Preparations for War?

It looks like we are seeing preparations being made for war (again) in the Middle-East. First, we see the primary alliance of "Gog-MaGog", namely Iran and Russia, engaged in war preparations.

The Jerusalem Post is reporting "Russia, Iran to hold naval maneuver", which will be held in the Caspian Sea. A revealing quote comes from this article:

"In April Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov explained that Iran is "our neighbor, it's a country which can play a very important role in solving a number of acute international issues, such as the situation in Afganistan, Iraq and different aspects of Mideast peace settlement." All I can say is, "Has Mr. Lavrov been reading the book of Ezekiel?"

Also, for the first time in approximately two years, after the last battle on Israel's northern border, where the terrorist group Hizbullah operates and controls the countryside, we see troop movement and tanks relocating close to the border with Lebanon:

"Tension, Tank Movements and Jet Sorties on Northern Border"

"Report: Lebanese, IDF forces deploy along border"

This build-up, along the northern border is exactly what preceeded the battles two summers ago. I also recall when the fighting started on the border, fighting between Hizbullah and the IDF, fighting had been taking place for almost two weeks before the mainstream-media picked up on the story. Fortunately, biblical prophecy watchers were on the story as soon as it began; I expect the same this summer (assuming fighting does indeed take place).

This is worth watching simply because the Middle-East is a powder-keg, just waiting to be ignited. Sooner or later the fighting will evolve in the epic battle, as led by a biblical figure called "Gog", which we believe is the leader of Russia. Watching this build-up and the alliances consolidating is fascinating. Now we see joint exercises planned, between Russia and Iran....As revealed by God's prophet Ezekiel.

It seems that fighting always breaks out in the summer months. We shall see.

Kolom Opini: "Quo Vadis Putusan MA?"

QUO VADIS PUTUSAN MA?
Oleh: Pan Mohamad Faiz*

Sumber: Opini Seputar Indonesia, 30 Juli 2009

Atmosfer politik Indonesia akhir-akhir ini memanas. Dua gugatan terhadap Keputusan KPU tentang Penetapan Hasil Rekapitulasi Pilpres telah dilayangkan oleh pasangan calon presiden dan calon wakil presiden ke Mahkamah Konstitusi (MK).

Mereka menengarai hasil penghitungan KPU tidak sah karena terlalu banyak pelanggaran dan kesalahan selama proses pemilihan presiden, baik secara prosedural maupun substansial. Sementara itu, minggu sebelumnya dunia perpolitikan kita lebih dahulu dikejutkan oleh keluarnya putusan Mahkamah Agung (MA) Nomor 15 P/HUM/2009 bertanggal 18 Juni 2009.

MA memutuskan tidak sah dan tidak berlaku untuk umum Pasal 22 huruf c dan Pasal 23 ayat (1) dan (3) Peraturan KPU No 15/2009 terkait cara penghitungan tahap kedua untuk kursi DPR. Memang dalam putusan tersebut MA tidak mengutak-atik perolehan kursi partai politik yang berhak duduk di Senayan, namun secara tidak langsung dipastikan akan memengaruhi perolehan kursi dari banyak partai politik papan menengah.

Implikasinya,menurut CETRO, 66 kursi di DPR RI diperkirakan akan beralih partai! (Seputar Indonesia, 28/7). Karena putusan MA tersebut sangat berdampak pada konfigurasi politik nasional untuk lima tahun ke depan, tak ayal sensitivitas politiknya pun sangat tinggi. Akibatnya, ingar-bingar dan kemelut antara pihak yang diuntungkan dan dirugikan atas putusan tersebut kontan menghiasi berbagai media cetak dan elektronik.

Sayangnya, respons yang keluar dalam menanggapi putusan tersebut justru lebih banyak berhulu pada respons politik, bukan berangkat melalui respons hukum. Sejatinya,suatu produk hukum dan pengadilan harus pula ditanggapi dengan kajian yuridis, bukan justru dihadapkan sekadar dengan analisis dan bumbu politis.

KPU pun kian menjadi sorotan tajam dan berada pada posisi yang dilematis serta terjepit dalam kondisi ini. Di satu sisi KPU wajib menjalankan putusan tersebut, di sisi lain apabila melaksanakan putusan tersebut dapat mengakibatkan guncangnya sendi-sendi sistem politik dan pemilu yang bermuara pada keterpilihan kursi yang telah ditetapkan sebelumnya.

Titik Lemah Putusan

Putusan MA memang sudah dibacakan, namun ruang untuk mengkritiknya dalam koridor hukum tetaplah terbuka lebar. Tetap dengan menghormatinya, paling sedikit terdapat empat titik kelemahan krusial dalam putusan tersebut.

Pertama, permohonan sejenis untuk pengujian materi Pasal 23 ayat (1) Peraturan KPU No. 15/2009 sebenarnya pernah diajukan dan diputus pada 2 Juni 2009 dengan amar putusan menolak permohonan untuk pemohon Hasto Kristyanto dan tidak dapat diterima untuk pemohon A Eddy Susetyo (vide Putusan Nomor 12 P/HUM/2009).

Atas substansi permohonan yang sama dengan komposisi majelis yang sama pula, seyogianya permohonan yang diajukan oleh Zainal Ma’arif (vide Putusan Nomor 15 P/HUM/2009) tidak dapat diuji kembali (nebis in idem) atau setidak-tidaknya menyatakan amar putusan yang serupa, sebab apabila kita perbandingkan dalil dan materi permohonan, sebenarnya tidak ada perbedaan yang mendasar dari keduanya.

Kedua, menafsirkan Pasal 205 ayat (4) UU No 10/2008 dengan cara “Partai politik yang sudah memperoleh kursi pada tahap I karena mencapai BPP harus diikutkan kembali pada penghitungan perolehan kursi pada tahap II tanpa menggunakan sisa suara yang dimilikinya,tetapi secara utuh diperhitungkan semua suaranya,”(vide halaman 8) adalah tafsir yang terlalu dipaksakan.

Dengan cara penghitungan demikian, maka akan terjadi “double counting” dalam penentuan kursi, yaitu dihitung dua kali di tahap pertama dan juga di tahap kedua, hal mana bertentangan dengan prinsip "one person one vote". Tafsir ini pun tidak lagi kompatibel dengan sistem proporsional yang telah diterapkan sejak lama di Indonesia.

Bila pun ada kelemahan karena dianggap tidak adil dalam mengonversi jumlah suara partai dengan jumlah suara kursi, maka hal ini memang sedari awal telah diakui secara sadar namun disepakati untuk tetap diberlakukan, mengingat tidak ada satu sistem pemilu pun yang hadir tanpa celah dan kelemahan masing-masing (Florian Bieber, 2007).

Ketiga, amar putusan a quo juga tidak konsisten dan sinkron antara satu dan yang lain. Angka kedua amar putusan justru memutuskan bahwa Pasal 22 huruf c dan Pasal 23 ayat (1) dan (3) Peraturan KPU No No 15/2009 “Pembentukannya bertentangan dengan ketentuan yang berlaku dan lebih tinggi yaitu UU No 10/2008,” (vide halaman 16). Dengan kata lain, diputus dalam ranah uji formil, padahal permohonan berbicara pada ranah pengujian materiil yang tentu keduanya memiliki konskuensi putusan berbeda.

Seandainya pun “pembentukannya” yang dianggap bertentangan, maka rujukan seharusnya adalah UU No 10/2004 tentang Pembentukan Peraturan Perundang-undangan, bukan UU No. 10/2008 mengenai Pemilu Legislatif.

