1.  Are there recognizable signs for the Rapture?...January 9, 2010

Our anticipation is that the Rapture of the Church is drawing near. We recognize that it is imminent, but are unable to discern if it is impending. The words are fairly synonymous, but there is a slight difference in connotation. We believe the Rapture can occur any moment, but cannot declare that it is actually “at hand.”

Looking for signs to indicate that the Rapture is about to happen, is legitimate. No, there are no recognizable signs for the Rapture. However, consider this: Suppose you don’t know the respective dates of Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day, but you do know that Thanksgiving Day precedes Christmas Day. One day you go into a major retail store and see Christmas decorations going up, and hear Christmas music being played. These are signs that Christmas is near, so you can conclude that Thanksgiving Day must be indeed drawing nigh.

Bible signs for the Return of Christ are being displayed all around us. Surely, the Rapture of the Church is drawing near.

Hope you are reading Isaiah, Chapter Forty. We plan to discuss it soon.

2.  Who today is the Biblical Edom?...January 12, 2010

Check out: http://www.hopeofis rael.net/messianic-prophecies/49-324-messianic-prophecies.html for a list of hundreds of prophecies concerning Messiah—some already fulfilled, and others yet future.

I plan soon to address Isaiah 40:15-17, but there is a little more ground work that is needed. If we would correctly relate Bible nations to current events, then we must know what modern nations are equivalent to the ones named in Old Testament prophecy.

Here is a chart that will help. I printed it out and taped it inside the front cover of my bible, for easy and quick reference.

Click on thumbnail for ZIP download which should print suitable for taping in flyleaf

Click here for PDF version...

3.  Does God Remember What He Said?...January 16, 2010

Our doctrine is based on our conviction that the promises God made to Israel, are: 1) Still valid and will be fulfilled; and, 2) valid to Israel--not to the Church--as many modern theologians proclaim. The Church has not replaced Israel—God has not forgotten His plans for that nation.

Moses records, in Deuteronomy 32:8: "When the most High divided to the nations their inheritance, when he separated the sons of Adam, he set the bounds of the people according to the number of the children of Israel."

As far as I can see, this action took place as recorded in Genesis 10:25, which, in its context, refers to the family of Shem, the ancestral line of Israel.

The promises were initiated in their simplicity long before the call of God to Abraham, and were only detailed and strengthened in the ensuing years. Nowhere is it recorded that God has revoked His covenant with Abraham (reference Dr. Swaim’s study, within the site, The Bible Covenants).

That His promises are still in effect is the subject of multitudinous Old and New Testament references.

This is all leading us to the consideration of: What about America in Bible Prophecy? Isaiah Chapter 40 is coming up…soon…concerning that subject.

4.  Jeremiah, did you say, “America?”...January 21, 2010

So, how does God feel about America? Is America in Bible prophecy? She is, most certainly--with some qualification.

A world-renown Bible teacher/Evangelist announced some years ago that he had found America named in bible prophecy. He had concluded that Jeremiah 50:23 was a direct reference to the U.S.A., called the “Hammer of the whole earth.”  I don’t know if he continues to espouse that erroneous position, as I no longer follow his ministry.

America is not in bible prophecy by name, so far as I can determine. However, reference is made to her in certain passages, as Jeremiah 30:11, and Isaiah 40:15 and 17. I refer to the term, “all nations.” True enough, one might contend, America was not in existence at the time of these prophetic utterances. But, those prophecies concern our present time, and America is still here. She is included in the “all nations,” of Old Testament prophecy.

How can one know that the prophecies are for this present time? The answer lies in observing Bible signs, as related to the Return of the Lord to this earth.

Ahead, we shall observe these signs and seek to demonstrate the time frame, and consider what God says concerning America. Please add Jeremiah 2:5-8 to the list of passages involved in these considerations.

5.  What If America Turns Socialist?...February 8, 2010

If I am accurate in my view concerning the establishing of America (see above), then how is God viewing our nation now?

We often hear declarations, such as, "America is the greatest nation ever founded on this earth." We patriots certainly tend to believe that. We love our nation.

But, what about Israel? Sure, she is in rebellion against her God, and in unbelief concerning her Messiah. But God has declared that, in His time, He will forgive her, convert her, and make her the Head of the nations of earth. In support, I offer you Deuteronomy, Chapters 28-30. Specifically, I would point you to the Choice God gave them: Deuteronomy 28:1, 13; the Curse He placed upon them: Verse 63 (reading and understanding the context is so very important); and the Course He has laid out for them: 30:1-3.

God's plan is not dependent upon America's success, or her continuance. We saw in earlier scriptures how all nations will forsake Israel. She will be absolutely alone, without one friend in the world. It is then, at the end of the Tribulation Period, that God will deliver her, and destroy all her enemies.

Are you understanding how that America will be among those enemies, if she continues as a nation? America is on a downhill run away from her Christian roots. Following the rapture of the Church, there will not be one single person left in America who believes in Christ. In light of her spiritual decline, and with the absence of God's people, she will in no sense be a Christian nation in that day. She will become the enemy of God every bit as much as other godless, and other-god nations of earth.

