I have been following current events as they relate to biblical prophecy for well over 20 years now. I can recall what it was like, back in the early days of following these events. We had a general sense that we were in the last days of this generation, based on several large milestones, such as the miraculous formation of Israel in 1948. Back then, we also had several other signs that were consistent with the prophetic scriptures, as they pertained to the last generation:
- A generation known for dramatic increases in the ability to travel, and ability to acquire knowledge (Daniel 12:4)
- A generation known for its ability to make war, including weapons of mass destruction and the capability to create war on a
world-wide basis. (Matthew 24:6-7)
- A generation who would suddenly "open" and understand the prophetic scriptures as intended for the last generation
(Daniel 12:9; Revelation 1:3)
- A generation who would observe Jerusalem change from an insignificant, basically uninhabited area, into a city which
would become the focus of peace plans in the Middle-East; a city that would be the central issue in terms of solving
the overall conflict in the Middle-East (Zechariah 12:2-3)
- A generation who would observe earthquakes in "diverse areas", and increasing over the earth - like birth pains
(Matthew 24:7)
- A generation who would witness a "revival" of the ancient Roman Empire; something painfully and obviously clear from
watching the rise and the dramatic and rapid growth of the European Union (Daniel 2)
- A generation who would witness the formation of "peace-plans" attempted between Israel and her neighbors, setting
the stage for the Antichrist to arrive and "confirm" the deal (Daniel 9:27)
These are just a few of the completed prophecies which told us that we were in the final generation, as described by Jesus Himself, and the prophets Daniel and Zechariah.
We also watched for signs that informed us that the last seven-year period, known as the Tribulation, was approaching:
- The technology to implement the global financial system, known as the "Mark of the Beast", which would require everyone
on earth to have a "Mark" on the hand or forehead, which will be required for ANY financial transaction - required to be
able to buy or sell anything. It also will serve as a visible indicator that the individual has pledged worship of the
Antichrist. Applied Digital Solutions now has this technology, and we have the satellite capability to complete this
prophecy (Revelation 13:16-17)
- The ability of the world to witness, in "real-time", the "Two Witnesses", as described in Revelation 11, who "witness" to the
entire world, and the ability for the whole world to watch these great prophets from God - being put to death, and then,
witness their miraculous resurrection (Revelation 11:3-10)
- The ability of the "Kings of the East" ("east" meaning anything east of the Euphrates River) to form a 200 million-man
army (Revelation 9:14-16)
- An increase in "pestilences", a sign that would indicate that infectious disease and inability to fight these diseases (aka
"antibiotic resistence") on a world-wide basis
And on and on it goes. These earlier signs told prophecy watchers that we were clearly living in the "last generation". Most of the signs given were present and accounted for. But lately, we have seen new and unexpected signs - signs that frankly, I didn't think we would see on this side of the Rapture of the Church. Signs that really didn't have to occur UNTIL the Tribulation (note: by no means am I saying that we are in the Tribulation now!):
- The "global financial crisis"; which over the last 4-5 weeks has become "The Story" internationally. Shockingly, just over this
period of time, serious discussions regarding the need for a "global financial system", with "global oversight" are taking
place. Serious discussions relating to the necessity for a "global currency" are now taking place. Now, we are in the early
stages of a "global governance" over this financial system (which sounds ominously like the early stages of a "global
government"). Such ideas were scoffed at previously, but not in today's world.
- The urgency to finalize a "peace-plan" in the Middle-East, between Israel and her neighbors. President-elect Obama has
indicated his committment to this. Currently, all discussions center on the previous "Oslo Peace Accords", which,
interestingly, was "signed" yet it was never "confirmed" due to the subsequent violence in the region. The current plans
center on the ability to "confirm" these plans - presumably by sending in "peace-keeping" troops into Israel, and proposed
by the EU (aka "revived Roman Empire"). Daniel gave us this exact scenario in Daniel 9:27).
- Iran achieving the capability to manufacture nuclear weapons. The alliance between Russia and Iran, which was precisely
described in Ezekiel 38-39 - including their all-consuming hatred against Israel. We also watch the growth of this alliance
to include enemies of Israel - as they surround this tiny country.
- The world seeking a leader who can appear to solve these various world-wide problems - including the economic collapse
and the ongoing conflict in the Middle-East.
Its amazing to watch these events come together as they have. It gives us reassurance that God's prophecy is 100% accurate - and that God is completely in control, according to His plan. It gives us reassurance and hope while watching these ominous events taking place. It gives nervous anticipation over what is coming next. It gives us strength in the face of an uncertian world around us. It gives us strength in the face of persecution. It gives us assurance that the remaining events WILL OCCUR exactly as God described.
Jeremiah spent years telling the Nation of Israel that the Babylonians would come from the north and destroy Jerusalem - begging them to repent before it was too late. They didn't listen, and predictably, the Babylonians came from the north and destroyed Jerusalem - taking captive the young men and women of Israel. Exactly as Jeremiah predicted. A typical response to biblical prophecy.
Daniel 12 concludes and summarizes the vast array of prophecy that Daniel had been given. And it is there, that we find a small little verse that rarely receives attention. During this "summary" of the prophecy given to Daniel, we see the following (parenthetical statements mine):
"Many will be purified and made spotless and refined (only obtained throuh salvation), but the wicked will continue to be wicked. None of the wicked will understand (a reference to the "scoffers" - also described by the Apostle Peter: 2 Peter 3)
BUT THOSE WHO ARE WISE WILL UNDERSTAND" (Daniel 12:10)
Only the "wise" will understand. Even though a massive amount of biblical prophecy points to the clear fact that we are in the "last generation" (the generation that would be awaiting the Second Coming of Jesus Christ), only a small part of the Church recognizes this fact. Just as described to the great prophet Daniel. Perhaps that explains the next scripture - this time given by the apostle Paul:
"Now this is in store for me, the crown of Righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will reward to me on that day - and not only me, BUT ALSO ALL WHO HAVE LONGED FOR HIS APPEARING". (2 Timothy 4:8).
