TODAY'S NEWSLETTER...
It’s Not the Power Of Israel Or America That Has Changed This War—It Is The Power Of God – By Amir Tsarfati - https://harbingersdaily.com/amir-tsarfati-its-not-the-power-of-israel-or-america-that-has-changed-this-war-it-is-the-power-of-god/
(Galilee, Israel) — One year. Monday morning, 6:29 AM, October 7, everything here stopped as we remembered what took place 366 days ago. That was the moment that the terrorist-group Hamas began its barrage that eventually sent thousands of rockets toward Israel. At the same time that the projectiles were soaring toward the border, there were blood-thirsty men breaching the barrier with violence, lust, and murder in their eyes. Throughout the morning, thousands poured into Israel to carry out the worst sorts of brutality, assaults, tortures, kidnappings, and butchery that my people have experienced since the Holocaust. It’s been a hard, hard week. Emotional for me, for my family, for my nation. So many were lost on that day. So many have been lost since. Heartbreak is the legacy of evil acts. In Israel, we are drowning in heartbreak. While we mourned, our enemies celebrated. Hamas did their best to rub it in our faces. It was interesting to note, however, that while last year’s attack contained just under 4000 rockets, Monday’s attack consisted of 14. That gives you a pretty good picture of how it was for Hamas then and how it is for them now. Over the past year, Hamas has been decimated. And, because of the way that the terrorist organization imbedded themselves within the civilian population, both above and under the ground, the region of Gaza has also been devastated. Hamas’s intentions were to destroy our country; instead, they destroyed their own. It has taken me many months to be able to accept any positive aspects to October 7, but I can now recognize at least two good outcomes. First, it quashed the inner divisions within Israel that were tearing the country apart. At least, it did for a time. There are still elements within the political, judicial, and military structure that are toxic for the nation. An even more important outcome, however, was that the attack exposed the criminal neglect of the surrounding threat on our borders. How else could Hamas have poured in the way that they did? There were over 200 places along the fence line with Gaza that allowed the terrorists and Gazan citizens to rush in, brutalize and slaughter innocent civilians, then kidnap 250 Israelis back over the border. It never should have happened, and I’m appalled that our military let it occur. But we are in a new phase of our nation. There are no ostriches in our citizenry hiding their heads in the sand to the surrounding threats of our genocidal enemies. We woke up to the echoes of gunfire and realized that the attackers were in our own backyards. That is what has held this nation together through the harshness of the war in Gaza. We’ve done more than any other country in history to try to protect the innocent civilians. But there, undoubtedly, have been many deaths due to Hamas’s soulless habit of using their own population as human shields. Still, our country has kept fighting. Now, the fighting has focused on the north, and that war has been nothing short of miraculous. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that Hezbollah would be crippled in two-and-a-half weeks. Hezbollah was the terrorist group that I dreaded most. It was better funded, better armed, better trained, and was fully imbedded into Lebanese society and politics. Then came the beepers, and Hezbollah lost its balance. After that were the bombs that took out the group’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, along with a host of other terrorists and Iranians, and Hezbollah collapsed to the ground. In less than three weeks, 85% of their feared rocket launching capabilities were damaged or destroyed. This is not the power of Israel or the United States that has done this. It is the power of God. And speaking of the power of God, how’re things going in Tehran right now? The largest ballistic missile attack in the history of planet earth, and Israel lost one Arab who was crushed by a blown-out missile husk while wandering around outside in Jericho. God said He would protect His people, and that is exactly what He did. Now, Iran is in trouble. They are bracing for a response, as they spout off threats and even spread rumors of a nuclear test. And they are right to be scared. Israel is going to retaliate. But where? One option is to go after oil and gas facilities in a harsh economic attack. A second possibility is to hit missile and military bases. Third, we could assassinate key leaders, a skill for which we’ve shown a certain penchant. Or, four, we could wipe out Iran’s nuclear program. While I think it will likely be options one and, maybe, two, I wish it could be four. But with the current administration in the United States White House, it can’t happen. Biden and Harris are too afraid to make Iran mad, and we quite simply cannot destroy Tehran’s nuclear program without the help of the United States. The types of bombs needed, and the specific delivery systems are not part of our current arsenal. So, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is kind of stuck between what he can do and what he knows really needs doing. Imagine what might have happened just this past week if Iran already had nukes. While Bibi mulls over his decision, the Biden White House is doing all it can to undermine him. The president invited Defense Minister and Netanyahu rival, Yoav Gallant, to the White House to discuss strategy. When word got to the prime minister, he put a kibosh on that trip. It is undermining U.S. actions like this that demonstrate why so many in Israel are anxiously watching November’s elections in America. The person in the White House matters greatly to us. I would suspect that if Donald Trump makes it back into the Oval Office, then by January 2025 Iran’s nuclear scientists better start scurrying from their underground bunkers. One year in and we’re now fighting on direct fronts. We have the battle in the West Bank that keeps spilling over into individual terrorist attacks. Just yesterday in Hadera, a West Bank Arab went crazy with a knife and stabbed six people, two