The ONLY reason why I started to make this blog in spite of the fact that I am NOT an ordained preacher or minister of any sort is the great commission which Yeshua Ha Mashiach (Jesus THE Christ) gave to ALL of his followers which was to go out into all of the world and preach the good news of Yahweh's (God's) kingdom, baptize people in the name of God the Father (Yahweh), God the Son (Yeshua), and God the Holy Spirit (the Ruach Ha Kodesh), as well as work miracles. Although I currently have yet to experience ANYTHING supernatural I still feel that I can at least make these blog posts to help to spread God's word and lead people to Jesus THE Christ.
With that goal in mind and for the glory of Yeshua my Lord and Savior I ask that any one who views this blog looks up and says a prayer of Salvation so that we might be able to meet in Heaven some day.
My effort to lead people to the Good Shepherd who is Jesus THE Christ. "Go Ye into all the world and make disciples." Yeshua of Nazareth circa 33 A.D. This blog is made up of videos that I made myself (or rather I compiled from mp3s and images found around the internet) and books, articles and other things that I found and or still find elsewhere on the internet and even some things from the internet archive which I will try to remember to label accordingly.
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Saturday, March 27, 2010
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Even More about Christian Unity
I CAN"T stress it ENOUGH when I state that it IS time for there to be a restoration of UNITY among Christians from ALL denominations. Here are more videos which back my claim.
I humbly request that ALL Christians whom see this Pray for the restoration of UNITY in the body Of Christ (which is the Church). Please realise that it is WAY past time for those of us who believe in Jesus Christ to stop focusing on all of our disagreements and start to focus on saving Lost souls from ending up going to HELL.
I humbly request that ALL Christians whom see this Pray for the restoration of UNITY in the body Of Christ (which is the Church). Please realise that it is WAY past time for those of us who believe in Jesus Christ to stop focusing on all of our disagreements and start to focus on saving Lost souls from ending up going to HELL.
Proof Of the Pre Tribulation Rapture
Every one who sees this better WAKE UP and get ready for the return of the Lord Jesus THE Christ, because he WILL be returning for HIS followers very SOON. As SOON as the Rapture happens and Yeshua's followers (meaning Christians) are taken away from this world then all HELL will Break loose. Here are some videos which provide evidence which strongly suggests that the Rapture will happen BEFORE the Great Tribulation.
Friday, March 12, 2010
More About Unity Among Christians.
The Church has been divided for WAY TOO LONG and there is not much TIME left before Jesus returns to take HIS followers up to Heaven in what is called the Rapture so all Christians need to at LEAST agree to disagree about most of the things that Christians argue about. Basically the First Church did NOT have any denomination WHAT SO EVER, yet they DID have GOD moving in their midst as they worked numerous miracles. Basically it is WAY past time for ALL christians to be re-united in spite of ALL of our different doctrines and practices because we ALL worship Yahweh (God) and we are ALL covered by the blood of Yeshua (Jesus) and ALL of us Christians read the SAME Bible. Fortunately some people have already started a Christian Unity Challenge on You Tube.
The BOTTOM LINE IS that the END TIMES are APPROACHING and ANY ONE whom is not SAVED should pray this prayer. Romans: Chapter 10 verse 9-10-13
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shall be Saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto Salvation. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be Saved…….
Eternal Life and your ticket to Heaven is a prayer away,
PRAY THIS PRAYER OUT LOUD TO GOD:
“Heavenly Father, I know that I have broken
your laws and my sins have separated me
from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want
to turn away from my past sinful life
toward You. Please forgive me, and help
me avoid sinning again. I believe that
Your Son, Jesus Christ died for my sins,
was resurrected from the dead, is alive,
and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to
become the Lord of my life, to rule and
reign in my heart from this day forward.
Please send your Holy Spirit to help me
obey You, and to do Your will for the rest
of my life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”
Did you say the prayer from YOUR heart? Then, congratulations YOUR name has been written in Heaven’s Book of Life and YOU are saved from an eternity in The Lake of Fire (Rev: 20:15)! If YOU died today, Heaven would be your new home!
By the way on the day that I made this post there were only 4 days until the Third Temple will be built in Jerusalem which IS a KEY sign pointing to the END TIMES. Therefore you MUST say a prayer Of SALVATION if you are NOT already a Christian. Needless to say the fact that the third Temple IS about to be built in Jerusalem also means that the Church MUST re-unify SOON, or at least the followers of Jesus Christ MUST shift their focus toward seeking out and saving LOST souls from going to HELL.
The BOTTOM LINE IS that the END TIMES are APPROACHING and ANY ONE whom is not SAVED should pray this prayer. Romans: Chapter 10 verse 9-10-13
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shall be Saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto Salvation. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be Saved…….
Eternal Life and your ticket to Heaven is a prayer away,
PRAY THIS PRAYER OUT LOUD TO GOD:
“Heavenly Father, I know that I have broken
your laws and my sins have separated me
from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want
to turn away from my past sinful life
toward You. Please forgive me, and help
me avoid sinning again. I believe that
Your Son, Jesus Christ died for my sins,
was resurrected from the dead, is alive,
and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to
become the Lord of my life, to rule and
reign in my heart from this day forward.
Please send your Holy Spirit to help me
obey You, and to do Your will for the rest
of my life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”
Did you say the prayer from YOUR heart? Then, congratulations YOUR name has been written in Heaven’s Book of Life and YOU are saved from an eternity in The Lake of Fire (Rev: 20:15)! If YOU died today, Heaven would be your new home!
By the way on the day that I made this post there were only 4 days until the Third Temple will be built in Jerusalem which IS a KEY sign pointing to the END TIMES. Therefore you MUST say a prayer Of SALVATION if you are NOT already a Christian. Needless to say the fact that the third Temple IS about to be built in Jerusalem also means that the Church MUST re-unify SOON, or at least the followers of Jesus Christ MUST shift their focus toward seeking out and saving LOST souls from going to HELL.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
More PROOF of the NEED for UNITY!