Thats how Jesus sees prophecy watching. It reveals our deep love for Him and our deep, almost painful need to be with Him. In His very presence. Wow - just imagine that day - the day that we get to actually be with Jesus. Its mind-blowing to consider, that soon, it WILL happen. We will have "one on one" time with Jesus - our Lord and Savior. The one who willingly took incredible punishment, beatings, humiliation, whippings, and ultimately, death on the cross. We will fall at His feet and thank Him for all that He did. What a glorious moment that will be!
We watch prophetic developments because of that one central fact: Prophecy tells us that we will be in the very presence of Jesus - soon. Perhaps thats why we are "rewarded" for maintaining interest and excitement when we watch these signs. Only a deep love for Jesus dictates a desire to constantly watch these prophetic developments - because these developments reveal the nearness of Christ's return. Excitement and anticipation grows, as we see events lining up exactly as foretold.
Its coming soon. Every prophetic development that we observe - screams confirmation of this undeniable fact. Just as Jeremiah's prophecies were fulfilled, so will these "end times" prophetic scriptures reach fulfillment. Its an exciting time to be a follower of Christ, because we know what awaits us.
Lets be counted as "those who are wise" - those who understand the age in which we live. The age that will see complete fulfillment of all remaining prophecy. The age that will see Jesus, personally.
I believe this day is coming very soon. As a bride prepares for a wedding, lets prepare to meet Jesus. Its time. Jesus is making the final preparations, and as He informed His disciples:
"In my Father's house there are many mansions. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me - that you also may be where I am".
Thats the bottom line. That we can be where Jesus is.
Maranatha! Our Lord Comes! Are you ready?
Sabtu, 22 November 2008
Selasa, 11 November 2008
Globalization and the rise of the Antichrist
The book of Revelation gives us great detail regarding the last 7 year period on earth, known as the Tribulation - which concludes with the Second Coming of Jesus. We have watched world events lining up in preparation for this period; events which perfectly align with the prophetic scriptures detailed in chapters 6-18 of Revelation.
The 13th chapter of Revelation gives considerable detail regarding the Antichrist and his "partner-in-crime", the False Prophet. This revealing chapter describes the "authority" that the Antichrist will have over "every tribe, people, language and nation". In other words, the entire earth. This chapter goes on to describe the fact that the Antichrist will also control the world's financial system (as administered by the False Prophet), and he will do so by implementing the "Mark of the Beast" - which is a "mark" which will be required to be inserted on the hand or forehead. This "mark" will be necessary for ALL financial transactions. In other words, if you don't have this "mark", then you cannot buy or sell anything.
"He also forced everyone...to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark..." (Revelation 13:16-17). We've previously detailed how the technology now exists which could fulfill these prophetic scriptures. Digital Angel now has the GPS/RFID implantable microchips which can be inserted into the hand or forehead, and contains the capability to handle financial transactions, global tracking and health related information on every person. This technology is a perfect fit and could easily be implemented as a way to control all financial transactions.
The current economic crisis, which has involved almost every nation on earth, has led to an alarming call by the industrialized nations to create a "global economy". The European Union, is now calling for Global Financial Reform, and will present their plans during an upcoming economic meeting with other major countries on November 15.
At the same time, we now hear a constant drumbeat - which calls for a one-world currency as part of the overall solution to the world's financial crisis. Originally envisioned for 2024, we now see an even more urgent call for a single, global currency - something that is now being discussed as an immediate solution, rather than a long term solution.
Ecommerce Times has produced a summary detailing the necessity for this global currency, as a solution to the current crisis. Its highly probable that discussions held during the November 15 meeting will include the implementation of such a world-currency.
Global financial system. Global currency. Global financial leadership.
These are words that I didn't expect to see on this side of the Rapture. I have always assumed that these discussions would not begin until the Tribulation. Yet, in only a brief 4-6 week period, we have witnessed the world going from a stable financial system which seemed foolproof - develop into an acute "world crisis". Additionally, we now watch world leaders engaged in serious discussions regarding a single, world currency and a global financial system - as solutions to our financial crisis.
All of this had to happen for the Antichrist to ultimately control the world's economy. The world will witness a leader emerge from the European Union (aka "revived Roman Empire") who will seize control of the world's financial system. But for this to happen, there has to be a "world financial system" and a single "world currency". The fact that we are seeing these things developing now is fascinating from a prophetic perspective.
The world is headed rapidly towards the Tribulation. Everything that we see happening in the world today makes that point abundantly clear.
What a difference a few weeks makes.
Its a brave new world - a world which will be very favorable for the rise of a global figure - one who will appear to have the answers for all of the world's problems. A figure who will confirm a peace plan in the Middle-East. A figure who will appear to solve the financial problems of the world. Unfortunately, the bible tells us that his "success" will be brief. Just as the world believes that the Antichrist has finally solved their problems, and when the world is saying "peace and safety", the bible tells us that "destruction will come on them suddenly" (1 Thessalonians 5:1-3). The Tribulation will begin with the Antichrist confirming a peace plan between Israel and her neighbors (Daniel 9:27). But after this, the Tribulation ("destruction") will begin "suddenly".
We do have good news though. The "gathering up" of the Church, also known as the Rapture - will occur before any of this. Jesus stated in Revelation 3:10 "I will keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world."
