of Revelation 8:1, the next sounds heard are noises and peals of thunder. These manifestations are seen in Revelation (4:5; 8:5; 11:19; 16:18-21) along with Exodus 19:16, 18; Psalm 18:7-13; 77:18-19; and Isaiah 29:6. The earthquake sequence during the tribulation is seen in Revelation 6:12; 8:5; 11:13, 19; and 16:18,
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
God's Judgments Released by Saints
A. God’s judgments are not released on the saints, but by the saints. The end-time prayer movement under Jesus’ leadership will release His judgments through prayer, as seen in the book of Revelation (Rev. 5:8; 6:10; 8:3-5; 9:13; 14:18; 16:7; 19:2; 22:17).
Let the high praises of God be in their mouth ... 7 To execute vengeance on the nations ... 9 To execute on them the written judgment—this honor have all His saints. (Ps. 149:6-9)
B. As Moses released the plagues on Egypt through prayer and as the apostles released God’s power through prayer in Acts, so the tribulation judgments will be released by the Praying Church. The miracles of Exodus and Acts will be combined and multiplied on a global level.
As in the days when you came out of ... Egypt, I will show them wonders. (Mic. 7:15)
Let the high praises of God be in their mouth ... 7 To execute vengeance on the nations ... 9 To execute on them the written judgment—this honor have all His saints. (Ps. 149:6-9)
B. As Moses released the plagues on Egypt through prayer and as the apostles released God’s power through prayer in Acts, so the tribulation judgments will be released by the Praying Church. The miracles of Exodus and Acts will be combined and multiplied on a global level.
As in the days when you came out of ... Egypt, I will show them wonders. (Mic. 7:15)
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Fire Released by Prayer
Fire will be called down by the prayers of the saints through a bridal paradigm, not through an angry paradigm that prays for fire in a fleshly way. Sixty years earlier, as a young man, Jesus refused John’s fleshly prayer for fire to fall on a city.
They entered a village of the Samaritans ... 53 But they did not receive Him ... 54 When His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?” 55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. (Lk. 9:52-55)
B. The answer to praying for judgment with a wrong spirit is to become lovesick in our preoccupation with Jesus (bridal paradigm). We pray for revival and judgment with a different spirit when it has nothing to do with our ministry but is for His glory and for justice.
They entered a village of the Samaritans ... 53 But they did not receive Him ... 54 When His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?” 55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. (Lk. 9:52-55)
B. The answer to praying for judgment with a wrong spirit is to become lovesick in our preoccupation with Jesus (bridal paradigm). We pray for revival and judgment with a different spirit when it has nothing to do with our ministry but is for His glory and for justice.
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