Even well respected ministers have begun to claim that Christians need to be re-unified and here is an example of proof of that FACT!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
ALL Christians MUST learn to LOVE each other.
There are way TOO MANY videos, blogs, and articles on websites which make various claims AGAINST various denominations and there are NOT enough people reminding others about the FACT that Jesus wants His followers to love eachother and seek to SAVE the lost instead of wasting time on WORTHLESS arguments about things like the issue about when the Rapture will happen and whether or not it will happen at all or the Once Saved Always Saved doctrine. Here are some videos which back the claim that Christians MUST learn to LOVE eachother.
We do NOT have to agree about EVERYTHING however we should at LEAST agree to DISAGREE and try to learn to LOVE EACHOTHER in SPITE of our disagreements while we shift our focus away from arguing about NON-ESSENTIAL stuff which means any topic which does NOT have any thing to do with SALVATION and get focused on seeking to SAVE LOST SOULS from spending eternity in HELL. By the way ALL of the followers of Jesus The Christ ARE SAVED. ALL Christians MUST remember that we ALL worship the SAME GOD and we ALL have the SAME BIBLE. By the way since Yahweh (GOD) forgives then so SHOULD Christians. Here are a few more videos promoting the restoration of UNITY among Christians;
Just Remember that ALL Christians worship the SAME Loving GOD whom sent HIS ONLY Begotten SON to DIE on A Cross to SAVE us ALL from spending Eternity in HELL. Basically ALL Christians are Children Of God so we MUST learn to ACT more like a FAMILY and Forgive EACHOTHER when we BLOW IT (SIN) and get to dealing with that which is REALLY IMPORTANT which is to seek and SAVE the LOST!
Let us ALL join together to Restore UNITY among Christians!
We do NOT have to agree about EVERYTHING however we should at LEAST agree to DISAGREE and try to learn to LOVE EACHOTHER in SPITE of our disagreements while we shift our focus away from arguing about NON-ESSENTIAL stuff which means any topic which does NOT have any thing to do with SALVATION and get focused on seeking to SAVE LOST SOULS from spending eternity in HELL. By the way ALL of the followers of Jesus The Christ ARE SAVED. ALL Christians MUST remember that we ALL worship the SAME GOD and we ALL have the SAME BIBLE. By the way since Yahweh (GOD) forgives then so SHOULD Christians. Here are a few more videos promoting the restoration of UNITY among Christians;
Just Remember that ALL Christians worship the SAME Loving GOD whom sent HIS ONLY Begotten SON to DIE on A Cross to SAVE us ALL from spending Eternity in HELL. Basically ALL Christians are Children Of God so we MUST learn to ACT more like a FAMILY and Forgive EACHOTHER when we BLOW IT (SIN) and get to dealing with that which is REALLY IMPORTANT which is to seek and SAVE the LOST!
Let us ALL join together to Restore UNITY among Christians!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
The Hail Mary
The ONLY reason for why I am making this post is because there are quite a few people whom have claimed that Roman Catholics worship the virgin Mary which is NOT the case at ALL and here is proof;
Hail Mary Full of grace the Lord is with Thee blessed art Thou among women and blessed is the fruit of Thy womb JESUS, Holy Mary Mother of God PRAY FOR US sinners now and at the hour of our death Amen.
Basically the virgin Mary was chosen to bring Jesus into this world therefore why can't people honor her in a special way and ask her to say some prayers on our behalf? I mean most people ask others to intercede on there behalf so why not ask the virgin Mary to pray and intercede for us. By the way there have never been any official claims that the virgin Mary has ANY supernatural powers of her own, however God uses her in special ways, so she is basically used as a messenger once in a while and even as a conduit for God's power in some cases. Of course ALL of those things ARE biblical and by the way if God uses those of us whom are on Earth as conduits of his power then why can't he use the virgin Mary? Plus the virgin Mary was taken up to Heaven in her body, although it IS possible that the assumption of the blessed virgin Mary happened after she died, the point is that God can do ANYTHING and we must NOT limit what he can do or attempt to tell him NOT to use someone.
Hail Mary Full of grace the Lord is with Thee blessed art Thou among women and blessed is the fruit of Thy womb JESUS, Holy Mary Mother of God PRAY FOR US sinners now and at the hour of our death Amen.
Basically the virgin Mary was chosen to bring Jesus into this world therefore why can't people honor her in a special way and ask her to say some prayers on our behalf? I mean most people ask others to intercede on there behalf so why not ask the virgin Mary to pray and intercede for us. By the way there have never been any official claims that the virgin Mary has ANY supernatural powers of her own, however God uses her in special ways, so she is basically used as a messenger once in a while and even as a conduit for God's power in some cases. Of course ALL of those things ARE biblical and by the way if God uses those of us whom are on Earth as conduits of his power then why can't he use the virgin Mary? Plus the virgin Mary was taken up to Heaven in her body, although it IS possible that the assumption of the blessed virgin Mary happened after she died, the point is that God can do ANYTHING and we must NOT limit what he can do or attempt to tell him NOT to use someone.
Monday, March 1, 2010
ALL Christians ARE Saved.
The Bible makes it EXTREMELY CLEAR that ALLChristians ARE saved regardless of there denominational affilliation. John Chapter 3 proves this point.
16: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that WHO SO EVER believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17: For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (Emphasis added to help make my point.) Jesus himself prayed for ALL of his followers to be ONE therefore the church (meaning the followers of Jesus Christ) MUST work to RESTORE unity regardless of what so many people claim about how you must be part of a particular denomination in order to be SAVED. Here is what YESHUA (JESUS) said as he prayed in the garden of Gethsemane;
John Chapter 17 verses 21-23
20: Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
21: That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
22: And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
23: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
16: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that WHO SO EVER believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17: For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (Emphasis added to help make my point.) Jesus himself prayed for ALL of his followers to be ONE therefore the church (meaning the followers of Jesus Christ) MUST work to RESTORE unity regardless of what so many people claim about how you must be part of a particular denomination in order to be SAVED. Here is what YESHUA (JESUS) said as he prayed in the garden of Gethsemane;
John Chapter 17 verses 21-23
20: Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
21: That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
22: And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
23: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
Why MUST Christians Watch for The Rapture.