of them critically, before he was permanently put out of commission. In Gaza, the IDF is pushing the population through the humanitarian area to the south, in order to establish a northern Gaza buffer zone. There will no longer be any terrorists on our southern border. In Lebanon, Hezbollah is finally interested in a ceasefire without connecting it to any ceasefire in Gaza. Israel, however, responded, “Not so fast. You want a ceasefire in Lebanon? Get our hostages back from Gaza.” This was brilliant, because when you take a step back you can see who is really on the spot. It’s Iran, the puppet master of the proxies. Truly a genius move! God has given humanity free will. When people use that free will to do evil, God will step in and say, “Yeah, you’re going to pay dearly for that. However, in the meantime, I will use for good what you intended for bad.” That theological truth is on bold display in the Middle East. If the planned terror attacks had gone according to Iran’s timetable instead of Hamas’s inexplicable, attention-seeking premature start, the results could have been devastating for the entire nation of Israel. If the necessarily impossibly-precise interworking of Israel’s missile systems – Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow – hadn’t miraculously worked with such impossible precision during Iran’s April and September attacks, hundreds and maybe thousands of Israelis would have been killed or wounded. And, perhaps, most amazing of all, what might have happened if God hadn’t taken a mass of conscripted Gen-Z young adults and melded them into what might possibly be the most powerful fighting force our nation has ever seen? This is a generation of lions, of victors. They are truly incredible. Bible believers should not be surprised at what they are seeing in the Middle East right now. It fits into God’s prophetic timeline hand-in-glove. Iran needs to be beaten down so that they won’t trust their proxies anymore. That is what will turn them to a stronger coalition made up of Russia, Turkey, and some African countries. United together, they will attack Israel. When they do, it will not be the IDF or the prime minister or America who will fight the battle. It will be the Lord of Hosts, and it will be a supernatural victory that God will win for us. The people of Israel will be astonished and will begin looking for the Messiah. That’s when a new leader will arise who will be strong and wise enough to work out a deal for a new temple. The Jewish people will flock to him and celebrate him, at least until he demands that he be worshipped as a God. Panic will arise among many, and a number of the Jews will flee to a place that God has prepared for them until the time of that antichrist is over. It is then they will see Jesus returning with His church. They will recognize Him as the one that their ancestors pierced, they will mourn for Him and what they did to Him, and they will repent and receive Him one by one as their Messiah. That, my dear friends, is what the Bible says is in store for Israel. As we watch the events in the Middle East, what can the church do to help? Let me put it this way. If you take all the rockets that fell on Israel from the beginning of the war and all the ballistic missiles that flew from Iran – both times – and you accumulate all their power to kill, then you look at how many Israelis actually were killed, it doesn’t even make sense. Just like the birth of Israel doesn’t make sense to some people, so the survival of Israel doesn’t make sense to others. My only explanation is that the effective and fervent prayer of a righteous person avails much. When you pray for Israel, you are carrying out the most powerful act possible. Stronger than the weapons from France or Britain or America or Germany, the prayers of the church are what will keep Israel together and safe. So, that’s what I’m asking of you. When two or three of you are gathered together in God’s name, pray for Israel. You will be amazed at the power your faith wields. The U.S. Government Is Dramatically Expanding The Use Of Facial Recognition Technology - by Michael Snyder - https://theeconomiccollapseblog.com/the-u-s-government-is-dramatically-expanding-the-use-of-facial-recognition-technology/ Do you want to live in a society where you are required to have your face scanned wherever you go? If not, you may want to speak up now while you still can. As you will see below, the U.S. government is aggressively expanding the use of facial recognition technology for identification verification purposes. For now, the use of facial recognition technology will be optional. But as we have seen before, once a voluntary option is adopted by enough people our leaders have a way of making it mandatory. Of course, it isn’t just our government that is pushing facial recognition technology. It is popping up throughout our society, and given enough time it would literally be everywhere. Login.gov is billed as “a single sign-on solution for US government websites”, and now users of Login.gov will be given the option to use facial recognition technology to verify their identities… An online hub for Americans to access benefits and services across the federal government is giving its users a new option to sign on. The General Services Administration will begin offering facial recognition technology as an option for users of Login.gov, a one-stop for government-provided public services, to verify their identities. GSA’s Technology Transformation Services announced Wednesday it will allow Login.gov users to verify their identity online through facial technology that meets standards set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s 800-63-3 Identity Assurance Level 2 (IAL2) guidelines. We are being told that this will help reduce identity theft and fraud, and I don’t know anyone that likes identity theft and fraud. But do we really want to live in a dystopian world where our faces are constantly being scanned all the time? I certainly don’t. We are being told that this new facial recognition system will rely on “best-in-class facial matching algorithms”… After months of testing and a delay in 2023, users will now be able to verify their identity using a ‘proven facial matching technology’ approved by the General