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Exposing The Law of Attraction

Herein, we focus on the “spiritual Trojan Horse” of the Law of Attraction (LOA) and how it subtly replaces biblical faith with occult principles, with scriptures to support the warnings.

1. The Core Deception: “You Are God”

Scafidi argues that the fundamental root of the Law of Attraction is the belief that humans have the innate power to create their own reality through their thoughts and vibrations. She identifies this as the same original lie from the Garden of Eden.

  • The Teaching: LOA teaches that you are a “co-creator” with equal authority to the Creator. Scafidi warns that this shifts the focus from God’s Will to Man’s Will.
  • Scripture Used: > “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” (Genesis 3:5)
  • The Warning: This is a form of self-worship. If you believe you “attract” everything, you become the center of your universe, effectively making yourself an idol.

2. Faith vs. “Vibrational Alignment”

A major point of her talk was the distinction between biblical faith and the “frequency” or “energy” mechanics taught in New Age manifestation.

  • The Teaching: LOA teaches that the Universe is a cosmic vending machine that responds to your “vibration.” Scafidi argues that this is actually witchcraft—the attempt to control or manipulate the spiritual realm through rituals, affirmations, or mental techniques.
  • Scripture Used:“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1)
  • The Contrast: Biblical faith is trust in a Person (Jesus Christ), while manifestation is trust in a Principle or a “Law.” Faith says, “Thy will be done”; LOA says, “My will be done.”

3. The Danger of “Positive Thinking” and Silence

Scafidi addresses the common practice in business circles of avoiding “negative” words to prevent “attracting” bad luck.

  • The Teaching: In LOA, suffering or “negative” thoughts are seen as failures of alignment. Scafidi argues this prevents Christians from reaching out for help and ignores the biblical reality of trials.
  • Scripture Used:“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
  • The Reality: We are called to endure trials with joy, not to pretend they don’t exist in hopes of “manifesting” them away.

4. Discerning “The Universe”

Many Christians use the term “The Universe” interchangeably with “God.” Scafidi explicitly warns against this.

  • The Teaching: “The Universe” is a created thing, not the Creator. To pray to or trust in the “Universe” is pantheism.
  • Scripture Used:“They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.” (Romans 1:25)

5. The Role of the Heart and Repentance

The summit focused on entrepreneurs, and Scafidi challenged the audience to examine their motives for wealth and success.

  • The Teaching: Many engage in LOA because they want the “blessings” of God without the “Lordship” of Christ. She calls for a “burning of the plows”—a total abandonment of New Age tools (vision boards used for manifestation, ritualistic affirmations, etc.).
  • Scripture Used:“The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9)
  • The Call to Action: Scafidi urges Christians to repent of trying to “command” the spiritual realm and to instead submit to the sovereignty of God.

Summary Table: Biblical Truth vs. Law of Attraction

Concept Law of Attraction (LOA) Biblical Christianity
The Source The Universe / Higher Self Jehovah (The Triune God)
The Power Your Thoughts / Words The Holy Spirit / God’s Will
The Goal Material Success / Happiness Holiness / The Glory of God
Suffering Low Vibration / Misalignment Refinement / Identification with Christ
Authority Man commands the Universe Man submits to God

Defining New Age “ungodliness” from a biblical perspective involves identifying practices that shift authority from the Creator to the self, the “Universe,” or other spiritual entities. In Christian theology, these are typically categorized as idolatry (worshiping the created), divination (seeking hidden knowledge outside of God), or sorcery (attempting to manipulate the spiritual realm).

For more on this subject: New Age Ideologies in Conflict with God

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The Divine Foundation of Easter

Based on Biblical prophecy, the Jewish festival calendar, and insights into the “Hebrew roots” of the New Testament, the term “10th of Nisan” means the 10th day of the first month of the year,  1

In the traditional “Passion Week” view, here is the breakdown of the days and specific times Jesus was arrested, crucified, and died:

1. The Arrest: Late Thursday Night / Early Friday Morning

According to the Gospels, Jesus celebrated the Last Supper on Thursday evening.

Time: Roughly between Midnight and 3:00 AM.

  • The Scene: After praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was betrayed by Judas and arrested by a mob. He was then taken through a series of “night trials” before the High Priest and the Sanhedrin while it was still dark.

2. The Crucifixion: Friday Morning

As the sun rose on what we now call Good Friday, Jesus was moved from the Jewish leaders to the Roman Governor, Pontius Pilate.

  • The Sentence: After being scourged and mocked, He was led to Golgotha.

  • The Time: Mark 15:25 explicitly states He was crucified at the “third hour,” which in modern times is 9:00 AM.

3. The Darkness and Death: Friday Afternoon

While Jesus was on the cross, a supernatural darkness covered the land for three hours.

The Darkness: From the “sixth hour” to the “ninth hour” (12:00 PM to 3:00 PM).

  • The Death: Jesus died at the “ninth hour,” which is 3:00 PM.

  • The Significance: This is the exact time in the Jewish Temple when the afternoon Passover lambs were being sacrificed.

Summary Timeline (Modern Time)

Event Day Estimated Time
Arrest Thursday Night / Friday Morning 12:00 AM – 3:00 AM
First Trial (Pilate) Friday Morning 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Crucifixion Begins Friday Morning 9:00 AM
Sun Goes Dark Friday Midday 12:00 PM
Death of Jesus Friday Afternoon 3:00 PM
Burial Friday Evening Before Sunset (approx. 6:00 PM)

The Historic Link to the Passover

1. The Egyptian Passover: 10th of Nisan

In Exodus 12:3, God commanded through Moses that the Passover lamb be chosen on the 10th day of the first month. It was to live with the family for four days to be inspected for flaws.

  • The Fulfillment as the true Lamb: Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey (Palm Sunday) on the 10th of Nisan. Just as the lambs were being led into the city of Jerusalem for the Passover inspection, the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29) entered to be scrutinized by the Pharisees and Sadducees.
  • Prophecy: “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion… behold, thy King cometh unto thee… riding upon an ass” (Zechariah 9:9).

