Showing posts with label signs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label signs. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 5, 2021
Birth Pangs and Appointed Times*
There is an increased amount of signs of the (end) times: Pestilence, increased wickedness, etc.. These signs that have been prophesied in scripture are like the birth pangs of the return of the Lord. Birth pangs are an indication that you are about to be delivered when they occur in the natural, and the same is true in the Spirit. However, the Church has for the most part ignored these signs and appointed times of the Lord's return.
As Jesus met with His disciples after His resurrection and gave to them The Great Commission, it was at an appointed time and place: "Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain, where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. And Jesus came and spake unto them saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world (age)." (Mt. 28:16-20). Even while seeing Jesus at this appointed time and place on the mountain in Galilee, we notice that some of the disciples doubted. Doubt and unbelief are also present today in the Church regarding the return of Christ.
Regarding another appointed time and place, Jesus assembled with His disciples, and instructed them to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit to come upon them, as promised by the Father (Acts 1:4-5). They began to question Him if it was at this time that He would restore the Kingdom. He answered, "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." (v. 7-8). While the disciples did not receive a specific date regarding the restoration of the Kingdom of God from Jesus, the fact that He spoke of the future outpouring of the Holy Spirit in answer to their question, connected the outpouring and the coming Kingdom. This meant that the outpouring was both a sign, and an enpowerment of them to do the work of The Great Commission, that Jesus had spoken to them about earlier (see Mt. 28 above). After speaking with them, Jesus then ascended into heaven into a cloud from the mount upon which He had met them, Mt. Olivet. Two men in white apparel then said to the disciples, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven." (v. 9-12). This is the appointed place of the return of the Lord, from the clouds onto the Mount of Olives, not only as promised at this time by the two men in white, but as prophesied in both the Old and New Testaments.
On an earlier occasion when questioned about the timing of His return and the end of the age, Jesus began describing to His disciples, again from the Mount of Olives, the signs or "birth pangs" that would indicate that the appointed time was approaching (Mt. 24:3). Jesus again said that only His Father knew the day and hour, "But as the days of Noe (Noah) were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be." (v. 36-39). Jesus described the wicked in Noah's day being removed. He then described a similar and specific removal that will take place before His return (v. 40-41). This "removal" was taught by Jesus to be of the same kind as experienced by the wicked during the flood. Up until that moment in Noah's time, life continued "as usual", with most being unaware that the moment would soon be upon them. His warning regarding this appointed time: "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come...Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as you think not the Son of man cometh." (v. 42,44). Since most of the Church today lives as if Jesus is not about to return, this again is one of the signs of the appointed timing of His return. This kind of indifferent attitude, along with getting caught up with the wickedness and cares of this world, causes that day to come upon you unawares (Lk. 21:34). Jesus describes it as a "snare" that will come upon all of them that dwell upon the face of the whole earth (v. 35). "Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man." (v. 36). When warning of these things, Jesus taught in the temple during the day, and dwelled upon Mount Olivet at night.
The Jewish understanding of the history of man on the earth is broken down into 2,000 year periods totaling 6,000 years, as patterned after the six days of creation, and a seventh day of rest, which is also referred to by the Apostle Peter (2 Pet. 3:8): First 2,000 years= Age of Chaos, before the Torah; Second 2,000 years= the Age of the Torah, and living by the Law; Third 2,000 years= the Age of Messiah. The last 1,000 years is the Sabbath rest of the Kingdom. The prophet Daniel also wrote of the events of the last days, even specifically in numbers of years, and even days. As he prophesied the events, Daniel was told, "...for the time appointed, the end shall be", and "...the time of the end, because it is yet for a time appointed." (Dan. 8:19, 11:35).
The end time events that we are now seeing, and the return of Jesus Christ, are not set for a vague time in future history, but these things are set for an appointed time, even appointed specific places, as spoken by the apostles, prophets, and Jesus Himself, so that God's people will be aware and prepared. We are not meant to be overtaken, indifferent, ignorant, or spiritually asleep regarding these apponted times and places.