It may happen prior to that time! Our government is departing from the philosophy and principles upon which our fathers founded this nation. We, the citizens, have allowed it. They removed the school classroom from the home, and the church, to a government building. They ejected God from the school room, and replaced him with the god of humanism (which the courts have declared to be a religion). They replaced the foundational text, the Bible, with Darwin's theory of evolution. Our kids were told there was no Creator-God to whom we are responsible; that we are but advanced animals, and answerable to no one but ourselves. Consequently, there can be no absolute standards by which one must conduct oneself, but each generation is free to decide what is right, or wrong, and do what seems right in their own sight (note Judges 21:25). They robbed our children of their innocence, and taught them an early age how to have sex. But they refused to instill in them the convictions to abstain from that activity, until the proper time. Then, because of increasing promiscuity, abortion was legalized, in part, to get rid of the consequences of their conduct. Finally, sexual protection was provided that they might continue in their sin, and avoid the dual consequences of their sin, namely, pregnancy and STDs. They barred preachers from the classrooms and assemblies, and, of necessity, replaced them with policemen. Once, God's Word and pastors helped maintain law and order. Now, it takes handguns and dogs. Since our children can't find satisfaction in Christ, they now turn to drugs and an inordinate preoccupation with sex, in the attempt to satisfy natural cravings, and quiet the inner man.

My last word is twofold: First, while we love America—it is the America of our founding fathers that we love. We have no obligation to love a socialist America. We must prevent such, first, at the ballot box. Secondly, we must not think that God needs America to fulfill his plan and purposes, in this world. It is Israel that is the focal point of His plan, and not our beloved land.

6.  Is Israel Home to Stay?...February 16, 2010

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is reported today to have said (http://www.onenewsnow.com/Culture/Default.as px?id=898508) that the prophecy in Ezekiel, Chapter 37, has been fulfilled. (Please take time to read it.) I'm glad to know that he, evidently, takes Bible prophecy literally, and has knowledge of it.

If it is, as he says, that this prophecy has been fulfilled, then it follows that Israel is in her land to stay, and will never lose it again. Amos 9:15 makes that clear. It only takes one prophecy to establish a fact, but when many others say the same, the prophecy is doubly certain. Ezekiel 28:25, 26 is just one more passage, of many, to verify that our position is correct.

However, we need to realize that it is when they are returned to the land by the hand of God, that this truth will be realized. I would submit to you, that such a return has not yet happened. This is not to say that God is not in their presence there now, but that it is not the direct fulfillment of Bible prophecy.

The Prime Minister does not seem to recognize Ezekiel 37:14 as a reference to the Holy Spirit (note the commentary of Jan Markell, founder and director of Olive Tree Ministries, within the cited article), but in some kind of a generic sense, as in a new attitude. Since Israel, nationally, continues in unbelief toward their Messiah, it is not possible that their current presence in the Land fulfills prophecy; that the Holy Spirit has now come upon them.

The current possession of her land is only "the same kind of thing," as is prophesied: It is not the final fulfillment. Zechariah 14:-3 makes this clear. With other prophecies, we know that the Anti-Christ will secure Israel and guarantee her safety and protection for seven years. But in the midst of that time period, he will break that treaty, and come against her in great wrath. That is when Isaiah's portrait, in 1:8, will be realized. Her only resource then will be her God. He will deliver her. He will protect her. He will bring back her sons (Zephaniah 3:20)—not one will be left behind. He will purge them (Ezekiel 20:37, 38), and will permanently establish them in the land. Finally, they will know Who Jesus is!! (Ezekiel 20:42). (Please read Ezekiel 20. It will give you a great overview of Israel's history, and future.)

7.  Looking for the Rapture, while watching the signs!...February 22, 2010

II Samuel 7, particularly, verses 11, 16 and 27, speaks of God’s promise to David, to build him a house. The word “house,” is a euphemism for “family,” or “lineage.” God certainly was not in the home construction business. It is a play on words. David wanted to build God a house (i.e. a temple), but God rejects David’s plan, and promises to build a house (household), for David. In verse twelve, it is called “His Kingdom.”

At least three things are to be noted:

First, it is for a future time—future from David’s time (12). It is in the lifetime of a future seed that God would establish David’s kingdom.

Secondly, it is characterized by a distinctive duration: Forever (13, 16).

Thirdly, the possibility of failure is acknowledged. Verse 14 intimates the future disobedience of Israel, but is quickly shored up with the promise that God will not utterly forsake Israel. There will be judgment, chastisement, but in mercy (14, 15).

II Samuel 7 constitutes the seed promise. The maturing plant is revisited in Amos 9.

The prophet declares in Amos 9:1-7, the disobedience of David’s descendants.

In verses 8-10, we see God’s punishment upon them. They are to be destroyed, but not utterly. They will be sifted among the nations of earth. This is the dispersion, which continues a reality, even in this day.

