THE LAST DAYS

Anita Clark

“And I am very displeased with the heathen that are at ease; for I was but a little displeased, and they [the heathen] helped forward the affliction. Therefore thus saith the LORD; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies; my house shall be built in it, saith the Lord of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem” – Zechariah 1:15-16.

Israel was brought to judgment by God, when He used Babylon to scatter them and take them captive, and then after the time of Jesus Christ, the nation of Rome to scatter them through out the world. There is more judgment ahead for this little nation, but God will judge the nations for their unjust treatment of Israel.

PALESTINIANS PRESENT ICC REQUEST - The Palestinians formally presented a request to the UN to join the International Criminal Court. They want to join the war crimes court to file charges against Israel for bombing and fighting back against the Palestinians in Gaza, after they sent rockets raining down on Israel last year. If they were allowed to join the CIC, they would bring criminal charges against Israel in the Hague, International Seat of Justice,. Palestinian Envoy Riyad Mansour told reporters, “This is a very significant step. We are seeking justice for all the victims that have been killed by Israel, the occupying force.” No mention is made of the aggression of the Palestinians, against Israel all these years. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon is to review the so-called instrument of accession and notify state members of his decision on the request within 60 days. This move is firmly opposed by the United States. Human Rights Watch legal affairs counsel Balkees Jarrah Ban is expected to certify that the Palestinian documents are in order and that the state of Palestine can join the ICC.

China, France and Russia were among eight countries that backed the resolution on ending the Israeli occupation by the end of 2017, but the result fell short of the nine votes required for adoption. More and more we see the nations turning against Israel, and according to the Scripture in the near future all the nations will turn against them. The Antichrist will appear and drive Israel into violent persecution.

 OTHER SIGNS OF THE END TIME –

POPE FRANCIS VISITS THE GRAND MUFTI AND THE HEAD OF THE ORTHODOX ECUMENICAL CHRISTIAN PATRIARCH - The Pope made a trip to Istanbul, Turkey on November 29th to visited with Islamic Grand Mufti, who is one of the heads of Islam. He urged Rahmi Yaran to condemn the “barbaric violence” being committed in Islam’s name against religious minorities by ISIS in near-by Iraq and Syria. The two prayed together in the famous Blue Mosque. The NEWS/Europe said, “The Pope took off his shoes, bowed his head, and closed his eyes for nearly a minute in prayer alongside an Islamic cleric in a dramatic gesture to reach out to Muslims.”

His next stop was to visit the Orthodox Christian Patriarch Bartholomew I, of which News/Europe states, “The central part of Pope Francis’ three day visit to Turkey is to continue his predecessors’ efforts to end the theological dispute that split the Christian world into the Roman and Orthodox churches.” This split came in 1054 A.D. over doctrine and differences of opinion on the power of the papacy. The two leaders participated in an ecumenical liturgy and signed a joint declaration in the on-going attempt to bridge the divide and reunite the churches. This is a very momentous event, after 974 years, to try to unite the two groups again.

Another incidence which happened recently is Pope Francis’ visit to a Pentecostal Church in the Italian city of Caserta. This was a “Papal first.” “Pentecostal’s are considered to be Catholicism’s greatest competition for Christian souls around the globe,” according to the Associated Press. The AP says, “Speaking to some 350 Pentecostal faithful in the church, Francis apologized for the Catholic persecution of Pentecostals during Italy’s fascist regime, when the practice of their faith was forbidden.”

Just a few months ago some American Charismatic Pentecostal leaders visited Pope Francis at the Vatican. They expressed their “solidarity with the pope, and desire to reunite with the mother Church.”

What is all this about? the unification of all believers (not true ones) is foretold in the book of Revelation. Revelation 13:11-18 tells of the end time religious leader called “the beast out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake like as a dragon.” He is a religious leader who promotes that all worship the first beast, called Antichrist. In the end of this age all religions will unite together. Rev. 13:8 says, “And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the books of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” God only knows true believers, those that are His. In Rev. 18:4 Jesus calls to the believers, “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” This Scripture shows us that there are true believers who are still in the system, who will be led out during the tribulation time.

