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IV.
The United States of America in prophecy
The United States of
America has become the most powerful, most influential power in the
world. When America speaks, the whole world sits up and takes notice.
Many in the world may not agree or like what they see, but they take
notice none-the-less.
People come from all
over the world to be educated in America. They come to do business. They
come to share in science and technological achievement. They come
seeking financial aid, and most recently, they come joining us in
seeking world peace and victory over terrorism.
Not only do they
come to America, but America reaches out to them as well. From America
radio, television, the Internet, and the press speak to the world. Aid
workers and missionaries go out from America, joining other nations to
give medical care, to provide food and shelter in time of need, and to
preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.
And yes, our
military is found scattered around the whole world and in the skies
above our world. Truly America has become a world-class superpower.
Given this fact, and
given the present status of our world, we might properly ask if the
Bible has anything to say about these times and the role that America is
to play in them.
The answer to both
questions is, yes! Certainly our times are mentioned in Bible prophecy.
In fact all of Bible prophecy focuses on our times and the culmination
of the history of planet earth. And Bible prophecy speaks about America
and her role in those end-time events. Though direct references to
America in the Bible are few in number, they speak volumes, for they
portray America as a key player in the wrap-up of all those Bible
prophecies that bring six thousand years of history to its spectacular
conclusion.
In the book of
Revelation, the last book of the Bible, we read of a political power
that was predicted to arise toward the end of history. As with much of
Bible prophecy, this one too utilizes symbols to convey its message.
One of the symbols most often used to describe
nations or political powers is an animal or beast. (This prophecy
about America is no exception) In fact, most nations themselves choose
some animal as a national symbol – a lion or an eagle or some other
powerful creature.
There is another
symbol that is commonly used in Bible prophecy. Beasts are usually
portrayed as coming unto the world scene, rising out of the sea or a
body of water. The picture of a sea or body of
water is used to signify peoples or populations.
Yet another
prophetic symbol is a horn. Horns often depict a
political power or the principles within a political power by which it
operates. (Example: When Napoleon died, the Grecian empire was
divided among his four generals, symbolized in the Bible as four horns.
This beast
representing America is noteworthy for its contrast with other beasts
used in Bible prophecy. “And I beheld and another beast coming up our of
the earth; and he had two horns
like a lamb ---,” Revelation 13:11.
Whereas other beast symbols are strong and aggressive, this beast is
peace loving and non-aggressive. Other beasts rise up out of the sea.
This one comes up out of the earth - suggesting a place with little or
no population.
There in no question
in this prophecy but that this beast symbolizes a political or national
power. It is interesting to realize that in all of
history there is only one nation that fits the picture described by the
symbols in this prophecy. That nation is the United States of America.
America was established upon two important
principles as symbolized by the horns of this peace-loving
animal. It was designed to be a state without a king and a church
without a pope. Most of the early immigrants to this land were refugees
from religious and or political persecution and were determined to
create a nation free from these evils. Their new
nation would be governed by the people - for the people, and it
would be a land where a man is free to live
according to the convictions of his own conscience rather than
the dictates of a pope.
Indeed these are the
principles that have made it possible for this nation to rise to the
heights to which it has risen. These are the attributes that have
enabled America to promote the principles of democracy to repressive
regimes around the world. And they are the principles that have allowed
America to serve as the launching pad from which the Holy Spirit could
work to carry the everlasting gospel to the world in the power of the
latter rain to ripen the earth’ harvest in preparation for the return of
Jesus.
Truly God has
blessed this land for its faithfulness to the principles of His kingdom.
But the text
continues:
“...and he
speaks as a dragon. And he exercises all
the power of the first beast before him, and causes the earth and them
which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was
healed. And he does great wonders so that he makes fire come down from
heaven on the earth in the sight of men, and deceives them that dwell on
the earth by the means of those miracle which he has power to do in the
sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth that they
should make an image to the beast which had the wound by the sword, and
did live. And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast,
that the image of the beast should both speak and cause that as many as
would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. And he causes
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
buy or sell except he that had the mark, or the name of the beast or the
number of his name. Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding
count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man: and his
number is six hundred and sixty six,” Revelation 12:11-18.
What are we to make
of this text? That it speaks of America seems quite certain. And it is
obviously predicting a change that is to come over the nation to replace
its gentle lamb-like qualities and take on the characteristics of a
dragon. Furthermore, the prophecy is not only implicating America, but
refers as well to another beast that preceded it. The prophecy is a
prediction of things to come. It is also an indictment of evil and a
serious warning to both the people of America and the peoples of all the
earth.
As we consider this
prophecy we have several options. We may throw it out as just so much
garbage. We may accept the advice of others to ignore it. We may
conclude that we cannot really understand it, or that the evidence by
which to identify the symbols is inadequate. We may resist it and get
angry at God for providing such an “accusatory” prophecy to begin with –
or we may focus our ire upon those that dare to interpret it in this way
and to propagate their inflammatory findings.
We
have one other option. We may check it out for ourselves, confirm its
validity, and praise God for warning us so as to allow us to live wisely
through the difficult times foretold therein.
It is with certain
trepidation that I continue, for some will misinterpret my words to be
accusatory and condemnatory rather than what they are intended to be -
words of sensitivity and invitation. Yet, I would be most guilty were I
to withhold these vital life-giving truths while there is still time and
opportunity to respond in positive ways – if indeed the interpretation
is correct. Furthermore, it is important to note that this
prophecy is speaking of systems of power and
governance, not individuals. Though individuals are certainly
involved in the operation of these systems, they may well be acting
conscientiously and honestly to the best of their understanding and
convictions. At whatever point men are brought to knowledge and
conviction and yet refuse, they then become responsible for their
actions. But Only God can read the motives of the human heart.