Services Administration, which will follow the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and will rely on ‘best-in-class facial matching algorithms’ All of this sounds really creepy to me. And this is certainly a way for the government to start getting all of our faces into a giant database. Login.gov already has more than 100 million users, and lots of them will inevitably choose the “convenience” and “security” of facial recognition… Federal agencies use Login.gov for people to verify their identities when logging in to access government benefits and services. The offering has over 100 million users already across over 50 federal and state agencies, and this news could affect how future users have to verify their identity to access information and benefits. “Proving your identity is a critical step in receiving many government benefits and services, and we want to ensure we are making that as easy and secure as possible for members of the public, while protecting against identity theft and fraud,” said GSA Administrator Robin Carnahan in a statement. For now, you will still be able to use other identification verification options. But once most people start using facial recognition, those other options could easily be taken away. Sadly, it isn’t just the government that we need to be concerned about. AI programs such as ChatGPT have turned out to be quite adept at identifying faces… Using “a crafted prompt designed to bypass the safeguard mechanisms of ChatGPT,” the researchers were able to test the program’s biometric capabilities – which they found to be significant. “Our study reveals that ChatGPT recognizes facial identities and differentiates between two facial images with considerable accuracy,” says their summary. “Additionally, experimental results demonstrate remarkable performance in gender detection and reasonable accuracy for the age estimation tasks.” Even more alarming is what a couple of Harvard students have been able to accomplish. They integrated PimEyes facial recognition software into a pair of Meta’s smart glasses, and they were able to instantly pull up the personal information of strangers by scanning their faces… Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses offer an iconic wearable packed with some smart features that allow users to engage in a hands-free experience. Two Harvard students have integrated smart glasses with a facial recognition system that helps automatically dox strangers and access their information in public. According to 404media, the facial recognition system called I-XRAY can be used to retrieve information such as phone numbers, addresses, or even social security numbers of strangers. All the user needs to do is look at the person. While software capabilities have been making the rounds, it is the hardware running the software that has been the talk of the town, which is Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses. Nguyen and Ardayfio created I-XRAY using Meta’s smart glasses along with PimEyes facial recognition software, which is currently the largest search engine. The entire system of fetching information on the individual is automatic, and the smart glasses start digging the data as soon as the face is in the frame. If we stay on the current trajectory that we are on, it would likely only be a matter of time before this sort of technology is everywhere. Can you imagine what criminals could do with this? A predator would not even need to follow you home. He could just scan your face without you even realizing it, and by scanning your face he could get your address, your phone number, and a whole host of other private details about your life. A lot of people out there just don’t get it. In a society without any privacy, the bad guys can always find you. Of course in a society without any privacy, there would be no hiding from tyranny either. When facial recognition technology is literally everywhere, there will be nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. Every time your face is scanned, your location will be known. Needless to say, most people already carry around phones that constantly monitor where they are anyway. But as the Big Brother surveillance grid that is being constructed all around us becomes even more pervasive, it won’t be too long before there is literally no opting out. I have been a very vocal advocate for privacy for over a decade, but during that time our privacy rights have been greatly eroded. Now is the time to take a stand, because once our privacy rights are completely gone it will be nearly impossible to get them back. ENTER OUR DONATION DRAWING A Chance to Win a Brand New 24-inch iMac with Retina 4.5K display -- most importantly, you will be helping to Support Prophecy Update! Please consider entering our donation drawing, not only might you win this brand new iMac, but more importantly, you will be helping to support Prophecy Update - thank you so very much!!! With the following configuration:
This system is valued at $2,499, and you might win, for a little as $25!!! Donation Drawing Fund We have set up a special fund for this donation-drawing on our donations page. For each donation of just $25, your name will be entered into our drawing for the iMac one-time. For each additional $25 increment, you will receive additional entries into the drawing. If you donate $100 dollars for example, your name will be entered four times into the drawing, you can enter as many times as you like! The offer starts today and the drawing will be held and announced on 11/30/24. This would make an excellent gift for a student, for your family, or for those who work from home. For a little as $25, you might win this awesome iMac, but most importantly, you will be helping to support this ministry! (CLICK HERE TO ENTER DRAWING) You can also mail in your entry to: PROPHECY UPDATE PO BOX 40516 BAKERSFIELD, CA 93384 (Please mark entry "iMac Drawing") PROPHECY UPDATE VIDEOS
RECOMMENDED READING & LINKS