*Based upon Dr. Kenneth E. Stevenson's 5/2/21 message to the Church.
To contact: PO Box 154221, Waco, TX, 76705 OR Everlastingcovenant@ymail.com
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Tuesday, November 19, 2019
Signs*
In several Gospel accounts, even after Jesus performed miracles of healing and deliverance from demonic oppression, He was confronted by the religious people of the day, the Pharisees and Sadducees, with the demand to show them a sign from heaven (Mt. 12:38, Mt. 16:1). Jesus characterized this demand as being evidence of a wicked, evil, and adulterous generation:
"But he answered and said to them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall be no sign given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." Mt. 12:39-40, see also Mt. 16:4, Lk. 11:29)
Christ's reference to the prophet Jonas spoke of His resurrection, since Jonas prayed to God from the place of death, or Sheol, while in the belly of the great fish, and was subsequently expelled from there alive.
The religious people's demand for a sign was not done in the search for truth, but rather to foster accusation and challenge. God is not opposed to supplying signs. The signs were already rampant around them, having been supplied by the Father, as confirming works of the Son. Healing, deliverance, the raising of the dead, and many more events were all signs to those who would see. Jesus exposed this hypocritical attitude regarding signs by saying to them:
"When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?" Mt. 16:2-3
The apostles wrote of the signs to watch for in the latter days. Many of the signs deal with the behavior we see now around us:
"This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent (without self control), fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God; having the form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." 2 Tim. 3:1-5
We are seeing the increase of all of these things listed above. In this same letter, Paul talks about the persecution that he experienced for faith in Christ, and warned that all who believe in Christ will experience the same:
"Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived." v. 12-13
We have seen believers persecuted, prosecuted and sued for standing firm in what their faith in Christ tells them is godly and righteous. Paul tells Timothy to continue to stand in what he has learned from Paul, and from the scriptures (v. 14).
Events earlier in this present generation, as well as currently, are signs that have been provided by God for us if we are willing to see. We have seen a progressive descent into darkness and witchcraft. In 1963, atheist Madalyn Murray O'Hair successfully challenged prayer in schools in the courts, resulting in prayer being removed from our schools. Harry Potter novels, directed especially toward children, used authentic witchcraft spells in theirs plots. Satanic and demonic statues have been displayed in our cities. The statue of Baphomet depicting a horned deity with two children at its feet gazing at it with adoration, has been displayed in Detroit, and in front of the Arkansas Capitol Building in protest against the display of the Ten Commandments on Capitol grounds. The Arch of Baal (a demonic deity who demanded the sacrifice of children by fire) has been displayed in Washington DC, New York City, London and Dubai. This week, a statue of Molech was placed in front of the Coliseum in Rome, which was the ancient site of the martyrdom of Christians. In ancient times, the statue of Molech would be heated to high temperatures and then children would be laid upon it alive, to be scorched to death. These statues have been used to raise funds in support of abortion on demand.
About the worship of the demon Molech, the LORD says in Leviticus 20:
"...Whosoever he be of the children of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn in Israel, that giveth any of his seed unto Molech; he shall surely be put to death: the people of the land shall stone him with stones....because he hath given of his seed unto Molech to defile my sanctuary, and to profane my holy name...And if the people of the land do any ways hide their eyes from the man when he giveth his seed unto Molech... then I will set my face against that man, and against his family, and will cut him off, and all that go a whoring after him, to commit whoredom with Molech, from among their people." (v. 2-5)
Like those who challenged Christ for signs, has the Church refused to see the signs that have already been given to us by God? Has the Church also turned its eyes from the increasing demonic wickedness prevailing today, refusing to acknowledge the sin, and the implication of that sign before us? It is dangerous to do so, because we then become equally guilty as an evil generation that asks for a sign, while ignoring the signs that are plain in front of our eyes for those who are willing to see.
*The above is based upon the 11/17/19 message to the Church from Dr. Kenneth Stevenson.
