Testing the Spirits!

Testing the Spirits – True Spiritual Discernment

Testing the Spirits by Prof. Johan Malan

Christians should be able to test all doctrine in creeds, sermons, books, articles, as well as statements made during discussions, to determine if they are a true reflection of Scriptural truth: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1).

Every religious message has a spiritual dimension to it – either the Spirit of truth who wants to guide us into all truth (John 16:13), or Satan’s spirit of error who is intent on deceiving as many people as possible, also within churches (1 John 4:6; 2 Pet. 2:1-2).

The testing is done by carefully comparing a particular statement or message with biblical pronouncements to determine its authenticity. If this is not done, false teachings will naively be accepted by those who are ignorant of what the Bible teaches (cf. 2 Cor. 11:3-4). Rather follow the example of the Berean Jews who welcomed Paul’s message with great eagerness but examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul had said was true (Acts 17:11). Their enthusiasm for the gospel, as well as their high regard for the apostle, did not preclude them from critically examining Paul’s message to ensure that what they believed was in full agreement with God’s Word.

Spiritual discernment

One needs spiritual discernment to be able to correctly understand God’s Word. When the Holy Spirit convicts a person of his sin, the righteousness of Christ, and the sinner’s need to be spiritually born again, He enlightens his mind to understand the basics of the gospel message (John 16:8).
However, newly converted people do not immediately understand all aspects of the more comprehensive “doctrine of Christ” (2 John v. 9), as they are babes in Christ who have to be fed with the milk of the basic principles of the Word (1 Cor. 3:1-2; Heb. 5:12-14). During this phase they are still “children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine” (Eph. 4:14).

The main problem with spiritually immature people is that they experience an inner conflict between the uncrucified flesh (their old, sinful nature which has been established through the force of habit) and the indwelling Holy Spirit who regenerated them during conversion (Gal. 5:17). They might understand certain principles of the gospel of salvation but still have to go a long way to become truly spiritual people.

A full surrender needs to be made to crucify the “old man” and to fully put on the new nature of Christ (Eph. 4:22-24). This deeper work of the Holy Spirit will sanctify the believer and give him enlightened eyes of the mind to better understand the rich heritage of the saints in Christ Jesus (Eph. 1:18).

The experience of sanctification will set in motion a process of spiritual growth which should continue for the rest of our lives, moving further away from deception by being firmly established in God’s truth (2 Pet. 3:17-18). During this ongoing process of sanctification we should make sustainable progress towards ultimate perfection and complete holiness.

Although we will not reach this level of completeness during our earthly lives we must nevertheless move in that direction. Christ said to His disciples: “Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect” (Matt. 5:48). God says, “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Pet. 1:16)

It is important to notice that the commands towards perfection and God-like holiness are written in the aorist tense, which is “an unqualified past tense of a verb (esp. in Greek), with reference to duration or completion” (Oxford Concise Dictionary). It is an imperfect tense denoting an action which is still in progress and therefore not completed.

Those who can testify of walking in the Spirit have made different degrees of progress on the way of growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ towards attaining the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. That is the reason why there would be differences among Spirit-filled (but imperfect) disciples of Christ – they are all still learning and should continue striving after perfection.

Paul says, “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” (Phil. 3:12). He was crucified with Christ and therefore emptied of self-interest, personal prejudice and human agendas (cf. Gal. 2:20), but final perfection was not yet achieved.

While we are in a human body we are subject to weaknesses and limitations imposed upon us by our humanness – these include physical, emotional and intellectual weaknesses which somehow impede our ability to reach the perfection to which we are called. We sometimes become weary and despondent, or inclined to taking shortcuts by neglecting our quiet times as well as a proper study of Scripture, which will certainly manifest as weaknesses in our interpretation and presentation of God’s Word.

Because of these factors, as well as the vested interests of our “own church” (a typical human way of seeing things, often entrenched in ecclesiastic tradition) we know in part (1 Cor. 13:12) and often misrepresent the Word in one or other way. The Word of truth should be rightly divided (2 Tim. 2:15) in order to avoid distorted and deceptive presentations of it.

The bottom-line is while sanctified disciples of Christ may be able to fully comprehend with all the saints the width, length, depth and height of the love of Christ (Eph. 3:18-19), they may still differ on a number of other matters. It is up to the individual believer to conduct a serious and impartial study of the Bible in order to gain clarity on controversial issues, even if it means breaking away from a long-standing family or national tradition.

The problem of the carnal and the unsaved

As for carnal believers, there is virtually no limit to their fantasies. They would agree to certain basic Christian tenets, but for the rest rely more on human reasoning than on the guidance of the Holy Spirit. They are more easily influenced by the theological constructions of certain church fathers and “leading theologians” than on the basic meaning of Scripture itself. The spiritualising and allegorising of Scripture, as well as replacement theology, offer them the opportunity to exalt human reasoning above the basic meaning of Scripture, thereby ending up with doctrines that are fraught with erroneous assumptions.

Many of these carnal theologians are academically well qualified and therefore in an ideal position to influence the thinking of students and other believers who listen to them or read their books. They take the lead in producing deceptive doctrines such as predestination, baptismal regeneration, covenant theology, dominionism, mysticism, and the denial of the literal, end-time fulfilment of biblical prophecies – including Israel’s restoration, the rise of a personal Antichrist, the rapture, the tribulation period, the second coming of Christ, and the subsequent Messianic reign of peace on earth.

