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Marv Rosenthal – A Servant of God

January 19, 2022 / stevenj777

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #236 ~

Just recently, Marvin Rosenthal, a servant of God, and my friend, went to heaven to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Marv served the Lord for over 60 years. For the first part of that time, Marv was pastoring churches. Then he began leading ministries that proclaimed the gospel, especially to the Jewish people, and that taught about our hope, the glorious future God has in store for every Christian. There’s no doubt that Marv, by the grace of God, affected and impacted countless numbers of people all over the world, and I was one of them. Let me tell you what happened.

In the summer of 1993, a friend gave me a book written by Marv Rosenthal, the Pre-Wrath Rapture of the Church. I had always been interested in Biblical prophecy, and so I read it with great interest – and it made sense, particularly Marv’s view on Christ’s coming and the rapture, which I now know is God’s view. What struck me and my wife the most was the first chapter, which showed Marv’s love for the truth, and his willingness and courage to teach it no matter the cost.

In the summer of 1994, my wife Marsha and I heard that Marv was doing a three-day prophecy conference at Sandy Cove, Maryland, not far from where we lived. We were excited to go and hear him speak, and his subject just happened to be the book of Revelation. Marv never made it through all 22 chapters, but I tell you, I was not disappointed. I loved his teaching, and his history lessons and stories, and that he patiently answered all my questions. In October of 1995, we were thrilled to be able to go back to Sandy Cove and again hear Marv teach on prophecy – and we learned so much.

My wife and I were so thankful that God wanted us to cross paths with Marv. And it was obvious that God had given us a love for Bible prophecy, and that he was using Marv to help us learn key truths about Christ’s coming, and the rapture of the church. Then we started receiving Zion’s Fire, the magazine Marv and His staff put together. It contained important information about end-times’ prophecy as well as truths about the gospel of Christ and the glory of God, along with encouraging stories about their mission work in Jerusalem.

Thanks to God, and to Marv’s example, I was extremely motivated to study Bible prophecy. Much of my free time in the mid to late 1990’s was spent carefully going over Daniel, Matt. 24, Luke 21, 1-2 Thess., and Revelation – I was learning about the end of the age, the 70 weeks of Daniel, great tribulation, the rapture, the Day of the Lord, and the Antichrist. I was growing in my understanding of our God-planned, God-prophesied future, and even taught a weekly Bible study at my church – and it was on the book of Revelation.

One of the biggest highlights of my life was when Marsha and I went on a Zion’s Hope sponsored tour of Israel in the spring of 1998, one led by Marv and his son David. What a phenomenal time, seeing and walking where Jesus lived, taught, and performed miracles. Of course, Marv was the main speaker, and a great speaker and teacher he was, helping us understand the Biblical significance of the places we visited. Then there was that time when we were sitting together with Marv and David on the roof top of our hotel in Petra, Jordan – we will never forget the specialness of that time.

In 1989, Marv, his wife Marbeth, and David moved to Orlando, Florida where they set up their ministry, Zion’s Hope. Lo and behold, ten years later I was transferred to a church in nearby Tampa. How wise and good of God, for now we saw Marv more often, went to the Holy Land Experience, and attended prophecy conferences. Not only that, but the new church I was helping pastor (Hope Bible Church), began supporting their mission work in Israel. What a blessing that we could support a church located in Jerusalem that was reaching out to Jewish people.

Since Marv lived so close to Tampa, we started having him come to our church to teach an annual prophecy conference, which went on for nearly ten years. Our little church loved Marv and hearing him teach on prophecy. One thing Marsha and I looked forward to was going out to eat and having fellowship with Marv and Marbeth the night before the conference began. Marv was so loving and kind, for he would always ask how we, our children, and our small church were doing. He genuinely cared about us, which meant a lot to us. We also talked about what was happening in the world as it related to prophecy – Marv had so much insight and discernment, and we were thankful that we knew him personally, and could learn from him.

At a couple of those Sunday morning sessions at our church, he talked about being a servant of God, and truly, that was not just how he thought of himself, but how he lived his life. Over the years, I have witnessed it myself. Ever since he was saved, he has sacrificially served the Lord, used his talents and time to advance the cause of Christ, proclaimed the truths of Christ’s 1^st coming and 2^nd coming, gave glory to God, and helped men like myself.

More than anyone else, Marv motivated me to serve the Lord by teaching on prophecy. About 12 years ago, I started a prophecy Bible study at our church – it was on the first Wednesday of every month, and it continues on today. I was glad to be in a position where I could keep studying prophecy and keep teaching it – it was good for me, and I am sure for all the people who have come to it over the years. And it was exactly five years ago, January of 2017, that I began this blog site, ChristsKingdom.org. Like Marv, my desire is for people to know what the Bible says about Christ’s coming and His kingdom on earth. I am absolutely convinced that we are living in the end-times, and I want people to be excited about living for God in these last years before Christ’s return and the rapture of the church.

I am very thankful that God wanted me to meet Marv so I could learn from him, have him as a mentor, be encouraged by him, and know him as a friend, and as a fellow servant of God! What an immense blessing he has been to me – what a precious gift from God! And yes, it wasn’t Marv alone, but God working through Marv, for he saw himself as a weak and humble vessel, and yet one who was filled, empowered, and led by the Holy Spirit.

Just last week, it was time for Marv’s departure from this earth, for the days God had ordained for him came to an end (31,497 days). His work was finished, and so he went home to be with His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. How happy and excited Marv must have been to suddenly leave this earth and immediately be in heaven. “How precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His godly ones” (Ps. 116:15). I am sure Jesus was glad to meet Marv, and upon his arrival, tell him, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your Master.” Matthew 25:23

Just think, on January 8^th, 2022, the truth of Heb. 12:22-24 became a life-changing reality for Marv – “You have come to Mount Zion and the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels, to the general assembly and church of the first born who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the Judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” It is so encouraging to know that Marv is literally in heaven, with Jesus who loves him so, so much, with all those angels, and with all the saints who have gone on before him.

Marv is undoubtedly filled with love, joy, and peace, and the satisfaction of knowing that he lived a meaningful and God-glorifying life, that he fought the good fight, finished the course, and kept the faith (2 Tim. 4:7). “To live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:21). And it won’t be long before we will all be in heaven with Jesus, Marv, and all the saints. Those great rapture verses tell us what will happen – “The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore, comfort one another with these words” (1 Thess. 4:16-18). “Give praise to our God, all you His bond-servants, you who fear Him, the small and the great.”… “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty reigns.” Revelation 19:5-6

P.S. I would encourage you to check out Zion’s Hope, the ministry Marv began – you will find it most instructive and encouraging. Let me also mention three articles I have written that focus on our hope, our wonderful and glorious future – “You Have to Have Hope”, “Being in Heaven with Jesus, and the Believers, and in a New Glorified Body” and “Why Do Believers Die?”

Ephesians 1 – A Big-Picture Prophecy Passage

January 14, 2022 / stevenj777

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #235 ~

You would never think Ephesians 1 is about prophecy, but it is. In fact, it’s one of the best and most important big-picture prophecy passages in the Bible, going from eternity past to eternity future. It says you will be forever blessed (vs. 3), that you will always be in God’s presence (vs. 4), that all things will be summed up in Christ (vs. 10), that you will receive an inheritance (vs. 11), that you will be glorified (vs. 15), and that Christ has all authority in this age and the next (vs. 21). God wants you to have hope, to be looking forward to “the surpassing riches of His (God’s) grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus” (Eph. 2:7). Your short life on this earth is only the very beginning of a magnificent eternal life. Let’s look more closely at Eph. 1, and as you do, I’m convinced you will be more hopeful and excited about the life God has planned out for you.

Ephesians 1:3. As a heavenly citizen, you have a heavenly Father who has and will continue to lavish you with indescribable blessings (1 Cor. 2:9). These spiritually based blessings affect every aspect of your present and future life, and result in you gladly and greatly blessing your Father.

Ephesians 1:4-8. In eternity past, God chose to make you perfectly holy so He could adopt you as His child, and so you could continually and always be in His sight, in His presence. Everything about your life on earth and in heaven was predestined, precisely and perfectly planned out by God. By the will of God, the grace of God, the wisdom of God, and for the glory of God, and through the work of Jesus Christ you were redeemed, and forgiven of all your sins. God sent Jesus, His only begotten Son, to this world because He deeply loved you, and because He was determined to show you His love by blessing you on earth and in heaven, now and forever.