For some time now we have heard on the news of the assembling together of the Roman Catholic Church with other religious groups. December 22, 2014, Pope Francis met with leaders of different religions in Manila, Philippines. The Philippine Daily Inquirer reports, “Pope Francis would spend some time talking to 10 religious leaders. They are leaders of Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, the Iglesia Filipina Independiente and the Philippine Evangelical Church, UST dean and expert on interfaith dialogue, Lilian Sison, as well as former Chief Justice Reynato Puno, now chair of the Philippine Bible Society. A spokesman said, “Interfaith dialogue is important to the Catholic Church in its fulfillment of the goals of the second Vatican Council which urged the church to be a universal one.”
Can you see how the Scripture is being fulfilled?

During the tribulation there will be one world government and one world religion. We are on the threshold of that time. Look for Jesus Christ to come at any minute. Be ready as Jesus urged His disciples. Have you eyes open to the truth! The signs of the times are rapidly expanding. The child of God has no excuse for not knowing “the times and the seasons.” Jesus is coming very soon.

He Became Poor

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9

We celebrated the birth of our Lord Jesus, remembering His coming to this earth as a baby. The fact that really struck me this year was the thought about Jesus leaving His glory that He had with the Father to condescend to our level. I’m not sure we can really comprehend fully the level of that condescension. Maybe we could think about the richest man on this earth and imagine that one day he lost his entire wealth, including all his property and his reputation. That would still fall very short of comparing to the level of Jesus condescension.

There are many today who would like to change that narrative to tell us that Jesus actually was wealthy while living here (usually prosperity preachers). The truth is that Jesus lived a rather poor life as far as worldly wealth is concerned. “And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.” Matthew 8:20. The wealth of this world was not Jesus’ concern. He came to bring us wealth that endures forever. To set us free from these temporal things that attract humanity.

This is the greatest demonstration of love. Giving up everything to bring us something we could not have attain on our own. Some wealthy men today are willing to give to charity. There is even a challenge among some billionaires to give away half of their wealth. None have given up everything, and even if they did, it would still pale by comparison to what our Lord gave up for us.

Not only did He divest Himself of all His glory to come here, He gave even His very life for us. He came in humility, lived in poverty, died in shame, and yet He is the King of glory. Phillippians 2:5-8.

So, if He became poor that we might be made rich, what exactly are our riches? Firstly, He gave us the power to become children of God. - John 1:12; and joint heirs with Him - Romans 8:17. That should just blow your mind. Jesus is heir of ALL things - Hebrews 1:2. He has blessed us with ALL spiritual blessings in heavenly places - Ephesians 1:3.

I would like to point out that, if Jesus had simply provided us an escape from hell, that would have been a huge thing for us. We would be praising Him just for that, as no one else could even do that for us. All the wealth of this world would not be enough to redeem even one soul from hell. But Jesus did not just barely save our soul from hell, He made it possible for us to have it all. “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:32.

I pray that your understanding is opened to comprehend the amazing Grace of God, and the place that has been purchased for you by Jesus blood. Such a great price to purchase for us such great wealth. We will never be able to cease praising Him for all eternity.

Gordon Crook

RUTH

Debra Isenbletter


Ruth 2:15 – “And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not:”

What did Ruth do? We see what happened after Ruth had a time of nourishment and fellowship. She got up: “And when she was risen up,” this is past tense – this is a word of action – Ruth “stood up,” and she left the table. She did not linger after the meal, there was still daylight, and she still had work to do. Jesus knew the shortness of the time to labor and used every moment, He said: “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work” John 9:4. Ruth had been “sufficed” or “satisfied” and now she was energized! This wasn’t just labor for her own needs now, this was labor for Boaz! Ruth had been “sufficed” and now she was energized! This is what spiritual food and fellowship will do – We are strengthened and given a renewed purpose of heart!