Some of those who pose as great spiritual leaders are not even saved and only maintain a form of godliness. Their reasoning is also carnal, based upon human wisdom, but they do not even confess basic Christian beliefs such as the virgin birth and deity of Christ, the significance of His atoning death on the cross, as well as His physical resurrection and Ascension; neither do they honour the literal, divine inspiration of the Bible as God’s Word. Paul says, “And from such people turn away!” (2 Tim. 3:5).

It remains a tough challenge to grow up in the grace and knowledge of Christ without being spiritually deceived or derailed by the proponents of false doctrines – regardless of whether they are partially wrong or altogether wrong. The doctrines and teachings of those who mix truth and error are more difficult to discern. It is for good reasons that the Lord Jesus said: “Take heed that no one deceives you” (Matt. 24:4).

See also:

Who will left behind?

Rapture Alert! Make Sure You don't Left Behind

What Will You Do If You Are Left Behind?

After the Rapture

The Tribulation 

THE GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT

THE GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT by David Levy

On July 8,1741, Jonathan Edwards preached his famous sermon, "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God." Edwards held the manuscript so close to his face that the congregation was unable to see his expression as he read every word. The people, so moved by his words, gripped the backs of their pews, feeling that the ground below was about to open and swallow them into hell. One man rushed down the aisle crying, "Mr. Edwards, have mercy!"

That was then; this is now. Hell is not taken very seriously today. Martin Marty, American church historian, summarized the attitude of our day: "Hell disappeared, and no one noticed" (Erwin W. Lutzer, One Minute After You Die, p.97).

The Bible clearly validates the existence of hell. Jesus spoke more about hell than anyone in the Scriptures. But hell is not the final destiny of the damned. Worse than hell is being judged at the Great White Throne and then cast alive into the lake of fire to suffer eternally.

Why is this called the "great white throne" (Rev 20:11) judgment? It is great because of the rank and dignity of the judge, the size and extent of the judgment, the vast number of people throughout world history who will be judged, and the fact that it will seal the eternal destiny of unbelievers. It is white because it displays and emphasizes the infinite purity and righteousness of Christ, who is the holy judge. It is a throne because jesus Christ sits in sovereign majesty, using His authority to consign the wicked to eternal damnation.

Place of Judgment

John said, "I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away, and there was found no place for them" (Rev 20:11). The location of the throne is in space because the old heaven and earth will be destroyed. Scholars differ on whether the physical elements of heaven and earth will be totally destroyed (into nothingness) and newly created, or merely renovated (a remake of the present heaven and earth). A close study of Scripture would opt for a totally new creation of heaven and earth prepared for the eternal state.
The location of this throne in space is not given. The judge sitting on the throne is Christ: "the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son" (Jn. 5:22; cp. Acts 17:31).

People Judged

John said, "And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God ... And the sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and hades delivered up the dead that were in them; and they were judged every man" (Rev 20:12-13).

Believers are referred to as "the dead in Christ," but the unsaved are simply called "the dead". The Bible mentions three deaths: the "spiritually dead" (those who are not saved), the "physical death" (referring to the body dying), and the "second death" (referring to the unsaved who will be resurrected to be judged at the Great White Throne and whose destiny will be eternal punishment in the lake of fire).

All unsaved, "small and great" in life, must face Christ in judgment. People's age, position, prestige, power, popularity, wealth, or poverty make no difference - they will all be there. John said that "death and hades delivered up the dead that were in them" (Rev 20:13). "Death" claims the body of the deceased, and "hades" is where the soul and spirit of an individual reside in torment, awaiting the Great White Throne Judgment.

The word hell (KJV) is translated by three different Greek words. Geena means Valley of Hinnom and appears 12 times in the New Testament. It is the place where King Manasseh offered Jewish children to the heathen god Molech (2 Chron 33:1-6). During New Testament times, a fire burned continually in this valley. It was used as a garbage dump to burn rubbish, dead animals, and the bodies of criminals. Jesus often used this term to give a pictorial image of what hellfire would be like. Geenna is referred to as the "lake of fire" in verse 15.

The Greek word Tartaros is translated "hell" in 2 Peter 2:4. It was used in Greek mythology to refer to the unseen world where evildoers were punished. Peter used this word in reference to the subterranean abyss, where some of the fallen angels are chained awaiting their final judgment. The word Hades is used 10 times in the New Testament.
It refers generally to the place of the departed dead, but it is more often used to describe the temporary abode of the wicked dead prior to the final judgment.

The story in Luke 16:19-31 of the rich man and Lazarus provides the best insight of what the wicked dead experience in hades. The rich man was able to see, hear, feel torment, speak, thirst, pray for mercy, argue with Abraham, and remember his past life. From his Jewish upbringing, he knew about God, Moses, and the prophets, and he believed in miracles. He believed that if Lazarus witnessed to his five lost brothers, they would be saved from hades. Jesus indicated that the rich man was permanently separated from God and from all righteous people in paradise. He had no communication with earth and no possibility of having his sins forgiven. A person who is not persuaded to believe in God during his or her lifetime will not believe the witness of one coming back from the dead.

Premise for judgment

The premise for God's judgment is based on what is recorded in various sets of books. First, the "book of life" (Rev 20:12) was opened. This book contains a record of the names of all people who have received Jesus Christ as their Savior. The names of unsaved people are not found in the book of life because they rejected Jesus Christ during their lifetime.
Thus, their destiny will be the lake of fire. Some teach that the book of life contains the names of all people born into the world and that God blots out the names of the unsaved at their death. Other passages of Scripture indicate that only the saved have their names recorded in the book of life (Rev 3:5; Rev 13:8; Rev 17:8).