And though the
systems symbolized by these beasts are even now fulfilling their
predicted role, the transition from lamb-like to dragon-like is a
gradual process, attaining its full expression only in its last days. In
the meantime, good and evil exist side by side. Only when judgment is
complete will these two be fully and completely separated. (Click
here to read about the judgment.)
Let us not at this
point get lost in details, but let us look at the bigger picture for a
bit. This prophecy tells us that a nation will rise up out on an
essentially uninhabited land. In the beginning it will possess many of
the characteristics of Jesus, the Lamb of God. Over time the nation will
change and eventually act like the proverbial dragon. Few would deny
that this picture of America in her early days is quite accurate. The
question is this. How does a dragon act?
How would one recognize a dragon? What metamorphosis would a nation have
to undergo to be pictured in the Bible as a dragon?
The text itself
helps to answer the question. It says that this beast follows the
example of the beast that preceded it. In other words,
it comes to mimic the condition of the beast from
which its inhabitants had fled – of suppression and religious
persecution - from a world where church and state were often one
and the same thing and where conscience was often rewarded at the
burning stake.
In other words, the
Bible is saying that America will become a land governed by restrictive
laws of conscience, eventually enforced by a decree of death for the
non-compliant.
NOT AMERICA, you
say! NEVER!
No? Perhaps not
during a time of peace and tranquility. Maybe not when things are going
well. But do we need another 9/11 to be reminded of just what happens to
people in times of major disaster and catastrophe? Have you considered
how America has changed since just that one incident? What will happen
when troubles come one after the other in rapid-fire succession – as
certainly they will? When our resources are found to be woefully
inadequate – in spite of “Homeland Security”?
You see, America did
not change overnight on September 11, 2001. She has been lining her
ducks in a row for a long while. The terrorists only gave opportunity
for her to express a bit of what her true character is becoming.
Let us look for a
moment at how we reacted. We joined together in patriotic unity to find
and destroy the enemy and to worship our “generic” God. A few brave
souls dared express what many more felt but were afraid to say, “It is
because of their sins (the homosexuals and abortionists) that these
things have come upon us.” It is true. The initial heated response soon
cooled. Church attendance one year later was nearly the same as it was
before 9/11. But we continue to pursue our enemies, even to the point of
sacrificing many of our basic human rights – being convinced that such
sacrifice is a reasonable exchange for security.
This was an isolated
incident. True, it was terrible beyond measure, but just one
none-the-less. But how will America respond when bombarded from every
side – as the Bible predicts? This was a terrorist act and we may expect
more. But we are also vulnerable to the devastating “acts of God” that
are also increasing in frequency and severity - to failure of our
financial institutions - (as we have already tasted) to defeat in war -
(God forbid!) and to loss of those things in life that we have come to
expect as minimum necessities – food, clothing, a comfortable place to
live, TV’s, computers, and cheap fuel for our automobiles. How will we
react when we suddenly loose these things? I submit that our reaction
will be similar to 9/11 but greatly exaggerated. We will identify our
enemy – or create one. Then the lonely voice calling for legislative
action to come “right” with God will become the common plea. And yes, we
may expect swift and mighty action by our Chief executive, by the
legislature, and by the judicial systems so as to respond to the
emergencies at hand.
You say that I am
dreaming! Perhaps 50 years ago – or 40 – or 30! But that assessment is
no longer arguable. The world is different now and we have been a part
of the change.
As the Bible
predicts such an end-time scenario, it also identifies the common enemy.
“--- As many as would not worship the image of the beast should be
killed. And causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and
bond, to receive a mark in their right hand or in their foreheads: so
that no man might buy or sell except he that had the mark, or the name
of the beast, or the number of his name,” Revelation 13:15-17. “And the
dragon was angry with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant
of her seed; which keep the commandments of God and have the testimony
of Jesus Christ,” Revelation 12:17.
It is clear from
these passages that the picture painted here, though complex and
multifaceted, is at root, a battle between a powerful state working in
conjunction with the “church” against a non-compliant rebel religious
movement that is faithful to God. Indeed, this picture has been
recognized for at least a century. It is only recently that one can
easily fit the many pieces together as a giant picture puzzle. In this
picture, all of the terrorist acts, wars, natural disasters, etc., are
nothing more than incidentals that ultimately lead to the
real issue of universal false worship with America
leading the way.
Nor should this
picture seem strange. Was this not almost exactly what happened 2000
years ago? Isn’t this what happened in ancient Israel when that rebel
Galilean began to upset the status quo by properly interpreting the true
spirit of the law? And wasn’t it the “church” of Jesus day working with
the state that hung our Lord on the cross? The accusation? No! He was
not a terrorist. He didn’t get involved with politics. He killed no one
and committed no crimes. Oh yes, he did claim to be the Son of God and
fulfill the law of God, – blasphemy! For this he died.
We blame the Jews –
or used to when it was the politically correct thing to do. And yes, it
was the Jews who committed the infamous act. But
it was for our sins too that he died. In a sense they were our
“hit” men! We are as responsible as they. For all have sinned. (Romans
3:23)
Isn’t it interesting
that it was hypocrisy that Jesus found so destructive to the “church” of
his day? But we fail to see it in our own lives today? I will site just
one example, though there are many, many more. Abortion - A terrible
travesty! But an end product of our individual and collective sin - not
its root! As Jesus described the true spirit of the law of God, he told
us that to lust after another sexually is just the same as committing
the act. And hating a brother is as murder. Yet today while we agitate
to legislate against the “terrible crime” of abortion, we feast our
senses on the very things that we are attempting to outlaw by
legislation. So much so that sex and violence fills our thoughts, it is
our primary form of entertainment, and all too often it leads to the
very acts. Adultery, broken homes and homeless orphaned or latchkey
children foraging on their own are the natural result. Nor dare we
forget to mention the hatred and sometimes murder that occurs in broken
relationships.
