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Prophecy Update: Wars and Rumors of Wars

6/17/2025

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Prophecy Update – Wars and Rumors of Wars— “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come” (Matthew 24:6).

Reports are swirling tonight that Iran may launch a major strike—possibly even involving nuclear weapons. While nothing is confirmed, the regime is clearly under pressure. A conventional missile barrage is far more likely, but if a nuclear device were used (perhaps purchased from Pakistan or another rogue state), the response from Israel and the U.S. would be overwhelming.

But this would not be the end of Iran.

Prophecy is clear: Iran (Persia) plays a key role in the coming Ezekiel 38–39 war. The regime may be wounded—but it will survive to fulfill its role.

We are witnessing the world align more and more with biblical prophecy. Keep your eyes on the Lord, not the headlines. “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
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Prophecy Update: Can It Get Any Worse than This?

6/14/2025

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PROPHECY UPDATE: Can it get any worse than this? Short answer—yes. And likely much sooner than most are willing to believe.

Today’s headline: In response to Israeli strikes on Iran’s military and nuclear sites, Iran launched missiles at Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, according to multiple reports (Breitbart). https://www.breitbart.com/.../iran-launches-missiles-at.../

This isn’t Ezekiel 38–39 yet, but it sure looks like the chessboard is being set. That ancient prophecy describes a future, overwhelming invasion of Israel by a Russian-Iranian-led coalition of Jew-hating nations. No nation comes to Israel’s aid. All seems lost—until God Himself steps in and supernaturally destroys the invaders.

As for the timing? Many scholars place this invasion after the Rapture but before the Tribulation (Daniel’s 70th Week). Could it happen before the Rapture? Or in conjunction with it? Only God knows.

But this much is clear: The pieces are moving. The world is not falling apart—it’s falling into place.
Be ready.
Believe the gospel.
Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day. (1 Corinthians 15:1–4) He’s coming again—soon.
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Prophecy Update: Israel Launches Surprise Attack on Iran's Nuclear Program!

6/12/2025

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No, this is not Ezekiel 38–39—yet.
But yes, it’s prophetically significant.

Once again, with all the directions events in the Middle East could go, they continue to move in the exact direction the Bible has already laid out. Nothing is off track. Everything is unfolding according to God’s sovereign plan.

Could this lead to Ezekiel 38–39? Possibly. Will it? Only time will tell. The most important question: Are you ready to meet Jesus face-to-face at any moment?

“You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him.” (Luke 12:40)

Stay alert. Stay grounded. Stay ready.
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Did I Meet an Angel Outside the Atlanta Airport?

6/9/2025

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“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.” (Hebrews 13:2)

I don’t usually give money to strangers. I’m not heartless—just cautious. You never really know what’s real and what’s not these days. But something happened outside the Atlanta airport in April that made me pause… and wonder.

I was sitting on a bench, waiting on a hotel shuttle, when a man sat down beside me. He looked like anyone else—a tired traveler, maybe a little worn down. We exchanged a few words. He told me he was trying to get somewhere, though the details were vague. There was no hard sell, no pleading. Just… a presence. And a prompting I couldn’t ignore.

I gave him $20.

And then, instantly—my shuttle pulled up. I stood, boarded, and turned to look back.

Gone.

No trace of him. No one walking away. No nearby corners or exits. He had vanished from a space with only one way in and out—and not enough time to take it. One second he was there, and the next… he wasn’t.

I’ve replayed that moment in my mind more than once. I still don’t know exactly what happened. But Hebrews 13:2 haunts me in the best way: “some have entertained angels without knowing it.”

The truth is, angels don’t need our money or directions. They don’t need us to help them get from point A to point B. But God sometimes wraps His purposes in ordinary moments. He tests our attentiveness. Our compassion. Our willingness to obey that gentle nudge.

I don’t know who that man was. But I know this: I was prompted to give—and I obeyed.

And maybe that was the whole point.

Final Thoughts

In a world obsessed with the spectacular, God still moves quietly. Sometimes it’s through the people we’d least expect in the moments we barely notice. But heaven is watching. When God nudges you, don’t hesitate. The moment may be more divine than you realize.