2. The Preparation: 14th of Nisan (Passover)

On the 14th of Nisan, at the “twilight” (literally between the evenings), the Passover lambs were slaughtered.

  • The Fulfillment: Jesus celebrated the Last Supper (a Jewish Seder) and was arrested in Gethsemane. His trial and crucifixion occurred on the same day the lambs were being sacrificed in the Temple.
  • Prophecy: “He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth” (Isaiah 53:7).
  • The Timing: Jesus was nailed to the cross at the third hour (9:00 AM), the same time the morning sacrifice began in Jerusalem. He died at the ninth hour (3:00 PM), the exact moment the High Priest would slay the corporate Passover lamb for the nation.

3. The Burial: Feast of Unleavened Bread

Immediately following Passover is the Feast of Unleavened Bread (Nisan 15). Leaven represents sin; bread without leaven represents purity.

  • The Fulfillment: Jesus, the “Bread of Life” born in Bethlehem (House of Bread), was placed in the tomb. He was the sinless (unleavened) sacrifice.
  • Prophecy: “For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption” (Psalm 16:10).

4. The Resurrection: Feast of Firstfruits

The Torah mandates the Feast of Firstfruits on the “morrow after the Sabbath” following Passover (Leviticus 23:11).

  • The Fulfillment: Jesus rose from the dead on the first day of the week—the Feast of Firstfruits. He is the “firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20).
  • Prophecy: “After two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up” (Hosea 6:2).

5. The Ascension: 40 Days Later

Jesus remained on earth for 40 days, appearing to many, before ascending from the Mount of Olives.

  • The Fulfillment: His ascension marked his return to the Father to act as the High Priest in the heavenly Tabernacle.
  • Prophecy: “Lift up your heads, O ye gates… and the King of glory shall come in” (Psalm 24:7-10) and the vision of the Son of Man coming to the Ancient of Days (Daniel 7:13).

The Future Advent: The Lion and the Lamb

While Jesus came first as the Lamb to take away sin, he returns as the Lion of the Tribe of Judah to execute judgment.

  • The Second Coming: Prophecy states He will return to the same location from which He left—the Mount of Olives.
  • Prophecy: “And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives…” (Zechariah 14:4).
  • The Marriage Supper: Revelation 19 describes the “Marriage Supper of the Lamb,” where the sacrifice of the 14th of Nisan reaches its ultimate prophetic conclusion.

The “mystery of the Lamb” is not just a past event but a divine universal reality that rings throughout history. The Lamb is the only one worthy to open the seals of the final judgment (Revelation 5). This suggests that the same mercy found in the Passover blood is the only protection available during the coming “Day of the Lord.”

1 Johnathan Cahn

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A Life that looks like home to your soul

Building a “godly home for the soul” is a beautiful metaphor for inner transformation. It suggests that our internal world—our thoughts, habits, and peace—should be a place where the Holy Spirit feels at home.

Scripture often uses the imagery of construction and indwelling to describe this process. Here is how you can build that internal sanctuary.

1. Lay the Foundation: The Rock

Every home is only as stable as its foundation. In a world of shifting cultural “sand,” a godly soul must be anchored in the person and teachings of Jesus.

  • The Blueprint: “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock” (Matthew 7:24).
  • The Practice: It’s not just about reading the Word, but doing it. Consistency in obedience creates an unshakeable inner life when storms hit.

2. Framework: Guarding the Doors and Windows

What you allow into your soul determines the “atmosphere” of your home. Your eyes and ears are the entry points.

  • The Blueprint: “I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes” (Psalm 101:3).
  • The Practice: Be intentional about your “input.” If your soul feels cluttered or anxious, check what media, conversations, or environments you are allowing to enter. A godly home requires a filter.

3. Interior Design: The Mindset

A home is defined by its “decor”—the thoughts we dwell on. If you dwell on fear or bitterness, the soul feels like a basement. If you dwell on grace, it feels like a sunroom.

  • The Blueprint: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure… think about these things” (Philippians 4:8).
  • The Practice: Practice “mental housekeeping.” When a toxic thought enters, replace it with a specific promise from Scripture.

4. Maintenance: The Altar of Prayer

A home stays warm through its heating source. For the soul, that heat comes from a “continual conversation” with God.

  • The Blueprint: “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
  • The Practice: View prayer not as a chore, but as the “breath” of your home. It keeps the air fresh and the connection to the Father open.

5. The Guest of Honour: The Holy Spirit

Ultimately, we aren’t just building a house for ourselves; we are building a temple for God.

  • The Blueprint: “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you…?” (1 Corinthians 6:19).
  • The Practice: Yielding control. A godly home is one where the Spirit has the “keys” to every room—even the secret ones we’d rather hide.

Summary Table

Element Spiritual Application Key Verse
Foundation Obedience to Christ Matthew 7:24
Walls/Roof Protection & Truth Psalm 91:1-2
Atmosphere Gratitude & Praise Psalm 100:4
Cleaning Repentance & Grace 1 John 1:9

 

Building this kind of life is a lifelong renovation project, not a weekend DIY. Be patient with yourself—the Great Architect is still at work.

Protecting Marriage

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We will see His face

In Revelation 22:3–4, the phrase “no longer will anything be cursed” could mean that nothing accursed will be in God’s presence. This would fulfill Zechariah 14:11, considering that the church is now called the New Jerusalem. More likely, it refers to God lifting the curse placed in Eden (Genesis 3:17–18).

The phrase the throne of God and of the Lamb indicates the oneness of God and the Lamb, as well as God’s presence right among his people, and they will see his face. The face of God had not been seen by anyone since Adam and Eve sinned. Even Moses, the great lawgiver who went up on the mountain to meet with God, had only been able to see God from the back (Exodus 33:20).