WHAT? ME WORRY?
By John R. Funk
There are a lot of people out there who display this attitude: What? Me Worry? Why should I? When they speak in these terms, it concerns the return of Jesus Christ to this earth to "rapture" or "snatch away" His believers. These individuals rightfully believe that Jesus will return whether or not they are looking for Him. They maintain that the Rapture of the saints will happen, if it happens, when God ordains and not before then.
Each of these statements is absolutely true upon its face so why do some people seem to be consumed by the idea of looking for Christ's return and anticipate that it could happen at any time? Isn't this just a big waste of time and effort? Why would reasonable, intelligent people spend their valuable time and money trying to persuade others that Jesus is coming soon and that they need to be prepared? More than just being prepared for His coming, these people scan the newspapers trying to tie world events to end times prophecies and actually want others to spend their time looking for the return of Jesus Christ. Are these people deluded, brainwashed or just hopeful that Someone will extricate them from the causes and concerns of life? In the meantime, aren't they failing to make the most out of life and bothering other good people who need to be living life to its fullest?
There is a poem written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow that chronicles the nighttime adventure of one particular individual in the year 1775; perhaps, you have read it sometime during your life. It is called "Paul Revere's Ride" and was written on April 19, 1860. The first part of the poem is as follows:
"Listen my children and you shall hear
Of the midnight ride of Paul Revere,
On the eighteenth of April, in Seventy-five;
Hardly a man is now alive
Who remembers that famous day and year.
He said to his friend, "If the British march
By land or sea from the town to-night,
Hang a lantern aloft in the belfry arch
Of the North Church tower as a signal light,--
One if by land, and two if by sea;
And I on the opposite shore will be,
Ready to ride and spread the alarm
Through every Middlesex village and farm,
For the country folk to be up and to arm."
The purpose of this chronicled event was to spread the alarm of the impending invasion by the British army who intended to quell the revolution by those upstarts who would call themselves Americans. Spreading the alarm - that is an interesting and compelling purpose for anyone, wouldn't you agree?
In today's world, what is there to be alarmed about? You can stop laughing now; it was rhetorical. Let us not kid ourselves. There is plenty to be alarmed about. Whether it is crime, war, terrorism, drugs, the economy, this week's latest natural disaster, increasing taxes, one world government, globalism, the loss of individual rights, your children's friends, the state of marriage or numerous other reasons, we have good cause for alarm. Evidence of the declining state of our world is shown by the number of people who rely upon antidepressants to just cope with each day. What is even more alarming than any of the reasons cited herein is the world's lack of preparedness for the return of Jesus Christ. Just look around you and see if you think that this world (and the church) is ready for the return of Christ. It is not and it is for this very reason that we should "sound the alarm."
In the context of the Olivet Discourse when Jesus spoke with His disciples about the end of the age, He indicated that even though we would not know the hour, we could discern the season. The fig tree was a metaphor for Israel and Jesus noted that you could tell when summer was near by the fact that the leaves were budding. Similarly, we should be able to tell when the end of time is near or "right at the door" by the condition of the world around us. Many place the seminal event or triggering point, i.e. the leaves budding out, as the re-assimilation of Israel in 1948; others point to 1967 when Israel took back Jerusalem. In any event these individuals focus on verse 34 which states that "this generation shall not pass away until all these things have happened."
Matthew 24:32-36 **New International Version
32 "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. 33 Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door. 34 I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. 35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. 36 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
Matthew 24:32-36 King James Version
32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: 33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. 34 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled. 35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
Jesus then went on to explain that the Rapture would take place when it was totally unexpected. Just like it was "in the days of Noah", people will be living life. They will be going about their work, eating, drinking and marrying. There will be no expectation by the world at large that this could be the end of the age as prophesied so long ago. Just like those people then, people will know nothing until it is too late. God shut the door of the ark after Noah and his family entered and the world then perished.
Matthew 24:37-44 **New International Version
37 As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 38 For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; 39 and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 40 Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. 41 Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left. 42 "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. 43 But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.
Matthew 24:37-44 King James Version
37 But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, 39 And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 40 Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. 41 Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. 42 Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. 43 But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. 44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.
Those who take the attitude that Jesus is going to come when He is going to come and that there is no real reason to watch with anticipation fail to heed the admonition of verse 42. Jesus Himself commanded "Watch." The reason is that if one was diligent and kept watch, he would not be surprised and would be ready. If he is ready, then his house will not be broken up. Could this be a warning for us that by keeping watch, we will be able to avoid the breaking up of our homes? By keeping watch and anticipating His return, we will have an increased sense of urgency to try to witness to others and therefore fulfill the Great Commission (see Matthew 28:19-20).
In the following chapter of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus spoke of the parable of the ten virgins and the wedding party. In this parable all ten virgins clearly wanted to be there for the bridegroom as all ten had brought their lamps; however, only five had brought any oil for their lamps. All were sleeping when the bridegroom (a metaphor for Jesus) came as He had been a long time in coming but when the cry (or alarm) was sounded, they all woke up and trimmed their lamps. Only the five who were prepared were admitted. Even though they cried out to Him, the five who were unprepared were shut out; He did not know them. Once again we are commended to watch because we do not know the day nor the hour when Jesus will come again.
Matthew 25:1-13 **New International Version
1 "At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were wise. 3 The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. 4 The wise, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. 5 The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep. 6 "At midnight the cry rang out: 'Here's the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!' 7 "Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. 8 The foolish ones said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.' 9 "'No,' they replied, 'there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.' 10 "But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. 11 "Later the others also came. 'Sir! Sir!' they said. 'Open the door for us!' 12 "But he replied, 'I tell you the truth, I don't know you.' 13 "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.
