Dennis1209

21 hours ago, Desopixi Seilynam said:

I believe strongly that a.i. is indeed the life of the image of the beast.
The phones we all carry around and worship is the platform for the image.
Eventually the image will rise from them, and a.i. in them will know who watches and who does not, and will be able to send a signal out to kill those who don't watch.

 

For brevity, I will not cite my examples and suspicions, but I believe our smartphones are listening to us, given the numerous coincidences that support this claim. AI is now creeping in and expanding in every aspect of our lives, including smart appliances and personal assistants. I do not doubt that AI will play a significant role in the end times.

Individual smartphones are a significant tool in solving crime, constantly tracking your every movement unless the power source is removed. Our government has acknowledged that falling behind in the advancement of AI technology is a primary national security concern.

I understand that AI is being consulted and experimented with in battlefield decisions, defense, and attacks, and it probably played a role in the bunker-buster attack in Iran.

I believe we witnessed a recent, primitive prelude to some technology that many have missed. How many high-ranking terrorist heads were taken off by Israel via smartphone?

Revelation 13:14 (KJV) And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had 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 a sword, and did live. [emphasis added]

It seems men and our technology create the image of the beast. Has anyone noticed the life-like images and voices popping up on YouTube and other places? The following public video is years old of primitive AI technology; imagine what DARPA programs have advanced to today:

We Talked To Sophia — The AI Robot That Once Said It Would 'Destroy Humans'

Could this man-made technological wonder of the image of the beast be a projection of holograms, AI, robotics, nanotechnology, and demonic possession? Who would have ever thunk of such a thing decades ago?

If the above does not raise our spidey senses and raise the hair on the back of the neck, look at the incredible advancements with robotic dogs, birds, and insects (mini drones) that could easily be adapted as assassins.

These things are no longer conspiracy theories or wild imagination; they are not coming; they are here now. This generation can now envision how the Two Witnesses and other prophetic events will be viewed in real-time with live streaming.

For approval please:

 

1 hour ago, tatwo said:

Greeting Brothers and Sisters on the forums...! Today...we shall overcome.

Given the somewhat "emergent nature" of this discussion? One might come to the conclusion that there is a certain amount of “spiritual instability” in maintaining a position of “the beast is yet future.”

At this point...entertaining any “suspicion” that the “beast” may be here today...or in the past...would seemingly compel those who love the Truth...to a deeper dive into this reality with the “living Word” as a light to our path way.

Please remember the descriptions that Daniel and John respectively gave of the beast they saw? It is the same beast...seen about 600 years apart...there are changes in the descriptions...all the changes indicate an entity that is growing in size and power along with the scope of that which it controls. Perhaps you might refresh yourself...?

“After this I kept looking in the night visions, and behold, a fourth beast, dreadful and terrifying and extremely strong; and it had large iron teeth. It devoured and crushed and trampled down the remainder with its feet; and it was different from all the beasts that were before it, and it had ten horns. "While I was contemplating the horns, behold, another horn, a little one, came up among them, and three of the first horns were pulled out by the roots before it; and behold, this horn possessed eyes like the eyes of a man and a mouth uttering great boasts.” Daniel 7:7-8 NASB

“And the dragon stood on the sand of the seashore. Then I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were blasphemous names. And the beast which I saw was like a leopard, and his feet were like those of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. And the dragon gave him his power and his throne and great authority. I saw one of his heads as if it had been slain, and his fatal wound was healed. And the whole earth was amazed and followed after the beast; they worshiped the dragon because he gave his authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, "Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war with him?" There was given to him a mouth speaking arrogant words and blasphemies, and authority to act for forty-two months was given to him. And he opened his mouth in blasphemies against God, to blaspheme His name and His tabernacle, that is, those who dwell in heaven. It was also given to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them, and authority over every tribe and people and tongue and nation was given to him. All who dwell on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been slain.” Revelation 13:1-8 NASB

@Dennis1209, and @Vine Abider...if what you are “intimating” which is the possibility of the “beast systems” in play...today...that should inspire...specifically...the people of God to call it out as it is...right?

I am suggesting that the challenge for the “church” and the “world” is...that to a large degree most do not recognize the empire that is and has been emerging for centuries...today. So...they do not know what it is that they are looking at...it is so vastly different than any empire that preceded it...few have any basis for understanding it...right?

The Holy Spirit completely understands this beast...and the “Words” that He gave and gives us clearly illuminates His understanding...all we need is His mind...which we have. Remember that He can and does disturb false doctrines.

It was the glorious Lord of lord and King of kings...Yahshua the eternal...who is recorded as having said..."Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am He,' and, 'The time has drawn near.' Therefore do not go after them."

Tatwo...:)

I do not have any special prophetic insight. I examine today’s technology, which has never been seen, and apply it to how the “beast system” can be realized. To get the MOB requires allegiance and worship of the Beast, selling one's soul.

The “beast system” structure is in place and being implemented at present (i.e., Agenda 2030, a cashless society, etc.).

One brief example: How long ago was it that people wondered how the Two Witnesses could be viewed in real time globally, and send presents around the world rapidly, celebrating their demise? Today, that is a no-brainer: FedEx next-day or same-day delivery, billions of smartphones, live streaming, and more.

9 hours ago, Michael37 said:

I like to give the historical fulfillment of this passage whenever it crops up, not that drawing analogies from it is wrong, but the gist of it is there is a false security that supposes escape from Divine Judgment is possible through political alliances, as though a covenant with death and hell has been made so that neither will result when God overrules human contrivances.

Isaiah 28:15 refers to a moment when the leaders of Jerusalem claimed, “We have made a covenant with death, and with Sheol we are in agreement,” believing they could avoid judgment through political alliances or deceptive strategies. Historically, this is widely understood as a rebuke of Judah’s leaders—likely during the time leading up to the Assyrian threat in the 8th century BC.

Many scholars connect this verse to Judah’s alliance with Egypt, which they hoped would protect them from Assyria. Isaiah saw this as a false security—a “refuge of lies”—because they were trusting in human schemes rather than in God. The “overflowing scourge” likely symbolizes the Assyrian invasion, which Isaiah warned would not spare them despite their supposed deal with death.

It’s a powerful example of prophetic irony: the people thought they were safe, but their confidence was built on deception. The verse also has layers of meaning that some interpret as foreshadowing spiritual truths about judgment and salvation.

 

The pericope of Isaiah 28:15 could be, “They made their bed, now they will have to lie in it,” or God’s cornerstone rejected by Judah’s leaders.

Interpretation of Isaiah 28:15 is all over the place, with both historical and modern-day scholars and theologians. As you mentioned, most commentaries connect it with history, specifically an alliance and broken agreement for protection, where Egypt failed to come to Judah’s aid as promised. However, I hold the minority view, which is connected to Daniel 9:27 and is yet to be fulfilled, a shadow and dual prophecy.

If my view is somewhat accurate, it has particular prophetic relevance for today, given the recent and escalating events since October 7, 2023. Israel has yet to call upon the name of the Lord for deliverance and protection.