Not Appointed to Wrath, But Not Immune To Persecution – Joe Hawkins - https://www.rev310.net/post/not-appointed-to-wrath-but-not-immune-to-persecution The concept of a pre-tribulation rapture has often been misunderstood, especially by critics who argue that those holding this view believe they will escape all forms of persecution. The truth, however, is far more nuanced. While the Bible clearly teaches that believers will be spared from the wrath of God, a future outpouring of divine judgment during the tribulation period, there is no promise that Christians will escape persecution in this present age. In fact, the Scriptures speak extensively about the persecution that believers will face before the rapture, and the global stage provides evidence of this reality. Persecution Is Not Escapable One of the most persistent misconceptions is that believers in the pre-tribulation rapture expect to escape all forms of hardship, particularly persecution. Critics argue that this belief fosters a sense of complacency or avoidance of suffering, but nothing could be further from the truth. While Christians are indeed promised deliverance from the coming "wrath" (1 Thessalonians 1:10, 5:9), this refers to the outpouring of God's wrath during the tribulation period, not to the trials, tribulations, and persecutions believers endure now. The Bible repeatedly tells us that persecution is part of the Christian experience. Jesus Himself warned His disciples, "In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). He also made it clear that those who follow Him would face opposition: "If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you" (John 15:18). The Apostle Paul echoed this sentiment when he told Timothy, "Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12). The reality is that the church has faced persecution from its inception, and it continues to face it today. The notion that pre-tribulation believers are somehow exempt from this reality is not supported by Scripture. What the Bible does teach is that Christians will be spared from the specific period of divine judgment, also known as the "Day of the Lord," but not from the trials of this world. A Global Landscape of Christian Persecution The persecution of Christians is not a future event; it is a present reality for millions around the world. According to the World Watch List 2023 by Open Doors, more than 360 million Christians face high levels of persecution and discrimination for their faith globally. The report highlights countries like North Korea, Afghanistan, Somalia, Libya, and Pakistan as some of the worst offenders when it comes to persecuting believers. In places like North Korea, simply owning a Bible can result in execution or life imprisonment. In Nigeria, thousands of Christians are murdered each year by Islamic militants such as Boko Haram and Fulani herdsmen. In India, radical Hindu groups often target Christians, leading to mob violence, forced conversions, and even death. These are not isolated incidents; they are part of a broader, systematic persecution of believers worldwide. According to Open Doors USA, in 2022 alone, 5,621 Christians were killed for their faith, 4,542 churches or Christian buildings were attacked, and 4,765 believers were detained without trial, arrested, sentenced, or imprisoned. These numbers serve as a stark reminder that persecution is not something believers will escape; it is something that many are experiencing right now. Persecution in the United States While the persecution faced by Christians in the United States may not be as overt or violent as in other parts of the world, it is still present and growing. American believers are increasingly facing legal, social, and cultural challenges for standing up for biblical values. The idea that persecution cannot happen in a country founded on religious freedom is rapidly being proven wrong. One notable case involved Christian baker Jack Phillips, who faced a legal battle after refusing to design a wedding cake for a same-sex couple due to his religious beliefs. The case, which went all the way to the Supreme Court, highlighted how Christians can be targeted for their faith, even in a country that values religious freedom. Phillips’ case is not isolated. Across the United States, Christian business owners, employees, and educators are facing fines, job loss, and public shaming for refusing to compromise their biblical convictions. A recent survey conducted by Lifeway Research in 2021 revealed that 60% of Protestant pastors believe religious liberty is on the decline in the U.S., with growing concerns about the future of religious freedom for Christians. This cultural shift can be seen in various forms of media, entertainment, and political discourse, where Christianity is often portrayed in a negative light. News outlets have reported an increasing number of incidents involving the targeting of churches and Christian symbols. For example, during the social unrest of 2020, several churches across the U.S. were vandalized or burned, with Christian monuments and statues being defaced. This shift reflects a cultural hostility toward the faith, one that is likely to increase as the world moves further away from biblical principles. The Biblical Call to Endure Persecution The Bible not only predicts that Christians will face persecution but also calls on believers to endure it faithfully. In Matthew 24, Jesus describes the events that will unfold in the last days, saying, "Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name" (Matthew 24:9). This passage clearly indicates that persecution is a certainty for followers of Christ, especially as we approach the end of the age. The Apostle Peter also encourages believers to endure suffering for the sake of Christ: "But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled" (1 Peter 3:14). In fact, Peter goes as far as to tell believers to "rejoice" when they share in the sufferings of Christ, as this is a mark of their faithfulness (1 Peter 4:13). Paul's letter to the Romans reinforces this idea of enduring persecution as a mark of the believer's faith. He writes, "Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? ... But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us" (Romans 8:35-37). These passages underscore the reality that persecution is not something to be feared, but something to be expected and endured through the strength of Christ. Rescued from Wrath, Not Persecution While persecution is an inevitable part of the Christian life, the Bible is clear that believers are not appointed to experience