But verses 11-15, heralds the hope of Israel’s restoration. In verse 11, David’s house is to be raised up again. Israel will then possess Palestine—the land erroneously so-called today by her enemies; the land which the so-called Palestinian leaders insist is theirs.
For, God will bring back her sons, and give the land of Israel to her (14), and it shall be hers forever (15).

Is the promise still valid? Has the church replaced Israel? The questions are answered, the matter settled, and current day deniers rebuked, by many New Testament statements, not the least of which is found in Acts 15. The Apostles James and Peter confirm that their words are based upon the Old Testament prophets (David and Amos, as seen above). God is not finished with Israel. The Church has not replaced Israel, neither has it become the recipient of the promises made to her. Verse sixteen clearly establishes that God’s promises are without any changing of His mind. David’s house will be restored, just as God said.

Verses 16 and 17 clearly establish that God has plans for all three groups of this earth’s inhabitants (note I Corinthians 10:32), namely: Israel (v. 16 “Tabernacle of David), The Church (v. 17, those upon whom “my name is called”), and the Gentiles (v. 17, “the residue of men’).

We are looking for the Rapture. Meanwhile, the signs are building toward the Return of Christ to Earth, to restore His chosen nation, and to reign for a thousand years, in a kingdom that shall have no end!

8.  Global Warming: Another Great Hoax!...March 3, 2010

The world was on the verge of accepting global warming as a fact. The truth is, while global warming may be a fact, only enough years of record keeping, to be able to establish a firm and consistent warming trend can make it a firm conclusion. But even if global warming is occurring, there is no real problem.

I recall many years ago, in my home town, Saturday yard sales became very popular. So much so, in fact, that city leaders were considering banning them, or restricting them, due to feared competition with established retail businesses. It seemed clear to me, then, under the principles of capitalism, the local government was about to err. Leave the "yard sellers" alone. If that becomes the prominent way of doing business, and box stores are put out of business, so be it. Let our free enterprise system work.

It is similarly so with global warming—or, climate change, as the case may be. If the temperatures change, glaciers melt, gardens become deserts—so be it. The populace that loses their lively hood in one location would just pull up roots and go to where they can engage in it, or, change livelihoods!

Now, the title above is a little misleading. You see, global warming may, or may not be occurring. If it is, however, it will not destroy the earth. It will not be the disaster some proclaim--if it is occurring naturally.

It is not global warming that is a hoax, but, as has been clearly unveiled in recent days, "Man-made global warming." Those who comprise the originators of the premise have now admitted their error and, and even their attempts at deception.

There is no legitimate evidence that man is causing the earth to warm excessively! The earth will not be destroyed by natural climate change. Note these words from the Creator God:

1. While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease (Genesis 8:22).

Further support is found in Jeremiah 31:35, 36.

We have God's assurance that the natural cycle will neither be interrupted, nor ever cease cycling.

2. But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men (II Peter 3:7).

The day is coming that the earth and heaven will be destroyed and replaced (see the context of this verse). But, until then, God is sustaining what he created, until He is finished with it (note Colossians 1:17).

3.Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created (Revelation 4:11).

God created all, and did it for his pleasure. That is, He created all by His divine decree, for His purposes. Should one really think that puny man can defeat the purposes of God?

Man's first great hoax was the development and fostering of the theory of evolution. That is the root of all error in modern day science and morality. Hopefully, the second is about to bite the dust.

9.  Recite it Right!...March 9, 2010

The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag is meaningful to true patriots. Sadly, it appears to have lost its respect among many of the newer generations. Just watch at sporting events how people respond and react to the singing of our National Anthem, and you will easily see how little patriotism is manifested. An interesting study might be to analyze the contrasts of manifested patriotism among different age groups, within one gathering.

There is another error of which all of us are guilty (with rare exceptions).

The Pledge was first published in a national magazine on September 8, 1892.
It, in its infancy, it read:

I pledge allegiance to my Flag,
and to the Republic for which it stands:
one Nation indivisible,
With Liberty and Justice for all.

One month later, millions of school children, across America, recited it in their respective assemblies.

Maturation occurred slowly, until in the mid Twentieth Century, the final change was instituted. On June 14, (Flag Day) 1954, President Eisenhower approved the additional insertion of the words, “Under God.” In the approval, the President said:

In this way we are reaffirming the transcendence of religious faith in America's heritage and future; in this way we shall constantly strengthen those spiritual weapons which forever will be our country's most powerful resource in peace and war.

One year after this affirmation by the President, the United States Supreme Court ruled that school children could not be forced the recite the pledge as a part of the school’s daily routine. The Court’s attitude, reflective of a prevailing spirit growing, and continuing until this day, is more disturbing than the ruling itself.

Surely, we need to instill in our children and grandchildren, a love for our Lord, and for our country. I fear it is neither being taught by word, or example, in government (not “public”—that is a misnomer) schools.