To Contact/Submit prayer requests/Support the ministry/Order the book, "NAZAH-White Linen and the Blood of Sprinkling", and to help us get out the message:
Dr. Stevenson's newest book is now available:
"But he answered and said to them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall be no sign given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." Mt. 12:39-40, see also Mt. 16:4, Lk. 11:29)
Christ's reference to the prophet Jonas spoke of His resurrection, since Jonas prayed to God from the place of death, or Sheol, while in the belly of the great fish, and was subsequently expelled from there alive.
The religious people's demand for a sign was not done in the search for truth, but rather to foster accusation and challenge. God is not opposed to supplying signs. The signs were already rampant around them, having been supplied by the Father, as confirming works of the Son. Healing, deliverance, the raising of the dead, and many more events were all signs to those who would see. Jesus exposed this hypocritical attitude regarding signs by saying to them:
"When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?" Mt. 16:2-3
The apostles wrote of the signs to watch for in the latter days. Many of the signs deal with the behavior we see now around us:
"This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent (without self control), fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God; having the form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." 2 Tim. 3:1-5
We are seeing the increase of all of these things listed above. In this same letter, Paul talks about the persecution that he experienced for faith in Christ, and warned that all who believe in Christ will experience the same:
"Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived." v. 12-13
We have seen believers persecuted, prosecuted and sued for standing firm in what their faith in Christ tells them is godly and righteous. Paul tells Timothy to continue to stand in what he has learned from Paul, and from the scriptures (v. 14).
Events earlier in this present generation, as well as currently, are signs that have been provided by God for us if we are willing to see. We have seen a progressive descent into darkness and witchcraft. In 1963, atheist Madalyn Murray O'Hair successfully challenged prayer in schools in the courts, resulting in prayer being removed from our schools. Harry Potter novels, directed especially toward children, used authentic witchcraft spells in theirs plots. Satanic and demonic statues have been displayed in our cities. The statue of Baphomet depicting a horned deity with two children at its feet gazing at it with adoration, has been displayed in Detroit, and in front of the Arkansas Capitol Building in protest against the display of the Ten Commandments on Capitol grounds. The Arch of Baal (a demonic deity who demanded the sacrifice of children by fire) has been displayed in Washington DC, New York City, London and Dubai. This week, a statue of Molech was placed in front of the Coliseum in Rome, which was the ancient site of the martyrdom of Christians. In ancient times, the statue of Molech would be heated to high temperatures and then children would be laid upon it alive, to be scorched to death. These statues have been used to raise funds in support of abortion on demand.
About the worship of the demon Molech, the LORD says in Leviticus 20:
"...Whosoever he be of the children of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn in Israel, that giveth any of his seed unto Molech; he shall surely be put to death: the people of the land shall stone him with stones....because he hath given of his seed unto Molech to defile my sanctuary, and to profane my holy name...And if the people of the land do any ways hide their eyes from the man when he giveth his seed unto Molech... then I will set my face against that man, and against his family, and will cut him off, and all that go a whoring after him, to commit whoredom with Molech, from among their people." (v. 2-5)
Like those who challenged Christ for signs, has the Church refused to see the signs that have already been given to us by God? Has the Church also turned its eyes from the increasing demonic wickedness prevailing today, refusing to acknowledge the sin, and the implication of that sign before us? It is dangerous to do so, because we then become equally guilty as an evil generation that asks for a sign, while ignoring the signs that are plain in front of our eyes for those who are willing to see.
*The above is based upon the 11/17/19 message to the Church from Dr. Kenneth Stevenson.
To Contact/Submit prayer requests/Support the ministry/Order the book, "NAZAH-White Linen and the Blood of Sprinkling", and to help us get out the message:
Dr. Kenneth Stevenson
P.O. Box 154221
Waco, TX 76705
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
http://endtimeschool.com/
P.O. Box 154221
Waco, TX 76705
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
http://endtimeschool.com/
To watch/hear Dr. Stevenson's complete message:
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
Prayer of Salvation for all who desire to receive Jesus as their Savior: Lord Jesus, I desire to know You, and to know Your salvation. I believe that You died for me, and that You were resurrected for me. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart, change me, fill me with Your righteousness. Inscribe my name in the Lamb's book of life. Baptize me in Your Holy Spirit, so that I can learn the truth of Your Word and ways, and be strengthened in my walk all the days of my life. You are the hope of my life, and You are my eternal life. I place my trust in You, Lord, for myself, and my whole household. Use me to do the will of the heavenly Father, Who sent You, in Whose name You came. In Your name, and in thanks and praise I pray, Amen.