Second, "the books were opened ... And the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works" (Rev 20:12). People are always judged according to their works. The books will contain the "secrets of men" (Rom. 2:16) because all things are naked and opened before the eyes of God (Heb. 4:13). No experience is ever forgotten. The subconscious mind stores all the thoughts and experiences of life, and they can be recalled by the conscious mind under the right conditions. When facing death, people often speak about their entire lives flashing before them.
God keeps a record of all of a person's words and deeds. John said twice that people are judged "according to their works" (Rev 20:12,13).
At the final resurrection of the unsaved, "the sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and hades delivered up the dead that were in them; and they were judged every man according to their works" (Rev 20:13). Every speak of dust that comprises the bodies of the unsaved will be regathered and reformed into the bodies of the individuals, and they will stand face to face before Christ at His throne of judgment. "Every man" (Rev 20:13) means that this judgment will be all-inclusive and individual in nature.

How will the unsaved be judged from the books? First, by how they responded to the Word of God (which they rejected). Jesus said, "He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day (Jn. 12:48). Even if people never read the Word of God, they will still be without excuse (Rom. 1:20; 2:12) because God's law was written in their hearts (Rom. 2:14-16), and the revelation of God could be discerned in their consciences from creation (Rom. 1:19-20).

        Second, their own words will judge them: "I say unto you that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account of it in the day of judgment" (Matt 12:36).
Third, their own works (Rev 20:13) will judge them. All the evil that people thought, said, or did will be manifested and properly rewarded in that day. Concerning the wicked, one writer put it this way: "Back they will come, with faces wrecked and ruined by sin and with souls knotted and gnarled shriveled and shorn by lust and hate, envy and scorn, passion and pride, iniquity and crime. Back they will come to be judged - according to their works" (John Phillips, Exploring Revelation, p. 258).

        The Bible is clear: "Be sure your sin will find you out" (Num. 32:23).
Someone may ask, "Is it fair to send to eternal damnation a person who never had an opportunity to hear the gospel or accept Christ as Savior?" God, who is perfect and possesses infinite knowledge, will judge each person righteously and fairly. "For there is no respect of person with God. For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law; and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law" (Rom. 2:11-12).
Although the unsaved will be punished throughout eternity, Scripture indicates that there will be degrees in the severity of their punishment. Jesus said, "And that servant, who knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes" (Lk. 12:47-48).

The Great White Throne Judgment will not be similar to our court of law. There will be no defense attorney, no jury, no plea bargaining, no appeal, and no leniency. This judgment concerning a person's guilt and the severity of punishment will not be arbitrary but determined from his or her recorded deeds. Thus, the person's destiny is sealed before he or she stands before the judge. Christ, the judge, will pass sentence according to the record established by the defendant.

Punishment After Judgment

John continued, "And death and hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death" (Rev 20:14). Hades (hell) is not the final destiny of the unsaved; the lake of fire is their final destiny. What is meant by the "second death"? The first death results in the burial of the body, but those facing the "second death" will be physically resurrected at the proper time and cast alive into the lake of fire. It is second only to the physical death mentioned above. This is an eternal death; the individual will be separated from God forever, cast into outer darkness, and suffer eternally in the lake of fire.
This section closes with the simple words, "and whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire" (Rev 20:15).

Language like this leaves no room for any form of universal salvation, soul sleep, an intermediate state of purgatory, a second chance, or annihilation of the wicked. This is the eternal infliction of punihment resulting in the physical and mental misery mentioned by Jesus (Matt 25:41,46). The wicked will be tormented without rest, day and night, forever (Rev 14:11). Remember, "it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment" (Heb. 9:27).

See also:

Who will left behind?

Rapture Alert! Make Sure You don't Left Behind

What Will You Do If You Are Left Behind?

After the Rapture

The Tribulation

The Human Microchipping Agenda

Predictive Programming and the Human Microchipping Agenda Pt1of6

Take a look at the video below - it is quite fascinating and worth the time investment:

This video reveals just how close we may be to seeing the "Mark of the Beast" (assuming, of course, that the "Mark" is indeed a microchip which requires some degree of speculation). Regardless of the true nature of the "Mark", this video reveals just how much we are monitored on a daily basis and how gradual losses of freedom, combined with a prolonged "conditioning" process is encroaching on our daily lives.

For full version:


Predictive Programming and the Human Microchipping Agenda from John Smith on Vimeo.

See also:

Who will left behind?

Rapture Alert! Make Sure You don't Left Behind

What Will You Do If You Are Left Behind?

After the Rapture

The Tribulation

Libya developments were prophesied in Daniel 11 with startling accuracy

Libya developments were prophesied in Daniel 11 with startling accuracy  By T.R. Nicholson

In a fulfillment of prophesy in Daniel 11, the current developments in Libya against Muamar Gaddafi's regime match those foretold in the chapter with a startling and remarkable accuracy.
In Daniel 11, which is entitled "The Kings of the South and North," the prophet's vision is centered around a conflict between the two forces. Bible scholars traditionally have believed Daniel's prophesy has already been fulfilled, saying that 4,000 years ago it was a war between the King in Syria (north) and the Ptolemaic dynasty in Eqypt (south) which is depicted in Daniel 11. However, today's developments in Libya parallel uncannily the same timeline and detail of events -- revealing that Daniel's prophecy is not merely a by-gone artifact of history -- but a vital and relevant word for now.