What did Ruth plan to continue to do? Her purpose after she left that table of fellowship and nourishment was “to glean.” She may have sat down at that table weary and discouraged, but she rose up from that table with a renewed purpose of heart. She rose up to serve – to labor – to glean! I believe the order of importance of who she was laboring for changed after that meal. Now, she is laboring for Boaz – he is First. Next, she is laboring for Naomi – she is second. Finally, she is laboring for herself – she is last. That meal gave her a new vision and a new perspective on her labors in that field! She continued on, she did not give up, she did not go home. Boaz’s next words are said after he sees Ruth go back to glean. He sees her renewed purpose of heart and makes additional provisions for her to be blessed because of her willingness to labor. Think about those who are willing to walk miles to meeting to hear the Word, and now we have churches on every corner and transportation to take them to meeting and still many find excuses to not go to church. We labor and glean in so many ways for our Master, for our Boaz, and getting up and going to meeting is part of that willingness to glean. There is a cost in time and in setting aside personal desires but we will glean precious blessings, and take them home with us to nourish us afterwards.

What does Boaz do next to show his continuing, abiding grace? Boaz gives a command to his young men and he tells them what Ruth can do and what they cannot do. “Boaz commanded his young men,” without this command, these men might have discouraged or stopped Ruth. Without this command, Ruth would have gleaned only a small amount. Boaz knows her great need and he is willing to meet her need. He gives her permission to do something no one else can do. He takes away man’s restrictions and the law’s restrictions. This is pure grace, absolute grace, it is grace given to match her need! His command is two-fold; it concerns what she can do and what they cannot do.

Boaz says: “Let her glean even among the sheaves.” This is what she can do. What he is saying is: No man may stop her. The word “sheaf” can mean “a bundle” or “a handful.” The word can also mean “small heaps of cut grain.” The “sheaves” were handfuls or bundles of grain bound together. “Stalks of grain were gathered and tied into a bundle after harvesting. The reapers either gathered the cut grain into sheaves themselves or left it to be collected by the sheaf binder. The sheaves were then gathered into stacks and loaded into carts.” (Nelson Dictionary). By law Ruth was allowed to take up the stray stalks, those that were forgotten (Deut 24:19). Boaz makes allowances for Ruth’s ignorance, her eagerness, her zeal. He lets her gather more than what the law requires. He lets her glean where she is led, where her faith takes her. He lets her pick up whatever she finds, there are no restrictions! This is more than law, this is grace, for this gives her a greater blessing. That is what Grace does. “This was a privilege; for no person should glean till the sheaves were all bound, and the shocks set up.” (Clarke).

Boaz says: “and reproach her not.” This is what they cannot do. What he is saying is: No man may criticize her. The word “reproach” means “to wound,” it means “to make ashamed” or “to put to shame.” Boaz does not want Ruth to be ashamed in any way or hindered in any way. If they criticize her, they will be criticizing Boaz, for he has given his permission. They cannot see the heart of Ruth like Boaz does. Without restrictions and reproach, she will lay hold of what others cannot. This is what grace does for us, it opens up doors to untold blessings. This is the Lord’s promise to us and none can reproach us. We see this same admonition in the words of Jesus to those who would criticize Mary for anointing Him, their criticism was because they thought she had overstepped her place or the boundaries they thought restricted her. Jesus said “Let her alone,” “she hath wrought a good work” (Mk 14:6). He said she saw something they did not, and looked ahead to his burial. (Jn 12:7). Mary Bodie writes concerning this wonderful statement of Boaz: “reproach her not” – “But even this does not exhaust his grace. He is still concerned for her. Like his blessed Anti-type (Christ), he refuses to allow anyone to cast reproach upon the freedom of faith. “Let her alone” is always His admonition. We cannot trust our Boaz too much.”

Finally, I was meditating on what these “sheaves” represent in Boaz’s field. Remember they are small bundles of grain. I think they can represent specific portions of the Word of God, there are “sheaves” of Doctrine, “sheaves” of promises,” “sheaves” of ordinances, just to name a few. We are to glean from every part of the Word, and not just a single scripture here and there, but a series of scriptures bound together that for a specific truth. Paul writes: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Tim 3:16). Therefore, let us gather all the sheaves without fear and in faith. Our Boaz, the Lord Jesus Christ, has given His permission!

THE DISPENSATIONS

Earlene Davis

Third Dispensation: The Age of Human Government

This Age began after the flood, so it is also called Post Diluvian which means after the flood. It ended with the destruction of the tower of Babel (Gen. 8-11). Man’s responsibility during this Age is found in Gen. 9:1 – “…God blessed Noah and his sons, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.”