It is relatively
easy to legislate behavior. But legislated behavior will not save
America. It will not cure our hypocrisy. Only a heart that is changed
will make a difference. And that can only occur as penitent people turn
from the things of this world unto Jesus, honestly and earnestly
pleading for a new heart upon which the law of love is deeply inscribed.
Worship of any other kind is false. Though it may result in a temporary
change, it resolves no problems.
Yet this is the path that America is now on.
The state and the
church are increasingly entangling themselves with each other’s
business. Under the illusion that this is the way to deal with the many
challenges facing the nation and its international neighbors
we are making political decisions based upon
religious influence. Because of religious input we are supportive
of Israel, and because of our support of Israel are we at odds with her
enemies. In fact the war on terrorism in which we are now engaged exists
to a large extent because of our relationships with Israel.
Other examples of
religiously influenced political issues include abortion, genetic
research, federal funding for church related activities – welfare,
education, etc. Not that the government should not have a role in
dealing with issues of this type, but that its
role should be based upon solid principles of what is good for society
rather than the religious beliefs of certain of its constituents.
Likewise, the church has responsibility in many of these areas. Not by
exercising political clout, but as a community of
loving human beings that meets hurting and troubled people where they
are at and leads them to Jesus, the only answer to this worlds need –
the only one who can change the human heart. Then and only then
will people live just and upright lives by choice rather than by rule of
state.
Until now the state
has been careful to avoid legislating on matters of conscience. But the
church has its foot in the door, and only awaits the proper
circumstances to compel the state to take on this added task. For many
decades the church in America has claimed that the law of God has been
“nailed to the cross” and hence is no longer a guide to human behavior.
(A gross misinterpretation of the Biblical text!) Now, as we witness the
results of a society lacking this God given standard, the church is
doing an about face. It is beginning to call upon the state to enforce
those portions of the law of God that are acceptable to its ecumenical
constituents. (For further discussion regarding possible scenarios by
which this may occur,
click here.)
Many aspects of this
prophecy of the United States of America were elaborated upon by divine
instruction more than one hundred years ago in the writings of one who
received visions from God. Then they seemed to many to be far-fetched.
Most of the world rejected her inspiration. Today, events are
transpiring just as they were predicted. This should not seem strange,
for the Bible notes that prophecy is to be one of the gifts of the
Spirit. In fact, at this most momentous time in all of history, God
could rightfully be condemned for negligence if he failed to give us
adequate warning.
(click
here to read some of this inspiration)
But even more
importantly, the primary benefit of prophecy is to establish and
strengthen faith in God when we see His predictions come to pass in
proper order.
As you consider
the things transpiring in the world around
us today, I hope that you will see them not only as warning, but as
invitation to turn from all that is evil unto God in full commitment to
Him. The invitation is for all. Protestants, Jews, Catholics, Muslims,
and yes, people of all faiths and of no faith whatsoever. Let us
remember that God is out to rescue and save – not to condemn. It may be
that America and the world have crossed the line of no return, but as
individuals, the invitation remains a little longer, for God is not
willing for any to perish, but that all may be saved.
In the days of
Jesus, the Jews sought for a king who would free them from Roman
bondage. Jesus told them that the kingdom of God was already among them,
but that it was not of this world. Today again, as we look for a world
at peace and safe from terrorists and all other evils, let us too
remember Jesus words. The kingdom of heaven is not of this world, but I
am coming soon as King of Kings and Lord of Lords,
The question now is
only this!
Are we ready to meet
him?
top
News and Commentary suggesting fulfillment of Bible prophecy
about America
Racism? Or Justice? Oct. 2007
Is it racism that brought thousands of
protestors to the little Louisianan town of Jena? Or a desire to
see justice fulfilled?
Was it justice that 3 white students who
hung hangman's nooses from a "whites only" tree at the high
school should only be briefly suspended while 5 black students
should be charged with attempted second-degree murder (but not
yet tried) - and one black student convicted of aggravated
second-degree battery and sentenced to 15 years in prison for
beating of a white student? - Or racism?
Yes, it's been half a century since Rosa
Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus so a white man
could sit down, but racism continues to raise its ugly head
across this "land of the free, and home of the brave."
Perhaps this would be understandable were
this not a "Christian" nation, and were it not that "Christians"
are often the ones stirring the racism pot!
Jesus came to save us from our sins, not
only to forgive us, but to transform us into his image - into a
people showing love for one another as he loved us, and gave his
life for us.
When here among us, Jesus warned us that it
was not the miracles we claimed to do through his name that
would count in the time of judgment, but how well we had learned
to love one another through the work of the Holy Spirit in our
lives.
Yes, we may find fault with the racism and
the apparent injustice rearing its head in Jena, but if we are
honest with ourselves, there remains a bit of selfishness still
in all of us - and the need to fall daily on our knees before
our Lord in total submission to Him.
Can any of us even begin to imagine what
our world would be like if even half of us really loved as Jesus
taught us?
(Click here to read more about love)
Labor
pregnant in anticipation of a "new birth." Oct. 2007
For more than a century, labor unions have
served the American public through collective bargaining - that
sometimes became quite forceful.
But during the past few decades, for a
number of reasons, labor unions have experienced a serious
decline in power, membership and in financial resources.
Now, a new birth appears imminent as the
largest segment of America's manual laborers earn less than a
living wage, and most go without health care insurance.
Though many are immigrants, they are
learning that if they band together, they can "force" employers
to listen to their demands.
Congress is also awakening to the political
advantage of supporting these workers, and early this year the
House passed the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) as an amendment
to the National Labor Relations Act.
In essence, this act would allow a group of
employees in an organization to organize with the union even
though the majority of all employees did not vote to do so. (For
example, cooks in a food establishment might unionize even
though waiters, and others may not choose to do so.)
Though the bill failed to pass in the
Senate, it will likely come up again when Democrats gain full
control of both houses - as seems probable after the next
election.
With the act in force, workers will once
again have a great deal of leverage should they be workers in
critical areas of food production or distribution, safety,
construction, etc.