25:1-13 King James Version
1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. 2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3 They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: 4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5 While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. 6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. 7 Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. 8 And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. 9 But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. 10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. 12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.
The Gospel of Mark addresses this same parable concerning the fig tree with many of the same ideas but there is an interesting admonition contained in his depiction.
Mark 13:28-37 **New International Version
28 "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. 29 Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that it is near, right at the door. 30 I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. 32 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. 34 It's like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with his assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. 35 Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back-whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. 36 If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. 37 What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!'".
Mark 13:28-37 King James Version
28 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near: 29 So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors. 30 Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done. 31 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. 32 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. 33 Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.34 For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. 35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: 36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
Starting in verse 34, Jesus analogized Himself to a man going on a long journey and leaving His servants in charge. He commanded his porter or the one at the door to keep watch because you would not know when the master of the house would return. Verse 36 emphasizes that He should not catch you sleeping, i.e. unprepared for His return. He emphatically states in verse 37 that all are to keep watch for His return. It was not a suggestion or merely a good idea; it is a command given by Jesus Christ Himself, our Lord and Savior. As such, it is a command that is not to be taken lightly but rather is one that should be obeyed to the absolute best of our ability.
Finally, in the Revelation of John as Spirit addresses the church in Philadelphia, there is a promise for those who keep the faith. In verse 10, it is promised that the church will be kept from the hour of trial or temptation that is coming upon the whole world. It is widely interpreted that these verses refer to that time commonly described as the "Tribulation" which will be the seven years immediately preceding the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. For those who adhere to the pre-Tribulation viewpoint (as do I), this period will follow the Rapture of the church which is that event that we are to diligently anticipate.
Revelation 3:7-13 **New International Version
7 "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. 8 I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. 9 I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars-I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. 10 Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth. 11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. 12 Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will he leave it. I will write on him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on him my new name. 13 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
Revelation 3:7-13 King James Version
7 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; 8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. 9 Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. 10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. 13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
So when someone takes exception to those who watch for the return of Jesus to rapture or snatch away His believers, they need to know that we do it because we are commanded to do it by the One we love. By doing so we are past the point of being prepared; in fact, we now act to sound the alarm, begging the world around us to come to Christ in faith before the door is shut. When that door is shut, a time of travail such as has never been seen before will come upon the earth. That time is drawing ever closer and many of us believe that just as the fig tree gives evidence of the coming of summer, the current world events commencing with the re-assimilation of Israel manifest the nearness of the rapture of the saints. We do not want to be found sleeping but rather diligently working, preparing the way, for the advent of that time when we will depart this earth and spend our time at the wedding feast, celebrating with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. That is why we do it. Any questions?
** A modern language quote is provided for readability together with the accompanying KJV version which is believed by many to be a more accurate representation of the original scripture.
Comments or questions may be directed to the author at info@rapturenext.com.
By John R. Funk
There are a lot of people out there who display this attitude: What? Me Worry? Why should I? When they speak in these terms, it concerns the return of Jesus Christ to this earth to "rapture" or "snatch away" His believers. These individuals rightfully believe that Jesus will return whether or not they are looking for Him. They maintain that the Rapture of the saints will happen, if it happens, when God ordains and not before then.
Each of these statements is absolutely true upon its face so why do some people seem to be consumed by the idea of looking for Christ's return and anticipate that it could happen at any time? Isn't this just a big waste of time and effort? Why would reasonable, intelligent people spend their valuable time and money trying to persuade others that Jesus is coming soon and that they need to be prepared? More than just being prepared for His coming, these people scan the newspapers trying to tie world events to end times prophecies and actually want others to spend their time looking for the return of Jesus Christ. Are these people deluded, brainwashed or just hopeful that Someone will extricate them from the causes and concerns of life? In the meantime, aren't they failing to make the most out of life and bothering other good people who need to be living life to its fullest?
There is a poem written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow that chronicles the nighttime adventure of one particular individual in the year 1775; perhaps, you have read it sometime during your life. It is called "Paul Revere's Ride" and was written on April 19, 1860. The first part of the poem is as follows:
"Listen my children and you shall hear
Of the midnight ride of Paul Revere,
On the eighteenth of April, in Seventy-five;
Hardly a man is now alive
Who remembers that famous day and year.
He said to his friend, "If the British march
By land or sea from the town to-night,
Hang a lantern aloft in the belfry arch
Of the North Church tower as a signal light,--
One if by land, and two if by sea;
And I on the opposite shore will be,
Ready to ride and spread the alarm
Through every Middlesex village and farm,
For the country folk to be up and to arm."
The purpose of this chronicled event was to spread the alarm of the impending invasion by the British army who intended to quell the revolution by those upstarts who would call themselves Americans. Spreading the alarm - that is an interesting and compelling purpose for anyone, wouldn't you agree?
In today's world, what is there to be alarmed about? You can stop laughing now; it was rhetorical. Let us not kid ourselves. There is plenty to be alarmed about. Whether it is crime, war, terrorism, drugs, the economy, this week's latest natural disaster, increasing taxes, one world government, globalism, the loss of individual rights, your children's friends, the state of marriage or numerous other reasons, we have good cause for alarm. Evidence of the declining state of our world is shown by the number of people who rely upon antidepressants to just cope with each day. What is even more alarming than any of the reasons cited herein is the world's lack of preparedness for the return of Jesus Christ. Just look around you and see if you think that this world (and the church) is ready for the return of Christ. It is not and it is for this very reason that we should "sound the alarm."
In the context of the Olivet Discourse when Jesus spoke with His disciples about the end of the age, He indicated that even though we would not know the hour, we could discern the season. The fig tree was a metaphor for Israel and Jesus noted that you could tell when summer was near by the fact that the leaves were budding. Similarly, we should be able to tell when the end of time is near or "right at the door" by the condition of the world around us. Many place the seminal event or triggering point, i.e. the leaves budding out, as the re-assimilation of Israel in 1948; others point to 1967 when Israel took back Jerusalem. In any event these individuals focus on verse 34 which states that "this generation shall not pass away until all these things have happened."