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Middle East Peace and the Antichrist: A Foreshadowing of Things to Come?

2/23/2025

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Lately, I’ve seen a lot of posts on Facebook and other places trying to link President Trump to either Hitler or the Antichrist. Frankly, I find this kind of rhetoric both amusing and absurd. The tendency to label every controversial leader as “the next Hitler” or “the Antichrist” has become a common, lazy accusation in political discourse. While I disagree
with much of the hysteria surrounding Trump, there is an interesting discussion to be had about how his presidency—and particularly his involvement in Middle East peace efforts—provides a glimpse into how things might play out when the real Antichrist steps onto the world stage.

The ongoing struggle in the Middle East—particularly between Israel and her adversaries—has long been a geopolitical puzzle that world leaders cannot resist trying to solve. The temptation to be the one who finally brokers lasting peace is simply too great. From Camp David to the Oslo Accords to the Abraham Accords, history is filled with attempts to bring stability to the region, yet none have endured This brings me to a thought I’ve had for some time: While President Trump is certainly NOT the Antichrist, his efforts in the Middle East serve as a fascinating example of how things might very well play out when the real Antichrist steps onto the world stage.

In Daniel 9:27, we read that the Antichrist will confirm a covenant with many, particularly Israel, for one week (seven years). This act will mark the beginning of what is often referred to as the Tribulation. Throughout history, leaders have sought to solve the Middle East conflict, but none have succeeded in establishing true, lasting peace. Trump’s Abraham Accords were a significant diplomatic achievement, normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations. However, they did not resolve the deeper Israeli-Palestinian tensions nor the broader conflicts with Iran and its proxies. Trump’s presidency demonstrated how a leader could rise with bold peace initiatives, strong nationalist backing, and global influence—traits that align with how the future Antichrist may come to power. But unlike past leaders, the Antichrist will not merely attempt peace; he will seemingly achieve it, at least for a time. His deal will be unlike any before it—deceptive in nature, setting the stage for betrayal and global tribulation.

While it’s important to avoid speculation about specific individuals, recent history provides insight into how easily people could rally behind a charismatic leader who promises to bring order to chaos. If the world is already so eager for someone who can broker peace in the Middle East, how much more will people embrace the one who finally seems to succeed? The book of Revelation and other prophetic Scriptures make it clear that the Antichrist’s rule will not end in peace, but in destruction. His so-called covenant with Israel will be broken, leading to the Great Tribulation (Matthew 24:15-21). The world may welcome him as a peacemaker, but in reality, he will be the ultimate deceiver. As we watch world events unfold, it is crucial to remain discerning and grounded in Scripture. The Bible warns that deception will be rampant in the last days, and those who do not have a biblical worldview may be easily swayed. Whether we are close to these events or still generations away, one thing remains true: Our hope is not in any political leader, but in Jesus Christ, the true Prince of Peace.

Trump’s time in office has given us a preview of how the political climate could shift toward fulfilling biblical prophecy. If anything, it has shown us how quickly events can escalate and how eager the world is for a leader who can bring solutions. But the true peace the world longs for will not come from human diplomacy. It will only come when Christ Himself returns and establishes His kingdom. Until then, we remain watchful, prayerful, and steadfast in our faith.

In the meantime, our focus is on actively sharing the gospel and living out the hope we have in Christ. We dedicate ourselves to proclaiming the good news, eagerly anticipating the resurrection of our dearly departed church-age believers and the transformation of those still living—a glorious event known as the great catching away, or the Rapture of the Church. This divine promise, set to occur sometime before the start of Daniel’s 70th week, fuels our mission and strengthens our resolve to be faithful witnesses in these challenging times.
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Going All in for Jesus: A Daily Struggle Worth Fighting

1/29/2025

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Have you ever wanted to go “all in” for Jesus—fully devoted, holding nothing back? If so, you’re not alone. Every true follower of Christ wrestles with the desire to live completely for Him while struggling against the pull of sin, distractions, and the demands of everyday life.