More than a century ago God gave His
followers counsel indicating that labor unions would be a major
force in contributing to the terrible time of trouble just
preceding the return of Jesus and the end of the world.
For some time, it appeared that the message
may have been wrong.
The present "rebirth" of Labor unions now
returns as a warning to God's people to avoid becoming part of a
labor union while also moving from the cities to more rural
areas when one can survive off the land if need be.
(Click here to
read more)
Clergy Response Teams prepared for emergencies! Sept. 24, 2007
According to a story from Shreveport's KSLA
news 12, the U.S. government has been secretly training
ministers to serve as a "Clergy Response Team" designed to "help
quell public unrest" in time of emergencies.
The concept, reportedly already applied in
New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, utilizes Clergy already
known to the community to encourage people to cooperate with
government agencies, whatever the orders, with the expectation
of settling the differences when the crisis is past.
The story notes that Sandy Davis, director
of the Caddo-Bossier Office of Homeland Security and Emergency
Preparedness, explained that people are more likely to respond
to clergy than to government officials when asked to do such
things as abandon their homes, give up their guns, etc.
Furthermore, the story reminds us that
according to Romans 13 in the Bible, governments are established
by God, and we are to obey their orders.
It is true that the Bible admonishes us to
respect our civil authorities, and certainly there is no time
when this is more important than during a time of emergency.
But the Bible is also clear that a line
must be drawn at that point where government authority preempts
the principles of God - even if one's pastor were to admonish
one to act now and talk about it later!
A word to the wise!
(Click here to read more)
President Bush issues directives regarding national emergencies.
Sept. 24, 2007
Responding to lessons learned by Hurricane
Katrina, the destruction of the World Trade Center, and other
recent national emergencies, U. S. President George Bush has
issued directives designed to maintain government functions in
the event of "Catastrophic emergencies."
"The directive establishes a comprehensive
national policy on the continuity of Federal Government
structures and operations and a single National Continuity
Coordinator responsible for coordinating the development and
implementation of Federal continuity policies."
It "prescribes continuity requirements for
all executive departments and agencies, and provides guidance
for State, local, territorial, and tribal governments and
private sector organizations in order to ensure a comprehensive
and integrated national continuity program that will enhance the
credibility of our national security posture and enable a more
rapid and effective response to and recovery from a national
emergency."
"Catastrophic emergencies" engaging the
Directives (National Security Presidential Directive/NAPD 51 and
Homeland Security Presidential Directive/HSPD 20) are described
as any incident, regardless of location, that results in
extraordinary levels of mass casualties, damage, or disruption
severely affecting the U.S. population, infrastructure,
environment, economy, or government functions."
These "unusual" presidential powers are
frightening to many U.S. citizens, seeing them as potential
sources of severe abuses of personal freedom.
And while these concerns are real
portending serious misappropriations of power, they also make a
very strong statement acknowledging the times and conditions
during which we live.
Our world is falling apart -
environmentally, socially, economically, and spiritually - and
we must expect to pay a price for the behaviors that have
brought us to this place.
The Bible has predicted this time,
describing it in such terms as "the great and terrible day of
the Lord," the "day of judgment," and "a time of trouble such as
the world has never before seen."
Seeing the "signs," it is proper that we
prepare for those coming "Catastrophic emergencies," but more
importantly, by preparing to meet our coming Lord and King,
Jesus Christ upon His promised return.
(Click here to read more)
Creationists - a threat to human rights! Sept. 10, 2007
Creationists are dangerous "religious
fundamentalists," and are a threat to human rights, but the
"science of evolutionism is crucial to the future of our
societies and democracies."
Such is the assessment of the Council of
Europe (CoE), Europe's main human rights body that is attempting
to make Darwin's evolution the law of the 47 member states of
Europe.
According to the Council's report, belief
in creationism is transforming America and Australia into
religious extremist, undemocratic, theocracies that are
endangering human and civil rights - something Europe wants
nothing to do with.
While the report speaks a bit of truth when
it notes that religious extremism in America is headed in a
direction that, unchecked, will indeed lead to serious
restrictions of personal rights, it is interesting to note that
Europe, by this very attempt to close the door on creationism is
interfering with human rights at least as much as the actions of
the Christian Right ever dreamed of doing in America.
Unfortunately, the religious right in
America is just as guilty of attempting to control conscience as
is the CoE.
Whether its concerns about abortion,
evolution, homosexuality, etc., may or may not be more worthy
than Europe's more secular concerns, both interfere with basic
human rights, and both ignore the admonition of Holy Scripture.
Whereas the Love of God, the same love He
seeks to implant in the mind and heart of His followers, is very
definitely patient and understanding of both believers and
unbelievers, and whereas Jesus did not involve himself in
politics, or any activity resulting in forced behavior,
Christians today have taken on that role legislating behavior,
quite clearly contrary to Scripture and Jesus' own words.
(Click here to
read more)
AT&T
guilty of censoring! Sept. 3, 2007
AT&T has admitted that it censored the
lyrics of a song critical of U.S. President Bush during Pearl
Jam's gig at Lollapalooza in Chicago and shown of AT&T's Blue
Room entertainment site.
While broadcasters are liable if they fail
to "bleep out" swearing and displays of sexual excess, AT&T's
editing of a lyric, even if ridiculing the president, is still
uncalled for and certainly contrary to our constitution's free
speech position.
But AT&T has made its point.
If it is OK to sensor swearing and sexual
expression, why isn't it Ok to censor other offensive material?
In other words, where does one draw the
line?
And Janet Jackson's blatant self-exposure
exemplifies the dilemma that is bound to arise again and again
in a society split by extremes of secularism and religiosity.
The Bible predicts the loss of free speech
in America, and it appears AT&T is just testing the waters.