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
Prayer of Salvation for all who desire to receive Jesus as their Savior: Lord Jesus, I desire to know You, and to know Your salvation. I believe that You died for me, and that You were resurrected for me. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart, change me, fill me with Your righteousness. Inscribe my name in the Lamb's book of life. Baptize me in Your Holy Spirit, so that I can learn the truth of Your Word and ways, and be strengthened in my walk all the days of my life. You are the hope of my life, and You are my eternal life. I place my trust in You, Lord, for myself, and my whole household. Use me to do the will of the heavenly Father, Who sent You, in Whose name You came. In Your name, and in thanks and praise I pray, Amen.
To order "NAZAH": https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8 http://endtimeschool.com/
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
Ready or Not!*
The signs of the End Times are lining up very rapidly, and it is both dangerous and foolish to ignore them. Recently, we have seen that Iran, or Persia as it was called by the prophets, has been engaged in aggressive activities. Ezekiel 38 foretold of the nations, including Persia, that would be brought into conflict in the Last Days. Jesus warned against not being prepared as we see the signs. He told a parable of ten virgins, shown above, five of whom were wise because they were prepared for the coming of the bridegroom, and five who were foolish because they had failed to properly prepare. All ten fell asleep, however, which is the condition of the Church today. Wake Up, Church! The Bridegroom is coming. It is not only time to wake up, but it is time to make sure that we are prepared for the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. His Bride is clothed in the pure white linen of righteousness, and it is without spot or wrinkle, without blemish (Rev. 19:7-8).
Jesus said that His return would be similar to the conditions that were present in the days of Noah, as the flood judgment was about to be released (Mt. 24:36-44). No one knows the exact day or hour of its coming, only the heavenly Father knows. While Noah was faithfully preparing the ark of deliverance for the coming unknown day and hour, those around him were still engaging in everyday worldly behavior: eating, drinking, marrying. Noah's preparation of the ark was a testimony and witness to them, a sign, which they ignored. Our preparation as believers is also a testimony and a sign to the world to "get ready". The world looks and thinks, "If the Church is not preparing, why should we?"
Our position as believers should automatically differentiate us from the world's view. Paul wrote:
"If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantegeth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for tomorrow we die. Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. Awake to righteousness, and sin not: for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame." 1 Cor. 15:32-34
Because we have knowledge of God, because we have received the good news of the resurrection of Christ, we should not be sharing the world's attitude of business as usual.
Jesus told the parable of a rich man who stored up his wealth, and said to himself:
"...take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry." Unfortunately for this man in the parable, his soul was to be required that very night. God told him that he was a fool. He had not prepared properly in those things that would have made a difference to his eternity. Jesus concluded: "So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich towards God."
Lk. 12:19-21
Is the Church being rich towards God, or towards itself and to the enjoyments and requirements of the world? Now is not the time, when we see the signs, to take our ease, to put our feet up.
The prophet Isaiah revealed a similar word to the people of God:
"And in that day did the LORD God of hosts call to weeping, and to mourning, and to baldness, and to girding with sackcloth: And behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing sheep, eating flesh, and drinking wine: let us eat and drink; for tomorrow we shall die. And it was revealed in mine ears by the LORD of hosts, Surely this iniquity shall not be purged from you till ye die, saith the LORD God of hosts." Isa. 22:12-14
As the prophet wrote, God is calling His people to repentance and serious prayer, but His people are not heeding the call. They are investing themselves in enjoyments and feasting, as if they have no knowledge that there is an eternity ahead for which to prepare themselves. Especially during these fall feast days, it is a time to turn to Him. The signs are warning us that the time grows short.
