Tag Archives: devotion

Uncategorized

Will Christ’s church be raptured?

The relationship between the teachings of Jesus and the writings of the Apostle Paul regarding the “Rapture” is a central theme in Christian eschatology. While the specific word rapture does not appear in the original Greek of the New Testament (it comes from the Latin rapiemur), both Jesus and Paul describe a definitive moment where believers are gathered to meet the Lord.

Their teachings align on several key pillars: suddenness, divine gathering, and the requirement of readiness.

1. The Divine Gathering

Both Jesus and Paul speak of a supernatural assembly of believers initiated by a heavenly signal.

  • Jesus: In the Olivet Discourse, Jesus describes the Son of Man coming on the clouds.” And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.” (Matthew 24:31)
  • Paul: Paul uses nearly identical imagery when describing the “catching up” of the church. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command… and with the trumpet call of God… we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17)

2. The Element of Surprise: The “Thief in the Night”

One of the strongest linguistic and conceptual links between Jesus and Paul is the metaphor of a thief. They both emphasize that the timing of this event is unknowable and will catch the world off guard.

  • Jesus: “But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch…” (Matthew 24:43).
  • Paul: “For you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.” (1 Thessalonians 5:2).

3. The Concept of “One Taken, One Left.”

Jesus provided a vivid illustration of the selective nature of this gathering, which aligns with Paul’s teaching that this event specifically concerns “those who are in Christ.”

  • Jesus: He describes everyday scenarios—men in a field or women grinding grain—where “one will be taken and the other left” (Matthew 24:40–41).
  • Paul: He clarifies that this “taking” involves a physical transformation. He explains that “we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye” (1 Corinthians 15:51–52).

4. Summary Alignment Table

Feature Jesus (Gospels) Paul (Epistles)
The Signal A loud trumpet call The trumpet of God
The Agent The Son of Man / Angels The Lord Himself
The Action Gathering the elect Caught up (Harpazo)
The Timing Unknown; like a thief Suddenly, like a thief
The Location From the earth to the clouds Meeting in the air

5. The Moral Objective: Watchfulness

The ultimate alignment between Jesus and Paul is not just about the mechanics of the event, but the intended result for the believer.

Jesus taught, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” (Matthew 24:42). Paul echoes this moral imperative, telling believers they are “children of the light” and should therefore “not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6).

Both emphasize that the doctrine of the gathering is meant to produce hope and holiness, rather than just a timeline for the future.

Uncategorized

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

Uncategorized

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

Uncategorized

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.

Uncategorized

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.

Uncategorized

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.

 

Uncategorized

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.

Uncategorized

Book Review: Offence – The Bait of Satan

Twenty-five years ago, I read John Bevere’s book, The Bait of Satan, after hearing him speak in St. Catherines, Ontario. Here, I analyze John’s teaching on how taking offence at another person can affect your spiritual life in Christ. As we delve into John’s teaching, we will cite scriptures to support his thesis. Note: When you come to a scripture, hover over it, and it will pop up for reading.

John Bevere is an American evangelist, international speaker, and bestselling author known for his bold and Scripture-centred approach to Christian ministry. He is the co-founder of Messenger International, a global discipleship organization established in 1990 alongside his wife, Lisa Bevere.

The central metaphor of his book is the Greek word skandalon, which refers to the part of a trap where the bait is placed. Bevere argues that offence is the “bait” the enemy uses to lure believers into a state of spiritual captivity. 1

Core Principles of the Teaching

Let’s examine the anatomy of offence through several key concepts:

  • The Trap of Offence: Offence is not just an emotional hurt; it is a calculated trap. When we harbour offence, we are the ones who end up in a cage, even if we feel our anger is “justified.”
  • Two Types of Offended People:
    1. Those who have been treated unjustly.
    2. Those who believe they have been treated unjustly (misunderstandings). Bevere notes that in both cases, the spiritual danger is the same.
  • The Wall of Protection: He teaches that offence creates a “wall” between the individual and God. It blocks spiritual growth, stifles prayer, and prevents the person from fulfilling their purpose.
  • The Fruit of Offence: Bevere identifies symptoms like bitterness, resentment, envy, and anger. If left unchecked, these “roots” produce toxic fruit that affects every area of life.