The prophecy's modern embodiment of Kings of North and South are the European and North American forces (north) currently allied against Gaddafi's regime in Libya (south). In fulfillment of the prophecy, Gaddafi was ceremoniously crowned as "King of Africa" by African leaders in 2009, preceeding his battle with the northern nations allied against him.

Also fulfilling the prophecy was the expulsion of Gaddifi's daughter, Aisha, from her role as U.N. Goodwill Ambassador in February 2011 as violent rebellion swept Libya -- a development Daniel precisely foretold.

The following seven prophecies given in Daniel 11 are shown to have been fulfilled by a succession of developments which began when Gaddafi ordered the terrorist bombing of PanAm Flight 103 in 1988. News reports which support Daniel's prophecies for Libya are included, as are the verses in the chapter which correspond.




Prophecy 1:
Gaddafi rages against the West by launching terrorist attack on PanAm Flight 103.
Gadddafi Orders Lockerbie, Scotland Airplane Bombing
Daniel 11:11 -- "Then the king of the South will march out in a rage and fight against the king of the North..."

Prophesy 2:
Despite a coalition of western nations united in prosecution against Gaddafi for the bombing, Gaddafi escapes personal prosecution. In 2009 the Libyan who was arrested and held for 11 years for the bombing -- Abdelbeset Ali Mohmed al Megrahi -- is released by U.K. authorities.
Gaddafi Orders Airplane Bombing Murders in Scotland, But Avoids Prosecution and Sees Henchman Freed.
Libyan Bomber Defeats Charges and is Freed by UK

Daniel 11:11 -- "And the King of the North will raise a large army, but it will be defeated..."

Prophesy 3:
Gaddafi's daughter attempts alliance with the west by taking U.N. Goodwill Ambassador post, but is expelled from the post in February 2011 following Gaddafi's crackdown on rebels.
Gaddafi's Daughter is Expelled from U.N. Goodwill Ambassador post in February 2011.
Daniel 11: 6 -- "The daughter of the king of the South will go to the king of the North to make an alliance, but she will not retain her power, and he and his power will not last. In those days she will be betrayed, together with her royal escort and her father and the one who supported her..."

Prophesy 4:
Rebels rise up and take control of several cities in Libya, but Gaddafi cracks down and drives them back.
Gaddafi Defeats Rebels, Takes Back Rebel-Held Towns
Daniel 11:14 -- "In those times many will rise against the king of the South. Those who are violent among your own people will rebel in fulfillment of the vision, but without success..."

Prophesy 5:
Western coalition forces launch attack on Libya in support of defeated rebellion.
Western Forces Continue Seige on Libya with Tomahawk Missles, Bombers

Daniel 11:15 -- "Then the king of the North will come and build up siege ramps and will capture a fortified city. The forces of the South will be powerless to resist; even their best troops will not have the strength to stand. The invader will do as he pleases; no one will be able to stand against him. He will establish himself in the Beautiful Land and will have the power to destroy it."

Prophesy 6:
Western forces, led by U.S.A, will invade and occupy Libya, and then continue the invasion across the Middle East and Northern Africa.
Daniel 11:40-44 -- "At the time of the end the king of the South will engage him in battle, and the king of the North will storm out against him with chariots and cavalry and a great fleet of ships. He will invade many countries and sweep through them like a flood. 41He will also invade the Beautiful Land. Many countries will fall, but Edom, Moab and the leaders of Ammon will be delivered from his hand. 42 He will extend his power over many countries; Egypt will not escape. 43He will gain control of the treasures of gold and silver and all the riches of Egypt, with the Libyans and Cushites in submission.

Prophesy 7:
The U.S.A. will continue to expand its occupation of Islamic nations in the Middle East, with an eventual withdraw as coalition support wanes.
Daniel 11:45 -- But reports from the east and the north will alarm him, and he will set out in a great rage to destroy and annihilate many. 45 He will pitch his royal tents between the seas at the beautiful holy mountain. Yet he will come to his end, and no one will help him.

See also:

Who will left behind?

Rapture Alert! Make Sure You don't Left Behind

What Will You Do If You Are Left Behind?

After the Rapture

The Tribulation

WARNING OH EARTH! Don't Mess With ISRAEL!

We are presently at a time when we are constantly seeing Israel’s border enemies ever more emboldened to stir up strife and lash out against Israel as seen yesterdays with the terror attacks and artillery fired from Egypt. Just in the last few months alone we have seen Israel’s border enemies seeking to bait and provoke Israel to engage them and rally world opinion and its leaders against them. Israel’s border enemies - especially the Palestinian people - sadly are nothing but the pawns and victims of the anti Semitic Arab nations, Iran and Russia. These weaker Islamic nations are more than willing to heed these voices and are rabidly chomping at the bit to destroy Israel and occupy Israel’s land.

"Under Obama and the progressive Left we have seen America forsake Israel and thrown her under the Middle East Islamic bus"

Also - as of late- we have seen the world led by the United States seeking to strip from Israel it present day borders and bullying them into a forced agreement with those who absolutely abhor them and seek their utter destruction. Sadly, America has always been Israel’s strongest ally, but at present - under Obama and the progressive Left - we have seen America forsake Israel and thrown her under the Middle East Islamic bus. With an anti-Israeli Europe and now a current anti-Israeli U.S. administration, Israel’s back is totally up against the wall and they know it.

"Let me give a most solemn warning to ALL NATIONS of the EARTH, DON'T MESS WITH THE APPLE OF ALMIGHTY GOD'S EYE".