When we are in heaven, however, God’s people will see him face-to-face (1 John 3:2). The ability to see God’s face suggests an intimate personal relationship. In addition, God’s people will have his name written on their foreheads. This points out God’s ownership. God’s people had been “sealed” by the Spirit (Rev. 7:3), and this seal previously had been described as being in the form of the Father’s name (Rev.14:1). The point is that this is the same group—God will bring his own safely to his eternal Kingdom. (Rev. 22:5)

The point that there will be no night was noted in Rev. 21:25. This indicates that there will be no more evil, no more darkness, and no more time (for God had created day and night, along with the sun and the moon, to mark the passage of time—Genesis 1:14–15). The people in the city will not need lamps or sun, for the Lord God will shine on them, as was also noted in Rev. 21:23.

The entire book of Revelation culminates in this verse: God’s people, those who have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus, will reign forever and ever (see also Daniel 7:18, 28). Eternal life is ours now and forever. (Rev. 22:6) John referred to the angel (as opposed to “an” angel), so this is probably the same angel who had shown him the heavenly city (Rev. 21:9; 22:1). The revelation closes with an angel explaining that what John has written is trustworthy and true. Throughout the ages, God has told his prophets what the future holds, and he did so again in this prophecy to John. Revelation describes what will happen soon (see also Rev. 1:1). The word “soon” means imminent and implies certainty.

Revelation 22:7-8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14, 15-16, 17-18, 19–21 declares that Jesus is indeed coming! These verses form the epilogue to the book of Christ’s Revelation to his church. An angel attested to the prophecy’s authenticity, and at the very end, Jesus warned that the end would indeed come soon. Rev. 22:7 From Jesus himself come the words of assurance: “Look, I am coming soon!” The word “soon” (taxu) means that his coming will be quick and without delay. It may not be “soon” by human standards (after all, John wrote this two thousand years ago), but it is certain to occur; it is imminent.

Jesus clearly told his followers, “So be prepared, because you don’t know what day your Lord is coming. You also must be ready all the time. For the Son of Man will come when least expected” (Matthew 24:42, 44). Then follows the sixth of seven beatitudes in the book: “Blessed are those who obey the prophecy written in this scroll.” The other beatitudes are found in Rev. 1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:14.1 Like the beatitude at 1:3, the ones listed here promise a blessing to those who obey God by heeding the warnings of this prophecy.

1 Bruce Barton, Life Application New Testament Commentary (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale, 2001), 1271–1272.

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Why does God allow so many of his children to be poor?

Why does God allow so many of his children to be poor? He could make them all rich if he pleased; he could lay bags of gold at their doors; he could send them a large annual income; or he could scatter round their houses an abundance of provisions, as once he made the quails lie in heaps round the camp of Israel, and rained bread out of heaven to feed them. There is no necessity that they should be poor, except that he sees it to be best. “The cattle upon a thousand hills are his”—he could supply them; he could make the richest, the greatest, and the mightiest bring all their power and riches to the feet of his children, for the hearts of all men are in his control. But he does not choose to do so; he allows them to suffer want, he allows them to pine in penury and obscurity. Why is this? There are many reasons: one is to give us, who are favoured with enough, an opportunity of showing our love to Jesus.

We show our love to Christ when we sing of him and when we pray to him; but if there were no sons of need in the world we should lose the sweet privilege of evidencing our love, by ministering in alms-giving to his poorer brethren; he has ordained that thus we should prove that our love standeth not in word only, but in deed and in truth. If we truly love Christ, we shall care for those who are loved by him. Those who are dear to him will be dear to us. Let us then look upon it not as a duty but as a privilege to relieve the poor of the Lord’s flock—remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Surely this assurance is sweet enough, and this motive strong enough to lead us to help others with a willing hand and a loving heart—recollecting that all we do for his people is graciously accepted by Christ as done to himself.

Spurgeon, C. H. 1896. Morning and Evening: Daily Readings. London: Passmore & Alabaster.
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Are we heading to Armegeddon?

In the current geopolitical climate of 2026, many biblical scholars and cultural analysts point to a “perfect storm” of converging threats. From a theological perspective, these are often viewed as precursors to the Battle of Armageddon and the Second Advent of Christ. Jesus stated that it is important that we heed the warnings prior to his Second Advent — his return to earth to set up his kingdom: And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place you may believe. (John 14:29; see also Revelation 1:19)

The Lord is sovereign over all creation and reveals the future through prophecy. (2 Peter 1:21, 2 Timothy 3:16a; Isaiah 45:21, 22; 42:9 NIV)

Below, we assess the primary threats that may be leading up to Armageddon.

1. Global Geopolitical Threats (2025–2026)

The current landscape is marked by what many call a “tri-directional” hostility toward the West and Israel.

Anti-Israel Threats

  • The Iran-Israel War (2026): Following years of tension, the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes (Operations Epic Fury and Roaring Lion) against Iranian nuclear and military infrastructure in February 2026. This has triggered retaliatory missile barrages across the Levant and the Gulf.
    • Note: The Levant is a historical geographical region along the eastern Mediterranean coast, encompassing modern-day Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, and Jordan, historically known for its role as a cultural bridge. The Gulf typically refers to the countries surrounding the Persian Gulf—mainly Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain—economically driven by oil.
  • Proxy Escalation: Iran’s “Ring of Fire”—Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and various militias in Iraq—has intensified its focus on Israel’s borders, aiming to overwhelm Israel’s defence systems.

Anti-USA and Anti-Christian Threats

  • Targeting of Western Institutions: Intelligence reports in early 2026 indicate a surge in threats against Jewish and Christian institutions in Michigan, California, and Europe as a “backlash” to Western support for Israel.
  • Global Jihadist Resurgence: While weakened in some areas, Al-Qaeda and ISIS franchises in the Sahel and Africa have exploited regional instability to build “shadow governments,” explicitly calling for the destruction of Christians and the Zionist-American alliance.

2. Ideological Insights

Many theologians argue that the modern conflict is not merely political but deeply rooted in a spiritual and ideological struggle for Western civilization.