The tension is real. On one hand, we have a new nature in Christ that longs to follow Him completely (2 Corinthians 5:17). On the other, our old nature still tugs at us, making obedience a daily battle (Galatians 5:17). The Apostle Paul himself described this inner conflict:

“For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate.” (Romans 7:15)

If even Paul struggled, then we shouldn’t be surprised when we feel the same tension. But here’s the truth: following Jesus fully is possible—not because of our strength, but because of His grace and the power of the Holy Spirit.

1. Surrender Completely to Jesus – Every Day

The first step is total surrender. Jesus said: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23) Notice the word daily. It’s not a one-time decision; it’s a lifestyle. Some days, surrendering is easy—our hearts feel full of love for Jesus. Other days, our flesh fights back. We might resist His will because it’s uncomfortable, inconvenient, or costly. But here’s the key: every day, we must choose Jesus over ourselves. Even when it’s hard. Even when we don’t feel like it. Even when the world tells us to do otherwise. Practical step: Start your day with a prayer of surrender. Say, “Lord, not my will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42).

2. Pursue a Deep Relationship with God – Even When It’s Hard

If we’re honest, reading the Bible and spending time in prayer isn’t always easy. There are mornings when we’d rather sleep in or scroll through our phones. But if we truly want to go all in for Jesus, we need to prioritize our relationship with Him above all else. Jesus calls us to abide in Him: “Abide in me, and I in you… apart from me, you can do nothing.” (John 15:4-5) Some days, spending time with God will feel amazing. Other days, it will feel like a chore. But we don’t seek Him for the 'feelings'—we seek Him because He is worthy and because we desperately need Him. Practical step: Schedule time with God every day, just as you would with a close friend. Even if you don’t 'feel' anything, stay consistent.

3. Share the Gospel Boldly – Even When You’re Afraid

I’ll admit—there have been times I felt the Holy Spirit nudging me to share Jesus with someone, and I hesitated. Why? Because of fear. Fear of rejection, fear of saying the wrong thing, fear of looking foolish. But Jesus calls us to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). The gospel isn’t just good news—it’s the best news. And if we truly believe that, how can we keep it to ourselves? Yes, sharing our faith can be uncomfortable. But our love for Christ and for others should outweigh our fear. Practical step: Pray for boldness (Acts 4:29). Then, step out in faith and start small—share your testimony, invite someone to church, or simply start a conversation about Jesus.

4. Choose Holiness Over Comfort

Living for Jesus isn’t just about what we do—it’s also about what we avoid. In a world that celebrates sin, choosing holiness is hard. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). That means we reject sin, even when it’s tempting. We guard our minds, our words, and our actions. But here’s the struggle: sin still feels appealing at times. Our old nature fights against holiness. We might justify small compromises. We might think, 'Just this once.' This is why we need the Holy Spirit. On our own, we fail. But when we rely on His strength, He helps us live in a way that honors Christ (Galatians 5:16). Practical step: Ask God to reveal areas of compromise in your life. Then, take action to remove temptation.

5. Be Ready to Sacrifice – Even When It Costs You

Jesus made it clear: following Him comes at a cost. He said, “Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:27) For some, that cost is financial. For others, it’s giving up a dream, a relationship, or even personal safety. I once heard a pastor say, 'If your faith doesn’t cost you anything, you’re not doing it right.' That hit me hard. Am I willing to give up everything for Christ if He asks? Some days, my heart says, 'Yes!' Other days, I hesitate. That’s why we must keep our eyes on eternity. The sacrifices we make now pale in comparison to the glory of knowing Christ (Philippians 3:8). Practical step: Ask God what He’s calling you to surrender. Then, take a step of faith and obey.

6. Keep Going – Even When You Fail

Let’s be honest: we’re going to mess up. We’re going to have days where we fall short, where we struggle, where we feel distant from God. But failure isn’t final. Jesus didn’t choose perfect disciples—He chose people who would fail and get back up. Peter denied Jesus three times, yet Jesus restored him and used him mightily (John 21:15-19). The key to going all in isn’t never failing—it’s never giving up. Keep pursuing Jesus. Keep repenting. Keep pressing forward. Practical step: When you fail, don’t run from God—run to Him. Confess your sin, receive His grace, and start fresh.

