by BrianRegrut | Aug 15, 2018 | End Times, Rapture
WOW what a timely question. To set the stage for answering this question, let us first review the Bible’s End Time events and then see if and how this move of the Embassy may tie in. We will need to have a two part answer to properly respond due to the complexity of the considerations. So Part 2 will be posted next week. You won’t want to miss it.
We are now in the Church Age period and many Bible scholars say the next event for those who have trusted in Jesus is what is termed The Rapture. Jesus comes down from Heaven in the air and takes all the dead believers and the living believers up with Him. (See our 11-20-17 posting for more details on the Rapture event)
The nation of Israel signs a peace treaty with a person called The Antichrist. Israel relies on the treaty with the expectation of a world peace. This begins what is called the Seven Year Tribulation Period and although the effects of the rule of the Antichrist are worldwide, Israel is the center-point at this time. (See Epicenter by Joel Rosenberg)
After three and one half years into the Tribulation, the true nature of the Antichrist is revealed and he, along with a false Holy Spirit and Satan, attempts to destroy the nation of Israel. It is during this second half of the tribulation period when catastrophic and devastating events occur worldwide. This is God’s wrath poured out on unbelieving nations.
A remnant of Jews escape Israel and at the end of the seven years Jesus returns with believers and defeats the Antichrist and his cohorts in a final battle, Armageddon.
Following this Period, Jesus rules with His people on earth for 1000 years, a time known as the Millennial Reign. The Bible also suggests that at that time King David, the king of Judah who reigned 1,000 years before Jesus, will return as regent to rule over Israel. (Ezekiel 37:24) These will be exciting times. Stay tuned.
by BrianRegrut | Aug 8, 2018 | Guide for Living, Holy Spirit, Hope, Trust
Discovery questions like this one suggest that an adventure lies ahead. Indeed, discovering God’s plan for one’s life is the greatest journey a person can ever undertake. It is often revealed in phases over one’s lifetime as a Christian matures in their faith. Finding your purpose in life and living it with a passion is God’s intent for everyone. Then and only then will you be able to honor God with your life and your work or calling and enjoy his presence now and forever. So where do we start the search for God’s plan which was actually in place before you were born. That in itself is an amazing truth. (Ephesians 2:10)
It seems therefore that we should go first to the source, the Bible, God’s inspired Word, to discover the plan. In Jeremiah 29:11 for example we find, “for I know the plans I have for you, plans for your welfare and not for evil to give you a future and a hope.” So from this verse we know with certainty that God has a plan for each believer in Jesus. Jesus said, “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you want and it will be done for you.” In other words, in searching for God’s plan one needs to diligently explore the Scriptures to become aware of God’s promises and their special calling from Jesus and one needs to abide in Jesus and follow His calling. Jesus wants you to become a disciple that makes disciples in whatever profession you are given. You are to become a partner in building God’s kingdom. Church Pastors, Christian guidance counselors and Christian friends can help you in your search.
To fully realize ‘the plan’ as a Christian you must live the Christian values of love, sympathy, compassion, humility, honesty and moral integrity. The apostle Peter said it well in chapter 3 verses eight and nine. His parting words were,” Finally, all of you be of one mind, sympathetic, loving toward one another, humble, and compassionate. Do not return evil for evil or insult for insult, but on the contrary a blessing because to this you were called that you might inherit a blessing.” The blessing is a life filled with meaning, with purpose and joy and an assurance of eternity in Heaven!
Therefore, in order to discover and live God’s plan one needs to read the Scriptures, pray, abide in Jesus, listen to the Holy Spirit, obey the Commandments, and finally become mature disciples of Jesus that share the gospel message of redemption and hope with everyone God brings into your path. God’s plan is for everyone to become more like Jesus.
by BrianRegrut | Aug 1, 2018 | Death, Hell
Some religions suggest that evil is just an illusion. That it is a condition of the mortal mind. Others have said it is a result of ignorance and superstitions and if you don’t think about it evil will go away.
Our life experiences argue otherwise. We lock our cars and houses. We have security systems. We have laws against murder, rape, child abduction, lying under oath, etc. Yes evil is real.
It came about when Adam and Eve used their gift of free will to disobey God. There was only one commandment and they chose not to keep it. At that moment the human race and the earth began to experience the opposite of God’s goodness, evil.
Evil is the absence of God. We see it expressed in pain, suffering, discord, war and death. The ‘good news’ is that God reigns and one day evil will be overthrown. All those who put their trust in him will live eternally where there is no pain, no suffering and no death.
Photo copyright: verkoka / 123RF Stock Photo