Keempat, amar yang memerintahkan KPU untuk merevisi dan menunda pelaksanaan Keputusan KPU No 259/Kpts/KPU/2009 merupakan perintah yang kebablasan (overheated). Memutus permohonan tersebut tidak bisa serta-merta disandingkan dengan putusan yang dikeluarkan oleh MK terkait penerapan Pasal 205, sebab objek dan kewenangan yang sedang dijalankan berada pada ranahnya masing-masing yang berbeda. Lagipula, apabila kita telaah secara cermat, Keputusan KPU Nomor 259/Kpts/KPU/2009 yang diadili oleh MA tanggal 18 Juni 2009 telah dinyatakan batal demi hukum oleh MK sejak 11 Juni 2009, sedangkan putusan MA tersebut diputus kemudian pada 18 Juni 2009.

Tentu masih banyak lagi aspek yang bisa diperdebatkan atas perkara yang diputus oleh MA tersebut. Misalnya berwenang atau tidaknya MA menguji peraturan KPU yang status dan kedudukannya memperoleh tempat khusus dalam peraturan perundang-undangan, atau terhadap keberlakuan surut-tidaknya suatu putusan judicial review.

Upaya Hukum

Tentu kita berharap, apabila terdapat ketidakpuasan atas putusan MA tersebut, para pihak juga dewasa menyikapinya dengan jalur hukum yang tersedia. Putusan MA sejatinya dihormati dengan pelaksanaan. Namun sepanjang masih tersedia upaya hukum dan apabila diperlukan, maka kreativitas yudisial (judicial creativity) berdasar hukum perlu ditempuh baik oleh KPU maupun para pihak yang merasa dirugikan dalam membuka jalur yang buntu.

Begitu pula dengan para hakim, dengan pertimbangan di atas seharusnya tidak perlu ragu melakukan aktivitas yudisial (judicial activism) seandainya bermaksud untuk meluruskan kembali putusan tersebut berdasarkan keadilan dan hati nuraninya (Kermit Roosevelt 2008). Upaya hukum peninjauan kembali ke Mahkamah Agung atau menguji konstitusionalitas dan penafsiran Pasal 205 ayat (4) UU 10/2009 ke Mahkamah Konstitusi, mungkin saja menjadi alternatif jalur solusi hukum yang dapat diambil.

Hanya saja yang perlu dipahami adalah ketika jalur hukum yang tersedia telah habis (exhausted), maka para pihak, suka tidak suka, mau tidak mau,harus tunduk dan patuh serta menghormati pada apapun putusannya nanti. Akhirnya KPU pun tidak perlu lagi merasa cemas atas putusan tersebut, sepanjang respons dan tindakan yang muncul adalah respons hukum, bukan sebaliknya, respons politik yang sering kali hanya berbicara untuk kepentingan sesaat. (*)

* Alumnus Pascasarjana Perbandingan Hukum Konstitusi (M.C.L.) pada Faculty of Law, University of Delhi. Pemerhati Hukum dan Konstitusi pada The Center of Law Information (The CeLI).

Link: http://www.seputar-indonesia.com/edisicetak/content/view/258646/

Who owns Jerusalem?

Below is a commentary by author Jack Kelly (website and article here), in which he explains the history and significance of Jerusalem - through God's eyes.

It is amazing to me, that this relatively small city would receive so much attention by the world's leaders, as peace-plans in the Middle-East continue in a seemingly never ending process. The fact that this scenario was predicted over 2,500 years ago is striking. Imagine predicting (today) what city in the world will be a "burdensome stone" for the world in the year 4500. Hard to imagine. But thats exactly what God's prophets predicted and, like all prophecy, it is happening just as written.

The following is a very timely and informative summary of Jerusalem - as seen by man and as seen by God:


Leave Jerusalem Alone

This Week’s Feature Article by Jack Kelley

250 Israeli Rabbis Sign Letter to Obama: “Hands off Jerusalem”
In a reference to the upcoming “nine days” which culminate in Tisha B’Av, the rabbis tell US Pres. Obama that “during these days, in which the Jewish people mourn the destruction of Jerusalem and mark the disgraceful memory of its destroyers, we are certain that you, Mr. Barack Obama, do not want to enter that disreputable list of those who raise their hand to strike Jerusalem and those who live in it.”

The rabbinical letter ends with a clear request: “If you, Mr. Obama, wish to leave any chance at all for peace and quiet in the Middle East, take your hands off the Holy City of Jerusalem right now!”


Two hundred and fifty rabbis have signed the appeal, and efforts are being made to collect the signatures of every rabbi in Israel before the letter is sent to Washington. (Source: A7News)

Tisha B’Av is a particularly sad day for Jews. Both the first and Second Temples were destroyed on that day, and down through history a number of other religious and national catastrophes have occurred on the 9th of Av as well. The nine days mentioned above refer to the first nine days of Av, a time of national mourning for these events that culminates on the 9th, Tisha B’Av. This year Tisha B’Av falls on July 30 so the nine days of mourning began on July 22.

The chain of events that resulted in this letter began in 1948 when Jordan attacked the newly created state of Israel and captured the Eastern part of Jerusalem including the Temple Mount. All of the city had been given to Israel by the UN. 19 years later Israel got it back in the 6 Day War and annexed it, reuniting the city. Since then several hundred thousand Jews have made Eastern Jerusalem and its suburbs their home. But the international community has never accepted the legality of the annexation. It calls the neighborhoods they live in “settlements” and the so-called Road Map agreement forbids additional settlement construction until Jerusalem’s final status has been negotiated. Will it remain undivided as Israel’s capitol, or will it be divided again with the Eastern part becoming the capitol of a future Palestinian state?

Israelis are united in their view that all of Jerusalem is legally theirs and it must never be divided again. That’s why PM Netanyahu has flatly rejected the world’s demand that he deny permission for an empty building in East Jerusalem already under Jewish ownership to be converted into apartments. This construction project, financed by Miami Beach philanthropist Irving Moskowitz, is located mere yards from Israel’s national police headquarters and other government ministries, and only a few blocks from the country’s prestigious Hebrew University.

Here’s How It All Began
The Jewish claim to Jerusalem is over 3,000 years old. While the Jews were still in the wilderness, God told them he was going to name a place for them to worship Him after they entered the Promised Land. (Deut. 12:5) But it wasn’t until David was King, several hundred years later, that God chose Jerusalem to be that place.

“Since the day I brought my people out of Egypt, I have not chosen a city in any tribe of Israel to have a temple built for my Name to be there, nor have I chosen anyone to be the leader over my people Israel. But now I have chosen Jerusalem for my Name to be there, and I have chosen David to rule my people Israel.” (2 chronicles 6:5-6)

Once God had selected a location, Satan wanted it as well. He had already duped Adam and Eve into forfeiting their dominion over earth to him. But unless he has possession of Jerusalem, he doesn’t really have possession of Earth. Three times the Lord Himself called Satan the prince of this world (John 12:31, 14:30, 16:11). And Paul said he’s the god of this age (2 Cor. 4:4). Satan needs Jerusalem to perfect his claim to planet Earth. This is why the final battle for control of Earth will be fought over Jerusalem.

Jerusalem has no natural harbor. It isn’t situated astride any major trade route. Nor is it a gateway city. It’s not a banking or industrial or commercial or medical or hi-tech center. It has no natural resources. While it’s too hilly for an airport it doesn’t command any strategic high ground. It has nothing at all to commend it except for the fact the God chose it for Himself. And to Satan that makes it the most desirable piece of real estate on the planet.

Jerusalem was destroyed by the Babylonians as part of God’s judgment against them for their idolatry, but even as He was sending them away He promised He’d bring them back.