Today, Israel is isolated and surrounded by an inner and outer ring of hostile nations (a cup of trembling) hell-bent on her annihilation, to remember Israel no more with a fragile peace treaty with Egypt and Jordan that could collapse on a dime. Israel is not dependent on the Lord but the US for the Iron Dome, technology, military equipment, manufacturing, weapons, assistance, and support. In a sense, we are the historical Egypt.

I suspect the event that transpired yesterday will unleash and lead to unfulfilled prophetic events in the not-too-distant future. There is an intriguing prophecy in Jeremiah 49 about Elam, which, although not yet historically fulfilled, foretells a humanitarian crisis that evokes images of radioactive fallout. Elam today encompasses 1/6 of S.W. Iran, enclosed by a mountain range.

I am surprised that in yesterday’s attack, Iran’s Bushehr nuclear facility was not targeted, and it may be a part of future attacks as promised with bunker-buster weaponry. That area is also the most active and hazardous seismic zone on the planet.

Zechariah 12:3 (KJV) And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it. Ezekiel 38:15-16 (KJV) And thou shalt come from thy place out of the north parts, thou, and many people with thee, all of them riding upon horses, a great company, and a mighty army: ¹⁶ And thou shalt come up against my people of Israel, as a cloud to cover the land; it shall be in the latter days, and I will bring thee against my land, that the heathen may know me, when I shall be sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes.

All means all, including the US. If we suppose we still exist. Trump, an ardent supporter and friend of Israel, is the most hated and despised president in the US. History. They are doing everything possible to remove him from office via impeachment or a body bag. Nonetheless, God’s plan and will will be realized according to His perfect timing.

Regardless of prophetic exegesis and timing, I think we can agree that strategic alliances, pacts, geopolitical alignments, and events have unfolded on the pages of God’s word, both before and after May 14, 1948. Because of the Abraham Accords, we can even see why Saudi Arabia, UAE, and perhaps Kuwait are bystanders in the Gog-Magog invasion and question the invasion.

12 hours ago, Michael37 said:

It's hard to comprehend anyone marketing themselves as the man in question.

Consider this: I am going to step out on a limb here and postulate a logical scenario. Israel will have no choice but to sign a covenant with death and hell for its very survival.

Isaiah 28:15 (KJV) Because ye have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves:

Given the lateness of the prophetic hour, I suspect the players are established and set in concrete, following the biblical narrative to the tee. That be what we see today, the United Nations, NATO, and the Warsaw Pact. To me, it does not sound like the entire world submits and follows the Antichrist. There is much opposition against him and plenty of war, A/C goes forward to conquer.

He is a brilliant military strategist and no doubt has a proven track record, a man with a plan. His demonic, mesmerizing eloquence skills will make Hitler look and sound like a babbler. I do not see dictatorships like Russia, China, North Korea, etc. in lockstep. I take it he is probably associated with the European Union.

It seems logical to conclude that he rises through the political-military ranks, perhaps achieving the Secretary General of the U.N., European Union President, or both. The goal and objective of U.N. Agenda 2021 and 2030, as established at present, is global control and submission, under the guise of climate change and global sustainability.

These suspicions are unfolding at breakneck speed. I believe this generation will be the one to witness it.

1 hour ago, tatwo said:

Greetings @Dennis1209...

About this last sentence..."The Beast system has developed right before our eyes, in this generation." Am I correct in interpreting you as saying...that the beast is here also? As it would be that...which is developing its systems...right?

I know that might seem like a lame question...the answer seems obvious. However in my experience in forums and in the church...traditionally I have encountered a significant portion of those I have discussed this with...believing that the beast is "yet future."

I know where I stand on the issue and am confident in that place...and I am open for discussion and understanding even if it to simply understand another's view of something. 

It would seem that for those who see the beast as yet future...typically they also see the mark as future? I can see their point.

For those who see the beast as present...do they see the mark as present also?

Frankly I remember having very few discussions on the subject of the beast and its mark as a present reality. As I said...it has all most always been a discussion about a future beast and its mark. 

It appears like there would be significant competing "doctrines" between each view?

I will say...again...I have not encountered much reading and discussion...some...but not much...about the beast as a "present reality." I can see that you and @Vine Abider are perhaps at different places...yet the issue of a "present beast" is in view here? Am I right...or am I misinterpreting this idea in some way?

Relatively speaking it is rare that I have had a discussion in a forum or with the locals...where we were discussing the beast as "present today" even less in discussion about a present "mark of the beast." 

Tatwo...:)

No. I did not say nor imply the beast is here on Earth yet. However, since you brought it up, given all the biblical end-time indicators, I suspect he is, but I do not know that for a fact.

Ai is touted as the new electricity, in other words, indispensable and part of everyday life. AI is being implemented, refined, and expanded everywhere, taking away good paying blue-collar jobs, Amazon making the latest significant switch.

The Bible implies commercialism and consumerism are on steroids during the end times. I envision two distinct Mystery Babylon’s, commercial Babylon, and spiritual Babylon.

It is almost undisputed one man will be controlling commerce and all buying and selling, the Antichrist. An Army of people or any algorithm can not approve or disapprove instant approval or disapproval of goods or services. I envision the damnable mark of the beast as a type of religious social credit score, you are either connected into the system, or not.

There will not be legal cash or fiat paper tender for any transactions. We see the implementation of a global cashless world as we speak, everyone is reduced to digital ones and zeroes. The Beast system has developed right before our eyes, in this generation.

I have been Chicken Little on AI for many years, and more pieces of the sky are falling by the day.

12 hours ago, Marilyn C said:

Morning Dennis,

What is the `cricket chirping?` And some good scriptures there -Eph. 1: 4      3: 6

I agree with some of what you wrote - `sharing all things in Christ...` but not all `the promises to Abraham.` You see he was promised the land of Israel. We are not privy to that. He was also promised the city which will come down out of heaven from God. We are not in that city. (Heb. 11: 9,  16)

The reference to crickets chirping is an American idiom for silence and inactivity. A good topic that no one had yet participated in.

Before I comment on the topic at hand, I would like to ask if you could create another thread for discussion about your unique country from a biblical perspective. Your thoughts on how and when (i.e., Noah's flood, Pangea, etc.) would be appreciated.

Australia is so diverse in its animals and indigenous people, not found anywhere else in the world. There are so many species of deadly and venomous snakes, spiders, kangaroos, platypus, echidna, wombats, emu, dingo, Tasmanian devil, etc. I am not aware of any fossil records or evidence of them on any other continent.

Now, back to our regularly scheduled program:  

Granted, I omitted specific promises that pertain to Israel's promised land grant, boundaries specified in the Bible, multiplying as the sand of the sea, etc. Nonetheless, Jews and Gentiles will share the inheritance of Christ.

Now, the city that will come down from heaven, I take as the New Jerusalem:

John 14:2 (KJV) In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. Revelation 21:2 (KJV) And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

I am not adamant about this, but it seems only he that overcometh (Rev. 21:7) will inherit the kingdom and their new eternal home.  

Revelation 21:12-14 (KJV) And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: ¹³ On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. ¹⁴ And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

Our faith is built upon a Rock, our foundation (Jesus); all others are sinking sand; it is our foundation. The twelve foundations of the holy city are built upon the twelve who spread the Good News throughout the known world. I suspect the gates represent the twelve tribes of God's chosen people and the Law. The foundation is built upon the Gospel of Christ.

