How Christian Leaders Encourage Followers To Sin

Summary: This document warns that when Christian leaders excuse or publicly bless what closely resembles a graven image, they do more than make a private error—they confuse believers, weaken the church’s witness, and place obstacles before the spiritually immature. Its central message is a call for discernment, obedience, and courageous faithfulness so that leaders and believers alike will refuse compromise, honor the commandments of God, and lead others away from spiritual danger rather than toward it.

Introduction

“You shall not make for yourselves an idol of any kind or image of anything in the heavens or the earth or in the sea.” Exodus 20:4 ESV

A fifteen-foot golden statue is not an idol, according to Christian pastors. That claim is not a small mistake; it is a fearful sign of how far discernment has fallen. I first became aware of a ceremony in which conservative evangelical pastors dedicated a large golden image with Christian blessing and prayer. In fact, there are two such images. I expected a cry of alarm from those entrusted to guard the truth of God. Instead, some have chosen to defend these images as symbols of honor rather than idols. But when men begin to excuse what God has plainly warned against, the danger is no longer distant. It is already in the house.

The question before us is not what the world will say, but what the church will do when the command of God is treated as if it were negotiable. My concern is not to quarrel with the unbelieving world, for the world will do what the world does. My concern is with those who speak in the name of Christ and yet, by word or example, lead others toward compromise. When leaders blur what God has made clear, they do not merely stumble privately. They wound the witness of the church, confuse the weak, and train the next generation to call danger harmless. This matter must therefore be spoken of plainly, soberly, and without delay.

Weakening Foundations

Jesus taught in Matthew 7:24-27 that everything depends on the foundation. The one who hears his words and obeys them builds on rock, and when the storm comes, that house stands. The one who hears and does not obey builds on sand, and when the storm comes, that house falls, and great is its ruin. Hear the force of that warning: the difference between endurance and collapse is not appearance, not ceremony, not reputation, but obedience to the words of Christ.

That warning is not theoretical. It is upon us now. Whenever Christian leaders soften the hard edge of God’s command, they teach people to build on sand. What seems impressive in the moment—a public ceremony, a prayer of dedication, a display wrapped in religious language—cannot strengthen the people of God if it is rooted in compromise. Foundations do not collapse in a single instant; they crack first, then shift, then give way under judgment. If the church would stand in the hour of testing, then the church must return to truth now, before the storm breaks in full.

The Secrets of the Kingdom of God

During the ministry of Jesus, he often taught in parables that left many confused about the message and its purpose. This confounded the disciples, who asked Jesus to tell them plainly what his true meaning was. Jesus told them a mystery.

“ Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom.” – (Matthew 13:11; Mark 4:11; Luke 8:10)

Jesus told his disciples that the mysteries of the kingdom were given to some and withheld from others. This does not mean that truth is random. It means that spiritual understanding is bound up with the condition of the heart. Those who seek, listen, repent, and submit are given more light. Those who resist, excuse, and handle truth carelessly do not remain where they are; they grow duller, harder, and less able to hear the voice of God. That is why Isaiah speaks of those who see and yet do not perceive, who hear and yet do not understand (Isaiah 6:9-10). Spiritual blindness is not a minor weakness. It is judgment settling upon a heart that refuses correction.

That is why sincerity, humility, and obedience matter so deeply. A man may study for years, master languages, gather titles, and win the respect of many, yet still miss the truth if pride, ambition, or earthly allegiance has taken root in his heart. Preconceived ideas do not merely blur vision; they can harden the soul. The deeper things of the kingdom are not opened by intellect alone, but by a heart willing to bow before God and be corrected by his word.

For that reason, titles, platforms, and standing within the church are no proof of spiritual sight. A blind leader may speak with confidence, quote scripture, and still call falsehood truth. And when others submit themselves to that blindness, the damage multiplies. This is why the warning of Christ is so severe: if the blind lead the blind, both fall into the ditch (Matthew 15:14).

Why Does This Matter?

Why does this matter? Because spiritual blindness in leadership never stops with the leader. It spills outward. It teaches by example. It gives permission to others to handle holy things without fear. The commandment against graven images is not outdated, and it is not a matter to be brushed aside with clever explanations. Even if a leader insists that an image is not an idol, weaker and less discerning followers may still come to treat it with a reverence that belongs to God alone. Faithful leadership must therefore do more than avoid open evil. It must also refuse the kind of conduct that trains others to tolerate it.

Paul addresses this directly in 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 through the matter of food offered to idols. He makes clear that the idol itself is nothing and that eating such food is not automatically sinful. But Paul does not stop at technical innocence. He presses the conscience deeper. He asks what our actions teach, what they signal, and whether they embolden a weaker believer to move toward sin. This is the mark of Christian maturity: not merely knowing what one is free to do but being willing to restrain oneself for the sake of another’s faithfulness.

That is the matter before us. Men may argue about intention, symbolism, and definition, but leaders will not answer to God by technicalities alone. They will answer for faithfulness, clarity, and the effect their example had on those under their care. If Christian leaders publicly bless what closely resembles a graven image, they should not be surprised when others read that act as approval, reverence, or worship. What is defended as harmless symbolism may still become an obstacle to souls. A faithful shepherd does not walk the flock to the edge of error just to prove how near he can stand without falling. He leads them away from danger.

Conclusion

In time, the fruit of these things will be made plain. But whether the culture notices or not, the duty of believers does not change. These are grave times, and they call for grave faithfulness. Those who teach, lead, and speak in the name of Christ must tremble at the thought of dishonoring the Lord they claim to serve or misleading those entrusted to their care. All will give an account. Therefore, let every teacher, every leader, and every believer hear the warning of James and take it to heart before the Lord requires an answer (James 3:1-12).

Soothing Weary Souls and Feeding Itching Ears

This document is a pastoral appeal to believers who are weary, unsettled, and longing for reassurance in grim times. It encourages the church to receive both the comfort and the correction of God’s Word so that believers may remain tenderhearted, discerning, and steadfast in Christ as they face the challenges ahead.

Introduction

One of the abiding tensions among Christian believers in the West is the longing for comfort and reassuring words. Those who teach and preach in such settings are often rewarded when their message both fits cultural expectations and eases fear and tension. A message of hope and prosperity is one of the most effective ways to fill pews and grow churches. Yet alongside that is the sacred responsibility to remain biblically faithful and spiritually trustworthy. A shepherd must not only comfort the flock but also care for it by speaking truth with tenderness.

What this often comes down to is something like this: “Give me no bad news but appear biblically accurate.” And that is the dilemma—do I say only what people want to hear, or do I speak what I believe to be true, even if it unsettles them? Much of Christian media is filled with upbeat messages and words of comfort, and these naturally attract the most readers or “hits.” They become the most popular because they are easier to receive. But when a message turns from encouragement to warning, it often meets cynicism, avoidance, or mockery instead. Even so, faithful teaching must make room for both consolation and correction, because God’s people need more than reassurance—they need truth that forms them for endurance.

The Prophetic Voice in Modern Times

To present oneself as a modern prophet speaking under the influence of the Holy Spirit rightly invites scrutiny. That caution is necessary and healthy. Any claim to speak for God must be tested against the Scriptures given through the Lord and his apostles. A faithful teaching voice does not ask believers to abandon discernment, but to exercise it carefully and humbly. We serve the church best when we encourage believers to weigh all things in the light of God’s Word. For example, Scripture says that all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23) and that the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). If someone claims that all are saved as they are, that there is no sin, and that all will enjoy heaven regardless of what we do or believe, we should gently but soberly ask: can such a message truly come from God?

I would hope the answer is no, and yet this is not always how such things are received. Itching ears often look for confirmation of what has already been accepted as true. There are growing so-called Christian churches that openly teach a gospel of universalism or speak of the Lord Jesus as though he were merely a good philosopher. Some have even gone as far as to excuse certain sins while strongly condemning others they particularly oppose. It is a kind of “Select-o-Christianity,” if I may call it that. This should not make us proud or combative, but grieved and prayerful, because it reflects not a humble submission to the whole counsel of God, but a selective obedience shaped by preference. Firm lines have now been drawn that leave little room for patient conversation. The divide has grown so wide that many believers now relate to one another with suspicion rather than charity. I have long regarded this mindset as part of the beginning of end-time conditions, though I know that it is not a welcome subject and is often heard as burdensome rather than helpful.

My Personal Dilemma and My Cross

I write this as one who is disheartened and growing weary. I feel deeply the spiritual burden of what I believe is coming. Over the years, I have authored many articles and messages identifying what has been foretold and what still lies ahead. I do not claim to be an inspired prophet receiving original revelations from the Lord. What I am trying to say comes from the prophecies already given in Scripture—from the prophets of old, from the Lord himself, and from his apostles. Even so, I often find that some of the strongest resistance comes not from outside the faith but from within the household of faith. Even within my own family, I have learned to speak carefully about these matters because they stir strong emotions. As a writer, I also know what it is to speak to small numbers and to feel the loneliness that can come with that. Still, I share these concerns not to burden believers unnecessarily, but to help call them to sober faith, patient endurance, and careful attention to the Word of God.

I work hard to resist the flesh and the temptation to measure faithfulness by numbers, because I know this message is not mine; it is the Lord’s, and I am only a voice he may choose to use. I say “may” because I know my own weaknesses. Likewise, I have a strong will, and there are times when my ego is wounded and I feel the urge to defend myself. When that happens, the Spirit is faithful to warn me, sometimes in the moment and sometimes shortly afterward, and I am humbled by it. Anyone who would speak for God must be careful not to become quarrelsome or to stir up needless discord (2 Timothy 2:14-24; Titus 3:2-9; Proverbs 17:14). If this message is to do any good, it must be carried in a spirit of humility, repentance, and concern for the souls of others.

My burden is that I feel compelled to say that the end times are extremely near and that true believers should prepare their hearts, because their faith will be tested. I do not see a path by which what is coming can simply be avoided—no sudden cultural rescue, no sweeping mass awakening that removes the need for endurance. The path ahead, as I understand it, goes through tribulation rather than around it. I realize this is a difficult word to receive, and I understand why many resist it. History has taught nations and peoples to expect that every crisis eventually settles and that life returns to normal. Many in the churches have absorbed that same expectation. Yet the apostle Peter warned of these days in 2 Peter 3:1-7. Many will question and dispute those who say the end has drawn near. After so many failed or careless claims, it is understandable that people hesitate. Still, that hesitation should lead us to sober discernment, not spiritual sleep. The pastoral task, then, is not to stir panic but to help believers prepare their hearts through prayer, holiness, and steadfast trust in Christ.

Even so, I feel compelled to say that this time is different. Changes are coming that will not be restrained forever; the familiar cycles of sin, war, conquest, and temporary recovery are drawing to a close. God’s patience with humanity is not endless, and a time of reckoning will come. For that reason, church pulpits should not merely soothe people with platitudes, assurances that all is well, or teachings that reduce faith to prosperity. They should also prepare the people of God with truth, sobriety, hope, and obedience. The faithful should not be left sleeping under the assumption that all will go well simply because it always has before. Those who see the storm coming should speak—not harshly, not proudly, but faithfully, with the aim of helping the church remain awake, repentant, and ready.

Foreshadowing

The rift growing within American society does not appear likely to be healed by ordinary means. I could say more on this, but that would require another writing. Even so, I believe the days may be coming when writing openly about such matters becomes far more difficult. Even now, care must be taken with the words one uses, and that freedom may become more restricted in the near future. Behind these developments are forces greater than human persuasion alone. Scripture teaches us to recognize that spiritual conflict stands behind much of what unfolds in the world. In that light, the enemy of humanity is pressing hard in these days to corrupt, test, and prepare the ground for judgment before God’s wrath is revealed. This should move believers not toward fear-driven reaction, but toward watchfulness, prayer, and steadiness of heart.

The call, then, is to be watchful, because events will continue to unfold in ways that make these concerns harder to dismiss. When I think about America and the image it has come to believe about itself, I see a nation that has slowly helped build the very prison in which it now feels trapped. We should be willing to ask tough questions about how this has happened. How did the nation allow itself to become so confined within a two-party political system? And why, as both parties strengthened barriers around their power, did so many fail to see how dangerous that path could become? These questions are not merely political for me; they are part of learning how to discern the times wisely and without illusion.

The rift between the political ideologies of both parties now appears deeply entrenched. Those who champion liberty and freedom to choose are in profound conflict with those who believe that abortion, women’s rights, and fluid sexuality stand in direct opposition to God’s will. Religious convictions are not easily negotiated, and for that reason many conservative Christians believe they cannot support liberal democracy and those who champion it. In practical terms, this leaves many believers feeling as though they have no faithful political home. Some conclude that meaningful change would require a broad withdrawal of believers from political involvement altogether. Otherwise, many feel compelled to support only one political direction, despite the serious faults and moral failures they also see within it. This is part of why the struggle has become so severe and why opportunists find it easy to inflame each side. At present, there seem to be few other paths to power in America. In such a moment, believers need careful teaching so that political alarm does not overtake spiritual clarity, and so that loyalty to Christ remains higher than loyalty to any earthly camp.

Because America is so deeply divided, the future of the nation feels uncertain to many, even if its direction is not entirely unpredictable. Scripture has long taught that societies in rebellion do not remain stable forever. The great challenge has always been rightly discerning which prophecies belong to which times. For the unspiritual and unbelieving, such understanding has always been difficult. But for the true believer and Spirit-filled follower, there should be an increasing uneasiness with false comfort as moral decay accelerates and societies continue to deteriorate. That uneasiness, if received rightly, can become a call to prayer, discernment, steadfastness, and a renewed commitment to walk closely with the Lord.

Conclusion

I am getting older, my heart is heavy, and I do grow weary. I know my messages can sound discouraging in a time when troubling news already comes like a flood and produces desperation, fatigue, and entrenchment. Sides are being taken; many are afraid, while others choose not to see what is happening. Yet a day is coming—unlike any day before it or any day after it—when those who are alive at that time will awaken and realize that the world has changed completely and that there will be no returning to what we once called normal. For a short while, a new normal will arise, and the web of deceit will tighten around those who continue to resist or distort the words of Almighty God and his beloved Lord Jesus. For that reason, my desire is not simply to warn, but to care for the church by urging believers to remain sober, prayerful, teachable, and steadfast in Christ.

This will indeed call for the faith, endurance, and steady hope of the saints and for hearts that are anchored in Christ.

Is the American Church Losing the Battle?

Introduction

Week after week, the media reports news suggesting that the Christian Church in America is either in retreat or advancing—losing members in some places and gaining them in others. These statistics are often broken down by denominational preference. The Catholic Church, for example, is seeing an increase in youth attending its services. Others, shaped by ideological commitments, are either joining or leaving the churches that once felt like home to them. This is especially evident among White Conservative Evangelicals in these deeply divisive political times. For believers, it can be discouraging to watch these changes within the churches displayed so publicly in both mainstream and niche media. It naturally leads us to ask why this is happening and whether the gospel itself is somehow retreating.

Losing and Winning

As Americans, we often carry a deep instinct about winning and losing. We want to prevail, and from an early age we are taught to avoid anything that looks like defeat. Yet the kingdom of God does not follow the same logic. What appears to be loss can, in the hands of God, become victory. During his earthly ministry, Jesus began with signs and wonders, a growing following, and increasing recognition. Yet about three years into that ministry, when many in Jerusalem and the surrounding countryside were ready to claim him as king, he resisted that effort. Instead, he openly confronted religious authority, exposing hypocrisy and false teaching. By worldly standards, this was not the strategy of someone trying to secure a visible victory. Jesus seemed only a step away from being crowned King of the Jews.

Even Jesus’ closest followers struggled to understand this path. To them, it must have seemed that he was embracing a losing course, one that would surely lead to death if he continued. And that is what happened—Jesus was crucified by the Romans under the pressure of the Jewish religious leadership. From every outward perspective, it looked as though all was lost: his ministry appeared broken, his disciples were scattered, and the one Jesus had called “the Rock” denied him three times in public. Had the story ended there, it would have seemed over. He would have appeared to be just one more among the many false messianic figures of that era who were captured and killed.

But thanks be to God, that was not the end of the story. Total failure was, in truth, complete victory. The gospel is the announcement of that victory: a spiritual triumph over the power of Satan, opening the way for humanity to be reconciled to God.

Many Christians know this story well and can point to it in Scripture. Yet sometimes our testimony lacks the depth and tenderness that help others truly hear it. One reason is that, from the world’s point of view, the story of Jesus still looks like a story of failure. The cross is a harsh and humiliating image, the brutal execution of one the world considered to have little worth. Even Pontius Pilate saw nothing in him worthy of prosecution or death—and yet Jesus was handed over all the same.

Believers often live within a tension that does not fit the American longing for visible victory. The Jesus of Scripture does not conform to the cultural image of a winner. To many, he appears too gentle, too humble, too willing to suffer. Some within the church have tried to reshape his image into something more forceful, more culturally admired, more aligned with the idea that power proves what is right. Even in our present political moment, many are building upon this reimagined Jesus rather than the Christ revealed in Scripture.

When Truth and Ideology Collide

When a society is built upon a unifying vision that shapes its identity and purpose, that vision can harden over time into something that resists correction. In many ways, America finds itself in such a place. Within that kind of environment, the truth and image of Christ are often pressured to adjust themselves so they will remain acceptable within social and political expectations. The gospel that should confront and transform us can instead be reshaped to reflect our own ideology. When this happens, truth grows weak in public life. Those who adapt their message to fit the culture may appear successful, while truth itself becomes fluid, compromised, and difficult to recognize. Paul warned of this condition in 2 Timothy 3:5, “Having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power.” ESV

From the very beginning of the church and its calling to spread the gospel and advance the kingdom of God throughout the world, Scripture warned that even the church itself would face compromise. Growth in numbers alone would not guarantee faithfulness. False believers would enter in, draw influence away from those who remained true, and create imitations that carried the name of Christ while reflecting other loyalties. Again, Paul speaks to this in 1 Timothy 4:1, “Now the Spirit expressively says that in the later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons.” ESV

What is striking is that the Holy Spirit was already moving Paul, along with other teachers and prophets in the early churches, to warn God’s people about what was to come. Their ministry included not only encouragement, but loving caution. A future time would come when the faith would be burdened by compromise, and the church would struggle against rising ideologies and customs shaped by those opposed to God. Even so, this warning was never meant to produce despair. Jesus also declared that the gospel would be proclaimed throughout the entire world before the end would come.

The path by which the gospel has spread throughout the world has been long and often difficult. It moved through spoken testimony, the rise of the printing press, the translation of Bibles into the language of ordinary people, the development of modern technologies, and now the reach of a globally connected internet. Along the way, the gospel has traveled beside many competing messages and conflicting opinions. Different Bible translations and editions have raised questions for many, and some have suggested that only those trained in Hebrew and ancient Greek can faithfully handle Scripture for others. Again and again, barriers have been placed before unbelievers, as though special qualifications were needed before a person could hear, understand, or respond to the good news.

Like an unseen contest of move and countermove, spiritual powers and human agents have shifted strategies in an effort to hinder, distort, or redirect the truth. And yet the gospel has continued to advance. It has now reached a point where, in one form or another, it can be found throughout the world, even in places where fear, persecution, and the threat of death still surround those who preach, read, or teach it. Even under such pressure, many continue faithfully.

Tactical Advantage

The time is serious. The gospel has been made widely available, and the churches in many places seem to be in retreat—not merely in numbers, but in depth of devotion to Jesus and his message. Even so, this should lead us not to panic, but to sober faithfulness. Jesus told his disciples in Matthew 24:14, “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” ESV

This means that the gospel message stands as the standard by which the world will be judged. The foundation for that judgment is being laid even now, and when the time is fulfilled, the Lord himself will act to bring the reign of sin and evil to an end. By the sword from his mouth—the Words of God—he will overcome all who resist and reject him.

Conclusion

The American understanding of victory does not fully apply within the spiritual kingdom, and the advance of the gospel has not been defeated by the failures of churches. None of this has taken God by surprise. One truth that remains throughout the story is the limited wisdom of Satan and those who follow him. He seeks total victory, yet his ambition itself becomes the occasion for God’s triumph. As in a grandmaster chess match, the stronger player may allow an opponent to feel secure for a moment, only for that apparent advantage to become the very path to defeat.

Scripture presents many examples of Satan’s efforts to corrupt, deceive, and destroy. He sought to contaminate the bloodline of Israel with the Nephilim. He worked to sow doubt among the Israelites in the wilderness of Sinai. He tempted Israel with the false gods and idols of neighboring peoples. He led them into captivity and saw their temple destroyed. He even stirred events that led the Jews and Romans to seek the death of the true Messiah on a cross. Later, the second temple fell, the remnant was scattered, and God’s people were pursued across the world.

The list of these assaults extends far beyond what I can include here, and yet every apparent victory has slipped from his hands. We may now be at the stage of “check,” with Satan running out of moves. This helps explain the increase of wrath and the blindness, fear, and rage among those who follow him. Yes, the church is weakening in many places, and lawlessness is increasing. But the people of God need not lose heart. Soon, the Man of Lawlessness will step onto the stage as Satan’s final move—and then comes “checkmate.” The struggle will end, and the saints, the holy ones of God, will go home.

In the end, this reflection reminds us that the church must not measure faithfulness by worldly definitions of success, but by steadfast devotion to Christ and his gospel. Though the times are troubling and compromise is real, the Lord remains sovereign, his Word continues to advance, and his purposes cannot fail. Therefore, believers are called not to despair, but to endure with humility, discernment, and hope, trusting that the victory of Christ will be fully revealed in God’s perfect time.

Believers Will Have To Decide What Is Important!

Summary

The document warns that modern desire, materialism, and spiritual deception are preparing the world for end-times persecution. It argues that biblical prophecy points to a coming global ruler who will pressure believers to conform socially, politically, and economically. The main message is that Christians must be ready to endure hardship and remain faithful to Christ.

Introduction

Christianity is fragmented and divided over many things. The once city on the hill is now a crowded cosmopolitan accumulation of various beliefs and cultural design. Many are far from the simple faith given by our Lord Jesus and his disciples. Those of us in the Western churches are living in times of splendor and the pleasure of wants being fulfilled. One of the greatest pressures against modern marriage is the concept of variety and desire. If one becomes frustrated with the mate they initially chose, they can exchange them for another more desirable model, if not more desirable, more wealthy. The point is that we live in a material-focused society and we are taught to desire the best in life; to seek variety and achieve our dreams. This road is leading many to peril, and for believers it is time to learn what cleft lies ahead.