Matthew 24:32-36 **New International Version
32 "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. 33 Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door. 34 I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. 35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. 36 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
Matthew 24:32-36 King James Version
32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: 33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. 34 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled. 35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
Jesus then went on to explain that the Rapture would take place when it was totally unexpected. Just like it was "in the days of Noah", people will be living life. They will be going about their work, eating, drinking and marrying. There will be no expectation by the world at large that this could be the end of the age as prophesied so long ago. Just like those people then, people will know nothing until it is too late. God shut the door of the ark after Noah and his family entered and the world then perished.
Matthew 24:37-44 **New International Version
37 As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 38 For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; 39 and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 40 Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. 41 Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left. 42 "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. 43 But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.
Matthew 24:37-44 King James Version
37 But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 38 For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, 39 And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 40 Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. 41 Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. 42 Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. 43 But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. 44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.
Those who take the attitude that Jesus is going to come when He is going to come and that there is no real reason to watch with anticipation fail to heed the admonition of verse 42. Jesus Himself commanded "Watch." The reason is that if one was diligent and kept watch, he would not be surprised and would be ready. If he is ready, then his house will not be broken up. Could this be a warning for us that by keeping watch, we will be able to avoid the breaking up of our homes? By keeping watch and anticipating His return, we will have an increased sense of urgency to try to witness to others and therefore fulfill the Great Commission (see Matthew 28:19-20).
In the following chapter of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus spoke of the parable of the ten virgins and the wedding party. In this parable all ten virgins clearly wanted to be there for the bridegroom as all ten had brought their lamps; however, only five had brought any oil for their lamps. All were sleeping when the bridegroom (a metaphor for Jesus) came as He had been a long time in coming but when the cry (or alarm) was sounded, they all woke up and trimmed their lamps. Only the five who were prepared were admitted. Even though they cried out to Him, the five who were unprepared were shut out; He did not know them. Once again we are commended to watch because we do not know the day nor the hour when Jesus will come again.
Matthew 25:1-13 **New International Version
1 "At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were wise. 3 The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. 4 The wise, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. 5 The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep. 6 "At midnight the cry rang out: 'Here's the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!' 7 "Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. 8 The foolish ones said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.' 9 "'No,' they replied, 'there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.' 10 "But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. 11 "Later the others also came. 'Sir! Sir!' they said. 'Open the door for us!' 12 "But he replied, 'I tell you the truth, I don't know you.' 13 "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.
25:1-13 King James Version
1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. 2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3 They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: 4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5 While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. 6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. 7 Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. 8 And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. 9 But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. 10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. 12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.
The Gospel of Mark addresses this same parable concerning the fig tree with many of the same ideas but there is an interesting admonition contained in his depiction.
Mark 13:28-37 **New International Version
28 "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. 29 Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that it is near, right at the door. 30 I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. 32 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. 34 It's like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with his assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. 35 Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back-whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. 36 If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. 37 What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!'".
Mark 13:28-37 King James Version
28 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near: 29 So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors. 30 Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done. 31 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. 32 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. 33 Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.34 For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. 35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: 36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
Starting in verse 34, Jesus analogized Himself to a man going on a long journey and leaving His servants in charge. He commanded his porter or the one at the door to keep watch because you would not know when the master of the house would return. Verse 36 emphasizes that He should not catch you sleeping, i.e. unprepared for His return. He emphatically states in verse 37 that all are to keep watch for His return. It was not a suggestion or merely a good idea; it is a command given by Jesus Christ Himself, our Lord and Savior. As such, it is a command that is not to be taken lightly but rather is one that should be obeyed to the absolute best of our ability.
Finally, in the Revelation of John as Spirit addresses the church in Philadelphia, there is a promise for those who keep the faith. In verse 10, it is promised that the church will be kept from the hour of trial or temptation that is coming upon the whole world. It is widely interpreted that these verses refer to that time commonly described as the "Tribulation" which will be the seven years immediately preceding the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. For those who adhere to the pre-Tribulation viewpoint (as do I), this period will follow the Rapture of the church which is that event that we are to diligently anticipate.
Revelation 3:7-13 **New International Version
7 "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. 8 I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. 9 I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars-I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. 10 Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth. 11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. 12 Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will he leave it. I will write on him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on him my new name. 13 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
Revelation 3:7-13 King James Version
7 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; 8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. 9 Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. 10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. 13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
So when someone takes exception to those who watch for the return of Jesus to rapture or snatch away His believers, they need to know that we do it because we are commanded to do it by the One we love. By doing so we are past the point of being prepared; in fact, we now act to sound the alarm, begging the world around us to come to Christ in faith before the door is shut. When that door is shut, a time of travail such as has never been seen before will come upon the earth. That time is drawing ever closer and many of us believe that just as the fig tree gives evidence of the coming of summer, the current world events commencing with the re-assimilation of Israel manifest the nearness of the rapture of the saints. We do not want to be found sleeping but rather diligently working, preparing the way, for the advent of that time when we will depart this earth and spend our time at the wedding feast, celebrating with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. That is why we do it. Any questions?
** A modern language quote is provided for readability together with the accompanying KJV version which is believed by many to be a more accurate representation of the original scripture.
Comments or questions may be directed to the author at info@rapturenext.com.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF COMMUNION.
The Overlooked, Crucial Significance of Taking Communion
Taking communion, to put it simply, is reflecting on what the Lord did for you on the cross at calvary. Whether you do so at church once in a while, or do this on a daily basis in your private home is up to you. We recommend taking it regularly, as the Lord directs. Reflecting on what Christ did for us is a commandment, that we do so in rememberance of Him. We all need to be cleansed by the Blood of Jesus for healing in one or more areas of our lives as discussed below (spirit, soul and/or body), and we recommend that you do so on a frequent basis.