This is what the LORD says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my gracious promise to bring you back to this place. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:10-11)

He fulfilled this promise in what came to be known as the first regathering of Israel. But even before the first one, God had Isaiah promise there would also be a second regathering, because once more Israel would be scattered and again Jerusalem would be destroyed. The second destruction began in 69-70 AD when Jerusalem was burned to the ground and by 135AD the nation had ceased to exist altogether.

This time there was no predetermined date known to man when Israel would rise again and as the centuries passed most Gentiles assumed that God had abandoned His people and transferred His blessings to the Church, even though the prophets had said otherwise. But at the end of the 19th Century the hearts of Jews around the world were stirred and the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy began to look like a real possibility after all.

In that day the Lord will reach out his hand a second time to reclaim the remnant that is left of his people from Assyria, from Lower Egypt, from Upper Egypt, from Cush, from Elam, from Babylonia, from Hamath and from the islands of the sea. He will raise a banner for the nations and gather the exiles of Israel; he will assemble the scattered people of Judah from the four quarters of the earth. (Isaiah 11:11-12)

Even though the Zionist movement began on the eve of the 20th Century, and the Balfor Declaration laid the ground work for a Jewish homeland in 1917, this second regathering officially began in 1948 and continues to this day. Immediately Satan called his troops to battle and before the ink was dry on the UN declaration that made Israel a nation again, they were at war. By the time it was over, half the Holy City had been captured. 19 years later in June of 1967 Israel reunited Jerusalem in the Six Day War.

Who’s Behind This?
As you can see, the fight for Jerusalem isn’t really between Arab and Israeli, or even between Molsem and Jew. Satan has simply stirred Israel’s enemies up for his own purposes, and as the Jews inch closer and closer to renewing their covenant with God and making Jerusalem the one place on Earth to worship Him again, Satan will make Israel’s enemies become more and more determined to stop them. He won’t give up until he has the whole world united against Jerusalem. But as we’ll see, it’s a losing strategy.

“I am going to make Jerusalem a cup that sends all the surrounding peoples reeling. Judah will be besieged as well as Jerusalem. On that day, when all the nations of the earth are gathered against her, I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock for all the nations. All who try to move it will injure themselves.” (Zechariah 12:2-3)

Zechariah saw Israel’s victory over its neighbors happening in 2 stages. First, the nations surrounding Jerusalem will rise up against it, but they’ll be sent reeling. This will be accomplished in two fierce battles, one foretold in Psalm 83 and the other in Ezekiel 38-39. God will deliver a supernatural victory in Ezekiel’s battle to open Israel’s eyes and draw them back to Him and the land He gave them.

Then they will know that I am the LORD their God, for though I sent them into exile among the nations, I will gather them to their own land, not leaving any behind. (Ezekiel 39:28)

Then at the very end of the age, the anti-Christ will mobilize all the nations of Earth and gather them against Jerusalem for one final push. It too will end in failure.

I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.” He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:

KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.

Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth and their armies gathered together to make war against the rider on the horse and his army. But the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who had performed the miraculous signs on his behalf. With these signs he had deluded those who had received the mark of the beast and worshiped his image. The two of them were thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur. The rest of them were killed with the sword that came out of the mouth of the rider on the horse, and all the birds gorged themselves on their flesh. (Rev. 19:11-16,19-21)

But In The Mean Time
The world is already pushing against Israel in a way never seen before. The US has demanded that this building in East Jerusalem not be renovated. The EU has condemned all “settlement” construction. Javier Solana wants the UN to set a date for unilaterally imposing the two state solution, dividing Jerusalem again. All the world powers have united against Israel in this matter. And this is just the beginning. But here’s the Lord’s response.

Surely the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are regarded as dust on the scales; he weighs the islands as though they were fine dust. Lebanon is not sufficient for altar fires, nor its animals enough for burnt offerings. Before him all the nations are as nothing; they are regarded by him as worthless and less than nothing. (Isaiah 40:15-17)

The LORD foils the plans of the nations; He thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations. (Psalm 33:10-11)

This is what the LORD says: I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the City of Truth, and the mountain of the LORD Almighty will be called the Holy Mountain. (Zechariah 8:3)

No other city has been so clearly and so decisively claimed by God as His own, so this isn’t about religion and it isn’t about politics. It’s about whether we’re on God’s side or on Satan’s. Those who set about to divide the only city on Earth God has claimed for Himself are taking a stand against Him personally (Psalm 2:2). and aligning themselves with Satan. And it’s not like there’s the slightest chance of succeeding. These men with their great armies who think they can push God and His people around haven’t got a clue as to how outmatched they are.

The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them. Then he rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath, saying, “I have installed my King on Zion, my holy hill.” (Psalm 2:4-6)

From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind; from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth - He who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do. No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength. (Psalm 33:13-16)

Nor is there any chance that God will change His mind or forget His promise to His people,

This is what the LORD says, He who appoints the sun to shine by day, who decrees the moon and stars to shine by night, who stirs up the sea so that its waves roar—the LORD Almighty is his name: “Only if these decrees vanish from my sight,” declares the LORD, “will the descendants of Israel ever cease to be a nation before me.” (Jeremiah 31:35-36)

or give up and go away.

For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem’s sake I will not remain quiet, till her righteousness shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch. The nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow. (Isaiah 62:1-2)

“And the name of the city from that time on will be: The LORD is There .” (Jehovah Shammah) (Ezekiel 48:35)

From all this it seems pretty clear that Jerusalem belongs to God forever, and there’s no chance that anyone trying to say otherwise will prevail. Indications this week are that the US may moderate its position where Israel is concerned, and may adopt the Bush Administration position that trying to forbid construction that only accommodates natural growth is not practical.

Some are saying that Mr. Obama is beginning to realize that his appeal to the Moslem world hasn’t changed anything, so he’s decided “to avoid a situation where he gets nothing from Arab leaders and yet is at odds with the Jews.” Time will tell, but if true, this is good news for America. After all, aren’t we in enough trouble with God already? 07-25-09

"Its just so hard to believe"

Its been a slow news week, which is always a good time for reflection. Having said that, however, one brief news article is of potential interest:

Under the category of Zechariah's prophecy that the entire world would be lined up against Israel, we see the following article "Worldwide Coalition, Media Putting Israel in Corner"

Back to the main point of reflection. I often hear folks say that the prophecies contained in the book of Revelation are so dramatic and so "epic" its simply hard to believe that they will occur. After all, the world hasn't witnessed God's hand in such dramatic ways since the Old Testament descriptions, and its hard for many people to believe that the entire earth can actually experience these kinds of events, as dictated directly by God. But the book gives us some interesting insight and direction, which specifically seems to address this natural skepticism.

The first three verses of the book of Revelation contain scriptures that are unique to this book:

"The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who testifies to everything he saw - that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ." (1-2)

"Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it because the time is near." (3).

This last verse is interesting on several levels. First of all, this "blessing" is not offered in any other book in the bible. "Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy".

Secondly, we see "...blessed are those who....take to heart what is written in it because the time is near.". You may recall that the last chapter of Daniel reveals how the angels informed Daniel that the prophetic scrolls would be "opened" at the end of the age. Now, we see that when men take the book of Revelation "to heart" then the time is near. Its been the second half of "this generation" that man began to read the book and understand it in a literal manner. Prior to this generation, throughout the last 2,000 years, the book of Revelation was viewed as a symbolic writing, not intended for specific, literal interpretation. Finally, as part of God's divine plan, man is reading, understanding, and applying the book of Revelation in a literal way, and in essense "taking it to heart". Another sign that we are in the last days.