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May I - a gentile - who personally knows the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob through my saving relationship to the Messiah of Israel as the Holy Scriptures dictate (Psalm 110:1, Isa. 53, John 1:12, 3:16-17) - give a most solemn warning to ALL NATIONS of the EARTH. DON'T MESS WITH THE APPLE OF ALMIGHTY GOD'S EYE (Gen. 12:3, Zech. 2:8)!! Even though Israel - at this moment - is OUT OF THE WILL of God, they STILL represent Almighty God's future plan and promises for the nations of the world under Jesus (i.e., Salvation) Messiah in the Kingdom Age and for ETERNITY (Isa. 11:1-10, Micah 4:1-3, Zech 12:8-14, 13:1, 14:1-4, Rom. 9-11, Rev. 1:7, 20:6).

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When the present world which we are living in is becoming more and more hostile and aggressive towards Israel, DO NOT expect to see Israel idly stand by and let the world decide their fate and eradicate them from off of the face of the earth. Israel is a military might in that region with nukes and is armed to the teeth. As the world continues its anti-Semitic agenda they will one day choose to look the other way and allow Israel’s enemies in that region to grossly cross the line with Israel. It will BE THEN that Israel - in the reaction of self defense and national survival – WILL FINALLY strike back with great fury and military might. It will be at this time that Israel will TOTALLY institute the "Limbaugh Doctrine" against their border enemies and absolutely secure their borders. They will obliterate and wipe out their border enemies unto the point that they will achieve finally complete safety and security (Ezek. 38:8, 11-12). Israel will bring about their “own” peace and the world at that time will be forced to recognize it.

"It will be at this time that Israel will TOTALLY institute the "Limbaugh Doctrine" against their border enemies and absolutely secure their borders"

It will be after this time that a man from Europe will rise up, broker a deal and lend his might to a covenant (peace treaty) on behalf of Israel’s greatly DEFEATED enemies. This European leader will enter into a seven year covenant with Israel not from a position of dominance but rather from a position of weakness (Dan. 9:27, Rev. 6:2). The prophetic wheels are in motion to the point of fulfillment. As we look out of our windows, all is being set around us to bring in these fulfilling “End Time” events”.

As we draw closer to that FINAL HOUR, expect Israel’s demonic wrathful psychotic enemies to continue to rage and fight AGAINST Israel and their right to existence in the world (Zech. 12:2-4,14:2-4, Luke 4:5-6, Eph. 2:1-3, Rev 12, 16;13-16), all the while knowing that Israel can NEVER be eradicated - (2 Sam. 7:24, 1 Chr. 17:22, Jer. 31:35-36, Rom. 9-11) and driven out of their land again, even when the Anti Christ wages his ALL OUT war on Israel and establishes his seat there - in the last 3 ½ years called the GREAT tribulation - yet he will still fail, but Israel will abide FOREVER (Dan. 11:45, Zech. 12:2-4,14, 2 Thess. 2:8, Rev. 19:19-20)!

"As we draw closer to that FINAL HOUR, expect Israel’s demonic wrathful psychotic enemies to continue to rage and fight AGAINST Israel and their right to existence in the world"

The land of Canaan has been given solely unto the children of Israel forever by Almighty God and if you can destroy the ETERNAL RIGHTEOUS GOD OF ALL CREATION then you can have the land (Deut. 11:24-25, Josh. 1:3-5, Ezek. 40-48). My friend’s, that is what the FINAL battle of Armageddon is all about (Zech. 12:2-4, 14:2-4, 2 Thess. 2:8-12, Rev. 16:13-16), seeking to over throw Almighty God!

It will be at the END of all of these events (seven years to the exact day from the strengthening of the covenant) that Almighty God’s Son, the Messiah of Israel will RETURN from Heaven's glory and destroy the armies of the anti Christ which have gathered against Israel and then He will establish His glorious Kingdom reign for a thousand years in Jerusalem (Isa. 11:1-10, Micah 4:1-3, Zech 12:8-14, 13:1, 14:1-4, Rev. 1:7, 20:6). In these brief seven years, Israel will have come full circle. Finally, it will be during this time of great testing and horrific persecution by the gentile nations under the Anti Christ (Isa. 24:5-6, Zech. 13:8-9,12:9-7,13) that Israel will turn from their godless ways and receive their Messiah and Savior, the Lord Yeshua Messiah (Deut. 4:30, Psalm 2; 110, Isa.25:9, 45:17, Jer. 33:16, Zech. 12:8-14,13:1,9, Rom. 11:26).
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"It will be at the END of all of these events that Almighty God’s Son, the Messiah of Israel will RETURN from Heaven's glory and destroy the armies of the anti Christ which have gathered against Israel"

It will take the Divine judgment and the natural and SUPER natural ravishing of planet earth and her godless inhabitants (Isa. 24:5-6, Matt. 24, Rev. 13) - which concludes with the final blood bath of the Battle of Armageddon (Zech. 12:2-4, 14:1-4, Rev. 16:13-16, Rev. 19:11-21) - to bring Israel to the place of repentance and deliverance (Isa. 25:9, Zech. 12:8-14, 13:1,9).

My friend, as these events continue to unfold right before our very eyes may you be sure that you know the Savior of the world, King of the Jews and Lord of ALL creation, the Jesus Messiah as your personal Savior. All depends on what you will do with ALL that He has done for you (John 3:16-17, 2 Cor. 5:12-21)!

The Kingdom of Heaven is TRULY at hand!

,
DJP I.F. From The Ignorant Fishermen

See also:

Who will left behind?

Rapture Alert! Make Sure You don't Left Behind

What Will You Do If You Are Left Behind?

After the Rapture

The Tribulation

Power In The Holy Spirit!