Many Christians today doubt or are not likely to believe that the Lord will heal them. This unbelief, to be candid, is sin in and of itself, as unbelief in God's ability or willingness is literally doubting His Word. The apostle Paul wrote to those in the church at Corinth "For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep" (1 Cor. 11:30). He revealed the reason for their infirmities... they did not "discern the Lord's body" (see also 1 Cor. 11:29).
The truth in salvation is three-fold: spirit, soul, and body. For example: He was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities (this is for the forgiveness of sins, and eternal salvation with God); He suffered for our peace (this represents emotional healing); and by His stripes, we are healed (this is the physical aspect of our healing). Thus, He died so that we might live - through Him - in perfect wholeness, in peace, love, joy, health and prosperity (see 3 John 2) that we all can experience as we walk in obedience to Him.
The Importance of Honoring Him With Obedience:
Both sin and sickness became a reality after Adam was expelled from the garden. For this reason, early in scripture the Almighty God revealed Himself as a healer to all those who would trust in Him, i.e. Yahweh Rapha means "the Lord Who healeth thee". Exodus 15:26 proclaims: If thou wilt diligently harken to the voice of the Lord, thy God, and wilt do that which is right in His sight, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all of His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians; for I am the Lord that healeth thee.
God wants us to be both "holy" and "whole". A physically strong yet emotionally unstable person is not completely whole, nor is a person who is spiritually strong yet physically weak. It is the will of God to keep our tri-part being (spirit, soul and body) preserved until such time as our life is complete, or Christ returns, whichever comes first. 1 Thess. 5:23 states: The very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless until the coming of our Lord. (see also Heb. 12:14).
Paul said that many in the church of Corinth were "weak, sick and many slept", having used the word "slept" or "asleep" to describe the condition of the believer after death (see 1 Cor 15:51; 1 Thess 4:14; 1 Thess 5:10). The scriptures make it clear that a person can die before his or her appointed time through accidents, criminal acts, and sickness. However, many scriptures promise us long life, until we are satisfied, as long as we live in peace, walk in love, and trust in and are obedient to Him.
Obedience is not something to be taken lightly. That "still small voice" takes practice in getting to know and recognize when you do have an unction from the Holy Spirit. This ability only comes from spending time with the Lord in prayer and in His Word on a daily basis. The Lord said my sheep hear my voice, and that is what He is referring to. Those who love Him, follow in obedience to His ways, as His ways are higher than our ways. If you haven't learned this in your walk already, "renewing our minds" by spending time in prayer and in His word - daily - is one of the most crucial, yet basic things that we must do in order to remain spiritually strong in walking with Him. (See link entitled "renewing of our minds"). If we get distracted, and fall away from spending time with Him, we only become numb to hearing His voice and spiritually inept to His ways. Thus, we are prevented from being lead, directed, guided, and even protected when He would otherwise warn us about something, because we don't recognize the voice of the spirit.
Let me explain a little further. Like I said, listening to His voice takes practice and discernment. His Spirit communicates with our spirit, and unless you are walking with Him, then it could be easy to miss His direction or warning. He will put thoughts in your mind in an effort to lead you, but sometimes it seems like our own thoughts so we are quick to override them with our own reasoning. When in doubt, ask Him to confirm it with you, because the enemy also puts thoughts in our mind, but if it is from the Lord, then He will confirm it so you can go forward.
Living in Salvation is a Three-Fold Experience:
I would recommend that you review the first ten versus of the Isaiah 53 , but I will emphasize here the most important part... He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes, we are healed.
Seven hundred years later, the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy was completed in the New Testament when Jesus (the Messiah) would not open His mouth as He stood before judgment (Mark 15:3); when He was stricken for the transgressions of God's people (Matthew 8:17); when He died with the wicked (two thieves); and when He was buried in a rich man's grave (Mark 15:46). God made His soul a sin offering (Hebrews 10:9-10). Hence, the New Testament writers point to the fulfillment of Isaiah 53 in the life and ministry of Christ.
Therein, Isaiah, as God's annointed prophet, also revealed a three-fold redemptive work that would be accomplished through the suffering of fthe Messiah. Isaiah 53:5 reveals the mystery:
1. He was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquity. This speaks of spiritual healing and is related to the forgiveness of sins.
2. The chastisement of our peace was upon Him. This speaks of emotional healing for the mind, and the soul.
3. With His stripes, we are healed. This refers to physical healing for the body.
Spiritual healing transforms the human spirit; emotional healing renews the mind; and physical healing brings healing and life to the physical body. Healing for the whole person represents Christ's assignment of the three-part atonement. Most Christian churches only talk about one-third of the total provision given through Christ's work on the cross, i.e. the message of salvation, as though "salvation" is only a one-part experience. Of course, this is the ultimate message, for Christ's greatest assignment was to redeem mankind from sin. (We can always enter heaven with sickness, after having died earlier than expected, but we can never enter as a sinner who has not accepted Christ as their Savior).
At the same time, it's important that we don't underestimate the spiritual impact and purpose of Christ's suffering. It is time for the church to acknowledge that Christ not only died for the forgiveness of sin, but also to provide us with emotional and physical wholeness - through Him. How else can unbelievers become believers? Many believers don't believe! How could we, as Believers in Christ, ever appropriate the physical and emotional aspects of the covenant unless we are aware of the finished work of "redemption".
In sum, we were redeemed from the curse of sickness and disease, along with all of the other curses as referenced in Deuteronomy 28, when Jesus completed the Work of the Cross.. If you will read the Book of Deuteronomy, you will discover all of the curses that will fall upon us if we reject Christ and choose not to believe. On the other hand, it lists all of the promises that are given to those who walk in obedience - trusting in Him every step of the way (as mentioned at Deut 8:28). For more details on Deuteronomy, Chapter 28 with respect to "curses v. promises", see the link herein entitled "confessions for provision".