(Click
here to read more)
Interception of electronic communication now OK! Aug. 20,
2007
In keeping with a recent legislative action
to update the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, it is now
OK for the National Security Agency (NSA) to receive and record
electronic communications involving people "reasonably believed
to be outside of the United States" without a court order or
oversight.
While many recognize this legislation as a
blow to the freedom of Americans, it is deemed essential to
protect the nation from terrorism.
Recent reports of the expansion of al-Qaeda
training camps in Pakistan and Afghanistan have served to make
the need for the legislation urgent.
While most of us are not particularly
concerned about NSA monitoring our overseas phone calls, Faxes,
etc., we have every right to be concerned about this further
encroachment upon our civil liberties - especially when viewed
from the perspective of biblical prophecy describing events of
the end-times of earth history.
According to Bible prophecy, when things
get tough, Church and State bodies will unite their efforts to
write legislation governing one's worship practices, including
the day upon which to worship.
Then, Bible prophecy predicts unprecedented
trouble for those who believe and put into practice the
principles of love outlined in the Ten Commandments.
(Click here to read about America in Bible prophecy)
Prayer, the new weapon for Iraq! Aug. 13, 2007
On July 24, a delegation led by the
Christian Defense Coalition leaves the U.S. bound for Baghdad,
Iraq, to pray for an end to the war.
The delegation has already been welcomed by
Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki and will be guest of the
government during its stay in Iraq.
When returning home, the coalition plans to
request president Bush and Congress to appointment of a national
day of fasting and prayer in anticipation of the scheduled
Congressional briefing of General Petraeus in September.
Speaking on behalf or the coalition, pastor
Patrick Mahoney, the coalition's director, said, "What happens
in the next few months will have a profound impact on the future
course of Iraq, the United States, and the entire region. In
response to this critical hour, it is essential that we humble
ourselves and look to God for His Sovereign grace, blessing and
wisdom in all that we do."
Continuing, Mahoney said, "Now is the time
for Americans to lay our political differences aside concerning
the war in Iraq and humbly seek God for His direction. Although
there has been much debate, discussion, and disagreement in our
country regarding events in Iraq, there are many things
Americans are united on -- such as justice and mercy which will
always triumph over terror and fear. We can also agree that the
violence and bloodshed in Iraq must come to an end. This
historic prayer initiative offers us a unique opportunity to
come together in one voice before God and leave our political
differences at the waters edge."
Mahoney is right! Nothing is impossible
with God.
Moreover, He has the nations of the world
firmly under his control.
After all, the Bible describes how about
2500 years ago He revealed himself to King Nebuchadnazzar,
emperor of Iraq and the whole world, reminding the king that He
was the One who set up kings and takes them down. (Daniel
2:20-22)
But there is another lesson to be learned
here as well, for as of now, Mahoney's plan is voluntary, when
the going really gets tough, it is very possible that compliance
may become mandatory! - For the sake of the nation, and society
in general!
(Click here to read about America in Bible prophecy)
Prayer, the new weapon for Iraq! Aug. 13, 2007
On July 24, a delegation led by the
Christian Defense Coalition leaves the U.S. bound for Baghdad,
Iraq, to pray for an end to the war.
The delegation has already been welcomed by
Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki and will be guest of the
government during its stay in Iraq.
When returning home, the coalition plans to
request president Bush and Congress to appointment of a national
day of fasting and prayer in anticipation of the scheduled
Congressional briefing of General Petraeus in September.
Speaking on behalf or the coalition, pastor
Patrick Mahoney, the coalition's director, said, "What happens
in the next few months will have a profound impact on the future
course of Iraq, the United States, and the entire region. In
response to this critical hour, it is essential that we humble
ourselves and look to God for His Sovereign grace, blessing and
wisdom in all that we do."
Continuing, Mahoney said, "Now is the time
for Americans to lay our political differences aside concerning
the war in Iraq and humbly seek God for His direction. Although
there has been much debate, discussion, and disagreement in our
country regarding events in Iraq, there are many things
Americans are united on -- such as justice and mercy which will
always triumph over terror and fear. We can also agree that the
violence and bloodshed in Iraq must come to an end. This
historic prayer initiative offers us a unique opportunity to
come together in one voice before God and leave our political
differences at the waters edge."
Mahoney is right! Nothing is impossible
with God.
Moreover, He has the nations of the world
firmly under his control.
After all, the Bible describes how about
2500 years ago He revealed himself to King Nebuchadnazzar,
emperor of Iraq and the whole world, reminding the king that He
was the One who set up kings and takes them down. (Daniel
2:20-22)
But there is another lesson to be learned
here as well, for as of now, Mahoney's plan is voluntary, when
the going really gets tough, it is very possible that compliance
may become mandatory! - For the sake of the nation, and society
in general!
(Click here to read about America in Bible prophecy
An
hour with the pope. July 23, 2007
Following conclusion of the G8 Summit in
Germany, U.S. President George Bush met with Pope Benedict XVI
at the Vatican, and spent about an hour discussing world
affairs.
The war in Iraq, and the dismal future of
the Christian Church in that nation, the relief of poverty and
disease in Africa and poor nations, and the rising tensions
between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the West occupied
much of the discussion in the presence of reporters.
Nearly twenty minutes was spent in private
between the president and the pope, and the subject of those
discussions may never be known.
This was President Bush's first meeting
with Benedict XVI since becoming pope, and it is reported that
Bush addressed the pope as "Sir," rather than the customary
greeting of, "Holy Father."
That the president should meet with the
pope at all is newsworthy, and a fulfillment of Bible prophecy.
What other Church leader do presidents and
kings of the nations consult with on a regular basis - and why
the pope?
Why is the Vatican granted political status
when no other church is?
Why special status at the United Nations?
Does the fact that the pope is so
universally respected and involved in world affairs indicate
that he is indeed who he claims to be, the heaven authorized
expression of God on earth - who can change the Holy Scriptures
at will, including the eternal Ten Commandment law?