Ephesians 1:9-12. Your life on this earth is an infinitesimally small fraction of the glorious future God has for you. Not long from now, at the end of this age and in the fulness of the times, Christ will return to earth to rapture the church, punish the sinners, save a number of Jews, and begin His reign over this world. At that time, all things will be summed up in Christ, for He will be King over all the earth. “God is the King of all the earth… God reigns over the nations.” Psalm 47:7-8

God predestined that you be justified, and that you receive eternal life, a special relationship with Him and His Son that lasts forever. He also predestined that you receive an inheritance, an extremely satisfying eternity of serving Him, and the most incredible spiritual, relational, and physical blessings you could ever imagine. “In your presence is fulness of joy; in your right hand there are pleasures forever” (Ps. 16:11). At the coming of Christ, which occurs in the fullness of the times, you will “obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled” (1 Pet. 1:4), and begin to experience what God planned out for you in eternity past.

Be assured that God “works all things after the counsel of His will.” God, by His power, wisdom, sovereignty, and in accordance with His eternal purpose, is working out all the details, every single aspect of your life. Not leaving anything to chance, He will make sure that you receive all that He has promised and planned out for you, that you will be spiritually, wonderfully, and eternally blessed. This results in “the praise of His glory”, in you eternally glorifying God.

Eph. 1:13-14. God continues to share His plans about the future, specifically as it relates to you. He says that if you have believed in Christ to save you from sin and death, if you have been born again, then you have been sealed with the Holy Spirit. God did this, not just to establish and ensure His ownership of you, but to assure you that His plans for you will be fully carried out, that you will be physically redeemed, be delivered from your earthly body and glorified (1 Cor. 15:40-42), and that you will be given an eternal inheritance. The Spirit dwelling in you is a pledge, a guarantee from God that you will be completely saved, that you will receive your brand-new body at Christ’s coming, and that you will be a richly rewarded child of God.

Ephesians 1:15-19. As a Christian, you have been justified and you will be glorified. But at this time, you are being sanctified, and are to be spiritually growing and fulfilling God’s purpose for your life on this earth. Knowing this, Paul prays for three specific things, our relationship with God, and not surprisingly, our hope, and finally, the power we need to live the Christian life.

These three things are vitally important, and so pray this for yourself and others. Pray that you grow in your knowledge of Jesus, that you have a close relationship with Him. Pray that you have hope, that you understand and are excited about the glorious future God has planned out for you, “the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints.” (Eph. 1:18). And pray that you are experiencing and utilizing the power of God which is in you through the Holy Spirit. “All who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” Romans 8:14

Ephesians 1:20-23. God’s power was most clearly seen when He raised Jesus from the dead, then seated Him at the right hand of the Father. And so Jesus is now in charge – He is Lord and ruler over all powers and authorities, visible and invisible, including the devil and his demons. Thus, you have nothing to fear, nothing to worry about. Jesus is ruling and reigning, and not just in this age, but in the coming age, the 1000-year kingdom age when He will visibly, righteously, powerfully, and gloriously be “King over all the earth.” Zech. 14:9

When you look at this chapter it’s obvious that God’s plans for this world, the church, and you, are being carried out. You were justified, you are now being sanctified, and you will be glorified. (Rom. 8:28-30). That we are living in the end-times means it won’t be long before all things are summed up in Christ, and every knee will bow and “every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Phil. 2:9-11

God wants you to have this hope that’s described in Eph. 1. Be excited about the unimaginable and untold blessings God has in store for you; be serving Him with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength; and be giving Him all the glory. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.” Ephesians 1:3

P.S. I can’t overstate the importance of having an eternal perspective, of seeing the big picture of your life. Here are two other posts that will help you understand God’s overall plan for your life – “The Big Picture: The Present Age and the Ages to Come” and “An Overview of Your Christian Life.” One more thing – this past week, Marv Rosenthal, a dear friend and mentor to me for the past 27 years sped off to heaven to be with the Lord. Marv’s primary ministry was Zion’s Hope – one that focused on end-time’s prophecy and reaching the Jewish people with the gospel. I really encourage you to look at it – “Zion’s Hope” – it is most instructive and encouraging.

I Am Looking Forward To…….

January 1, 2022 / stevenj777

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #234 ~

As Christians, we must look ahead and look forward to what God will do for us, what we are to do for Him, and what He will be doing in the future. It is this faith and hope in God and obedience to Him that energizes and directs our lives – otherwise, we will get stuck and stagnate, unable to spiritually move ahead in the way He desires. So what does God have in store for your life on this earth? What has He planned out for the world, the church, the Jews, and the unbelievers in the last years of this age and in the ages to come? In the following two sections, I will share with you what I and all Christians should be looking forward to.

In 2022 and in the years ahead, I am looking forward to …
* … experiencing and being satisfied by God’s love! Psalm 90:14
* … loving God with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength! Mark 12:30
* … keeping God’s commands and fulfilling His will day after day! Psalm 119:1-8
* … seeing God fulfill His promises and plans for me and others I know! 2 Cor. 1:20
* … God teaching me from His word! Psalm 119:33-34
* … God causing all things to work together for good! Rom. 8:28-30
* … seeing progress and joy in my life and the lives of others! Phil. 1:25
* … growing in the true knowledge of God! 2 Peter 3:18
* … having good, quality times with God on a daily basis! Psalm 63:1-5

* … walking and being led by the Spirit, and bearing fruit for God! Gal. 5:16-18, 22-23
* … using the gifts I’ve been given for the good of others and the glory of God! 1 Pet. 4:10-11
* … open doors and opportunities for the gospel and godly service! Col. 4:3-6
* … being fitted and built together with believers into a dwelling of God! Eph. 2:21-22
* … hearing that Christ is building His church all over the world! Matt. 16:18
* … seeing God supernaturally save people from sin, death, and the devil! Col. 3:13-14
* … being strengthened by the power of God when I’m weak, sick, or worn out! 2 Cor. 12:9-10
* … having warm and refreshing fellowship with Christians! Romans 12:10

* … God giving me all the grace and peace that I need! Eph. 1:2
* … saying no to sin and becoming more holy and Christ-like! 1 Peter 1:14-16
* … resisting and standing firm against the schemes of the devil! Eph. 6:10-11
* … God delivering me out of trials and trouble! Psalm 18:1-3
* … God protecting me from the enemy, and rescuing me from every evil deed! 2 Tim. 4:18
* … seeing God do amazing, marvelous, and brand-new things! Isaiah 43:19
* … needing the Lord and trusting Him as I go through life and hard times! 1 Peter 1:6-9
* … carrying out and completing the work God wants me to do! John 17:4

In the last years of this age and / or in the ages to come, I am looking forward to …
* … the gospel being preached all over the world! Matt. 24:14
* … the 70^th week of Daniel, and all that God will be doing during that time! Daniel 9:27
* … prophesied events being fulfilled for Christians, Jews, and unbelievers! Matt. 24:3-33
* … cosmic disturbances and the great earthquake, the end of the age! Rev. 6:12-14
* … Christ’s coming and the gathering of believers to Himself! Matt. 24:30-31
* … physically dying or being raptured, and forever being with Christ! 1 Thess. 4:13-17
* … receiving a brand-new, immortal, powerful, and glorified body! 1 Cor. 15:40-42
* … that time when we will fully, always, and perfectly love the Lord! Mark 12:30
* … being with believing friends in heaven and in our heavenly homes! Heb. 12:22-24

* … when God will justly punish wicked sinners and evildoers! Psalm 37:12-15
* … seeing the salvation of a large remnant of Jews! Rom. 11:25-27
* … watching Jesus Christ rule and reign as King over the whole earth! Psalm 47:6-8
* … reigning with Jesus Christ during the millennial kingdom! Rev. 5:10
* … seeing God spiritually and physically bless Israel during the millennial kingdom! Psalm 67
* … the rivers clapping their hands and the mountains singing together for joy! Psalm 98:8
* … seeing Christ enact perfect justice during the millennial kingdom! Psalm 72:8-14
* … all the nations worshiping and glorifying the Lord! Psalm 86:9