The Spiritual Battlefield

The current rise in antisemitism and anti-Christian sentiment is a direct fulfillment of end-times prophecy.

  • The “Unholy Alliance”: The convergence of the “Radical Left” and “Radical Islam,” noting that despite their different goals, they share a common enemy: Judeo-Christian values.
  • Prophetic Urgency: Middle Eastern wars connect to the Gog and Magog alliance (Ezekiel 38–39), suggesting that the weakening of U.S. influence and the isolation of Israel are necessary steps toward the final battle of Armageddon.
  • Spiritual Deception: The “spirit of the age” is one of deception, where radicalization is occurring through digital means, targeting the youth to reject their Christian heritage.

The Clash of Civilizations

Ayaan Hirsi Ali is a former critic of religion who recently converted to Christianity. Hirsi Ali provides a unique perspective on the “ideals” of radicalization.

  • Foundational Christianity: She argues that Western values (individual rights, freedom of speech) are inseparable from Christianity. Without this foundation, she warns, the West is vulnerable to “wokeism” and “Islamism.”
  • The Root of Antisemitism: Hirsi Ali highlights that radicalization often starts with the dehumanization of Jews, which she experienced firsthand during her upbringing in Iran. She describes this not as a fringe view but as a pervasive ideological “poison” in many radical circles that eventually expands to target all non-believers.
  • Islamism vs. Islam: She distinguishes between the faith and the political ideology (Islamism), which seeks to replace democratic law with Sharia, viewing the U.S. and Israel as the primary obstacles to this global goal.

3. The Road to Armageddon

Biblically, the Battle of Armageddon (Revelation 16:16) is the final gathering of the “kings of the world” against the forces of God.

Prophetic Sign
Current Global Parallel (2026)
Wars and Rumours of Wars The 2026 U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict and escalating civil wars in the Sahel.
Global Hostility to Israel Increasing diplomatic and military isolation of Israel in international forums.
Gospel Preached to All Nations Rapid digital expansion of Christian outreach despite persecution.
Antisemitism A mainstreaming of anti-Jewish rhetoric across the political spectrum.

The Biblical Perspective

According to Revelation, the kings of the East and the world will be drawn to the Plain of Megiddo for a final confrontation. Scholars emphasize that while these events are sobering, they are “birth pangs” leading to the Second Advent, where Jesus Christ returns to establish His kingdom.

In 2026, the convergence of military conflicts and ideological shifts has brought the “Ezekiel 38 Alliance”—often called the Gog and Magog coalition—into sharp focus for biblical scholars and cultural observers.

The current landscape reflects a transition from “rumours of war” to direct, large-scale confrontation.

1. The Ezekiel 38 Alliance (2026 Modern Equivalents)

The prophecy in Ezekiel 38 describes a massive multi-nation coalition that descends upon Israel “from the far north” and surrounding regions. Here is how current 2026 alliances align with these ancient names:

Ancient Name Modern Nation (2026 Status) Role in Current Conflict
Magog / Rosh Russia Acting as the “guard” or co-ordinator, currently providing intelligence and diplomatic cover for Iran following the Feb 2026 strikes.
Persia Iran The primary ideological driver is currently in active conflict with Israel and the U.S. (Operations Epic Fury).
Meshech / Tubal Turkey Geopolitically shifting, under President Erdoğan, Turkey has pivoted toward an Islamist-nationalist stance, often hostile to Israeli interests.
Cush / Put Sudan / Libya Hotbeds of radicalization; both nations are currently flooded with foreign arms and are sites of proxy battles against Western influence.
Gomer / Togarmah Central Asia / Turkic Peoples The “Stan” countries (Kazakhstan, etc.) and parts of the Caucasus are increasingly aligned with the Russo-Iranian axis.

 2. The “Fireball” Theology

The current war with Iran (Persia) is unique because of its theological motivation, as per several key developments:

  • The “Mahdi” Motivation: Radical elements in the Iranian leadership are not seeking a “win” in the conventional sense. They believe that by creating a global “fireball” (cataclysmic chaos), they can hasten the arrival of their Islamic messiah, the Mahdi. This makes traditional deterrence difficult.
  • The “Break the Bow of Elam”: Highlighted in Jeremiah 49:34-35; 36, 37; 38-39, God promised to “break the bow of Elam” (ancient western Iran). The 2026 strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and the death of key leaders may be a precursor to the scattering of the current regime, allowing the Iranian people—many of whom have secretly turned to Christianity—to be “brought back” in the latter days.
  • The Transition to Peace: A key prerequisite for the Ezekiel 38 war is Israel dwelling in “unwalled villages” or a state of perceived peace (Ezek. 38:11). Consider that if the current Iranian regime collapses, a temporary, deceptive peace might emerge, setting the stage for the final invasion.

3. The Ideological Convergence

Ayaan Hirsi Ali provides the “civilizational” context for this radicalization. Her recent work focuses on the unholy alliance between Western radical movements and Islamist ideologies:

  • Anti-Semitism as a Foundation: She argues that anti-Semitism is not a secondary byproduct but the “foundational principle” of radical Islamism. It serves as the unifying “glue” for various anti-Western groups.
  • Current Radical Islamist Protests:
  • Pro-Palestine & Pro-Iran Rallies:  Tensions surrounding the U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran have sparked a wave of Islamist-linked and pro-Palestinian demonstrations across Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
    • Canada: The most prominent event was the Al-Quds Day rally in Toronto on March 14, 2026, drawing approximately 4,500 people outside the U.S. Consulate. Ontario Premier Doug Ford attempted — and failed — to obtain a court injunction against it, calling it “a breeding ground for hate and antisemitism.” Two counter-protesters were arrested. In Montreal, the Islamist group MT4Palestine held a street prayer event where a speaker issued a call to jihad. In Vancouver, a prior Samidoun-organized rally — linked to the PFLP terrorist organization — featured chants endorsing both Hezbollah and Hamas, with some protesters burning Canadian flags.
    • United Kingdom: London saw over 50,000 people march in “Hands Off Iran” and Al-Quds Day protests organized by groups including the Muslim Association of Britain, Stop The War, and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign. Four people were arrested on charges including inciting racial hatred and possession of an offensive weapon. The Metropolitan Police imposed conditions on both pro-Iranian and counter-protest groups to prevent clashes. Separately, Palestine Action — now a proscribed terrorist organization — drew support from both Shia and Sunni radical factions before its ban following a breach of RAF Brize Norton in June 2025.
    • United States: Coordinated “Hands Off Iran” demonstrations took place in over a dozen cities, including Washington D.C., New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Organizers included American Muslims for Palestine and the National Iranian American Council — the latter widely regarded as a lobby for the Islamic Republic of Iran.
    • Note: Security agencies across all three countries are actively monitoring organizer networks and funding sources. Not all pro-Palestinian protesters are Islamists; protests range from civil-liberties demonstrations to events with radical elements.
  • The Dumbing Down of the West: Hirsi Ali warns that the West’s current “crisis of faith” has left it unable to defend its own values. She posits that as the U.S. and Europe distance themselves from their Judeo-Christian roots, they become more susceptible to radical ideologies that fill that spiritual vacuum. In the USA and Canada, recall the universities that sided with Hamas regarding the October 7 attack on Israel, which initiated the ongoing war that occurred in 2023.
  • The Magnitude of the Radical Islamist Attack: The October 7, 2023, attack was a massive, coordinated terrorist assault on southern Israel led by Hamas from the Gaza Strip, involving rocket fire and infiltration by militants. It is considered the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust, killing over 1,200 people—mostly civilians—and involved the abduction of approximately 250 individuals as hostages.
    • Total Killed: More than 1,200 people were killed in the attack.
    • Americans Killed: At least 46 U.S. citizens were murdered in the attacks, according to the U.S. State Department.
    • Hostages Taken: Approximately 250–254 hostages were seized and taken into Gaza, including men, women, children, and elderly people.
    • American Hostages: According to the U.S. State Department, 12 Americans were among those taken hostage.

The attack resulted in widespread brutality, including sexual violence and torture, prompting Israel to declare war with the goal of dismantling Hamas and rescuing the hostages. 

4. Current Radicalization and the Battle of Armageddon

As we move toward the prophetic “end of the age,” radicalization has shifted from physical territory (like the ISIS caliphate) to a global digital insurgency.

  • Anti-Christian Persecution: In 2026, we see a “pincer movement” against Christianity: state-sponsored suppression in the East and cultural marginalization in the West.
  • The “Kings of the East”: Looking further ahead toward Armageddon (Revelation 16), scholars point to the rising 200-million-man army. In 2026, the strategic “No Limits” partnership between Russia, China, and Iran is viewed as the logistical infrastructure for this future force.
  • The Valley of Decision: The physical site of Armageddon—the Plain of Megiddo—is strategically located near the very airbases and corridors currently active in the 2026 Israel-Iran conflict.

Note: For believers, these “signs” are not intended to cause fear, but to serve as a “blessed hope” (Titus 2:13), signalling that the return of Jesus Christ is approaching to restore justice and peace.

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Soul-level Friendships with Believers

In Reformed and Evangelical theology, the question of “friendship” is often split between common grace (kindness toward all) and special grace (the spiritual union between believers).

While few theologians argue for total isolation from non-believers, many emphasize that “soul-level” friendship (man/man, woman/woman) should be reserved for those who are born again, and “intimate” friendships (man/woman) for married couples only.

1. John MacArthur: The Principle of Separation

John MacArthur’s view, while he was with us, was heavily rooted in the concept of sanctification and the warning against “unequally yoked” (2 Corinthians 6:14). Though this text primarily is applied to marriage, it can also be applied to all non-marital friendships. John was one of the most beloved and respected preachers who started the Master’s Academy.

  • Influence of Character: MacArthur frequently taught that since the goal of the Christian life is Christ-likeness, your closest associates must share that goal. He often cites 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Bad company corrupts good morals.”
  • Theological Value: For MacArthur, the value of born-again friendships lies in their protective role. John taught that a believer’s primary mission is holiness; worldly friendships are seen as a potential “drag” on one’s spiritual trajectory. He viewed friendship as an influence loop in which you either become like your friends or they become like you.

2. Joel Beeke: The Experiential Perspective

As a leading voice in Puritan and Reformed studies, Joel Beeke focuses on Experiential Christianity. This is the idea that theology isn’t just in the head, but felt in the heart.

  • Communion of Saints: Beeke emphasizes the Heidelberg Catechism’s view on the “communion of saints.” He argues that true friendship requires a shared “spiritual language.”
  • Theological Value: The value here is mutual edification. To Beeke, a friend who is not born again cannot “watch over your soul.” He advocates “holy fellowships” in which friends hold each other accountable for experimental godliness. Without a shared rebirth, the deepest part of your identity remains a mystery to your friend.

3. General Reformed Theology: Two Kingdoms and Covenant

Broader Reformed theology (from Calvin to modern thinkers) looks at this through the lens of Covenantal Life.

  • The Corporate Identity: In the Reformed tradition, the “born again” individual is part of the Body of Christ. Therefore, friendships within the church are seen as an extension of the family of God.
  • Common Grace vs. Special Grace: Reformed theologians often acknowledge “Common Grace” friendships—shared interests in work, art, or hobbies with non-believers. However, they distinguish these from “Special Grace” friendships, which are centred on the Gospel.

Comparative Table: Friendship Priorities

Theologian/Group Primary Focus View Friends
John MacArthur Sanctification & Purity Non-believers are evangelistic “mission fields” rather than intimate peers.
Joel Beeke Spiritual Fellowship Born-again friends are necessary for “soul-work” and mutual accountability.
Reformed Tradition Covenantal Unity Born-again friends are valued for building the “Kingdom of God” and the local church.