As concerns the error we make—even we who delight in reciting the pledge—involves the way we say it. The Pledge, as it now reads, is:

I pledge allegiance to the Flag
of the United States of America,
and to the Republic for which it stands:
one Nation under God, indivisible,
With Liberty and Justice for all.

That reads correctly, but we don’t recite it correctly. Let me suggest that you recite it, then look at the text and read it, paying particular attention to the punctuation. Did you discern the error?

We, in reciting it, say: “…one Nation (we erroneously pause, and then continue) under God….” But, there is no comma between “Nation,” and “Under.” We are not one nation in and of ourselves. We are “One nation under God.”

The Preamble to our Constitution, reads:

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

Note that it does not say that we “secure liberty,” but, the “blessings of liberty.” Liberty does not come from the constitution, but from God. The Constitution guarantees the protection of our God-given liberty. It is only within the guarantee of liberty that forming a union is of any value.

Further evidence that this is the true view, is found in the words of the Declaration of Independence:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men….

Governments are instituted, not to rule over people in slavery; not to provide economically, or health-wise, for people. But, they are instituted “among men,” to secure the rights to the people—the rights that are endowed to us by our Creator. (Further, it would be incredulous to think that our nation’s Founders would have had any God in mind, save the God of the Bible—the Creator God.)

The Declaration further declares that when a government digresses to the point of violating and robbing us of these principles, the people have the right to abolish it, and establish a new government.

So, the next time you participate in reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, exercise some boldness: Politely inform the leadership of the error, and request the pledge be repeated, correctly.

A second thing needful--insure that the American Flag is properly displayed: (Article #12.)

Leviticus 25:10.

10. You are called a Baptist. So What?...March 15, 2010

The modern trend appears to be that of dumping our identity as Baptists, and going generic, as “Community Church,” or some such.

The story goes, that a lady once asked a Baptist preacher what he would be if he were not a Baptist. His reply was, “I’d be ashamed.”

One either counts the matter as relatively insignificant, or ignores the matter out of indifference—both reactions are either by choice, or out of ignorance. Or, hopefully, you are Baptist by conviction—i.e., that our Baptist heritage is worth dying for.

Now, we are not intending to address whether being a Baptist saves, or if only Baptists are going to Heaven. Such matters are settled in a proper, biblical view of salvation. Our discussion is a step beyond that—i.e. once one is saved, of what importance is the matter of what church one joins?

One reason so many don’t realize the seriousness of the matter is that we Baptists have not been informed about our heritage. We know much about the founders of the major denominations, as Luther, Calvin, John Knox and the Wesleys. We have heard much through the years of great men such as Billy Sunday, R.A. Torrey, D.L. Moody, W. B Riley, and other names held in great revere. These were great men, but not Baptists. The point it, why do we know so much about them, while we are so ignorant of our own Baptist heritage?

How much do you know about Shubal Stearns? Daniel and Martha (Stearns) Marshall? Isaac Backus? John Leland? And Roger Williams (a name you know, but likely not sure what to think of him)? What about William Webber, Joseph Anthony, Augustine Easton, John Weatherford, John Tanner, Jeremiah Walker and David Tinsley—such men as those who were whipped and flogged, and even died because of their Baptist convictions!

How much has been taught in your local Baptist church concerning the influence that Baptists had in history--as exerted upon James Madison--in securing religious liberty, the Bill of Rights, and saving us from the state-church system demanded by the Presbyterians and other denominations?

While one is not saved by being a Baptist, we ought to be Baptist by conviction! For instance, what denominational church does not teach that baptism saves, or is necessary for in salvation? Which one does not baptize babies? Baptists neither profess nor practice either of the two. Are you aware of the price paid by our Baptist forefathers—and mothers—in America, who would not compromise on these principles? They were not preferences, but convictions!

I’m no expert in these matters, but I am seeking to learn that of which I have been ignorant for so long. It was neither taught by my Pastors, nor in my alma mater. I sincerely desire you to join me in this quest, that we neither be deceived, nor led astray by flamboyant television turncoats, nor area pastors compromising, in order to build big churches, and a similar name for themselves.

Want to know more? I trust so. If so, start here:

http://www.21tnt.com

On this site, begin with all the links that relate to Pastor James Beller.

Get to know John Leland, and visit daily This Day in Baptist History.

Finally--remember, this is just to get started—Click on "Ten Affirmations of Baptist Heritage and History." Get to know, and understand, these eye-opening facts!

I came so close to being reared in a Church of Christ environment. Thank God for the marvelous way he redirected my Mom and Dad’s steps, to get us into a good Bible believing, gospel preaching, local Baptist Church, where we all heard the gospel, and God got us right with Him!! Thank God for our Baptist Heritage!

11. Where’s the Fruit?...March 28, 2010

The success of a democratic form of government is totally at the mercy of the quality of the men who administer it. When men boldly speak lies, hiding their evil designs behind elaborate rhetoric, democracies will fail. That is why Muslim countries will never be able to successfully maintain a democratic form of government. A part of Islamic doctrine is that lies are sometimes necessary to achieve desired ends. Modern philosophy says it this way: “The ends justify the means.”