The Remedy: Forgiveness and Humility

  • Relinquishing Rights: True freedom comes when we give up the “right” to seek revenge or hold a grudge. Rather, we begin to see the importance of forgiveness as Jesus taught it in Matthew 6:14-15: For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
  • The Power of Prayer: Instead of talking about those who hurt us, he encourages praying for them, which effectively “breaks the power” of the offence over our hearts.
  • The Role of Trials: God allows us to encounter offensive situations to expose what is hidden in our hearts, using the friction to refine our character.

“Offence is the tool of the devil to bring a believer into captivity… If you stay offended, you will never fulfill your purpose.” — John Bevere

Feature The Life of Offence The Life of Freedom
Perspective Focused on self and past hurts. Focused on God and future purpose.
Relationship Guarded, suspicious, and isolated. Open, trusting, and community-oriented.
Spiritual State Stagnant; prayer feels “blocked.” Growing in grace, characterized by peace.
End Result Bitterness and spiritual decay. Tranquillity, maturity and refinement.

 

In The Bait of Satan, John Bevere outlines a path to freedom that is less about “getting over it” and more about a deep spiritual surgery. He argues that since offence is a trap for your soul, you have to actively dismantle it to get out. 

Here are the specific steps he recommends for finding freedom:

1. Acknowledge the Bait

The first step is often the hardest: admitting you are actually offended. Bevere notes that many people disguise offence as “discernment” or “standing up for truth.”

  • Action: Be brutally honest with yourself and God. Stop justifying your anger based on how “wrong” the other person was.

2. Shift Your Perspective (God’s Sovereignty)

Bevere teaches that nothing can happen to a believer that God cannot use for their growth: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

  • The Mindset: Instead of seeing the person who hurt you as an enemy, see the situation as a “refiner’s fire.” Ask: “What is this situation revealing about the pride or weakness in my own heart?”

3. Relinquish the “Right” to Revenge

True forgiveness, according to Bevere, isn’t a feeling; it’s a decision to release the debt.

  • The Debt Analogy: Imagine the person owes you a moral debt for what they took (your reputation, your time, your joy). You must “cancel the debt” entirely, meaning you no longer look to that person to make it right or apologize.

4. Pray for Your “Enemy.”

This is the practical “acid test” for whether you are truly free.

  • The Command: Based on Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:44, Bevere insists you must pray for the success, well-being, and spiritual growth of the person who offended you.
  • Why it works: It is nearly impossible to remain bitterly offended by someone while sincerely asking God to bless them.

5. Seek Reconciliation (Where Possible)

If the offence involved a personal breach, Bevere encourages taking the initiative to make peace, regardless of who was “more” wrong.

  • Humility First: Approach the person not to point out their sin, but to express your desire for a restored relationship.
  • Note: He acknowledges that while you should always offer forgiveness, reconciliation requires two people. You are only responsible for your side of the bridge.

6. Stay “Under Cover.”

Finally, stay in a position of humility and submission to God. Bevere argues that pride is the armour that offence clings to; if you remain humble, the “bait” has nothing to hook into.

Forgiveness is for your sake, not the other person’s. It releases you from the prison of your own making.” — John Bevere

To help you put these principles into practice, here is a breakdown of the specific scriptures John Bevere uses to anchor this teaching, followed by a prayer of release based on the book’s core message.

Biblical Foundations for Overcoming Offence

Bevere builds the entire “Bait of Satan” message on these key passages. Hover over the scriptures to see them pop up.