Doesn't it seem strange that the God
described in the Bible, who is all wise, everywhere present and
all powerful should grant a mere man the authority to take His
name, do His work, and even think to change the basic laws by
which the whole universe functions - and no one takes notice?
(Click
here to read Bible prophecy about the church)
Faith-based programs get green light by U.S. Supreme Court. July
23, 2007
Faith-based programs established by the
"Executive order" of U. S. President, George Bush, so that
church based ministries may receive federal help in serving the
poor, have met their critics and now been given the green light
by a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling.
In its essence, the ruling prevents we
taxpayers from challenging those presidential actions that are
made by Executive Order, bypassing Congressional oversight.
Certainly this ruling by the high court is
good news for those charities depending upon government funding
for their ministry, but is, at the same time very disconcerting
to others that see the ruling as the removal of one more section
of the wall that until now has kept the State from interfering
with Church activities, and the Church from exercising control
over the State.
While Bible prophecy has long predicted
just such a time and event, it is sad to see those freedoms for
which our sons and daughters have fought and died to protect, so
easily put away.
(Click here to read about America in Bible prophecy)
State
of religious freedom in 2007! June 25, 2007
It is almost ten years since U.S. President
Bill Clinton signed the International Religious Freedom Act,
designed by Congress to address International religious freedom
abuses.
While Tom Farr, a former director of the
State Department office responsible for implementing the law,
notes that many people are now free because of the law, and it
has improved the U.S. government's interest in, and ability to
respond to abuses, it has not substantially reduced religious
freedom abuses in the world.
On another front, religious freedom is also
a topic of discussion at the Vatican.
In speaking to five new ambassadors to the
Vatican from Estonia, Pakistan, Iceland, Burundi and Sudan, Pope
Benedict XVI, said the "people must never be discriminated
against or marginalized because of their beliefs or religious
traditions."
"Freedom of religion is one of humanity's
'essential rights that needs to be protected.'"
Religious freedom is also on the agenda for
discussion when U.S. President George Bush meets with Pope
Benedict XVI on June 9 at the Vatican during their first meeting
together since Benedict XVI became pope.
Of course, there are many reasons for this
emphasis on religious freedom, not the least is the problem
Christians of all faiths face in predominantly Islamic nations.
Furthermore, Catholicism must watch out for
it's own members in places like China where the State retains
control over the bishops, and in Latin America where it is
loosing out to Evangelical and other non-Catholic Christian
growth.
The emphasis on religious freedom is
interesting in view of Bible prophecy indicating a return of a
Church/State coalition as a religious conscience persecuting
power as a final event occurring immediately preceding the
return of Jesus, this time as King of Kings.
While there is much talk about religious
freedom, both Catholics and non-Catholic Christians in the U.S.
and many other nations are already actively "campaigning" for
greater influence in legislative and judicial rulings dealing
with issues of conscience - rulings taking away religious
freedom! (Click
here to read more about the future of religious freedom in
America)
Billy
Graham - "I feel like I've been attending my own funeral."
June 18, 2007
As evangelist Billy Graham arose to speak
following speeches by presidents George H. Bush, Jimmy Carter
and Bill Clinton who had glowingly recalled the impact he had
had on their personal lives, on the nation, and on the world,
the elder Graham commented, "I feel like I've been attending my
own funeral."
The occasion was the dedication of the new
Billy Graham Library at Charlotte, N.C. modeled after the dairy
farm of his childhood.
Nor ought Graham's contribution to society
be downplayed.
No other minister has had an open pass to
the White House through 11 consecutive administrations or served
more U.S. presidents.
No modern preacher has shared the gospel of
God's love and Jesus' saving grace with more people.
Graham, along with Pope John Paul II, are
recognized internationally for their role in "sparking a moral
awakening" in the United States and in the Communist world,
helping to "tip the balance of history in freedom's favor."
Rather than taking sides on public issues
that tend to divide people, Graham learned early on in his
ministry the benefits of not being too "closely identified with
any party or person, and of standing in the middle, to preach to
all people, on the right and on the left - a practice some
preachers have yet to learn!
But as is often the case, one's greatest
strengths are often one's greatest weaknesses - for though
Graham has been a friend and confident to presidents, kings, and
commoners, his practice, again like the pope's, has tended to
strengthen the bond between religion and politics - resulting in
the weakening of the proverbial wall separating the Church from
the State - a wall now claimed by many Christians as never
having existed, and never intended by the authors of the
Constitution of the United States.
(Click here to read about America in Bible prophecy)
House
passes Hate Crimes bill. June 18, 2007
By a vote of 237 to 180, the U.S. House of
Representatives passed the Hate Crimes Act by which the
Department of Justice may assist local authorities in
investigating and prosecuting cases in which violence occurs as
a result of sexual orientation.
Should a similar bill get the green light
in the Senate, it would still have to receive the signature of
President Bush to become law, a signature he may not be willing
to make lest he betray those who placed him in office.
Members of many religious organizations
including the America Family Association (AFA) and Concerned
Women for America have already been bombarding the President
with pleas for a veto, claiming that America already has hate
crime legislation.
What, many ask, is there about hate crimes
against gays and lesbians that make it different from hate
crimes against others?
Should not justice be equal for all? They
wonder.
Yet, according to FBI statistics, one out
of every six hate crimes are motivated by the victim's sexual
orientation.
Perhaps this is why 73% of Americans say
they are in favor of expanding the hate crimes law to
specifically include sexual orientation and gender identity.
It is interesting that some of the most
violent opposition to homosexuality comes from some of the most
ardent Christians - those who profess to love God and their
fellow men as they love themselves.
Yes, homosexuality is a terrible illness -
and sin - if we are willing to call it by its right name.
But truth be known, we are all sinners -
victims of a terribly dysfunctional world after 6,000 years of
rule by the "Prince of this world," Satan himself.