Historical references abundantly testify that our country was founded on Christian principles, mined from the Word of God. Only as our religious, political, and moral leaders conform to those principles can our country continue with the blessings of God.

The preponderance of solutions offered by political and media pundits, for our current dilemmas, seem to focus continually on the fruit of national errors, instead of on the root. They labor to solve what is wrong, rather than changing that which caused the wrong. The Root Error in philosophy and conduct is basing the same on evolutionary theories, instead of God’s absolute standards. Neither have they any concept of God’s anger toward our sin--that God is not pleased with us, and that judgment lies just ahead. Therefore no action we take in solving national problems can succeed until we admit our sins, and turn to God from our sins.

Until America comes to grips with the sins of homosexuality, abortion, and the recognition that God’s plan and actions are based on the welfare and future of Israel, and not America, there can be no retaining of God’s favor.

A friend of mine has in her possession a personal reply from our President, Barack Obama, in which he confirms his identification as a Christian. One might think that we must take him at his word. However, our Lord said we would know such according to their fruits. Further evidence of our President’s religious views may be found in a video that is available for viewing. You will have to decide for yourself if the video is legitimate, or, is a concocted array of sound bites so assembled to portray our President as a Muslim. We are not his judge, but neither are we required to accept his claim of Christianity, when there is no fruit to support it.

Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=tCAffMSWSz Y#t=28. I highly encourage you to invest ten minutes of your valuable time, for watching it.

There is no attempt here to turn this web site into a political forum. Rather, our concern is seeing the blessings of our God retained, or returned, as the case may be, to America, that “…we may live a quiet and peaceable life…” (I Timothy 2:2), and continue free to serve our Lord without fear of reprisal. The spiritual condition of our President has a direct bearing on this matter.

12. The citizenry called it treason: God called it Truth!...April 14, 2010

There was a time in our country when some very godly, and bold men, called of God, would stand to speak the truth—and had the ear of the media. No more! Yes, there are men still who would speak, but no one will give them a platform. When have you last seen a true servant of God on a TV Talk Show or news cast, interviewed, and allowed to tell America, and the world, what God says? I know of no one today who has such an opportunity.

Most of the cable TV conservative pundits are Roman Catholic, with a sprinkling of Mormon, Protestant, and Jewish backgrounds. Some profess to know God, and to care about His blessings. However, they are ignorant of, or choose to ignore, God’s plan and purposes for the nation of Israel. Their professed allegiance to Israel is primarily because that nation is democratic in government, peaceful in international relations, and trustworthy in her goals. It is not because she is chosen of God to one day be the Head of the nations of earth. Not one, to my knowledge, acknowledges that!

Not one (I’ll be glad to be proven wrong!) views the Bible as the final authority in all matters of doctrine and practice. If so, they would be crying out against partitioning Israel’s home land, as well as demanding an end to abortion, and opposing homosexuality. If the Bible were believed, and understood by them, evolution would be rejected outright, and they would demand that Biblical creationism be the mainstay of science in government schools.

I’m looking at the TEA Party movement, to see if I ought to get involved. They allow signs and posters to be carried. I wonder what would happen if a man (or, woman) of God showed up with a posters warning of God’s judgment on a nation that has forsaken him, legalizes abortion, and allows homosexual perversions to flourish? (I have not one ounce of approval for the Idaho, so-called Baptist group that is doing a similar thing out of hatred for sinners. Their actions are not becoming of the gospel of Christ.)

My bible reading this morning took me to Jeremiah 37. Verse 15, says:

"Wherefore the princes were wroth with Jeremiah, and smote him, and put him in prison in the house of Jonathan the scribe: for they had made that the prison."

The prophet was beaten, and locked up in a vermin infested dungeon for preaching the truth. What was that truth? Simply that Jerusalem was going to be overthrown, and the government was not to oppose the enemy, but rather to submit to captivity. Modern day Jeremiahs must warn America of the judgment ahead, unless she gives God His rightful place (Psalm 9:17). The citizenry called it treason: God called it Truth!

I believe we need to pray for boldness to speak the truth, and the opportunity to do so, while being willing to pay whatever price might be imposed. We need some men who will gain the ear of the nation, and be willing to warn it of coming judgment. No matter what economic problems we solve, until, and unless, America turns to God, He will not allow us success. Sexual perversion, the slaughter of the unborn, and the forsaking of Israel—these will rob America of the blessings of God, no matter what we might think we can achieve at the ballot box.

I hear someone say, they won’t listen. Do you understand the power of the Word of God? Consider this account from America’s past:

No one opposed Dutton more strongly than his father, who carried out a threat to horsewhip his own wife, Dutton’s mother, because she slipped out to hear their son preach. He then pursued Dutton with gun in order to murder him. His wife courageously challenged her husband, pointing out that he, as a sporting man, gave a bird a chance at flight before he shot it. She proposed that he should hear his son preach before shooting him. Dutton’s father accepted the challenge, and he fell under the conviction of the Holy Spirit and soon was made alive in Jesus Christ. He was baptized by that same son whom he purposed to slay. ("From This Day in Baptist History" by Dr. David L. Cummins.)