Pray and Examine Yourself Before Taking Communion:
I would encourage you to take communion as frequently as the Holy Spirit directs (or the thought enters your mind, which is His way of communicating with us). When you do, pray before entering into such a spiritually powerful covenant between you and God, Himself... Ensure that you are not ignoring any unconfessed sin, as He is quick to forgive and slow to anger.
Thank Him for redeeming you from the curse of sickness and disease... Thank Him for healing you (spirit, soul and body) through the Blood of Jesus... Ask for forgiveness for anything that may have dishonored Him (even if you can't think of anything), as you faithfully proclaim that you choose to forgive anyone who has offended you (important, as we must judge ourselves or we are not worthy, lest we be judged)... and thank Hiim for the bread, which represents Christ's body, and the wine/grape juice, which represents the blood which has been poured out for us... Thank Him for His presence... Lastly, thank Him for cleansing you with the Blood of Jesus.
While partaking of communion, focus on, or read out loud, the pertinent scriptures, some of which are as follows:
1 Cor. 11:23-26: (23) For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night in which He was betrayed, took bread: (24) and when He had given thanks, He brake it, and said, "Take, eat, this is My body, which is broken for you, this do in rememberance of Me"; (25) after the same manner also He took the cup, when He had supped, saying "This cup is the new testament in my blood; this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in rememberance of Me; (26) for as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till He come."
Luke 22:20: This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.
A More in-depth Study on the Practice of Taking Communion:
Perry Stone is the author of the book "The Meal that Heals" which is the most in-depth research on the subject that I know. This book coorelates how the Old Testament and New Covenant of the Bible come together, and reveals the true (or full) meaning of our salvation. Therein, you will learn that salvation is not only to be redeemed so that your spirit can spend all eternity with God, but elaborates on the truth that Christ died so that we could live in "an abundance of all good things" while still on the earth, as Christ, Himself stated, spirit, soul and body. You can order it from his web site at perrystone.org, or follow this link: http://www.voe.org/store/store.cfm?CFID=1115536&CFTOKEN=20603065&fxn=detail&pid=BK-MH
It should go without saying that Communion will not have any affects unless your already SAVED so here is a prayer that you can say to ask Jesus to SAVE your soul from HELL.
Romans: Chapter 10 verse 9-10-13
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the
Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that
God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shall be
Saved. For with the heart man believeth unto
righteousness; and with the mouth confession
is made unto Salvation. For whosoever shall call
upon the name of the Lord shall be Saved…….
“Father, I know that I have broken your
laws and my sins have separated me
from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want
to turn away from my past sinful life
toward You. Please forgive me, and help
me avoid sinning again. I believe that
Your Son, Jesus Christ died for my sins,
was resurrected from the dead, is alive,
and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to
become the Lord of my life, to rule and
reign in my heart from this day forward.
Please send your Holy Spirit to help me
obey You, and to do Your will for the rest
of my life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”
Taking communion, to put it simply, is reflecting on what the Lord did for you on the cross at calvary. Whether you do so at church once in a while, or do this on a daily basis in your private home is up to you. We recommend taking it regularly, as the Lord directs. Reflecting on what Christ did for us is a commandment, that we do so in rememberance of Him. We all need to be cleansed by the Blood of Jesus for healing in one or more areas of our lives as discussed below (spirit, soul and/or body), and we recommend that you do so on a frequent basis.
Many Christians today doubt or are not likely to believe that the Lord will heal them. This unbelief, to be candid, is sin in and of itself, as unbelief in God's ability or willingness is literally doubting His Word. The apostle Paul wrote to those in the church at Corinth "For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep" (1 Cor. 11:30). He revealed the reason for their infirmities... they did not "discern the Lord's body" (see also 1 Cor. 11:29).
The truth in salvation is three-fold: spirit, soul, and body. For example: He was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities (this is for the forgiveness of sins, and eternal salvation with God); He suffered for our peace (this represents emotional healing); and by His stripes, we are healed (this is the physical aspect of our healing). Thus, He died so that we might live - through Him - in perfect wholeness, in peace, love, joy, health and prosperity (see 3 John 2) that we all can experience as we walk in obedience to Him.
The Importance of Honoring Him With Obedience:
Both sin and sickness became a reality after Adam was expelled from the garden. For this reason, early in scripture the Almighty God revealed Himself as a healer to all those who would trust in Him, i.e. Yahweh Rapha means "the Lord Who healeth thee". Exodus 15:26 proclaims: If thou wilt diligently harken to the voice of the Lord, thy God, and wilt do that which is right in His sight, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all of His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians; for I am the Lord that healeth thee.
God wants us to be both "holy" and "whole". A physically strong yet emotionally unstable person is not completely whole, nor is a person who is spiritually strong yet physically weak. It is the will of God to keep our tri-part being (spirit, soul and body) preserved until such time as our life is complete, or Christ returns, whichever comes first. 1 Thess. 5:23 states: The very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless until the coming of our Lord. (see also Heb. 12:14).
Paul said that many in the church of Corinth were "weak, sick and many slept", having used the word "slept" or "asleep" to describe the condition of the believer after death (see 1 Cor 15:51; 1 Thess 4:14; 1 Thess 5:10). The scriptures make it clear that a person can die before his or her appointed time through accidents, criminal acts, and sickness. However, many scriptures promise us long life, until we are satisfied, as long as we live in peace, walk in love, and trust in and are obedient to Him.
Obedience is not something to be taken lightly. That "still small voice" takes practice in getting to know and recognize when you do have an unction from the Holy Spirit. This ability only comes from spending time with the Lord in prayer and in His Word on a daily basis. The Lord said my sheep hear my voice, and that is what He is referring to. Those who love Him, follow in obedience to His ways, as His ways are higher than our ways. If you haven't learned this in your walk already, "renewing our minds" by spending time in prayer and in His word - daily - is one of the most crucial, yet basic things that we must do in order to remain spiritually strong in walking with Him. (See link entitled "renewing of our minds"). If we get distracted, and fall away from spending time with Him, we only become numb to hearing His voice and spiritually inept to His ways. Thus, we are prevented from being lead, directed, guided, and even protected when He would otherwise warn us about something, because we don't recognize the voice of the spirit.