The apostle Paul confirmed the prophecy made by Jesus. I'll let the apostle Paul close this commentary with his very words - words which inform us of our fate:
"Jesus - who rescues us from the coming wrath". That says it all. We won't be here to see the Antichrist and his reign of terror. We have a date - with Jesus - in Heaven. And this date appears to be coming very soon.
Maranatha!
The 13th chapter of Revelation gives considerable detail regarding the Antichrist and his "partner-in-crime", the False Prophet. This revealing chapter describes the "authority" that the Antichrist will have over "every tribe, people, language and nation". In other words, the entire earth. This chapter goes on to describe the fact that the Antichrist will also control the world's financial system (as administered by the False Prophet), and he will do so by implementing the "Mark of the Beast" - which is a "mark" which will be required to be inserted on the hand or forehead. This "mark" will be necessary for ALL financial transactions. In other words, if you don't have this "mark", then you cannot buy or sell anything.
"He also forced everyone...to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark..." (Revelation 13:16-17). We've previously detailed how the technology now exists which could fulfill these prophetic scriptures. Digital Angel now has the GPS/RFID implantable microchips which can be inserted into the hand or forehead, and contains the capability to handle financial transactions, global tracking and health related information on every person. This technology is a perfect fit and could easily be implemented as a way to control all financial transactions.
The current economic crisis, which has involved almost every nation on earth, has led to an alarming call by the industrialized nations to create a "global economy". The European Union, is now calling for Global Financial Reform, and will present their plans during an upcoming economic meeting with other major countries on November 15.
At the same time, we now hear a constant drumbeat - which calls for a one-world currency as part of the overall solution to the world's financial crisis. Originally envisioned for 2024, we now see an even more urgent call for a single, global currency - something that is now being discussed as an immediate solution, rather than a long term solution.
Ecommerce Times has produced a summary detailing the necessity for this global currency, as a solution to the current crisis. Its highly probable that discussions held during the November 15 meeting will include the implementation of such a world-currency.
Global financial system. Global currency. Global financial leadership.
These are words that I didn't expect to see on this side of the Rapture. I have always assumed that these discussions would not begin until the Tribulation. Yet, in only a brief 4-6 week period, we have witnessed the world going from a stable financial system which seemed foolproof - develop into an acute "world crisis". Additionally, we now watch world leaders engaged in serious discussions regarding a single, world currency and a global financial system - as solutions to our financial crisis.
All of this had to happen for the Antichrist to ultimately control the world's economy. The world will witness a leader emerge from the European Union (aka "revived Roman Empire") who will seize control of the world's financial system. But for this to happen, there has to be a "world financial system" and a single "world currency". The fact that we are seeing these things developing now is fascinating from a prophetic perspective.
The world is headed rapidly towards the Tribulation. Everything that we see happening in the world today makes that point abundantly clear.
What a difference a few weeks makes.
Its a brave new world - a world which will be very favorable for the rise of a global figure - one who will appear to have the answers for all of the world's problems. A figure who will confirm a peace plan in the Middle-East. A figure who will appear to solve the financial problems of the world. Unfortunately, the bible tells us that his "success" will be brief. Just as the world believes that the Antichrist has finally solved their problems, and when the world is saying "peace and safety", the bible tells us that "destruction will come on them suddenly" (1 Thessalonians 5:1-3). The Tribulation will begin with the Antichrist confirming a peace plan between Israel and her neighbors (Daniel 9:27). But after this, the Tribulation ("destruction") will begin "suddenly".
We do have good news though. The "gathering up" of the Church, also known as the Rapture - will occur before any of this. Jesus stated in Revelation 3:10 "I will keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world."
The apostle Paul confirmed the prophecy made by Jesus. I'll let the apostle Paul close this commentary with his very words - words which inform us of our fate:
"Jesus - who rescues us from the coming wrath". That says it all. We won't be here to see the Antichrist and his reign of terror. We have a date - with Jesus - in Heaven. And this date appears to be coming very soon.
Maranatha!
Minggu, 09 November 2008
A commentary worth reading
Occasionally I run across a commentary that I read and think "I couldn't have written this better myself".
My good friend and fellow prophecy watcher Mike Mickey has posted a very interesting commentary regarding current events, including the U.S. elections. This can be found on his site "RaptureAlert.com". First, let me make very clear: I'm not a democrat, nor am I a republican. In other words, I don't have a horse in this race. I watch elections strictly for the purpose of analyzing the prophetic implications. Period.
The following commentary was recently written by Mike, and as stated, I couldn't have said it better myself:
Barack Obama, The EU and Bible Prophecy
by Michael G. Mickey
(11-7-08)
Since the election of Barack Obama to the office of president of the United States and somewhat even before, there have been a whirlwind of developments taking place of interest to those of us following current events in the world pointing to the soon-coming return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In this commentary, I would like to share with you a few of these events, along with links to various articles you can read that will make it clear to you that, although many of us are upset that a man we feel is going to lead our nation further down a path that takes it out of God's will, there is a reason for all things and God is still in control.
A Beast Looking For Teeth
In Bible prophecy, the rising of a revived Roman empire is foretold that will ultimately become what most of us today refer to as a new world order.
In Daniel 7:23, we get a glimpse of this Beast empire the Antichrist to come will wield power over and see it will be an aggressive alliance of global powers:
Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces.
Quietly, this Beast empire has been rising for decades in the form of the European Union which presently consists of 27 member nations.
Recently, with the newly-formed 16-member Mediterranean Union being brought into the fold, the European Union, for all practical purposes, is now 43 member nations strong. (To view three maps of the old Roman empire, the European Union and, lastly, the European Union combined with the Mediterranean Union, click HERE and see how dramatically the Roman empire of the days of Christ has been reborn, for all practical purposes, in our world today.)