* … the whole world being full of God’s glory! Isaiah 6:3
* … the entire earth being filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord! Hab. 2:14
* … every tongue confessing that Jesus is Lord, to the glory of God the Father! Phil. 2:11
* … the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and on the earth! Eph. 1:9-11
* … the devil being cast into the lake of fire and being punished forever and ever! Rev. 20:10
* … when there is no more death, mourning, crying, or pain! Rev. 21:4
* … being with Jesus and fulfilling our glorious and eternal purpose! Eph. 2:10
* … being with all the angels and saints and praising God forever and ever! Psalm 145:1-2

As Christians we should never say we don’t know what is going to happen. We don’t know all the details, but we know in general what will be taking place. Indeed, the purposes, plans, and prophecies of God will most certainly be carried out. This should encourage you and fill you with hope, for it means a future filled with blessings, and the satisfaction of knowing that God will be greatly glorified. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

Be looking ahead, and be looking forward to 2022, to all the years of your life, and to the ages to come. And be like Paul who said, “I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:12-14

P.S. As we start this new year, here is an article that should motivate you to use the time God has given you – “The Time of My Life.” Here is another post that tells us that God has predicted the future, and told us what needs to happen before Christ’s return and the rapture of the church – “Bible Prophecy Enables Us To See the Future.”

It’s Not Just About the Baby Jesus

December 22, 2021 / stevenj777

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #233 ~

Christmas, one of the biggest holy days of the year, is celebrated by billions of people all over the world. And what’s it all about? We know it’s not about the food, presents, Christmas songs, or family get-togethers. As that oft quoted saying goes – “Jesus is the reason for the season.” The true Christmas message is not just about the baby Jesus, but about His entire life and purpose. Let’s look at some passages from God’s word that make this crystal clear.

Matthew 1:21-23 – “She (Mary) will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins… they shall call His name ‘Immanuel,’ which translated means, ‘God with us.’” In this passage, the angel reveals to Joseph that Mary will be the mother of Jesus, and that He is not just her son, the son of man, but also the Son of God. Jesus is God in the flesh, and His purpose is to be the Savior, to pay for people’s sins, which He did when He died on the cross. Not only that, but Jesus is Immanuel, and He was with the people at His 1^st coming, and He will be with us again at His 2^nd coming. In fact, “… we shall always be with the Lord.” 1 Thess. 5:17

Matthew 2:6 – “‘And you Bethlehem, land of Judah… out of you shall come forth a ruler who will shepherd My people Israel.’” Jesus was born in that little town of Bethlehem, and His purpose is to rule over the people of Israel. The prophet Micah tells us, “At that time He will be great to the ends of the earth. This One will be our peace” (Micah 5:4-5). During this church age, Jesus is bringing peace to the hearts of individual people, and then during the millennial kingdom, He will bring peace to the whole world, at which time He will be a great and glorious King. “The Lord will be the King over all the earth.” Zechariah 14:9

Luke 1:31-33 – “You (Mary) will bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David, and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.” Again, we read that Jesus was a baby, and that He is both God and man. Jesus is great, and in the age to come, everyone will know He is the greatest person on the planet. That’s because He will be perfectly reigning over Israel and the entire earth, a reign that will go on forever.

Luke 1:46 – “My soul exalts the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.” Luke 1:31-33 tells us that Mary knew she would be the mother of Jesus, the One who would be the eternal King. From Luke 1:47, we learn that she saw God as her Savior, for it was by the saving work of Jesus that her sins were forgiven. She also saw God (Jesus) as her Lord, the One who was Lord of her everyday life, and led her in the work she did for Him. Mary also understood the larger picture, that God did not just do great things for her but would do mighty deeds for all His people, earthly and eternal blessings based on the promises He made to Abraham – “As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and his descendants forever.” Luke 1:55

Luke 1:67-79. “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited us and accomplished redemption for His people, and has raised up a horn of salvation for us…” This is Zechariah’s song, a passage focused on three major promises God made to Israel that also relate to Gentiles. There’s the Davidic Covenant, God’s promise to David that an eternal King, Jesus Himself, would reign over Israel, and bring redemption, “salvation from our enemies” (Luke 1:71). Many 1^st century Jews expected Jesus to deliver them from their Roman enemies, but the full realization of this promise will not be seen until He reigns as King during the 1000-year kingdom age.

There’s the Abrahamic Covenant, God’s promise to Abraham that He would greatly bless Israel, resulting in the whole world being blessed. (Gen. 12:1-3). This promise has a near and far fulfillment, for Israel was blessed in the past, but the lasting fulfillment will be seen in the ages to come. Finally, there’s the New Covenant, the promise to Jeremiah that God would save people from their sins. This promise is personal and is for those Jews and Gentiles who repent of their sins and believe that Jesus Christ died for them and rose again. These will experience the “knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins.” Luke 1:77

All these promises are fulfilled through Jesus Christ. Only through Christ, the Lord, Savior, and King, can any person love God, live for Him, and be truly blessed. And only by Christ can this world be blessed, whether that’s now or in the coming kingdom ages. That’s why the main message of Christmas is Jesus Christ, whether that relates to the past, present, or future. As Zechariah concluded, “The Sunrise from on high will visit us, to shine upon those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Luke 1:78-79

There’s much more to this magnificent, heart-changing, life-changing, world-changing story.
Luke 2:8. “There were some shepherds…” These lowly shepherds were wonderfully surprised that silent night by these angels. One angel told them about Jesus – “I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). Then there’s “the heavenly host praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased’” (Luke 2:13-14). These lower-class shepherds didn’t just hear about Jesus’ birth, they got to see Him. They were doing the most important work, for they were witnesses of Jesus, worshipers of Jesus, and proclaimers of Jesus. Luke 2:15-20

Luke 2:25-35. “My eyes have seen Your salvation” (Luke 2:30). There’s Simeon, a godly old man, who was “looking for the consolation of Israel” (Luke 2:25). Simeon knew all about the promises to the Jews about this baby who would be the Messiah, the Savior and King who would bring salvation, blessing, comfort, and peace to both Jews and Gentiles. Simeon is super-blessed, for not only does He see the Messiah, but He is able to hold Him in his arms.

Luke 2:38. “… looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.” Anna was a godly old woman who was looking for the Messiah. The moment Anna saw Jesus, she knew He was the Messiah, the One she had been praying and fasting about for many, many years. She “began giving thanks to God” (Lk. 2:38), for she knew Jesus was the only One who could bring redemption, salvation, and great blessing to Jerusalem and the people of Israel, as well as to the entire world.

Revelation 12:5. “She gave birth to a Son, a male child, who is to rule the nations with a rod of iron, and her child was caught up to God and His throne.” Speaking of the birth of Jesus and His ascension into heaven, this end-time’s, big-picture verse focuses on the fact that He will be a King and will rule the nations. This, of course, is speaking of the millennial kingdom age, when “God (Jesus) is the King of all the earth… God reigns over the nations.” Psalm 47:7-8

The Christmas message is about Jesus, and not just the baby Jesus. It’s about Jesus being the Son of God and the son of man. It’s about who He is, His person, and what He does, His work. It talks about three key promises God made to man, and they are only fulfilled through Jesus Christ. It tells us that Jesus is the Savior, and He did His work as the Savior at His 1^st coming. It tells us that He is the King, and He will do His work as the King when He reigns over the world at His 2^nd coming. It tells us that He is the Lord, and He is always the Lord, over the world, over the church, and over our own lives. It tells us that Jesus is “Immanuel” which means “God with us.” And He is now with us through the Spirit, but He will be with us in the future, from that moment of the rapture, and forevermore. “I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.” John 14:3

Isaiah 9:6-7 – “A Child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government shall rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, on the throne of David and over His kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will accomplish this.”

P.S. Christmas is a most wonderful time of the year to think about the person of Jesus Christ, who He is, and all He has done for us. We should be so filled with love, joy, and hope. Here are three Christmas posts from the past: “First Coming to Church Age to Second Coming”, “The Christmas Story and Christ’s Second Coming”, “The True Meaning of Christmas.”