Final Thought

Going all in for Jesus is a daily decision. It’s not always easy. In fact, it’s often a struggle. But it’s worth it. Jesus is worth it. The world will try to pull us away. Our flesh will resist. But if we keep our eyes on Christ, if we abide in Him, if we rely on His strength—we can live fully for Him, one day at a time. And one day, when we stand before Him, we’ll hear the words: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23).

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Renewing my Focus for 2025: Delight in Christ--A Journey of Joy and Fulfillment

1/20/2025

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We're already 20 days into 2025, and I’ve been reflecting deeply on what truly matters in my life and calling (Ps. 39:4). This year, I’m renewing my focus on four key goals that guide my personal and spiritual journey. These goals are not just aspirations but commitments that shape how I live, serve, and grow in Christ—at least that’s my hope and prayer!

In 2016, I survived a classic widow-maker heart attack, followed by bypass surgery—a life-altering event that shattered any illusions of invincibility I once held. That experience gave me a stark reminder of life’s brevity and the importance of running my race with purpose (James 4:14). Now, at 53, with heart disease and a family history where most of the men in my family have died in their early 70s, I feel as though I’m entering the final laps of my race. This perspective gives me both urgency and clarity. Whether the Rapture occurs soon or I exit this life through death, I want to finish strong—running hard, pouring out my life for Christ, and crossing the finish line with joy. These goals, which echo what I once described as "Treasure Christ ~ Live the Word ~ Make Disciples ~ Finish Well," serve as my roadmap for living with passion and purpose in 2025 and beyond.

1. Delight in Christ – Finding my deepest joy and satisfaction in Him.
2. Embody Scripture – Living out God’s Word in every area of life.
3. Cultivate Disciples – Sharing the gospel and equipping others to grow in their faith.
4. Persevere to the End – Remaining faithful to Christ no matter the challenges.

Each of these goals is anchored in my desire to glorify God and grow in His grace. For the next several weeks, I’m focusing on what it means to truly Delight in Christ. Psalm 37:4 says, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” This verse invites us to center our joy in Him, trust His promises, and experience the transformation that comes from knowing Him deeply. I challenge you to join me in this journey.

What does it mean to delight in Christ? To delight in the Lord is to find your deepest joy and satisfaction in Him. It’s a posture of the heart that values His presence above all else. It means:
  1. Knowing Who He Is: Delighting in the Lord begins with understanding His character—His love, grace, mercy, and holiness. The more we know Him, the more we find reasons to rejoice in Him (Jer. 9:23-24).
  2. Trusting His Promises: Psalm 37 is a psalm of trust, calling us to rest in God's faithfulness and commit our ways to Him. Delighting in the Lord means surrendering our anxieties and choosing to trust His plans for our lives.
  3. Pursuing Intimacy with Him: Delighting in the Lord isn’t passive. It involves active steps like prayer, worship, and meditating on His Word. As we draw near to Him, our hearts are filled with His peace and joy (Ps. 16:11).
Psalm 37:4 includes a profound promise: when we delight in the Lord, He gives us the desires of our hearts. At first glance, this might sound like God will grant us anything we want—but the reality is far deeper and more beautiful. When we delight in Christ, something amazing happens:
  • Our Desires Align with His Will: As we focus on Him, our hearts are transformed. We begin to want what He wants—things that are good, holy, and eternal (Phil. 2:13).
  • We Experience True Fulfillment: Instead of striving for temporary satisfaction, we find lasting joy in His presence. He becomes our greatest treasure, and everything else pales in comparison (Matt. 13:44).
  • We Learn Contentment: Delighting in the Lord helps us see that He is enough. Even when life doesn’t go as planned, His grace and love sustain us (2 Cor. 12:9).
When our hearts align with Christ, delighting in Him becomes a natural response to His love and grace. This divine exchange transforms not only our desires but also the way we live, moving us from self-centered pursuits to a God-centered joy. However, this doesn’t happen by accident—it requires intentionality. Delighting in the Lord involves practical steps that nurture our relationship with Him and position us to experience His transforming power in our daily lives. By making Him the focus of our hearts and minds, we begin to see His beauty and goodness in every area of life. Here’s how you can cultivate this delight and walk more closely with Christ:
  1. Start Each Day with Gratitude: Reflect on God’s goodness in your life. Thank Him for who He is and what He has done. Gratitude cultivates joy (1 Thess. 5:16-18).
  2. Spend Time in His Word: Psalm 119:103 says, “How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” The Bible reveals God’s heart and helps us delight in Him.
  3. Pray with Expectation: Share your heart with God and trust Him with your needs. Prayer deepens your relationship with Him and reminds you of His faithfulness (1 John 5:14-15).
  4. Celebrate His Creation: Take time to notice the beauty around you—sunrises, birdsong, or the kindness of a friend. All of these point back to the Creator who delights in you (Ps. 19:1).
  5. Join a Community of Believers: Worshiping and growing alongside others can spark joy and remind you of God’s goodness (Heb. 10:24-25).