God does not charge His servants with the responsibility for the reactions of the people. We are responsible for obeying His command to preach the gospel and warn the people of judgment to come. Someone needs to pray for a public pulpit!  

 The now late Dr. Charles Stevens used to pound into us student’s heads: “Our job is not to save this ship (i.e. the world)—it is going down: Our job is to rescue the passengers off the ship, and get them aboard the Old Ship of Zion.”

 Conservative Talk-show Hosts, and conservative activists, are seeking to arouse the citizenry from the slumber of carelessness, and laboring to see our country regain its sense, make wise decisions and reclaim a historically principled course of freedom and safety.

It ain’t agonna work—if you will pardon the slaughter of grammar—for two reasons:

Firstly, is the matter of Bible Prophecy. The Word predicts the worsening of societal conduct; to the point that only the appearance of a savior can stops its rapid decline. The destruction of society will be marked by an increase of earthquakes and other “natural” disasters, the increasing rampage of ungodliness, the collapse of the world’s individual monetary systems, leading to the establishing of a one world society—government, economy, and religion. This establishing will, temporarily, under the control of a self-serving savior, Antichrist, produce a short-lived peace.

Not until now have we seen these things developing on a world-wide scale. It started decades ago—as long as two centuries ago—in America, as the Progressives subtly began their sinister efforts to destroy capitalism, and to join Europe in some socialistic form of government.

The one-world system is going to be established. Antichrist will come. Persecution of Christ’s followers will increase. Godlessness will reign. The judgment of God will fall!

The only factor that will prove the above untrue, is for us to discover that we are not actually as close to the Rapture, as we believe we are. Only time will tell.

I have included no scriptural support for the above thesis. However, many of the studies within this site deal with these matters. The Books of Daniel, The Revelation, and Matthew, Chapter 24, and Luke, Chapters 17 and 21, interpreted according to sound dispensational principles, are certainly prime sources of support. However, it is not that they support what I have said. It is that I have stated the results of my exegetical study of these, and other, passages.

The second reason follows…next time!

I often wonder if we did not get off track, during the years of the Moral Majority, and similar movements. We were engaging in trying to save a sinking ship. I certainly believe in participating in our democratic form of government, and using my limited influence to steer it in the right direction. But…were we not dealing with the fruit of our problems, rather than the root? We spent countless hours, and untold monies, to try to get unregenerate political leaders to make choices, and set standards only understood and adhered to by God’s people.

If all that time, effort and money had been expended--invested—in soul-winning; godly people, in bible churches, leading our country politically, socially, and “religiously,” would have led us the correct way. Because we now have a political system in Washington, and the majority of our States, which stems from a collective corrupt heart—men and women trained in homes which were ungodly, schools which are godless, universities which are Anti-God, and deceived in religious organizations which are liberal in theology and practice--the course being steered is under the judgment of the God in Whom they no longer believe—not in sincerity, and with conviction, at least.

Have you read Psalm Two, lately?

The efforts of the Tea Party movement, and similar endeavors, are honorable. However, the prime concern seems to be that of rescuing the economy. Should not the primary objective be to repent and return to God, seeking His blessings?

The Tea Party Movement, in which I have a desire to participate, is not honoring God in their endeavor—if the recent meeting in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is typical. Finally, after poignantly and proudly proclaiming its agenda, through several orations, they did ask God, in the benediction, to bless their agenda. There appeared to be no thought at the beginning to ask His direction and blessing. It was only, as though an afterthought, at the end, a token, prayer, offered by a Pastor of a liberal denomination, was read (or, well rehearsed, as the case may be), instructing God how He ought to accept their agenda, and bless it.

Until America repents of her sins and restores the God of our Fathers to His rightful place, no social, religious, or political endeavor will succeed in restoring our prosperity.

Until this people repent of, and outlaw abortion, restore the fidelity of the home, reject homosexuality, and make this land again “One nation under God,” there will be no rescuing of our freedom and establishing of peace.

Prophecy says things will get worse. Perversion says God must judge. Praying is in order, that we might “lead a quiet and peaceable life” (I Timothy 2:2), until judgment falls—or, unto our Lord comes for us.

The God ordained task of the Church is to “Preach the Gospel to sinners,” not, ‘Patch the holes in the hull.”

There is an ad on TV, currently, that well describes the growing attitude in America, at least among liberals, toward Christians, and godly principles and standards of conduct. The promoted product is called the “Topsy-Turvy Tomato Plant.” The connotation is one of “being upside down.”