Four Ages and Four Earths

December 7, 2021 / stevenj777

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #232 ~

As Christians, we need to see the big picture, where we have come from and where we are going, and how that fits in with God’s overall plans. Having this perspective of His plans for our lives and the world greatly affects how we think about life and live for Him. As you know, people have all kinds of ideas about what has happened in the past, and what they think will take place in the future. Personally, I believe there are four distinct ages, and we are now living in the second one. You may have a different opinion on this, but this is what I believe God says in His word. Let me explain what I mean by these four different ages and four different earths:

The first age was a perfect age and Adam and Eve, perfect people, were living on a perfect earth. There were no sins, problems, or imperfections affecting mankind, animals, or nature – everything was perfectly good. “God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created them. God blessed them, and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it’… God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good” (Gen. 1:27-28, 31). Genesis 1-2 describes this age when God created this sinless world and Adam and Eve were perfectly ruling over it.

The second age is an imperfect age, an evil age (Gal. 1:4), the time in which we now live. It began with the sin of Adam and Eve (Gen. 3:1-7), sin which resulted in death (Gen. 2:17), and which spread to all people (Rom. 5:12-21) and to all generations, corrupting mankind, animals, and nature. “Cursed is the ground because of you… for you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Gen. 3:17-19). “The creation was subjected to futility… the whole creation groans… even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body” (Rom. 8:19-23). Adding to man’s sin is the fact that the devil rules the world during this second age. “The whole world lies in the power of the evil one” (1 Jn. 5:19). Because of the devil and this deadly curse, life can be spiritually, physically, and relationally difficult for Christians living during this sinful age.

Most of the Bible, from Gen. 3 to Rev. 19, focuses on this evil age. During this long period of time, God has worked through the Jews, sent His Son to die for our sins, and is now building the church. As part of the church, it’s now our time to love God, live for Him, and be a bright shining light in this dark world (Matt. 5:16). We know this age has ended when we feel a great earthquake and see great signs in the heavens. Rev. 6:12-14

The third age is the millennial kingdom age, that 1000-year period when Jesus Christ, the perfect One, perfectly rules this world. This world will be restored (“the period of restoration of all things” – Acts 3:21), be regenerated (“in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne” – Matt. 19:28), and be set free from sin (“the creation itself will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God” – Rom. 8:21). Jesus Christ cannot rule over a corrupt earth, but only over one that has been restored and regenerated. There will be sin during this age, but there will be perfect justice, for Christ will rule this world with a rod of iron (Ps. 2:9. Ps. 72). And yes, there will be death, but it will be rare, for “the one who does not reach the age of one hundred will be thought accursed.” Isaiah 65:20

This kingdom age, spoken of six times in Rev. 20, is described in detail in the Old Testament. There we read about the reign of Christ – “God is the King of all the earth (Ps. 47:7, Zech. 14:9), Jews and Gentiles being blessed – “God blesses us so that all the ends of the earth may fear Him” (Ps. 67:6-7, Gen. 12:2-3), and a renovated earth – “Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy.” Psalm 98:8, Isaiah 65:25

It is at this time that “He (God) has put all things in subjection under His (Christ’s) feet” (1 Cor. 15:27, Ps. 2:6). Therefore, “God (Christ) reigns over the nations” (Ps. 47:8). Glorified believers (Rom. 8:23, 1 Cor. 15:40-42) will have inherited the earth (Ps. 37:11, Matt. 5:5), and will be reigning with Christ (Rev. 5:10, 20:6). “Then comes the end (of the kingdom age), when He (Christ) hands over the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule, authority and power. He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. The last enemy that will be abolished is death.” 1 Cor. 15:24-26

The fourth age is the eternal kingdom age. “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth passed away” (Rev. 21:1). The new city of Jerusalem will come down to earth (Rev. 21:1-3). There will be no more sin and death, and the devil, along with all demons and unbelievers, will be gone from this world, for they are forever being punished in the lake of fire (Rev. 21:4, 8; Rev. 20:14-15). All believers will be completely satisfied by God (Rev. 21:5-7, Rev. 22:1-5), and be living with Jesus in the holy city of Jerusalem (Rev. 21:9-27). God will be all in all (1 Cor. 15:28). Heaven and earth will be filled with God’s glory (Is. 6:3). All believers will be eternally worshiping and serving God and the Lord Jesus Christ. Psalm 145:1-2, Rev. 22:3

There you have it, four ages and four earths. Each of these ages is associated with a distinct earth related to God’s purpose for that period of time. During the 1^st age, when there is no sin and death, there is a perfect earth ruled by Adam and Eve (Gen. 1-2). During the 2^nd age, when there is sin and death, there is a corrupt earth ruled by Satan (Gen. 3 – Rev. 19). During the 3^rd age, when there is still sin and death, there is a restored earth perfectly ruled by Jesus Christ. (Rev. 20, Psalm 67:4). During the 4^th age, when there is no sin and death, there is a perfect heaven and perfect earth ruled by God and Jesus Christ. Rev. 21:1 – Rev. 22:5

Here are a few more points about these ages, particularly as it relates to the future.
1. Once this present evil age comes to an end, the church will be raptured, God’s wrath will be poured out upon this wicked world, a remnant of Jews will be saved, the Antichrist will be cast into the lake of fire, and the devil will be chained for 1000 years (Rev. 7-19). Then the next age (Rev. 20) will begin.
2. The fact that we live in the end-times means this age is almost over, and in a little while the millennial kingdom age will begin, and we will be reigning with Christ over this world.

3. 1 Cor. 15:20-28 speaks about the last three ages, this age (vss. 20-23), the millennial kingdom age (vss. 24-27), and the eternal kingdom age (vs. 28).
4. Eph. 1:21 and Eph. 2:7 also speaks of these three ages. Eph. 1:7 says, “… in this age but also in the one to come,” which refers to this present evil age and the coming millennial kingdom age. Eph. 2:7 tells us, “… so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace,” which speaks of the millennial kingdom age and the eternal kingdom age.

5. Knowing what God says about this age and future ages helps you understand the errors of unbelievers, who say this earth may catastrophically come to an end by nuclear war, meteorites, climate change, etc.
6. Be encouraged and excited by the fact that we now live in the end-times of this second age, that it’s our turn to “run the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith….” Hebrews 12:1-2
7. It won’t be long before Jesus Christ returns to rapture the church and, shortly after that, we will begin reigning with Him over a restored and glorious earth. “The earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord.” Habakkuk 2:14

P.S. God wants you to know some things about the future, and it’s an amazing and incredible future that He has planned out for you. Here are some very instructive and related posts – “The Big Picture: the Present Age and the Ages to Come,” and “The Present Church Age and the Kingdom Age.”

This Evil Age is Coming to an End, And Soon!

November 22, 2021 / stevenj777

By Steven J. Hogan

A Saturday Morning Post #231 ~

Some people think life on this planet will keep going for 100’s if not 1000’s of years. Others believe there are acts of man or forces of nature that will either gradually or suddenly destroy this earth. They talk about how a super virus, meteorites, a solar flare, climate change, or a nuclear war may devastate the entire world, or at least a major part of it. But what does God say? He has made it clear that this present age, as we know it, will come to an end, and He has told us exactly how that will happen – and it’s not what people are telling you.

God goes into great detail about this age, especially the last years of this age. That’s because He doesn’t want you to be surprised by what will be happening or be led astray by the lies and errors of non-Christians. “Where is the wise man?… Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?” (1 Cor. 1:20). These sinners don’t know what they are talking about, but God does, and His word spells out the truth about the future. Here’s what He wants you to know about this present age, and how it will end.