Admittedly, I have wrestled with whether our eternal home will be in the Third heaven, or on earth, in the New Jerusalem. Again, I am not dogmatic in my view, but God's original plan for mankind will be realized in eternity. In that, man was created out of the dust of the earth, on the earth, to tend and take dominion of the world. Therefore, I surmise Earth will be our eternal home.

The Lord mentions the universe almost as an afterthought, His handiwork for His glory. Little is mentioned about the universe and its purpose; it is all Earth-centered.

Imagine the dozens of physics that must come together proportionally and precisely for all life to be sustained and thrive (ocean tides, percent of oxygen, Co2 and other gasses, ozone and magnetic canopies reducing radiation, the precise position of the moon and sun, our location in the galaxy, the ecology system interacting together, the blessing and miracle of reproduction and birth, our recycling hydrology and earth, and dozens of other examples earth is a special place created for man.

The Earth will not be annihilated; it will be refurbished and cleansed by fervent heat and fit for our eternal occupation, as I view it.

2 Peter 3:10 (KJV) But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

Touche – Quid Pro Quo 😊

6 hours ago, Marilyn C said:

What is our Inheritance?

We know that Christ has redeemed us and is sanctifying us and making us like unto Himself, however, what is our inheritance?

With scriptures, please.

Interesting topic, Marilyn. I am surprised at the cricket chirping, LOL.

There are different types of inheritances: permanent, temporary, full, partial, restricted, limited, omitted, etc. My thoughts on biblical inheritance are as follows:

Ephesians 1:14 (KJV) Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

In short, we can call it a blessing, being with Christ for all eternity, an unmerited favor. The process involves justification, sanctification, and glorification, sharing all things in Christ and being grafted into the promises given to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as well as the Kingdom age. Is it an inheritance earned?

I like how the LTW defines an inheritance (a partial copy/paste):

συγκληρονόμος (synklēronomos). adj. coheir. A person who shares in an inheritance with someone else.

This word is used in the nt to describe multiple people who inherit together the blessings of a relationship with God. Temporal inheritances in the Bible are usually disproportionally divided in favor of a particular heir, usually the oldest son, but, judging from sources contemporaneous with the nt, the concept and practice of coheirs was generally familiar in the nt world. In Romans 8:17, Paul calls Christians coheirs (synklēronomos) with Christ. Ephesians 3:6 states that Gentiles are joint heirs (synklēronomos) with the Jews of God’s promise. Hebrews 11:9 joins together Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as coheirs (synklēronomos). First Peter 3:7 describes husbands and wives as joint heirs (synklēronomos).^[1]

 

If I sat down and thought about it, I could name a dozen events where a segment of society jumped to conclusions before all the facts were established. As mentioned, it is more crucial than ever to consider where we glean our information from.

Journalism, facts, and objective reporting is a rare commodity these days. Sensationalism, spin, half-truths, bias, propaganda, and hatred are the liberal agenda, perverting and lying to shape public opinion and emotions for votes and an agenda.

Look at our replacement generation; they have not been educated but indoctrinated by drinking the grape Kool-Aid.

Since the Vietnam era campus draft dodgers and protestors, many of these people have made a concerted effort to infiltrate politics, education, news media, and Hollywood.

There are so many today who think and act on hate, bias, and raw emotion, have lost critical thinking and reasoning, and have lost any semblance of morals and values. How much longer before our grade school children hold school protests and riots?

Tell a big enough lie long enough, and people will start to believe it. ~J.G.

The apostle Paul was unique:

Paul compared himself to other apostles in various ways, often emphasizing his unique position and experiences. He defended his apostleship through the miracles he performed, which were considered signs of apostolic ministry. He referred to himself as "one born at the wrong time," suggesting an abnormal manner of becoming an apostle, which he saw as proof of his apostleship.

1 Corinthians 15:8 (KJV) And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.

He included himself among a wider group of apostles beyond the Twelve, mentioning his experience of seeing the risen Christ after the ascension. I believe Paul was personally mentored by Jesus Himself at or around Mount Sinai (Jebal Musa) for three years.

Nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went immediately into Arabia and later returned to Damascus. We assume this sojourn in Arabia, lasting as long as three years (1:18), probably started shortly after Paul’s conversion in about the year A.D. 32 (Jesus was crucified and raised from the dead at about the year A.D. 30, and a number of events occurred in the early Christian church between that time and Paul’s conversion).^[1]

Galatians 1:17-18 (KJV) Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. ¹⁸ Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days.

Paul was the only one given the honor and privilege to reveal essential mysteries about the church, the Rapture, and the Resurrection.

Paul’s writings have been obfuscated by the father of lies through other religions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam (72 virgins, other ways to heaven, etc.).

Today, humanity has an aversion and hatred of absolutes, and where our morals and values originate. The mantra and character today are that we are our own gods. The earth dwellers today choose darkness over truth. Paul was given to the Gentiles.

Galatians 2:7-8 (KJV) But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; ⁸ (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:)

18 hours ago, Marilyn C said:

Hi Dennis,

Great to have a discussion on one point. Now what those esteemed men have said is good however one point doesn`t match up with scripture. You see God is everywhere by His Holy Spirit and as King David said if he went to hell God would be there. (Ps. 139: 8)

That then would be ridiculous saying that hell is heaven. So, saying wherever God is, is heaven is not correct.

Heaven is a place and a word used for the three areas -

1. Atmospheric heavens where the birds fly, rain etc. (James 5: 17)

2. The Universal heavens - the sun, moon and planets etc. (Gen. 1: 14)

3. The third heaven - the invisible realm where God`s throne is. (Isa. 66: 1    Col. 1: 16)

God`s word tells us some things about heaven - the invisible third heaven.

`...you have come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the first-born who are registered in heaven, to God the judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel.` (Heb. 12: 22 - 24)

So we have in the third heaven -

God the Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. 

Innumerable company of angels - who minister to believers. (Heb. 1: 14)

Mount Zion - the ruling area of God`s throne and Jesus will have His own throne (authority) there too. (Ps. 2: 6)

General Assembly - the church - the believers in the Body of Christ who are asleep in Christ. When the whole Body is gathered together they will go to the Lord`s own throne on Mount Zion. (Ps. 2: 6   Rev. 3: 21)

The New Jerusalem city - this symbolically has streets of gold, meaning those who by faith looked for this city as God promised them. (Heb. 11: 16) Faith being more precious than gold. (1 Peter 1: 7)

This city will come down out of the third heaven and reside in the Universal area. There it will be the administrative center for God`s rulership through Israel over the earth.

It is also the means whereby God connects and interlocks the spiritual and physical realms. The symbol of this is the `Bride,` representing this connecting and interlocking. (Rev. 21: 2 & 9 - 11)

The spirits of just men (& women) -these are the Old Testament saints who have been promised a city in the heavens. (Heb. 11: 16) In the new heavens and earth they will come down out of heaven with the city ruling over the earth.

The Blood - eternal redemption. (Heb. 9: 12)

 

Hi Ya,

I suppose our doctrines vary on a few points. I would also like to add @AdHoc to the conversation, he has been as quiet as a church mouse lately. Let’s talk about Hell as you mentioned, better translated hades.