Delighting in Christ is not just a momentary feeling—it’s a lifestyle. It’s about reorienting our hearts to treasure Him above all else. When we do, we discover the truth of Psalm 37:4: He doesn’t just give us what we want; He becomes what we want.

Take time to reflect on where you find your joy. Are you chasing temporary pleasures, or are you rooted in the eternal delight of knowing Christ? Choose to delight in Him today, and let the desires of your heart be shaped by His perfect love and wisdom.


What are some ways you delight in Christ? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s encourage one another to find joy in Him this week!

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Assad's Syrian Regime Falls--Another Cog in the Wheel En Route to Daniel's 70th Week

12/8/2024

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Recent events in the Middle East, particularly in Syria, have captured global attention. On December 8, 2024, Syrian opposition forces achieved significant victories against the regime of Bashar al-Assad, culminating in the fall of Damascus. This marked the end of the Assad dynasty, which began with Hafez al-Assad’s rise to power in 1971.

These developments have sparked considerable interest among those who study biblical prophecy, myself included, raising questions about their potential implications. However, it is essential to approach such events with caution and avoid drawing premature conclusions based solely on current headlines. While we see only the present moment, God views all of history—past, present, and future—within the scope of His divine plan. Although we cannot predict the exact details of what lies ahead, we trust in the certainty of God’s purposes and the ultimate fulfillment of His timeline. These events may represent another step toward the prophetic culmination described in Scripture, such as Daniel’s Seventieth Week. As history unfolds, it serves as a reminder of God’s perfect timing, even when His plans remain unclear to us.

The fall of Bashar al-Assad could hold potential significance in relation to biblical prophecy, particularly concerning the end times. While the Bible does not specifically mention Assad or the modern state of Syria, it frequently references Syria, known in ancient times as Aram, and its capital, Damascus. Syria’s historical and prophetic roles in Scripture often intertwine with Israel’s story—sometimes as an adversary and at other times as a witness to God’s sovereignty. Damascus, in particular, is the focus of several key prophecies, including Isaiah 17:1, which foretells its ultimate destruction, leaving it “a heap of ruins.”

These biblical references highlight Syria’s enduring significance, encouraging believers to remain discerning and rooted in Scripture as we observe unfolding events. Trusting in God’s word and His ultimate plan for the nations should guide our understanding of these developments. The following passages and themes offer insights that may shed light on these recent events:

1. Isaiah 17: The Destruction of Damascus (as previously noted)

Isaiah 17:1 proclaims:

“See, Damascus will no longer be a city but will become a heap of ruins.”

As one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Damascus holds both historical and prophetic significance. Some interpret this prophecy as an event yet to occur, potentially tied to the end times. The fall of Assad and the subsequent chaos in Syria could set the stage for this prophecy’s fulfillment, should Damascus face destruction in the context of broader regional conflict.