But what I find as more interesting, are three key scriptures found in this book. I believe we receive these three scriptures because of the epic nature of Revelation, and to serve as a guide in reading and understanding the book:

In Revelation 19, we see a scene taking place in heaven, just at the point of the Second Coming, a huge "multitude" of saints celebrating God's greatness by praising and recognizing that the Tribulation is over and Jesus is returning to earth to reign, we see the following words by one of God's angels:

"And he added, "These are the true words of God" (Rev. 19:9).

No ambiguity there. No reference to symbolism. No reference to dreams or visions. As seen above in the beginning words of the book, John was testifying to what he was shown, and he was shown the future exactly as it happened.

Reading further:

Revelation 21:5 "He who was seated on the throne said. 'I am making everything new!' Then he said, 'Write this down for these words are trustworthy and true."

In this scripture, God Himself informs John (and subsequently, us) that these very words are trustworthy and true. Note the LACK of direction that these writings could be symbolic or allegoric in nature. No. Rather God makes it very clear that one can trust these VERY WORDS exactly as stated.

Thats two specific references to taking the words literally. But that wasn't enough. We see this yet a third time:

"The angel said to me, 'These words are trustworthy and true. The Lord, the God of the spirits of the prophets sent his angel to show the servants the things that must soon take place.'" (Rev. 22:8)

It doesn't get any more clear than that does it? For someone who believes that the book of Revelation is a vague, symbolic book, to be interpreted by the individual, would necessarily need to explain these three key scriptures. If the book was intended to be understood as some kind of mystical symbolism, then why would God have directed us by stating that each WORD of the book is both trustworthy and TRUE?

Then, if that weren't enough, we see yet another blessing to those who read and understand the "words" of this book:

"Behold, I am coming soon!
Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy in this book." (Rev. 22:7)

Hard to believe?

Not really. God said so. He said the words are trustworthy and true. He also said that we will be blessed by reading and keeping these words, as stated.

Thats enough for me.

Lomba Karya Tulis Mahkamah Konstitusi 2009

Dear para pengunjung setia Blawg JURNAL HUKUM,

Sekedar menginfokan mungkin ada di antara rekan-rekan yang tertarik untuk ikut Lomba Karya Tulis dan/atau Foto Jurnalistik Mahkamah Konstitusi untuk Tahun 2009 ini. Info selengkapnya mengenai Lomba Karya Tulis dapat dilihat di bawah, sementara itu untuk Lomba Foto Jurnalistik keterangannya dapat diunduh di laman MK. Bagi rekan-rekan mahasiswa hukum, akan diadakan juga Lomba Debat Konstitusi yang infonya dapat ditanyakan kepada Dekanat Fakultas Hukum masing-masing. Jika berkenan, mohon info ini juga dapat disampaikan kepada yang membutuhkan.

Terima kasih dan selamat berpartisipasi.

Salam Hormat,

Pan Mohamad Faiz
Mahkamah Konstitusi RI

# http://jurnalhukum.blogspot.com#

* LOMBA KARYA TULIS MAHKAMAH KONSTITUSI 2009 *

Tema karya tulis yang dilombakan adalah Peran Mahkamah Konstitusi dalam Proses Demokratisasi.

Dengan sub tema:

• Peran Mahkamah Konstitusi dalam Mewujudkan Pemilihan Umum yang Jujur dan Adil;
• Peran Mahkamah Konstitusi dalam Konsolidasi Demokrasi di Indonesia;
• Kedudukan Putusan Mahkamah Konstitusi sebagai Negative Legislator;
• Kekuatan dan Pelaksanaan Putusan Mahkamah Konstitusi dalam Sistem Hukum Nasional;
• Peran Mahkamah Konstitusi dalam Penguatan Hak-Hak Asasi Manusia dan Hak Konstitusional Warga Negara;
• Menggagas Constitutional Complaint di Indonesia.
  

Lomba Karya Tulis MK ini terbuka bagi akademisi, jurnalis, dan masyarakat umum danLomba tidak diperuntukkan bagi segenap pegawai Sekretariat Jenderal dan Kepaniteraan Mahkamah Konstitusi.

Para juara akan mendapatkan hadiah sebagai berikut:

Juara I : Uang Tunai Rp. 7.500.000,- + Piagam Penghargaan + buku-buku terbitan Setjen dan Kepaniteraan MKRI.

Juara II : Uang Tunai Rp. 6.500.000,- + Piagam Penghargaan + buku-buku terbitan Setjen dan Kepaniteraan MKRI.

Juara III : Uang Tunai Rp. 5.000.000,- + Piagam Penghargaan + buku-buku terbitan Setjen dan Kepaniteraan MKRI.

Pajak hadiah Lomba Karya Tulis ditanggung oleh pemenang.

Hasil karya pemenang dan finalis akan dimuat dalam Jurnal Konstitusi yang diterbitkan oleh Sekretariat Jenderal dan Kepaniteraan MK.

Naskah soft copy dan hard copy karya tulis dikirimkan melalui pos kepada:

PANITIA LOMBA KARYA TULIS MK, Gedung Mahkamah Konstitusi RI, Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat No. 6 Jakarta Pusat 10110/PO Box 999 Jakarta 10000.

Soft copy karya tulis dapat juga dikirimkan melalui Email: karyatulis@mahkamahkonstitusi.go.id. Naskah harus sudah diterima Panitia Lomba paling lambat Senin, 3 Agustus 2009 (cap pos).

Para pemenang namanya diumumkan di media massa dan laman MKRI: www.mahkamahkonstit usi.go.id.

Informasi lebih lanjut dapat menghubungi:

Humas Mahkamah Konstitusi Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat No. 6 Jakarta 10110, telepon (021) 23529000 Ext. 18212, faks. (021) 386 3877.

Ketentuan penulisan dan sistematika penulisan juga dapat diunduh pada www.mahkamahkonstit usi.go.id.

In the words of the apostle Paul

Looking around at what is happening to this country (and the rest of the world for that matter) is both depressing and sad. As we see freedom - the very freedom that have been fought for, for so many years, dissolving rapidly before our very eyes - it helps to have a biblical perspective. Unless your head is buried so far in the sand that you don't see what is happening all around us, then you probably share the same sense of helplessness and powerlessness that so many of us feel.

In fact, if it weren't for biblical prophecy and the hope and assurance that it provides, I can't imagine facing the imminent future here on earth.

One scriptural passage that rings so true, in terms of describing the world that we live in today was written in the first century A.D. by the apostle Paul. Its amazing that he was given such a clear vision of the days we find ourselves in:

"But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God - having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.

They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over weak-willed women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth.

Just as Jaanes and Jambres opposed Moses, so also these men oppose the truth - men of depraved minds, who, as far as the faith is concerned, are rejected."

(2 Timothy 3:1-9)

The apostle Paul continues a few verses later:

"For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist..."

(2 Timothy 4:3-5)

Now comes the good part:

"Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day - and not only to me, but also to ALL WHO HAVE LONGED FOR HIS APPEARING" (emphasis mine)

(2 Timothy 4:8)

We have so many promises through God's prophetic scriptures. As dark as the world is becoming, as evil as man is in this age - we still have tremendous hope through God's word. We have to cling to that with every fiber of our being, as God has directed.

There will be a judgment coming. Ours, the "Bema Judgment" as described in 2 Corinthians 5:10, will actually consist of rewards for the believer's work while on earth - and we also know that God won't see our sin, as the blood of Jesus covers it 100%. For non-believers, however, they will meet a different judgment, known as the "Great White Throne Judgment", described in Revelation 20:11-15. God will see and judge their sin - the sins of a non-believer, sins which will not be covered by the blood of Christ Jesus.