Acts 2:27 (KJV) Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

We remember the conversation between Abraham (Abraham’s bosom), a place of comfort, and the rich man, a place of torment, separated by a great divide. This is not a parable, most agree a parable never uses real people.

Therefore, there were, or still are two sides of Hades. Many contend, as I do, the comfort side was cleaned out at Christ’s resurrection.

Matthew 27:52-53 (KJV) And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, ⁵³ And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.

Ecclesiastes 12:7 (KJV) Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

The apostle Paul mentioned a change in where as souls and spirit reside from the resurrection of Christ. Thus, in the Christian era, Abraham’s bosom is bypassed

2 Corinthians 5:6-8 (KJV) Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: ⁷ (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) ⁸ We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.

Now let us talk about Hades, not to be confused with the Lake of Fire. An analogy of Hades would be a jail, where the accused are confined and held awaiting their trial, hearing, conviction, and punishment. Note: Satan, the Antichrist, and False Prophet have already been condemned without a trial.

The Lake of Fire is the prison sentence, the second death penalty, for all of eternity. With that thought, how does God’s omnipresence factor in? I propose that in these areas, God’s omnipresence is vacated; after all, what is Hell? Hell, and the Lake of Fire by definition, are the absence of God, no communication or possibility of prayer, continual pain and torment, zero blessings, and no hope, redemption, or second chances.

However, I will not disagree with you, God’s omnipresence is everywhere, all the time. All the commentaries I read state that God’s omnipresence is even in Hell. Perhaps I should reconsider my hermeneutics.  

11 hours ago, Marilyn C said:

Hi Dennis,

Yes from `up above,` in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.

Thank you for asking about why I believe we, the Body of Christ`s eternal destination is in heaven and not on the earth.

Now you said - `...heaven is coming to earth.`  The mind boggles at that one. Have you ever seen how small our earth is in relation to the universal heavens let alone the third heaven. Remember God`s word tells us that the New Jerusalem comes OUT of heaven from God. No, dear bro, heaven does not come to earth. (Rev. 21: 2)

You wrote some good thoughts about man and the garden. As to `angel`s food,` I think that just refers to food that God rained down from the atmospheric heavens. It was like coriander seed and when ground, beaten and cooked tasted like pastry with oil. (Num. 11: 7 & 8)

But no, I don`t think angel`s eat our sort of food. They don`t work for food but are `ministering spirits sent forth to minster to those who will inherit salvation.` (Heb. 1: 14)

Now there are no scriptures that say the Body of Christ will be on the earth as their eternal inheritance. Rather -

Our inheritance, our hope, our place, our citizenship, all of which are IN HEAVEN.

 `...to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you.` (1 Peter 1: 4 )

` ...because of the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, of which you heard before in the word of truth..`(Col. 1: 5)

` ...and raised us up together and made to sit in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.`(Eph. 2: 6)

` For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly await for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.` (Phil. 3: 20)

(New King James)

As to the `wife, the bride,` that is God`s relationship with Israel. God is their husband, meaning master. (Isa. 54: 5 & 6    Hos. 3: 19 & 20)

 

 

Hi Marilyn,

Thank you for your response. I am enjoying the comparison of our biblical views and examining your interpretation, as my perspective might be flawed, and I am seldom adamant on secondary issues (iron sharpens iron). In my previous post(s), I used the words' heaven' and 'kingdom' rather loosely.

I think it would go a long way to define "what makes Heaven, Heaven." Rather than render my definition like I usually do, I am going to quote a combination of Adrian Rogers, C.H. Spurgeon, and Joseph Exell, excellent and well-known theologians, and scholars.

What makes Heaven truly Heaven is not primarily its physical attributes but rather the presence of God and Jesus Christ. Being with Christ is "the glory of heaven" and "the magnetism of heaven". Heaven's greatest joy is being in the company of Christ, "Heaven without Christ would be but an empty place." Heaven is characterized by the perfect fulfillment of God's will. In Heaven, God's will is done voluntarily, consciously, totally, joyously, universally, and uninterruptedly. This perfect obedience and alignment with God's will is what creates the heavenly state. Additionally, Heaven is described as a place of close, uninterrupted fellowship with God, contrasting with the limited and intermittent experiences of God's presence that believers have on earth. It's worth noting that while some articles mention physical descriptions of Heaven from biblical sources, such as "streets made out of gold" or "vessels for the storage of rainwater," these are not presented as the essence of what makes Heaven, Heaven.

From the above, and my thoughts, where Jesus physically is, on His throne, rules, and reigns, that is a description of Heaven, Heaven coming to earth. Do you agree or disagree with the definition of Heaven presented?

From the book, 'Dennis-Second Opinions,' Chapter One, How Do You Eat an Elephant? One bite at a time. 😊 I would like to discuss the rest of the views we are talking about after I get your view of what defines the first and third Heaven.

10 hours ago, Marilyn C said:

We will not be on the New Earth but in glory with the Lord. (Rev. 3: 21) 

Good morning from up above, Marilyn.

I would like to hear your scriptural evidence on why you believe our eternal destination is in heaven, and not on the earth if you will. My exegesis is as follows:

From the beginning, as intended and created, man was created out of the earth, on the earth, and for the earth, given care, and dominion over the earth (a special place created for us). God’s eternal plan was subverted by temptation and one man’s sin. Nonetheless, God’s original plan will come to fruition in the future. God has not changed His mind.

In the garden, the responsibility was to tend the fruit and pulse (gardening) to feed themselves (with exceptions, there are no free meals). In this regard and related, let me pose an interesting question, angel food (manna). I suspect manna is a heavenly seed or grain, ground up and prepared for bread. Is angel food created ex nihilo, or do angels too work for and tend their bread?

Admittedly, at one time I thought Christians (the church age) would spend eternity in Heaven, the dwelling place of God the Father. John 1:18 (KJV) No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. John 6:46 (KJV) Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father. Exodus 33:20 (KJV) And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.

In my view, the kingdom of God is where Christ physically manifests, rules, and reigns supreme. Therefore, Heaven is coming to earth, and the new refurbished earth for eternity.

John 14:2-3 (KJV) In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. ³ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

As the 2^nd Temple period Jewish wedding custom exactly mirrors the process of the Rapture, an addition is being built to the Father’s house for the bride, and Groom, coming to earth. When a son got married, it was common for him to build a dwelling place on his father’s property, with each new building enlarging the family. This addition to the Father’s house is the New Jerusalem, I do believe. I suspect we will see heaven possibly for seven years, from the Rapture, until we follow Christ back to earth at His second coming.

Revelation 3:21 (KJV) To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

I interpret this to mean, Jesus is speaking of His relationship to His Father, and sharing His throne.

4 hours ago, BibleStudent100 said:

Thank you for sharing these experiences.  It seems like we need to be more self-dependent rather than relying on the government.  With weather going more to the extreme levels, we ought to plan more for "uncooperative" weather events. 

I agree. Short of documenting historical records and statistics for natural disasters and nature revolting, linearly coming on like birth pains, with some highs and lulls (divers places). It is undeniable that the media is emphatically proclaiming and using accurate terminology, such as 'never seen,' 'unprecedented,' 'historical,' 'once in a lifetime,' and 'a 500-year event,' etc.