2. Ezekiel 38–39: The Invasion of Gog and Magog

Ezekiel 38–39 describes an alliance of nations led by “Gog of Magog” that invades Israel. Modern interpretations often associate this coalition with nations like Russia, Iran, and other Middle Eastern powers. Syria’s instability and the fall of Assad could create a power vacuum that allows these alliances to form more concretely, particularly as nations like Iran and Russia expand their influence in the region.

3. Matthew 24 and Luke 21: Wars and Rumors of Wars

Jesus warned of wars and conflicts as signs of the last days in Matthew 24:6-7 and Luke 21:10-11. The prolonged Syrian civil war and its aftermath, including further regional instability, could align with this pattern of escalating conflicts.

4. Syria’s Impact on Israel’s Security

Syria’s proximity to Israel makes its stability—or lack thereof—of particular concern in biblical prophecy. The fall of Assad could lead to greater threats to Israel’s security, as terrorist groups or hostile nations might exploit the instability, heightening the likelihood of conflicts involving Israel as described in various prophecies.

5. Psalm 83: The Surrounding Nations

Psalm 83 is often interpreted as a prophecy concerning a future coalition of nations against Israel, which could include Syria. The current turmoil could facilitate conditions for such a coalition to emerge.

6. Global Unrest and the “Birth Pains”

Jesus described increasing global turmoil as “birth pains” in Matthew 24:8. While some view these as precursors to end-time events, others believe they specifically unfold during Daniel’s Seventieth Week. Regardless, the instability in Syria could be seen as part of a broader pattern of unrest foreshadowing the tribulation. That said, I personally believe the birth pains of Matthew 24 specifically occur during Daniel's Seventieth Week, often referred to as the Great Tribulation. While we may see foreshadowing or precursors to these events in our time, the full unfolding of these signs aligns with the tribulation period described in Scripture. With all this in mind, here are some key Considerations in Understanding Prophecy and Modern Events:

1. Prophetic Timing: Prophecies often unfold over time, with layers of fulfillment. While the fall of Assad may align with prophetic themes, its full significance may not be immediately apparent.

2. Complex Patterns: Biblical prophecies weave together historical, spiritual, and eschatological elements, requiring careful interpretation to avoid oversimplification.

3. Avoiding Speculation: It is vital to approach these events with humility, recognizing that not all geopolitical developments are directly tied to prophecy. Speculation can lead to unnecessary fear or misinterpretation.

The potential fall of Assad could contribute to shifts in the Middle East that align with biblical prophecy, such as the destruction of Damascus or the formation of end-time alliances. However, God’s timeline operates beyond human comprehension and may not unfold in a linear or immediate way. As believers, our response should be one of watchfulness, prayer, and trust in God’s ultimate plan.

Finally, consider this: Could these geopolitical changes set the stage for the fulfillment of prophecies like Isaiah 17? It seems plausible! But the greater question is whether you are ready for Christ’s return. If you have not yet trusted in Jesus as your Savior, now is the time. He promises, “Whoever comes to me I will never cast out” (John 6:37). Turn to Him today, place your faith in the Gospel, and rest in the hope of His imminent return. The time is now!
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Libya: A Part of Ezekiel's Prophecy

8/29/2023

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As I mentioned in today's Prophecy Update, things are continuing to take shape in the Middle East related to Ezekiel's prophecy of an end-time coalition of nations that will come against Israel in the last days. Click on the file below to read the article by Ed Hindson I mentioned in the update. God bless!
ez38_39.pdf
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In Christ

8/11/2023

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"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ" (Ephesians 1:3). Ask the average Christian what it means to be saved and you'll likely get some variation of ask Jesus into your heart or receive Jesus into your life. As acceptable as these descriptions of salvation have become in modern Christian circles they are actually foreign to Scripture. The writers of the New Testament had little if anything to say about asking Jesus into your heart or receiving Him into your life.