* This age we live in is an evil age, a very sinful age. “… the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might rescue us from this present evil age…” Galatians 1:4
* This age started with the sin of Adam and Eve. Their sin resulted in this entire earth and all of mankind being cursed and corrupted. Genesis 3, Romans 8:20-22
* Satan rules the world during this evil age. “The whole world lies in the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19). Yet God is sovereign over everything and everyone, including Satan. Daniel 4:34-35
* Most people living during this age are sinners, are unbelievers. “The gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it.” Matt. 7:13-14

* That there’s another age after this age means this one must come to an end. In Eph. 1:21, God says, “… not only in this age, but in the one to come.” Eph. 2:7 speaks of “the ages to come.”
* That the Jews are back in their land is the reason we know we live in the last years of this evil age, what is often called the end-times. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, Luke 20:24
* That we live in the end-times means it won’t be long before this age comes to an end. Matt. 24:3-42, more than any other prophecy passage, describes what the end-times will look like.
* God will announce when this age comes to an end with two earth-waking signs – cosmic events and a great earthquake. “… a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth made of hair, and the whole moon became like blood… The sky was split apart like a scroll when it is rolled up, and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.” Rev. 6:12-14; Matt. 24:3, 29

*This present age will end when we feel this great earthquake and see these cosmic events. Thus, we must conclude that this age will not end because of a global flood, a nuclear war, a solar flare, or anything else. “You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end (of the age) … all these things are merely the beginning of birth pains.” Matt. 24:6-8
* Many prophesied events will be taking place before this age comes to an end. There will be birth pains, an Israeli treaty, increasing lawlessness, temple sacrifices in Jerusalem, great tribulation, apostasy, the preaching of the gospel, and the Antichrist ruling the earth. “When you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door.” Matthew 24:33
* Discerning Christians will physically see and spiritually sense that this age is coming to an end. By reading God’s word and observing what’s happening in the world, we will “understand the times” (1 Chron. 12:32) and “see the day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25
* God wants Christians to be holy and obedient. We are “to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age.” Titus 2:12

* As Christians, our primary purpose is to preach the gospel right up until the end of this age. “This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end (of this age) will come.” Matthew 24:14
* Christians are to “make disciples of all the nations”, always remembering Jesus’ encouraging promise – “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20
* Christians are to persevere to the end of the age. “The one who endures to the end (of the age), he will be saved (raptured and glorified).” Matthew 24:13 “* The present age ends during the last half of Daniel’s 70^th week, after the Antichrist has been revealed and has been ruling for a short while, and just before Christ returns to rapture the church and defeat that devilish man. 2 Thessalonians 2:7-9

* Most unbelievers don’t believe what God says about the end of this age. They say, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.” They think everything is going to stay the same, and that they won’t be judged, but they are badly mistaken. “The present heavens and earth are being reserved for fire, kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men.” 2 Peter 3:3-7
* After this age is over, God will judge the unbelievers still living on earth. “The tares are the sons of the evil one; and the enemy who sowed them is the devil, and the harvest is the end of the age.” Matthew 13:38-39
* When this age is over, Jesus Christ will rapture the church, pour out His wrath, and redeem a remnant of Jews. Then the next age will begin, and Christ will reign as King upon a renovated and restored earth. Psalm 98, Matthew 19:27-29, Acts 3:19-21

As Christians, don’t be fooled or scared by what sinners are saying, for they are sadly and terribly ignorant of what God is planning to do. We need to wake up to the fact that we live in the last years of this age, and that it won’t be long before Christ returns to rapture the church and judge the world. Then the next age, Christ’s 1000-year reign, will begin. You can’t imagine how dramatically and wonderfully different everything will be during the millennial kingdom age. “Great and marvelous are Your works, O Lord God, the Almighty; righteous and true are Your ways, King of the ages.” (Rev. 15:3). “Let the nations be glad and sing for joy; for You will judge the peoples with uprightness and guide the nations of the earth. Let the peoples praise You, O God; let all the peoples praise You.” Psalm 67:4-5

“God will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God, who has called you into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.” 1 Corinthians 1:8-9

P.S. Here are two other posts about how this age, and that it is going to end: “This Age Is Coming to an End, and Then the New Age Will Begin” and “The Big Picture: the Present Age and the Ages to Come.” Here is an article about the importance of thanksgiving – “Being Thankful – the Character of a Christian.”

What’s Wrong With This World?!?

November 7, 2021 / stevenj777

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #230 ~

What’s wrong with this world? The problem is SIN. It’s not the economy, guns, the climate, schools, police, lack of food, corrupt leaders, or bad laws. The root problem, the real problem is sin, a spiritual cancer that corrupts (Rom. 8:21) and kills. “The soul that sins will die” (Ezek. 18:4). And it’s related to all our other problems. Here are some important lessons to learn about sin:

Sin, the sinner, and its consequences:
* Sin is not worshiping God, the Creator, but instead, is worshiping the creation. Sin is idolatry. It’s rebellion. It’s disobedience. It’s pride. It’s not trusting God. It’s trusting self. Sin is evil, vile, sickening, wicked, wrong, revolting, devilish, and deadly. Deut. 5:7-9; Jer. 2:5, 13; Rom. 1:20-23

* Sin starts in a person’s heart, in his soul, in his innermost being. A sinner’s soul is spiritually blackened, thoroughly dirty, altogether disgusting, and completely detestable to God. Sin is revealed in a person’s thoughts, words, and actions. Ps. 10:3-11, 36:1-4, 51:5-6; Rom. 3:10-18

* The root sin of not loving God is manifested in many ways. In His Word, God describes 100’s of specific sins because He wants us to know what they are and the consequences of committing them. Mark 7:20-23, Rom. 1:28-32, 1 Cor. 6:9-10, Gal. 5:19-21, 2 Tim. 3:1-4, etc.

* God demands a payment for a person’s sin, and it’s death. “The wages of sin is death” (Rom. 6:23). Sin, the most serious crime, is against God Himself, and He must punish it, and its death. This death is spiritual, physical, and may be eternal (the person who never turns to Christ is forever punished and separated from God). “These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of God” (2 Thess. 1:9). “Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire.” Matthew 25:41

* Some people are inwardly sinful but appear outwardly righteous. “You are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness… hypocrisy and lawlessness” (Matt. 23:27-28, Luke 18:9-14). Other people are inwardly sinful and outwardly sinful. “There was a woman in the city who was a sinner” (Luke 7:37). Either way, sin is utterly deadly and must be dealt with, or else there will be hell to pay.

* Many people do not believe in sin. The world often classifies sin as a person’s personality, an addiction, mental illness, or behavioral disorder (anxiety, eating, conduct, etc.). Yes, some people’s problems are strictly mental in nature, but most are spiritually based. Most sinners want to forget, excuse, ignore, or gloss over their sin, for admitting it would mean that God exists, and that they are guilty and deserve to be judged. “If we say that we have no sin… the truth is not in us… if we say we have not sinned, we make God a liar.” 1 John 1:8, 10

* God judges a sinner at different times: 1) During his life on earth – “The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all unrighteousness” (Rom. 1:18, note Deut. 28:15-68). 2) The day of the Lord – for those sinners living on earth at the end of the age (Rev. 8-9, 16). 3). In Hades after his life on earth (Luke 16:23). 4) In the lake of fire at the end of the millennial kingdom. Revelation 20:11-15

Jesus Christ is the only answer to sin:
* Jesus Christ pays for a person’s sins by His death on the cross, or a person pays for his own sins by being punished forever in hell. If a person repents and believes Christ died for him, then he’s forgiven, has eternal life, and goes to heaven. “Christ died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, to bring you to God” (1 Pet. 3:18). “God made Christ who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Cor. 5:21). “He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy.” Titus 3:5

The Christian’s response to sin, and his purpose in life:
* God commands you to keep yourself holy in this evil world. People clean their house, wash the dishes, take a shower, weed the garden, etc., but what’s most important is keeping your soul clean. By God’s word, by God’s Spirit, and by being in a good church, you can live a holy life, and you need to, for only then can you please the Lord and be useful to Him. “Flee youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, with those who call on the Lord.” 2 Timothy 2:22

* Don’t focus on the sin in this world. Don’t be occupied by the bad news and bad things in this world. Don’t think much about the crime, corruption, and conflicts, or you’ll find yourself fretting and getting discouraged. Look to God, do what is good and right, and carry out the work He gives you to do – that’s what can make a difference, and what’s eternally important. “As for you, be strong, and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” 2 Chron. 15:7, Neh. 6:1-4, Psalm 37:1-6

* As a Christian, be an ambassador for Christ. You are to be a bright shining light in this dark and evil world. Be a witness to the lost by your life and words. Share with people the gospel of Christ. Exhort them to turn from their sin and turn to Christ. Tell them that Jesus Christ is the only way to God. “We beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God” (2 Cor. 5:20-21). “Repent and believe in the gospel.” Mark 1:15, Eph. 5:8-13, John 14:6