Human Desire and Wanting

The human heart is deceptive and wicked beyond knowing according to Jeremiah (Jeremiah 17:9). That is an unfortunate foundational statement, but within it is the understanding that we do not even know our own hearts. The same heart that dedicates love and intention in heavenly vows to honor and love until death, can become the same heart that becomes cold, callose, unfaithful, even to the point of hate – how can this be?

I my youth, grocery stores had limited options in brands and food sources were predictably shelved with needed supplies. Today, mega-stores shelve large varieties of items of the same sorts with a multitude of labels claiming unique features. Shopping for supplies can now become a full-day adventure; some become so enmeshed they take home far more than they need or thought they wanted. A brand-new automobile after leaving the dealer’s lot becomes yesterday’s model. A newer and shinier car catches the eye and the mind starts to plan an exchange. There are many more examples of this, but the bottom-line is that few are ever satisfied with what they have, and their eyes continue to search for a better model or brand.

The more availability the more the desire for variety, and the human heart knows no limit. For this reason, humanity is building up for an incredibly special test that will soon be revealed. The underlying causes of wars, disputes, and divisions are mostly based on desire to expand supply and wants that other is possess. The testing to come will challenge our desires and wants against the Kingdom of God!

Foreshadowing the Future

The apostle Paul provides one of the most stark warning of the fate of humanity in 2 Timothy 3: 1-7. The description provides a glimpse of the growing callousness that will prepare the scene for the coming Man of Lawlessness Paul described in 2 Thessalonians 2: 1-12. As is my practice, I contrast these verses with Jesus’ words in Mtthew 24: 5-14; the Holy Spirit has repeatedly warned how humanity will become as time passes.

I am very aware some claim that all these warnings were fulfilled in the fall of Jerusalem in 70 C.E. Indeed, I do agree the process of the degrading does cover those events, but many of these rising and fallings have continued to occur over many generations. Yet, the Spirit continues to warn as some believers are starting to realize that it is not over. There are things about the current generation that never existed before in history. Humanity now has worldwide implications and technology expands upon these capacities far beyond an ancient Babylon or Rome could ever imagine. It is not that the nature of humanity itself has altered as much as the scale of the implications. It is the scale of the changes that bring forth Jesus’ statement in Matthew 24: 13-14, “But the one who endures to the end will be saved. And the gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”

These very words eliminates any thought of a completion in 70 C.E., as no mass communications that could send the gospel globally existed prior to modern times. It is only now that such capabilities exist. And when a global gospel becomes available and sent among the nations – then the end will come.

When we combine the messages in 2 Timothy 3:1-7; 2Thessalonians 2: 1-12; and Matthew 24: 5-14, a picture evolves that moves over time – building and growing as knowledge increased and populations spread over the earth. A planet with over 8 Billion people on a planet with limited resources; and an unquenchable thrust for more and more! These forces will deplete global resource availability which is turn will increase conflict and larger scale wars in competition for those resources. In this type of environment, the level of lawlessness will increase to such a level that global unrest, instability, and chaos results – a fertile environment for the rise of a ruthless global ruler! Again, for a global ruler to take control, his reach must be able to impact the entire world.

The Testing of the Saints by the Global Ruler of Lawlessness

Up to this point, I have built background on what the last book in scripture – the Revelation of Saint John. Many see Revelations as allegorical with no potential to make sense of it. This seems reasonable, until you come to understand the book was not written for the generation in which it was written. The book was aimed to a later generation that would come (Revelation 1:1), and the only book that comes with a blessing (Revelation 1:3); in effect, there is great value in reading and engaging the Holy Spirit that the Lord has sent to all true believers to assist them in their understanding – but without the Spirit, and the right timing for the generation that writing was aimed towards, it remained a riddle across the span of time.

A prime reason for this was that developments were not to the point where the revelations could make any sense. First and second century believers had little hope understanding as their worldview and conditions only allowed a small hint of what was contained in the book. Mush as Gabriel told Daniel near the end of his book of revelations that he was the close up the books until a time near the end when it will make more sense and become available to understand (Daniel 12: 8-10). All of this takes us to focus careful on the words written in Revelation 13: 1-18, a passage of scripture that ends with a call for wisdom to understand.

In the verses, we see the rising out of the sea, a great beast. The sea may represent chaos, rolling conflicting currents as well as a literal sea. The beast is seen spiritually with many attributes related to animals of prey, and the beast was given the authority and power of the great dragon, the biblical serpent – the accuser and killer of humanity, the devil himself. This creature is said to suffer a mortal wound, but survives and in doing so, he convinces those susceptible to his discerptions to start to believe he is an irresistible god.

The mortal wound is the turning point. We do not know the status of the man-beast prior to that point. Was he an aspiring politician, a diplomat, or world figure? What we know is that whatever his rise to power was, it was the event of the wound that turned the tides in his favor.

Questions may arise if the man-beast actually suffered a real mortal wound and recovered – could satan actually miraculously heal a man approaching death? We have no biblical insights on if such power was or is available to the satan. He is a killer, and his rule is death – there are no indications he can create life. In the past, this would be seen as a requirement for the passage to be fulfilled; but that is not necessarily so today. We have mass media, Artificial Intelligence, and video programs that can easily mimic life itself. More important, these images can reach every single person (or soon will be) on the entire planet. The Man of Lawlessness does not have to actually suffer a fatal wound – but only look like he did!

I say this as it seems convenient that a second beast is revealed that serves as the prophet or speaker for the wounded first beast that is now represented as an “image.” The image of the beast serves as proof of the recovery of the first beast – that in reality, he is the true power. The second beast is his spokesperson and enforces the rules of the first beast. The prophetic-beast can summon fire to come down from the skies. Much of this would seem like magic or fanciful supernatural in days gone by – but not today. Today all of this can easily be accomplished using technology!

The difficult verses, 6-18 of Revelation 13 are the most important for believers. The strength and power of the saints is given over to the beast. He is given for a short while the ability to make war against believers! He blasphemes the name of God and can conquer through death or imprisonment the faithful people of God. The message calls for endurance and faith to live through these trials with the understanding that some will die, some will be jailed, and some driven into exile. These words so parallels those in Daniel 11: 32-36; 12: 4-10, and other biblical scriptures as to point to the same periods in time. This does not deny that smaller and periodic episodes of such actions have occurred across time as the apostle John indicated that many antichrist-like characters have appear across the ages (1 John 2:18). However, there still is ahead the cumulative power of Satan’s little season and testing of w world where the gospel message has and is available to all.

The Critical Test

Now, we in the Western world are about to face a defining moment. The most powerful and financially interconnected kingdom on the entire earth is dismantling and growing more divided daily. Jesus told us in scripture quite clearly that a kingdom (or nation) divided against itself cannot stand (Mathhew 12:25, Mark 3:24; Luke 11:17). Those who genuinely believe and trust the words of our Lord should understand what this means for us here in a divided nation. There is absolutely no good endgame as we rapidly go down this path until the return of the savior. We depend that things are as our Lord intends; and while that may be difficult, there very well may not be any means to change the course of our fate.

As a child, I loved the television series Star Trek! Many social messages were contained within the framework of Gene Roddenberry’s classic. One episode titled, “The Tholian Web” comes to mind as a good description of the times we now live in. A web of deceit and advancing technology is being woven around us and is hidden behind subterfuge, red herring events, and outright lies. Once the web is complete, there will be no means of escape. It will be conform…or become disassociated or die!

Revelation 13 describes the process in which this will occur. The rise of religious authoritarianism; a highly publicized incident that turns the totalitarian leader into a spiritual hero, then a rising god! One that cannot be opposed without serious and mortal risk. As the authority given this leader is from Satan himself, and the permissive will of God, he will not be successfully opposed, no matter the strategies used. His prophet/strong arm will insist on laws that require absolute loyalty and as a sign, those pledging such loyalty will be marked – a type of branding that makes these followers legitimate citizens of the evolving world empire.

There has never been a global empire, as most of the world’s surface was not even discovered during the rise and fall of the biblical empires like Assyria, Babylon, Greece, or Rome – the great statue of Daniel described in chapter 2. The feet of iron and clay, which many think describes Rome, is not an indicator of the “spiritual” Rome described. The mixed clay and iron symbolizes a confederation of kingdoms working together but fragmented in their alliances. Whereas the original Rome was a kingdom of Iron and unbreakable for a period of time; the final Rome is not a full empire, but a woven group of nations symbolized as composed of ten kings, and the antichrist-beast rules over them.

The final Rome will be a global power extending it is reach across the world. However, this does not mean a single complete authoritarian kingdom, as much as the influence of a world power leader that has tentacles or extensions within other nations and in effect -has influence over them all. Daniel provides a vision or “mini-Revelation” summary in chapter 7 knowing in the end, the final kingdom will be possessed by the saints -but util then, Daniel 7:23-28 foretells the trampling down of the power of the saints, and that the final kingdom will not be like any kingdom that preceded it. This is a different monstrosity unlike any age before or ever will be again. Spiritually, it is Rome that was, was not, and Rome to come.

Need for Faith and Endurance of the Saints

The final testing that comes will be social-economic in nature. Revelation 13: 14-17 is the focal point of this writing. We have a living image if the beast-man, a false prophet spokesperson that leads the nations in worship of the beast-image. Those caught failing to do so when ordered are killed. All followers are marked and given citizenship rights to own, sell, earn currency (credit), to hold any positions of status in the authoritarian system under the beast. This will become the ultimate test of faith and endurance.

Each individual living under this system is given a choice – accept the new identification, and live or reject the identification and be exiled, cast off as a non-citizen with no property, currency, authority, or status. Forcefully exiled or killed if any attempt to remain without the mark.

I my spirit, I see this occurring in stages, those who are wise wake-up from the mass delusions being broadcast through corrupted mass-media and the many web-liked platforms people consume. While this is occurring, the Tholian Web continues to be woven while eyes are turned against one another and everything but the truth. This is to delay any possibilities of cooperation in opposition of the web being assembled around us.

The other pieces that fall in place are heightened security measures, strong need for registrations and citification including an extremely large database where everyone is listed including their worth, assets, and who they affiliate with. This extremely large database will be autonomous and provide a policing effect that identifies unloyal actions. There will no longer be a Constitutional First Amendment Right as global security needs will forbid it.

For believers, those that are non-truly resolute and false, they will readily join the authoritarian movement. Some see it as an act of faith. Some will encourage the rise of the beast and freely give their worship and devotion claiming the beast as a Messager from God. Later, they will claim the beast is God! This mass exodus of the many within the Christian churches will be alarming for those that remain loyal to Jesus, and do not abandon their faith. Before this time, however, some of the true believers will see through the mass deception that is occurring and become active seeking to speak out and expose the illusion. I believe these will become those Revelation 13:7-10 describes.

Conclusion

There is coming a time soon, when everything we hold dear as believers, citizens, and patriots will be placed on the alter of sacrifice. Everything may be lost, including out lives. As a people who have enjoyed much and hold the privilege of living in a land of plenty, this drastic change will come as a major shock. All the more if it comes completely by surprise – which it should not! Jesus and his apostles warned us; even the prophets of old warned of how the end of the age would occur.

The question that still remains is are were sure that we are now in the final days? For those asleep and under the current delusion – no. They will not be brought to accept that unless their eyes open. Some are starting to open their eyes and are beginning to see the delusions that have caught many unaware. If what I say in this writing is true, it will soon begin to speed up as time is short for the little season of Satan. I genuinely believe the year 2026, which is approaching the halfway point, will turn out to be a crucial turning point and the end of the year, we will find out of our Tholian web gas been completed.

If not, then many more eyes must open and open really soon to stop the web’s completion. Failing this, it is certain we are indeed in the last years of peace and safety.

Confusion, Discord, and Division

Summary

This document explores the ongoing challenges of confusion, discord, and division among believers, drawing parallels to biblical parables and early church struggles. It reflects on how differences in understanding, spiritual interpretation, and tradition often lead to conflict within the church, suggesting that such discord may serve a divine purpose in distinguishing genuine faith. The importance of humility and openness to new insight is emphasized, while historical examples, such as the Judaizers, illustrate how old traditions can hinder spiritual growth and unity. The message underscores that true righteousness is found in a heart transformed by Christ, not mere adherence to religious rules.

Introduction

Let us face it: believers in Christ face a world of constant conflict, discord, and disagreement. This can be especially distressing within the family of God—the church. There is no end to opinions, even when the message seems straightforward. The Bible is given to us for guidance and for equipping us for all good works (2 Timothy 3:16-17), but few can agree on what is written, whether the Bible we use is written correctly, or if the Bible we read has lost many of its most important letters and passages. Some dismiss the Bible altogether, insisting that they receive direct spiritual enlightenment. Some simply deconstruct aspects of the Bible that suit their interests. How and why have matters of faith gotten so out of control? Was this a part of God’s plan for the church?

Expanding the Theme

I have written in part on these questions in a meditation titled, A New Insight For The Times . In that writing, I came to sense that the answer was indeed—yes! This was all part of God’s plan soon after the church was commissioned. This is a hard insight for many reasons, but I saw the goal of discord within the churches—the beginning of the separation of the wheat and the tares as described in Matthew 13:1-28. Here, Jesus provides different perspectives on the process of sowing the word of God—the gospel. He compares different soils in the first parable and how the heart of a person can block the seed from taking root, or the seed, after taking root, is snatched away by an enemy. His second parable describes the process of a farmer who planted good seed (the gospel), but an enemy again snuck in and planted false seeds that grew into tears—look-alike plants that appear as wheat but have no value.

Jesus was alluding to what was going to happen soon after the seeds of the gospel were planted. This was foreshadowing things to come. He made the parable clearer to his disciples but left the crowd in ignorance. In this, he demonstrated how the seed is hidden from some and only creates confusion and bickering, while others are given the truth and can understand it as their hearts are open. What is meant by “open” is that the heart has to be receptive to truth. If not, the closed heart will stumble over the true message and create one of its own makings. Each heart is closed or receptive in unusual ways, including what motivates us, our traditions, what seems right in our own eyes, and even what we can gain from the message. These hidden desires can block the truth and substitute it with lies of various sorts, deviating from the central message of Christ.

The Grace of Humility

A humble heart is indeed a gift of great worth in the Kingdom of God. To be humble is, first, to understand what we do not know and to be open to learning. To remove the old yeast or leaven and replace it with new leaven to grow new knowledge (1 Corinthians 5:7). That, unfortunately, is an extremely complicated process—especially for the proud and self-assured. The more we think we know, the less we are able to learn. A full vessel cannot receive any more water as it overflows, receiving nothing new.

Examples of Old Leven Crowding Out the New

In the days of the apostle Paul, a major rift that was occurring in the early church was a group known as Judaizers. This group went around preaching that all Gentiles must convert to Judaism first in order to become a follower of Christ. No matter how hard Paul struggled against such teachings, the new believers were assaulted by the Judaizers forcing compliance to the Laws of Moses, including circumcision, dedication to Torah, and all the various rituals of the Jews. The New Testament Book of Galatians was written in part to combat such teachings via a letter Paul wrote to a church he had planted.

Even today, we have those that continue the work of the Judaizers attempt to enforce Torah as a practice on all believers. Paul’s struggle was against those that still desired an outward works-based form of righteousness when Christ came to in fact – fulfill the Torah within the hearts of his followers through obedience to the Holy Spirit. Where righteousness was a fruit or byproduct of the works of the Spirit in the believer and not following rules and regulations. Some today still missed the message that outward efforts for righteousness by symbols and series of “dos and don’ts” never pleased God – if it had, Jesus would never have come. One can say that the Torah and works of the Law are fulfilled in the righteousness that comes out of a heart that is truly dedicated to Jesus, as his blood fills all voids as to assure his followers are righteous before his Father, our God in heaven.

One can indeed share this and preach it over and over again, and it will still be ignored. Those who hold dear to their views and practices are not open to anything else. This is true of many wings of the Christian churches. Consider that both Jesus and Paul warned not to predict the date and times of the Lord’s return (Matthew 24:36; Acts 1:7; Mark 13:22, 31-32; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12), yet still many continue to make such predictions. Interesting that many that continue to do so are strict Torah followers as well.

I could go on as many developing doctrines have evolved with troubling implications. Another is a concept called ridged or hard Preterist. The most ridged version insists all prophesies in Scripture have been fulfilled – there are none or nothing yet to come. In effect, Christ has already returned to restore the covenant to Israel, the resurrection of the dead is not a physical resurrection as scripture teaches, but a resurrection of covenant belief of those that were lost to the covenant when Israel was scattered back in 70 C.E. and the temple was defiled and abandoned.

The conclusion with that perspective is that no future resurrection, no Kingdom of God outside those that are now returned to live under the first covenant of God. No immortality, no heaven, just ongoing day-to-day existence. Now, I admit that is an extremely ridged version or the preterist perspective, there are milder versions that do allow for resurrection of the dead and return of Jesus, but many still profess all scriptural prophesies have been fulfilled up to Revelation, chapter 20. There are many issues with that view. For one, it would imply that the seven trumpets have already sounded, and the seven bowls of wrath have already been poured out upon the earth (Revelation 16; 1-21), it would also imply that the Wrath of God to poured out on the earth has already occurred as described in Revelation 15:1; Revelation 11: 15-19).

Taking a closer look at Revelation 11: 15-19 noteworthy events are described that fit well with the very words of the apostle Paul.

“Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.” And the twenty-four elders who sit in their thrones before God fell on their faces and worshiped God saying, “We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, who is and who was, for you have taken your great power and begun to reign. The nations raged, but your wrath came and the time for the dead to be judged, and for rewarding your servants, the prophets, and saints, and those who fear your name, both small and great and for destroying the destroyers of the earth.”

This display was followed by the opening of God’s temple in heaven and the revealing of the covenant followed by lightning, earthquakes, peals of thunder and heavy hail. Consider the fact Paul predicted the rising of thee dead upon the sound of the last trumpet (1 Corinthians 15:52), the seventh trumpet also releases the Wrath of God in the form of bowls as described in Revelation 16: 1-2. The descriptions of the events as they unfold on the earth are devastating which results in the Great Supper of God described in Revelation 19: 11 – 21. It seems inconceivable to describe such events within the confines of 70 C.E. unless the understanding is that all Revelation is allegorical imagery and no literal application.

I do understand this view, as I was raised up in a church that held that position. We ignored Revelation and summarized it as “Christ wins in the end,” no further explanation.

Conclusion

I accept that some variances have no implications on salvation or walking in faith with Jesus. Many are nuances that some simply do not desire to understand and are content with just the plain simple truth of the gospel. Others, like me, attempt to delve into the deeper mysteries and to understand some of the deeper things of God. Some are called to know more, but not everyone.

However, there are lines that cannot be crossed. Denying that Jesus, as the Son of God did not come in the flesh is one of those lines. Saying Jesus was not the Son of God, and just a man with a good philosophy is another. It gets difficult when believers attempt to walk both in the Law and profess faith in Jesus as that is serving two masters’ where the old Leven is mixed with the New. Deconstructing the Bible message as history teaches Thomas Jefferson is said to have done is another line. This is taking liberties where God did not grant permission and as such, it is sin.

Some will continue to drink the milk of the gospel and are content to do so while others will want to get the solid food as to grow in faith and knowledge of the Lord. Some will be content to not thrive or grow, while others will grow to become teachers themselves.

We must all come to understand that the Satan himself decided to take his own path to place his throne above the throne of God. Taking one’s own path and not God’s is rebellion and missing the mark of God’s holiness. There can be only one path, and that path is through Jesus, as no one can come to God, the Father accept through him.

I leave you with this warning, avoid the confusion and the babel. There is not benefit in getting involved with or arguing against.

A Reveal of What Is Occurring Now for Believers

Summary

This document explores the current challenges facing believers by drawing parallels to the biblical account of Elijah and the concept of a faithful remnant preserved by God. It considers the skepticism toward claims of spiritual revelation, reflects on church history and the fragmentation within Christianity, and asserts that God continues to shield and preserve His true followers—even when they are hidden or dormant—amid widespread compromise and confusion.

Introduction

I understand the skepticism of those who hear—or read—claims of prophecy or revelation from the Holy Spirit. That caution is wise. Still, I have gained a clearer understanding of what is occurring in our chaotic world and what the Lord may be doing unseen. I will use Scripture and history to convey that clarity. This insight surprised me, and I believe it will surprise the reader as well.

A Mystery in How God Shields His People

In 1 Kings 19, we read of Elijah fleeing for his life from Jezebel, the wife of Ahab, king of the northern ten tribes of Israel. There are many significant moments in this account, but I will focus on verses 10–18. Elijah claims he is the only one left in Israel with zeal for the Lord, and he says Jezebel seeks to kill him. In effect, he insists no one remains in all Israel who loves the Lord—everyone has abandoned God to serve Baal, the god whom Jezebel serves as priestess. Much is said by the Lord to Elijah, but what matters here is verse 18, where the Lord says, “Yet I will leave seven thousand in Israel, all the knees that have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed his image.”

God corrects Elijah: he is wrong to assume all have abandoned Him. God Himself has preserved an elect remnant in Israel—people who do not worship Baal and have not surrendered to Jezebel’s control of the nation. Imagine the pressure of living in a compromised land where leaders enforce false worship. These seven thousand are not openly resistant; they are quiet, and not public in their faith either; they are dormant. Yet God counts them as His. Among them is young Elisha, a herdsman living a simple life, chosen by God to succeed Elijah as prophet to the northern tribes.

What Meaning Is Behind This?

Social disorder, compromised leaders, and global instability have raised tensions across the Western world, especially in America. A growing dread and despair hangs over the land. Many of us, as believers, are stymied by what is occurring and what may yet come.