On a number of occasions, each time noting that the European Union is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium where the most powerful military force in the world (NATO) also calls home (no coincidence in my opinion), I've brought to my readers' attention that the revived Roman empire is considering the benefit of having its own military, something for us to bear in mind in light of Daniel 7:23's prophecy, in spite of the fact I question its necessity to exist on any grand scale for Bible prophecy to move forward now due to NATO's existence and availability to the EU.
Along these lines, however, on October 27, 2008, the EU Observer reported that the United Kingdom's Defense Minister favors the creation of a European Union military along with French president Nicolas Sarkozy who "had hoped to place EU defense architecture at the heart of his country's EU chairmanship until his best-laid plans were overtaken by the global financial crisis."
The potential of a European Union army rising capable of operating outside of NATO remains an issue of prophetic interest at the very least so bear in mind I'll be keeping an eye on that topic and reporting on it periodically if the Lord wills it.
A Greater Role for the EU?
On the very day of the U.S. elections, something I've told my readers to watch for to occur for years was physically requested by the European Union, namely the EU being given a more influential role in the world to include "more engagement with a resurgent Russia and more emphasis on peacemaking in Afghanistan and the Middle East."
How many times, those of you who have followed along with me through the years, have I told you we should watch for a turn of events to occur that would place the revived Roman empire of Bible prophecy in a posture to potentially resolve the troublesome issue of Middle East peace? I have to tell you, brothers and sisters in Christ, that I got chills and am right now as I type these words to you. Why? Because the EU Observer report that details this request on the part of the EU states the following, in part (emphasis added mine to stress the relation to Bible prophecy):
The letter urges the new US administration to put the Middle East peace process at the top of its agenda and foresees a "useful role" for the EU as co-guarantors of a future Israeli-Palestinian accord.
The European Union as co-guarantors of a future Israeli-Palestinian accord? This language reads as though it was ripped from the pages of Bible prophecy! Let me explain.
In Daniel 9:26-27, we're told that a prince (or leader) of Roman descent is going to confirm (or make strong) a covenant of peace in the Middle East that will be seven years in duration. This leader, the prophesied Antichrist, will go on to head the new world order and will immediately, by confirming this covenant, begin the seven-year Tribulation Period, the culmination of which will be the battle of Armageddon, a sequence of events highlighted by the visible, physical, bodily return of Jesus Christ and the armies of heaven to the earth after which Christ will set up His kingdom on the earth!
Praise God, there is HOPE for us too, Church! CHANGE is coming and not just because Barack Obama has been elected president of the United States of America, contrary to what many believe!
Barack Obama elected president of the United States
As everyone who has read my website at all knows, I have been less than enthused by the prospect of a Left-leaning Democratic party-led president and Congress having control of our nation at a dangerous time in our nation's history like this, but could it put Bible prophecy on the fast track to fulfillment? Absolutely. And why? Because, quite frankly, I believe that Barack Obama, true to his word, is going to be very interested in repairing what the Left believes to be a George W. Bush-shattered image of the U.S. around the globe. The European Union has made a request of president-elect Obama and he will, in my opinion, if for no other reason than to stick one more fork in President Bush's foreign policy, grant it .
Demonstrative of how receptive our world is becoming to practically worshipping a man as though he were god, even a man who has done absolutely nothing like Barack Obama to merit such worship, people around the globe are giving us a glimpse into how nuts mankind is going to go over the prophesied Antichrist when his advent occurs. Below are a few excerpts from an Associated Press article for your consideration that illustrate this (emphasis added mine):
• This is the fall of the Berlin Wall times ten," Rama Yade, France's black junior minister for human rights, told French radio. "America is rebecoming a New World. "On this morning, we all want to be American so we can take a bite of this dream unfolding before our eyes," she said.
• "What an inspiration. He is the first truly global U.S. president the world has ever had," said Pracha Kanjananont, a 29-year-old Thai sitting at a Starbuck's in Bangkok. "He had an Asian childhood, African parentage and has a Middle Eastern name. He is a truly global president."
As EUBusiness.com is reporting, the European Union is openly rejoicing that Obama has won the presidency. In my opinion this is because the EU's leadership sees Obama as someone they'll be able to get to roll their way on most everything which I concur with. The following is an excerpt from that article:
"This is a time for a renewed commitment between Europe and the United States of America," Barroso said in a statement. "We need to change the current crisis into a new opportunity. We need a new deal for a new world."
"I sincerely hope that with the leadership of President Obama, the United States of America will join forces with Europe to drive this new deal. For the benefit of our societies, for the benefit of the world," he said.
Make no mistake about it, the pathway to a new world order coming into existence just became a lot less rocky to obtain, as if I even need to state that to the majority of my readership.
If a new deal is needed for a new world (order), Barack Obama will be the first to sign off on it as would any president chosen from among the cast members of the loony Left, all of whom I pray will have mercy on me and not send me to a re-education camp now that their evil empire is almost in place. (A little humor interjected there, folks. Sorry, but I couldn't resist. But seriously, Obama Truth Squad dudes, you don't have to fear me. Most people think I'm a nut just like you do so I'm not a threat to you or your plans. I'm just hanging out, watching the fireworks with the religious right - my Bible in one hand and a cup of hot coffee in the other.)
In related news, concerning the new deal the EU is looking for, EUBusiness.com is reporting that "Obama's US election victory has revived European hopes for deep reform of the global financial system."
Recently, I documented that the EU is presently pushing for a new world order and that vice president-elect Joe Biden indicated he and Obama have accepted the realities of a new world order so I expect the EU has little, if anything, to hope for. My guess is the EU can fully expect the Obama administration to go along with most anything the Europeans want on that front which, once again, will only serve to advance the fulfillment of Bible prophecy. Perhaps, the EU's leaders already realize this based on some of the language found in an EU Observer article.