* To successfully get through life, you need hope. It’s eternally worth it to live for God during your short life on earth – He has a magnificent future in store for you. Your hope is that you will literally be with Jesus (John 14:1-3), that you will be in heaven where there’s absolutely no sin, that you will have an immortal, powerful, perfect, and glorious body (1 Cor. 15:40-42), that you will be with your Christian friends as well as all believers from all time (Heb. 12:22-24), that you will be greatly rewarded for serving God and suffering for Him (Matt. 5:11-12), and that you will be reigning with Christ during the millennial kingdom. Revelation 2:26-27, 5:10, 20:6

The nations, the world, and the end-times
* God judges an individual nation because of its collective and cumulative sin. God’s word gives many examples and history proves it. You should pray, “Arise, O Lord, do not let man prevail. Let the nations be judged before You” (Ps. 9:19, Rev. 6:9-11). The final judgment of the nations, the outpouring of God’s wrath, occurs just after the rapture, during the day of the Lord. (Rev. 8-9, 16). “You have rebuked the nations; You have destroyed the wicked.” Psalm 9:5

* Sin is the worst problem, engulfing the entire world, yet God is sovereignly causing all its evil to result in His purposes being fulfilled. God used Herod and Pilate to carry out the worst sin ever, the crucifixion of Christ, but it was the best thing that ever happened (Acts 4:27-28). So too, all this sin is part of God’s plan to bring about Christ’s return and the rapture, His wrath, and His 1000-year reign. “All the nations You have made will come and worship before You, O Lord; they will bring glory to Your name. You are great and do marvelous deeds. You alone are God.” Psalm 86:8-10

* The United States is being judged for her sin. Rom. 1:18-32 describes the reason for God’s wrath, a 4-stage progression of sin, which is what we have seen in this country over the past 60 years. We have gone from rejecting God to immorality to homosexuality to depravity (Isaiah 5:20). God has been righteously and severely judging our country, with the result that she is being diminished in power, and sometime in the future, Antichrist’s kingdom will be ruling this earth (Rev. 13). (And don’t ever think that the government, leaders, laws, capitalism or socialism, or conservatism or liberalism are the answers. Remember, sin is our real problem, and only Jesus Christ is the answer. And there’s no doubt that we will see His victory over sin in this age and the next age). Psalms 67, 96; Phil. 1:9-11; 1 Cor. 15:24-28, Rev. 19:11-21

* The world will become increasingly sinful as we get closer to Christ’s coming. For the Christian, this will be an extremely treacherous place to live. That’s because “lawlessness is increased” (Matt. 24:12); “the man of lawlessness (Antichrist) is revealed” (2 Th. 2:3); they “took pleasure in wickedness” (2 Th. 2:12); and “evil men… will proceed from bad to worse” (2 Tim. 3:13). And there will be great tribulation – “They will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name” (Matt. 24:9). Yet, this is the time God wants you to be alive. Remember, God will give you all the grace you need to be holy, to be a good witness, and to do the work He wants you to do (2 Cor. 9:8). “The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.” Romans 13:12

You must understand this subject of sin, especially in the end-times, and here’s why: #1, for your own life and conscience, and so you can be loving God with all your heart; #2, so you can be a “vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master” (2 Tim. 2:21-22), and a good witness to the lost; and #3, so you are not confused, upset, or discouraged by what’s going on in this terribly wicked world, but rather, are a good servant and soldier for Christ. “The men of Issachar understood the times and knew what they should do.” 1 Chron. 12:32

P.S. As Christians, this subject of sin must be understood, or you will have problems growing in the way God wants, and difficulty helping others, both saved and lost. I would encourage you to find the time to read these three articles, for they will be extremely helpful now and in the years ahead: Evildoers in the End-Times; A Little Suffering and A Lot of Glory; and Your Spiritual Service: A Member of The Special Forces.

What’s Wrong With the United States?

October 20, 2021 / stevenj777

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #229 ~

Very bad things are taking place in the United States! There’s the border crisis, growing inflation, continuing Covid-19, problems in schools, the supply-chain dilemma, drugs and death, the tragic Afghani situation, loss of global status, increasing crime, atheistic philosophies, and false teaching. These are all major problems, and they are not just random or accidental. God has sovereignly directed them and are His way of judging our country. “In those days… God was troubling them with every kind of distress” (2 Chron. 15:5-6). “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people.” Rom. 1:18

Why are these bad things happening? Why does God cause / or allow them to occur? Why does He want us to suffer like this? Because God is holy, and He wants to wake us up to the fact that we’re sinning against Him, and that sin is our primary problem. As a country, we’ve turned away from God, and are not loving our Creator, but instead, are idolatrous, are loving the creature, are greatly sinning. Rom. 1:19-25

A massive amount of sin has infiltrated every city and town of the United States, and it’s worse than ever been before. You know that cancer can kill – well our sin is like a malignant cancer that’s close to killing our country. We are in critical condition! And sadly, most people, even some Christians, don’t realize that sin is our main problem. This country has been very concerned about Covid-19, the physical virus that has infected 100’s of millions of people all over the world. But what should really upset us is sin, that deadly spiritual virus that has affected every single soul on this planet and is terribly and eternally worse than Covid-19.

What exactly is sin? God’s word explicitly and continually describes sin. That’s because God wants us to know exactly what it is, and convince us that it’s our most serious problem. And it must be dealt with or else there will be horrible consequences. Today I want you to look at some verses on sin. Read them slowly, for its vitally important that you understand this subject of sin, for its our root problem, our #1 enemy, one that attacks the soul and the mind.

First, here are some verses about sin in general:
* Exodus 20:3-5 – “You shall have no other gods before Me… you shall not make for yourself an idol… you shall not worship them.”
* Psalm 14:1 – “The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God.’ They are corrupt, they have committed abominable idolatries.”
* Psalm 36:1, 3 – “There is no fear of God before his eyes… he has ceased to be wise.”
* Psalm 78:22 – “They did not believe in God and did not trust His salvation.”
* Isaiah 5:24 – “They rejected the law of the Lord… and despised the word of the Holy One.”
* Jeremiah 2:5 – “They went far from Me and walked after emptiness and became empty.”
* Romans 1:21, 24, 26, 28 – “They did not honor Him as God or give thanks… (they) exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man… God gave them over to sexual impurity… to degrading passions (homosexuality)… to a depraved mind.”
* 1 John 3:4 – “Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness.”

Here are a number of verses that specifically describe this sin:
* Exodus 22:21 – “You shall not wrong a stranger… you shall not afflict any widow or orphan.”
* Exodus 23:1-3 – “You shall not bear a false report… you shall not follow the masses in doing evil… nor shall you be partial to a poor man in his dispute.”
* Psalm 10:3 – “The greedy man curses and spurns the Lord… his thoughts are, ‘There is no God.’”
* Psalm 119:69-70 – “the arrogant… Their hearts are callous and unfeeling.”
* Proverbs 6:16-19 – “There are six things which the Lord hates, yes, seven… haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that run rapidly to evil, a false witness who utters lies, and a man who stirs up dissension.”
* Proverbs 19:15 – “Laziness brings on deep sleep, and an idle man will suffer hunger.”
* Isaiah 3:16-26 – “The daughters of Zion are proud and walk with heads held high, flirting with their eyes, going along with mincing steps… In that day the Lord will take away the… headbands, crescent necklaces, dangling earrings, bracelets, veils… finger rings, nose rings, festal robes, capes, cloaks, purses, and mirrors… destitute, she will sit on the ground.”
* Isaiah 5:20 – “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil.”
* Isaiah 5:21 – “Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes.”
* Isaiah 5:22-23 – “Woe to those who are heroes in drinking wine… who justify the wicked for a bribe, and take away the rights of the ones who are in the right.”