Looking back at church history, we see in Acts and the epistles that the early church was Spirit-empowered—sharing life together and led by the Holy Spirit through direct inspiration given to apostles and prophets. This was normal. Yet history also shows that, within a brief time, ecclesiastical conflicts erupted. Leaders vying for influence moved toward excommunications and the exclusion of those who resisted their control. This worsened as Rome supported dominant bishops and enforced rigid orthodoxy—often sidelining spiritually vibrant believers in favor of rituals and icons that, for many, became substitutes for life in the Spirit. Over time, these orthodox churches fragmented, and new churches formed through reform. The splintering has continued ever since and now numbers in the tens of thousands. All claim to be right, yet few resemble the early church in spiritual vitality and shared charity.

I often wondered why the Holy Spirit seemed to have withdrawn from the churches—allowing those hungry for power to take control and fragment the church Jesus died for. I know that sounds like a bold judgment, but I could not see why the Christian faith would be degraded as it has been—and as it still is. Then, suddenly, I understood a mystery: God is protecting His elect!

Within the broad structure of Christianity are people who are not compromised—people who refuse false narratives and idol gods. They are not fooled by the sweeping deceptions that have overtaken, and continue to overtake, those driven by self-preservation and material gain. Yet these “elect” are mostly dormant, held in reserve until the time of awakening comes.

The book of Daniel offers insight into the times leading up to the end. It describes the final tyrant—one who will rule with power to break the saints of God and persecute the holy people (Daniel 8:24–26). How will this unfold? A moment is coming when dormant elect believers will rise (Daniel 11:32–36) and take a stand against a flattering leader who has enchanted many—those who do not hold to the covenant of Christ and who compromise themselves.

Applying this in Today’s World

For a time, it seemed the corrupt and compromised would succeed without resistance—overturning truth and recasting what is right as lies, subterfuge, and deceit in service of power and limitless wealth. For the first time in history, a new class is emerging into the trillionaire category. A halo of thorns is forming through surveillance technologies, forced registrations, birthright at a price, the denial of basic rights, and the rise of autocratic corruption. We are nearing the point where a leader shifts from elected representative to self-appointed king—and ascends to the ranks of a god. This transition is happening now, and many either accept it or fear it, yet refuse to interfere.

Yet some are breaking out of the spell. Eyes are opening. As in Daniel 11:33, “And the wise among the people shall make many understand, though for some days they shall stumble by sword and flame, by captivity and plunder.” We hear a similar call in Revelation 13:10, “If anyone is to be taken captive, to captivity he goes; if anyone is to be slain with the sword, with the sword must he be slain. Here is a call for the endurance and faith of the saints.”

Again, we hear the call for endurance as we move deeper into the Great Tribulation. Those who awaken will bear the responsibility to help others see clearly and to speak against the deception falling on the nation and the world. In that way, they will serve as God’s last witnesses before His coming wrath and judgment upon the wicked. Daniel 12:7 gives the timing: a three-and-one-half-year period (“time, times, and half a time”). During this time, the power of the saints who stand will be broken; then these things will end.

What Can We Conclude About the Times?

The hardest part is discerning the times and the events with accuracy. Before the current transformations in America, few would have believed the nation could be so easily overturned in its values and its sense of truth. History can be rewritten to serve a preferred narrative. Defense becomes war; attack becomes pillaging by the powerful; and might makes right. Past sins are hidden and denied, while those who reveal the truth are swiftly punished. It is a system that despises opposition and freedom of speech—and worse, a system that strips citizenship from those deemed unsuitable and casts them into the shadowlands of the disenfranchised.

So what age are we living in? To answer, we must discern the point when the Man of Lawlessness is revealed. That unveiling rides a wave of growing lawlessness, rising false prophets, and rebellion among those who once called themselves Christians—as foreshadowed in 2 Thessalonians 2:3–12 and 2 Timothy 3:1–5. Love will grow cold, as Jesus foretold in Matthew 24:9–13. Again, He warns that those who endure to the end will be saved.

We are moving in that direction—faster as time goes on. A shadow lies over our nation and the world. America is the most influential and wealthy nation on earth. As goes America, so goes the world. Its control and ability to move global markets is unmatched. It should be no mystery that corruption would take root and flourish here. Make no mistake: if Mystery Babylon, as described in Revelation 17 and 18, is a city or a nation, its location would be here.

Revelation 17:3 shows the great beast—the Antichrist, the Man of Lawlessness—carrying Mystery Babylon on his back, at least at first. The same beast betrays Babylon (Revelation 17:16–18) but notice Revelation 17:18: “And the woman that you saw is the great city that has dominion over the kings of the earth.” That is dominion over the most powerful nations on earth. Only one nation fits that image. Unless a seismic upheaval occurs and a new nation rises as the world’s number one power, America will remain that power. And if America does fall, it will be because a rising power crushed it to overthrow its dominion.

Identity of the Beast, the Man of Lawlessness

Scripture gives clear attributes of this beast of a man. Daniel, 2 Thessalonians, and Revelation each present an angle on his nature. He is both cunning and a flatterer—hypnotizing others with his will. His power does not come from himself, but from the great accuser and enemy of humanity: Satan, the dragon. He will wield an unusual influence that, to outsiders, will seem bewitching—as though people are under a spell.

Some believe he will come openly claiming to be God, but the shift is usually subtler. His character seeks dominion and constant elevation: leader, ruler, king, emperor, god—and finally, the Most High God Himself. This builds over time, but his ego and self-adoration will know no bounds. Those who flatter him are rewarded, and their praise only swells him further.

Another passage captures a further mystery. Revelation 17:8, 11 and Revelation 13:11–15 describe the beast as “it was and is not and is to come.” The phrase suggests a moment when he receives a fatal wound. He seems to die yet later appears restored and alive. That event seals his credibility as a god in the minds of those under his influence. We also see a second beast-like figure—the false prophet—who elevates the first beast’s image to god-level status.

Today, we cannot identify a leader who has been fatally wounded and appeared to return from the dead—at least not yet. Still, the times are perilous, and recent years have shown how quickly political violence can rise. Many pieces are in motion, pointing toward a moment that could place us close to the final three-and-one-half years—marked by awakened believers, bold speech, and growing persecution of those who speak out. At some point, a major event must shift the leadership dynamics. I am not claiming certainty about the current American leadership, but many prophetic conditions are aligning.

Conclusion

My thoughts have shifted. I now see the pandemonium within today’s Christian movement as, in part, a means of shielding true believers within a shell—within an insincere bubble—much as Israel’s faithful were once shielded. When God elects, those He has preserved will be revealed in time to stand and remain faithful, willing to oppose evil even to the point of death. Not all are fated for that outcome, but those who will shine like the stars in the heavens.

Making Clear What’s Coming!

Summary

This document addresses the topic of the great tribulation and the debate surrounding the pre-tribulation rapture theory. It highlights the confusion and judgment that can arise during times of global disorder, urging believers to seek discernment and resist easy escape narratives. The discussion references key biblical passages commonly used to defend the pre-tribulation rapture, such as 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 1 Corinthians 15:51-52, Revelation 3:10, John 14:1-3, and Daniel 9:24-27, while emphasizing the importance of preparing believers to stand firm in their faith.

Introduction

There are growing conversations on the subject of the great tribulation. Many are moving toward the camp of pre-tribulation rescue; others are busily denying the return of Jesus or predicting the coming of a rapture, including dates and times. There are flurries of conversation as global disorder increases. Some sense—and many are beginning to see—that perhaps the biblical warnings are true. However, such times of desperation lead to poor judgment and confusion. For the true believer, now is the time for calm and quiet discernment, and not to be misled by the teachings and thoughts of those who cling to this world age of despair.

I have written on the subject of the pre-tribulation rapture in other articles, both in Medium and Substack, to dispel the notion that Scripture guarantees rescue before the great tribulation begins. I continue to add to the discussion with the purpose of preparing true believers to stand firm and not seek an easy escape. This is inconsistent with the Scriptures and God’s purpose in refining the faith of the elect.

Main Sources Used to Defend the Pre-Tribulation Rapture Theory

In defense of the notion of a pre-tribulation rapture, the following passages of Scripture are often cited in support of that perspective:

· 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 – This passage is central to the pre-tribulation rapture view. It describes believers being “caught up… to meet the Lord in the air,” which proponents interpret as a distinct event that occurs before the great tribulation. (See: The Holy Bible, New Testament)

· 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 – Paul’s teaching about the “mystery” of believers being changed “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye” is frequently cited to argue for a sudden, pre-tribulation event. (See: The Holy Bible, New Testament)

· Revelation 3:10 – Jesus’ promise to the church in Philadelphia, “I will keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world,” is interpreted by pre-tribulationists as evidence that the church will be removed before the great tribulation. (See: The Holy Bible, New Testament)

• John 14:1-3 – Jesus’ assurance that He will “come again and receive you to Myself” is often cited as support for the rapture, distinct from His visible Second Coming. (See: The Holy Bible, New Testament)

• Daniel 9:24-27 – The prophecy of the “seventy weeks” is foundational for dispensationalist interpretations, which form the backbone of pre-tribulation rapture theology. This passage is used to distinguish between God’s plan for Israel and the church. (See: The Holy Bible, Old Testament)

Rightly Dividing the Words of Truth

Let’s start by admitting one common fact: There will be a biblical “catching up” to join Jesus as he descends to earth. Some call this catching up “being raptured.” The actual word rapture is not found in the Holy Bible. It is a term later created to describe being caught up.

The term “rapture” does not appear in the original Greek or Hebrew texts of the Bible. Its origin traces back to the Latin translation of 1 Thessalonians 4:17, where the phrase “caught up” is rendered as “rapiemur” from the verb “rapio,” meaning “to seize” or “to snatch.” The English word “rapture” was adopted by theologians to describe this event, and its use became prominent among Protestant religious groups in the 19th century, especially with the rise of dispensationalism and pre-tribulation rapture theology. The concept was popularized through the teachings of John Nelson Darby and further developed in works such as John F. Walvoord’s The Rapture Question and Tim LaHaye’s No Fear of the Storm.

By the late 1800s and early 1900s, the term “rapture” was widely used in evangelical circles, particularly in North America, to refer to the anticipated event of believers being taken up before the great tribulation. This terminology and doctrine were further disseminated through books, conferences, and eventually popular media, solidifying its place in modern Christian eschatology.

There isn’t a serious debate about use of the word rapture; while it is clearly not listed in Scripture, the question at issue is: when will it occur? If a believer simply reads each of the verses used in defense, one thing that should quickly become evident is that none of them specifically indicate an exact timeline. The verses indicate events that must occur before a rapture can occur, but they do not specify exactly when that will be.

“But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep (dead), that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those that have fallen asleep. For we declare to you by word of the Lord that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we, who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-17, ESV)

These verses were written to comfort the Thessalonians that their dead would rise again—that their dead loved ones would precede the final catching up of those who survive until the end. There is a clear connection between the trumpet of God and the shout of Jesus as he is descending to the earth. However, there is no mention of the great tribulation or any words foreshadowing God snatching up those remaining as a means to protect them from the great tribulation.

As far as the verses in Revelation 3:10, I have written extensively on that in another Medium article titled, The Cost and Benefit of Standing Firm. To summarize that writing, the church of Philadelphia that our Lord is addressing is in a state of tribulation and is nearly depleted in its strength to stand firm. They are in the throes of near defeat, and the Lord is encouraging them to hold on a little longer. To these he stated that they will avoid the testing that is coming on the whole earth. This is not a blanket ticket to the rapture of the entire church of those that claim belief, but rather for those who are thoroughly tested—even to death. It’s not an easy way out. For more detail, please read the linked article.

As far as 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 and John 14:1-3, these verses confirm that a catching up will occur, but neither address the tribulation to come or exactly when—other than indicating it will be at the end when the Lord returns.

Daniel 9:24-27 describes a timeline with occurrences that address the Jewish people until the very end of the age. Scholars debate the large gap that separates the 69 weeks and the 70^th week as the Christian age, or age of the Gentiles. Even so, there is no rapture mentioned or anything about being taken up. It abruptly ends with the antichrist rising on a current of abominations that are occurring and causing the ultimate abomination that desolates. We see here foreshadowing the terrible rebellious age to come described by Jesus in Matthew 24 (Olivet Discourse) and by Paul as the revealing of the man of lawlessness after the great falling away in 2 Thessalonians 2:1-14.

These passages converge on end-time events that must occur first—before any catching up occurs. And while they are meant to be encouraging, there is nothing in them that teaches avoidance of the great tribulation. A careful reading of Paul in 2 Thessalonians 2:1-14 makes it clear that the falling away and the revealing of the man of lawlessness come before the end and the return of Jesus.

“Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we ask you, brothers, not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed, either by a spirit or a spoken word, or a letter seeming to be from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction...” (2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, ESV)

I pause here to let the words above sink in. Paul is telling the Thessalonians to not be shaken or disturbed by chatter and opinions about the Lord’s return. Some have been claiming the return has already occurred—we see and hear this even now. Some think the biblical age ended in 70 CE after the destruction of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem. There are many varieties of end-time ideas, and as we see, it started in the very early days of the church.

Paul goes on to confirm that two events must occur first—before Jesus returns: the great falling away (those departing the faith and increasing demoralizing behaviors), and second, the revealing of the antichrist (the man of lawlessness, the beast in Revelation 13:1-18). So, we have confirmation that no rapture can occur until those two events take place. This, in effect, eliminates a pre-tribulation return of Jesus. It can only occur after these events—but still, the timing of the return is not described directly. The remainder of Paul’s testimony describes the man of lawlessness as the one that will oppose every so-called god, and in the very end will declare himself as God. This is the very theme picked up starting in Revelation, chapter 13 and beyond in more detail.

Why Do Some Misread God’s Words?

The reasons behind how people read and understand Scripture are very complicated. We see through a specific lens that reinforces our belief system, values, and hopes—a form of motivated reasoning that filters out, or adds, content to confirm what we want to believe. It’s like having an inner interpreter transcribing what we desire to know—not what is actually said. This is a major flaw among humanity and has resulted in thousands of splintered Christian churches over the ages.

The fact that humanity has this major vulnerability is why reading Scripture must be earnestly and prayerfully—not rushed or done under the influence of others. It’s a mistake to place confidence in any person, or in their teachings, alone. The believer must be vigilant and skeptical of anything written or heard, applying clear, independent evaluation. Like the Bereans in the book of Acts, we must validate what is said before accepting it.

Today, the churches and the world are on a fast track toward separation, divisions, opinions, and discord—much because of the different filters we use to see our environment and how we have been raised to believe. Influences, environment, and characteristics combine—along with background spiritual pressures—to sway our thoughts and create false narratives that are extremely hard to detect without firm discernment, a gift of God. Unspiritual people, even those called believers, will fall to falsehoods, lacking the spiritual eyes only God, the Holy Spirit, provides. It may seem simple—but it isn’t. It’s very dangerous, and for that reason, the great falling away will come. It is starting to happen at this very point in time. The Christian churches are in disarray, and truth is departing them; those that seek truth can be easy prey for the growing false prophets and teachers that are now scattered across the earth.

Conclusion

I can only hope this short study will give some clarity to prepare the saints for endurance, to face the coming great tribulation, and to stand firm. It will get very dangerous for the faithful as the delusions spread and right is flipped as wrong, creating the way of the Lawless One.

References:

• Walvoord, John F. The Rapture Question. Zondervan, 1979.

• Ice, Thomas & Demy, Timothy. The Rapture: Christianity’s Most Preposterous Belief. Kregel Publications, 1996.

• LaHaye, Tim. No Fear of the Storm: The Rapture: A Pre-Tribulation View. Multnomah, 1992.

• Ryrie, Charles C. Come Quickly, Lord Jesus: What You Need to Know About the Rapture. Harvest House Publishers, 1996.

A Perspective on Biblical Prophecy

Summary

This document argues that Jesus’ Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24 can be read in a layered, prophetic way that allows multiple interpretations to be simultaneously true: it speaks to near-term judgment events (including the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in 70 C.E.), to recurring “Day of the Lord” patterns seen throughout Scripture, and to an ultimate end-times fulfillment connected to Christ’s return.

Introduction

I have received significant feedback on a recent article on the Signs of Birth Pangs published in The Dove on Medium. There are a variety of understandings when it comes to Jesus’ discussion with His disciples on the Mount of Olives in Matthew 24. Some see Jesus as only addressing the future Roman destruction of the Temple and Jerusalem in 70 C.E. I have presented it as a discussion applicable to the end times. Some propose that the end times have been occurring since the ministry of Jesus and His disciples and continue to this very day. I first want to express that I do understand these differences, and I appreciate the perspectives. I go further to confess that all of these views are correct!

The nuances here are based on the question: How can all three understandings be correct? That, indeed, is a very pertinent and important question, and I base my response on the spiritual and difficult foundations of biblical prophecy.

Prophetic Framework

I mentioned in another Medium article on The Heretic the many references—just in the Minor Prophets—to the phrase The Day of the Lord. It is quite true that the Day of the Lord is used for different terminal or judgment-related events that occurred to ancient Israel, including their various fallings into captivity, being overtaken by their enemies, and being pillaged by foreign armies after God warned them of the consequences of continued disobedience under His covenant with Israel. These events were extremely destructive, including the complete loss of the northern ten tribes of Israel (called Ephraim) and the destruction of the Temple and Jerusalem, along with the loss of the entire structure of the covenant based on God’s law given by Moses. Those two events—the loss of Ephraim (the northern ten tribes) and the subsequent destruction of Jerusalem—sealed the fate of Israel as the Lord’s covenant bearers (Matthew 23:34–39), as their house was to be desolated. The reader is to understand that Jesus is describing the desolation in terms of the destruction of the Temple (Matthew 24:1–2); it is upon that very foundation that the disciples request to know the signs of His coming and the end of the age—two questions in one request.

Jesus is actually responding to both questions in His reply—the end of the age and the sign of His return. To answer this complex question, we must frame it in the time of the question. The age of Israel as the covenant bearer was still present, so Jesus addresses the sign of the end of that age. Matthew 24:4–13 starts with a general description of a Day of the Lord situation in development; the language can have meaning for the generation in His time and for generations to come (v. 13), as the commonalities include:

· The rise of false messiahs and false prophets

· Wars and rumors of wars

· Famines, earthquakes, and environmental upheaval

· Tribulation and persecution as people’s hearts grow cold

· A falling away from the faith by many

· Rising betrayals and His followers being hated by the nations

A Concise Overview of Scriptural References to End-Times Signs

This annotated summary presents key scriptural references for major prophetic signs described in the Bible, focusing on false messiahs and prophets, wars and rumors of wars, famines, earthquakes and environmental signs, tribulations and persecutions, a falling away from faith, and betrayals and hatred of believers.

1. False Messiahs and False Prophets

· Matthew 24:4–5, 11, 24 – Jesus warns that many will come in His name, claiming to be the Christ, and that false prophets will arise, performing signs to deceive even the elect, if possible.

· Mark 13:5–6, 22 – Parallel warnings about deception by false Christs and prophets.

· Luke 21:8 – Jesus cautions not to follow those who claim, “The time is near.”

· 1 John 2:18, 22; 4:1–3 – Many antichrists and false prophets have gone out into the world.

· 2 Peter 2:1 – False prophets and teachers will secretly introduce destructive heresies.

2. Wars and Rumors of Wars

· Matthew 24:6–7 – “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars… Nation will rise against nation.”

· Mark 13:7–8 – Similar warnings of wars and disturbances.

· Luke 21:9–10 – “When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened.”

· Revelation 6:3–4 – The second seal: a red horse, symbolizing war and peace being taken from the earth.

3. Famines, Earthquakes, and Environmental Signs

· Matthew 24:7 – “There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.”

· Mark 13:8 – “There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines.”

· Luke 21:11 – “There will be great earthquakes, famines, and pestilences… fearful events and great signs from heaven.”

· Revelation 6:5–8 – The third and fourth seals: famine, pestilence, and death over a fourth of the earth.

· Joel 2:30–31 – “I will show wonders in the heavens and on the earth: blood and fire and billows of smoke.”

4. Tribulations and Persecutions

Tribulation and persecution run as a continuous thread through Scripture—from the experience of Israel to the teachings of Jesus, to the exhortations of the apostles, to the visions of Revelation. These passages consistently frame suffering as both expected and spiritually formative for God’s people.

Tribulation and Persecution in the Teachings of Jesus

· Matthew 24:9–10 – “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name.”

· Matthew 5:10–12 – “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake… Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.”

· John 15:18–20 – “If the world hates you, know that it has hated Me before it hated you… If they persecuted Me, they would also persecute you.”

· John 16:33 – “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Tribulation and Persecution in Acts

· Acts 5:40–41 – The apostles rejoice after being beaten, “that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.”

· Acts 8:1–4 – A “great persecution” scatters the church, yet they preach the word everywhere they go.

· Acts 14:22 – “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.”

Tribulation and Persecution in Paul’s Letters

· Romans 5:3–4 – “We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character…”

· Romans 8:35–36 – “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution…?”

· 2 Corinthians 4:8–10 – “We are afflicted in every way but not crushed… always carrying in the body the death of Jesus.”

· 2 Corinthians 12:10 – “For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities.”

· 1 Thessalonians 3:3–4 – “You yourselves know that we are destined for this.”

· 2 Thessalonians 1:4–5 – The church’s endurance in persecutions is “evidence of the righteous judgment of God.”

· 2 Timothy 3:12 – “All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

Tribulation and Persecution in the General Epistles

· Hebrews 10:32–34 – Believers endured “a hard struggle with sufferings,” including public reproach and imprisonment.

· Hebrews 12:3–4 – Encouragement to endure hostility as Christ did.

· James 1:2–4 – “Count it all joy… when you meet trials of various kinds.”

· 1 Peter 1:6–7 – Trials refine faith “more precious than gold.”

· 1 Peter 4:12–16 – “Do not be surprised at the fiery trial… If anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed.”

Tribulation and Persecution in Revelation

· Revelation 1:9 – John identifies himself as a “partner in the tribulation and the kingdom.”

· Revelation 2:9–10 – The church in Smyrna faces slander, imprisonment, and death; they are told, “Be faithful unto death.”

· Revelation 6:9–11 – The souls under the altar are those “slain for the word of God.”

· Revelation 7:14 – The great multitude “came out of the great tribulation.”

· Revelation 12:11 – Believers overcome “by the blood of the Lamb… and they loved not their lives even unto death.”

· Revelation 13:7 – The beast is permitted “to make war on the saints and to conquer them.”