It is only by the grace of God, through the
sacrificial gift of Jesus, that any of us can hope to live
victoriously now, and with our Lord and Savior in the world to
come.
If we truly believe in Jesus and the
principles of love by which He governs, shouldn’t we rather be
loving and praying for our "neighbor" rather than judging and
condemning him/her to hell?
WWJD? I wonder!
(Click here
to read more)
"The
power of conscience!" June 18, 2007
The "power of conscience" is of even
greater power than the power of America, or the power of the
leaders from the five other continents gathered at the G-8
Summit.
These are the words of U.S. President
George Bush as he addressed his hearers in Prague where he had
stopped on his way to Germany to meet with leaders of the
world's richest nations in the wake of which mass demonstrations
opposing the meeting were already occurring.
In trouble at home and abroad, largely
because of the war in Iraq, President Bush likened himself to a
dissident, "coming to meet with fellow dissidents."
"If standing up for liberty makes me a
dissident," he said, "I wear that title with pride."
Using Czechoslovakia as his example of a
nation of people who lost their freedom to Communism, but were
now free, the president made it clear that the war in Iraq was
only a small focus of the much larger war against terrorism and
freedom, and that he would defend freedom at any cost.
On this, it is difficult to fault the U.S.
president.
Fighting for the right - following one's
conscience at any cost is never cheap.
Jesus himself set an example of what it may
cost to do right when the whole world is doing wrong - He said,
all who do right will suffer persecution.
President Bush was speaking about the
temporal world, but the same is true for the eternal one, for
the war against terrorism is only a small facet of the greater
war between good and evil, between truth and error.
That war too is reaching a crescendo as
God's final judgment comes to a close in the last great battle
of history, the battle of Armageddon, wherein every living
person will find it necessary to choose sides, for truth as
defined in the Ten Commandments, of for error as defined by all
forms of counterfeit and deceit.
(Click here to read about
the Last Judgment) (Click
here to read about Armageddon)
It is then when the real power of
conscience will be put to the final test.
May
3, 2007 declared National Day of Prayer! May 14, 2007
U.S. President George Bush as proclaimed
May 3, 2007, as a National Day of Prayer during which to
"acknowledge God's grace and ask for his continued guidance in
the life of our nation."
"Following the tragedy at Virginia Tech, in
towns all across America, in houses of worship from every faith,
Americans have joined together to pray for the lives that were
lost and for their families, friends, and loved ones. We hold
the victims in our hearts and pray for those who suffer and
grieve. There is a power in these prayers, and we can find
comfort in the grace and guidance of a loving God.
At this important time in our history, we
also pray for the brave members of our Armed Forces and their
families. We pray for their safety, for the recovery of the
wounded, and for the peace we all seek.
The Congress, by Public Law 100-307, as
amended, has called on our Nation to reaffirm the role of prayer
in our society and to respect the freedom of religion by
recognizing each year a 'National Day of Prayer.'"
Truly, if there has ever been a time in the
history of our nation when it is appropriate to seek our Lord in
prayer, it must be now - not as a mandate, but as designated
time to acknowledge our Creator God and in penitence, seeking
His mercy.
(Click here to read about America in Bible prophecy)
A
wall of prayer around America. April 23, 2007
Members of the U.S. House of
Representative's prayer caucus, recognizing that "These are
anxious times for our nation," have recently announced plans to
create 219 "spiritual blocks" around the country that will serve
as a "wall of prayer" around America.
Americans are encouraged to sign a pledge
to spend five minutes per week as part of a "non-stop" prayer
vigil for the nation and its leaders. (www.prayercaucus.org)
The bi-partisan prayer caucus, that now
includes nearly 10% of the Representatives, claim the Bible
promise or 2 Chronicles 7:14 as its source of inspiration, "If
my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and
pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will
hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their
land."
Certainly the Representatives are correct
in their assessment of the need to seek the Lord in prayer at
this troubled time in American history.
In addition to prayer, the bible promise
calls Americans to humble themselves, to seek God, and to turn
from our wicked ways.
It is one thing to form a prayer circle
around the land, but something quite different to humbly
acknowledge our "wickedness," and turn from it, individually and
corporately.
Are we ready to do that?
Or will we ignore the warning signs until
legislation is required to control our behavior - as bible
prophecy also predicts?
(Click here to read more about America in Bible prophecy)
U.S.
Supreme Court to hear free speech challenge. April 9, 2007
By agreeing to hear Morse v. Frederick, the
U. S. Supreme court must determine whether students lose certain
rights to free speech when in school.
A ruling by the same court in 1969 ruled
that they did not lose their constitutional rights to free
speech upon arriving at school property, but more recent rulings
in lower courts allow school systems to establish rules designed
to maintain order and protect students from potentially
dangerous messages.
In deciding whether his school had the
right to prevent Frederick from displaying a banner that might
influence students on private property across the street from
the school, the Supreme Court must weigh the right of students
to speak their mind verses the need of the school (society) to
protect those attending the school.
But, of course, there can be no "right"
decision!
A decision in favor of Fredericks places
America one step closer to anarchism, while one in favor of his
principle, Deborah Morse, steals from us just one more benefit
of a free democratic society.
Bible students ought not be surprised by
the dilemma, for the Good Book is clear in predicting just such
a time for America, "the land of the free and the brave."
(Click here to read about America in prophecy)
Using
the words, "family values," ruled to be "hate speech."
April 1, 2007
According to the recent ruling of the 9th
U. S. Circuit Court of Appeals, to use the words, "family
values," "marriage," and "natural family," by municipal workers
is "hate speech."
The unpublished "memorandum" expressing the
court's decision read in part, "Public employers are permitted
to curtail employee speech as long their 'legitimate
administrative interests' outweigh the employee's interest in
freedom of speech."
Richard D. Acherman, of the Pro-Family Law
Center, representing the employees, said, "We are going to take
this case right up the steps of the United States Supreme
Court."