A "former trade official in the Clinton administration and a consultant on foreign affairs and emerging markets", David J. Rothkopf stated recently, "President Obama will play a bigger role in re-inventing the international system than any other president before in past decades." No surprise here where that is concerned. I wholly agree.
Conclusions
The last few days have been for many in the evangelical community, myself included, pretty anxious in relation to what an Obama presidency may mean for our nation, our constitutional rights, and our standing in the world.
Not surprisingly, I have been overwhelmed with e-mail asking me everything from whether I think Barack Obama is the prophesied Antichrist to whether we've entered the Tribulation Period, neither of which I believe to be true for any number of reasons.
Suffice to say I am where a lot of my brothers and sisters in Christ are right now - a bit concerned, dismayed, frustrated and, admittedly, a little angry with those of us who overlooked the Word of God's teachings and voted for the candidate most likely to lead this nation down the path to destruction and the Body of Christ into persecution. But, even in the midst of all this confusion and hurt, I can see, more and more clearly by the hour it seems, that all of this is part of God's plan, not that I ever really doubted it per se, but I'm seeing it!
While I wholly believe that John McCain wouldn't have been a perfect president by any means, I think he would've held back the darkness that I sense is coming upon our nation and the world to some extent. The old maverick would've put his foot on the brakes now and then, in my opinion, but it looks like God has a different plan - a better one as hard as that is for us to see right now.
I once heard Dr. Charles Stanley preach a sermon wherein he explained that God always hears our prayers and answers them in one of three ways.
1 God answers our prayers with a "yes" and gives us what we want.
2 God answers our prayers with a "yes, but later" response because what we want is something He is willing to give us but there's something else He has in mind for us right now He knows is more important for us to learn or experience.
3 God answers our prayers with a "no, I have something better in mind" response. This is the one we struggle with most as we only hear the "no." From our perspective we can't see past God failing to give us what we want. We often can't envision any scenario wherein He has something better in mind for us than what we wanted but we can be sure He always does. Is it not written that "all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose?" (Romans 8:28)
This is a time for us to do our very best to look beyond our circumstances and perceptions and simply trust the Lord that everything is going to be okay.
Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Even though president-elect Obama isn't, in all likelihood, going to be a president who will value our contributions to this nation or love us enough to stand with us in protecting the unborn, fighting off the homosexual agenda and pledging our unyielding dedication to the nation of Israel regardless of what any power on earth thinks of it, three things he could do to bring remarkable blessings to our land that would benefit him as well as us, we need to pray for him, his family, and his administration.
We should pray for the salvation of president-elect Obama and his administration above all, but also for them to be wise in deciding the course our nation will take in the next four years. Additionally, just in case their hearts are too cold or stubborn to do what is right for our common good, we should pray that God Himself will honor our wishes that His will be done and, if necessary, supernaturally set up roadblocks that only He can that will prevent Him from having to judge our nation harshly that the vital work of those of us who still believe in His Word and are trying to honor it can continue in His service here without fear until He comes for us, if that is His will.
Hang in there, brothers and sisters! A happy ending is coming as well as tremendous reward if we faint not in these troublesome times that vex our souls! Everything is proceeding according to God's plan and THAT is something no power on earth, whether by means of an election or by the edge of a sword, can change!
Our redemption draweth nigh!
Until next time, God bless you all
My good friend and fellow prophecy watcher Mike Mickey has posted a very interesting commentary regarding current events, including the U.S. elections. This can be found on his site "RaptureAlert.com". First, let me make very clear: I'm not a democrat, nor am I a republican. In other words, I don't have a horse in this race. I watch elections strictly for the purpose of analyzing the prophetic implications. Period.
The following commentary was recently written by Mike, and as stated, I couldn't have said it better myself:
Barack Obama, The EU and Bible Prophecy
by Michael G. Mickey
(11-7-08)
Since the election of Barack Obama to the office of president of the United States and somewhat even before, there have been a whirlwind of developments taking place of interest to those of us following current events in the world pointing to the soon-coming return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In this commentary, I would like to share with you a few of these events, along with links to various articles you can read that will make it clear to you that, although many of us are upset that a man we feel is going to lead our nation further down a path that takes it out of God's will, there is a reason for all things and God is still in control.
A Beast Looking For Teeth
In Bible prophecy, the rising of a revived Roman empire is foretold that will ultimately become what most of us today refer to as a new world order.
In Daniel 7:23, we get a glimpse of this Beast empire the Antichrist to come will wield power over and see it will be an aggressive alliance of global powers:
Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces.
Quietly, this Beast empire has been rising for decades in the form of the European Union which presently consists of 27 member nations.
Recently, with the newly-formed 16-member Mediterranean Union being brought into the fold, the European Union, for all practical purposes, is now 43 member nations strong. (To view three maps of the old Roman empire, the European Union and, lastly, the European Union combined with the Mediterranean Union, click HERE and see how dramatically the Roman empire of the days of Christ has been reborn, for all practical purposes, in our world today.)
On a number of occasions, each time noting that the European Union is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium where the most powerful military force in the world (NATO) also calls home (no coincidence in my opinion), I've brought to my readers' attention that the revived Roman empire is considering the benefit of having its own military, something for us to bear in mind in light of Daniel 7:23's prophecy, in spite of the fact I question its necessity to exist on any grand scale for Bible prophecy to move forward now due to NATO's existence and availability to the EU.
Along these lines, however, on October 27, 2008, the EU Observer reported that the United Kingdom's Defense Minister favors the creation of a European Union military along with French president Nicolas Sarkozy who "had hoped to place EU defense architecture at the heart of his country's EU chairmanship until his best-laid plans were overtaken by the global financial crisis."