The Work of the Holy Spirit

Just who is the Holy Spirit? For many the Holy Spirit is a New Testament revelation. However, the Holy Spirit’s presence is from the first chapter of Genesis to the last chapter of Revelation.

The Holy Spirit is not new to the pages of Scripture; He plays a vital role in God’s plan of redemption, from creation to eternity. In Genesis 1:2, the Spirit of God, the Holy Spirit, hovered over the formless void of creation. In the last chapter of Revelation, the Holy Spirit invites humanity to partake in God’s redemption (Revelation 22:17) 

The Holy Spirit, along with the Son and Father are co-equal, or One God in Three Persons, sharing a single Divine essence or being. The term coined to describe this relationship is Trinity, although the word Trinity is not in the Bible, the term best describes the nature of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. One God, revealed in three persons.  

As the Christian faith spread throughout out the Roman and pagan worlds, the doctrine of the Holy Spirit came into question by some. They claimed the Holy Spirit was just the influence of God and not a person. One of the more vocal opponents was Arius, who taught the Holy Spirit was only the “exerted energy of God” realized in a created world, his view was rejected at the Council of Nicea in A.D. 325[1]. The church at the Council of Nicea, proclaimed the following in response, in the Nicene Creed.

And I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Lord and Giver of Life; who proceeds from the Father and the Son; who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified; who spoke by the prophets.[2] 

Controversies and confusion regarding the nature, work and person of the Holy Spirit continue to this very day.            

The name of the Holy Spirit

We see the active work of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for Spirit is xwr Ruwach meaning wind or breath. The wind like the Spirit of God, is an unseen and active in the world. In the Old Testament, He is referred to as the Spirit of God, or the Spirit of the Lord, My Spirit or just the Holy Spirit (Psalm 51:11, Isaiah 63:10,11).

In the New Testament, the Greek word for Spirit is pneu'ma Pneuma, which like the Hebrew is derived from the meaning of wind or breath. The Holy Spirit is also called to as the Comforter or Helper, translated from the Greek word, paravklhtoß Parakletos, meaning one who comes alongside to plead the case before the judge (John 14:16,26;15:26). He is also called the Spirit of Jesus (Phil. 1:19).

Who is the Holy Spirit?

1. The Holy Spirit is God

Both Old and New Testaments testify to the divinity of the Holy Spirit, that He is not merely a force of God, but God Himself. A sampling of the many scriptures illustrates this point.

Old Testament

In the Old Testament times, the Spirit of God was active and selectively filled people, to accomplish the task. God’s Holy Spirit was involved in the creation of the universe; He gave prophetic utterances to the prophets and “filled” the Lord’s servants to accomplish the task at hand (Exodus 28:3, 31:3). Only through the Spirit of the Lord could Samson kill the charging Lion, the Spirit gave him this ability, empowering him, for God’s glory.

2 The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Genesis 1:2

5 So Samson went down to Timnah with his father and mother, and came to the vineyards of Timnah. Now to his surprise, a young lion came roaring against him. 6 And the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him, and he tore the lion apart as one would have torn apart a young goat, though he had nothing in his hand. But he did not tell his father or his mother what he had done. Judges 14:5-6

6 So he answered and said to me: "This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' Says the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 4:6. 

In Zechariah, God’s Spirit, is called My Spirit, demonstrating the Holy Spirit is the Lord Himself.

New Testament

In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God, knows all things and dwells in those who believe.

10 But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. I Corinthians 2:10-11

The Holy Spirit dwelling in the Believer causes our very body to become the Temple of God, since God the Holy Spirit is dwelling there.

16 Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? I Corinthians 3:16

2. The Holy Spirit is a Person

As the Bible makes a distinction between the Father and the Son, both being distinct “persons”, the Holy Spirit is also a distinct person. One God, three person, co-equal of one nature and essence, this is the nature of the Trinity. The Holy Spirit dwells in the believer, perfecting us for the day of Redemption.
The attributes given to the Spirit can only be given to a person, not an inanimate force. For example, the Holy Spirit grieves, searches, talks and teaches.

• He grieves with our actions and language. (Also Hebrew 10:29)

30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption Ephesians 4:30

• He intercedes for us with groaning, prompting us to pray, (Romans 8:26)
• He searches our hearts (Romans 8:27)
• He talks to us (Acts 13;2, 16:6-7, Revelation 2:7)
• He teaches all things (John 14:26)
• He reminds us of scripture (John 14:26)

3. The Holy Spirit is distinct from the Son and Father

The ministry of the Holy Spirit is distinct from the Father and the Son, and yet unified in purpose and plan. These distinctions are clear in the Gospel of John, the Holy Spirit, proceeds from the Father, sent by Jesus.

25 "These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. 26 "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. John 14:25-26

26 "But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me. John 15:26

The Holy Spirit also has a mind, (Romans 8:27, I Cor. 2:10-11, 12:11). The Holy Spirit executes God’s will in our life, sent from the Father, through the redemption of the Son.

The work of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit was in the beginning, He was involved in the creation, and He is involved in humanities’ redemption, salvation, transformation and glorification. When we understand the role of the Holy Spirit in redemption, we are enabled to plug into the vast power of God’s Holy Spirit.

Robert McQuilkin has categorized the work or activities of the Holy Spirit, to ten activities, seven of which focus inward, and three of which are focus outward.[3] The inward activities of the Holy Spirit, transform fallen humanity, allowing them to go forward and accomplish the outward activities of the Spirit in a fallen world.