A Unifying Thread

Comparative Thematic Chart: Tribulation and Persecution Across Biblical Eras

This chart presents a comparative overview of the theme of tribulation and persecution as it unfolds throughout four major biblical eras. It highlights the nature of tribulation, identifies its primary agents, clarifies its purpose or meaning, and cites representative texts for each era. The following structured table demonstrates the continuity, development, and theological significance of this theme from the Old Testament through the teachings of Jesus, the apostolic writings, and the book of Revelation.

Biblical Era

Nature of Tribulation

Primary Agents

Purpose / Meaning

Representative Texts

Old Testament

National judgment; suffering of the righteous; prophetic persecution

Foreign nations, corrupt leaders, covenant consequences

Refinement, testing, preservation of a remnant

Ps 34:19; Isa 53; Jer 20; Dan 3–6

Jesus’ Teachings

Persecution for His name; birth pangs of the age to come

Religious authorities, nations, family betrayal

Mark of discipleship; participation in Christ’s suffering

Matt 5:10–12; Matt 24:9–13; John 15:18–20

Apostolic Writings

Church-wide persecution; personal trials; spiritual opposition

Authorities, communities, spiritual forces

Formation, endurance, witness, unity

Acts 5:40–41; Rom 5:3–4; 2 Cor 4:8–10; 1 Pet 4:12–16

Revelation

Great tribulation; martyrdom; cosmic conflict

Dragon, beast, world systems

Final testing, faithful witness, ultimate vindication

Rev 1:9; Rev 6:9–11; Rev 7:14; Rev 12:11

Across Scripture, tribulation is portrayed as expected for God’s people, formative in character, missional in witness, and eschatological in its trajectory toward final redemption and vindication. These examples should show a common theme in the Day of the Lord events.

What Stands Out in Matthew 24

I set up my argument on the repetitive themes of end-time events. These events include Old Testament and New Testament examples, and Jesus provides an additional warning to the Jewish system and Israel as a nation by describing conditions at the time of the ending of the age—the destruction of the Jewish Temple. However, He does not stop there; He continues to insert warnings that do not coincide with the Temple’s destruction, including:

· The gospel is preached throughout the world (v. 14)

· The greatest tribulation of all time, before and after (vv. 21–22)

· Immediately after the tribulation in those days, the sun and the moon are darkened, the stars fall from the heavens, and the heavens are shaken (v. 29)

· The sign of the coming of the Son of Man is seen in the heavens, and the nations mourn (v. 30)

· The sound of the trumpet and the angels sent forth to gather the Lord’s people (v. 31; 1 Thessalonians 4:15–18; Revelation 10:7)

None of these events have occurred, and they did not happen at the time of the Temple’s destruction in 70 C.E.; these words were concerning a distant future yet to come.

We then see Jesus pick back up with the end of the age of Israel and the Temple, where He announces that those days will come before the current generation of His day is over (Matthew 24:34). The remainder of Matthew 24 describes the uncertainty of the time of His return and that it comes as a thief in the night—so be ready at all times.

The Nature of Prophecy

It is not unusual for prophetic words to be mixed together with other statements being made by the prophet. A clear pattern runs through Scripture: many of the most important prophecies are not delivered as isolated predictions but are embedded inside narratives, laments, sermons, symbolic actions, or everyday stories.

What follows is a structured summary of these “mixed-in” prophecies—moments where a prophet is speaking about one thing on the surface, yet prophetic revelation is woven into the flow of the text.

Prophecies Embedded in Narrative Storytelling

1. Nathan’s Parable to David (2 Samuel 12:1–14)

Nathan tells a story about a rich man stealing a poor man’s lamb. The narrative seems moral and pastoral, but it suddenly turns prophetic when Nathan declares, “You are the man!” The prophecy of judgment on David’s house is embedded inside the parable.

Key prophetic elements:

· Sword will not depart from David’s house (v. 10)

· His wives will be taken publicly (vv. 11–12)

· The child born to Bathsheba will die (v. 14)

2. Ahijah’s Torn Cloak (1 Kings 11:29–39)

Ahijah meets Jeroboam on the road and tears his cloak into twelve pieces. The symbolic act looks like a strange story, but it contains a prophecy about the division of Israel.

Key prophetic elements:

· Ten tribes given to Jeroboam (v. 31)

· One tribe left for David’s line (v. 32)

· Future judgment for idolatry (v. 39)

Prophecies Hidden in Lament or Complaint

3. Habakkuk’s Dialogue (Habakkuk 1–2)

Habakkuk complains about injustice, and God answers with a prophecy about the rise of Babylon. The prophecy is embedded inside a back-and-forth conversation.

Key prophetic elements:

· Babylon raised up as judgment (1:5–11)

· The righteous will live by faith (2:4)

· Woes predicting Babylon’s downfall (2:6–20)

4. Jeremiah’s Confessions (Jeremiah 11–20)

Jeremiah’s personal laments often shift into prophetic declarations without warning.

Examples:

· Plot against Jeremiah becomes a prophecy of judgment on Judah (11:18–23)

· Jeremiah’s despair leads into prophecy of Babylon’s coming invasion (15:1–9)

Prophecies Embedded in Symbolic Actions

5. Ezekiel Lying on His Side (Ezekiel 4–5)

Ezekiel performs symbolic acts that look like strange stories, but each action contains prophetic meaning.

Key prophetic elements:

· 390 days for Israel’s sin (4:5)

· 40 days for Judah’s sin (4:6)

· Siege of Jerusalem symbolized by rationed food (4:9–17)

· Hair divided to represent judgment (5:1–4)

6. Isaiah’s Children as Signs (Isaiah 7–8)

Isaiah’s family life becomes prophecy. The narrative about his sons contains embedded predictions.

Key prophetic elements:

· Shear-jashub (“a remnant will return”) – prophecy of survival (7:3)

· Maher-shalal-hash-baz – prophecy of Assyria’s swift invasion (8:1–4)

Prophecies Hidden in Wisdom or Poetry

7. Psalm 22 and Psalm 69

These psalms read as personal suffering, but they contain embedded messianic prophecies.

Key prophetic elements:

· Pierced hands and feet (Ps 22:16)

· Casting lots for clothing (Ps 22:18)

· Zeal for God’s house (Ps 69:9)

· Gall and vinegar offered (Ps 69:21)

8. Moses’ Song (Deuteronomy 32)

A poetic song given to Israel contains embedded long-range prophecy.

Key prophetic elements:

· Israel’s future rebellion (vv. 15–18)

· God’s judgment through foreign nations (vv. 21–25)

· Final restoration (vv. 36–43)

Prophecies Embedded in Jesus’ Teaching

9. Parables with Prophetic Layers (Matthew 13)

Jesus’ parables are simple stories, but they contain prophetic revelation about the end of the age.

Key prophetic elements:

· Sower: mixed responses to the gospel (13:3–23)

· Weeds among wheat: coexistence of true and false believers until final harvest (13:24–30, 36–43)

· Dragnet: final separation of righteous and wicked (13:47–50)

10. Jesus’ Lament Over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41–44)

A moment of grief becomes a prophecy of Jerusalem’s destruction.

Key prophetic elements:

· Enemies will build an embankment (v. 43)

· City will be leveled (v. 44)

· Judgment because they “did not recognize the time of visitation”

Prophecies Embedded in Historical Narrative

11. Joseph’s Blessings (Genesis 49)

Jacob blesses his sons, but the blessings contain embedded long-term prophecies.

Key prophetic elements:

· Judah’s scepter and the coming ruler (v. 10)

· Zebulun’s future by the sea (v. 13)

· Dan as a serpent (v. 17)

· Joseph’s fruitfulness and future strength (vv. 22–26)

12. Balaam’s Oracles (Numbers 22–24)

The story of Balaam and Balak reads like a narrative adventure but embedded within it are major prophecies.

Key prophetic elements:

· A star rising out of Jacob (24:17)

· Edom and Moab subdued (24:17–18)

· Future dominion of Israel (24:19)

Prophecies Hidden in Everyday Events

13. The Broken Pot (Jeremiah 19)

Jeremiah breaks a pot in front of the elders. The simple act becomes a prophecy of Jerusalem’s shattering.

Key prophetic elements:

· Valley of Hinnom renamed Valley of Slaughter (v. 6)

· City made desolate (v. 8)

· Cannibalism during siege (v. 9)

14. Amos and the Basket of Summer Fruit (Amos 8:1–3)

A normal object becomes a prophetic sign.

Key prophetic elements:

· “The end has come upon My people Israel” (v. 2)

· Songs turned to wailing (v. 3)

Why These Mixed-in Prophecies Matter

These embedded prophecies reveal how God speaks through:

· ordinary life events

· symbolic actions

· personal suffering

· family stories

· parables and poetry

· political and military events

These references show that prophecy is not always a separate genre—it is often woven into the fabric of Scripture, requiring discernment to see the deeper layer.

Conclusion

Biblical prophecy should not be read in a two-dimensional or strictly linear fashion. Prophecy is more three-dimensional and filled with depth and spiritual significance, often missed by scholars who are more focused on the rules of modern language. It is easy to lose the entire forest trying to identify the trees.

I know this extensive effort will not satisfy everyone, and I will not defend these words, as I know God’s message is hidden from those who do not seek Him on His terms. The elect will understand and know when truth is exposed, and on that, I say, “so be it!”

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The Moment of Testing That Will Come!

Summary

This document explores the concept of standing firm in faith during times of tribulation, drawing on biblical passages from Daniel and Revelation. It questions the belief that only post-rapture believers will face severe trials, highlighting the spiritual significance of endurance and the prophetic nature of scripture. The author reflects on interpretations of prophecy and emphasizes that true strength arises from persevering through adversity, regardless of when one comes to faith.

Introduction

I have wondered in my spirit why I feel troubled when I read that biblical leaders claim, before the Great Tribulation comes, the church will be raptured. They teach that those who come to Christ during the Tribulation will face the wrath of the Antichrist. There are many concerns I have with this belief. One of them is that it makes the believers before the rapture appear weak and unprepared to stand the test that those left behind will have to face—and for what end? Simply because they were saved after the church was gone? Indeed, I see why they would be considered special, as the Holy Spirit and His church would be missing. What is left to lead them to Christ? Are they suffering because they arrived too late?

There is something major missing in that belief, and in spirit, it does not seem appropriate. Now, I feel I understand why.

Visions of the Last Days

“He shall seduce with flattery those who violate the covenant, but the people who know their God shall stand firm and take action. And the wise among the people shall make many understand, though for some days they shall stumble by sword and flame, by captivity. When they stumble, they shall receive a little help. And many shall join themselves to them with flattery, and some of the wise shall stumble, so that they may be refined, purified, and made white, until the time of the end, for it still awaits the appointed time.” – Daniel 11:32-35 ESV

There are a variety of teachings about the verses in Daniel, with many attempting to fit his visions into the context of the times in which he lived. Daniel’s visions are confounding because many of them did not pertain to his era or the near future. Some of his visions were meant to occur at the very end of the biblical age. Context based on literature and history does not reveal the true intent, as the original audience was not those to whom the text was initially addressed. That is the great mystery of prophecy: prophecy is spiritual in nature and transcends time. Prophecy is also often fragmented, suddenly appearing while an entirely different context is being discussed. We see this frequently in Psalms, where prophecy is hidden within songs of praise and worship.

Now, we move forward in time to consider a vision given to John in Revelation:

“And to the church in Philadelphia write: ‘The words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens. I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one will shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say they are Jews and are not, but lie—behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you. Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole earth, to try those who dwell on the earth. I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown.’” – Revelation 3:7-11 ESV

To start, I chose to focus on the scriptural passages to find a common theme. That theme is— standing firm. To stand firm is to face tribulations and personal or collective dangers head on, no matter the intensity of the threat. In Daniel, we see a stage of events occurring.

Seduction and flattery targeting those who break the covenant.

In this we are seeing a timeframe when the churches are starting to be infiltrated by false believers. The true believers among them will go through a period of intense persecution. The wise and firm believers will draw attention to their faith and these will start to understand. As the true believers are cut down in number, we see that some will join and provide a little help and comfort to the persecuted. However, the large gatherings that begin to enter the covenant will do so under flattery and enticements. Those that fall are seen as being refined and made pure – and this pattern will go on up to the time of the end.

This pattern is very clear in the early Christian churches under Roman and Jewish persecution. Leaders were rapidly being cut down, and many that followed did not have the level of commitment their starting leaders had and allowed deviations from the traditions given to them. The New Testament book of Galatians is an example of this taking place in a church the apostle Paul planted. Revelations, chapter Three describes a number of church departures from the original truths.

This vision actually covers the entire Christian age from the beginning of the covenant of Christ to the very end. Risings and fallings, believers being persecuted, followed by times of peace and growth, but many of that are not dedicated, but lured into the faith by enticements and flattery. This tendency is well seen in the Western churches as direct persecutions and death have diminished as a response to belief. Some have in fact, obtained great wealth and status preaching the gospel. This has been going on for millennia but the rising exchange of the faithful and false non-committed believers has been increasing ever since.

This raises a very serious question: Given the mixed nature of true and false believers within today’s highly divided and politicized Christian churches, what would Jesus do to prove which of his followers are sincere and dedicated (true wheat) versus the false (tares)?

That brings us back to Revelation 3:7-11, which I listed earlier. Many who advocate for a pre-tribulation rapture cite these—among others—as proof texts for their perspective. They see the church of Philadelphia as representing all Christians. That must be weighed against what the Angel of Christ is actually saying to John.

Tribulation Before Reward

If we look closely at the words in Revelation 3:7-11, we have to see the situation the church of Philadelphia was facing. This was already a heavily persecuted church that was barely hanging on. Their strength was nearly depleted, yet they endured and did not deviate from their confidence and confession of Jesus—despite being persecuted for that confession. This tells us why the Lord said they would be spared the testing that would come upon the whole earth. They were already being tested—unto death. There was no doubt about their faithfulness; in effect, they had already passed their tribulation.

The modern churches cannot claim that status, especially in the West, where most now face a time of ease and little persecution outside of occasional verbal abuse. Many live lives of plenty and face very little persecution. What that means is that today’s churches in the West are untested. How the combined Christian churches would respond if real persecution were to start, and everything they owned or loved was put at risk if they stood for Jesus, is, in effect, unknown.

The Real Biblical Perspective on Persecution

Daniel 11, as I listed at the beginning of this writing, shows persecution—losing property, being imprisoned, and being put to death—as a purification of the saints: a means of perfection and a clear demonstration of faith that pleases God.

Throughout the Bible, several passages illustrate the theme of believers enduring persecution as a means of purification and being made right in the eyes of God. In Daniel 11:35, it is written, “And some of those who are wise shall fall, to refine and purify them and make them white, until the time of the end, for it still awaits the appointed time.” This passage directly associates persecution and suffering with refinement and purification of the faithful.

In the New Testament, 1 Peter 1:6-7 states, “In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” Here, suffering and trials are compared to a refining fire that proves and purifies faith. The list for the call for endurance is found in many New Testament biblical passages like:

· Hebrews 12:1-2

· Romans 5:3-4

· James 1:2-4, 12

· Hebrews 10:36

· 2 Timothy 2:12

· Galatians 6:9

· Revelation 1:9

· 1 Corinthians 16:13

· 1 Peter 5:8-10

The above is not an exhaustive list of the many passages that emphasize endurance and standing firm on the testimony of Jesus. Given such a strong foundation that the believer’s life will face tribulations, why would today’s church think it can easily avoid not only persecution, but death itself, by being lucky enough to be raptured up before tribulations break out? That is not consistent with the teachings of Scripture.

Some see Revelation 7:15-17 as raptured saints coming out of the earth before the tribulation starts, but a correct reading indicates these saints are coming out of the tribulation, not before it. Given the reference to being given white robes washed in the blood of the Lamb, it is about those being persecuted and killed during the tribulation as they are received in heaven. The verses say these will dwell in God’s temple, and God himself will shelter them. There is no mention of an amassed return army to accompany Jesus back to the earth, nor any indication they are meeting Jesus in the air.

One of the best hints of a post-tribulation rapture is Revelation 10:7, “but that in the days of the trumpet call to be sounded by the seventh angel, the mystery of God would be fulfilled, just as he announced to his servants the prophets.”

The above goes well with Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 15:52, with emphasis on the last trumpet, which is the seventh as cited in Revelation 10:7. While not called the last trumpet, Paul clearly associates the resurrection of the dead with a trumpet call in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, and this is to be followed by the rapture—the lifting up of those who remain—after surviving the tribulations.

The Bible describes several reasons for the great tribulation associated with the antichrist. One major purpose is to test and purify believers, as seen in passages like Daniel 12:10: “Many shall be purified, made white, and refined, but the wicked shall act wickedly.” The tribulation also serves to expose and judge the rebellion of humanity against God, fulfilling prophecies regarding the rise of the antichrist and the culmination of evil (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4). Additionally, Revelation 13:5-8 explains that the antichrist is allowed to exercise authority for a limited time, so that those who refuse to worship God are revealed, and the perseverance of the saints is tested.

Ultimately, the tribulation is depicted as a necessary phase in God’s plan, leading up to the final defeat of evil and the establishment of His kingdom (Matthew 24:21-22; Revelation 19:20). These passages emphasize that tribulation is not merely punishment, but a period of refining, revealing true faith, and preparing the world for Christ’s return. Revelation 13:7 indicates that the beast—the Antichrist—will be allowed to make war on the saints and to conquer them. We see this also in Daniel 12:7-10, “it would be for a time, times, and half of time, and that when the shattering of the power of the holy people come to an end all these things will be finished.” (Recall Revelation 10:7—the mystery of God fulfilled.)

We also see the concept of purification that we saw in Daniel 11 where, “many shall purify themselves and make themselves white and be refined, but the wicked shall act wickedly. None of the wicked will understand, but those who are wise shall understand.”

Conclusion

I have written on this topic before—actually several times on Medium—and I write it again: the tribulation is a time of testing, for showing endurance, to remain faithful to the very end for the true believers. The beast, or the antichrist, rises to separate those that reject Jesus, are not committed to Jesus; and those that gathered within the churches that are not true believers, and the wicked to be seduced and show forth their true evil nature accumulating in taking the mark of the beast. Those that are true will have to endure and stand on their faith and speak out against the growing acceptance of sin and compromised faith, knowing they will be targeted for persecutions. Revelation 14:9-13 confirms both the nature of the testing and the requirements of true believers at that time.

“And another angel, a third followed them, saying with a loud voice, ‘If anyone worships the beast and it’s image and receives the mark on their forehead or on the hand, he will also drink the wine of God’s wrath, poured out in full strength into the cup of his anger, and he will be tormented with fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night, these worshipers of the beast, and its image, and whoever receives the mark of its name. Here calls for the endurance of the saints, those that keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus. Blessed are the dead, who die in the Lord from now on. Blessed indeed, says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!’” ESV

These words should reveal the truth of the tribulation. It is NOT the wrath of God, which comes afterwards triggered in the seventh trumpet. It is the final refinement and proof of the faith and endurance of the true believers, and the separation of the false, and evil doers that reject Jesus, and prefer the comforts of this life more than their love for Jesus as to accept the mark of the beast – and thus retain their property, status, and assumed safety.

Why Is This Necessary?

God is righteous and fair. He doesn’t delight in judgement and when He chooses to act – He focuses His fury on real evildoers and not the innocent. The tribulation separates the righteous and faithful from impostors, manipulators, heretics, and those that simply love evil and the current world. To do this, the true believers are pushed hard to resist the swan song of political expediency and their desire to prosper in the current evil age. Many will indeed die and be put to death, but some – a remnant will survive having faced considerable suffering as to be caught up with the righteous dead in the air with Jesus as he returns to implement the Wrath of God on all that remain having taken the mark of the beast. The Tribulation is the final harvest from the earth. What remains are subject to the full wrath of God, the seventh trumpet, and the vials of woe to be poured out on the earth.

None of the saints will face that or be in the world—they will be at rest, dressed in white, washed by the blood of Jesus, having perfected their faith by patient endurance to the very end.

The teaching I’m sharing with you is critical for the current point in time. The testing has already started and it is just a short matter of time for the revealing of the beast. His rise will occur behind a powerful wave of order and heavy surveillance like has never before been possible until now. The cage is being set, each satellite launched, each new data center built, each transactional tracking system put in place. These are the instruments needed for a true antichrist ruler to thrive and exert complete control. The ability to track and log every motive, every action, everything in real time.

Even now, the ranks of Christianity continue to fragment, and some are taking the opportunity to build political-religious alliances, providing religious credibility to the construction of the great system that will become the domain of the beast. Our society has entered a point at which no reversal by human will is possible. The cage is nearing completion. The mass delusion is well in place, and many are blind to the cage surrounding them. This is precisely what our Lord predicted in Matthew 24, and what Paul warned of in 1 Thessalonians 2:5-8 and 2 Timothy 3:1-9: the corruption process has already begun.

Leadings of the Holy Spirit: Spiritual Realities Not Defined or Limited by Approved Written Sources

Here you go—the updated image now features the revised quote:

“Not by might or power or knowledge, but by My Spirit – says the Lord of Hosts!”

The word knowledge has been seamlessly added to emphasize the divine source of strength. You can view and download the new version from the card above.

Would you like to explore other variations—perhaps different fonts, backgrounds, or symbolic elements to deepen the message?

Summary

This study investigates the mysterious reference in Jude 1:9 regarding the conflict between the archangel Michael and the devil over Moses’ body, a story not found in the canonical Old Testament. The analysis explores possible roots in Jewish apocryphal literature, especially the Assumption of Moses, and examines how ancient sources, traditions, and early Christian writers have shaped the interpretation of this passage. The discussion emphasizes the theological importance and the continuing scholarly debate about Jude’s use of non-canonical sources.

Introduction

Jude 1:9 stands out as one of the most intriguing passages in the New Testament, describing Michael the archangel contending with the devil over the body of Moses—a narrative missing from the canonical Old Testament. This verse has fascinated scholars, theologians, and students of Scripture for generations, raising questions about its origin, meaning, and theological significance. By considering ancient traditions, early Christian commentary, and modern scholarship, the meaning and importance of this passage can be more fully appreciated.