Paul reminded the Church that the day of the Lord comes as a thief in the night, without warning. It is therefore necessary to know "the times and the seasons". Sudden destruction will come when many believe that there is peace and safety. However, that day is not to come upon God's people like those who sleep at night, who are drunken and oblivious at night, but upon a people awake and prepared:
"Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore, let us not sleep, as do others, but let us watch and be sober...let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for a helmet, the hope of salvation. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord, Jesus Christ, who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him." 1 Thess. 5:1-10.
Paul also exhorts for us to esteem very highly those who labor at spiritual work for us in these matters, those who are over us to guide us (v. 12-13).
Jesus told His disciples the various signs of the End Times, a revelation that was opened to them by the offering of a poor widow giving all that she had. The signs that Jesus prophesied included deceptions of false prophets, and false Christs, commotions, wars among kingdoms, nations (ethnicities and races), earthquakes, famines, pestilences, fearful sights, signs in the heavens, persecutions: "and it shall turn to you for a testimony". We will have to testify by what the Holy Spirit places in our mouths to speak in that hour. Have you sought this infilling presence of the Holy Spirit, who is promised and available to all believers in Christ? Even in persecution to the death, yet Jesus says, "but there shall not a hair of your head perish." (Lk. 21:1-19). We taste but the shadow of the valley of death because of Him. We are not destroyed by death, nor captives of Hell.
As Jesus continued His description of the signs to come in these End Times, He concluded:
"Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape (Grk: ekpheugo: flee out of, safety in flight, to be saved by flight, to vanish) all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man." (v. 36).
"Escape" is not guaranteed. Jesus says that to attain that escape, we must remain in a state of watchful, praying readiness.
To Contact/Submit prayer requests/Support the ministry/Order the book, "NAZAH-White Linen and the Blood of Sprinkling", and to help us get out the message:
Dr. Kenneth Stevenson
P.O. Box 154221
Waco, TX 76705
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
http://endtimeschool.com/
P.O. Box 154221
Waco, TX 76705
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
http://endtimeschool.com/
To watch/hear Dr. Stevenson's complete message:
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
Prayer of Salvation for all who desire to receive Jesus as their Savior: Lord Jesus, I desire to know You, and to know Your salvation. I believe that You died for me, and that You were resurrected for me. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart, change me, fill me with Your righteousness. Inscribe my name in the Lamb's book of life. Baptize me in Your Holy Spirit, so that I can learn the truth of Your Word and ways, and be strengthened in my walk all the days of my life. You are the hope of my life, and You are my eternal life. I place my trust in You, Lord, for myself, and my whole household. Use me to do the will of the heavenly Father, Who sent You, in Whose name You came. In Your name, and in thanks and praise I pray, Amen.
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
Prayer of Salvation for all who desire to receive Jesus as their Savior: Lord Jesus, I desire to know You, and to know Your salvation. I believe that You died for me, and that You were resurrected for me. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart, change me, fill me with Your righteousness. Inscribe my name in the Lamb's book of life. Baptize me in Your Holy Spirit, so that I can learn the truth of Your Word and ways, and be strengthened in my walk all the days of my life. You are the hope of my life, and You are my eternal life. I place my trust in You, Lord, for myself, and my whole household. Use me to do the will of the heavenly Father, Who sent You, in Whose name You came. In Your name, and in thanks and praise I pray, Amen.
To order "NAZAH": https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8 http://endtimeschool.com/
Tuesday, September 10, 2019
Dorian - A Sign??*
The Bahamas, and to a lesser extent, the eastern seaboard of the United States, just experienced the fear and destruction of Hurricane Dorian. Those who experienced loss in this storm are in our prayers. The Greek root of the name "Dorian" can mean "a gift", or, important for our understanding, "a child of the sea".