There is one phrase, however, some variation of which appears approximately 135 times in the New Testament (some theologians suggest it appears upwards to 200 times) and that is in Christ. Other variations of this phrase include, In Him, in the Beloved, and in the heavenly places. To give a better idea of how often this phrase is used, consider the fact that in Christ appears approximately 93 times in the New Testament, 46 times in the book of Ephesians alone. In Him appears approximately 41 times while in the Beloved appears one time. The writings of the Apostle Paul are rich in using some variation of in Christ.

The New Testament writers teach us that as believers, we are in Christ. Whenever we think about salvation and what it means to be saved we often think in terms of something we did--"I asked Jesus to come into my heart," or "I received Jesus into my life." To be saved, however, means to be in Christ. It means that God has placed me into Christ. This understanding expresses the spiritual union with Jesus we enjoy as a result of our salvation. It means we are united with Christ and that this union identifies us with Christ. This understanding is one reason I prefer the first-century descriptive term Christian over the modern phrase Christ follower. But we'll save that discussion for another time.

What does it mean to be in Christ? Beginning in Paul's letter to the Ephesians we discover our union with Christ began in eternity past with the Father's plan. Since God's plan to save us began before He brought the universe into existence, it speaks to the fact our being in Christ is not an afterthought nor is it God moving from Plan A to Plan B. Our salvation by grace through faith has been God's Plan A all along! God the Father has "blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ" (Eph. 1:3). In fact, "He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world" (Eph. 1:4), going so far as to have "predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself" (Eph. 1:5). All of this, He says, is "to the praise of the glory of His grace" (Eph. 1:6). Our union with Christ, therefore, began in eternity past with God's past election.

Past election, however, is incomplete without present redemption. To be in Christ means we have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus. Paul writes, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace" (Eph. 1:7). In fact, the Bible teaches one of the many meanings of being in Christ is that we have died with Him (Gal. 2:20) and we have been raised with Him (Eph. 2:5-6). To be in Christ, therefore, means my present identity is one of being just that--in Christ. When God the Father looks at us He no longer sees a dirty, filthy, wicked, and unholy sinner. He sees the holiness and righteousness of Christ because my sins have been transferred onto Christ (at the Cross) and Christ's righteousness has been transferred to me. All of this, according to the Apostle Paul, is "to the praise of His glory" (Eph. 1:12).

Both past election and present redemption guarantee a third reality for those who are in Christ. God's Word promises for us a future inheritance. "In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation--having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God's own possession" (Eph. 1:13-14). The Holy Spirit--God's Spirit--comes to indwell and seal all those who are in Christ. According to pastor and theologian John MacArthur, this seal signifies security, authenticity, ownership, and authority. The Holy Spirit is given as a pledge of the believer's future inheritance in glory. In Christ, "we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will" (Eph. 1:11). Our inheritance, then, is both a present and future reality--right now but not yet. This is amazing to think about. Whatever Christ is heir of we are, too. Why? Because we are in Christ. And just like the Father's choice in past election and the Son's work in present redemption, our future inheritance, guaranteed by the indwelling Holy Spirit is, "to the praise of His glory" (Eph. 1:14).  The ultimate purpose for our having been saved and placed in Christ is the glory of God. If that is God's ultimate purpose then perhaps that ought to be my ultimate purpose, too--to live and die in such a way so as to bring glory to God.

When it comes to these matters theologians have debated for centuries how all these things work out in the Christian life. Some have emphasized God's sovereign election while others have emphasized our personal responsibility. Regardless of where one might land on these matters we must understand that salvation is, in a sense, a mystery. We don't fully understand how God's sovereign election and a person's responsibility to believe meet. But this much we do know--God has provided for our salvation through the finished work of redemption. All of this was accomplished in Christ. Our responsibility is to hear and believe the gospel. When that happens, we are saved and "sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise" (Eph. 1:13). Have you believed the gospel--the good news that Jesus lived the perfect life you could never live and died for your sins and rose from the dead three days later? If you have not, why not take a few moments right now to place your faith and trust in Christ and His finished work of redemption. The moment you believe, God will place you in Christ--a union that will last for all eternity!

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