The aim of this discussion is not to debate whether Jewish Apocryphal writings should be part of the biblical canon. Instead, it demonstrates that Jewish thought during and before the New Testament era was informed by a diverse array of oral and written sources, which were widely known at the time of the New Testament’s composition. This analysis also challenges the notion that the Holy Spirit was inactive during the four-hundred-year intertestamental period spanning from the last Old Testament book, Malachi, to the beginning of the New Testament writings.

The Intertestamental Period

Modern scholars refer to the period between the prophet Malachi and the New Testament—a span of roughly four centuries—as the “intertestamental period” or “silent years.” Many argue that, based on Jewish tradition, this era was marked by an absence of recognized prophets and direct prophetic revelation. For instance, F.F. Bruce (1988) observes that rabbinic literature acknowledges “the spirit of prophecy departed from Israel after the deaths of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi.” Similarly, John Goldingay (2016) notes that although apocalyptic and wisdom literature thrived, there was a widespread belief among Jewish communities that the prophetic voice had ceased, anticipating a new era of divine intervention.

Historical sources such as 1 Maccabees mourn the lack of prophets during the Seleucid oppression (1 Maccabees 4:46, 9:27). The prevailing view among historians and biblical scholars is that, during this period, Jewish communities relied on interpreting earlier prophetic texts and developing apocalyptic expectations, rather than receiving new prophetic messages.

While scholars and Jewish rabbinical history do not recognize intertestamental writings as authentic prophecy, their assessments do not necessarily reflect the reality of God’s activity and the Spirit’s presence during those years.

Our questions are: what determines Spirit-inspired prophecy from false prophecy? Are current biblical scholars and Jewish rabbinic teachings considered as authentic judges reflecting the truth or does motivational bias play a role in their determinations?

Any serious Bible student should recognize that, before Jesus’ birth, Judaism was a fragmented religion with various schools of thought—similar to today’s Christianity. Each group favored certain interpretations and rejected others. Early Christian leaders also selected their preferred teachings from the available writings.

Spiritual Lessons

1. The opinions of people (even well-learned scholars) do not dictate the workings of God, nor limit the scope of the Holy Spirit’s authority!

2. When it seems that God is quiet, He is still very busy and the Holy Spirit still inspires those submitted to His will.

3. Seldom are things “black and white” or defined stops and starts when it comes to the revelations and insights provided by the Spirit of God.

4. The Apostles and early inspired teachers and prophets did not limit themselves to only popular and accepted Jewish Old Testament scriptural sources as the bases of their inspirations and comments.

5. Often what the majority agree on is more reflective of the cultural norms and expected teachings of a particular school of thought. This is where motivational bias occurs (that is, the tendency for individuals or groups to interpret information and make judgments in a way that supports their preexisting beliefs, desires, or interests, often unconsciously influencing decisions and perspectives).

Spiritual insights frequently differ from the prevailing cultural mindset and the foundational beliefs people generally accept. A clear example appears in Acts 10:9-16, where Peter, at the Spirit’s prompting, experiences God doing something completely new. Peter was unprepared for the change, and further scripture shows he struggled to adapt (see Galatians 2:11-14). Acts describes how the Holy Spirit worked with Peter to help him accept the first Gentile conversion, a fundamental shift that challenged established Jewish practices and beliefs rooted in the Law of Moses.

The Holy Spirit challenges our simple beliefs and practices, partly because we often become complacent and repeat traditions without question. Leaders may discourage questioning, causing new believers to hesitate out of fear of exclusion or divine displeasure. Unfortunately, such practices stifle the body of Christ and lead many to passively accept the prevailing social flow as long as it aligns with their own needs and assumptions.

Since my early days as a believer learning scripture, I was taught that God stopped speaking after Malachi. Yet, I never understood why God would suddenly become silent. Reading the Gospel of Luke revealed that inspiration did occur before Jesus’ birth and during the intertestamental period—as seen in the experiences of Anna and Simeon (Luke 2:25-38). Simeon, having been promised by the Spirit that he would see the Messiah before his death, recognized the infant Jesus instantly and delivered prophetic messages to Mary about the future of Israel, the child, and herself.

This sparked my interest in the Holy Spirit and a concern about the modern trend of believers who claim to follow only scripture but do not listen to the Spirit behind it. Today, mainstream Christianity often teaches that the Holy Spirit departed after the apostles died, leaving no one afterward open to inspired messages. I could not accept this notion, as it implies the Christian church is heading for gradual decline.

Christianity, in many expressions, resembles wanderers in a desert without a compass; they only possess an old drawing of the compass (scripture), which has faded and is interpreted differently by each group. Despite this, they rely on it to find their way—reflecting a modern Christianity that lacks the Holy Spirit and depends on assumptions and cultural norms: the blind leading the blind (see Matthew 15:14; Luke 6:39; Isaiah 56:10; Matthew 23:1-39; Zephaniah 1:17; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Isaiah 43:8; Deuteronomy 28:28-29; Isaiah 59:10; Isaiah 9:16).

My case is this: God is not silent; rather, people have lost the eyes to see and ears to hear what the Spirit is saying to today’s churches. Let us return now and examine what Jude borrowed from the teachings of his time.

The Text of Jude 1:9

“But Michael the archangel, when he disputed with the devil and argued about the body of Moses, did not dare pronounce against him a railing judgment, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’” (NASB)

This verse presents two central themes: the mysterious dispute itself and Michael’s reliance on God’s authority rather than his own.

Ancient Sources and Traditions

The Assumption (Ascension) of Moses

• Jude’s reference is widely considered to originate from the Jewish apocryphal text called the Assumption of Moses (or Ascension of Moses).

• Although the surviving manuscript does not include the dispute, early Christian writers such as Origen (3rd century) and Gelasius of Cyzicus (5th century) asserted that Jude drew from this work.

• The lost ending reportedly described Michael’s mission to bury Moses and the devil’s opposition, possibly accusing Moses of murder (Exodus 2:12).

Origen’s Commentary

• In De Principiis (3.2.1), Origen specifically states that Jude cited the Ascension of Moses.

• Origen links the devil’s opposition to Moses with the serpent’s role in Eve’s transgression, emphasizing Satan’s persistent hostility toward God’s people.

Deuteronomy 34:6

• The Old Testament says that God buried Moses in Moab, and “no one knows his burial place to this day.”

• Jude’s reference may explain why Moses’ burial was concealed: to prevent idolatry of his body or its misuse by spiritual enemies.

Theological Implications

Divine Authority

Michael’s decision not to rebuke Satan directly emphasizes the concept that only God has ultimate authority over the devil. This echoes Zechariah 3:2, where the Lord rebukes Satan in a vision concerning Joshua the high priest.

Spiritual Warfare

This passage illustrates the reality of spiritual conflict. Even the highest angels depend on God’s power, reminding believers that victory over evil is achieved through divine strength, not human or angelic effort.

Hiddenness of Moses’ Burial

The concealment of Moses’ grave underscores the risk of idolatry. Israel could have venerated Moses’ body, turning it into a shrine, but God prevented this by keeping the burial place hidden.

Modern Scholarly Perspectives

• Richard Bauckham (Word Biblical Commentary) reconstructs the story: the devil opposed Moses’ burial by accusing him of murder, but Michael overcame by appealing to God’s authority.

• Other scholars highlight the symbolic meaning of the passage, viewing it as a lesson in humility and reliance on God.

These views reveal the confusion and divided opinions within Christian scholarship. Without the Spirit, what more can scholars conclude?

Conclusion

Jude 1:9 stands as a compelling reminder of the unseen spiritual realities that shape biblical history. Drawing from Jewish apocryphal tradition, the passage underscores God’s supreme authority, the dangers of idolatry, and the believer’s need for divine strength in spiritual conflict. For teaching and reflection, Jude 1:9 exemplifies how Scripture interacts with extra-biblical traditions to communicate enduring theological truths.

The enduring message across centuries remains seek the Spirit of the Lord, and He will guide your path—not by strength, knowledge, or might, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Hosts! (Zechariah 4:6; 2 Corinthians 3:1-4)

References

• BibleHub Commentaries on Jude 1:9

• Biblical Hermeneutics StackExchange: Discussion on Jude 1:9

• Holy Joys: Why Did Michael Argue With the Devil About Moses’s Body?

• Early Jewish Writings: Assumption of Moses

• Bruce, F. F. (1988). The Canon of Scripture. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.

• Collins, J. J. (2000). The Apocalyptic Imagination: An Introduction to Jewish Apocalyptic Literature (2nd ed.). Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans.

• Goldingay, J. (2016). An Introduction to the Old Testament: Exploring Text, Approaches & Issues. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.

• VanderKam, J. C. (2001). From Joshua to Caiaphas: High Priests after the Exile. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press.

Defilement Comes From Within

Summary

This document is my attempt to invite readers, especially believers, to examine the motives of the heart thoughtfully and prayerfully, recognizing them as the true source of either corruption or righteousness. Rooted in Scripture, it reminds us that outward actions, beliefs, and even good works can appear faithful while being driven by hidden intentions that stand apart from the will of God. With a pastoral concern for the health of the Church and the soul of the believer, the author calls for humility, self‑examination, and spiritual discernment. By encouraging a continual turning toward repentance and reliance on the grace of Jesus, this work urges Christians to move beyond performance and outward conformity and instead pursue a life shaped by pure motives aligned with the heart of Christ.

Introduction

Association with an evil cause is not a convictable offense unless a motive can be established. It is not my purpose to review American or other laws, but to point to the deep well of what truly corrupts humanity, and it is what motivates our thoughts and actions.

I started authoring this article with an entirely different theme in mind, but I felt a powerful pull within to address an extremely serious and often overlooked trap that both unbelievers and believers are susceptible – and sometimes not aware of it.

Establishing Motive

There are scriptures that describe the fallen state of the human heart – the center of what moves us and, in many ways, controls our impulses. The heart is not the physical organ that pumps blood, but the real core of a person from which springs the will and ability to act. I started a series of articles published in the Dove, regarding Moral Compromise and the influences and forces that shape our worldview. However, there is a level within each of us that is so deeply hidden that literally no one understands, not even ourselves. For the believer, it is established that God sees the hidden things and if the Spirit of God is within us, we can become aware of the hidden things within us – and others if we are careful to listen and follow the ways of the Spirit.

A Definition of Motive

In human behavior, motive refers to the underlying reason or driving force that prompts an individual to act or think in a certain way. It is the internal intention that shapes actions, often rooted in the core of a person’s being, which is sometimes described as the “heart”—not the physical organ, but the center of will and ability. The source of motive is deeply embedded within each person, influenced by their worldview, experiences, and, for believers, spiritual awareness. Although motives are often hidden even from ourselves, they are recognized as the true source behind our thoughts and actions and are crucial in understanding what truly corrupts or purifies human conduct.

Establishing motive is essential because it reveals not just what we do, but why we do it. In spiritual contexts, it is believed that God alone fully perceives these hidden motives, and with spiritual discernment, individuals may gain insight into their own and others’ motives by listening to the Spirit. This understanding underscores the importance of questioning motives in all aspects of life, as motives are the foundation from which actions spring. Jesus confirms this by stating that from the heart coming out of a person is what defiles them (Mark 7:15-23; Matthew 15:11). Technically, everything on its own is neutral, not evil in itself; but once it is used based on defiled purposes outside the will of God, it becomes corrupted. The apostle Paul emphasizes this in 1 Corinthians 10:23, where he indicates all things are permissible – that is, within or outside the Law – is okay, but our motives and what we seek to gain will decrease the intrinsic value and make it meaningless or even harmful.

This is why we can say that having money or wealth is not evil – but the desire for wealth and love of possessions are evil, because our motives are impure as we desire these things for ourselves, to covet (Hebrew chamach; Greek epithymeo) which is defined as an excessive level of selfish intent or desire for something that belongs to others. In wealth, the desire to hoard and control is to deny the same for another. The rich get richer at the expense of the poor who become poorer. In America, this is simply capitalism at work and an acceptable practice by a nation that claims to be Christian. One can see how cognitive dissociation plays a powerful role in the American psyche. It is also plausible that if the motive were not corrupt, the wealthy individual would treasure giving their money away to benefit others over themselves. This would not work well in a capital-motivated society, but it would definitely show a different motivation, more in line with the Holy Spirit.

Living a False Identity

One of the most beguiling qualities of humanity is presenting a public front that masks the hidden truth. Some make this an art form and utilize this to gain advantage, praise, and higher status over others. In these cases, they seem really good and helpful in their speech and actions – but their motives are defiled and driven by hatred or covetousness. Paul identifies that in his day; some actually preached the gospel of Jesus out of envy or competition (Philippians 1:15–18). Some did it to mock Paul while he was in prison.

What this tells us is that no matter how a person behaves or speaks – even good things – if the heart or source of motive is corrupt, so is the deed. The Pharisees that confronted Jesus had a wonderful thing going for themselves in their outward form of piety. Yet, Jesus saw through them and called them out for their hypocrisy. The lesson here is that a works-based righteousness means nothing if it comes from impure motives. This was the charge the Old Testament prophets repeated against Israel – the people of God! Their hearts, their motivation or lack thereof, undermined any attempts they made to do good, the limited times they attempted. This is why Paul in Romans and Galatians teaches the inability of a righteousness by observing the Laws of Moses – it could not be done!

For such reasons is why God departed a works-based righteousness and why ancient Israel failed again and again to achieve works that pleased God under the Law of Moses. Indeed, the very reason no one will ever please God by attempting to earn favor based on performance. The modern term that best captures this condition is called – Motive. While simple, establishing motive is one of the more tricky thing to determine in the courts of law.

Association with an evil cause is not a convictable offense unless a motive can be established. It is not my purpose to review American or other laws, but to point to the deep well of what truly corrupts humanity, and it is what motivates are thoughts and actions.

Establishing Motive

There are scriptures that describe the fallen state of the human heart – the center of what moves us and in ways controls our impulses. The heart is not the physical organ that pumps blood, but the real core of a person from which springs the will and ability to act. I started a series of articles published in the Dove, regarding Moral Compromise and the influences and forces that shape our worldview. However, there is a level within each of us that is so deeply hidden that literally no one understands, not even ourselves. For the believer it is established that God sees the hidden things and if the Spirit of God is within us, we can become aware of the hidden things within us – and others if we are careful to listen and follow the ways of the Spirit.

A Definition of Motive

In human behavior, motive refers to the underlying reason or driving force that prompts an individual to act or think in a certain way. It is the internal intention that shapes actions, often rooted in the core of a person’s being, which is sometimes described as the “heart”—not the physical organ, but the center of will and ability. The source of motive is deeply embedded within each person, influenced by their worldview, experiences, and, for believers, spiritual awareness. Although motives are often hidden even from ourselves, they are recognized as the true source behind our thoughts and actions and are crucial in understanding what truly corrupts or purifies human conduct.

Establishing motive is essential because it reveals not just what we do, but why we do it. In spiritual contexts, it is believed that God alone fully perceives these hidden motives, and with spiritual discernment, individuals may gain insight into their own and others’ motives by listening to the Spirit. This understanding underscores the importance of questioning motives in all aspects of life, as motives are the foundation from which actions spring. Jesus confirms this by stating that from the heart coming out of a person is what defiles them (Mark 7:15 - 23; Matthew 15:11). Technically, everything is on its own is neutral, not evil in itself; but once it is used based on defiled purposes outside the will of God, it becomes corrupted. The apostle Paul emphasizes this in 1 Corinthians 10:23, where he indicates all things are permissible – that is within or outside the Law - is ok, but our motives and what we seek to gain will decrease the intrinsic value and make it meaningless or even harmful.

This is why we can say that having money or wealth is not evil – but the desire for wealth and love of possessions are evil, because of our motives are impure as we desire these things for ourselves, to covet (Hebrew chamact; Greek epithymeo) which is defined as an excessive level of selfish intent or desire something that belongs to others. In wealth, the desire to hoard and control is to deny the same for another. The rich get richer at the expense of the poor who become poorer. In America, this is simply capitalism at work and an acceptable practice by a nation that claims to be Christian. One can see how cognitive dissociation plays a powerful role in the American psyche. It is also plausible that if the motive were not corrupt, the wealthy individual would treasure giving their money away to benefit others over themselves. This would not work well in a capital-motivated society, but it would definitely show a different motivation -more in line with the Holy Spirit.

Living A False Identity

One of the most beguiling quality of humanity is presenting a public front that masks the hidden truth. Some make this an artform and utilizes this to gain advantage, praise, and higher status over others. In these cases, they seem really good and helpful in their speech and actions – but their motives are defiled and driven by hatred or covetousness. Paul identifies that in his day; some actually preached the gospel of Jesus out of envy or competition (Philippians 1:15 – 18). Some did it to mock Paul while he was in prison.

What this tell us is that no matter how a person behaves or speaks – even good things – if the heart or source of motive is corrupt, so is the deed. The Pharisees that confronted Jesus had a wonderful thing going for themselves in their outward form of piety. Yet, Jesus saw through them and called them out for their hypocrisy. The lessons here is that a works-based righteousness means nothing if it comes from unpure motives. This was the charge the Old Testament prophets repeated against Israel – the people of God! Their hearts, their motivation or lack thereof undermined any attempts they made to do good, the limited times they attempted. This is why Paul in Romans and Galatians teaches the inability of a righteousness by observing the Laws of Moses – it could not be done!

Why is the Urgent

America, and many nations of the world live and struggle within a dissonate split society claiming alignment on certain defined principles while compelled to act on an entirely separate set of standards – and waltzing back and forth without a sense of stability. We claim that all men are equal, yet we work to degrade and even expulse those we do not desire. We attract and employ immigrants to work our fields and even pay taxes, then we seek to expulse the very ones we attracted in the first place. We claim slavery was bad and amoral, yet an entire Christin theology was created with the sole purpose to justify enslavement.

This is due to constant conflicting ideologies due to hidden motives. Christians are mostly busy looking at the outward things and open themselves to influences that gain a stronghold on our hearts and in turn our motivations towards evil. This is what is currently being seen in movements like Christian Nationalism and ridged fundamentalism. They express an outward tone of good, that is corrupted by their selfish motives. They would have what they would deny others. Some Christian secs seek to follow and obey the Laws of Moses while claiming the name of Christ. Again, none are saved or justified by works of the Law, but the motives within which either justifies or condemns and this is what true believers must constantly focus their attention to avoid corruption.

Always Question the Motive

A general rule for all truly dedicated to Jesus is to always question the motives of any claim or action exhibited by others and oneself. Never accept a person at their words if their deeds do not match. Scripture tells us not to lay hands quickly on anyone (1 Timothy 5:22) identifying all motives over time before extending the full right hand of fellowship – and that goes double for those seeking leadership!

Always recall that no good deed goes unpunished by those motivated by a need for revenge.

A good start for resolute true believers is to question what benefit the individual or decision made returns to that person. If there are understandable signs of gain or self-enrichment, the person’s decisions and action should be questioned. Certainly, if someone else loses or suffers because of a decision or action made by a believer in Christ in support of the destructive decision, they must be brought under suspicion. If we couple ourselves with causes, opinions, social groups, or any norm that goes against the tenants of the teachings of Jesus or the commands of God, that association must be questioned and seek means to remove oneself from it. The church of Jesus must not fellowship or align themselves with evil motives of others.

Conclusion

I cannot state or write this warning any more emphatically than my limited abilities will allow. We western believers are in a cesspool of conflicting motivations and many change and morph as to be seen as acceptable, masking the inner evil and corruption. If one tactic does not work, the tactics are changed to become more acceptable but no difference in outcome. One can express love while deeply hating; one can express support and admiration while planning another’s downfall and ruin. The list goes on and on…

There are numerous examples, too numerous to list. However, I fear without exposer few will understand or see the danger – even among believers. Christianity is compromised, split, and growing ineffective to bring the unbeliever to repentance – which is the only way into God’s favor. Not works, not deeds, not the amount of money, seat, or blood you give it means nothing. For all have sinned and come short of the Glory of God! (Romans 3:23) There are none that are righteous – no, not one! (Romans 3:10-12; Psalm 14:1-3; Psalm 53:1-3)

That is the level of degrading all humanity faces, not to condemn or shame – but to drive us to repent and believe on the grace of Jesus to fill the void. If believers cannot compel unbelievers to repentance - they will not be saved, even calling themselves Christians and doing good works will never make them righteous. However, if the Churches are no different in motivation and defilement than the general society, then indeed it will very shortly be the end.

Watch yourselves that you do not become undone by hidden motives!

Competing Loyalties and Influences

Summary

This document explores the complex interplay between spiritual influences, competing loyalties, and collective human behavior, particularly in the context of Christian faith. It discusses how visible and unseen forces shape beliefs and actions, highlighting the dangers of divided loyalties among believers and referencing current events involving the Catholic Church. Drawing from biblical examples like the Tower of Babel, the text emphasizes the power of unified groups—both for good and ill—and the importance of spiritual discernment to avoid being swayed by negative influences.

Introduction

I started writing reflections on the nature of humanity, the source of consciousness, and how these things line up for believers in Christ. My effort is to prepare a people for difficulties ahead for believers in Jesus. The world around us is full of both visible and unseen influencers seeking our attention and loyalties. For the believer, when those loyalties challenge the Scriptures and the ways of God, we can become compromised and lose direction.

Current Events

There are many brewing situations now in motion with spiritual overtones for those sensitive to the Spirit. It is especially important that true believers guard themselves as forces work to make you declare loyalties that may satisfy personal ambitions but violate right and wrong according to God. As an example, the Catholic Church appears split between the position of their Pope and the President of the United States (see link). If this reporting is true, that is a profoundly grave concern. I am not advocating for the Pope or the Catholic Church, but I do recognize a basic “right and wrong” stand; and when those professing love of God—regardless of the denomination—they represent the Christian church and its image in the world.

Conservative Catholics who support the American political position have been persuaded to support religious conservative political policies based on hard issues like abortion. Most see this as a line in the sand and will not support political platforms favoring abortion, this is understandable. But when their chosen leader declares that mass killings and wars are not consistent with the will of God, he draws political fire for it. It seems that half or more disagree with his opinion and, in doing so, take the side of violence and war. How can this happen?!