God's wrath. In 1 Thessalonians 5:9, Paul reassures the church, saying, "For God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ". This distinction is crucial in understanding the difference between persecution and divine wrath. Persecution comes from the world, Satan, and the forces of evil that oppose Christ and His followers. Wrath, on the other hand, is the righteous judgment of God poured out on a sinful, unbelieving world during the tribulation. Revelation 3:10 provides further assurance of deliverance from this period of wrath: "Because you have kept the word of My perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth". This promise, also referred to as the Blessed Hope (Titus 2:13) / Pre-Tribulation Rapture, is the basis for believing that while Christians will face persecution, they will not face the specific period of God's judgment during the Tribulation (70th week of Daniel). In Luke 21:36, Jesus commands His followers to pray that they "may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man". This is not an escape from suffering in general, but from the unparalleled wrath of God that will be poured out in the final days. The church is not destined to endure this wrath, but until the rapture, Christians are called to stand firm in the face of persecution. Addressing the Desire for Persecution There are some believers who, despite not currently facing persecution, feel that they need to experience it in order to validate their faith. This mindset is deeply problematic, as it often stems from a misunderstanding of salvation and Christian service. The notion that one must suffer to be considered faithful can easily devolve into a form of works-based salvation, where personal suffering is viewed as a way to earn God's favor. This is contrary to the message of the gospel, which clearly teaches that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9). For those who believe they need to suffer to validate their faith, the solution is not to seek out persecution but to boldly proclaim the name of Jesus Christ in their daily lives. In my experience, many of the individuals who hold this belief are not experiencing persecution because they aren’t posing a significant threat to Satan’s stronghold. Simply put, they are too comfortable in their faith. The Bible calls us to be bold witnesses for Christ, and if these individuals are genuinely seeking persecution, perhaps they should start by stepping outside their comfort zones. Proclaiming Christ in a hostile world will naturally bring persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). But for those who feel that they need to be persecuted, I would challenge them to "get off the couch" and start engaging in the spiritual battle more actively. If they’re serious about their convictions, I would even recommend that they take the gospel message to places like North Korea or China, countries where believers face severe consequences for their faith. If these individuals desire persecution, let them see how boldly proclaiming the name of Christ in such places challenges their mindset. True persecution is not something to be sought out as a badge of honor; it is the result of faithfully living out the Christian life in a world that opposes Christ. Conclusion The Bible does not teach that believers will escape persecution; in fact, it teaches the opposite. Persecution is an inescapable reality for those who follow Christ. Whether in countries where believers face imprisonment or death for their faith, or in nations where cultural and legal pressures seek to marginalize and silence Christians, persecution is a present and future reality. The promise of the pre-tribulation rapture is not a promise to escape persecution, but a promise to escape the wrath of God that will be poured out on the earth. The growing persecution of Christians worldwide, whether through violent oppression or subtle cultural pressure, serves as a reminder that believers are engaged in a spiritual battle. Yet, even in the midst of persecution, we are called to endure, to remain faithful, and to keep our eyes fixed on the hope of Christ's return. We are not appointed to God's wrath, but until He calls us home, we are called to take up our cross and follow Him, even in the face of persecution. Fan The Flame - By Nathele Graham - https://www.raptureready.com/2024/10/06/fan-the-flame-by-nathele-graham/ How many Christians sit in a pew at least once a week and doze off? The sermon is designed to make everybody feel good about themselves and not be upset by God’s truth. Most quench the fire of the Holy Spirit instead of fanning the flame. “Quench not the Spirit.” 1 Thessalonians 5:19. It would have been amazing to be present on that first Pentecost day. The day the Church was born. The day had started like a normal day. The Jewish Law was firmly established in the rituals and habits of the people. This was the day when the Jewish people celebrated God giving the Law to Moses. Traditionally, it was also seen as the birthday of Enoch, as well as the date he was raptured. Now we see it as the day a fire was lit that changed the entire world. Jesus did many things that upset the Pharisees. The thing that upset them more than anything was when He (rightfully) claimed to be God. They would pick up stones to stone Him, but He always slipped away. Eventually, they convinced the Romans to crucify Him. The disciples had trusted Jesus and hoped that He would rise up and set the Jewish nation free, but God’s plan was much bigger than getting the Roman army out of their land. Now their hopes were dashed. The disciples knew that Jesus died on that cross. They knew He was buried in a sealed tomb with Roman soldiers guarding it. The disciples were disappointed that Jesus didn’t meet their expectations. Now their lives were in danger because of their association with Jesus. Can you imagine their astonishment when Mary Magdalene ran to tell them she had seen the Living Lord! He had risen from the dead!! Hallelujah!!! Now what? They met secretly behind a closed door and tried to figure out what was happening and what they should do. Thomas wasn’t there, and of course, Judas had committed suicide because he betrayed Christ. Peter was there but probably very disappointed in himself that he had