The potential of a European Union army rising capable of operating outside of NATO remains an issue of prophetic interest at the very least so bear in mind I'll be keeping an eye on that topic and reporting on it periodically if the Lord wills it.
A Greater Role for the EU?
On the very day of the U.S. elections, something I've told my readers to watch for to occur for years was physically requested by the European Union, namely the EU being given a more influential role in the world to include "more engagement with a resurgent Russia and more emphasis on peacemaking in Afghanistan and the Middle East."
How many times, those of you who have followed along with me through the years, have I told you we should watch for a turn of events to occur that would place the revived Roman empire of Bible prophecy in a posture to potentially resolve the troublesome issue of Middle East peace? I have to tell you, brothers and sisters in Christ, that I got chills and am right now as I type these words to you. Why? Because the EU Observer report that details this request on the part of the EU states the following, in part (emphasis added mine to stress the relation to Bible prophecy):
The letter urges the new US administration to put the Middle East peace process at the top of its agenda and foresees a "useful role" for the EU as co-guarantors of a future Israeli-Palestinian accord.
The European Union as co-guarantors of a future Israeli-Palestinian accord? This language reads as though it was ripped from the pages of Bible prophecy! Let me explain.
In Daniel 9:26-27, we're told that a prince (or leader) of Roman descent is going to confirm (or make strong) a covenant of peace in the Middle East that will be seven years in duration. This leader, the prophesied Antichrist, will go on to head the new world order and will immediately, by confirming this covenant, begin the seven-year Tribulation Period, the culmination of which will be the battle of Armageddon, a sequence of events highlighted by the visible, physical, bodily return of Jesus Christ and the armies of heaven to the earth after which Christ will set up His kingdom on the earth!
Praise God, there is HOPE for us too, Church! CHANGE is coming and not just because Barack Obama has been elected president of the United States of America, contrary to what many believe!
Barack Obama elected president of the United States
As everyone who has read my website at all knows, I have been less than enthused by the prospect of a Left-leaning Democratic party-led president and Congress having control of our nation at a dangerous time in our nation's history like this, but could it put Bible prophecy on the fast track to fulfillment? Absolutely. And why? Because, quite frankly, I believe that Barack Obama, true to his word, is going to be very interested in repairing what the Left believes to be a George W. Bush-shattered image of the U.S. around the globe. The European Union has made a request of president-elect Obama and he will, in my opinion, if for no other reason than to stick one more fork in President Bush's foreign policy, grant it .
Demonstrative of how receptive our world is becoming to practically worshipping a man as though he were god, even a man who has done absolutely nothing like Barack Obama to merit such worship, people around the globe are giving us a glimpse into how nuts mankind is going to go over the prophesied Antichrist when his advent occurs. Below are a few excerpts from an Associated Press article for your consideration that illustrate this (emphasis added mine):
• This is the fall of the Berlin Wall times ten," Rama Yade, France's black junior minister for human rights, told French radio. "America is rebecoming a New World. "On this morning, we all want to be American so we can take a bite of this dream unfolding before our eyes," she said.
• "What an inspiration. He is the first truly global U.S. president the world has ever had," said Pracha Kanjananont, a 29-year-old Thai sitting at a Starbuck's in Bangkok. "He had an Asian childhood, African parentage and has a Middle Eastern name. He is a truly global president."
As EUBusiness.com is reporting, the European Union is openly rejoicing that Obama has won the presidency. In my opinion this is because the EU's leadership sees Obama as someone they'll be able to get to roll their way on most everything which I concur with. The following is an excerpt from that article:
"This is a time for a renewed commitment between Europe and the United States of America," Barroso said in a statement. "We need to change the current crisis into a new opportunity. We need a new deal for a new world."
"I sincerely hope that with the leadership of President Obama, the United States of America will join forces with Europe to drive this new deal. For the benefit of our societies, for the benefit of the world," he said.
Make no mistake about it, the pathway to a new world order coming into existence just became a lot less rocky to obtain, as if I even need to state that to the majority of my readership.
If a new deal is needed for a new world (order), Barack Obama will be the first to sign off on it as would any president chosen from among the cast members of the loony Left, all of whom I pray will have mercy on me and not send me to a re-education camp now that their evil empire is almost in place. (A little humor interjected there, folks. Sorry, but I couldn't resist. But seriously, Obama Truth Squad dudes, you don't have to fear me. Most people think I'm a nut just like you do so I'm not a threat to you or your plans. I'm just hanging out, watching the fireworks with the religious right - my Bible in one hand and a cup of hot coffee in the other.)
In related news, concerning the new deal the EU is looking for, EUBusiness.com is reporting that "Obama's US election victory has revived European hopes for deep reform of the global financial system."
Recently, I documented that the EU is presently pushing for a new world order and that vice president-elect Joe Biden indicated he and Obama have accepted the realities of a new world order so I expect the EU has little, if anything, to hope for. My guess is the EU can fully expect the Obama administration to go along with most anything the Europeans want on that front which, once again, will only serve to advance the fulfillment of Bible prophecy. Perhaps, the EU's leaders already realize this based on some of the language found in an EU Observer article.
A "former trade official in the Clinton administration and a consultant on foreign affairs and emerging markets", David J. Rothkopf stated recently, "President Obama will play a bigger role in re-inventing the international system than any other president before in past decades." No surprise here where that is concerned. I wholly agree.
Conclusions
The last few days have been for many in the evangelical community, myself included, pretty anxious in relation to what an Obama presidency may mean for our nation, our constitutional rights, and our standing in the world.
Not surprisingly, I have been overwhelmed with e-mail asking me everything from whether I think Barack Obama is the prophesied Antichrist to whether we've entered the Tribulation Period, neither of which I believe to be true for any number of reasons.