The stream of American opinion that has the ear of the media, and is thereby voiced as the main view, well fits the description of the referenced product. They agree that some things are wrong in America, and some things right. Among the right ones that might be enumerated, are: Abortion; sexual activity outside of the marriage bonds; homosexuality; amnesty for alien law breakers; the right of politicians to live their private lives as they please, and to make their own rules as they go (providing, of course, the politician is a Democrat, playing ball with the party leaders); ignoring our founding constitution, whenever it might be expedient to do so, to promote the progressive-liberal agenda; and lying, if it is for the greater good; and, perhaps the newest one--Being a Muslim (who can do no wrong, and is totally exempt from any “separation of church and state” matters, as required (so they say) by the First Amendment to our Constitution). Indeed, all these things are good and honorable, to the progressive liberals currently directing our country.

What then, to them, is evil? Well, let us enumerate them: Well, there is…uh…oh my! Whatever is considered evil, by them? Oh yes, now I know: It is naming the Name of Christ Jesus, and holding to absolute, unchanging standards of conduct. It is: Opposing abortion, believing it is murder; calling sex outside of marriage a violation of God’s standards; classifying homosexuality a perversion of God’s holiness; believing that illegal aliens who have broken our laws should be punished and deported, and that our political, social and religious leaders should be held to the highest standards of conduct.

Now, let’s see if I have this right: God is for good, and the Devil for evil. That means, then, that God is for the things that our President, his Cabinet, his Czars, and the Progressives in Congress, are for. And we, who hold biblical standards and convictions, opposing the conduct of our leaders, are following the Devil!!

The national tomato plant really is growing “upside down!” Read Jeremiah 2:11-13, by interpretation, to the nation of Israel, but which may be fittingly applied to America.

Patriotism is commendable, and we love the patriotic songs, speeches and symbols of his great land. We are coming into the period when we love to demonstrate our allegiance to the United States of America, in honoring the birthday of our country, and may I say, of freedom in this world as it had never been previously known or enjoyed.

But...

What if America fails? What if freedom disappears from the earth? What if God—the only True and Living God—is no longer acknowledged? What if America degenerates into socialism, or fascism? The Muslim design is, doubtless, to transition us into an Islamic State.

There will be a price to pay, to prevent it from happening. Do you recall the TV commercial featuring the slogan, "Pay me now, or pay me later"? That is where we are in America. We will pay the price now to prevent the demise of our land, or our grandchildren will pay a terrible price, later, to try to cope with it.

We are admonished in Scripture to pray for our leaders (note I Timothy 2:2). This verse is often quoted, or referenced, but rarely does anyone include in their exhortation the reason given for praying for them. That reason is clearly for our own wellbeing within our society (invest the time to turn in the Bible and read the verse, and you will you see this). (One lady, it is reported, when admonished to pray over her own difficult circumstances, said, "Oh my goodness, has it come to that?")

We surely must do all we can—at the ballot box, in personal political involvement, and prayer, to prevent our nation's demise.

Two things:

1. If our freedom and form of government irreparably fails, I have no further obligation of patriotism to an atheistic, or Islamic, socialistic form of government. My allegiance is to the flag that represents the government of our Fathers, and of the Constitution they gave us. I have no allegiance to Sharia Law, but to Constitutional Law. (It is worthy of note, that Sharia Law derives from the Koran, a religious book. Some who would accept that, simultaneously deny that our Constitutional Law derives from the Bible.)

1.  

   a. America must fail, in some way, to some extent, to simply be absent from any mention in Bible Prophecy.

   b. America will become godless, or Muslim (same thing!), without the presence of one single born-again citizen.

   c. America (if still existing), will turn against the Nation of Israel

   d. Israel will again lose her Homeland.

   e. There will be a Palestinian State established.

   f. Antichrist will bring a false peace and protect Israel, before he turns his wrath against her.

   g. It will happen that no nation on earth will support Israel. She will be totally alone, under assault from the whole world.

   h. Russia and Iran will lead an assault against her.

   i. God will, at the last moment, rescue her, and exalt her to her rightful place as the Head of all the nations..

2. We must understand that America must fail. A popular radio/tv talk show host indicated a few days ago, that if America fails, the whole world will be lost. He is a good man, but largely ignorant of, or simply chooses to ignore, Biblical Truth concerning future events. Biblically:

(No references are provided, on purpose. Support for these assertions can be found within my free Bible studies, within this web site. You are encouraged to get busy, if not already, learning the wonderful truths of Bible prophecy!)

The future does not depend on the success of America, but rather, upon the faithfulness of our God to His Word! America the Beautiful? Well, for now, but her beauty is fading. Let’s do all we can to delay the decline, and pray that Jesus comes for us before we have to witness her fall. It ain’t gonna be pretty!

17. Let's Get It Right!...August 10, 2010

We sometimes watch, in our house, the 70’s TV show entitled The Virginian. In a recent program we were lectured concerning the issues of “Saving our Trees,” and “Animal Rights.” That which so dominates societal views today, combined with one of Hollywood’s main objectives in producing movies—i.e. to influence societies views on social issues--was apparently “getting off the ground,” even in those days.

What should be the Christian’s attitude toward these issues? We have one authoritative source for establishing our positions. It is the Word of God! That blessed book has the answer for every question man is prone to ask. But, one’s approach to the Bible absolutely determines whether the correct answers will be found. Only a literal interpretation, viewed within a principled dispensational format, will fulfill the requirement.