Hidden Power of Influence and Mass Appeal

Few Christians take seriously any discussions on the unseen and spiritual powers. Still, these individuals live in a world where these powers and principalities are active. The part of human consciousness that extends beyond the brain and body connects all to the spiritual plane. Not everyone is sensitive enough to experience that connection; still, it remains an open door for spiritual influences, and some of them are not good. There is a hidden dynamic of spirituality that impacts individuals, but there is a more powerful level when crowds of people come together with one mind for a single cause. Genesis 11:1-9 in the Bible provides a perspective on such dynamics in the story of the Tower of Babel.

The Tower of Babel is a mysterious story, not completely understood. How would a tower threaten God? Science tells us there is no way an ancient tower built of mud and brick could reach up to the heavens without collapsing. No mortal would survive attempting to build with such crude materials miles into the sky. Sure, there are monuments, ziggurat towers, and pyramids of great stature up to 300 feet high; but these structures did not climb into the heavens. They were ceremonially seen as the dwelling places of the gods, where mortals and powerful beings could come together.

God took offense at the Babel tower and intervened, scattering the people across the world with differing languages. The point was to stop the collective will of the people, to limit their ability to collaborate on any one cause or believe in any one guiding principle. Why was that important? Not because of the building of a tower, but because the collective will of a gathering of people produced conditions that favored spiritual power. This is not uncommon even on the positive spiritual side: as congregations of resolute believers, when united, Jesus himself indicates he is there with them (Matthew 18:20). The power of the Holy Spirit and the presence of angels can be experienced during a holy gathering of true saints of God (Hebrews 12:22-24).

The opposite is true as well: when there are large gatherings of people focused on the wrong thing, corrupt and dark spirits gather and grow stronger in their abilities to influence and control the minds of the people so engaged. This has been the pattern for many ages when you consider civilizations gathering for war and stirring up frenzies in preparation. Tribal shamans and mystics stir up celebrations, evoking spiritual connections that move people into ecstatic states of consciousness. These patterns have existed for millennia with different purposes and rituals custom to the society.

The Power of Collective Purpose

The collective power of human gatherings for a single cause has profound effects from both secular and biblical spiritual perspectives. Secularly, when large groups unite with a shared purpose, they can generate significant social momentum, influence public opinion, and drive major cultural or political change. History shows that movements such as civil rights, revolutions, and mass protests often succeed because of the unified energy and determination of the people involved. See: The Power of the Crowd

From a biblical spiritual viewpoint, collective gatherings can amplify spiritual forces, both positive and negative. As stated earlier in this writing, the story of the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9) illustrates how unified human intention can become a spiritual force, prompting divine intervention to scatter the people and confuse their language. Conversely, when believers gather in unity, as in Matthew 18:20, it is said that the presence of Jesus and the Holy Spirit is among them, empowering their purpose and spiritual experience. This dynamic shows that the collective will can either invite divine blessing or, if misdirected, attract negative spiritual influences. See: Genesis 11:1-9, Matthew 18:20

Why is this Important?

The importance of this subject for the believer in Jesus is to guard yourselves from the influences and causes of unbelievers—to be extremely careful about combining believers’ voices, convictions, and ideologies with those of people who do not hold the testimony of Jesus and Scripture in a consistent way. Political causes are extremely dangerous because, under the shared purposes, there are many dark motives and motivators seeking unholy purpose. In these situations, the believer—representing the house of God—is uniting their causes with the throne of Satan. There cannot be any harmony between God and demonic influences (2 Corinthians 6:14-17; 1 Corinthians 10:18-20).

Populism, as the root of political causes, can be a decoy of demonic influences and power. It stirs anger, resentments, hidden impulses, and secret motives to surface into the fires of frenzy, which feeds the unseen corrupt spiritual forces and, in turn, exacerbates the power of the populist influencer. This explains the uncanny powers of persuasion some leaders exert over their listeners—it is also the path the final antichrist will walk! It is extremely dangerous for believers to yield their minds and thoughts to influencers and to open themselves to the potential of following the antichrist, thinking that person is from God and is God!

Conclusion

For believers in America, this is a critical time, and we have been conditioned to feel compelled to participate in public debate and the selection of leaders. Many of these decisions are filled with passions and motives that lie hidden and masked in good intent, but underneath are sick, calloused, and rotting hearts seeking gain an advantage. We see the outside and become caught up in the frenzy with others we respect and, unknowingly, may in fact be supporting a devil in disguise.

Sadly, the Christian churches are often blind to spiritual discernment and willingly allow their voices and influence to join with agendas that mask the truth and replace it with a lie. At the start of this writing, I mentioned how the Catholic Church is split between their loyalty to the Pope and the President of the United States—how they treasure a strong commitment against abortion but seem willing to condone mass murder and killings in warfare. This is a terrible inconsistency in scriptural understanding. While I have no investment in the role of a religious pope, I do share a common conviction that killing and creating wars is evil. It is extremely hard to see those called believers having a different perspective.

In my heart, I hear an echo that says, “the leviathan is on the hook!” This is reminiscent of the biblical references in Job 41:1-2, 19-21; Psalm 74:14; Isaiah 27:1; Revelation 12:3-9; and Revelation 13:1-4.

The meaning seems to imply being trapped in something self-created, a decision gone very wrong that will have global implications going forward. A destiny has been created that leads to troubles.

References

1. Stöckel F, Stöckli S, Lyons BA, Kroker H, Reifler J. The Power of the Crowd: How the Public Can Both Spoil and Improve Social Media as a Source of Information. Cambridge University Press; 2025.

2. Wikipedia contributors, “Crowds and Power,” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Crowds_and_Power&oldid=1333736751 (accessed April 21, 2026).

Being Naive and Foolish About Sin

Summary

This document explores the dangers of being naive and foolish about sin by emphasizing the unseen spiritual influences that shape human behavior and conflict. It argues that modern culture has shifted away from recognizing these spiritual realities, instead medicalizing extreme behaviors and ignoring their deeper roots as described in Scripture. The text draws on biblical foundations to highlight the presence of celestial and demonic forces, illustrating how these unseen entities contribute to chaos, internal conflict, and societal unrest. It urges believers to maintain a spiritual perspective, warning that dark influences can drive people to despair and destructive actions, especially as the time of judgment approaches.

Introduction

One of the greatest harms the modern world has done is to shift our culture away from an awareness of spiritual influences. Today, we describe extreme human behaviors with medical terms such as psychopathy, narcissistic traits, Machiavellianism, and more cliché descriptions like the Dark Triad. What these descriptors have in common is that they medicalize behavior as symptoms based on bad genetics, poor upbringing, traumatic childhood experiences, and so on. These terms fail to expose what the Word of God describes as the true burden beneath such disorders—the breath that sets them aflame. Lacking that critical perspective leaves us open to attack and unable to resist when such occurrences target us, our families, friends, relatives, and those in leadership positions. I write on these things because this is where faith and the unseen merge—and where only the foolish go bravely, unaware or in disregard.

The Biblical Foundations

True believers have to come to understand the split nature of reality as described in Scripture. We as mortals experience only a small fragment of reality and are mostly blind to the vast universe behind the veil that shapes the conditions for what we call the visible world. As science advances, it has come to the point that the underpinnings of reality can appear illusory, what might even be said to work like magic. A world where unseen particles behave as if they can, by magic, jump and appear in a different location and never be seen to have left their original position; where particles can be matched in vibrational frequency and, if separated, can instantly change in tandem with their partner particle no matter how far apart they are.

I do not aim to argue about science, but to build upon the principle that what is seen is built on what is unseen. No matter the reasoning—no matter the sophistication of the empirical argument—in the end, you can wind up with nothing. And from nothing, you get reality. The Holy Bible is built upon that very foundation—the unseen. Technically, it can drive us crazy not being able to see God or any of the celestial beings governing the universe. We are limited to seeing only the shadow of what their actions produce in the visible world. For all our technology and effort to predict tomorrow’s weather with sophisticated models, the truth is often different from the models. Interestingly, sometimes the forecasts are consistent enough to feed our pride, as though we can master the weather or all elements of nature—until major deviations appear that our algorithms did not predict. The universe is so vast and unpredictable at the infinite level that it frustrated great minds like Albert Einstein, who could not reconcile a chaotic, unpredictable universe. To him, it was as if God were playing dice while running things.

What we can glean from Scripture is that we live in—and were created for—the world we now occupy. We are of the world, and the world is in us. The very elements that make up all matter on the earth are within our mortal form. However, we are told that the breath of God—a portion of His spiritual essence—lives within our mortal form. We are more than the sum of our visible parts. That truth is the fracture point that can pull us in multiple directions and create the potential for internal conflict and misery. Add to this the knowledge that a large number of hostile spiritual beings are trapped and share this world with us. The Nephilim—now demons—wander across the earth unseen yet remain active in producing misery for humanity. Fallen celestial beings are trapped within the earth in chains of darkness, as described in the New Testament books of 2 Peter and Jude, among others.

We learn that the cosmos—the heavenly places—are occupied by powerful celestial spirits and principalities working to maintain the creation of their Creator (and ours): the Most High Elohim—the Lord and God of Hosts. We learn that there once was a host of lower elohim who rebelled against the Most High and attempted to corrupt His creation. We further learn these rebels were cast out of the heavenlies and thrown down to our world, trapped until the time of judgment. However, we also learn that times of trouble and despair intensify now that the chief of the fallen elohim—the accuser, the devil, the great dragon, the manipulator, Satan—has been cast down to earth and now seeks whom he may devour.

The setup doesn’t look good. Our world is indeed a crowded place, and many of those trapped here seek to cause us harm. For the unsuspecting, there is little defense against their manipulations. Such individuals are driven by what they do not see or comprehend, while their desires and ambitions are set aflame by beings that lurk in the shadows. For that reason, those around us may suddenly—or slowly—change in personality and do things that would seem out of character, even extreme, from the perspective of a rational person. From this come wars, rumors of wars, unrest, uncontrolled greed, and inhumanity. The more active these dark shadows become, the worse the state of humanity. As the time for judgment approaches, these beings grow more active. And that is why we now see extreme actions among the nations, tribes, and peoples: feral instincts rising to the surface; deep-seated resentments; desires for dominance and superiority; and greed and lust of many different kinds.

Perspective

For believers in Christ, we need the right lens for seeing strange occurrences around us, so we are not trapped in despair or depression. That, too, can be an effect of dark spiritual influences—influences that can lead to suicidal tendencies or worse: homicidal and self-destructive motivations. This can be especially alarming when it occurs in those with no previous history of violence or irregular antisocial behavior. Even a small offense or feeling of discord can be stirred into full passion by dark spiritual influence.

There are those who, in secret, consult dark spirits for knowledge, power, wealth, and dominance. The occultic—or hidden—world is not considered evil by everyone; some see it as gain and have prospered by delving into dark spirituality. We must recognize that this does occur, as those who study the history of powerful movements and cults understand. The underpinnings of the Second World War included consultations and ceremonies with dark spiritual powers by those seeking control—as in Nazi Germany—or even groups professing a form of Christianity, like the former Branch Davidians in the USA. Even now, mediumship has become popular among Hollywood and Western enlightenment circles. High-profile mediums openly advertise their ability to channel spirits. We, in fact, live in a demon-haunted world.

The Church

Scripture teaches that Jesus overcame the dark forces of this world, and by His resurrection He commissioned His Church to go throughout the world preaching the gospel. This was to be the vanguard of an invasion by the Kingdom of God into our demon-haunted world—a conflict and clash of spiritual powers, a battle of immense power and casualties. Those recruited understood the cost of their service—their very lives. The four Gospels and the book of Acts provide an early picture of both the beginnings and the advancement of the Church. However, only those who seriously study their Bibles understand that the first churches were already showing signs of fracturing. The Epistles of Paul, for the most part, were letters written from prison to various churches facing discord, drifting from the true faith, jealousy, pride about spiritual gifts, and even drunkenness during the Lord’s Supper (the Eucharist). A number of issues erupted between the Jewish branch of the early Church and the growing Gentile branch. While imprisoned, Paul pleaded with the churches he helped plant not to stray from the first principles of Christ.

It should be no great surprise that two thousand years later, the visible church has fragmented into thousands of pieces and has been infiltrated by members in name only, without the indwelling Spirit of God. This is consistent with Jesus’ parable of the field: an enemy planted weeds (tares) that look like wheat but are counterfeit. The fact that the church’s vanguard mission into a spiritually deprived and evil-dominated world has largely stalled should also not be a mystery. Jesus foresaw these things in Matthew 24. Paul reinforced these teachings by warning of the great falling away and the rise of false teachers and prophets (2 Thessalonians 2:3), and Peter warned of false teachers (2 Peter 2:1-22). From the beginning, the church’s decline was forecast, and with that decline the church will not save everyone. The conclusion is the return of Jesus and the judgment of those who resist the Spirit’s call.

True believers do not work alone in this world. Spiritual agents are assigned to assist in the mission and often defend believers from attack—and sometimes from stupid mistakes that could prove fatal. I know this because I was once very foolish in my youth and made big mistakes; I was rescued from some of my own decisions. While I acknowledge that dark spirits roam about, there are also many bright spirits sent to protect the elect of God (Psalm 91:11-12; Psalm 34:7; Hebrews 1:14; Matthew 13:41-42; Hebrews 13:2).

Still, the elect must be taught to be wise to the ways of this world and not become compromised, exposing themselves to danger, or remain ignorant and allow openings for evil to strike. Temptations come in a wide variety of forms, including through those you associate with—and perhaps deeply care for. Evil is cunning and willing to use every angle to stop a true believer and twist their convictions.

Conclusion

I’ve cast a wide net on this subject, which has many subdivisions and specific instructions. However, it is beneficial at times to step back and see the big picture, so we do not lose hope and think all is lost—as it can sometimes feel. The final message of Scripture is endurance. Endurance is not a sign of advancing gain, but of setting up a defense and holding the position. The battle was destined to go dark from the beginning. In military terms, the mission of the church was to go behind enemy lines, spread the message, and extract those who chose to ally themselves to the cause of the mission. Christianity was never meant to possess the world and force-convert the unbelieving people of this world as a whole. Once the extraction is complete, the war concludes with the Lord and His angels performing a final cleansing that shuts down enemy territory and prepares the battlefield for reinhabitation.

I use worldly terms to describe spiritual truth. Prayerfully, this gives believers a clear sense of the mission Jesus gave us while we remain in this demon-haunted world. We are sent to rescue the lost, and if we become consumed with gaining status in this world—or if we align ourselves with renegade causes or mercenary efforts such as nationalism—we risk being left behind with the rest of the world that will face God’s judgment.

Pastoral Exhortation

Do not be naive about sin or casual about the enemy. Darkness aims to dull you, divide you, and devour you. Wake up: call evil what it is and refuse the soft language that excuses rebellion. Do not fear—Christ has already triumphed, and He gives His people wisdom and armor.

Repent quickly, forgive fully, and shut every door to compromise—especially the respectable ones. Guard your mind and home. Stay in the Word, stay honest in prayer, stay in fellowship, and do the work Jesus gave you: love God, love people, preach the gospel, and endure. The King is coming; His mercy is offered now. Stand firm and let your life testify that Jesus Christ is Lord.

So, choose today: turn from sin, break agreement with compromise, and take your place on watch. Pray with clarity. Open the Scriptures with obedience. Put distance between your soul and every shadow. Speak the gospel to someone who cannot repay you. If you have been drifting, return now. If you have been silent, speak now. Do not wait for easier days—walk with Christ and endure.

Building the Foundations of Discipleship

Summary

This document explores the foundations of Christian discipleship, emphasizing the challenges faced by modern believers amid conflicting interpretations, denominational divides, and cultural changes. It distinguishes between reading the Bible and truly hearing God’s voice, asserting that the Holy Spirit is essential for genuine understanding and spiritual growth. The text highlights the importance of discerning truth, overcoming obstacles to faith, and recognizing the necessity of the Spirit’s indwelling for access to God’s Kingdom and fruitful living.

Introduction

Modern Christianity is nearly paralyzed by many problems, such as discordance in biblical understanding, thousands of separate, clan-like denominations, a growing number of “different” voices, and a rapidly changing world environment and culture. It is a wonder anyone can be called out by the gospel message anymore. Indeed, these are signs of the waning age of Christianity and, with that, the collapse of humanity.

Some—a remnant of people—will respond to the gospel message but face so many confusing voices that they become frustrated, or worse: they seek to deconstruct the offensive messages and modify the biblical message itself. How does one seeking the Kingdom of God get through all the noise? How does one stay on the one true path? Yet, more importantly, how does the believer experience the power of God and see more clearly into the spiritual Kingdom?

It Starts With Hearing: Stage One

I will start this discussion by making an extremely controversial statement—hearing the voice of God is not the same thing as reading the Bible. Yes, I said it, and my reason is that given the many translations, languages, and differing understandings of the Bible, the words of God do not get through the chatter and the filter of our predetermined perspectives based on culture and worldly influences. You can read the words but make no sense of them. The Bible only becomes clearer when you have the indwelling Spirit of God. We must recognize that the Spirit of God is not limited to reading a book. It is a great he Bible is a great guide and provides historical context, it is a recording of voices from long ago. For an “active” faith today, it requires a real-time voice that guides the Church.

Now that I have opened the door of distress for some, I want to clarify a fact: the Holy Spirit of God will never contradict or change the written word of God. No prophet, seer, teacher, or leader speaking through the Spirit’s voice will create conflict, discord, or doubt about the words of the Bible. The Holy Bible is a guide and provides context for the true believer to investigate and prove that the words they are hearing from so-called prophets are true—to cut through the noise and get to the truth. When Scripture identifies that the believer is completely equipped by Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16), it does not mean that no other means exists for God to communicate, but rather establishes the foundations needed to discern the truth of God from a false one. So, I state again that the Bible is not the only means by which God communicates His will to a true believer. In fact, there are many methods available to God, provided we have the ears to hear and eyes to see.

The primary challenge for a sincere seeker of truth is the many discordant voices claiming to represent Jesus—but do not. This is like a large army gathered in front of the only entry, threatening those who desire to enter. It is a powerful tactic of the enemy of God and amazingly effective. Jesus illustrates this within His parable of the Sower (Farmer) in Matthew 13:1–9. Here Jesus indicates that the Word of God, like seeds, is scattered about in a field, but birds come along and eat the seeds—preventing the seeds from taking root. He also compares various kinds of soil to their potential for the seeds to take root, grow, and mature to harvest. This parable represents the current situation for new believers today—only magnified by many factors!

While the gospel is preached and taught, seeds are sown, but the enemy has set traps to block the seeds from meeting the soil, or, upon meeting the soil, to present hazards that block growth. The first stage for entering the Kingdom of God is successfully hearing the gospel: receptive hearing and intent to accept the call. This is an exceedingly difficult stage filled with hazards, and few who are called actually move forward—but this stage is absolutely essential to enter the Kingdom and accomplish anything that pleases God.

Receiving the Holy Spirit: Stage Two

The most critical path into the Kingdom of God is the indwelling of the Spirit of God within the new believer. Only the Spirit opens the communication channel to hear God, understand God, and have access to the Throne of God as a child of the Kingdom. I hope to impress on you just how vital this is. Without the Holy Spirit, there is no rebirth, no access to the Kingdom, no adoption as children of God, and no ability to produce fruits of good works that please God. Without the Spirit, you are locked out (1 Corinthians 2:14–16; Romans 8:8–9).

With such importance, one should wonder why there is little emphasis on this in many Protestant and Catholic churches. How did the Holy Spirit become a ritual, a relic, a catechism, an object that has no direct impact on the believer other than an assumption? The Lord Jesus Himself clearly indicated that unless one is born of the water and the Spirit, they cannot enter the Kingdom of God (John 3:5). This is an extremely weighty matter and should not be ignored but highly emphasized. I have written a number of articles on Medium about this and will not repeat them here. I will, however, mention one article for a deeper conversation on this topic.

Stepping Out in Faith: Stage Three

The enemies of the gospel and the message of our Lord Jesus are many and powerful. They have laid traps and set a variety of opposition to destroy the faith of anyone not filled with, and following, the Spirit of God within. Some believe you need only the Bible, but as I stated earlier, the Bible itself has become a battlefield of confusion and discord. While its message is perfectly suitable and in harmony with the Spirit, it alone—without the Spirit—will not provide sufficient support to withstand the assaults of the world. It is one thing to have the right equipment (Ephesians 6:10–18; 2 Timothy 3:16–17), but only if you have the ability to put the equipment on correctly and use it.

I share a special mystery I have learned from the Spirit—faith builds faith, and faith leads to more experiences with God and the unseen.

Jesus describes faith as a small mustard seed, which grows to a large leafy shrub reaching heights of 3 to 9 feet. The seed is so small that it is microscopic. Matthew 17:20 tells us even such a tiny amount of faith can move mountains. So, how little is the faith of a new believer? The importance of this is that faith starts small but builds up over time as the believer learns that acting in faith produces results. In an article I published yesterday on Medium, I described the faith of Abraham after receiving the command of God to leave his home and extended family to go where God would later show him. The point is that Abraham had precious little information to act on, but he obeyed the message.

Abraham stepped out in an act of faith, and from that time onward he experienced more encounters with God, and he saw the glory of the Kingdom his distant descendant would bring into the land of promise. As Abraham continued to follow God’s instructions, he experienced further revelations and blessings, such as the promise of descendants and the covenant of land, each encounter reinforcing his relationship with God. These experiences illustrate how Abraham’s faith started small but grew as he acted upon God’s word, leading to greater spiritual maturity and fulfillment of God’s promises. Abraham met God face-to-face (Genesis 18:1–2) and the future High Priest of God, Melchizedek (Genesis 14:17–24). We know little about these encounters, but in time Abraham was no stranger to experiencing God on higher levels because he walked out in faith. He even saw the future of the land he dwelled on in tents that would become the paradise of God and his physical and spiritual descendants.

Many Christians today fail to see, or have, any experiences or encounters with God. Some would not even know if they had one. It is interesting that the Bible presents characters who have remarkable encounters with God—encounters that seem extremely lacking in today’s world of faith. I do not claim encounters are not happening, but to many people who claim faith, they experience little of God’s presence. Some believers rationalize this based on a denominational perspective and are predisposed to accept minimal or no special encounters outside sacramental and ritual observations. The Holy Scriptures provide no direct indication of this abandonment other than a lack of genuine faith (James 2:14–26; James 1:5–8).