There was a definite change after the flood, a new beginning, a new Age. The first thing Noah did after the flood was to build an altar and offer burnt offerings unto the Lord. “And the LORD smelled a sweet savour; and the LORD said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for man’s sake; for the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth (in other words he can’t help it); neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done” - Gen. 8:20,21.

It was a wonderful way to start, but it didn’t last that way very long. The next thing we read, “…Noah began to be an husbandman, and he planted a vineyard: And he drank of the wine, and was drunken; and he was uncovered within his tent” – Gen. 9:20,21. It wasn’t long before sin became exceedingly sinful in this new Age. Chapter 11 tells us, men became independent of God, wanting to be big, they were lifted up with pride. This is what happened in the Age of Human Government, man was leading man and again man failed. They went from the altar and sacrifice to the doctrine of Cain (self effort). Jude verse 11 tells us what God thinks of the doctrine of Cain, “Woe unto them! For they have gone in the way of Cain…”

God divided the nations according to the three sons of Noah – Gen. 10:23. Japheth had seven sons and they became the northern countries. “By these were the isles of the Gentiles divided in their lands” – Gen. 10:2-5. Ham became the southern countries. He had four sons – Gen. 10:6-20. Cush is the same as Ephiopia. Mizraim in the some as Egypt. Phut is the same as Libya. Canaan was cursed (Gen. 9:25). Shem had five sons – Gen. 10:21-31, the Shemites is the race Abraham came from – Gen. 11:10-26.

“…Cush begat Nimrod: he began to be a mighty one in the earth…a mighty hunter…and the beginning of his kingdom was Babel…” – Gen. 10:8-10. The whole earth was one language and they said one to another, Go to, let us build a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; let us make us a name, – Gen. 11:1-4. The LORD came down to see the city and the tower and said, “Behold, the people is one, and…all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. The name of it was Babel (which means confusion by mixing), because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD Scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth, – Gen. 11:5-9.

God had to judge and so this dispensation of Human Government ended with the destruction of the tower, different languages and men scattered abroad. Man had become too big in themselves and tried to reach heaven by their own effort. Today we see men trying to build a tower to heaven again in a high handed manner against God.
Next issue: The Age of Promise

“Treasures”

Jack Davis

“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him…When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.” Matthew 2:1,2,9-11

Treasures mentioned in Scripture give us precious instruction concerning deposits of wealth. With many examples, we are taught who are the truly wise and the otherwise. An important aspect of being wise, is being wise in time. The Psalmist wrote, “Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him – Ps 2:10-12.

In Romans One, especially verses eighteen through twenty-five, we have spelled out very clearly, how humanity has taken the path of the otherwise. With the wise men of our text, our attitude and activity manifested in what we seek, and what we share may determine whether we are wise or otherwise. What do we treasure, what do we do with what we have? Jesus said, “Lay up for yourselves treasure in heaven…for where your treasure is there will your heart be also” – Mt. 6:20-21. He also said; “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness,” and all that we have need of would be added unto us – V. 33.

SEEKING: As the wise men then were seeking Jesus, so today, there are those who are not only instructed in the things of God, but keep on seeking more. They come to Him with prepared hearts, receptive, open to divine deposits. They are investing energy, thought, and time wisely. “My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her” Proverbs 2:1-5 & 3:13-15.

In Proverbs 8:17-21, where we find Jesus pictured as wisdom personified, we read these wise words, “I love them that love me: and those that seek me early (diligently) shall find me. Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold, yea, that fine gold, and my revenue than choice silver. I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.”

The apostle Paul, somewhat overwhelmed as he contemplated some of the divine attributes, cried out; “O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom, and knowledge of God!” We also rejoice in the fact, that in Jesus Christ are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, and that by God he is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. That, according as it is written, “He that glorieth let him glory in the Lord.” No wonder our apostle said; “I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord.” Oh, the surpassing worth, the priceless privilege of knowing Him intimately! So we today gladly seek Jesus, with the motive of wholehearted worship. Wise men still seek Him.

“We have seen his star…and are come to worship him.” They were divinely guided. We today must enter worship by divine guidance. Those who are wise put God first. His Word has the place of supreme authority in their lives. The Holy Spirit leads trusting hearts into the depths of true spiritual worship by the Word of God. Eph. 5:17-20; I Thess. 5:16-19; John 16:13-15.