failed Jesus by denying Him. As the disciples talked, suddenly Jesus walked in. Wow! They must have been shocked! Jesus showed them His hands and side, just so they had no doubt it was Him. “Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith, unto them. Receive ye the Holy Ghost” (John 20:21-22). The Holy Spirit was now a part of them, but what were they to do with that blessing? Later, they told Thomas the Good News, but he thought they were nuts! “The other disciples therefore said unto him, ‘We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe” (John 20:25). Doubting Thomas, he’s no different than many people today. The Good News is rejected because it defies human understanding. Faith in Jesus has to move from the head to the heart, and faith is the key. A few days later, Thomas got his wish. Once again, Jesus entered the room, but had He ever really left? He heard what Thomas had said and gave him the opportunity to touch the wounds. Does Jesus hear your idle words of disbelief and denial? How did Thomas react? “And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God” (John 20:28). Then Jesus said a remarkable thing. “Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed” (John 20:29). That’s me, and I hope that’s you, too. That wasn’t the last time they saw Jesus. He met them in Galilee where He talked to Peter about feeding the sheep and lambs. Peter had denied Jesus, but Jesus is always willing to forgive. By telling Peter to feed the sheep and lambs, Jesus let Peter know he was still a part of the group. Peter had always been rash in his ways and spoke his mind without thinking, and Jesus wanted to use those traits. Peter was a changed man after that meeting with Jesus. That’s what should happen to everyone who has an encounter with Jesus. When you meet Him, it may not be as dramatic as the chat Jesus had with Peter, but it should be life-changing. We are saved by Grace, but that should encourage us to put aside our old ways and allow Jesus to work through us. “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin” (Romans 6:6). Many people say they believe in Jesus and leave it at that. They don’t let go of the sin they supposedly repented of, so God’s plan for them is hindered. God knows hearts, and I can’t judge another person’s faith, but sin will always compromise your walk with Jesus. So much had happened, and much more was about to happen. Jesus told them to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the promise of the Father. “For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence“ (Acts 1:5). They still had a lot to learn. Jesus came to give a much greater gift to all of humanity than a kingdom on earth. This gift was for all people. The Jewish leaders had rejected Christ and made sure He was crucified, but that gave Gentiles the opportunity to accept Christ for salvation. One day, very soon, the Rapture will take all Christians away from the Tribulation that is to come upon the earth. Now is the time to spread the Gospel of Christ. Tomorrow may be too late. The disciples had more work to do for the Lord, and they needed God’s help. Jesus told them to wait in Jerusalem for power. “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you, and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth“ (Acts 1:8). The “power” Jesus spoke of was the Greek word “dynamis,” a very powerful force. It’s power from God that enables us to work miracles and other acts of the Holy Spirit. They would soon understand the power they had through the Holy Spirit. They returned to the Upper Room where they resided in Jerusalem to wait for the promised power. They stayed together and didn’t stray from their faith. “These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren” (Acts 1:14). Too often when a person receives Christ, other Christians ignore the new convert. The person is left to figure it all out for themselves, then may fall back into sin and feel the fire of the Holy Spirit fade. That shouldn’t happen. Christians…new and old, lambs and sheep…need to continue with one accord. The disciples had a lot to talk over and speculate upon. It was Peter who had much insight and began to understand prophecy. “And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,) Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus” (Acts 1:15-16). He referred to Psalm 41:9 and other passages which had been read many times before, but Peter now saw through the understanding of a man filled with the Holy Spirit. Peter could see that Judas’ actions had been foretold centuries before. Peter was becoming the leader Jesus knew he would be. He was being led by the Holy Spirit. Then Pentecost came. “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting” (Acts 2:1-2). The power of the Holy Spirit was there. Notice how the Disciples were all together and of one accord. Pentecost was a celebration, and it would be normal for them to go celebrate with old friends and family. The Book of Ruth is always read, which is the account of a Jewish man taking a Gentile bride. Jesus was a Jewish man and took the Gentile church as His bride. “And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance” (Acts 2:3-4). What a marvelous happening! The power of the Holy Spirit was in them and on them. They weren’t quiet as they let the Holy Spirit move them. In today’s church, we seem to be very hushed and follow a set guide to worship. A quick welcome, then a few songs are sung, but only some of the verses. We don’t want to drag the service out. Then, maybe the preacher makes a few announcements and might ask for prayer requests. He says a prayer, hopefully remembering to mention the requests, then on to nap time…. I mean the sermon. There’s very little power of the Holy Spirit today, and the fire is dying. On that marvelous day, the Disciples couldn’t be quiet, and people thought they had been drinking. Peter heard the comments, stood up, and started feeding the lambs just as Jesus had admonished him to do. His words didn’t tickle ears but were to the point and called sin what it is, sin. He quoted Joel 2:28-32 explaining what was happening. Can you imagine how thrilling it was to finally understand the Scriptures they had routinely recited? Now those verses were alive! The power of the Holy Spirit is