  • Matthew 24:10–12: Jesus warns that in the last days, “many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another.” Bevere uses this to show that offence is the enemy’s primary strategy in the end times.
  • Proverbs 18:19: “A brother offended is harder to win than a strong city.” This illustrates how offence creates a “fortress” around a person’s heart, isolating them from others and God.
  • Proverbs 17:9 NAS: “One who conceals an offence seeks love, but one who repeats a matter separates close friends.”
  • 2 Timothy 2:24–26: This passage describes being “gentle to all” so that God may grant repentance to those who have been “taken captive by [the devil] to do his will.” Bevere links this directly to the “trap” (skandalon).
    • Skandalon (σκανδαλον) is a Koine Greek word primarily defined as the bait-trigger, or mechanism of a trap. In the New Testament, it is used metaphorically to describe a “stumbling block — taking an “offence” against any person or thing that causes the offended one to turn away from or miss the guidance of the Holy Spirit, fall into sin, or lose their own joy and peace.
  • Matthew 18:21–35: The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant. This is the scriptural “hammer” Bevere uses to show that if we do not forgive the small debts others owe us, we lose the benefit of the massive debt God has forgiven us.
  • Mark 6:1–4: Here we see how people in Jesus’ hometown became offended at his ministry: “He went away from there and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? How are such mighty works done by his hands? Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offence at him. And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honour, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.”

A Prayer of Release (Based on The Bait of Satan)

If you are currently struggling with a specific hurt, you can use this prayer as a starting point to “drop the bait”:

“Father, I come to You in the name of Jesus. I admit that I have been harbouring offence against [Name]. I have allowed bitterness to take root, and I recognize today that this is a trap for my soul. I choose to stop justifying my anger right now. I release [Name] from the debt I feel they owe me. I cancel that debt completely.

Lord, I ask You to bless [Name]. Soften my heart toward them and replace my resentment with Your love. I thank You for forgiving my many sins, and I choose to extend that same grace today. I refuse to stay in the cage of offence. I am free, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

The Goal: A “Great Escape”

The end goal of these steps isn’t just to feel better—it’s to regain your spiritual authority. Bevere teaches that when you are no longer “bait-able,” the enemy loses his primary hold over your life.

John Bevere applies these principles to specific areas, such as offence within a church or offence toward God Himself.  John Bevere often addresses two specific, high-stakes scenarios where offense is most “deadly”: offense toward God and offense within the Church (often called “Church Hurt”).

Here is how he applies the principles of The Bait of Satan to these areas:

1. Offense Toward God

This is perhaps the most dangerous trap because it causes a person to pull away from their only source of help.

  • The Root: This usually stems from unmet expectations. A prayer wasn’t answered the way we wanted, a tragedy occurred, or God didn’t “show up” when we felt He should have.
  • The Correction: Bevere teaches that we cannot judge God by our circumstances. Instead, we must judge our circumstances by God’s character.
  • The Shift: To be free, you must move from “Why did You let this happen?” to “I trust You even when I don’t understand.”

2. Offense Toward Leadership (Church Hurt)

Bevere is well-known for his teachings on Spiritual Authority. He argues that the enemy loves to use the flaws of leaders to offend believers and isolate them from the body of Christ.

  • The Trap: Focuses on the leader’s mistakes to justify leaving, rebelling, or gossiping.
  • The Perspective: Bevere points out that even if a leader is wrong, our response determines our future. He often uses the example of David and Saul—David refused to “stretch out his hand” against King Saul, despite Saul’s pursuit of him.
  • The Goal: Protect your heart so that you don’t become the very thing that offended you.

Understanding the “Skandalon” (The Trap)

To visualize how this works spiritually, it helps to look at the physical mechanism Bevere refers to. The “bait” is placed on a trigger stick; once the animal touches the bait, the trap snaps shut.

Element of the Trap Spiritual Application
The Bait The hurt, insult, or injustice you experienced.
The Trigger (Skandalon) Your decision to “take” the offense and hold onto it.
The Cage The resulting bitterness that isolates you from God and others.
The Key Humility and Forgiveness.

Summary Checklist for Staying “Un-Offendable”

According to Bevere’s teaching, staying free requires daily maintenance:

  • [ ] Check your pride: Are you easily insulted? Pride is the “hook” that offence grabs onto.
  • [ ] Filter your words: Are you sharing your “hurt” with others (gossip), or taking it to God?
  • [ ] Examine your fruit: Is there peace in your life, or are you constantly “at war” with someone in your mind?