Those wise men left the comfort of their homes, came from afar, and as strangers and pilgrims, traveled many weary miles. True seekers today overcome hindrances of the world, the flesh, and the devil. We can’t allow the pleasures, riches, and cares, discouragements or disappointments to keep us from going on. Let not the love of ease, self-indulgence, pride, or satanic accusations hold us back. Their journey was accompanied with joy. Joy is a characteristic of those who value Him most.

SHARING: “They opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts.” Worship of the wise is associated with giving, that is, expressions of our appreciation of His worth. When they saw Him, “they fell down and worshipped him.” Spiritual worship is an outflowing result of divine revelation. Any knowledge or wisdom aside from that comes to naught. When I think of “open Treasures,” I think of the importance of the openness of our lives before the Lord. Jesus said; “Let these sayings of mine sink down into your ears.” Jesus spoke in symbol in Matthew 13: of the Word, as the good seed taking lodging in the heart, and bringing forth fruit.

The apostle said, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” It is out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth good things, Jesus asked, “Have you understood these things?” Then He said, “Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man…which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.” Thank God, we can bring forth from the treasure of our hearts and share that which has been newly revealed, made real and living in us, but, also, it is our privilege to share that which is familiar. We need not be afraid, of repeating as the Holy Spirit leads, renewing, reminding, refreshing hearts.

THEY CAME PREPARED: Those men came expecting, but they also came ready to give. Whether we come together to meeting, or are kneeling at home we should give to Him that which we have stored in our hearts of our appreciation of Him. I am sure that when we do, we receive the most. What can we give God? The best we can give Him or others, we must first take form His hand. I Cor. 4:7, “What hast thou that thou didst not receive?” II Cor. 4:7, “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” Oh, what a deposit of wealth God has placed in us! GLORY, GLORY to God forever! Songs of Solomon 7:10-13. “I am my beloved’s and his desire is toward me. Come, my beloved, let us go forth into the field; let us lodge in the villages…there will I give thee my loves. The mandrakes give a smell, and at our gates are all manner of pleasant fruits, new and old, which, I have laid up for thee, O my beloved. We have here spoken in symbol, some treasures of the heart. This has been called the Brides hope chest.

These wise men’s gifts picture for us some good examples of giving.
“GOLD:” They, discerning His worth, expressed appreciation of the fact that He was God, descended from the excellent glory. These gifts are worthy of a king, The KING. He was born king, born to reign. The gift of Gold expresses our appreciation of Jesus’ sovereignty. The gold we may give him is His pre-eminence in our lives.

“FRANKINCENSE:” Here, we may sense our appreciation of Jesus as Saviour. This perfume was the basis of the incense, for the sweet-savour, or burnt offerings. Its fragrance comes forth in contact with fire. Even as a man, Jesus was wholly consumed of the Father’s will. He said; “not My will, but thine.” We acknowledge His deity, but we also appreciate His Holy humanity. It was as a man that Jesus offered Himself without spot to God, as a sweet-smelling savour. God said of Him, “I am well pleased.” Jesus as a man, fully glorified the Father. He could say, ‘I do always the things that please the Father.” He perfectly translated the will of God into terms of everyday living. As we yield our lives to God, letting Jesus have the pre-eminence, our lives also become a sweet-savour of Christ unto our God. Let our appreciation to God for His Son, ascend before the throne on high. Giving Him praise, the fruit of our lips, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

“MYRRH:” As we give Him gold, acknowledging His deity, recognizing His sovereignty, honor His right to reign in us; and frankincense, offering praise in appreciation for the Man that became our Savior, let us also give Him Myrrh. Jesus suffered so immeasurably in becoming the mediator between God and man. Myrrh, one of the chief spices, was an ingredient used in the Holy anointing oil. It was also used for burial. Its sweet fragrance comes forth from its crushing. As our hearts are broken considering the suffering He went through for us, let us give Him Myrrh, presenting our bodies a living sacrifice.

THE LAST DAYS

Anita Clark

“The Kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and His Christ; and He shall reign forever and ever. And the four and twenty elders which sat before God on their thrones, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God, saying, we give thanks. O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because Thou hast taken to Thee Thy great power and hast reigned” Revelation 11:15-17.