God will make everything right. In the words of Jesus, we receive even more comforting promises:

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy

Blessed are the pure in heart for they will see God
Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called sons of God

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness for theirs is the kingdom of heaven

Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me
Rejoyce and be glad because great is your reward in heaven, just as it was for the prophets before you"

(Matthew 5)

Soon. Soon we will have true justice, true judgment, true righteousness, true comforting, true rewards and true mercy, just to name a few.

Its a promise from God.

Israeli warships rehearse for Iran attack

Two current headlines basically tell the story:

"Israeli warships rehearse for Iran attack in Red Sea"


"Ahmadinejad: Iran will 'bring down' Western foes"

We seem to be moving closer and closer to a conflict between Israel and Iran, and the rhetoric is increasing. Now, with Israeli warships in the region, in a very public display in what "has been described as a rehearsal for a possible attack on Iran", it seems that we have moved yet one step closer to war. Unless we see a miracle, it seems obvious that war will take place in the near future.

Major Contractions: Birth Pains Continue

There is so much in the news right now, all I have time for are the headlines.
Its interesting; I was going to post on earthquake signs yesterday but felt that there other, more important prophecy news. Then today we see what happened in New Zealand - the major quake there was so recent, there aren't any articles yet, only the headlines. They have already had two major "aftershocks" >6.0. Below are the major earthquakes just in the last few days:

"Magnitude 7.8 - OFF WEST COAST OF THE SOUTH ISLAND, NZ"

6.3 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Offshore Taiwan"

"Thousands camp in tents after 6.0 quake in China"

"Tsunami spotted following South Island quake"

"Mysterious tremors detected on San Andreas Fault"

In other signs and birth pains:


"Israeli Warships Push Much Closer to Iran". This is highly significant as it shows in a very public display, that Israel is potentially making the initial moves towards dealing with the Iranian situation, This seems to be escalating as the clock is ticking loudly towards Iran's nuclear capability (and don't forget - with a leader who has sworn to destroy Israel).

And last, but not least, in our "Mark of the Beast" progress report, we see the following, interesting news:

"India to issue all 1.2 billion citizens with biometric ID cards". The interesting quote here is the following: "The Government in Delhi recently created the Unique Identification Authority, a new state department charged with the task of assigning every living Indian an exclusive number. It will also be responsible for gathering and electronically storing their personal details, at a predicted cost of at least 3 billion"

This is significant, because historically, "scoffers" told us that something like this couldn't be done on a large scale. They also told us that such use of such "ID information" (such as what we know will be implemented with the Mark of the Beast") would never be used for "personal information". But here it is, in India, and it includes an electronic storage of "personal details" for 1.2 billion citizens. Where are the scoffers?

It looks like we are in the midst of another "contraction". On the one hand, its surprising that we see such a collection of signs in a matter of days, but on the other hand, its exactly what Jesus said would happen as we approach the last days.

More birth pains. We can't say that we weren't warned, can we?

Pestilence: Swine Flu Update

We've been closely following the Swine Flu pandemic for a variety of reasons. One reason, of course is biblical prophecy, as Jesus directed us to watch for the rise in pestilences as part of the end times signs. In terms of the Swine Flu specifically, it has been interesting to follow from a medical perspective, as this flu has been atypical in its timing (unlike most seasonal viruses, this has continued well into the summer months), the "patient population" (age, health status etc.), and its genetic profile, which resembles the 1918 pandemic which killed 50-100 million people. Additionally, it just refuses to go away. The 1918 flu had similar traits, clinically, as it hung around for the summer months before mutating into a much more virulent form that we are now all familiar with.

Two recent articles have come out, which provide more details as research continues.

In this article from reuters "New flu 'unstoppable', WHO says, calls for vaccine", we see that the Swine Flu "attacks people differently than seasonal flu -- affecting younger people, the severely obese and seemingly healthy adults, and causing disease deep in the lungs." The point here is, the flu is acting like its genetic structure would ominously suggest - much like the flu of 1918. These clinical traits also reveal the differences in this flu as contrasted to the typical seasonal flu.

In a second article "New flu resembles feared 1918 virus:study", we see similar concerns regarding the similarities with the 1918 virus.

Still, currently this flu is relatively mild in terms of both morbidity and mortality.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention or at least reference the many conspiracy theories circulating, about this flu. I am not saying that I believe these various conspiracy theories, but in efforts to remain completely objective, these theories are worth watching, particularly given the era in which we live. To itemize:

- One of the theories is based on the unique genetic structure of this virus. Without going into great detail, there are some elements of its reported genetic structure that ARE quite unusual. The suggestion is, that the virus was created in a lab for intent which is unclear to me, but allegedly would be a planned outbreak, consistent with plans for a global governance. Not commenting on this, just observing and reporting.

- Similar theories are based on the fact that the reaction (perhaps better stated as "over-reaction") around the world doesn't match the clinical (mild) scenario. In addition, the mad rush to implement a vaccine, on a world-wide basis, seems out of line with this mild disease. I can see both sides of this argument. On the one hand, if authorities did NOT create a vaccine at this point, and the virus DID become serious, like the 1918 flu, then they would be accused of ineptitude. On the other side, it does seem perplexing at the "panic" over such a mild flu, leading to this "mandatory" vaccine which is proposed in many countries.

The bottom line, to me, is perplexing and I am unsure where this is going. I have concerns about any vaccine that is hastily prepared for mass use. The last time this was attempted ('76.'77), it was an absolute nightmare. Because adequate safety testing wasn't performed (in the "rush" to get the vaccine out, similar to the current vaccine), there was an array of significant side effects (aka "adverse events") resulting from the vaccine, many of which were permanent.

My fear, whether from conspiracy or not, is the same today. Vaccines which are pumped out rapidly simply don't have the usual safety testing that we see in most FDA regulated drugs. Situations such as this current Swine Flu are even more tenuous, as the pressure to mass produce the vaccine leads to even less safety data, simply because there is less time. Personally, I will be VERY reluctant to receive this vaccine for that simple reason. Fortunately, we're not quite there yet, however a vaccine will appear within months and that will lead to huge decisions by each family and each individual.

This story will not go away. It is clearly worth watching closely - not only the flu and its spread, along with its clinical syndrome, but the response by the various health authorities and governments around the world.

The "bottom-line" concern is twofold. One concern is the virus becoming more severe in its presentation, leading to a crisis similar to 1918. The other concern is an over-reaction by government authorities and what that may lead to - specifically, mass vaccines imposed on the public and how that could be implemented.

One thing is for sure - this story isn't going away any time soon.

"Global Financial Reform"

We see the terms frequently - almost daily - "Global Finance", "Global Financial System", "Global Currency". Years ago, such a concept was scoffed at as impossible. I can still recall similar reactions when Hal Lindsey, in his book "The Late Great Planet Earth", proposed the ideas of a "United States of Europe" (now known as the European Union -- extended now to the Mediterranean Union) which would include a central currency for this union. It seemed impossible at the time, but here we are in 2009 and we have the Euro, exactly as predicted.

Similarly, we are seeing the genesis of a world financial system, with a central control and a central currency. I can recall speaking on and discussing this topic almost a decade ago, and seeing similar (skeptical) reactions. Now we read these proposals almost daily in the news and no one even blinks.

This week, we see yet another summary of this situation, stemming from the G-8 meeting: Roundup: G8 summit in push for global financial reform". In this article we see some interesting quotes:

"Leaders from the Group of Eight (G8) industrialized countries and emerging economies are expected to make a new push for reform of the global financial system when they meet..."