Scripture is jumping off the pages of the Bible today, and I could bore you to tears citing examples; it cannot be overlooked. I truly believe time is short.

Even the biblical River Euphrates, as predicted, is at historical low levels and drying up. In places, the residents now call it the Euphrates Creek. Many historical sites and biblical relics are being discovered.

4 hours ago, BibleStudent100 said:

Fascinating response with a lot to ponder!   Do you think that the great watery canopy that was the storage for all the water that fell during the Flood could have prevented some of the harmful UV rays from the celestial realm from hitting the earth, which could have caused the longevity of humans before the Flood?  In other words, right after the Flood, the length of human life instantly dropped to the "standard" length of 70-80 years in accord with Ps 90:10

 

Good morning,

This subject has always fascinated me, and I have devoted a great deal of study to it.

First, a little disclaimer. Like everyone else, I form my beliefs based on the inerrant, infallible word of God first and foremost and my interpretation thereof. We all do not interpret scripture the same, and I never claim my view is the correct one.

The modern Western mind does not think or believe in the same way as the ancient Eastern mind. With Israel as ground zero, is it a coincidence writing is from left to right to Israel's west and right to left east of there, as one of many examples?

However, it is reasonable to deduce that the Earth had a protective canopy of some sort, which filtered out the harmful light band. Today, we know the detrimental effects of UV light and radiation, harming our DNA and causing cancer and other health effects sooner rather than later. I speculate it was a canopy of ice encompassing the entire planet.

The Lord drastically reduced human longevity from centuries to a maximum of 120 years (Genesis 6:3 (KJV) And the LORD said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years.)  by these means. I think the latest revision of human longevity is: Psalm 90:10 (KJV) The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. (70-80 years).

Examining the attached longevity chart below, God did not immediately reduce longevity to a maximum of 120 years but instead did so sequentially through generations.

At one time, our planet had to be close to a uniform temperature. All the flora and trees discovered under the ice caps at the North Pole and Antarctica bear witness to this, along with the mammoth fossil record of flora and fauna. An old, detailed, extremely geographically accurate, and precise map was discovered of an ice-free Antarctica. The only possible way a cartographer could do it is if the coasts and land were ice-free.

Another question related to the Great Deluge is how and why the poles accumulated so much ice, miles thick in places, and what caused the ice age. It is another interesting study, too lengthy to delve into in this post.

I reason that there were no earthquakes before Noah's flood, and the mountains were molehills compared to today, now having tectonic activity resulting from the Earth's crust fracturing and releasing the aquifers under pressure from the deep. From that, and the Genesis account of God making dry land, the Earth's surface is now ¾ water.

As the Bible states, the Earth was watered by a mist. God caused the crystalline ice canopy to turn into water. Rain was never seen before this event, resulting in rain for forty days and nights. I suspect most of the deluge was the result of the Earth's mantle breaking up. With the aid of modern technology, including ground penetrating radar (GPR) and sonar, these cracks in the Earth's mantle are now documented and mapped.

For fossilization to occur, it must happen rapidly, not taking a long time. There are many examples of recent fossilization, the process, and the short time it takes. There are at least two schools of thought regarding the fossil record: the old earth theory, which posits a previous creation destroyed by judgment, and the Noah's Flood account.

My view is that Noah's flood is responsible for the fossil record. The record shows flora and fauna of mammoth size, including dinosaurs, dragonflies with three-foot wing spans, pterosaurs, and more.

Insects have exoskeletons that they breathe through. The atmospheric oxygen content and atmospheric pressure limit their size, and reptiles continue to grow throughout their entire lives. It seems reasonable to surmise that before Earth's breakup, the atmospheric conditions were much different than today, possibly related to the breakup of the theorized protective canopy. Here is something to ponder and chew on:

Was the stature of humans proportional to their environment? Imagine swatting off mosquitos the size of baseballs, ticks sucking ounces of blood, a biting horsefly the size of a cantaloupe, etc.

I cannot prove it, but I surmise humanity had to be larger in stature than after the deluge. If that thought is actual, then it gives another perspective for:

Genesis 6:4 (KJV) There were giants in the Earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bare children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown.

What are your thoughts and views?

 

3 hours ago, BibleStudent100 said:

Hi Dennis, you are spot on regarding WHY the ancients decided to put in the incredible amount of work required to build the ziggurat:  "They now said: “Come! Let us build a city for ourselves and a tower with its top in the heavens, and let us make a celebrated name for ourselves, so that we will not be scattered over the entire face of the earth.” (Genesis 11:4).  The phrase "let us make a celebrated name for ourselves" is vague and it is possible that the descendants of Noah had heard the impressive stories of the strength and pride and self-assuredness of the fallen angels (the nephilim) and maybe they were making a tower to harken back to those days or to appease those "gods" with some thought of bringing back the "glory" days of strength and wickedness.  

To mount such a massive feat would have required incredible human strength and organization and motivation for Nimrod's followers and they all would have had to have some "buy in," as in what is in it for me?  Again, the motivation could have been, "let's create another society with super-human creatures and maybe we could be like them."

On a side note, have you all thought about this idea:  The fame and dread of the Nephilim could have given rise to many mythologies of heathen people (e.g. Greek mythology) who, after the confusion of languages at Babel, were scattered throughout the earth. 

Howdy!

Opinion – My World View

We are on the same sheet of music, so to speak.

Luke 17:26 (KJV) And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man.

To be brief, I think the implication of the verse above goes beyond the traditional view. Why did Jesus have to go many centuries back to cite His example? There was something unique that must have transpired (i.e., Gen. 3:15, Gen.6:1-4, DNA, genetic makeup).

If my exegetical view and many others are correct, compare our day with the days of Noah's generations, plural. I maintain Noah was perfect in the sense his genome was generationally uncontaminated. Today, we have DNA tinkering and splicing to alter human and animal biology; what is the prime ulterior motive to cross the "kind" barrier God established?

I suspect the primary Modus Operandi is greed, war, and global control. Think about the ramifications of soldiers with the eyes of an eagle, hearing like an owl, stamina of a wolf, strength of a bear, superior endurance, needing less food and sleep. Can a country survive an onslaught of this kind of technology without keeping up? Crispr-cas9 tinkering kits are available to any mad scientist or wan-a-be Dr. Jekyll.

The official announcements made for super-soldiers and a space force do not involve skeletal suits like those seen in Iron Man, as Wikipedia and others suggest. If anyone believes that, I am proud to announce I am selling the Washington phallus.

It is too lengthy to discuss, but how did Nazi Germany suddenly advance 50 years in technology seemingly overnight? I mentioned the LHC, where it is geographically located, and the pretense of what they are trying to accomplish in the hope of discovering the God particle.

Again, too lengthy to delve into: based on the biblical narrative and Hebrew word meanings, I suspect Nimrod "became" a Nephilim. There is an interesting story that I cannot prove or disprove, and it may be made up; however, what I have read comes from credible sources.

It is alleged that during the Gulf War, Nimrod's tomb was discovered, and the body was still entombed there. A special American secretive operation was conducted, and Nimrod's body was quickly whisked away and taken somewhere; if true, why.