For about the last 2,600 plus years “the times of the Gentiles” has been in effect. This God ordained time began when Israel, because of their disobedience, was led away out of their promised land into the captivity of Gentile nations. Ever since, Israel has been trodden under foot, persecuted and hated by nations where they were scattered. Even though they have been tremendously persecuted in the past and in the present, God has declared that they are His people and has decreed His undying love and protection for them. His covenant with Abraham  (Gen. 12:2-3) concerning his progeny is still in effect. God is regathering them to their homeland now, but this process will be greater as time goes on.

When Jesus Christ comes again, in what is called the rapture, to receive His Bride unto Himself, He will take the throne of His Father David as it is prophesied in Scripture. He will reign as a Jew of the linage and offspring of King David (II Sam. 7:11- 14). The Times of the Gentiles will be officially over. Psalms 2:1-3 predicts, “Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together against the LORD and against His anointed (Christ), saying Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the LORD shall have them in derision (scorn).

Just before the seven years of tribulation that is coming upon the earth, the man who will be the “beast” of Rev. 13 will make a treaty with Israel, no doubt for their protection and acceptance by other nations (Dan. 9:27). But at the middle of the seven years He will break this covenant and turn against Israel and persecute them. This man, known as the Antichrist or “beast” (Rev. 13,17) will unite the nations into one world economy, one world government and one world religion. He will become the ruler of the world and will be in usurpation against the rule of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is true that for there to be a counterfeit on the earth of Christ (the Supreme Ruler), He must be ruling in heaven. Revelation 4:1-3 shows Christ as He begins His reign at the beginning of the seven years of tribulation.

At this very time the nations are trying to unite into “One World Order.” This has been the cry of many world leaders for several years, beginning in 1940. National leaders believe that the only way for peace worldwide is greater unification of all nations. The emphasis is on World Economics, World Government, and World Religion. These are the aims of the nations of this end time fulfilling (Rev. 13-17).

WORLD ECONOMICS – We see this coming about in the push for World Economic Unity. The economic organization known as the G-20 will hold their summit in Brisbane, Australia November 14, 2014 focusing on global economic growth, job creation and shielding nations from financial shocks. Protestors gathered just previous to the meeting of world leaders to try to pressure for tangible results. The goal of the summit is to create a burst of confidence in the G-20 by setting goals to create tens of millions of new jobs. According to reports of the meeting,

“Europe is teetering on the brink of recession, China‘s growth is slowing, while Japan is in a malaise, prompting the G-20 to provide signs of confidence that the countries are cooperating together.” Under the Antichrist the world will be totally united under one economy, as spoken of in Revelation 13:16-17, “And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand or in their foreheads: And that no man might be able to buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.” We have seen the progress toward this situation taking place over the years right before our eyes.

WORLD GOVERNMENT – Genesis 11:1-9 records the Satanic influence in back of the first unification of the nations of the world. Verse 4 states their goal, “And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.” This took place about 100 years after the flood of Noah’s time. At that time all the people on earth were of one language and of one speech. Their proclamation showed both their lack of trust in God and their self exaltation. They were saying, “We will do what we think is best for humanity!” They did not consult God in the matter. We see this happening in the world today.

There are many, many groups uniting mankind, on National and on International levels. There is an almost endless list of U.N. worldwide programs and commissions instituted to solve multiple problems such as global famine, exhaustion of nonrenewable resources, skyrocketing pollution, the coming ice age, ozone holes in the atmosphere, and global warming, Ebola and other diseases, and starvation, plus many other concerns of the world community. It sounds reasonable to the human race to unite and seek for answers through their own intellect and research, but sadly without God.

Satan continues his demonic work in the United States and the world, which he has continued since beginning. His dominance and power has increased in the world through-out time, until now in this end time, he will promote a superman, whom he will fill with his satanic power making him to appear to have all the answers to earth’s problems.