In discussing the End Time tribulation with His disciples, Jesus mentioned in three similar Gospel accounts, unusually violent natural events, among other things, which would occur before His coming. (Lk. 21, Mk. 13, Mt. 24):
"And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh...when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. Verily I say into you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled." Lk. 21:25-28, 31-32
Before these signs would begin to take place, Jesus described Jerusalem as "trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled." (v. 24). Israel is no longer occupied by Gentile nations. Jerusalem is no longer occupied by the Gentiles, and even the Temple Mount in Jerusalem is no longer under the control of non-Jews. This means that these end time events described by Christ are for this time, as we currently see, and ongoing into the future, pointing us to the day that He appears in the cloud.
Other signs, besides great storms in the sea, mentioned by Christ in these passages also include other events of which we have seen a great increase in number and intensity:
- deception by false Christs, and those preaching that Christ is or has returned in fleshly form, and can be found at various locations
- earthquakes
- famines
- persecution of believers
- warfare among nations and among races
Again, we are seeing all of these signs occurring today. False doctrines and false prophets are deceiving many, even the elect, if possible. Earthquakes have multiplied in number. Famines and diseases are spreading across nations. Believers are persecuted severely in many parts of the earth, and even in this country, one may face legal and social penalties for standing firm in faith, and scripture. Wars, and ethnic violence have spread throughout the globe. Overt and violent racism is in our headlines daily in incidents too numerous to count, some involving even the loss of life.
What is the believers purpose in this time of these manifesting signs? Jesus makes clear what is expected of us. As we see these signs, of which fierce hurricanes and storms are one, we are to be alert, watchful, and praying. We are not to be caught up in the cares of this world, but sober and attentive to the things of spiritual importance, "that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man." (Lk. 21:34-36). However, we are not only to be concerned for ourselves in this manner, but Jesus expects more:
"Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour when you think not the Son of man cometh. Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made him ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods." (Mt. 24:44-47).
God foreknew us, even before our parts were formed in or mothers' wombs, while there was nothing of us to be seen (Ps. 139). He has even written all things concerning us in His Book. He sees the paths in which we walk. Nothing regarding us is hidden from Him. Those of us born into the generation that is seeing these things come to pass, have been given the commission to preach the Gospel, to provide spiritual meat in this season, to bring forth the saving truth without compromise, in an age when the truth is being denied every day. God is not willing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance, and we each are to play a vital role in that. This ministry plays a vital role, and needs to continue to be able to bring the timely truth, the meat, to all who have ears to hear. You can help us do that.
As we see the signs mount and tribulation increase, and the moment of Christ's return is upon us, He will send His angels to gather His elect with a great sound of a trumpet (Mt. 24:31) from the heavens to which we have been caught up to meet Him (1 Thess. 4:16-17). Up until that very moment, we have been given a purpose here on earth for this time, ordained for us before we were even formed.
*The above is based upon the 9/8/19 message to the Church from Dr. Kenneth Stevenson.
To Contact/Submit prayer requests/Support the ministry/Order the book, "NAZAH",
Help us get out the message:
Dr. Kenneth Stevenson
P.O. Box 154221
Waco, TX 76705
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
http://endtimeschool.com/
Help us get out the message:
Dr. Kenneth Stevenson
P.O. Box 154221
Waco, TX 76705
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
http://endtimeschool.com/
To watch/hear Dr. Stevenson's complete message:
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
Prayer of Salvation for all who desire to receive Jesus as their Savior: Lord Jesus, I desire to know You, and to know Your salvation. I believe that You died for me, and that You were resurrected for me. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart, change me, fill me with Your righteousness. Inscribe my name in the Lamb's book of life. Baptize me in Your Holy Spirit, so that I can learn the truth of Your Word and ways, and be strengthened in my walk all the days of my life. You are the hope of my life, and You are my eternal life. I place my trust in You, Lord, for myself, and my whole household. Use me to do the will of the heavenly Father, Who sent You, in Whose name You came. In Your name, and in thanks and praise I pray, Amen.