Suffice to say I am where a lot of my brothers and sisters in Christ are right now - a bit concerned, dismayed, frustrated and, admittedly, a little angry with those of us who overlooked the Word of God's teachings and voted for the candidate most likely to lead this nation down the path to destruction and the Body of Christ into persecution. But, even in the midst of all this confusion and hurt, I can see, more and more clearly by the hour it seems, that all of this is part of God's plan, not that I ever really doubted it per se, but I'm seeing it!
While I wholly believe that John McCain wouldn't have been a perfect president by any means, I think he would've held back the darkness that I sense is coming upon our nation and the world to some extent. The old maverick would've put his foot on the brakes now and then, in my opinion, but it looks like God has a different plan - a better one as hard as that is for us to see right now.
I once heard Dr. Charles Stanley preach a sermon wherein he explained that God always hears our prayers and answers them in one of three ways.
1 God answers our prayers with a "yes" and gives us what we want.
2 God answers our prayers with a "yes, but later" response because what we want is something He is willing to give us but there's something else He has in mind for us right now He knows is more important for us to learn or experience.
3 God answers our prayers with a "no, I have something better in mind" response. This is the one we struggle with most as we only hear the "no." From our perspective we can't see past God failing to give us what we want. We often can't envision any scenario wherein He has something better in mind for us than what we wanted but we can be sure He always does. Is it not written that "all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose?" (Romans 8:28)
This is a time for us to do our very best to look beyond our circumstances and perceptions and simply trust the Lord that everything is going to be okay.
Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Even though president-elect Obama isn't, in all likelihood, going to be a president who will value our contributions to this nation or love us enough to stand with us in protecting the unborn, fighting off the homosexual agenda and pledging our unyielding dedication to the nation of Israel regardless of what any power on earth thinks of it, three things he could do to bring remarkable blessings to our land that would benefit him as well as us, we need to pray for him, his family, and his administration.
We should pray for the salvation of president-elect Obama and his administration above all, but also for them to be wise in deciding the course our nation will take in the next four years. Additionally, just in case their hearts are too cold or stubborn to do what is right for our common good, we should pray that God Himself will honor our wishes that His will be done and, if necessary, supernaturally set up roadblocks that only He can that will prevent Him from having to judge our nation harshly that the vital work of those of us who still believe in His Word and are trying to honor it can continue in His service here without fear until He comes for us, if that is His will.
Hang in there, brothers and sisters! A happy ending is coming as well as tremendous reward if we faint not in these troublesome times that vex our souls! Everything is proceeding according to God's plan and THAT is something no power on earth, whether by means of an election or by the edge of a sword, can change!
Our redemption draweth nigh!
Until next time, God bless you all
Jumat, 07 November 2008
Blogger Indonesia of the Week (87): PMF
BLOGGER INDONESIA OF THE WEEK (87)
Beberapa waktu yang lalu saya menerima pesan elektronik mengenai hasil review dari salah satu “Bapak Blogger” Indonesia, A. Fatih Syuhud, terhadap Blawg saya yang berbahasa Inggris. Dalam tulisan singkatnya menyimpulkan bahwa saya berhak menyandang masuk dalam daftar lanjutan "Blogger Indonesia of the Week" yang ke-87.Saya sendiri tidak dapat berkomentar banyak terhadap penilaian tersebut, karena saya menyadari dan menilai bahwa masih banyak rekan-rekan Blogger Indonesia yang seyogyanya lebih pantas mendapatkan apresiasi tersebut. Namun demikian, tetap wajib hukumnya bagi saya untuk mengucapkan untaian tulus rasa terima kasih kepadanya, karena secara tidak langsung Cak Fatih turut pula membangkitkan kembali ‘gairah’ menulis saya di dalam Blawg ini yang sempat surut.
Setidaknya, saya pun akhirnya menjadi tersadarkan bahwa pengunjung blog khusus hukum ini ternyata bukan hanya inklusif dari komunitas hukum saja, namun juga berasal dari berbagai latar belakang program pendidikan, baik yang memang disengaja berkunjung maupun yang kebetulan ‘mampir ‘ menjenguk blog ini.
Tentunya apresiasi yang dialamatkan kepada saya ini harus pula membawa perubahan yang berarti bagi saya, khususnya dalam “melayani” para pembaca untuk senantiasa memperoleh bahan bacaan yang lebih berisi, bermanfaat, ringan dan mudah dipahami oleh semua pihak.
Berikut ulasan yang disampaikan oleh A. Fatih Syuhud atas penganugerahan “Blogger of the Week (BOW)" terhadap Blawg saya. Semoga dapat juga menjadi bahan inspirasi bagi kita semua.
Salam Hangat dari München (Jerman),
Pan Mohamad Faiz
***
Blogger Indonesia of the Week (87): Pan Mohamad Faiz
Pan Mohamad Faiz is a visionary blogger and a man-of-principle personality, so to speak. He knows what he wants to do. When the first time I met him in my last-year stay in India in 2007 he asked me how to make a blog.
At the same time he insisted that he wanted to have a niche blog on law, his specialty, not a personal blog. He knows that a niche blog will not get a good traffic instantly but he is sure it will create faithful readers and, thus credibility to the blogger concerned. He wants his blog to emphasize on specific quality content. I couldn’t agree more with him.
Many new bloggers just want to make a blog with instant high traffic and many comments–like old timers. The absence of which will make them discouraged and then quit blogging. That’s why we saw many “drop-out” bloggers every now and then.
Faiz, as I used to call him, is the kind of blogger who care less to traffic of his blog or to the amount of comments he receives. He focuses more on how to write a good content vigorously. He doesn’t expect many comments nor many visitors, though he’ll be grateful if any. These are the keys for any blogger to survive and endure a long blogging experience without which you’ll find your blogging passion dissipates in a short span of time.