The Theological Core: “The Third Party”

The underlying theological value across these views is that a Christian friendship is not a duo, but a triangle with the inclusion of Christ and His Spirit mediating the relationship.

In this model, the “born again” status is valuable because it allows God to mediate the friendship. If one person does not know God, the triangle is broken, and the friendship is limited to the horizontal, temporal plane (interests, humour, history), which can introduce the dark side rather than the vertical, eternal plane (grace, conviction, sanctification, holiness, prayer).

Summary: The theological value is not about being “elitist,” but about spiritual synergy. If the Holy Spirit lives in both friends, the friendship becomes a means of grace that helps both parties reach heaven.

Part 2: Caution of Men and Women interacting outside of marriage

Further Study:

  • Baxter: Richard Baxter, A Christian Directory (London: Robert White, 1673), Part II, Chap. X, 563.
  • Beeke: Joel R. Beeke, Living for God’s Glory: An Introduction to the Reformed Faith (Lake Mary, FL: Reformation Trust Publishing, 2008), 324-326.
  • Owen: John Owen, The Works of John Owen, ed. William H. Goold, vol. 13 (Edinburgh: T&T Clark, 1850), 45-47.

 

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End Times: Revelation Judgments

Here is a list of the Judgements of God as we look at the final periods of the end times when the second advent of Jesus Christ will occur. Note: You can hover over scripture, and it will pop up to read.

Revelation Judgments & Key Pauline Parallels

Revelation Short summary of judgment Key Paul text to read alongside
6:1–2  Seal 1 White horse; deceptive conqueror, Antichrist, false peace. 2 Thess 2:3–10 – man of lawlessness, satanic deception.
6:3–4  Seal 2 Red horse; peace removed, widespread war and killing. 2 Tim 3:1–4; Romans 1:29–31 – violent, ruthless last‑days humanity.
6:5–6  Seal 3 Black horse; famine and harsh economic inequality. 2 Tim 3:2; Romans 2:5–6 – greed and stored‑up wrath.
6:7–8  Seal 4 Pale horse; death by war, famine, plague, wild beasts. Romans 1:18–28 – God “gives them over,” the consequences of sin.
6:9–11  Seal 5 Martyrs cry out for justice; persecuted saints. 2 Tim 3:12; 1 Timothy 4:1 – persecution and apostasy.
6:12–17 Seal 6 Great earthquake, cosmic signs; people recognize God’s wrath. Romans 1:18; 2 Thess 1:7–10 – revealed wrath and judgment.
8:1–5  Seal 7 Silence in heaven; prayers and preparation for trumpets. Romans 2:5–6 – storing up wrath for the day of wrath.

 

Revelation Short summary of judgment Key Paul text to read alongside
8:7 Trumpet 1 Vegetation struck; a third of the earth and trees burned. Romans 8:19–22 – creation groaning under corruption.
8:8–9 Trumpet 2 Sea struck; a third becomes blood, ships destroyed. Romans 1:25 – worshiping creation, judged through creation.
8:10–11 Trumpet 3 Wormwood; a third of the fresh water is poisoned. Romans 1:18–28 – wrath revealed in life‑essential realms.
8:12–13 Trumpet 4 A third of the sun, moon, and stars darkened. Romans 13:11–12 – night far spent, the day at hand.
9:1–12 Trumpet 5 Demonic “locusts”; torment, not death (first woe). 1 Tim 4:1; 2 Thess 2:9–10 – deceiving spirits, demonic activity.
9:13–21 Trumpet 6 Demonic cavalry; a third of humanity killed (second woe). Romans 1:32; 2 Thess 2:11–12 – hardened, deluded rebels.
11:15–19 Trumpet 7 Kingdom proclaimed; time to judge and reward. Romans 2:5–11; 2 Thess 1:5–10 – righteous judgment and repayment.

 

Revelation Short summary of judgment Key Paul text to read alongside
16:1–2 Bowl 1 Painful sores on those with the beast’s mark. Romans 1:24–27; 2 Thess 2:10–12 – bodily consequences, believing the lie.
16:3 Bowl 2 Sea becomes blood; all sea life dies. Romans 8:21–22 – creation’s bondage climaxing before liberation.
16:4–7 Bowl 3 Rivers and springs become blood; just retribution. Romans 2:5–6; 2 Thess 1:6 – God repays persecutors.
16:8–9 Bowl 4 Sun scorches; people blaspheme, do not repent. Romans 2:4–5 – despising God’s kindness; impenitent hearts.
16:10–11 Bowl 5 Darkness on the beast’s kingdom; pain and blasphemy. 2 Thess 2:11–12; 2 Timothy 3:13 – strong delusion, worsening evil.
16:12–16 Bowl 6 Euphrates dried; kings gathered to Armageddon. 2 Thess 2:9–10; Romans 11:25–26 – satanic deception; crisis before Israel’s salvation.
16:17–21 Bowl 7 “It is done”; earthquake, Babylon falls, massive hail. Romans 2:16; 1 Corinthians 3:13 – the Day reveals and judges all.

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Book Review: The Divine Conspiracy

Define the teachings of The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard. 

Dallas Willard (1935-2013) was a rarity. A Southern Baptist minister, Willard’s work carefully navigated the oft-contentious space between church life and academic rigour. Most certainly, Willard’s philosophical career at one of America’s foremost research institutions brought him accolades and attention worldwide. There are many adherents to Dallas Willard’s teachings in The Divine Conspiracy.  He argues that Jesus’ central message is the present availability of the kingdom of God and that authentic Christianity is apprenticing ourselves to Jesus to live in that kingdom now, not merely securing post‑mortem forgiveness.[1][2][3]

Core Thesis and Big Idea

  • Willard defines God’s kingdom as “the range of his effective will, where what he wants done is done,” emphasizing that this kingdom is concretely available “among us” in ordinary life.[2][1]
  • Jesus’ gospel is not mainly “how to go to heaven when you die” but the announcement that life in God’s effective rule is now accessible to anyone who trusts and follows Jesus.[4][5][2]
  • Discipleship—actually learning to do what Jesus said from within his power—is presented as the heart of the gospel rather than an optional add‑on for advanced Christians.[6][3]