 

1 Source of Book Report: John Bevere’s classic work: “Bait of Satan.”

Uncategorized

Bible Verses to Memorize

In the chaos of our world, there are only twenty-four hours in a day. Unless you prioritize God’s Word, it is easy to leave it on the list for another day. Truly, the only way to know God is to know His Word, and the only way to know His Word is to spend time in it and spend time growing in a deeper understanding.

King David, the ancestral forefather of Jesus Christ, wrote this scripture many years ago— Psalm 119:11: “I have treasured Your word in my heart so that I may not sin against You.”

Hover over each scripture to see the pop-up.

  • Matthew 11:28
  • Philippians 4:6
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:18
  • Hebrews 12:1
  • Psalm 37:4
  • Matthew 22:37
  • Isaiah 53:5
  • 1 John 3:16
  • Ephesians 4:32
  • Micah 6:8
  • Philippians 2:3
  • 1 Samuel 2:3
  • Ephesians 2:8–9
  • Deuteronomy 7:9
  • Romans 1:17
  • Daniel 3:18
  • Galatians 2:20
  • Romans 12:1
  • Ephesians 2:10
  • Joel 2:13
  • James 5:16
  • Proverbs 13:20
  • John 10:10
  • Joshua 1:9
  • Ephesians 6:12
  • Isaiah 26:3
  • 1 Peter 5:8
  • Deuteronomy 31:6
  • James 1:12
  • Lamentations 3:22–23
  • 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
  • Colossians 3:23
  • Luke 16:13
  • Genesis 1:27–28
  • Romans 12:2
  • 1 Samuel 16:7
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:21
  • Proverbs 3:5
  • Hebrews 4:12
  • Joshua 1:8
  • 1 Peter 3:15
  • Numbers 23:19
  • 2 Peter 3:9
  • Isaiah 55:8
  • Hebrews 4:1
  • Zephaniah 3:17
  • 1 Corinthians 10:13
  • Job 19:25
  • John 16:33
  • Ecclesiastes 12:13
  • Romans 8:31
  • Romans 8:38–39
Uncategorized

The Souls of Unbelievers Go Immediately to Eternal Punishment

The Case for an Eternal Hell

First, I want to point out that salvation in Jesus Christ is for you (Romans 10:9–11 ): if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Simply believe this: Ephesians 3:18-19 NLT And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

We simply believe in Christ by faith, and we are freed from the condemnation due to all our unbelief in the very one who created us. Often, we may neglect the Word of God, where the facts regarding our eternal life are found: Hebrews 11:6: And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. (Ephesians 2:8, Hebrews 11:6, Acts 4:12, Titus 3:5)

Scripture never encourages us to think that people will have a second chance to trust in Christ after death. In fact, the situation is quite the contrary. Jesus’ story about the rich man and Lazarus gives no hope that people can cross from hell to heaven after they have died: though the rich man in hell called out, “Father Abraham, have mercy upon me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in anguish in this flame,” Abraham replied to him, “Between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us” (Luke 16:24–26). 1

The book of Hebrews connects death with the consequence of judgment in close sequence: “just as it is appointed for men to die once, and after that comes judgment …” (Heb. 9:27). Moreover, Scripture never represents the final judgment as depending on anything done after we die, but only on what has happened in this life (Matt. 25:31–46; Rom. 2:5–10; cf. 2 Cor. 5:10).

Some have argued for a second chance to believe in the gospel on the basis of Christ’s preaching to the spirits in prison in 1 Peter 3:18–20 and the preaching of the gospel “even to the dead” in 1 Peter 4:6, but those are inadequate interpretations of the verses in question, and, on closer inspection, do not support such a view.

We should also realize that the idea that there will be a second chance to accept Christ after death is based on the assumption that everyone deserves a chance to accept Christ and that eternal punishment only comes to those who consciously decide to reject him.

But certainly that idea is not supported by Scripture: we all are sinners by nature and choice, and no one actually deserves any of God’s grace or deserves any opportunity to hear the gospel of Christ—those come only because of God’s unmerited favour. Condemnation comes not only because of a willful rejection of Christ, but also because of the sins that we have committed and the rebellion against God that those sins represent (see John 3:18). The idea that people have a second chance to accept Christ after death would also destroy most motivation for evangelism and missionary activity today, and is not consistent with the intense missionary zeal that was felt by the New Testament church as a whole, and that was especially exemplified in the missionary travels of the apostle Paul.