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
Prayer of Salvation for all who desire to receive Jesus as their Savior: Lord Jesus, I desire to know You, and to know Your salvation. I believe that You died for me, and that You were resurrected for me. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart, change me, fill me with Your righteousness. Inscribe my name in the Lamb's book of life. Baptize me in Your Holy Spirit, so that I can learn the truth of Your Word and ways, and be strengthened in my walk all the days of my life. You are the hope of my life, and You are my eternal life. I place my trust in You, Lord, for myself, and my whole household. Use me to do the will of the heavenly Father, Who sent You, in Whose name You came. In Your name, and in thanks and praise I pray, Amen.
To order "NAZAH": https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8 http://endtimeschool.com/
Thursday, August 1, 2019
Selah*
"Selah" is a term used mostly in the Psalms. We usually interpret this word to mean "pause, and calmly think about that". It is a musical term, as the Psalms are meant to be sung. It is a musical rest, a silence when the singer pauses to create an emphasis on a section or phrase that has just been sung. "Selah" can also mean to lift up, to exalt.
While many wondered if recent past conflicts, such as the Gulf Wars, might have been the Armageddon of which the scripture prophesies, a cataclysmic war that will involve all the nations of the earth, the nations prophesied had not lined up. However, as we will see, the signs now point to the fact that the war that is called Armageddon, with its destruction, is coming - soon. We will see that the scriptures state that it is already accomplished in God's eyes, a foregone conclusion. As this is the case, it becomes time for us to "selah" on these signs, and prepare ourselves spiritually for this unavoidable event:
"For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty....And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon (Heb.- mountain + place of crowds; gather in troops or crowds, to penetrate, cut, attack, invade, to cut oneself)." Rev. 16:14, 16
Leaders and peoples are convinced of the necessity to gather for battle because of the deceiving work of evil spirits. However, this is also the fulfillment of the will of God. What the demons and men sought as the destruction of Israel, and God's people, God would use to judge their wickedness:
"And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done." v. 17 (See also Rev. 21:6)
This great battle also fulfills the prophetic word of God. It could not have been fulfilled before this time, because the nations were not aligned and moving together as prophesied as we see today. The prophets warned thousands of years previously that this day of battle and judgment would come in the latter years (Ezek. 38:8, 16):
"And I will turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of the clothed with all sorts of armour, even a great company with bucklers and shields, all of the handling swords." Ezek. 38:4
This group of nations is specified by Ezekiel. Principally, they will involve areas now associated with Russia and those nations to the north of Israel, known in these scriptures as the chief prince Gog, who is over Magog, Meshech (drawing out) and Tubal (thou shalt be brought) (Ezek. 38:2). Joining these northern nations according to the prophetic word to Ezekiel will also be Persia (Iran), Ethiopia (incl. parts of Sudan), Libya, Gomer ("bring to an end, be no more", a northern people incl. Turkey), and Togarmah ("thou wilt break her", which is Turkey/Armenia area) of the north (v. 5-6). We can see from today's headlines that these nations are more closely connected than before in history.
As we saw in Rev. 16, God considers these events already done, and completed. Ezekiel's prophecy also agrees saying: "Behold, it is come, and it is done, saith the LORD God. This is the day whereof I have spoken." Ezek. 39:8
Another sign that this day of judgment and destruction is close at hand, is that this prophesied day is to come after the people of Israel have been brought back to the land that had been laying waste, from out of other nations, but are living there prosperously and securely (Ezek. 38:8, 12, 14-16). This describes the rebirth of the nation of Israel in 1947, and their subsequent prosperity in that land, having turned deserts into producing gardens. They are renown for their security even in the midst of continual surrounding hostility.
Seeing these signs pointing to the soon coming battle and judgment, what should our preparation be? Jesus said that there was a snare coming upon all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth for those who are caught up in the cares and useless things of life (Lk. 21:34-35). Jesus said regarding these events:
"Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man." Lk. 21:36
"Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame." Rev. 16:15
SELAH.
*The above is based upon the 7/28/19 message to the Church from Dr. Kenneth Stevenson.