Problem: Truncated Gospels and “Sin Management”

Willard contends that the church commonly preaches what he calls “gospels of sin management,” which miss Jesus’ actual message.[3][4]

  • On the “right,” the gospel is reduced to guilt, forgiveness, and going to heaven, with little expectation that character or daily life will be transformed.[4][3]
  • On the “left,” the gospel becomes social or political action, with minimal emphasis on inner renovation through union with Christ.[5][1]
  • In both cases, people are told they can “trust Christ for forgiveness” while living essentially the same way as everyone else, leaving “the resources of God’s kingdom detached from human life.”[1][4]

Illustration: Willard likens this to being offered only a “sin management plan” instead of being invited into a new kind of life with Jesus as a real, present master of reality.[3][4]

The Kingdom of God as Present Reality

For Willard, Jesus’ talk about “the kingdom of the heavens” is realistic metaphysics, not religious poetry.[6][2][5]

  • A kingdom is any “range of effective will”; each person has a small kingdom (their body, decisions, sphere of influence), and God has his own limitless kingdom.[2]
  • The kingdom is not primarily a social program or just “in the heart,” but God’s active governance that can invade individual hearts and social structures where he is trusted and obeyed.[5]
  • Jesus does not so much “create” the kingdom as unveil that God’s rule is already at hand and invite people to step into it through confidence in him.[2][5]

In practice, this means that eternal life starts now as our small kingdom is re‑integrated into God’s larger one so that what God and we do together becomes part of God’s “eternal history.”[1][2]

Re‑reading the Sermon on the Mount

A large portion of the book reinterprets the Sermon on the Mount as a realistic description of kingdom life rather than an impossible ideal.[6][5][3]

The Beatitudes

  • The Beatitudes are read as Jesus’ shocking proclamation that the kingdom is now available even to those considered hopeless or cursed by the religious culture.[7][4][1]
  • “Blessed are the poor in spirit,” the persecuted, the marginalized, and the moral failures, not because their condition is good, but because they too can “flee into the arms of the Kingdom Among Us.”[1]
  • Willard stresses that Jesus is reversing the human “pecking order”; the Beatitudes are a concrete instance of the “two‑kingdom inversion” or “upside‑down kingdom.”[7][1]

Kingdom Righteousness

Willard distinguishes between external conformity and inner renovation.[5][6]

  • Jesus exposes anger, contempt, and lust as heart‑conditions that generate outward sins; kingdom life deals with these roots rather than managing visible behavior.[6]
  • Commands like loving enemies, turning the other cheek, and laying down anxiety are portrayals of what a person becomes as they are progressively formed in God’s love and power.[5][6]
  • The Sermon culminates in “hearing and doing” Jesus’ words, which Jesus describes as building one’s life on rock rather than sand.[3][1]

Discipleship as Apprenticeship to Jesus

Willard insists that discipleship is simply being an apprentice of Jesus in all of life.[8][3][6]

  • A disciple is someone who has decided to be constantly with Jesus to learn from him how to live their actual life (work, family, body, relationships) as he would live it.[8][6]
  • The “cost of discipleship” is set alongside the “cost of non‑discipleship”: failing to become a disciple often costs more in wasted lives, addictions, relational breakdown, and spiritual emptiness.[7][8]
  • Willard outlines “areas of discipleship” in which Jesus trains apprentices—such as understanding reality (ontology), re‑ordering desires, and participating in God’s work in the world.[8][7]

He argues the church must recover the expectation that every Christian is in a serious learning process under Jesus, not just passively consuming religious services.[3][1]

Spiritual Formation and Inner Transformation

The book moves from diagnosis and theology into a vision of concrete spiritual formation.[8][6]

  • Transformation is about becoming the kind of person who naturally does what Jesus says, so that commands like 1 Corinthians 13‑style love describe who we actually are, not what we strain to pretend.[1][8]
  • Practices such as solitude, prayer, Scripture meditation, fellowship, and service are portrayed as means of grace by which the Holy Spirit reshapes the heart, not as merit‑earning disciplines.[8]
  • Willard emphasizes that spirituality must be informed by a truthful view of reality (ontology); “belief is designed to integrate my action with reality,” so distorted pictures of God or the world sabotage formation.[7][5]

Over time, the effects of a person’s presence, words, and actions become “of a nature and extent that cannot be explained in human terms,” because their life participates in God’s ongoing action.[1]

Co‑laborers in the “Divine Conspiracy”

The “divine conspiracy” is Willard’s metaphor for God’s quiet, pervasive strategy to overcome evil with good through ordinary people living in his kingdom.[2][1]

  • God intends humans to exercise their small “rule” only in union with his, so that every domain of life (work, politics, family, culture) becomes a site of collaborative creativity with God.[2][1]
  • Christians are called to be “co‑conspirators,” embedded in the ordinary structures of the world as agents of the kingdom, rather than retreating into religious enclaves.[1]
  • Jesus’ church is portrayed as the ongoing “incarnation” of his life in a “motley but glorious crew of called‑out ones,” with Jesus as present Lord over history, matter, and the smallest particles of the universe.[1]

This makes vocation and daily life central to Christian mission: what we do in our jobs, neighbourhoods, and families is meant to become joint action with God inside his ongoing work.[2][1]

View of God, Christ, and Love

Willard anchors his program in a particular vision of God and Jesus.[5][2][1]

  • God’s universe is described as “a community of boundless and totally competent love,” in which God desires that we “live in him” and sends Jesus as the Way into that life.[1]
  • The cross is emphasized as the definitive disclosure of God’s heart, showing that God is willing to die to reach even those who hate him.[1]
  • Jesus is portrayed not just as saviour but as the smartest and most competent person in existence, Lord over “atoms, particles, quarks, ‘strings,’ and so forth.”[2][1]