Let me explain a little further. Like I said, listening to His voice takes practice and discernment. His Spirit communicates with our spirit, and unless you are walking with Him, then it could be easy to miss His direction or warning. He will put thoughts in your mind in an effort to lead you, but sometimes it seems like our own thoughts so we are quick to override them with our own reasoning. When in doubt, ask Him to confirm it with you, because the enemy also puts thoughts in our mind, but if it is from the Lord, then He will confirm it so you can go forward.
Living in Salvation is a Three-Fold Experience:
I would recommend that you review the first ten versus of the Isaiah 53 , but I will emphasize here the most important part... He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes, we are healed.
Seven hundred years later, the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy was completed in the New Testament when Jesus (the Messiah) would not open His mouth as He stood before judgment (Mark 15:3); when He was stricken for the transgressions of God's people (Matthew 8:17); when He died with the wicked (two thieves); and when He was buried in a rich man's grave (Mark 15:46). God made His soul a sin offering (Hebrews 10:9-10). Hence, the New Testament writers point to the fulfillment of Isaiah 53 in the life and ministry of Christ.
Therein, Isaiah, as God's annointed prophet, also revealed a three-fold redemptive work that would be accomplished through the suffering of fthe Messiah. Isaiah 53:5 reveals the mystery:
1. He was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquity. This speaks of spiritual healing and is related to the forgiveness of sins.
2. The chastisement of our peace was upon Him. This speaks of emotional healing for the mind, and the soul.
3. With His stripes, we are healed. This refers to physical healing for the body.
Spiritual healing transforms the human spirit; emotional healing renews the mind; and physical healing brings healing and life to the physical body. Healing for the whole person represents Christ's assignment of the three-part atonement. Most Christian churches only talk about one-third of the total provision given through Christ's work on the cross, i.e. the message of salvation, as though "salvation" is only a one-part experience. Of course, this is the ultimate message, for Christ's greatest assignment was to redeem mankind from sin. (We can always enter heaven with sickness, after having died earlier than expected, but we can never enter as a sinner who has not accepted Christ as their Savior).
At the same time, it's important that we don't underestimate the spiritual impact and purpose of Christ's suffering. It is time for the church to acknowledge that Christ not only died for the forgiveness of sin, but also to provide us with emotional and physical wholeness - through Him. How else can unbelievers become believers? Many believers don't believe! How could we, as Believers in Christ, ever appropriate the physical and emotional aspects of the covenant unless we are aware of the finished work of "redemption".
In sum, we were redeemed from the curse of sickness and disease, along with all of the other curses as referenced in Deuteronomy 28, when Jesus completed the Work of the Cross.. If you will read the Book of Deuteronomy, you will discover all of the curses that will fall upon us if we reject Christ and choose not to believe. On the other hand, it lists all of the promises that are given to those who walk in obedience - trusting in Him every step of the way (as mentioned at Deut 8:28). For more details on Deuteronomy, Chapter 28 with respect to "curses v. promises", see the link herein entitled "confessions for provision".
Pray and Examine Yourself Before Taking Communion:
I would encourage you to take communion as frequently as the Holy Spirit directs (or the thought enters your mind, which is His way of communicating with us). When you do, pray before entering into such a spiritually powerful covenant between you and God, Himself... Ensure that you are not ignoring any unconfessed sin, as He is quick to forgive and slow to anger.
Thank Him for redeeming you from the curse of sickness and disease... Thank Him for healing you (spirit, soul and body) through the Blood of Jesus... Ask for forgiveness for anything that may have dishonored Him (even if you can't think of anything), as you faithfully proclaim that you choose to forgive anyone who has offended you (important, as we must judge ourselves or we are not worthy, lest we be judged)... and thank Hiim for the bread, which represents Christ's body, and the wine/grape juice, which represents the blood which has been poured out for us... Thank Him for His presence... Lastly, thank Him for cleansing you with the Blood of Jesus.
While partaking of communion, focus on, or read out loud, the pertinent scriptures, some of which are as follows:
1 Cor. 11:23-26: (23) For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night in which He was betrayed, took bread: (24) and when He had given thanks, He brake it, and said, "Take, eat, this is My body, which is broken for you, this do in rememberance of Me"; (25) after the same manner also He took the cup, when He had supped, saying "This cup is the new testament in my blood; this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in rememberance of Me; (26) for as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till He come."
Luke 22:20: This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.
A More in-depth Study on the Practice of Taking Communion:
Perry Stone is the author of the book "The Meal that Heals" which is the most in-depth research on the subject that I know. This book coorelates how the Old Testament and New Covenant of the Bible come together, and reveals the true (or full) meaning of our salvation. Therein, you will learn that salvation is not only to be redeemed so that your spirit can spend all eternity with God, but elaborates on the truth that Christ died so that we could live in "an abundance of all good things" while still on the earth, as Christ, Himself stated, spirit, soul and body. You can order it from his web site at perrystone.org, or follow this link: http://www.voe.org/store/store.cfm?CFID=1115536&CFTOKEN=20603065&fxn=detail&pid=BK-MH
It should go without saying that Communion will not have any affects unless your already SAVED so here is a prayer that you can say to ask Jesus to SAVE your soul from HELL.
Romans: Chapter 10 verse 9-10-13
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the
Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that
God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shall be
Saved. For with the heart man believeth unto
righteousness; and with the mouth confession
is made unto Salvation. For whosoever shall call
upon the name of the Lord shall be Saved…….
“Father, I know that I have broken your
laws and my sins have separated me
from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want
to turn away from my past sinful life
toward You. Please forgive me, and help
me avoid sinning again. I believe that
Your Son, Jesus Christ died for my sins,
was resurrected from the dead, is alive,
and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to
become the Lord of my life, to rule and
reign in my heart from this day forward.
Please send your Holy Spirit to help me
obey You, and to do Your will for the rest
of my life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”