When a believer acts on faith—even in insignificant things—it provides a foundation for greater accomplishments and increases the amount of faith and reliance on God. This process continues to build faith grows, and through faith come higher levels of encounters with God. This is the process of growth for a true believer, and it does not happen quickly or easily. God tests faith so it may be genuine. The greater the faith, the harder the test. This is the refinement under fire that produces humility, purity, and total dependence on God (Zechariah 13:9; Malachi 3:3; 1 Peter 1:6–7; Isaiah 48:10; Psalm 66:10).

God is faithful and never gives His child more than their level of faith can bear (1 Corinthians 10:13). So, if we remain infantile with little faith, we are not tested with hard measures other than to desire the Holy Scriptures and guidance of the Holy Spirit so we might grow. Testing does not necessarily imply worldly challenges and difficulties, but these can be part of it, provided these experiences are part of the growth God desires for you.

Many times, sadly, we miss God’s messages to us. This is likely if the believer is not connected to the Holy Spirit and has not learned the numerous ways God communicates. One of the more subtle forms is when you face an experience and later see God’s hand in it and how it helped you. Causes and events are like blank charts to God, and He shapes events for His purposes. He does use dreams, but many are not straightforward and involve symbolism that may require further spiritual understanding based on experience. The key fact is that God, the Spirit, does communicate and will direct your path if you are open to Him and have faith.

Pride—the Hidden Trap

A really serious problem for believers growing in faith and experiencing spiritual insights or miracles is pride. Those with greater displayed gifts can become proud and see themselves as superior to other believers. The more a gifted person receives, the more pride becomes a trap. The Scriptures give us examples such as Samson and King Solomon. Both were given extraordinary spiritual gifts. Both Samson and King Solomon serve as notable biblical examples of individuals who, despite being specially chosen and blessed by God, eventually fell from favor due to pride. Samson, endowed with extraordinary strength and set apart as a Nazirite from birth, repeatedly disregarded God’s commandments and relied on his own abilities. His downfall came when he revealed the secret of his strength to Delilah, leading to his capture by the Philistines (Judges 13–16). Ultimately, Samson’s pride and lack of self-control resulted in his tragic end, though he was granted one final act of deliverance by God.

King Solomon, celebrated for his wisdom and for building the Temple in Jerusalem, also fell victim to pride. Over time, Solomon’s heart turned away from God as he amassed wealth, power, and foreign wives, who led him into idolatry. Despite God’s warnings, Solomon’s prideful decisions resulted in the division of the Kingdom after his death and the loss of God’s favor (1 Kings 3–11; Nehemiah 13:26). Both stories underscore how pride can distance even the most gifted individuals from God, serving as cautionary tales for all believers. For the gifted, it is critical to be watchful for the quiet creeping of pride; it is best to focus your gifts as a servant—lower than others—and use your spiritual abilities to help those less gifted. This is the only way to avoid the trap of pride, which leads to sin and destruction.

Conclusion

I have attempted to define the pathway for the true believer to advance in faith, leading to greater experiences and demonstrations of the power of God—the Spirit working in their lives. There are many more things of God to learn and experience, but all are contingent on faith. Where does faith lead the individual? Only God knows, but it will never conflict with a direct testimony in Scripture.

True believers must be cognizant that gifting does not make one greater, nor does it assure an ultimately higher positioning within the Kingdom of God. It can become a curse if mismanaged. The more that is given, the more is expected (Luke 12:48), and the purpose of any gift from the Lord is to be shared. It’s not a possession; it’s God’s grace, and He has a purpose for its use.

What is your willingness to obey?

Summary

This document explores the nature of faith and commitment, focusing on the willingness to obey God’s commands. It highlights Abraham as a central example, detailing his journey from Ur, his struggles with doubt and fear, and his ultimate obedience when asked to sacrifice Isaac. Through Abraham’s story, the text illustrates that faith often requires unwavering trust, facing uncertainty, and making sacrifices, while also acknowledging the very human challenges believers encounter both in ancient times and today.

Introduction

Scripture contains many compelling stories of faith, bravery, and dedication. There are also stories of great failures and falling away. Some who fall away do so after gaining great advantage and guidance from the Lord. The New Testament book of Hebrews, chapter 11, provides a profile of great believers who performed great feats of faith and trust in the Lord—some would say to an extraordinary level. Sometimes, God requires the same level of dedication and risk from the modern-day believer.

Example of Incredible Faith — Abraham

In this discussion, I will focus on a few examples that have implications for our modern era. I will start with the father of the Hebrews—Abram.

Abraham, originally called Abram, is first introduced in the Old Testament as a resident of Ur of the Chaldeans. God called him to leave his homeland, his relatives, and his father’s house and journey to an unknown land that God would show him (Genesis 12:1–4). This initial act of obedience marked the beginning of Abraham’s faith journey, as he trusted God’s promise to make him a great nation despite not knowing his destination.

During his journey, Abraham faced numerous challenges and moments of doubt. He struggled with fear when famine struck the land of promise, prompting him to temporarily relocate to Egypt, where he resorted to deception to protect himself and his wife, Sarai (Genesis 12:10–20). Later, he wrestled with uncertainty about God’s promise of offspring, especially as he and Sarai grew older and remained childless. Abraham’s attempts to fulfill God’s promise on his own, such as having a son, Ishmael, with Hagar, reveal his very human doubts and impatience (Genesis 16).

Despite his imperfections and moments of fear, Abraham continually returned to trusting God. His willingness to obey reached its peak when God asked him to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice, a test of faith that Abraham passed by demonstrating absolute trust in God’s goodness and provision (Genesis 22:1–18). Abraham’s journey highlights the reality of faith: it involves obedience, struggles, doubts, and reliance on God’s promises.

(References: Genesis 12; 16; 22.)

Abraham was not an extraordinary human, and like us, he wrestled with human frailties, including doubt and fear. Still, he followed God’s command as it was given to him, even though most of humanity—especially in Ur, the center of idolatry—did not know God. We cannot determine how God revealed Himself to Abraham the very first time—was it a vision, a voice, a dream, or an unction? What we do know is that an unknown God called him to leave his ancestral land, his father, his people, and to journey out to an unknown destination.

There was precious little direct communication between Abraham and God during the journey. One has to wonder how he told his wife that they were going to simply “pack up and go.” Imagine the questions Sarai must have had—even the thought that her husband had lost his mind. Carry that forward to today’s Western thinking and consider how such news would go over in your family. Most would see their beloved spouse settle firmly on a “No” and tell you to go alone—or seek psychiatric care. Now, that is just the beginning. Consider the questions: “How will we take care of ourselves?” “How will you provide for the family?” “We would lose everything!” “I didn’t believe I married a fool!” and many other statements, perhaps in an extremely high-pitched voice.

Keep in mind: you told your spouse that an invisible God told you to leave and did not say where you were going. All you could say is, “I don’t know.” Let this stew around in your mind for a bit; as you can see, such a calling could end everything you ever accomplished—cost you your family, your job, your reputation, your means of survival—everything.

Implications and Consequences

I know I would be nearly paralyzed going out without knowing where I was going. Do I go east, west, north, or south? How far will a tank of gas take me (or one electric charge for an EV)—better yet if you have a hybrid. I do not write this as a joke or to make sport of the situation, but quite the opposite. I actually know how such a situation feels. For me, it cost my marriage, my daughter, my home, vast suffering, endurance, and a sense of major loss. The gory details I will leave for another day, but like Abraham, I have come to know that the calling was exactly what I was meant to do. Much good has come because of it, and God blessed me with peace, took care of my needs, and sent me a wife who was more patient and dedicated to stay with me—no matter where I go.

Over the past week, at the invitation of a major national organization, I was asked to come and speak to future leaders entering my profession. During the panel presentation, I was asked, “Do you have any regrets about the decision you made in starting your journey?” Immediately, I said, “No. I have no regrets about my journey, as it was my calling—the purpose I was created to fulfill in my life’s journey.” That statement is true. I indeed suffered a lot during the process, and I shudder thinking about how I survived it all. Still, God was gracious and took care of me, and when I finished the course, he gave me rest. I do know fear, doubt, and pain, but when I look back, I know Jesus was there, carrying me all the way.

Like me, Abraham suffered and faced losses. He made some bad decisions (some that continue to this very day—the Middle East conflict). Still, Abraham always turned back to God and never completely lost hope. That brings us to consider the unique attributes of both Abraham and Sarah. While Abraham trusted God and followed God’s instructions—albeit with some difficulties—he never abandoned the Lord or complained to Him, unlike the children of Israel during their long march out of Egypt. Sarah (Sarai) obeyed her husband and followed him in obedience. She too is considered among the blessed heroes of Hebrews 11:11 and 1 Peter 3:5–6. It should be noted, however, that Sarah’s qualities would not be a welcomed example for many women in Western society. The nature of Abraham’s and Sarah’s relationship fulfilled God’s commands (Ephesians 5:22; Colossians 3:18; 1 Peter 3:1; 1 Timothy 2:11–12; Genesis 3:16; Titus 2:5; 1 Corinthians 14:34).

While neither Abraham nor Sarah were perfectly obedient, they maintained an overall trust in God—and for this, God declared them righteous (Romans 4:3). This is a particularly important distinction. When Sarah was told in her old age that she would have a child, she laughed (Genesis 18:12–15). When Abraham was told he would have a son, he took Sarah’s handmaid (an Egyptian slave) and conceived a child through her (Genesis 16:3). These actions do not reflect strict obedience or belief, as the natural state of reality and their cultural worldview influenced their choices. Likewise, today’s culture and human reasoning influence true believers and can lead them to stray from God’s intent.

Efforts to Improve God’s Commands

Sadly, being human creates obstacles to perfection. We can read or hear perfectly clear instructions and rearrange them in our minds. We can hear one thing and totally misunderstand it, interpreting it based upon our reasoning and our understanding of how things are done in this world. Great biblical examples of this include the stories of the first king of Israel—Saul—and Judas Iscariot. Both were blessed to hear and learn God’s purpose, and the Holy Spirit was with them, but each took opportunities to digress from God’s plan and, in doing so, caused great pain and destruction. I will not go into a deep discussion of that in this writing, but I do encourage you to read their stories in Scripture.

The warning in straying away from God’s intent is that the believer will face many frustrating hardships, misery, and pain while trying to improve God’s perfect plan—which can lead to disaster, a disaster that could have been avoided. Israel wandered forty years in the desert of Sinai because of constant complaining and a desire to fix things themselves (Golden Calf), or a failure to act out of fear when told to be bold (giants in the land). God hates doubt and followers who lack trust and, in their minds, assemble their own plots and plans to make God’s perfect will “even better”—worse still, to continue to question His Word (James 1:5–8; 2 Corinthians 11:3; Proverbs 2:3–8; Colossians 2:8; Ephesians 4:14; Revelation 3:15–16).

Why are these teachings important today?

There has been, and will be, a point when true believers will be told to flee away from increasingly sinful humanity—a time when God’s patience runs out. Jesus warned his disciples what they needed to recognize when the time had come in Matthew 24:16–28. We know from history that if the church in Jerusalem had failed to do so, they would have been trapped within the walls of Jerusalem as the Roman army marched around the city and laid siege, starving those left inside. Those who fled took the gospel message throughout the Roman Empire and to the rest of the world, fulfilling the great command of Jesus (Matthew 28:19). Scripture does not tell us whether any believers remained within Jerusalem and became trapped inside—the conditions of being trapped were extreme and horrible.

When the Roman army surrounded Jerusalem in 70 CE, the city endured devastating conditions. The siege led to severe food shortages, resulting in widespread starvation and desperation among the inhabitants. Historical accounts describe violence within the city as rival factions fought for control, further worsening the chaos. Disease spread rapidly due to overcrowding and unsanitary conditions, and many people resorted to extreme measures for survival. The Roman forces breached the city walls, leading to massive destruction, the loss of thousands of lives, and the destruction of the Second Temple. These events marked a catastrophic turning point for Jerusalem and its people, as recorded by contemporary historians such as Josephus.

Scripture warns of the coming of a comparable situation where true believers will have to flee—Babylon the Great (Revelation 18:4). Like the disciples of old, there will come a point when remaining within the fallen world system of corruption will require true believers to make a choice: stay within the worsening system of corruption and become trapped within it, taking the mark of the Beast and becoming associated with the sins of Babylon, or flee quickly with little advance notice.

I spent time creating the understanding that true faith requires decisions that will go against cultural, societal, and rational norms. Still, God will accept no other option than to walk out in faith—without necessarily knowing where you are going, as he told Abraham and Sarah. Jesus adds additional weight to this in Matthew 10:37–39: “Whosoever loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And whosoever does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me. Whosoever finds his life will lose it, and whosoever loses his life for My sake will find it.”

It is interesting that we read the wonderful deeds and endurance of faith by the saints of old, yet we fail to see that the same requirements are also meant for us. Today, there are extreme difficulties in listening to the voice of the Lord. The enemy has worked hard over the centuries to lay traps and barriers: the plethora of churches that spring up daily with different teachings, the many conflicting voices, the rise of false prophets, and a rising global population with constant chatter and influence. The world is getting extremely noisy. On top of this, there are factions within Christianity that deny the continuing voice of the Holy Spirit in guiding the church of God. So, the question is: How will we know the voice of God when the time to act has come?

There is little doubt about the chaos that will occur when one hears and obeys while others debate and argue in denial. Truly, as Jesus said, one will be left and the other will be taken (Matthew 24:40). Some see this as a sign that God will collect one and leave the other—which serves as a passive event not requiring a choice. This is not the only perspective. Testing will come, and it begins in the house of faith (1 Peter 4:17); there is no passive path to salvation. Tough decisions remain, and more will come. What will we do in preparation for the separation of the goats and the sheep? Where will you stand?

Things to Come!

Summary

This document discusses the escalating global tensions, especially involving America, Israel, and Iran, as significant signs of the end times according to biblical prophecy. It outlines the events described in the Book of Revelation, such as the breaking of the seven seals and the rise of the “Man of Sin,” emphasizing the progression from war and chaos to natural disasters and spiritual decline. The narrative highlights that these developments set the stage for final judgment and urges readers to recognize these prophetic milestones as the fulfillment of Scripture.

Introduction

When America and Israel entered into conflict with Iran, it felt as though a pivotal and historic moment was unfolding. This event seemed destined to alter the course of history and initiate a series of developments leading toward the ultimate conclusion of the age. The sense of significance was not based on a new prophecy, but on the biblical expectation of the downfall of a wicked era.

Now, with the conflict reaching its thirteenth day, a domino effect has begun to take shape. The Bible foretells a sequence of major events that led up to the end of time. Among these are widespread wars and conflicts involving nations such as Israel, America, and Iran, marking a turning point in historical events. As global unrest intensifies, the world experiences a domino effect resulting in social collapse and heightened instability. These developments ultimately set the stage for the emergence of the “Man of Sin,” also known as the Beast, whose appearance marks the culmination of the age and fulfills biblical prophecy regarding the fall of the wicked world.

The Signs Emerge

The Book of Revelation outlines a series of striking events that begin with the breaking of seven seals, each representing a distinct phase in God’s plan for the end times. The first four seals release the Four Horsemen, symbolizing conquest, war, famine, and death. The fifth seal reveals the souls of martyrs seeking justice, while the sixth seal brings cosmic disturbances such as earthquakes and darkness, signaling the approach of final judgment. The opening of the seventh seal introduces a period of silence in heaven and initiates further judgments, including the sounding of seven trumpets that escalate chaos and drive the unfolding of prophecy.

These events, described in Revelation chapters 6–8, act as prophetic milestones for the end of the wicked age. They illustrate the progression toward worldwide turmoil and the fulfillment of biblical prophecies. Understanding the breaking of the seven seals is crucial for comprehending the sequence of divine interventions that shape the final days as depicted in Scripture.

The signs begin with war and conquest, then progress to famine and rising prices, followed by pestilence and starvation, resulting in widespread death. These stages represent the first four seals of the scroll, leading to God’s judgment.

During these times, chaos starts to escalate. The apostle Paul asserts that there will be a falling away of professing Christians and a surge in lawlessness (2 Thessalonians 2:3). Jesus adds that betrayals will increase, false prophets and claimants to being Christ will multiply, famines and earthquakes will arise, and the love of many will grow cold (Matthew 24:4-13). Deteriorating conditions will prompt desperation and fuel lawless behavior. As turmoil intensifies, the faithful will face hostility, and churches of those who persevere will enter tribulation (Matthew 24:9).

Jesus sets forth specific conditions for when these events will reach their conclusion:

· The gospel is preached to the entire world (Matthew 24:14).

· A period of great tribulation is shortened by God (Matthew 24:21-22).

· Immediately after the tribulation, cosmic signs of judgment begin (Matthew 24:29).

· Jesus is revealed and sends his angels to gather the elect after the tribulation of those days (Matthew 24:30-31).

Jesus does not provide detailed descriptions of the great tribulation, other than its evil and lawless nature and the requirement that the elect must endure hostilities. The apostle Paul elaborates on the tribulation with the unveiling of the Man of Sin (2 Thessalonians 2:3–8), explaining that growing discord and increasing lawlessness facilitate the revealing of this beast-like figure. Amid confusion, the beast rises, claiming to be Christ, attempting to win the allegiance of people who lack guidance in difficult times. Paul notes that the beast is ultimately vanquished by Jesus at his appearance and the brightness of his coming (2 Thessalonians 2:8). The Revelation provides further detail on the tribulation period during which the beast rules (Revelation 13–14). The scriptures also portray the martyrs rising in white robes dipped in Christ’s blood (Revelation 7:14–17), specifically emerging during the great tribulation, not beforehand.

Paul describes the strange behavior and inability to reason among humanity as the result of a great delusion that falls upon those who reject Christ’s call (2 Thessalonians 2:11–12). Those under this delusion are captivated by the beast’s false miracles and wonders, drawn into the vision he presents, which is particularly effective for those lost to God’s teachings (2 Thessalonians 2:9–10). As a result, people will act and behave differently than they did previously.

Tribulation Saint

In dispensational teaching, a “tribulation saint” is someone who comes to faith in Jesus Christ during the Great Tribulation, which follows the rapture of the church. These individuals, unlike church-age believers, are not part of the church believed to be taken up before the tribulation. Instead, they endure hardship, persecution, and judgment during this turbulent time, maintaining their faith in God despite severe opposition and suffering.

Scriptural references for tribulation saints are commonly found in Revelation. Revelation 7:9–17 describes a multitude from every nation standing before the throne in white robes—identified as those “who have come out of the great tribulation” (Revelation 7:14). Revelation 13:7 also mentions the persecution of saints by the beast, implying the presence of faithful believers during the tribulation. These passages are cited to support the idea that people will turn to Christ and be saved during this period, even as they face intense trials and martyrdom.

The issue arises from the dispensational claim that the Holy Spirit is removed from the earth, revealing the Man of Sin, and with the removal of the Holy Spirit, the church is also taken away due to the pre-tribulation rapture. If the Holy Spirit is absent, what enables those in the tribulation to come to faith? There are no teachers, preachers, or churches, and access to biblical materials—whether written or electronic—is purged under the rule of the Antichrist, the Beast.

If the Holy Spirit is removed, conversions to Jesus cease, and the age of the Gentiles ends—unless believers remain alive during the tribulation and continue to preach the word until the end. This explains why saints are seen rising out of the tribulation as martyrs for their testimony. Thus, scripture repeatedly encourages the elect believers to “Stand Firm” (2 Thessalonians 2:14–15; 1 Corinthians 16:13–14; 1 Corinthians 15:58; 1 Peter 5:9; Ephesians 6:11–13; Philippians 1:27).

Conclusion

Identity bias is deeply ingrained, linking personal beliefs about the Great Tribulation to one’s sense of self. Arguments rarely sway those who are firmly rooted in their expectations. Even opposing evidence may strengthen their resolve, as if their very life depends on defending their belief. Though this is not fundamentally problematic, there is concern that some will become discouraged if they endure tribulation after believing they would be spared. This disappointment may contribute to the great falling away, or apostasy, predicted to occur during those times.

Historical precedent exists for this pattern. Early Christian martyrs faced tribulation and saw many believers abandon their faith when confronted with the choice between death or renouncing their testimony. Some later repented, but not all churches welcomed them back. Church leaders debated whether public denial of Jesus could be forgiven, causing early splits within Christian communities during and after Roman persecution.

• The Novatianist Schism (3rd Century):

During the Decian persecution (ca. 250 AD), many Christians denied their faith to avoid execution. After the persecution, some sought to return to the church. Novatian, a Roman presbyter, argued that those who had lapsed should not be readmitted, while Pope Cornelius and others advocated for restoration after sincere repentance. This disagreement resulted in the Novatianist Schism, with Novatian forming a separate, stricter Christian community.

• The Donatist Controversy (4th Century):

After the Diocletian persecution (early 4th century), controversy arose over clergy who had surrendered sacred texts or denied Christ under threat. In North Africa, the Donatists insisted that lapsed clergy were unworthy to perform sacraments, while the wider church, led by Augustine of Hippo, maintained that the validity of sacraments did not depend on the minister’s purity. This disagreement caused a major schism, with the Donatist church lasting for centuries.

These examples illustrate how apostasy—public denial of Jesus—leads to division and lasting consequences. Jesus warned that those who deny him will be denied before the Father in heaven (Matthew 10:33–35). This is a weighty matter, deserving serious reflection. During the Great Tribulation, believers who turn away will not be able to return. They will fall under the same delusion as unbelievers and be subject to God’s wrath.

Angels of Light: National Mindset and Values Conflict

Summary

This document explores the challenges of Christian discipleship in the context of Western world values, focusing on how deceptive appearances and shifting national mindsets contribute to societal unrest and moral decay. It warns against the dangers of equating outward appearances with true character, highlighting how evil often masquerades as good and exploits societal divisions for power and control. The text calls for discernment, unity, and overcoming evil with good, emphasizing that true threats to peace are often hidden behind appealing facades and manipulative leaders.

Introduction

Satan, the prince of the power of the air, controls the minds of all who are not under the lordship of Christ. This reality helps explain the persistent lack of safety—and the constant unrest—so evident in the world. Our minds are continually assaulted and seeded with misguided ideas that may appear good on the surface yet yield hideous evil and death (Proverbs 14:12–16; Proverbs 16:25). Many human practices and philosophical leanings are therefore tainted by fallen moral principles and fail to deliver what they promise.