In John 14–16 Jesus gives the “all‑inclusive commandment” to love one another as he loved us, including laying down our lives, and calls those who keep this command his friends; Willard sees this mutual love as the organizing principle of kingdom community.[1]

Takeaways

A summary of actionable implications:[6][3][8][1]

  • Redefine the mission: shift from “sin management” to forming disciples who actually live from the present kingdom of God in their real contexts.
  • Clarify message: present the gospel as “the availability of life in the kingdom with Jesus now,” with forgiveness, transformation, and vocation all integrated.
  • Reframe formation: treat spiritual disciplines as a structured training regimen under Jesus’ supervision, aimed at inner renovation that produces Sermon‑on‑the‑Mount character.
  • Recast leadership: see pastors and leaders as trainers of apprentices, not primarily event managers or religious service providers.
  • Reintegrate life spheres: help people view work, family, citizenship, and culture‑making as arenas where they co‑labor with God in the divine conspiracy.

A simple way to express the book’s teaching: learn to live your actual life, in Toronto or anywhere else, as Jesus would live it if he had your job, your body, and your relationships, because the kingdom of God is already available to you in all of those situations.[5][2]
⁂

  1. https://theimaginativeconservative.org/2023/05/the-divine-conspiracy-of-dallas-willard.html
  2. https://kylestrobel.substack.com/p/dallas-willard-and-the-kingdom-of
  3. https://thoughtsfrommyreformedself.wordpress.com/2012/01/13/the-divine-conspiracy-by-dallas-willard-a-chapter-by-chapter-review-introduction/
  4. https://meshachkanyion.substack.com/p/the-divine-conspiracy-by-dallas-willard-514
  5. https://mwerickson.com/2023/06/23/dallas-willard-on-the-kingdom-of-god-insights-on-what-it-is-and-how-god-rules-2/
  6. https://www.dlwebster.com/book-review-the-divine-conspiracy/
  7. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OLbbceqUu8
  8. https://dwillard.org/resources/expanding-books/divine-conspiracy-study-guide
  9. https://www.jesuscollege.com/dallaswillard-thedivineconspiracy
  10. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYQPF7_-lIQ
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New Age Ideologies in Conflict with God

Here is a breakdown of many New Age ideologies and practices that are often cited as being in conflict with Scripture.

1. Core Ideologies (The “Why”)

These are the foundational beliefs that underpin most New Age actions.

  • Pantheism & Panentheism: The belief that “All is God” or that God is a “force” within everything. This contradicts the biblical view of a transcendent Creator who is distinct from His creation (Romans 1:25).

  • Self-Divinity: The idea that humans are “gods” or “divine beings” who have simply forgotten their power. This mimics the original deception in Genesis 3:5.

  • Relativism: The belief that there is no absolute truth and that everyone “creates their own reality.” This opposes Jesus’ claim in John 14:6 (“I am the way, the truth, and the life”).

  • Universalism: The idea that all paths lead to the same destination/God. Scripture teaches a “narrow gate” (Matthew 7:13-14).

2. Divination & Seeking Hidden Knowledge

Practices used to predict the future or gain “secret” information without the Holy Spirit. These are explicitly forbidden in Deuteronomy 18:10-12.

  • Astrology: Looking to the stars and planets for guidance or to determine personality/destiny, rather than looking to the Maker of the stars.

  • Tarot Cards & Oracle Cards: Using randomized tools to “read” energy or predict outcomes.

  • Mediumship/Channeling: Attempting to communicate with the dead or “spirit guides.” Scripture identifies these “guides” as familiar spirits or demons (Leviticus 19:31).

  • Numerology: Assigning divine or mystical significance to numbers to navigate life.

3. Manifestation & Manipulation

The attempt to control one’s circumstances through spiritual “laws” or mental techniques.

  • Law of Attraction (LOA): The belief that thoughts have magnetic power to bring “good” or “bad” into life. This replaces Divine Sovereignty with human mental effort.

  • Visualization for Creation: Using the mind to “force” a reality into existence. In Christianity, we pray and submit to God’s will; we do not “visualize” to command the spiritual realm.

  • Affirmations (Self-Directed): Using “I am” statements to declare oneself as the source of power, rather than declaring who God is (e.g., “I am the architect of my life” vs. “God is the author and finisher of my faith”).

4. “Energy” Healing & Occult Anatomy

Practices based on the idea of a “vital life force” (Prana, Chi, Qi) that must be balanced.

  • Reiki: “Universal life energy” channeled through a practitioner’s hands. Biblically, healing comes through the power of Jesus, not an impersonal force.

  • Chakra Balancing: The belief in seven energy centers in the body. This is rooted in Hindu metaphysics, which attributes spiritual health to energy flow rather than the condition of the soul before God.

  • Crystal Healing: Attributing power or “vibrational properties” to stones to heal or protect. This is a form of animism (giving spirits/power to inanimate objects).

5. Altered States of Consciousness

Methods used to bypass the “conscious mind” to reach “higher dimensions.”

  • Transcendental/Empty-Mind Meditation: The goal of “emptying the mind” to reach enlightenment. Biblical meditation is the opposite: filling the mind with the Word of God (Psalm 1:2).

  • Astral Projection: Attempting to leave the body to travel in the spirit realm.

  • Psychedelics (Entheogens): Using drugs (Ayahuasca, mushrooms) to achieve spiritual “breakthroughs.” Scripture warns against pharmakeia (often translated as sorcery or magic potions).

The Biblical Litmus Test

If you are wondering if a practice is “ungodly,” ask these three questions:

  1. Who gets the glory? (If it’s “Me” or “The Universe,” it’s not biblical.)

  2. What is the source of power? (If it’s an impersonal “energy” or “vibration,” it’s not the Holy Spirit.)

  3. What is the final authority? (If it’s my intuition or a deck of cards rather than the Bible, it’s a “Trojan Horse.”)

“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God…” (1 John 4:1)

Are there specific practices you’ve encountered in a business or church context that you’re trying to evaluate?