To paraphrase Sen. John Kennedy and others, if it is a conspiracy theory, it is likely true. I am amazed at what has been discovered during these congressional inquiries, investigations, and testimonies. The coverups, lies, false information, and deceptions, everything from COVID-19 to UFOs (UAPs), now suddenly pose a national security risk and aviation hazard. The ongoing investigations, testimony, changes in reporting, engaging, policies, and procedures. I believe this is the first rung of disclosure and has everything to do with Matthew 24 and the deceptions Jesus warns about four times for emphasis.

Notice the arrogance and stupidity of the criteria and sources outlined below; they are investigating. The spiritual and dimensional are blatantly and obviously omitted.

Prelimary-Assessment-UAP-20210625.pdf

For those who believe in the government, I am also selling the White House and renting out the Lincoln bedroom.

Adjective: extraterrestrial.

1. Originating or located or occurring outside Earth or its atmosphere

Noun: extraterrestrial

1. A form of life assumed to exist outside the Earth or its atmosphere. [WordWeb.info]

A person can get a Ph.D. in astrobiology; what have they found, and what are they studying?

Does anyone remember the panic in New York City on October 30, 1938, with Orson Welles's radio broadcast of "War of the Worlds?" Today, ho-hum, nothing to see here, citizen, move on. We have been radically conditioned through decades of exposure to superheroes and demi-gods (comic books, radio broadcasts, TV movies, documentaries, and programs, as well as SETI, etc.).

Our Bibles, pseudepigrapha, ancient texts, Jewish texts, ancient cultures, and ancient engraved stones have a lot to say about what we refer to as UFOs. What better explanation for the sudden disappearance of millions of people off the planet?  

 

14 hours ago, Marilyn C said:

Morning Dennis,

Interesting thoughts there. You did have a run. As to `make a name,` I would say that means `renown.`  Dubai is renown for having the tallest building in the world.

Your question, `What if Israel had accepted Jesus as their Messiah? Well, we would be under Jewish rule now. Just as well God is omniscient and knows all things so His plans work according to His appointed times. God knew Israel would reject Him but still He offered Himself to them.

And even throughout the time of `Acts` Israel could have turned to the Lord Jesus, but we see at the end of Acts many of the rulers in Israel even rejected the Holy Spirit. Thus, the nation sealed their time for nearly 2,000 years of dispersion. 

 

The Nations - you say God created them at the tower of Babel. Actually, God just dispersed them.(Gen. 11: 7 - 9) In Adam & Eve were all the genetics of variation we have today. God is a God of variations. 

You said `God disinherited the nations.` (Deut. 32) Remember that God is omniscient, (all knowing) and man`s disobedience isn`t going to stop God`s purpose for the Nations being fulfilled. God says -

`Rejoice O Gentiles, with His people.....` (Deut. 32: 41)

God`s purpose for mankind in the nations - `Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth...` (Gen. 1: 28) And we see those nations of the saved on the new earth. (Rev. 21: 24) (Note: these are not the Body of Christ who are called out of the nations.)

Interesting question to you Dennis. What will God do when man `fills the earth?

I say God created the "nations" in the sense of birds of a feather flocking together, as in the same language grouping and migrating-dispersing together, eventually forming nations and borders. These groups took their idols, false deities, and beliefs with them.

I am not precisely sure what you are asking, but I will take a guess, filled with people.

God's command to "fill the earth" in Genesis 1:28 is primarily understood as a blessing for humanity to populate the world through reproduction. This directive was given to both Adam and Eve, and later to Noah and his family after the flood. In Genesis 6, when mankind filled the earth with violence instead of God's rule, God responded with judgment through the flood. God's ultimate plan involves fulfilling His original creation intentions through a righteous humanity, which is achieved through Jesus Christ.

Related to this, I have pondered other thoughts, namely confinement, location, and dwelling. We were created out of the earth, on the earth, and for the earth. With the biblical narrative, I infer that planet Earth will be our eternal home. Still, many other planets could be inhabited out there, not to mention the dimensions that the spiritual realm encompasses. In the end, all things will be made anew.

John 14:2 (KJV) In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

MANSION ~ ②         a place in which one stays, dwelling(-place), room, abode^[1]

Revelation 3:12 (KJV) 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. Revelation 21:2 (KJV) And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

I have long assumed the holy city, the New Jerusalem, will be our eternal home and abode. The statement "prepared as a bride adorned for her husband" certainly sounds like this is the NT Church of Christ only. God's chosen people as a nation will be given a large chunk of land for their own, with the borders outlined in Gen. 15:18 and Numbers 34:1-5. I assume that will be their dwelling place.

I suspect most of us are curious and wonder what our eternal abode will be like. We know it will be beautiful beyond description. The KJV describes our eternal abode as a mansion. In my mind, when I picture a mansion, I think of dozens of spacious and luxurious rooms where the wealthy and elite dwell.

One day, with nothing better to do and too much time on my hands, I thought I would do a rough calculation of the size and volume of the possible size of my mansion (room). It somewhat follows the Drake Equation if you are familiar with it, inserting unknowns.

I calculated the volume of the New Jerusalem to be 1,500 x 1,500 x 1,500 miles. Scientific guesses of how many people ever lived (108 billion people). Wide is the way, and narrow is the gate of 10% of people with saving faith and some other considerations.

My Drake-Dennis calculation came out to the size of a large master bedroom. Yeah, I know; I lost a few marbles along the way, and over the years, that is why I maintain a good supply of Reynolds Wrap hats to wear behind the keyboard. 😊

7 hours ago, Marilyn C said:

So, what do you think (from God`s word if you can) was God`s Purpose in making -

1. The Nations.

2. Israel.

3. The Body of Christ.

 

If you can only comment on one group, that is fine.

This is not a comment, it is a doctrinal dissertation, LOL. Of course, my thoughts are open to biblical exegesis, and one shoe does not fit all. Our biblical worldview centers on the three questions. Many Rabbis and Jewish scholars attest that the reason the world is as evil as it is is the culmination of three events: Adam's original sin, Genesis 6:1-4, and the Tower of Babel.

God created the nations (Gen. 10) at Babel as a response to human rebellion led by Nimrod. It is interesting and noteworthy how Nimrod became (gibbōr). adj. strong, mighty; n. masc. warrior, mighty man.^[1]

After the flood, humanity was commanded to spread across the earth, but instead, they congregated to build a city and a tower (known as a ziggurat) to make a name for themselves (what sort of name?). The dozens of ancient global megaliths that cannot be duplicated today might be associated with this rebellion, and worshipping false gods. Was it intelligence, technology, or superhuman that built the megaliths, pre- or post-flood?

This act was a defiance against God's will. In response, God confused their languages, forcing them to scatter across the world as He had originally intended. In effect, God disinherited the nations (Deut. 32).

God then allotted these newly formed nations to members of His divine council, referred to as "sons of God" (bēn ʾĕlōhîm, who were supernatural, but they corrupted themselves). This divine allocation is an explanation for why different nations came to worship other gods, demigods, and Titans. However, this was not God's original plan but rather a judgment. God later initiated a plan to bring the nations back into His family, starting with His covenant with Abraham. God chose a people set apart from the nations to be His own through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Every ancient culture retained and recorded a global flood story, as well as stories about demigod-Titans. History is littered with the recordings and traditions, Epic of Gilgamesh, I Enoch, Herodotus, Josephus, etc.