"As the host, Italy has put it high on the agenda of the three-day summit to revamp the global financial system and rewrite the ground rules for world economic activities."

"Leaders from the group of 20 (G20) major economies met for the first time on the financial crisis in Washington last November, marking the beginning of the global financial reform....and an overhaul of international financial institutions."

An "overhaul of international financial institutions"? What exactly are these "world leaders" doing? Unfortunately, the details from these meetings are never disclosed.

From biblical prophecy, we know that the antichrist and his "partner-in-crime" the false prophet (i refuse to capitalize these "titles") will seize control of the world's financial system and implement the Mark of the Beast.

What I find amazing, is the fact that the road is already being paved for this financial system to occur. The antichrist will have FAR less work, once he gains power, than previously imagined. The world's economic crisis (whether it is real or perceived) has created the perfect scenario for a world leader to emerge and take control of the world economy. We aren't quite there yet, but the progress towards a world financial system, including "central control" is ominously marching forward.

In a somewhat related news story, we watch the continuing battle for the "permanent" EU president, as the Lisbon Treaty finalization approaches. In this France International News article (read here), we see some interesting quotes, but one stood out:

"If we have (the treaty of Lisbon), I personally hope that the first council president will be someone strong and ambitious, because Europe deserves it."

Strong and ambitious, indeed. Bible prophecy would agree.

Also in the news....

International calls for single-world-currency continues: "Medvedev sees single currency dream..."

Calls for "Global Governance" continue "Gore: U.S. Climate Bill Will Help Bring About 'Global Governance'"

Famine Watch: "Potato famine disease striking..."

The context of these articles given in the post below.

Maranatha and keep watching!

Watching the Signs

Watching the signs can be very tiring and at times frustrating. With folks who get turned on to watching prophecy - I see a typical scenario. When some folks first get pointed in the direction of prophecy and the signs they often become VERY energized and assume that the Rapture of the Church, followed by the Tribulatuion and Second Coming will happen almost immediately. Which it could. But when this doesn't come to pass, occasionally they become frustrated and stop watching - often becoming skeptical.

Jesus stated that the signs would be observable for an entire generation to witness. With a generation approximately 110-120 years, and having started (we believe) during the WWI era (according to Matthew 24:6-8), then we may still have another 10-15 years. That would be if God decided to wait until the VERY end of the generation (don't forget Jesus simply said it would be within a generation, not necessarily the very very end of that generation). I don't believe we have that long, simply because I don't believe terrorists groups, out to destroy Israel will wait that long to attempt nuclear destuction of Israel.

I posted a response to this scenario (the scenario involving frustration at waiting for Jesus' return) in a popular prophecy message board and its worth repeating here:


I believe we are in the "End Times"

Every sign that we were told to watch for is present today. Every single one.
Jesus said to watch for these signs no less than 9 times in Olivet (Matthew, Luke and Mark). He was emphatic that we watch for these signs. After giving the signs, He then took the time to give ample parables stressing the importance of watching. He never gave a caveat "If you get tired of watching - then stop watching....If you feel that the time is NOT near, then you should stop watching.."...NO - Jesus never gave that declaration.

Lets look at the facts:

- Israel has been formed as a nation, fulfilling Ezekiel's vast prophecies.
- We have witnessed a ("last generation") - a generation that Jesus said would begin with "Nation against Nation, Kingdom against Kingdom", and "Wars and Rumors of War"....This, according to Fruchtenbaum, is an idiom for World War. The "Beginning of Birth Pains" combined with a spike in world Famine and Earthquakes....All of these signs spiked dramatically, in the WWI and WWII eras.
- The world's militaries, for the first time in human history can destroy the planet.
- According to Daniel 12 - this last generation would witness an unpresidented period of "Knowledge" and Travel"...Do I need to make this case?
- Persecution: More Christians (~ 150,000/year) are killed for their faith than EVER before. This ANNUAL number exceeds the entire 300 year period of Roman Persecution Christian killing
- ISRAEL is surrounded by enemies (after the miraculous re-gathering)
- ISREAL's land has been restored, with springs, greenery, plants, food, after having been a desert wasteland for 2000 years - fulfilling Ezekiels prophecies
- We see the push for global governance, global currency, and a "cashless society" like never before - not even close
- Gog-MaGog alliances are basically formed - today - FAR more than they have ever been in human history.
- The "Revived Roman Empire" is alive and well, in the EU/MEd Union - unequivocally.
- Famine, in raw numbers is higher today than it has EVER been in human history.
- Earthquakes - quake numbers today exceed any other period in history. By FAR - not even close.
- For the first time in human history - we have the technology for the Mark of the Beast. First time.
- For the first time in human history - the whole world can watch the Two Witnesses death and resurrection. First time.


These are the signs that we were told to watch for - and they are all here. What else do folks want or need to see??


This is just a brief synopsis of the signs...SO....There are only TWO possibilities. Either we are at the end of the last generation ----- OR ----- this is all just a HUGE coincidence..Yet the bible never informs us that there would be a period in history that ALL of the signs would APPEAR TO BE PRESENT - but not....Wouldn't the Bible inform us of such a coincidence?

Jesus said - during His first appearance that people were HYPOCRITS for knowing the weather signs for their farming purposes, BUT not knowing the signs of His arrival. He said to the two men leaving Jerusalem (Luke 24) - that they were SLOW OF HEART not to understand the prophecies of His coming. And again, He emphasized NINE times in Olivet to WATCH and to be PREPARED for His coming.

As a scientist - I can safely say that I have NEVER seen such an abundance of Data pointing in one single direction...Never. To say that we are not in the last days is simply ignoring the data.

Jesus may not come EXACTLY when we want Him to. We still have another 10-15 years left in this generation (based on Fructhtenbaum and others - view that we are in the generation), and If God tarries this long its HIS design and HIS decision. My whining won't speed things along as much as I'd like to be in New Jerusalem right now.

I understand that God has a perfect plan that plan may not coincide with MY plans...I believe the rapture will occur within the next couple of years (probably MUCH sooner), but if God decides to wait another 10-15 years:

I'll STILL FOLLOW JESUS' COMMANDS TO WATCH - AS I CONTINUE TO DO HIS WORK. I WILL NOT LET MY PERCEIVED "DELAYS" in JESUS' COMING TO ALLOW ME TO BE SAD, UNHAPPY OR TO STOP WATCHING. HE WILL COME WHEN HIS PERFECT TIMING IS RIGHT, AND I WILL BE WATCHING AS HE COMMANDED.


MARANATHA!

Calls for a "Global Fix" and a "Global Leader"

Many of the end times signs that we watch daily, involves watching the world as it approaches the seven-year tribulation period. The books of Daniel and Revelation provide ample information regarding this period. During the early "Judgments" of Revelation, we see how quickly warfare, famine and death all spread throughout the earth. Currently, the economic situation, the world's famine situation and various countries facing a threat of significant warfare (Israel,Iran, Russia, Georgia, Ukraine, North Korea, South Korea, Afganistan, Pakistan, India, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and on and on this list goes), are all seemingly on the brink of exploding. Author and prophecy scholar Jan Markell recognizes this, and as someone watching these end times scenarios has an interesting commentary on the state of affairs in the world today:
full article here:





The Cry for a Global Fix
By Jan Markell


The nightmare on Wall Street is far worse than a dozen movies combined of The Nightmare on Elm Street. The long-predicted financial meltdown of America's debt-ridden economy finally arrived in the Fall of 2008 under the Bush administration. The elements of a perfect storm converged. Since then, there has been a cascade of bad economic news on a daily basis that makes even those with great faith that God is in control a bit shaky.