"We are simply unwilling to accept that
Christians can be completely silenced on the issues of the day -
especially on issues such as same-sex marriage, parental rights
and free speech rights," he said.
One might correctly ask, "How is it
possible that in America, "the land of the free and the brave"
could ever deteriorate to the place where the courts might think
interpret the Constitution in such a manner?
Yes, America is changing - just as
predicted in the Holy Bible.
(Click here to read more)
Virginia apologizes for slavery! Mar. 26, 2007
In anticipation of the May 2007
commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the first permanent
English settlement in America in Jamestown in 1607, both the
Virginia General Assembly and Senate voted unanimously passed a
resolution expressing "profound regret" for the state's role in
slavery and for it's exploitation of Native Americans.
Many of the Virginia legislators that
passed the first of its kind of resolution in the nation,
represent the descendents of both slaveholders and slaves.
Other states, acting on their example are
said to be preparing to follow suit.
A. Donald McEachin, a member of the house
of delegates who sponsored the bill had this to say about the
legislation, "Great nations can face their problems."
Yes, sometimes when things like this
happen, we can realize how great it is to be an American.
(Click here to read Bible prophecy about America)
"Keep
God out of government!" Mar. 19, 2007
Disturbed by U.S. President, George Bush's
faith-based initiative, Annie Laurie Gaylor and the Freedom From
Religion Foundation, America's largest group of atheists and
agnostics, have won the fight to have their case against
faith-based initiatives heard before the U.S. Supreme Court.
It is now up to the Court to decide whether
or not taxpayers can sue over federal funding that they believe
promotes religion - and in so doing, protect the barrier
established in the Constitution that prevents the Church from
controlling the State, and the State from controlling the
Church.
While initially it was Christians who were
determined to create a nation that would never be dominated by
the rule of the Church as occurred for so many centuries in
Europe, it is interesting that now it is secular people that are
finding it necessary to fight against Christians to protect the
very thing the Christians established.
Most surprising perhaps is the fact that in
pushing for closer ties between the Church and the State,
Christians are blindly fulfilling end-time Bible prophecy that
predicts just such a scenario.
(Click
here to read about those prophecies)
This too in interesting in view of the fact
that Jesus repeatedly claimed that his kingdom was not of this
world and that His followers should not be engaged in the world
- should be in the world, but not of the world.
(Click here to
read about Christ's kingdom)
Perhaps it is time Christians take up the
Holy Scriptures and begin to read them again!
(Click here to read about the
Bible)
Pelosi bill would classify a church as a "grassroots lobbying
firm!" Feb. 26, 2007
House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi's proposed
Lobbying Reform Bill would, if passed, impose registration and
reporting requirements on large churches and other non-profit
organizations with television and radio ministries if they
"attempt to influence the general public to voluntarily contact
federal officials in order to express their own views on a
federal issue."
Should the proposal pass, any church or
religious organization that spent more than $50 thousand of its
own resources to influence public opinion opposing or promoting
a federal issue would be considered a "grassroots lobbying firm"
and be held to the same standards as other lobbyists.
Churches would no longer be able to rally
support in defense of, or in opposition to federal judicial
nominees or federal amendments, etc. without registering and
becoming subject to lobbying reform.
Opponents of the proposed legislation claim
that it flies in the face of the First Amendment of the
Constitution that makes provision for "citizens to petition the
government for a redress of grievances."
It appears obvious the proposed legislation
is a calculated attempt to curb the political power of the
conservative Christians at the polls, but it must be of interest
to those minority Christian groups as well that see Bible
prophecy describing religious persecution by a powerful
Church-State coalition also being fulfilled.
(Click here to
read more)
January 16, Religious Freedom day! Feb. 12, 2007
U.S. President George Bush has declared
January 16 as Religious Freedom day and has encouraged Americans
to celebrate it with appropriate events in homes, schools and
places of worship.
In making the announcement, the president
credited America's strength to her policy of religious freedom.
Yes, we Americans have every right to
celebrate this freedom - and also every right to speak out
against those increasingly prevalent policies that limit the
free expression of our religious freedom.
While ecumenical efforts by heads of State
to involve churches of all kinds in official ceremonies - such
as the recent inauguration of Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich
- is sure to please those religionists involved, this coalescing
of religions cannot fare well for those who for reasons of
conscience are unable to join in such compromising affairs. (Click here
to read more)
Pentagon testing the limits! Feb. 5, 2007
The Pentagon and CIA are testing the limits
when it comes to gaining access to one's private banking
records.
U.S. government agencies can legally
request a person's bank records in matters relating to the
investigation of "intelligence or counterintelligence or
international terrorism," according to the Pentagon.
James Dempsey, a privacy law expert agrees,
saying it is not the same as warrantless wiretapping of phone
conversations.
But Dempsey goes on to say that even though
it may be legal, "doesn't mean it’s a good idea. The Defense
Department is exploiting a gray zone in the law."
According to previous Supreme Court
rulings, homes and phone conversations are private and require a
search warrant to be entered, but not so with bank records and
"listings" of phone records.
Interestingly, because bank privacy law
declares that financial institutions, their officers and
employees may not disclose to any customer that a government
authority has sought or gained access to their financial
records, customers will likely never know that "father
government" has had a peek!
All of which suggests that our personal
freedoms are being eroded little by little, largely as a result
of the threats of terrorists, and that Jesus was correct all
along when he admonished not to store up treasures on earth
where moth and rust can corrupt, but to place those treasures in
heaven where not even the Pentagon or CIA can get at them.
(Click here to read about America in Bible prophecy)
Postal reform act provides for "exigent" circumstances!
Jan. 29, 2007
There are "exigent" circumstances when,
according to the postal reform act signed recently by President,
George Bush, Government Officials may open first class mail
without a warrant.
While the Constitution of the United States
protects the privacy of the mail, White House Press Secretary,
Tony Snow, claims that Bush | 