strong. Peter went on to point out that the listeners had crucified Christ. “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36). The people listening didn’t get mad and leave but were convicted and asked what they should do. “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Acts 2:38). What a day that must have been! People heard and were convicted and turned from their sin. Peter didn’t tickle ears or sugar-coat anything. “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (Acts 2:41). I wonder why Christianity seems to be dying. Maybe we need to fan the flame and get back to Scripture-based faith. I live in a small town where there is much sin among adults and young people. A few days ago, a group of people came to do a program of bicycle stunts and share the Gospel. Friends of mine were there helping, and hundreds of young people attended. When it was over, hundreds of young people went forward to accept Christ. I still get chills when I think of the blessing. Now, what? Will they go to sit in pews and watch old men nap during the sermon? Will they get the mentoring and encouragement they need to continue in one accord? “And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42). That’s what needs to happen. New believers need help to continue in God’s word. The flames need to be fanned, and instead of politically correct sermons, we need Biblically correct preachers to continue steadfast in the Apostle’s teaching. The only place to find that is in Scripture. Brothers and sisters, let’s fan the flame of the Holy Spirit. Don’t let the fire die. God bless you all, Nathele Graham [email protected] Recommended prophecy sites: www.raptureready.com www.prophecyupdate.com www.raptureforums.com All original scripture is “theopneustos,” God-breathed. If you would like to be on my mailing list to receive the commentaries, just drop me an email and let me know. “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee” (Psalm 122:6). Daily Jot: The American Chronicles: A Dog’s Eye View - Bill Wilson – www.dailyjot.com NOTE: From time to time, we get requests to write about our camping adventures from the eye-view of Service Dog Charlie. While, I can’t really speak for Charlie, the following Chronicle is an attempt to relay a part of Charlie’s life on the trail. In his own words… Whenever we are going somewhere, there is a great sense of anticipation. I can tell when Chris and Bill are up to something. They are moving stuff into the RV, making sure my bed is put under the table and my favorite toy, my stuffed lamb is there, too. I make sure I go with them at least to the door every time because I don’t want to be left behind. And no matter what, I want to be the first one in the RV, taking no chances. This time, I heard them say we are going to some place called the Shenandoah National Park. They were talking about going on a drive along the skyline and doing some hiking. I’m really not sure what all that means, but hey, I’m game just so long as I get to go. We stopped at what they call the Fox Hollow Trail Head. I sure hope there are foxes along this trail. This looks like an interesting place to go, but I don’t see a fox yet. C’mon guys let’s get on with this. Along down the trail, it came to a split. Now Chris and Bill are usually pretty fun when they are in “camping mode,” but sometimes they need a little help deciding which path to take. That’s where I come in—we are going this way. In the backwoods of the Shenandoah Valley, it’s hard to imagine that people actually lived here. But there are signs of civilization out in the middle of nowhere. We found a spring well and a small cemetery, one of more than 100 in the valley. Life was hard for humans. Even deeper in the wilderness there are signs of civilization lost. We came across this concrete frame with water in it. Heard Bill say something about it being “fed” by a nearby spring. All I really heard was “fed.” If someone’s getting fed on this hike, I want a piece of it. But that must not be what he meant, because we kept on walking and found the source of that well. I didn’t really want to cross over this running stream, but with a little coaching from Chris, I traversed it like the champ I am. I see my job as making sure Bill doesn’t stumble around on the trail. Last year, he had a bad fall coming out of a friend’s house. He says I pulled him down the brick steps. I think he was just clumsy—three stitches in the forehead clumsy. So now I kind of pick my way through the paths, just to not give him another excuse. Finally, the end of the trail. That was a pretty steep one on the way back. But speaking of champs—Chris and Bill put me up on this stump overlooking the valley. Kind of an Olympic triumph for me. I don’t know what that’s all about. I was just walking, well really dragging them along—you know they’re not as young as they used to be. And I was thirsty. We loaded up and went to a local coffee and ice cream shop. Got some water and a taste of a chocolate milkshake. Yum! Even met a new friend. All in all, it was a great day on the trail. I hear Chris and Bill talking about creation is so wonderful that people have no excuse to understand that there is a God. Even as a dog, I believe this, especially when I get to eat so many different types of food and see so many new places. It’s a big world out there. I wonder what’s next. Daily Devotion: Increased Persecution in the Last Days - by Greg Laurie – www.harvest.org Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because you are my followers. And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. —Matthew 24:9–10 https://harvest.org/resources/devotion/increased-persecution-in-the-last-days/ - Listen Jesus’ words in Matthew 24 were in response to a question His disciples asked in verse 3: “What sign will signal your return and the end of the world?” (NLT). Think they were sorry they asked? The disciples faced intense persecution for sharing Jesus’ message with the world. All but one of them, John, died a martyr’s death. But the persecution didn’t stop with them. And it didn’t end in the first century. Some scholars estimate that more Christians were killed in the twentieth century than in all previous centuries combined. Christians have been persecuted more than any other religious group. And