But wait, there is more. Are we to assume these people were as dumb as rocks, trying to build a ziggurat (skyscraper) to reach heaven on the flat plains of Shinar (a biblical high place)? No, they were trying to establish communication and favor related to the demi-gods of old: Genesis 6:4 (KJV) There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bare children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown.

I find CERN and the Large Hadron Collider interesting, particularly in their search for the "God particle" and the statement made by a former director. To paraphrase, perhaps we can send or receive a message to another dimension. There is an occult statue of Shiva, the Destroyer, in front of CERN Headquarters, featuring occult symbolism and video footage of occult rituals performed there.

The geographic location selected for the LHC is perplexing. This location sits atop the French-Swiss border and is historically steeped in the occult. If it looks like a duck, waddles like a duck, and quacks like a duck.

Do the devils have seed? Genesis 3:15 (KJV) And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.

Let me propose a question for you regarding your question number three, which relates to the church and being grafted in. What if Israel had accepted Jesus as their Messiah?

Interesting thoughts and conversation, eh?

The Boy Scout Oath, or Promise, reflects a commitment to biblical principles and values. Sixty years on, I can still quote most of them. I want to talk about the Boy Scout Motto: Be prepared. I believe we have the God given right to defend ourselves, our families, and those not capable of defending themselves. I believe it is wise and prudent to be semi-prepared for unseen circumstances before it is too late.

The severe thunderstorm and tornado season (2025) has been especially devastating for many in Tornado Ally and Dixi Ally. Not to mention a year later western North Carolina, eastern Tennessee and other areas are still reeling from Hurricane Helene.

From experience (2009) and what I learned, the government cannot and will not cater to your needs and well-being; that is a personal responsibility. What you have and prepared for is all you have.

From personal experience, when the power grid goes down for an extended period, for whatever reason, life as we know it drastically changes, becomes uncomfortable, and can become dangerous and deadly. A little preplanning and thought go a long way in alleviating much of the pain and suffering, and the opportunity to share with those in need is enhanced by slipping a Bible Salvation Tract into the ice and commodities.

Examining historical records, flooding, wildfires, mudslides, hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms are being described as historic, unprecedented, never-before-seen, once-in-a-lifetime events, or even 500-year occurrences. In other words, disasters are picking up in frequency and intensity, birth pains sound familiar, not to mention potential terrorism.

The Mississippi-New Madrid fault zone now has geologists very concerned with what is happening (fracturing beneath the bed). Not to mention their escalating concern about the changes in the Yellowstone Park caldera. It is not if, but when.

We do not realize how soft we have become until the electrons stop flowing into our homes, businesses, and infrastructure. In the small village where I lived before retirement, the water continued to flow, but we had a boil alert (we were all on electricity). It was cold showers every day for a couple of weeks, and July temperatures of 95-100 degrees. If that was not inconvenient enough, the sewer lift pumps lacked emergency backup power. Toilets and drains were exploding into homes, spewing sewage everywhere.

After enough trees and debris were removed from the roads to allow for venturing out, the local Quick Trips and gas stations eventually obtained backup generators and reopened. All of them were a madhouse, cars lined up for blocks, cash only, fights breaking out. The ice deliveryman was sold out from the delivery truck.

Now living in the boondocks, I have a well and septic system, so I don't worry about the sewer system exploding. However, without electricity, there is no well water. We don't realize how much water we use until it's gone.

Unrelated to water usage, and due to my wife’s disability, I installed two handicap toilets that happen to use only one gallon of water per flush, instead of the standard four gallons. That turns out to be a blessing.

I guess the point of my rant is that the more stocked up on the essentials of life as we are accustomed to, the less miserable our families will be when unfavorable circumstances arrive. Plus, the blessing of forethought, probably being able to help your church family and neighbors.

From the Book of Dennis, 2 Opinions: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. 😊

Well stated, and since biblical numbers are part of the thread, I’d like to piggyback on the theme. Numbers are another proof that our Bible is divinely inspired. As I progressed in my biblical studies, it took me a while to realize the symbology and significance of biblical numbers beyond their numerical value and Hebrew-Greek name meanings.

The most significant numbers appear to be one, three, seven (600 times), ten, and twelve.

Numbers in the Bible often carry symbolic significance beyond their literal value. The number seven, appearing approximately 600 times in Scripture, is particularly important and is often associated with completeness or totality[1][2]. Other numbers with symbolic meanings include three (completeness or divine fullness), four (completeness in relation to range or extent), ten (often used as a round number of indefinite magnitude), and twelve (associated with the people of God)[2][3]. These numbers appear in various contexts throughout the Bible, such as in the Book of Revelation, which frequently uses the number seven[2]. Some numbers are used in graded or climactic series, as seen in various Old Testament passages[1]. While some biblical numbers are precise, others are symbolic or hyperbolic, such as the "thousand thousands" mentioned in Daniel's dream[1]. It's important to note that the interpretation of numbers in the Bible, especially in genealogies and chronologies, requires careful consideration of ancient Near Eastern practices and the primary function of such lists in establishing identity rather than precise chronology[4].

ONE: Unity, Trinity, One man’s sin, one Man’s sacrifice.

TWO: Union, Division, and Witnessing.

THREE: Resurrection; Divine Completeness, perfection, Trinity. (1 John 5:7)

FOUR: Creation, World.

FIVE: Grace, or God’s goodness.

SIX: Weakness of man, number of man; evils of Satan, manifestation of sin.

SEVEN: Completeness, Spiritual, Perfection.

EIGHT: New birth, New Creation, or new beginning.

NINE: Fruit of the Spirit, Divine completeness from the Lord.

TEN: Testimony, Law and Responsibility.

ELEVEN: Judgment or Disorder.

TWELVE: Governmental perfection.

THIRTEEN: Depravity and Rebellion.

FOURTEEN: Deliverance or Salvation.

FIFTEEN: Rest.

SIXTEEN: Love.

SEVENTEEN: Victory.

EIGHTEEN: Bondage.

NINETEEN: Faith.

TWENTY: Redemption.

TWENTY-ONE: Exceeding Sinfulness of Sin.

TWENTY-TWO: Light.

TWENTY-THREE: Death.

TWENTY-FOUR: The Priesthood.

TWENTY-FIVE: The forgiveness of sin.

TWENTY-SIX: The Gospel of Christ.

TWENTY-SEVEN: Preaching of the Gospel.

TWENTY-EIGHT: Eternal life.

TWENTY-NINE: Departure.

THIRTY: The Blood of Christ, dedications, mourning.

THIRTY-ONE: Offspring.

THIRTY-TWO: Covenant.

THIRTY-THREE: Promise.

THIRTY-FOUR: Naming of a son.

THIRTY-FIVE: Hope.

THIRTY-SIX: Enemy.

THIRTY-SEVEN: The Word of God.

THIRTY-EIGHT: Slavery.

THIRTY-NINE: Disease.

FORTY: Trials; Probation, Testings.

FORTY-TWO: Israel’s oppression, Lord’s advent.

FORTY-FIVE: Preservation.