Dr. Mark Hitchcock has connected the dots in his new book, Cashless: Bible Prophecy, Economic Chaos, & the Future Financial Order. Hitchcock presents the best case I have read as to how America has changed forever and how it applies to what the Bible foretold. He asks the right question: "What if the global financial chaos is not just a massive economic meltdown but rather, the genesis of a dramatic, tectonic shift toward a global economic system?"

People in pain are willing to go along with almost anything the government proposes if it can stop the economic bleeding. Thus, global cooperation has been astonishing. In tough times, people are willing to surrender freedoms, make concessions, and cooperate in ways never imagined. And this is why many Americans are going along with the socialization of our country.

The words of Thomas Jefferson are a stark reminder and warning: "A government big enough to give you everything you want is strong enough to take everything you have." And according to the Bible, that's exactly where all of this is ultimately headed. Economic chaos is leading to a cashless society as one foundation for a future financial order. There is a cry for a "global fix." The only question is, how soon will it be fully implemented?

The rush toward globalism and a cashless society will grease the skids for the coming of the slickest politician the world has ever known. He is called the Antichrist, the son of destruction, the lawless one, and the beast. He will seize the reins of world power and the global economy to advance his own agenda.

Many have wondered what could possibly happen to make the world ripe for the arrival of this evil one. Yes, a collapsing financial system is a setup. But there also must be a longing for a "man with a plan." A "Mr. Fix-it." We see how much of the world considers Barack Obama to be "president of the world." Evan Thomas of Newsweek said of him, "Obama's standing above the country, above the world. He's sort of god."

I am not suggesting Obama is the Antichrist. But the adulation knows no bounds. Search engines reveal thousands of references to him as a "messiah."


In the last ten days we have seen more "man worship." As an attendee of Michael Jackson's funeral said, "He's our prince, he's our king." While the constant news coverage of the event has been intolerable, it reveals that once again mankind longs for a "savior." No matter how sick Jackson was, to many, he was and is a god. The longing is there.

Nations are uniting like never before! Get used to hearing about the G-7, G-15, G-20, G-30. There must be a forced economic alliance to stay afloat.

Today the Pope called for a "world political authority." In his 30,000-word encyclical, he pushed for "reform of the United Nations Organization, and likewise of economic institutions and international finance, so that the concept of the family of nations can acquire real teeth." He is calling for the mandatory transfer of wealth from the haves to the have-nots through the brute force of the state. He even offers one suggestion as to how this might be made less objectionable to those whose wealth would be taken.

So now even the Pope is a part of the "perfect storm."

Back to Mark Hitchcock's book that outlines all of this without naming the names I have. There are approaching hoof beats from the four horsemen of the apocalypse. It's just a foreshadowing now. They appear in the Tribulation, which we are not in at this time but read about it in Revelation 6:1-8. You can read about financial collapse, hyperinflation, and famine in the land. Don't think it can't happen! It did in the Weimer Republic in the 1920s and it is taking place today in Zimbabwe. In both instances a day's wages were and are required to buy a loaf of bread! And with the Federal Reserve printing money faster each day, the logical conclusion is hyperinflation in America in the near future.

So when will we be cashless? We're in the process. From online payments to direct deposit to credit card use, the world is more and more comfortable without the burden of cash. As one pundit put it, "Buddy, can you spare me a card swipe?"

It's all a setup that is foretold in the Bible. How tragic that many denominations don't take such passages literally. They allegorize them as though they were nothing but a fairy tale. And why would God write fairy tales? Those folks who take this allegorically, or who have skewed eschatology, are missing out on the clues to all that is happening today.

Two worthwhile commentaries

Just this morning I came across two commentaries that are very worthwhile:

1. Hal Lindsey wrote an excellent summary of the situation between Iran and Israel. Almost every "sign" points to an invasion by Israel - intended to destroy Iran's nuclear facilities: (full article here)




Will Israel Strike Iran?

Hal Lindsey

Many factors are now converging to indicate that Israel is at long last about to attack Iran's nuclear enrichment facilities.

* Factor 1: President Obama's plan to draw Iran into an arms-length working relationship to help the U.S. establish stable governments in Iraq and Afghanistan and to restrain terrorist activities in the region have clearly been dashed. If there was ever any hope of that plan working, it was clearly rejected by the Ayatollahs and Ahmadinejad when they smashed the popular rebellion of citizens over the rigged Presidential election. If Obama had any plans to force Iran to abandon their headlong pursuit of producing nuclear weapons, it was clearly rejected by the current Iranian leadership. The Obama administration has indicated by its failure to act against both Iran and North Korea's flagrant violations of U.N. warnings that it has no intention of taking the only option left to stop Iran - military action.

* Factor 2: In the light of this, the Saudi and Egyptian leaders now recognize that the U.S. has no plan to stop Iran's nuclear weapons program. They, along with other Muslim Middle East oil producing nations realize that their futures are in great peril if Iran goes nuclear and becomes the dominant Muslim power in the world. A former head of research in Israeli intelligence said, "The Saudis are very concerned about an Iranian nuclear bomb, even more that the Israelis."


So it appears that The Saudis and Egyptians have adopted a strategic principle from Muhammad - "the enemy of my enemy is my friend!"

Referring to a leak from a ‘diplomatic source', The London Sunday Times reported that Saudi officials have agreed in secret talks with Mossad Chief Meir Dagan to turn a blind eye to Israeli planes if they fly over kingdom to attack Iranian nuclear sites.

In any Muslim secret understanding with Israel, it is understood that they must always have public "deniability". And as soon as the Sunday Times reported this leak, the denials from the Saudis, Egyptians and Israel were predictably immediate.

* Factor 3: Another factor that indicates that an Israeli attack on Iran is imminent was revealed on July 3rd. DEBKAfile gave a special report on an Israeli Dolphin class submarine's move from the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean via the Suez Canal. This was ostensibly done to take part in naval maneuvers in the Eilat-Red Sea area. This submarine has the ability to launch advanced nuclear-armed cruise missiles through its torpedo tubes. This is a necessary capability for any future attack against Iran's nuclear facilities. It could not only launch a second strike, but also be used to pick up downed Israeli airmen. For this submarine to move through the Suez Canal required Egyptian approval. And once again, Egypt denied any such thing took place, even though there are pictures of the sub moving through the canal.

* Factor 4: In a startling interview by ABC's George Stephanoupolos of VP Joseph Biden, a tacit "green light" seems to have been telegraphed to Israel that the U.S. will not interfere with any future attack on Iran's nuclear facilities. During the interview, Mr. Biden said, "Look, Israel can determine for itself - it's a sovereign nation - what's in their interest and what they decide to do relative to Iran and anyone else."

* Factor 5: The most important factor to me is that according to many Bible prophecies about the "last days" reborn State of Israel, it cannot be destroyed. The Messiah will return to a hopelessly surrounded Israeli State and miraculously deliver it. He will then take Israel's believing remnant and turn the state into the center of the Kingdom of Heaven on earth for a thousand years. If Iran gets nuclear weapons, as reported in another article on this report, It could and would destroy Israel in seconds.


So I believe it is time for all born again believers to pray for God's people. I believe the long anticipated strike by Israel on Iran is imminent. But it will not be without great cost. Iran has the ability to strike all over Israel with a barrage of ballistic missiles that will cause many casualties. It is horrible to think about, but Israel knows that if they delay until Iran goes nuclear, the casualties will be infinitely worse. So Israel, once again with its very existence at stake, must act alone in its own behalf. And the world stands by and offers no help. Let us stand by them in prayer to their God.