* Jeremiah 5:27-28 – “They have become great and rich. They are fat, they are sleek, they also excel in deeds of wickedness.”
* Jeremiah 23:31 – “I’m against those who prophesied false dreams… and led My people astray.”
* Ezekiel 16:15 – “You trusted in your beauty and played the harlot because of your fame.”
* Ezekiel 16:49 – “… the sin of your sister Sodom: she and her daughter were arrogant, overfed, and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and the needy.”
* Hosea 4:2 – “There is no… knowledge of God in the land… There is swearing, deception, murder, stealing, and adultery. They employ violence, so that bloodshed follows bloodshed.”
* Amos 6:1-5 – “Woe to those who are at ease in Zion… who recline on beds of ivory and sprawl on their couches and eat lambs from their flock… they have composed songs for themselves… they anoint themselves with the finest of oils… they have not grieved over the ruin of Joseph.”
* Malachi 2:7-8 – “The lips of a priest should preserve knowledge… but as for you, you have turned aside from the way and by your teaching have caused many to stumble.”
* Malachi 2:14-16 – “You have broken faith with her, though she is your wife… I hate divorce.”
* Matthew 7:15 – “Beware of the false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”
* Matthew 12:36 – “Every careless word that people speak, they shall give an account for it on the day of judgment.”

* Mark 7:21-22 – “Out of the hearts of men proceed the evil thoughts, sexual immorality, thefts, murders, adulteries, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness.”
* Luke 6:24-26 – “Woe to you who are rich (fortune)… who are well-fed (food)… who laugh now (fun)… woe to you when all men speak well of you (fame).”
* Luke 12:15, 19 – “A man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions… ‘Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years to come; take your ease, eat, drink and be merry.’”
* Romans 1:29-31 – “They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they are senseless, faithless, heartless, and ruthless.”
* 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 – “Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards… will inherit the kingdom of God.”
* Galatians 5:19-21 – “The deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry… strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger… envying, drunkenness, carousing.”
* Ephesians 5:4 – “There must be no filthiness, silly talk, or course jesting, which are not fitting.”
* Philippians 2:14 – “Do all things without grumbling or complaining.”
* Colossians 3:18-22 – “Wives, be subject to your husbands… Husbands, love your wives.”
* 2 Timothy 3:2-4 – “People will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.”
* James 5:5 – “You have lived luxuriously on the earth and led a life of wanton pleasure… you have condemned and put to death the righteous man.”

Each of these verses describe the sin in our country, and help you understand the heart of our problems. Indeed, the United States is sick with sin, so sick that she’s on her death bed. This is extremely sad and sobering and should greatly concern every single person in this country. What’s really wrong with our country is not climate change, the schools, the economy, crime, guns, the police, the politicians, the government, or the Russians or the Chinese. Our #1 problem is our sin, and it’s directly related to everything else that’s bad in our country.

Thankfully, there’s an answer to this deadly sin, and it’s the person of Jesus Christ (Rom. 6:23). That’s because He dealt with our sins by dying on a cross, thereby paying for them. And only those who admit they have sinned, and repent of their sins, and believe that Christ died to pay for them will be forgiven, be perfectly holy, and be forever with God in heaven. “God made Him (Christ) who knew no sin to be sin that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Cor. 5:21). “God demonstrates His own love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8). “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13

I’ve been observing things as a Christian for close to 50 years now, since the early ‘70s, and it’s obvious that our country is spiritually and morally much worse – and I don’t see things getting any better. It’s quite clear that the people “do not know nor do they understand; they walk about in darkness; all the foundations of the earth are shaken” (Ps. 82:5). Look at our churches, families, schools, and culture – generally speaking, they have been going downhill, and are now in very bad shape. Not only that, but we live in the end-times, the last years before Christ’s return and the rapture of the church, when the Bible tells us that “lawlessness is increased.” Matt. 24:12

Dear friend, these are extremely dark and difficult days, and increasingly so. There’s going to be more sin, evil and wickedness in this world, and yes, God will keep judging it. But what a time to be alive, to live for God, to share the gospel, and do our part in ushering in the kingdom of God! “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matt. 6:10). “Come Lord, Jesus.” Revelation 22:20

P.S. The United States is quickly and tragically going downhill, and it’s all part of God’s end-time plans. Here are two other posts that will help you understand His plans for this country at this time in history: “Afghanistan and America – Lessons to Learn” and “The Downfall of the United States Before the Return of Christ.”

How to Keep Going for God

October 9, 2021 / stevenj777

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #228 ~

As you know, life can be difficult and, at times, extremely difficult. There are internal struggles, the fight against sin, and relational conflicts. There are problems at home and at work. There is sickness, chronic ailments, and old age. There is government oppression. There is slander, persecution, and attacks from the devil. There are the daily challenges of living in an evil and fallen world. Add to this the normal trials of life. And the Antichrist isn’t even here yet, and with him, the great tribulation Christians will go through. How do we keep going? How are we to keep loving God and living for Him? How are we to persevere?

God will keep you going to the end. “I am always with You. You hold me by my right hand… You will take me into glory” (Ps. 73:23-26). “He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 1:8). “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 1:6). “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom” (2 Tim. 4:8). God promises you that He will keep you going. He is your spiritual Father, and He won’t let you slip and fall by the wayside and fail to make it to your heavenly home. But what part do you play in persevering for the Lord? What are the divine means by which you can victoriously keep going through all the years of your life? Here are some keys, some God-given truths that will enable you to endure to the end.

1. The word of God. Knowing, believing, and holding on to God’s word is essential if you are to persevere and be a successful, God-glorifying Christian. “His delight is in the law of the Lord and on His law he meditates day and night… Whatever he does prospers” (Ps. 1:2-3). As for me, I love Psalm 119, for it explains in great detail the benefits of loving and living by God’s word. “I have hidden Your word in my heart” (Ps. 119:11). Matt. 4:4, John 8:32, 2 Tim. 3:16-17

2. Your relationship with God is all important. You need to know that God is your Father, and you are His child, His chosen and holy one. Walk with God and, as you do, you will love Him, listen to Him, pray to Him, enjoy Him, and obey Him. “Let him who boasts, boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth” (Jer. 9:23-24). “This is eternal life, that they may know You.” John 17:3

3. Knowing Jesus Christ is vital. First and foundational you need to believe that Jesus Christ died to pay for all your sins. That’s just the beginning, for then you are to love Him, trust Him, and grow in your relationship with Him. He is to be your best friend. “I know My own, and My own know Me” (John 10:14). “I want to know Christ” (Phil. 3:10). “Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:3

4. Having a close relationship with the Holy Spirit is critical for perseverance. It is truly miraculous that the Spirit is in you, and that He is with you forever. (John 14:16). And He wants to lead you (Rom. 8:14), comfort you (John 14:16), teach you (John 14:26), strengthen you (Eph. 5:18), keep you holy (Gal. 5:16), and have fellowship with you (2 Cor. 13:14). He is a perfect and precious gift from God, a daily companion and helper, One you can always count on.

5. God’s grace is indispensable. Grace is a general word that speaks of God’s generous gift to you, the divine power and enablement you need every day in every area of your life. Only by God’s grace can you live and keep going for Him. Paul wrote extensively about this – “Grace to you” (Eph. 1:2). “God is able to make all grace abound to you” (2 Cor. 9:8). “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9). “I became a servant… by the gift of God’s grace.” Eph. 3:7

6. Knowing God’s great love is necessary for perseverance. This love is personal, from God to you, for it’s what you need and when you need it. His love is powerful and energizing. His love is specific, for it’s forgiving, patient, good, compassionate, and gentle. Because the Christian is strengthened by God’s love, he can continue on to the very end. “Surely, goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life” (Ps. 23:6). “Keep yourself in God’s love.” (Jude 21). “His love is everlasting.” Psalm 136

7. God’s purpose enables you to stay on the highway to heaven. Believing you have a purpose motivates you, keeps you forward-looking, and results in God being glorified and people being blessed. It’s by knowing and obeying God’s commands that you have purpose, direction, and a reason to live. Paul was passionate about fulfilling his purpose (Acts 26:14-18) – might we be like him. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7

8. God’s promises are a means to persevere. God’s commands tell you what to do for God, but His promises tell you what He will do for you. Knowing God’s promises is a daily source of His love, life, and grace, and are needed for progress, joy, and endurance. Here are three: “He will lead you in the way you should go” (Ps. 32:8). “I will never leave you” (Heb. 13:5); “Those who wait for the Lord… will run and not get tired… will walk and not get weary.” Isaiah 40:30-31