We read of this ‘Superman” in several places in the Scripture: Daniel 7:8, 11, He has a voice speaking great things,” Daniel 8:23 “.. A king of fierce countenance, understanding dark sentences (the occult), shall stand up,” Revelation 13:2 “...and the Dragon gave him his power and his throne, and great authority.” Vs. 3, “...wounded to death, and his deadly wound was healed, and all the world wondered after the beast,” Vs. 4. “And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast; and they worshipped the beast, saying, who is like unto the beast? Who is able to make war with him?” “... and power was given him to continue forty-two months,” Vs..7 “... and it was given unto him to make war with the saints [believers], and to overcome them; and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” Read also II Thess. 2:3-12. You will find there more information about the Antichrist. There he is called (Vs. 8) “that Wicked.” We are so near the tribulation at this time. It could be anytime this evil man will come forth and make a “covenant” with Israel.

WORLD RELIGION – The Church of the Lord Jesus Christ started out founded on the truth of God’s Word, but even in the Apostle’s days, error was creeping in. Finally, great error came in when church and state were joined (300 A.D.) persecution was perpetrated on anyone who did not follow the dogma of the recognized church. Although there has always been a line of true believers down through the ages, the recognized church began to adopt false teaching such as forgiveness for sin by doing penance, confessions to priests, purgatory, worship of idols, formalism in services and many other false doctrines. This is why we call it “The False Church.” Now, after 2,000 plus years of this Church Age, there is all manner of false doctrine. However, there is still true Christianity made up of all believers in Christ, who have experienced a new birth. The false system, Roman Catholicism is still with us, but there are some true believers within that system also.

The Roman Catholic Church has in recent years had meetings trying to gather all religions into the fold in unity, even Wicca, Buddhism, Muslimism, Native American Belief, as well as Charismatic Christians, and Hindus. Although the Roman Catholic Church does not belong to the World Council of Churches, there are some individual Catholic churches in foreign lands that do. However, in reading on the internet the view held by the Roman Catholic Church about the World Council of Churches, we find that they now are accepting the role of this group as being “a way that God is bringing back unity to the church.” During the tribulation when the Second Beast of Revelation 13 comes to the front and unites all religions together into oneness, and promote the Antichrist as the King of the earth and will worship him.

Here in the end time scene, the false church will join with the Antichrist. In Revelation 13:11-17 we read about the False Prophet, the religious leader who will promote the Antichrist, and entreat everyone to worship the Antichrist. One of these days very soon Satan will bring forth this “Man of Sin.”

“Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is within you, than he that is in the world. We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the Spirit of Truth, and the spirit of error” (I John 4:4-6).

“Ye are the children of light, and the children of the day; we are not of the night, nor of the darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as others; but let us watch and be sober. But 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” (I Thess. 5: 5-8). Christ is coming at any time. Be warned and ready!

Right



Do the right thing. That’s just not right. Knowing right from wrong. There is plenty of talk and plenty of opinions about what is right and wrong, but there has to be some standard to measure against or it is only opinion and everyone has a different opinion.

So much today is taught as majority think. If the majority think it is right, then it must be and everyone else should accept it as being right. If it is right for you, then just do it. They don’t want a standard unless they decide it fits their opinion.

In Psalms 119:126-128, we read this: “It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law. Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold. Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.”  This gives us the basis for everything. God’s Word is the standard to measure against. God’s Word is always right, no matter how much it goes contrary to what any person or group of persons might think. Men may have tried to make it void, but that does not change the fact of the truth of God’s Word.

Psalms 19:8 “The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.”  When we come to the place that we recognize that God’s Word is right, it rejoices our heart and simplifies our life. We no longer have to rely on ourselves or on society to define for us what is right or wrong.

The world lives in a grey zone for so much of life. Ever hear someone say, “That might be right for some, but not for me”? There seem to be so many “grey” areas today. God deals in right and wrong. Proverbs 30:5-6 “Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.”  Do we really want to add to God’s Word and be found a liar? Paul said, “let God be true and every man a liar.”

The law given in the Old Testament was intended to demonstrate God’s prefect righteousness, and show us how incapable we are of achieving that. We can either, decide God is wrong and make our own righteousness, or recognize God is right and realize we need Him to make us righteous through Jesus Christ. Only through the life of Christ in us can we do that which is right.

 Psalms 119:160 “Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever.”  How long do we expect man’s word to last? He changes his mind all the time. Man constantly changes his “truth” to fit his situation at the time. We hear often how the Bible is outdated, and it needs to change for today’s generation. God’s Word is the same forever, just as He is the same forever.

Gordon Crook