FIFTY: The Holy Spirit.

SIXTY: Pride.

SIXTY-SIX: Idol worship.

SEVENTY: Universality, Israel, and her Restoration.

ONE HUNDRED: God’s election of Grace, Children of Promise.

ONE HUNDRED-NINETEEN: The Resurrection Day, Lord’s Day.

ONE HUNDRED-TWENTY: Divine period of probation.

ONE HUNDRED-FORTY-FOUR: The Spirit guided life.

ONE HUNDRED-FIFTY-THREE: Fruit bearing:

The mention of 153 fish in John 21:11 has sparked numerous interpretations and speculations. This detail is part of a post-resurrection appearance of Jesus to his disciples, where he miraculously provides them with an abundant catch after a night of unsuccessful fishing[1][2][3]. While some view the number as simply a precise count to lend authenticity to the account[1], others see deeper symbolism. Various allegorical explanations have been proposed, often involving gematria (deriving meaning from numerical values of letters) or references to ancient beliefs about fish species[1][2]. One interpretation suggests the number represents the universality of the church's mission, symbolizing all nations or types of people to be "caught" by the disciples as "fishers of men"[1][2][4]. However, there is no consensus on the exact symbolism, if any was intended[2][5]. Regardless of its specific meaning, the miraculous catch of 153 fish is generally understood to emphasize Jesus' power over nature and provide further evidence to the disciples of his extraordinary nature and resurrection[3].

TWO HUNDRED: Insufficiency.

SIX HUNDRED: Warfare.

SIX HUNDRED-SIXTY-SIX: The number of the Beast, Antichrist.

EIGHT HUNDRED-EIGHTY-EIGHT: The first Resurrection Saints.

THOUSAND: Divine completeness and Glory of God.¹

¹ Biblical Mathematics, How to Count the Bible, Ed. F. Vallowe

 

Matthew 25:13 (KJV) Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

So that we do not miss this, Mark and Luke also record Jesus’s words. Watch, therefore, is a command: what are we to watch for? I propose prophecy coming about, and the signs of the times outlined in 2 Tim. 3:1-7, Eze. 38-39, Isa. 17, Jer. 49, and elsewhere.

For the end times to occur, there had to be a nation of Israel to be reestablished again in a single day (May 14, 1948). There has to be a way and means to livestream the death and resurrection of the Two Witnesses globally in real-time, allowing all to witness the event and send presents quickly to anyone on the planet.

These and many other implications are not coming; they are here.

Hebrews 10:25 (KJV) Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

In short, if Christians know their Bible, do not grow weary and leave the faith church, and are paying attention, they will see the day fast approaching. I see “the Day” rapidly approaching. We should be doubling down, spreading, and sharing the Good News like never before, while we still have the opportunity.

It goes without saying that those “left behind” will go through the worst time ever in human history, or ever will be, hell on earth.

 

2 hours ago, kwikphilly said:

Brother I still send checks in the mail- have one card for online purchases,single account,not in my name- deposit cash for purchase

I do NOTHING online except WCF and my animal site- that's it. If a store does not take cash then I don't shop there-Any service I have has a wrong phone number and no email available,except my cell phone and it's not my actual sir name..... Even Dr's offices do not have my actual phone number or email address..... too bad,I refuse to share it

I'm probably the only person you know hardly ever  gets spam or junk mail,lol

I thought about what you've posted from day one and do the best I can do not to share my info though I'm sure some of it is somewhere on the dark web- every single store card I possess has a fictitious phone number on it & no email address

You know if I'm still alive here on earth when we can't buy or sell  I'll probably have already been used to it if we go cashless,lol ❤️❤️❤️

The global alignments, alliances, treaties, technology, and the human heart has rapidly aligned with prophetic scripture, so fast, no one can keep up with the significance of these alignments (i.e. Dan. 12:4, Ezek. 38-39, 2 Tim. 3:1-6, Isa. 17, Jer. 39, etc.).  

Our generation is the first time in history that all biblical prophecy has come together, and I believe May 14, 1948, was the day God’s hourglass was turned over. There has to be a nation of Israel for the Book of Revelation and prophecy to be fulfilled.

Matthew 24:33 (KJV) So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.

All these things Jesus brought to our attention have come to pass or are rapidly escalating. Jesus mentioned deception four times to grab our attention. Everywhere we look, there is deception, lies, and cover-ups. [Major media, government(s), churches, blood sucking poly-ticks, pharmacy.]

I do not know how much the Lord will allow me to witness, but if my physical tent wears out, He calls me home, or it be the Rapture, either way, I will be meeting Jesus face-to-face very soon. Oh, what a glorious day that will be. Someone ought to pen a hymn on that subject. 😊

35 minutes ago, kwikphilly said:

Do you like using a tablet for WCF? My computer has been broken for months & using the phone is driving me nuts

At my age, I recall my first computer, manufactured centuries before DOS by the Antikythera Company, which broke and was outdated, lacking technical support, warranty repairs, and upgrades. So, I upgraded and opted for a modern Chinese string and bead computer. In my day, climate change and going green were not an issue, so plop goes the computer, LOL. I hope you get another one soon Kwik.

 

Benifits - Convienance - Snares

If I am an example, you all are experiencing it. Everything from my life insurance to my banking has transitioned to paperless services for your convenience, allowing us to serve you better. To check any records, obtain monthly statements and transactions, update or change something, etc., consider the difficulty of not having a smart computer and/or a smartphone.

It is now undeniable that the world is transitioning to a cashless system, requiring innovative electronics and connections to participate in society and thrive. How hard will it be to turn someone off for not complying with their continuing changes of terms of service (TOS), whereas you are no longer a valued customer but subservient to them and the system?

It no longer requires a vivid imagination or a conspiracy theory to see how the beast system is developing and implemented. Knowledge and technology are no longer developing linearly over centuries, but now in just weeks.

RFID chips containing all personal information, the size of a grain of rice, and GPS tracking, smartphones downsized and worn as wristwatches. How much longer before that smartwatch (for your convenience) is downsized to a grain of rice and implanted?

Today, many crimes are being solved through the use of smartphones and DNA evidence. Law enforcement and the government maintain and collect DNA databases. Join the military, send Ancestry.com your DNA, get arrested, and they have your biological marker. Unless the power source is removed, you are automatically being tracked by your smartphone and recorded; that’s a fact, Jack.

The old technology of debit and credit cards being chipped will soon become obsolete. No more USB ports, forgetting, breaking, charging, or stealing a smartphone/wristwatch. It will conveniently stay charged by either of the two most sensitive and convertible temperature changes (delta T) of the body, such as the forehead or the back of the hand. By-pass the self-checkout scanners and walk out the door. You and your items will be scanned, and your personal identification account will be debited or credited. Does this still sound like a fairy tale, conspiracy theory, or someone wearing a Reynold’s Wrap pointed hat?

I will omit the capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) as we speak, much less the near future capabilities and adaptations. It is now a national concern and priority between our current government administration and hostile countries.

Are we witnessing the prelude to the beast system? I contend, no doubt. If you think your assistants (Siri, Alexa, Gemini, Co-Pilot, Cortana, etc.) are not constantly listening in, think again. We have many experiences and tests that go beyond suspicion.