The fact that there is conscious punishment for unbelievers after they die and that this punishment goes on forever is certainly a difficult doctrine for us to contemplate. But the passages that teach it appear so clear that we must affirm it if we are to affirm what Scripture teaches. Jesus says that on the day of final judgment, he will say to those at his left hand, “Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels,” and he says that “they will go away into eternal punishment but the righteous into eternal life” (Matt. 25:41, 46).

The Doctrine of Annihilationism is Unsupported by Scripture

Let’s repeat the words of Christ Himself: Scripture teaches. Jesus says that on the day of final judgment, he will say to those at his left hand [the unbelievers] “Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels,” and he says that “they will go away into eternal punishment but the righteous into eternal life” (Matt. 25:41, 46).

These passages show that we cannot accept annihilationism as faithful to Scripture. This is a doctrine that says that unbelievers, either immediately upon death, or else after suffering for a period of time, will simply cease to exist—God will “annihilate” them, and they will no longer be. Although the idea initially sounds attractive to us, and it avoids the emotional difficulty connected with affirming eternal conscious punishment for the wicked, such an idea is not explicitly affirmed in any passages of Scripture, and seems so clearly to be contradicted by those passages that connect the eternal blessing of the righteous with the eternal punishment of the wicked (Matt. 25:46) and that talk about punishment extending to the wicked day and night forever (Rev. 14:11; 20:10).

Although unbelievers pass into a state of eternal punishment immediately upon death, their bodies will not be raised until the day of final judgment. On that day, their bodies will be raised and reunited with their souls, and they will stand before God’s throne for final judgment to be pronounced upon them in the body (see Matt. 25:31–46; John 5:28–29; Acts 24:15; and Rev. 20:12, 15).

Again, salvation in Jesus Christ is for you (Romans 10:9–11 ): if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Questions for personal application. 2

Read each of these and please share your thoughts with me at my email: glenjackman@GraceProclaimed.org

  1. Have you thought very much about the possibility of your own death or a loved one in your family? Has there been an element of fear connected with those thoughts? What, if anything, do you fear about death? Do you think that these fears have come from the influence of the world around you or from Scripture? How would the teachings of Scripture encourage you to deal with these fears?

  1. Has this article changed your feelings about your own death in any way? Can you honestly contemplate it now as something that will bring you nearer to Christ and increase your own trust in God and faithfulness to him? How would you express your hopes regarding your own death?

  1. Do you think you would have the courage to refuse to sin even if it meant being thrown to the lions in a Roman coliseum, or burned at the stake during the Reformation, or thrown in prison for years in some foreign country today? Do you think the Christian martyrs throughout history had thought that they would have enough courage when put to the test? What happened to them to equip them for this suffering (read 1 Cor. 10:13)? If you can obtain a copy, you may wish to read the account of the martyrdom of Polycarp, a stirring testimony of faith in God and of God’s faithfulness in the second century a.d. Have you settled in your own mind that obedience to Christ is more important than preserving your own life? What would make you hesitant to believe this or act on this conviction?

  1. If you have experienced the death of a believer who was close to you, do you think that your reaction to that death was one of sorrow mingled with joy? How has this chapter influenced the way you feel about that situation, if at all?

  2. Have you previously believed in the doctrine of purgatory? If you no longer believe in it now, can you describe the way the doctrine made you feel, and the way you now feel emotionally about the fact that that doctrine is not true and there is no such place as purgatory?

  3. If death itself is viewed as part of the process of sanctification, then how should we view the process of growing older and weaker in this world? Is that the way the world views aging? What about you?

  4. How do you feel about MAID (aka assisted suicide), offered by the Government of Canada?

 

1 Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Leicester, England; Grand Rapids, MI: Inter-Varsity Press; Zondervan Pub. House, 2004), 822–825.
2 Ibid