There is a solid principle revealed by our Saviour that can help establish our position concerning environmental issues.

The context of Mark, Chapter Two, is vital to understanding the statement of our Lord. He, with just seventeen words (in KJV English) stops the mouth of the Pharisees, and sets the standard for us to use in the modern day social assault of Bible deniers.

Environmentalists, tree huggers, animal rights activists, and their fellow humanists, share common faults. They are evolutionists. If they identify themselves as Theistic Evolutionists, or if they lay claim to Christianity, their view of the Bible is faulty. They can be identified by the use of such faulty titles, as “Mother Nature,” and by their imputation of qualities only possessed by humans, to animals.

God created animals with life intact. Man was created lifeless, with life breathed in from the Creator. Consider the ramifications of that.

How could God have commanded, and approved, the slaughter of multiplied thousands of animals in the Old Testament, if animals are as much like humans as the animal rightists contend?

Were trees created to provide beauty in nature? Or, did God put them here to provide for the needs of man? How did the forests survive the thousands of years before America was settled and developed forest-fire-fighting methods?

A proper interpretation of the creation account, in the Book of Genesis, will provide clear answers to these questions.

Our Lord in one fell swoop silences his critics, puts an end to the attempts to trap Him, and sums up the whole matter, in this powerful declaration:

“And he said unto them, The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath…”(Mark 2:27).

Considered in the context, and applied to modern day social issues, we may restate His powerful principle, for understanding:

Trees were made for men, not men for trees; Animals were made for men, not men for animals.

Trees provide beautiful scenery, but are here for providing fruit, building houses and furniture, farm utensils, and even boats!

Animals are fascinating to view. But they are animals, and not human. They react to instincts created within them. They are not self conscious creatures, have no ability to exercise a will, and have no awareness of God. But, they are here to provide for man: They are nice to pet, fun to ride, good to lead the blind, rescue the lost, track down criminals, keep the balance of nature, to provide clothing, and…to eat!

That abuse is unacceptable should not even need stating.

God created both vegetation and beast. He is able to sustain them until the fulfillment of His purposes. Meanwhile, I think I’ll go have a nice juicy steak dinner! (Have you seen the prices lately—it more than likely will be a hamburger.) Might even pick my teeth with a tooth pick, afterward—carved out of some poor tree.

August 27, 2010....What Ever Are They Waiting For?

The scene is a WWII movie in which the good guys are anticipating an attack from enemy forces. Some lower rank soldier says from his foxhole, “What ever are they waiting for? Come on, let’s get it over with.”

Thinking back to the 9-11 attack on the twin towers, in New York City, was there not a feeling on the day after that this was just the beginning? Were we not expecting many more attacks of similar intensity, in the days, weeks, or months to follow?

What has happened? What are they waiting for? We are coming up on nine years. Why have they not attacked the U. S. with much devastation?

It seems it would be so easy for terrorists to greatly incapacitate our nation. Without listing the ways, all of which they have doubtless already considered, just imagaine the possibilitites. (Doing so should also challenge us to keep our eyes open for possibilie sinister activities around us.)

Why have they not already so attacked us? As always, God’s Word has the answer to our queries. It is much like the TV commercial that ran several years ago in which a very ‘Drill Sergeant WAC-like woman, and inspector on the factory production line says, “They don’t say Hanes until I say they say Hanes.”

The battle field commander must give the order for the enemy to attack. In our modern day scenario, God is still in control. Frankly, the terrorists cannot do anything, unless it fits into God’s plan, thus, He allows, or commands it, as the case may be. Consider this word from the pen of the Apostle Paul”:

“For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way” (II Thessalonians 2:7).”1
1. The word “letteth,” is recognized by scholars as an outdated English word whose meaning has changed though the years. It comes from a Greek word meaning, “To hold down,” or, “(hold) Fast.” Also, the phrase, “Taken out of the way,” is best understood as “Until He be taken out of the midst.”

The context of the passage concerns the timing of the Rapture of the Church, in relation to the revealing of the Antichrist. While the events leading to the Tribulation Period are now unfolding, they cannot come to full fruition until the One restricting their progress is removed from their midst. Using biblical logic, the summation is: The enemies of God can only do that for which God’s plan calls. Satan is restricted during this time of Holy Spirit limitations. Since He indwells the Church, the Rapture must occur prior to the beginning of the Tribulation. Then, after we are gone, boys, have at it!! You’ll not have to wait any longer.

Now, we do not know what we might have to suffer on the way to the Rapture, Millions of our forebears have, and many are suffering today. But, whatever comes, will come only by the permission of our God. They can do no more than He might allow. 

1. The word “letteth,” is recognized by scholars as an outdated English word whose meaning has changed though the years. It comes from a Greek word meaning, “To hold down,” or, “(hold) Fast.” Also, the phrase, “Taken out of the way,” is best understood as “Until He be taken out of the midst.”