Dr. Stevenson's newest book is now available:
"For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty....And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon (Heb.- mountain + place of crowds; gather in troops or crowds, to penetrate, cut, attack, invade, to cut oneself)." Rev. 16:14, 16
Leaders and peoples are convinced of the necessity to gather for battle because of the deceiving work of evil spirits. However, this is also the fulfillment of the will of God. What the demons and men sought as the destruction of Israel, and God's people, God would use to judge their wickedness:
"And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done." v. 17 (See also Rev. 21:6)
This great battle also fulfills the prophetic word of God. It could not have been fulfilled before this time, because the nations were not aligned and moving together as prophesied as we see today. The prophets warned thousands of years previously that this day of battle and judgment would come in the latter years (Ezek. 38:8, 16):
"And I will turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of the clothed with all sorts of armour, even a great company with bucklers and shields, all of the handling swords." Ezek. 38:4
This group of nations is specified by Ezekiel. Principally, they will involve areas now associated with Russia and those nations to the north of Israel, known in these scriptures as the chief prince Gog, who is over Magog, Meshech (drawing out) and Tubal (thou shalt be brought) (Ezek. 38:2). Joining these northern nations according to the prophetic word to Ezekiel will also be Persia (Iran), Ethiopia (incl. parts of Sudan), Libya, Gomer ("bring to an end, be no more", a northern people incl. Turkey), and Togarmah ("thou wilt break her", which is Turkey/Armenia area) of the north (v. 5-6). We can see from today's headlines that these nations are more closely connected than before in history.
As we saw in Rev. 16, God considers these events already done, and completed. Ezekiel's prophecy also agrees saying: "Behold, it is come, and it is done, saith the LORD God. This is the day whereof I have spoken." Ezek. 39:8
Another sign that this day of judgment and destruction is close at hand, is that this prophesied day is to come after the people of Israel have been brought back to the land that had been laying waste, from out of other nations, but are living there prosperously and securely (Ezek. 38:8, 12, 14-16). This describes the rebirth of the nation of Israel in 1947, and their subsequent prosperity in that land, having turned deserts into producing gardens. They are renown for their security even in the midst of continual surrounding hostility.
Seeing these signs pointing to the soon coming battle and judgment, what should our preparation be? Jesus said that there was a snare coming upon all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth for those who are caught up in the cares and useless things of life (Lk. 21:34-35). Jesus said regarding these events:
"Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man." Lk. 21:36
"Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame." Rev. 16:15
SELAH.
*The above is based upon the 7/28/19 message to the Church from Dr. Kenneth Stevenson.
To Contact/Submit prayer requests/Support the ministry/Order the book, "NAZAH":
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
http://endtimeschool.com/
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
http://endtimeschool.com/
To watch/hear Dr. Stevenson's complete message:
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
Prayer of Salvation for all who desire to receive Jesus as their Savior: Lord Jesus, I desire to know You, and to know Your salvation. I believe that You died for me, and that You were resurrected for me. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart, change me, fill me with Your righteousness. Inscribe my name in the Lamb's book of life. Baptize me in Your Holy Spirit, so that I can learn the truth of Your Word and ways, and be strengthened in my walk all the days of my life. You are the hope of my life, and You are my eternal life. I place my trust in You, Lord, for myself, and my whole household. Use me to do the will of the heavenly Father, Who sent You, in Whose name You came. In Your name, and in thanks and praise I pray, Amen.
https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8
Prayer of Salvation for all who desire to receive Jesus as their Savior: Lord Jesus, I desire to know You, and to know Your salvation. I believe that You died for me, and that You were resurrected for me. Forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart, change me, fill me with Your righteousness. Inscribe my name in the Lamb's book of life. Baptize me in Your Holy Spirit, so that I can learn the truth of Your Word and ways, and be strengthened in my walk all the days of my life. You are the hope of my life, and You are my eternal life. I place my trust in You, Lord, for myself, and my whole household. Use me to do the will of the heavenly Father, Who sent You, in Whose name You came. In Your name, and in thanks and praise I pray, Amen.
To order "NAZAH": https://twitter.com/everlastingcov8 http://endtimeschool.com/
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