Understanding the dynamics of the Holy Spirit and the mechanics of His relationship with the believer, could be illustrated by comparing two sailors. One sailor knows how the oceans and winds operate in relation to his boat, allowing him to sail the waters, while a second sailor ignorant of the winds and sailing mechanics can find himself destroyed by any unexpected storm.

We in many ways are sailors in the ocean of life, though we are saved when we know Christ, there is still a method to living a successful Christian walk, as opposed to living without a method. Jesus could calm the storms, because He was the author of creation (John 1:1-3). Through God’s Spirit, we have the power of Christ, dwelling in us.

God operates according to His Word; He has given us His word, that we may know Him. He wants us, to use His word that we might have His light in this dark world, and become His representatives to the lost and dying.

If we strive to understand the Holy Sprit, and how God’s Spirit functions, we can become master sailors in the sea of life, powered by wind of God’s Spirit, rather then our own power and strength. Many Christians try to sail the ocean of life in their own strength and power, they miss the dynamic power of God Spirit, which is within every saved person.

The Activities of the Spirit

1. Creating

The Spirit of God was with Father and the Son at the creation of the Universe, in Genesis 1:2, “the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters”. Verse 26, God says, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness;”. We are in the image of God, we have the characteristics of God, we create, we love, we have anger and we become jealous. God modeled us after Himself (Genesis 9:6). 

When Adam and Eve fell, all mankind fell, though we were made in God’s image, our nature had become fallen. Darkness came upon all the descendents of humanity, God however promised the eventual redemption of humanity through the seed of the woman (Genesis 3:15-17), the Messiah. 

The fallen nature of humanity is demonstrated before and after the flood, before the flood every thought of man was continually violent (Genesis 6:13), and after the flood, the descendents of humanity were corrupted again. God’s image, man is at conflict with God’s Spirit (Genesis 6:3) For this reason, God scattered humanity after the tower of Babel, throughout the earth. Our iniquities separated us from God, causing a separation between humanity and the Creator, without God man is completely lost.

God however put a plan of redemption in place, which involved the revealing work of God’s Holy Spirit, who through prophets, proclaimed God’s salvation to the nations.

2. Revealing

Following the fall, our ability to know and understand God, let alone ourselves was damaged and corrupt. Apart from God, we could not even know who we are, or where we came from. This “blindness” is demonstrated by the thousands of different theories and religions, which have developed over the millennia. How did we get here? Where are we going? Both science and religion attempt to find the answers to these questions. Did we come from nothing? Were we created by the Sun? Are we animals? The questions go on and on.

Only through God’s revelation of Himself, could we ever know who we are. Isaiah paints the picture of our lost condition, like blind men we grope along the walls. We are lost and without hope.

9 Therefore justice is far from us, Nor does righteousness overtake us; We look for light, but there is darkness! For brightness, but we walk in blackness! 10 We grope for the wall like the blind, And we grope as if we had no eyes; We stumble at noonday as at twilight; We are as dead men in desolate places. Isaiah 59:9-10

God revealed Himself to us through His Spirit, who spoke through the prophets, Moses through the Spirit of God revealed God’s will to Israel (Numbers 11:17), the people through whom God would work Redemption for all humanity.

21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:21

Without being aware of our condition, our need for redemption, and the provision for salvation, we would remain in the lost state. Just having the word of God is not enough, we are still blind without the Holy Spirit’s light. The Holy Spirit leads a lost person to redemption, the Holy Spirit reveals the light, and leads us to it, so we can understand the Word.

3. Redeeming

Before we can be redeemed, we need to know we need redemption. The problem for many, who rely on their own works, is they have a false sense of security. They don’t see their need of redemption, as far as they are concerned, they are not lost. 

The Pharisees illustrate this point, being lost and not knowing it, since they relied on their own works and self-righteousness, they saw no need of redemption. Contrast this to the tax collectors and harlots; they knew they were lost, because their works did not blind them.  

31 "Which of the two did the will of his father?" They said to Him, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you that tax collectors and harlots enter the kingdom of God before you. 32 "For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him; but tax collectors and harlots believed him; and when you saw it, you did not afterward relent and believe him. Matthew 21:31-32

The Holy Spirit has a two-fold part in redemption, first the Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, then the Holy Spirit leads us to repentance of sins. We can’t repent if we don’t think we need repenting. In the same vain, we limit the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives, once we rely on our own righteousness. 

Therefore when we rely on God’s righteousness and mercy, we are led to redemption, this occurs when the Holy Spirit dwells in us.

4. Indwelling

Once we realize we are lost, and need redemption, the Holy Spirit leads us to repentance, and salvation. Then the Holy Spirit takes up residence in our bodies, because we now have the righteousness of Christ. We are “Born Again” of the Spirit (John 3:3,6,8), our bodies are now the Temple of God, because God’s Holy Spirit dwells in us (I Cor. 3:17). 

Now with God dwelling inside our earthly bodies, we have the power of the Holy Spirit, we no longer need to rely on our own power. We can now have victory over the flesh, because of the Holy Spirit dwelling in us.

8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. Romans 8:8-9

Without the Holy Spirit dwelling in us, we are outside of Christ, we do not have His redemption, we have only our works. With the Spirit, God gives us the ability to have our lives transformed. 

5. Transforming

When the Holy Spirit dwells in us, why are there different results with different people? After all isn’t God’s Spirit one? How can some people have remarkable transformations, while others struggle? For one, God does not force Himself on us, he requires us to respond with obedience, we need to yield ourselves to His Spirit. Without our yielding, we get in the way of the Spirit, we prevent God’s Spirit to work in our life.     