9. Be in a godly church, a church where there’s good teaching, agape love, true holiness, real devotion, where there’s faith, fellowship, friendships, and encouragement, and where you can use your gift to serve others. Be an active part of the body of Christ. “Christ Jesus… in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.” Eph. 2:20-22, 3:14-21, 4:11-16

10. Walk by faith. Faith is needed for every facet of your life. It’s believing God and relying on His word. It’s central to your relationship with God, experiencing His grace, knowing His love, and fulfilling your purpose. Faith isn’t based on feelings (2 Cor. 5:7) but comes from God and His word (Rom. 10:17). Learn from others who, by faith, pleased God and gained approval from Him (Heb. 11). “Trust in the Lord with all your heart” (Prov. 3:5). “Have faith in God.” Mark 11:22

11. Hope is essential for perseverance. Hope is knowing that the future is infinitely better than the present, that living for God on earth results in eternal blessings in heaven. Hope is being excited about being with Jesus, being in heaven, being with friends, and being glorified. Hope is looking forward to the future, to receiving your inheritance and all these rewards. “We have this hope as an anchor of the soul.” (Heb. 6:19) “… You will abound in hope by the power of the Spirit.” Romans 15:13

12. Remember the past. “I will remember the deeds of the Lord… I will meditate on all Your works” (Ps. 77:10-12). You are not to focus on the past, but you are to think about it and thank God for what He has done for you. This is encouraging, for you will more clearly understand how God has wisely, lovingly, faithfully, and sovereignly worked in your life. Then you will see the continuity of your life, that what God has done in the past connects to the present, and this helps you to persevere, to keep moving ahead into the future. “Thus far the Lord has helped us” (1 Sam. 7:12). “Your way, O God, is holy. What god is so great as our God? You are the God who performs miracles.” (Ps. 77:13-14). Psalm 18:30-32

All these truths are keys to persevering, to going strong and successfully to the end. “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to work for His good pleasure” (Phil. 2:12-13). It is by God’s grace that you do your part and work out your salvation, which means it is God who keeps you persevering, who enables you to endure all the way to heaven. “I press on to take hold of that for which Christ took hold of me… I press on to toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward.” (Phil. 3:12-14). “To Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Jude 24-25

P.S. The Christian life is truly a marathon. You need to learn to persevere for God, to keep going day after day and year after year. Look to God, pray to Him, and He will help you to endure to the end. Then finally, you will see the Lord Jesus face to face. Another similar and helpful post is “What Keeps Me Going to the End?”

Working for God While Waiting for Christ

October 3, 2021 / stevenj777

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #227 ~

“You shall worship the Lord your God and serve Him only” (Matt. 4:10). This verse sums up our eternal purpose as Christians. Worshiping the Lord, loving Him, praising Him, singing to Him – and serving Him, working for Him, obeying Him, fulfilling His plans – this is what we are to do every day of our lives on earth, in heaven, and forever and ever.

I am in my late sixties, and I ask myself, “What am I to do?” I am to worship and serve the Lord. I look around and see other people focused on food, fortune, fun, and fame (Luke 6:24-26), and I wonder, “What am I to do?” I am to worship and serve the Lord! I see others my age who are retired and engaged in all kinds of leisure activities (Luke 12:19), and I think, “And what am I to do?” I am to worship and serve the Lord! I hear of evil things happening around the world and, at times, get worried, distracted, and angry (Psalm 37:1), “But what am I to do?” I am to worship and serve the Lord! And now that we’re living in the end-times, that critically important period of time before the return of Christ to rapture the church, I think, “What I am to do?” I am to worship and serve the Lord!

I am convinced God chose me to be holy in His sight, that He called me, justified me, and left me on earth so I can worship and serve Him (Eph. 1:4-5, Phil. 1:21-26). I also know I am not my own, that Jesus Christ bought me with His own blood, and that I am now His slave and servant. This freeing truth means I am not a hell-bound slave of the devil lost in a heathen world doing what is sinful and worthless. Instead, I am a child and servant of God! (Rom. 8:12-17). To have a heavenly Father who dearly loves me, and to be able to love and serve Him during my life on earth is such a wonderful blessing. “Not one of us lives for himself… for if we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord… therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lords.” Romans 14:7-8

Every Christian must learn what it means to serve the Lord and work for Him. When we talk about work, we usually think of an 8-4, 9-5, or part-time job, but I’m talking about working fulltime, 24-7 for the Lord. Jesus gives a parable illustrating this point, concluding with the statement – “When you do all the things which are commanded you, say, ‘We are unworthy slaves; we have done only that which we ought to have done’” (Luke 17:7-10). This is instructive on two points. First, we are to work for God all the time, every day, every evening, and every week of our life. Second, whatever we do, we are working for God, whether it’s making a meal, cleaning house, raising children, praying, shopping, encouraging someone, serving in a ministry, or mowing the lawn. “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men.” Colossians 3:23

Jesus is the best example we have of one who worked fulltime for God. He knew He was God’s Son and also His Slave. “Christ Jesus, who although He existed in the form of God did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave.” (Phil. 2:5-6). To His disciples, Jesus said, “I am among you as One who serves” (Luke 22:27). To the Jews, Jesus said, “My Father is always at His work to this very day, and I, too, am working” (John 5:17). And Jesus worked like no man has ever worked – crisscrossing the nation of Israel, He was continually teaching, healing, praying, meeting needs, and training His disciples.

Jesus willingly and faithfully worked for and with His Father. He truly loved His Father and really wanted to please Him, and therefore loved to work, doing exactly what His Father asked Him to do. “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to accomplish His work” (John 4:24). Jesus was energized both by His Father’s love and by doing the very work His Father wanted Him to do. At the end of His earthly life, Jesus told Him, “I brought You glory on earth by completing the work You gave Me to do” (John 17:4). Jesus was overjoyed that He could work for His Father, thereby fulfilling His earthly mission.

Jesus’ example and this John 17:4 verse greatly motivate me. And through all the years, God has given me plenty of work to do. Now I have not been a perfect worker, but Paul’s example from Phil. 3:13-14 helps me – “One thing I do – forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” No matter my age, or what I have done, or what has taken place, or my weakness or sin, I am to say, “I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:12). What a privilege to be able to work for God, to do what He planned for me to do, and trained me to do. “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10

Now that we are in the end-times, we should be very thankful and excited that we can use our spiritual gifts to serve the Lord, that we can do our part, that we can help build the church and make disciples. We are on the very last leg of this ~2000-year church-age race, and it’s our turn, our time to run for Christ (Heb. 9:27-28, 12:1-3). It won’t be long before we cross the finish line, for in a very little while, we will either physically die or be raptured by Christ. Hebrews 10:37

These three end-time passages should encourage you in doing God’s work:
* Luke 12:42-43 – “Who is the faithful and sensible slave who His master put in charge of His household to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that slave whom His master finds so doing when He comes.” Your heavenly Master wants you to faithfully serve those in the church.
* Luke 19:13 – “He called ten of His slaves and gave them ten minas and said to them, ‘Do business with this until I come back.’” You are to use the gifts God has given you to do the work He wants you to do, right up until the return of His Son.
* 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10 – “They themselves report… how you turned to God from idols to serve a living and true God, and to wait for His Son from heaven…” You are to be serving God while waiting for Christ.

Might you keep serving your heavenly Father to the very end, and then you will be able to say to Him, “I brought You glory on earth by completing the work You gave me to do” (John 17:4). And Jesus will say to you, “Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things. I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your Master.” Matthew 25:21

P.S. The immigration issue is an important one – and how does God want us to think? Here is a post that will help – “Immigration: As It Is, They Desire a Better Country.” And Covid-19 is important too. In fact. I am just getting over it – thankfully. And what does God want us to think about it? Here are two previous posts: “From the Coronavirus to Christ’s Coming and the Rapture” and “The Coronavirus: Fear and Panic, or Faith and Peace.”

Christ's Kingdom and the End Times

Page 10 of 34

Marv Rosenthal – A Servant of God

Ephesians 1 – A Big-Picture Prophecy Passage

I Am Looking Forward To…….

It’s Not Just About the Baby Jesus

Four Ages and Four Earths

This Evil Age is Coming to an End, And Soon!

What’s Wrong With This World?!?

What’s Wrong With the United States?

How to Keep Going for God

Working for God While Waiting for Christ

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