it’s not just confined to atheistic or Islamic countries. We’re starting to see more and more persecution in the United States. We see it in the woke ideology that has infiltrated our education system. We see it permeating the military. We see it being spread by the media. I describe it as an “ABC culture”: Anything But Christ. When you stand up and say, “I’m a Christian,” you can expect pushback, resistance, and even persecution. Paul said, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12 NLT). That’s a promise of God we rarely claim. Yet Jesus said the closer we get to the time of His coming, the more His people will be persecuted. So how should we respond? First, remember that it’s not us people hate; it’s Jesus. And if people see Jesus when they look at us, it means we’re doing something right. Second, consider the times. Jesus said persecution will intensify as we draw closer and closer to the time of His return. If you notice an uptick in the mistreatment of believers, look up. Don’t get discouraged. Remind yourself that something amazing is on the way. Our suffering is temporary; our glorious reward for faithfulness is eternal. Third, pray for believers who are facing persecution. Ask God to give them the strength and endurance to persevere. Ask Him to help persecuted Christians remain faithful in their mission and not abandon their faith. Staying strong in the midst of persecution is one of the most powerful testimonies a Christian can offer. It says to unbelievers, “Here’s something worth suffering for. Here’s something more important than my life.” So as persecution increases in the last days, so do the opportunities to impact other people’s lives with our response. The challenge of Christians is to look beyond our own suffering and persecution to see the good that God is bringing from it in the lives of others. PROPHECY UPDATE NEWS HEADLINES Yesterday's Prophecies - Today's Headlines HEADLINES IN PARTNERSHIP WITH TRACKING BIBLE PROPHECY 10/11/24 http://trackingbibleprophecy.org/birthpangs.php
FROM THE HEART Let Us Make the Short Time We have Left, Count for ALL of Eternity! IF YOU HAVE BEEN BLESSED THROUGH THIS MINISTRY, THEN WE ASK THAT YOU WOULD PLEASE REMEMBER PROPHECY UPDATE IN YOUR GIVING - WE ARE TRULY, TRULY, THANKFUL FOR YOUR SUPPORT WORTHY OF YOUR SUPPORT? One of the most reliable ways to determine if a ministry is worthy of your financial support is to examine its fruits. If Prophecy Update is keeping you informed, and if that information inspires you, and causes you to draw closer to the Lord, if Prophecy Update equips you with valuable information and knowledge to share with and encourage other believers, and open the eyes of non-believers, and if Prophecy Update keeps you connected to current events relating to Bible Prophecy, then you are partaking of the fruit produced through this ministry. None of this would be possible without the Lords blessings and your support. I believe where the Lord guides, the Lord provides, and most of the time He provides through the willing and generous hearts of believers just like you and me. Humbly Seek Your Support Prophecy Update has no corporate sponsors. This ministry is paid for and prayed for by readers and supporters. Without your support, there would be no Prophecy Update, Please pray about becoming a monthly supporter - thanks! If ever there was a time to invest in God's Kingdom, it's now! What on earth are you doing for Heaven's Sake? "Share in the Blessings and Rewards that will last Forever!" "Folks, it's all beginning to unravel. America is in more danger of falling than at any time in its history. But I believe Bible prophecy predicts this very decline. From this point on, we believers have to get serious. We are going to face discouragement, disillusionment and, most certainly, persecution in the time between now and the Rapture. But don't be discouraged or disillusioned. The coming turmoil will provide us unrivaled opportunities to share the good news of the Gospel. So be ready to share your faith and your hope with those who need Christ. We still have time to reap a great harvest of souls for God's kingdom!" - Hal Lindsey 1) We need your prayers!- We proclaim the Truth of the Word of God and we are under constant spiritual and sometimes even physical attack. 2) We need your encouragement!- We need to hear from you, let us know how the Lord is blessing you through this ministry so that we can share it with others. 3) We need your input! - If you have a prophetic article or story or if there is a news related item we missed, let us know. 4) We need your financial support!- To put it quite simply, without your support, there would be no Prophecy Update. I ask that you would prayerfully consider partnering with us to get the Word out and keep the world informed. Remember, your gift, no matter how small, does make a difference! You will be helping to touch lives, around the world, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, thanks to the internet your generosity carries a global impact! - Thanks! Our Prayer for You- "Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else." 2 Corinthians 9:10-13 If you have been blessed by Prophecy Update and would like to help support this ministry financially. You can make a secure donation online by going to: DONATE NOW Or write us at: Prophecy Update P.O. Box 40516 Bakersfield, CA 93384-0516 We are very pleased to offer all our readers this FREE download on Bible Prophecy from the Evangelical Bible College of Western Australia - Just download and enjoy and be blessed! Feel free to share it with all your friends and family members. Click below to download! "AS YOU SEE THE DAY APPROACHING" If You Died Today, Would You Go To Heaven? Find out, visit: www.thegoodtest.net www.gotquestions.org www.wayofthemaster.com How to know God DID YOU KNOW? You can submit an article, leave a comment or praise report at email: [email protected] Maranatha! (Lord Come Quickly) "On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand, All other ground is sinking sand." "Let Us make the short time we have left count for all eternity!" YBIC-Randy
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Archives
February 2025
Categories |
Proudly powered by Weebly
This Site Was Updated By The Computer Group
|