The Content
To know Faiz’s blog content is simple. Read his profile, and you’d immediately know what it is all about:
So, it’s clear that Faiz’s niche blog is about law. Both Indonesia and international law. This is what he wants to achieve: whenever you want to know about law, visit his blog. And whenever you want to talk about it, talk to Faiz. This is the advantage of having a niche blog and of being a “niche” blogger. []Pan Mohamad Faiz was born in Jakarta, Indonesia. After getting his Bachelor of Law (LL.B.) degree from Faculty of Law, University of Indonesia, he received a Full Scholarship from ICCR to continue his advance study at Faculty of Law, University of Delhi. On July 2008, he successfully graduated from University of Delhi (First Division Rank) with degree in Master of Comparative Laws (M.C.L.) specializing on Comparative Constitutional Law.
Presently he is a legal and constitutional law observer as well as an active op-ed writer in many National Newspapers and Journals. Moreover, he is appointed as a Judicial Administrative Assistance to Constitutional Justice at Constitutional Court of Indonesia. This Blawg (Law Blog) describes his strong thought about Law and other Social Sciences.
Rabu, 05 November 2008
The Elections and Prophecy
As I mentioned in a post several weeks ago, I watch the elections strictly through the lens of biblical prophecy. This wasn't always the case, but I believe we are now approaching the very final hours of this last generation - as we head towards the Tribulation described in Revelation 6-18.
The primary question that I have about an Obama presidency, is how the new administration will handle our relationship with Israel. I have closely followed both the campaign rhetoric and president-elect Obama's associations, in order to get a view of how he will handle Israel. The main question is, will an Obama administration support Israel or will his administration turn away from supporting Israel.
The reason for watching this closely is the following:
We know from Zechariah 12:1-3 that in the last days (either just preceeding the Tribulation or during the Tribulation) "all nations on earth" will be gathered against Israel. All nations. We also read in this passage that all nations who attempt to "move" or divide Jerusalem will "injure themselves". There are no exclusions in this scripture.
We can also read from Genesis, where God made an unconditional and premanent declaration: "I will bless those who bless you (Israel) and whoever curses you (Israel) I will curse." (Genesis 12:3).
Over the past few years, the only country who has consistently supported Israel is the United States. I previously assumed that the United States support of Israel would stop following the Rapture of the Church, for obvious reasons. However, by closely following the news and watching president-elect Obama's associations, it appears highly doubtful that his administration will support Israel. A summary of the new administration's probable stance towards Israel has been published in the American Thinker
By Amercia pulling away from Israel and discontinuing support for Israel, we will see one more end times "domino" fall. By the United States pulling away from supporting Israel we will see Zechariah's prophecy fulfilled. All nations will indeed be gathered together - only they will be "gathered against" Israel.
I will be watching the new administration closely in the coming days, but as the saying goes "actions speak louder than words". Forget the rhetoric. The campaign is over. Lets watch the new administration's actions towards Israel - that will be the key factor in an Obama administration - at least from a prophetic perspective.
At the same time, we watch Israel closely. They will have general elections in early Feburary, which will put a new leader in office. The prophetic implications of that are enormous, and will certianly have a significant role to play in prophecy.
Its an exciting time to watch these prophetic developments taking place, as we draw closer and closer to the conclusion of this age. Just remember - God is in complete control and His plan for mankind will be completed, just as foretold in the Bible.
This plan includes the gathering up of the Church, as described in 1 Thessalonians 4 and 1 Corinthians 15.
As Jesus said, keep looking up - our redemption draws near !
Maranatha!
The primary question that I have about an Obama presidency, is how the new administration will handle our relationship with Israel. I have closely followed both the campaign rhetoric and president-elect Obama's associations, in order to get a view of how he will handle Israel. The main question is, will an Obama administration support Israel or will his administration turn away from supporting Israel.
The reason for watching this closely is the following:
We know from Zechariah 12:1-3 that in the last days (either just preceeding the Tribulation or during the Tribulation) "all nations on earth" will be gathered against Israel. All nations. We also read in this passage that all nations who attempt to "move" or divide Jerusalem will "injure themselves". There are no exclusions in this scripture.
We can also read from Genesis, where God made an unconditional and premanent declaration: "I will bless those who bless you (Israel) and whoever curses you (Israel) I will curse." (Genesis 12:3).
Over the past few years, the only country who has consistently supported Israel is the United States. I previously assumed that the United States support of Israel would stop following the Rapture of the Church, for obvious reasons. However, by closely following the news and watching president-elect Obama's associations, it appears highly doubtful that his administration will support Israel. A summary of the new administration's probable stance towards Israel has been published in the American Thinker
By Amercia pulling away from Israel and discontinuing support for Israel, we will see one more end times "domino" fall. By the United States pulling away from supporting Israel we will see Zechariah's prophecy fulfilled. All nations will indeed be gathered together - only they will be "gathered against" Israel.
I will be watching the new administration closely in the coming days, but as the saying goes "actions speak louder than words". Forget the rhetoric. The campaign is over. Lets watch the new administration's actions towards Israel - that will be the key factor in an Obama administration - at least from a prophetic perspective.
At the same time, we watch Israel closely. They will have general elections in early Feburary, which will put a new leader in office. The prophetic implications of that are enormous, and will certianly have a significant role to play in prophecy.
Its an exciting time to watch these prophetic developments taking place, as we draw closer and closer to the conclusion of this age. Just remember - God is in complete control and His plan for mankind will be completed, just as foretold in the Bible.
This plan includes the gathering up of the Church, as described in 1 Thessalonians 4 and 1 Corinthians 15.
As Jesus said, keep looking up - our redemption draws near !
Maranatha!
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