The Prophetic Challenge

“Woe to those who devise wickedness, and work evil on their beds! When the morning dawns, they perform it, because it is in the power of their hands. They covet fields and they seize them, and houses, and take them away; they oppose a man and his house, a man, and his inheritance.” Micah 2:1 – 2 ESV

America is undergoing a near-dystopian level of change—unlike anything experienced since the Civil War. If we are not careful, divisive tactics could set the stage for another Civil War, or worse. This is how evil divides and conquers: by turning a community, a nation, or even the world against itself, creating confusion and an environment of fear. Fear breeds desperation and awakens survival instincts, which drive deeper wedges into society. Once a slide toward national collapse begins, it can become a self-propelling cycle toward ruin, war, and death.

Many—most—Americans are increasingly frustrated yet paralyzed about how to reverse the cycle of decay in our nation. Scripture tells us not to overcome evil with evil, but to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). It is folly to attempt to overthrow a corrupt power by direct force; such tactics bring misery and death. Worse, they feed the very beast we long to defeat.

Scripture warns that appearances can deceive; you cannot know a person’s true nature by outward demeanor or confident speech. The apostle Paul tells us that the devil disguises himself as an angel of light—and that his ministers can disguise themselves as well (2 Corinthians 11:14–15). One of the Western world’s enduring mistakes, reinforced by art since the Middle Ages, has been to portray Satan and his spiritual followers as red, leathery, horned, pointed-tailed creatures, contrasted with blond, blue-eyed angels in white robes and feathery wings. This contrast is not only false; it also trains the mind to assume that good and evil are easy to identify—simply by how someone looks.

Often, the features of evil look ordinary and may even appear charming. Too often, the Western world selects leaders not by qualifications, but by public appeal—along with promises crafted to fit popular perceptions of “good” policy. This is a grave weakness. It was only a matter of time before our form of governance was exploited by nefarious figures—well positioned to conceal their true aims and seize control of the public narrative. Such figures are “beasts” that seek to dominate and devour. Western culture also rewards competitiveness and the drive to win at all costs; a “winners take all” mindset, joined to our own selfishness, becomes our undoing.

What the Beast Craves

The beast of evil—and those he rules—has many cravings, but chief among them is domination and control. Power is its lifeblood; every tactic and motive aims at gaining more of it. Nothing threatens a beast like a unified people living in harmony. Peace is despised, and for corruption to spread, peace must be shattered. Power is gained by sowing disharmony and fostering pockets of resistance while quietly plundering wealth and freedoms from people set against one another. The true enemy remains hidden while attention is redirected to inflame passions.

The beast delights when social order collapses and desperation sets in. The apostle Peter reminds us that compassion must mark those who follow Jesus—never returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling (1 Peter 1:8–9). In that light, anything that inflames discord and division becomes a source of strength for the beast of evil. This is one way to discern an agent of chaos from someone who builds and strengthens a society or nation. Both may claim to improve conditions, but one actually sacrifices to do so, while the other does not. One accepts blame for failure; the other assigns blame to others for every mistake. As Jesus said, “the thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10 NIV

Deception in Disguise

I cannot overemphasize the call to resist deception—even the deception of the heart. Within Christianity, certain extreme views arise from deception. There are many forms, and they are beyond the scope of this writing, but some of the more common examples include the following:

· Pre-tribulation rapture (Matthew 24:29–31)

· Disconnecting the teachings of Paul from Jesus (Colossians 1:28; Philippians 1:15–18; Acts 28:30–31; Galatians 1:11–12; 1 Corinthians 11:23; Ephesians 3:3–4; Galatians 1:16–17)

· Preaching “love only”: universalism, no obedience needed, and even denying Jesus—teaching that everyone is saved regardless of their path toward enlightenment (John 14:6)

I focus on these deceptions because they often arise from understandable motives. For example, the pre-trib rapture view can function as a way to avoid suffering for the faith or facing tribulation (John 16:33; James 1:2–4, 12; Romans 5:3; Revelation 7:14; Matthew 24:29; Romans 12:12; Daniel 12:7; Revelation 14:12).

The impulse to disconnect Paul from the gospel is understandable: Paul addresses sexual sins, including proper gender conduct, and he affirms the Old Testament’s moral law against homosexuality and same-sex acts (Romans 1:26–28; 1 Corinthians 6:9; 1 Timothy 1:10). He also teaches clearly on the spiritual roles of men and women in the church and in marriage (1 Timothy 2:11–15; 1 Corinthians 14:34–35; 1 Corinthians 11:5; Ephesians 5:22–33; see also 1 Peter 3:1–7).

The common factor in each case is this: these teachings are unpleasant, and they call us to change from within—because a fleshly lifestyle is not compatible with the requirements of faith. It is far easier to argue, to search for loopholes, and to rationalize than it is to obey (as humanity does with every law and regulation). Some become experts at finding excuses. The same dynamic can appear in Christian nationalism and in the desire to be treated as better than others. These impulses are fueled by preference and desire. We even justify what we know is evil, so long as we believe it will benefit us. This is the fruit of fallen human nature.

True believers must learn obedience and keep their minds on Jesus and the Scriptures, rather than join the din of discourse and the legal maneuverings of a selfish heart. The time has come to name these things plainly, face the truth, and abandon masquerade and confusion. We must become bold and steadfast; this is the only way to stand in faith under tribulation and to walk with Christ when the smoke clears.

Is Faith Always A Celebration?

Summary

This document explores the complexities of faith, challenging the notion that belief is always a source of joy and celebration. It examines how guilt, anxiety, and fear often accompany faith, drawing examples from both the Old and New Testaments, including prophets, biblical figures, and Jesus himself. The text highlights that struggles, distress, and feelings of abandonment are normal experiences for believers, not signs of weak faith. Ultimately, it emphasizes the importance of honesty about spiritual struggles, recognizing that faith is often strengthened through adversity and that God remains faithful even in times of confusion and hardship.

Introduction

A large number of believers feel they must always maintain a positive attitude and a strong belief that better days are ahead. Modern Christian writings often intertwine the themes of joy, happiness, and faith, emphasizing that scripture compels believers to have joy in Christ—a message reinforced throughout the New Testament. However, there are other messages in scripture that portray believers experiencing anxiety and sadness, which are often overlooked. The Old Testament prophets, for instance, were among the saddest characters, as the messages they delivered were not welcomed by their audiences. The prophecies of Jeremiah, Isaiah, Ezekiel, and the minor prophets like Amos, Micah, Joel, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Zachariah, and Malachi all warned of destruction and desolation, yet they also pointed toward a distant hope.

Many holy people from past generations found themselves distressed and overwhelmed by doubts. Yet they persisted in seeking the Lord, asking for guidance during difficult times, and even begging Him to calm their spirits and ease their doubts. This raises the question: Is it common to experience such struggles, or are they signs of weak faith?

Struggling with the Weakened Flesh

True believers are divided beings, indwelled by the Spirit of Christ but also carrying the fallen flesh. These two natures are in constant conflict within us, and no matter how diligently we strive to suppress the flesh, it finds ways to reveal itself—even in the most faithful believers. Even Jesus, whom believers aim to follow, experienced the weakness of the flesh, despite having complete assurance and no doubt about His ministry and purpose. The Gospels recount moments of intense spiritual testing for Jesus, especially during the temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11), which represented internal threats: the possibility of choosing a different path or abandoning God’s mission. In Gethsemane, Jesus experienced deep anguish and wrestled with the cost of His mission (Matthew 26:36-46). His prayer, “Let this cup pass from me,” demonstrates that He was not immune to doubt or fear. As both God and human, Jesus felt the full weight of human weakness. The thought of the cross—its humiliation, pain, and rejection—was so overwhelming that He nearly died from the strain. Had He died then, He would not have completed God’s plan of redemption. Though He did not fail, believers should recognize that they too will face moments of severe testing and stress, which may not be joyful and can be deeply distressing. At times, it can feel as though God has abandoned us. Just as the moon hides the sun during an eclipse, negative powers and spiritual forces can temporarily cloud our connection to the Lord, but only for a time.

Life for the believer can be compared to footprints in the sand: at times, there are two sets of footprints, but suddenly, only one set appears. In moments of distress, believers may cry out to God, “Why have you abandoned me?” God’s response is that the visible prints are His, as He was carrying the believer throughout those difficult times. It is our weakness that makes it impossible to walk on our own, and God lifts us up while we cry and plead not to be abandoned. Scripture contains many verses about crying out to God in distress.

Throughout the Bible, many characters faced deep distress and the fear of abandonment. David frequently cried out to God in despair, asking, “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” (Psalm 13:1). After his victory over the prophets of Baal, Elijah fled in fear and isolation and prayed, “I have had enough, Lord...take my life” (1 Kings 19:4). In the Book of Job, Job lamented his suffering and felt forsaken, saying, “I cry out to you, God, but you do not answer; I stand, but you merely look at me” (Job 30:20). Even Jesus, on the cross, echoed this sentiment with the words, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). These examples show that distress and the feeling of abandonment are recurring themes among biblical figures, reminding us that faith is often forged in times of struggle.

None of these examples are failures of faith; rather, they are demonstrations of faith under pressure, pushing fleshly limitations nearly to the breaking point. Still, God is faithful and will not allow us to face more than we can handle with His help (1 Corinthians 10:13). These stories remind us that God remains in control, regardless of our confusion.

A sincere testimony of a believer struggling with the concept of death as the gateway to resurrection can be found at this link. This account is genuine and not masked by artificial Christian candor. One of the most important things a believer can do is to be honest about their struggles, rather than trying to impress others by hiding the truth. God knows our hearts and sees through us—we cannot hide anything from Him.

Fear of the End of Time

There is a growing sense of distress among believers that the end times may be near. Many writers address this topic from different perspectives, but views that present a distressful image are quickly dismissed. Few want to believe they will face tribulation. Some Christian groups have developed elaborate interpretations of scripture to provide themselves with a way out—to escape suffering and death—through the popular concept known as the Pre-tribulation Rapture. This belief, which I and others have discussed as a misconception, reflects a pro-Western idea of ease and the avoidance of suffering simply because one professes faith in Jesus. It suggests that believers will avoid persecution and testing just by believing, but this teaching dilutes the true message of the gospel, which holds that to experience death is gain (Philippians 1:21) and to suffer for Christ is also beneficial (Romans 5:3-4; James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 2:21; 2 Corinthians 1:5). The promise of the gospel and the Resurrected Christ is not the avoidance of suffering and death, but the power to face and endure them.

I have written many messages about the approaching end times. I admit that I am not enthusiastic about the idea, and in my flesh, I do not look forward to the increasing confusion and breakdown of societal norms that will affect the Western world. The image of the Four Horsemen in Revelation 6:1-5 fills me with dread. I foresee spreading warfare, disrupted food supplies and famine, escalating plagues like COVID-19 and worse. All of this will lead to greater conflicts and a growing coldness in human hearts, making the burning cities of the 1960s seem minor in comparison. Looting, rising hostilities, and the fragmentation of humanity into opposing groups and marauding gangs will terrorize urban areas. This vision is overwhelming, and I confess that I feel frightened and anxious.

Preparation

I write about these matters because I see daily how our nation and society edge ever closer to chaos and disorder. As the prophet Hosea stated, “my people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being a priest to me. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I will also forget your children.” Hosea 4:6 ESV.

Some may claim that I use prophecy out of context, since Hosea was specifically addressing Israel’s disobedience to the Laws of Moses. From a strictly contextual perspective, this is true. Yet the words of God are spiritual and can apply to many nations and circumstances where people turn away from God’s ways and ignore His mercy. Societies that have grown proud, wealthy, and exploitative of the poor are not immune to God’s judgment. Those who claim greatness may become the least, and their wealth will go to those who have none. This reflects the nature of the Lord of Hosts: any land that claims a special place under God while disregarding His commands is a prime target for His wrath. As John the Baptist said, And even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire.” Matthew 3:10 ESV.

However, for the remnant of true believers, this is a sign of salvation to come if we endure until the very end—even if that means death. Death remains the greatest obstacle, including the suffering that precedes it. Fear is the tool of evil that makes us tremble at the thought. As I grow older, the reality of death becomes more immediate. I remember when I both feared and avoided death, eager to experience all that life had to offer—a sentiment typical of youth. But the true believer must prepare to let go of worldly things and set their minds on the days beyond this mortal life, seeking glimpses of the coming kingdom of Christ.

It is true that scripture does not provide a complete vision of the restored kingdom to come. We are given only glimpses—bits and pieces that do not fully satisfy our longing to know what life without sin, evil, and death will be like. Therefore, I believe it is time for us to seek a clearer vision and pray that the Holy Spirit will open our eyes, allowing us to experience this hope in our hearts and sustain us as the present reality fades. I pray this for all who are sealed by Christ and will enter the Kingdom. Amen!

Speaking Truth and Persecuted

Summary

This document explores the story of Amos, a prophet who faced opposition and persecution for delivering God’s troubling messages of judgment to Israel. Despite not being a professional prophet but a humble herdsman, Amos was chosen by God to confront the nation’s idolatry and warn of impending disaster, exile, and the silence of God’s voice. The narrative highlights the political and religious corruption of the time, the consequences of forsaking true worship, and the recurring biblical theme of the “Day of the Lord” as a day of divine reckoning.

Introduction

The Book of Amos tells the story of a prophet who was ordered to keep silent. This incident is found in Amos 7:10-17. Amos was not known for delivering pleasant messages; instead, his prophecies were troubling to those in positions of power, as he foretold disaster for Israel. One striking example of his warnings is: “the high places of Isaac shall be made desolate, and the sanctuaries of Israel shall be laid to waste, and I will rise against the house of Jeroboam with the sword.” Amos 7:9 ESV These words deeply disturbed King Jeroboam, who ruled the northern ten tribes of Israel separated from Judah. Jeroboam consulted Amaziah, the idolatrous priest of Bethel, who then confronted Amos and told him to stop upsetting the king and the people. Amos went so far as to predict Jeroboam’s death by the sword and Israel’s exile from their land (Amos 7:10).

Not a Prophet

Amaziah labeled Amos as a “seer” or prophet and urged him to leave Israel and prophesy only in Judah, never to return. Amos replied that he was not a prophet by profession but rather a herdsman and a caretaker of sycamore trees (Amos 7:14). Amos’s vocation was not prophecy; nonetheless, God called him to leave his herd and deliver a message to Israel. Amos had no intention of pursuing a prophetic career and would return to his former work once God released him. The lesson is that God chooses whom He wills to deliver His messages, regardless of job or title.

To grasp the significance of this exchange, it’s crucial to understand the background. Amaziah was a priest, but not one dedicated to God. King Jeroboam, fearing that his people might return to Judah to worship in Jerusalem’s Temple, established a false temple and encouraged idolatry to redirect loyalty. Such actions are typical when new leadership fears losing influence due to lingering attachment to previous traditions. Leaders often create counterfeit alternatives and claim divine authority, drawing from neighboring pagan practices.

Because of this shift toward idolatry, Amos was sent to announce God’s judgment. He repeated Amaziah’s command to leave, then pronounced judgment on Amaziah himself (Amos 7:17).

Proclaiming God’s Words

In Amos chapter 8, God reveals to Amos what will befall Israel, painting a vivid picture of devastation and scattered bodies. God’s judgment targets Israel’s actions—oppressing the needy, dishonest trade, and selling the poor for trivial goods. Amos then describes the coming Day of the Lord (Amos 8:9-14). The minor prophets frequently mention the Day of the Lord as a prophetic interruption. God’s warning is repeated, with specific destruction aimed at particular groups. In Amos, God declares that Israel—the northern ten tribes—will be removed and never rise again (Amos 8:9-14). God will cease speaking to these scattered people; He will send no prophets or messages. They will wander, seeking God but never finding Him. To this day, the northern ten tribes have never returned as a people to their land.

Minor Prophets on the “Day of the Lord”

• Joel 1:15 – “Alas for the day! For the day of the Lord is near, and as destruction from the Almighty it comes.” (Joel 1:15)

• Joel 2:1-2 – “Blow a trumpet in Zion; sound an alarm on my holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of the Lord is coming; it is near, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness!” (Joel 2:1-2)

• Joel 2:11 – “The Lord utters his voice before his army, for his camp is exceedingly great; he who executes his word is powerful. For the day of the Lord is great and very awesome; who can endure it?” (Joel 2:11)

• Joel 2:31 – “The sun shall be turned to darkness, and the moon to blood, before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes.” (Joel 2:31)

• Joel 3:14 – “Multitudes, multitudes, in the valley of decision! For the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision.” (Joel 3:14)

• Amos 5:18 – “Woe to you who desire the day of the Lord! Why would you have the day of the Lord? It is darkness, and not light,” (Amos 5:18)

• Amos 5:20 – “Is not the day of the Lord darkness, and not light, and gloom with no brightness in it?” (Amos 5:20)

• Obadiah 1:15 – “For the day of the Lord is near upon all the nations. As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head.” (Obadiah 1:15)

• Zephaniah 1:7 – “Be silent before the Lord God! For the day of the Lord is near; the Lord has prepared a sacrifice and consecrated his guests.” (Zephaniah 1:7)

• Zephaniah 1:14 – “The great day of the Lord is near, near and hastening fast; the sound of the day of the Lord is bitter; the mighty man cries aloud there.” (Zephaniah 1:14)

• Zephaniah 1:18 – “Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them on the day of the wrath of the Lord. In the fire of his jealousy, all the earth shall be consumed; for a full and sudden end he will make of all the inhabitants of the earth.” (Zephaniah 1:18)

• Zephaniah 2:2-3 – “Before the decree takes effect—before the day passes away like chaff—before there comes upon you the burning anger of the Lord, before there comes upon you the day of the anger of the Lord. Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, who do his just commands; seek righteousness; seek humility; perhaps you may be hidden on the day of the anger of the Lord.” (Zephaniah 2:2-3)

• Malachi 4:5 – “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes.” (Malachi 4:5)

The Day of the Lord

The great day is described repeatedly throughout scripture. The minor prophets alone provide numerous references that, when combined, support John’s vision in Revelation. In Zephaniah 2:2-3, those who might avoid the coming Day of the Lord are described as humble, obedient to God’s commands, and seeking righteousness. This idea is echoed in Revelation 3:10, 7:3, 9:4, and 1 Thessalonians 5:9. These references show that Days of the Lord have occurred as isolated events in history. The northern tribes of Israel were lost forever as a nation. Such events bring devastation, and ultimately, these days will culminate in the final and greatest Day of the Lord, when all nations and those who resist God will be removed. Throughout history, nations have risen and fallen; some return in new forms, but many, like Babylon, Assyria, Rome, and the Medo-Persian Empire, disappeared for good. As an example for today, America might note the reference to Persia, now known as Iran.

God Hates Idolatry!

The central theme of the Old Testament is that God hates all forms of idolatry—anything placed above Him. Idolatry takes many forms, both ancient and modern. In biblical times, it meant worshiping carved images or deities made from wood, stone, or metal, such as the golden calf or the gods of neighboring nations. Today, it can be seen in prioritizing wealth, power, or relationships above devotion to God. Material possessions, career ambitions, or celebrity culture can become idols when they overshadow spiritual values. Anything that distracts from or replaces God’s rightful place is idolatry, whether tangible or intangible.

Scripture consistently warns against all forms of idolatry, emphasizing God’s demand for undivided loyalty. “God hates all forms of idolatry. That means anything taken as more important than Him.” This includes not only ancient practices but also subtle, everyday ways people elevate their desires or influences above God. In the Western world, this issue is especially challenging, and addressing it often comes across as harsh. America is filled with idols, many of which go unrecognized. This blindness exposes the nation to God’s potential wrath. Failing to identify and warn against these idols is unwelcome, and like Amos, those who speak out may be silenced.

Common American idols include wealth, success, and personal freedom. Wealth becomes an idol when the pursuit of money and possessions overshadows relationships, ethics, or spiritual commitments. Success, defined by career status or social recognition, turns into idolatry when self-worth depends entirely on achievements, leaving little room for humility or gratitude.

The pursuit of personal freedom is also idolized, with individual autonomy sometimes prioritized over community well-being or moral accountability. Celebrities and influencers can become idols when their opinions and lifestyles are emulated to the point of replacing personal values or critical thinking. These things are overvalued when they distract from spiritual priorities and take on a central, almost sacred, role in people’s lives. Often, these terms seem abstract and do not connect as something for which we are responsible; that blindness puts us at risk.

A difficult example of idolatry can come with the desire for public office or a managerial position. Success in these roles may begin well, but over time, one may encounter unlawful, harmful, or dishonest practices. Exposing such actions risks immediate dismissal. As a public servant, revealing wrongdoing can lead to exclusion or ruin. Remaining silent allows the cycle of wrongdoing to continue. As a believer, the question arises: what should you do?

Thoughts of family dependence on income, or the status and respect gained, make it tempting to ignore wrongdoing. However, remaining faithful to Christ means not ignoring evil occurring under your watch—whether you approve it openly or silently. Leadership, even passive, implies involvement.

The moral dilemmas in these situations are immense, but in a culture obsessed with competitive advantage and wealth, such compromises are increasingly normalized. It is nearly impossible to avoid such situations if one seeks advancement. Ignoring them can lead to self-deception, feeling justified and still accepted by Christ and the church. Scripture warns that “a little leaven leavens the whole lump” (Galatians 5:9). Small infractions eventually corrupt morals and blind us to further sin.

Conclusion

Like Amos, being a messenger of bad news is never welcomed, even within the churches. It’s one of the most intensely difficult callings of all. You do give up everything and pick up the burden of the cross. It can and will eventually cost you everything in this current evil world order.

Many believers may not recognize their own moral compromises. Those who do often wrestle with fear and doubt, missing out on the joy of walking with Christ and the refreshment of the Holy Spirit. It is possible that many Americans who claim to be faithful Christians are, in fact, practicing a form of idolatry. The higher our living standards, the more morally compromised we may become (1 Timothy 6:10), and the harder it is to escape.

The Day of the Lord stands as a warning: repent and let go of anything you value more than serving Jesus. Stop pretending all is well and humble yourself to be counted among those who escape the wrath of the Day of the Lord.