2. The second commentary is an interesting perspective regarding the Rapture or "gathering up" of the Church and its ramifications. As written by author Joseph Chambers (find here), he points out the "victory" gained by the Church when Christ comes for His "Bride" and the defeat which will be handed to the adversary, Satan.

Maranatha!

Isaiah 17 ?

One reason we watch developments between Israel and Syria is because of the prophecy recorded in Isaiah 17. We have discussed this many times, but in short, this prophecy tells us that Damascus will be destroyed in a matter of hours and will become a "heap of ruins" and will cease to exist as a city. Obviously this is an unfulfilled prophecy, as Damascus is a thriving city today. It also seem vastly obvious that somehow the complete destruction of Damascus will play a role in the overall conflict in the region, quite possibly leading to the more epic prophetic events as described in Ezekiel 38-39, aka the "Gog-MaGog" invasion of Israel.

My good friend and brother-in-Christ Michael Mickey has written a timely commentary (also attached here) regarding the situation with Syria today:





Will Syria provoke the destruction of Damascus?

By Michael G. Mickey
(7-1-09)

Recently, as many of you know, Syria has been suspected of having a covert nuclear weapons program much like Iran has.

UPI reported the following on 6-6-09, documenting both present concerns and past ones:

Suspicions that Syria was trying to build a nuclear weapon have gained momentum with the discovery of uranium at a second site in the country, analysts say.

The International Atomic Energy Agency said Friday that a random test at a small research reactor in Damascus turned up processed uranium particles of a "type not included in Syria's declared inventory of nuclear material," The Washington Post reported.
And...
The first uranium discovery came after Israeli warplanes destroyed a facility on the Euphrates River near the village of Al Kibar in 2007. Syria had long claimed the bombed facility was not nuclear-related, but U.N. investigators say they found traces of a specialized form of uranium in soil around the ruined building, the Post reported.[More]
Adding to the tension Israel is already under with Iran, a nation whose leader has openly hoped for the destruction of the Jewish nation, seeking a nuclear bomb, the United States and international community breathing down its neck to make peace with the Palestinians who also want to see Israel destroyed, now there's a nuclear weapon-seeking Syria to its north. Not good.

As bad as the current situation is for Israel, one has to wonder where all of this is headed in light of Isaiah 17:1 which foretells a destruction of Damascus so terrible that it will no longer exist as a city, no small thing considering Damascus is thought by many to be the most continuously inhabited city on the face of the earth.

Isaiah 17:1: The burden of Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap.

The question on my mind right now, in light of recent developments, is: Will Syria provoke the destruction of Damascus, potentially very soon?

Mere days ago, with Syrian president Bashar Assad in attendance, Syrian officials "threatened to take "practical steps" to regain control of the Golan Heights, since Israel is clearly not willing to negotiate its surrender." (Source: Israel Today)

WorldNetDaily.com is reporting the following, documenting that Israel has been taking the threat posed by Syria seriously, even before the recent outburst:
Israel has not been standing idle at recent Syrian rhetoric and military moves.

A WND trip to the Israeli-Syrian border three weeks ago found Israeli tanks stationed alongside the Syrian border as well as a series of massive trenches dug in recent months on the Israeli side.
When Israel bombed Syria's first plant dedicated to their arch enemy traveling down the same path Iran presently is, it should've raised red flags in Damascus but it hasn't. Instead, if the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) is correct, Syria has simply relocated its efforts to become a nuclear power to a new location. As if that isn't dangerous enough in and of itself, members of its government are now threatening war with Israel for possession of the Golan Heights.

If Damascus went up in a mushroom cloud today, I'd be sorrowed for all the innocent people who would die in a scenario like that but I wouldn't be surprised in the least. While the mainstream media's attention is directed almost exclusively to Iran's pursuit of a nuclear weapon and Israel's potential attack to try and prevent that, bible prophecy foresees Iran remaining militarily viable, but by the time the battle of Gog-Magog occurs? Syria isn't mentioned as a participant, which raises the possibility in my mind that Damascus may have already been dealt with, specifically in an Isaiah 17:1 type way. Is that how it will ultimately play out? I don't know, but Syria is playing a very dangerous game right now - one it is not going to win.

Keep looking up!

In the news....

I've been off-line due to modem problems, which are now (hopefully) resolved. Probably another sign of the times (computer problems) although I can't prove it biblically (kidding).

This week there were three news stories which align with prophecy watching:

One of the most accurate prophetic predictions comes from Zechariah:

"This is the word of the Lord concerning Israel...I am going to make Jerusalem a cup that sends all the surrounding peoples reeling...On that day, when all the nations of the earth are gathered against her, I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock for all the nations. All who try to move it will injure themselves." (Zechariah 12:1-4)

This has been a continuing prophetic fulfillment ever since 1967 when Israel recaptured the Holy City. For anyone who has closely observed all of the previous attempts at peace in the Middle-East, primarily between Israel and the surrounding Arab states, it is easy to see how the last "sticking point" in every negotiation in the region has been over the fate of Jerusalem.

Even this week, we see this idea confirmed. As seen in Israel National News (read here), The Center for American Progress, which has "served as a source for several of the Obama administration's policies", issued a report recommending that control of Jerusalem be taken away from Israel.

More significant, prophetically, is the following quote: "Operating with the premise that the Old City of Jerusalem is the central problem in the peace process, the report discusses various options for a third-party entity that would replace Israel as its administrator."...Interesting choice of words...I wish them luck with this scenario (not really) - as God has clearly determined that any such effort will "injure" any nations involved in taking Jerusalem from the Nation of Israel. More importantly, the verbiage used here reads almost identically to the prophet Zechariah's words, written approximately 2500 years ago.

Also in the news is an update on the EU's progress towards finalizing the Lisbon Treaty (expected in October, when Ireland formalizes their vote approving the Lisbon Treaty). Many of us are watching this situation closely, as the treaty specifies a "permanent" president. Several people have been actively lobbying for the job, but no one as obvious as Tony Blair. We see
in this article, from the Guardian, that Tony Blair is meeting some opposition in this endeavor. Several new names are beginning to emerge, so this evolving situation is definitely worth watching. The prophetic implications are obvious, as we know the antichrist will arise from the "revived roman empire".

Also in the news, we read where former U.S. Ambassador to the UN, John Bolton is stating that an Israeli attack on Iran is the "only option in preventing the Muslim country from obtaining a nuclear weapon" (read here). Additionally we see the following quote by Mr. Bolton:

"In an article headlines 'Time for an Israeli Strike?' Bolton answered his own question by stating, 'Israel's decision of whether to use military force against Tehran's nuclear weapons program is more urgent than ever...Those who oppose Iran acquiring nuclear weapons are left in the near term with only the option of targeted military force against its weapons facilities."

We seem on the very brink of several significant prophetic events. We watch the as the EU consolidates their power structure with a "permanent" president and a similar position of power within the foreign policy department. We watch as Jerusalem continues to present the main "immovable rock", seemingly blocking finalization of the peace process in the Middle-East. We also read where the window of opportunity for Israel to deter Iran's quest for nuclear arms closing rapidly.

The word "imminent" keeps coming up. There are so many prophetic developments that seem to be JUST on the brink of complete fulfillment. Its almost as if God is keeping the "lid" on things until His perfect timing occurs. Just as all previous prophecy was fulfilled specifically and literally, so will all remaining prophecy. And we prophecy watchers have front row seats, while the rest of the world sleeps.

As stated by the apostle Peter (2 Peter 1:19):

"And we have the word of the prophets made more certian, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as a light shining in a dark place."

A light shining in a dark place. Indeed.