18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Cor. 3:18

Our goal is to reflect Christ, we can only accomplish this when we yield to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.

6. Filling

The result of the transformed life, which is yielded to the Holy Spirit is a “Spirit filled” life. We have the choice to live a transformed life, filled by the Spirit or a life spiritual stagnation. God gives us the choice to yield to His Spirit or our spirit. .

18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Ephesians 5:18,22-24

When we are led by the Spirit, our circumstances do not matter, the fruit of the Spirit is manifest in our lives. For example, Paul in Acts chapter 16, was beaten and put in prison, you might think Paul would feel sorry for himself, and ask God how could He allow this to happen. Paul on the contrary is rejoicing in the prison, before he is set free.

23 And when they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to keep them securely. 24 Having received such a charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. 25 But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Acts 16:23-25

The other prisoners listened and the jailer was saved, because the Spirit led Paul.

7. Overcoming

So if we are filled with Spirit, why do we still struggle? We are being perfected, not that we are perfect. We are in the process of transformation, day to day into the image of the glory of the Lord (2 Cor. 3:1). Those times we sin, because of anger, lust, pride, covetousness, hate, etc. etc., are times we choose to not yield to the Holy Spirit. 

The Spirit gives us the ability to conquer the giants of sin in our life, just like Israel entering the Promised Land, ten spies saw the giants in the land and feared them, two spies, Caleb and Joshua saw the same giants, but knew the Lord was able. They walked in faith, and they alone from all those who left Egypt, 20-years and older were allowed to enter the Promised Land (Numbers 14:29-30). We are at war with the flesh, we have the choice yield to the Flesh or the Spirit. 

17 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:17-21        

After forty-years of wondering in wilderness, Israel was allowed to enter the Promised Land, led by Joshua. After defeating the city of Jericho, Israel was defeated at Ai, why? Because the disobedience of one man, Achan who willfully disobeyed God’s command Israel could not stand. Joshua mourned the defeat. God however, told Joshua to get up and deal with the sin committed by Israel. In the same way, like Joshua, the Holy Spirit gives us the ability to find our sins, and remove them. We cannot just mourn our sin, we need to act, we have the power. (Joshua 7)

Through prayer, and spiritual weapons, we have the power of the Spirit to overcome those areas in our life, which prevent us from “Fullness” of God’s Spirit. By developing a spiritual “Battle Plan” we can overcome the strongholds in our life, through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Outward Focus of the Spirit

Since we reflect the glory of the Lord, we are being made into His image, the Holy Spirit gives us the ability to reach out, to the lost world. Jesus came from Heaven to earth to save the lost, like Christ, we are to reach the lost and hurting of this world. The Holy Spirit will give us the power to accomplish the Lord’s work, beyond our abilities, if we yield to His power.

8. Gifting

We are all unique individual souls, each one us has a purpose and a part of God’s eternal plan. When we come to Christ, the Holy Spirit is the down payment or guarantee of our Redemption (Eph. 1:14).

The Holy Spirit also equips the believer, giving each of us our own gifts, so we can accomplish the Lord’s work.

3 Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit. 4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. I Corinthians 12:3-5

The power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit, allow to accomplish more then we would ever be able in the flesh. While the world looks at titles and pedigree, the Spirit looks at the heart, searching our real intents. When we are sincere, and pure before the Lord, we can walk in the power of the Lord.

9. Sending

Before Jesus was taken into Heaven, he told His disciples to wait in Jerusalem until they receive the Holy Spirit. What would the Holy Spirit allow them to do? Jesus said they would have power. Power for what? The Holy Spirit would give them power to “witness” about Jesus. Jesus is the focus of not only the New Testament, but the Old as well.

8 "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." Acts 1:8

After we come to Christ, we have power, because God’s Holy Spirit is dwelling in us. God empowers us to take the Gospel (Good News) of Jesus to the ends of the world. All we need to do is yield to the power of the Holy Spirit. 

We are all commissioned to deliver the Good News, we are in fact, commanded. The closer we are to the image of Christ, through the transforming power of the Spirit, the more clear the command is. The Spirit searches our hearts, and makes intercession according to the will of God (Romans 8:27), now the will of God is for us to reach the lost.

19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

20 "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen. Matthew 28:19-20

The Holy Spirit gives us the power to accomplish, His will.

10. Glorifying

We are in the process of transformation, we are not there yet, the Holy Spirit is the guarantee of the redemption to come (Eph. 1:14). We will one day be perfect and glorified in the image of Christ, restored from our fallen state. In the book of Revelation, we see the completed work of the Holy Spirit, when the New Jerusalem, the eternal home of the saved descends from the New Heaven and New Earth. 

1 Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. 2 Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. 4 "And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." 5 Then He who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And He said to me, "Write, for these words are true and faithful." 6 And He said to me, "It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. 7 "He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son. Revelation 21:1-7

For the rest of eternity, we will enjoy the presence and blessing of God, today, we are only a shadow of what we will be. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can choose to have a victorious Christian life, looking forward to the day of our redemption. We have God’s promise. Our fellowship lost at the fall will be restored.

By truthnet.org 

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[1] The Holy Spirit, John F. Walvoord, Pg. 5, Zondervan 1954

[2] The Nicene Creed

[3] Life in the Spirit, Robertson McQuilkin, 2000 Broadman & Holman Publishers, Nashille, Tennessee,

See also:

Who will left behind?

Rapture Alert! Make Sure You don't Left Behind

What Will You Do If You Are Left Behind?

After the Rapture

The Tribulation