BrittGillette.Com

Lately, I’ve run across a number of articles warning people to prepare themselves for hyperinflation in the United States.  Inevitably, these warnings are accompanied by comparisons to Germany’s Weimar Republic and its infamous bout with hyperinflation in the aftermath of World War I.  But is this really something to be worried about?

To answer that question, we must first understand what hyperinflation is.  In simple terms, hyperinflation is a rapid increase in the general price of goods and services, brought about as a result of a rapidly expanding money supply.

Given the current worldwide credit crunch and subsequent actions by the Federal Reserve, a number of people are predicting a period of hyperinflation for the United States.  These commentators point to the U.S. Treasury, the Federal Reserve, and the massive amounts of “liquidity” each institution is injecting into the marketplace.  Their theory rests on the assumption that in its drive to end the current credit crisis, the federal government is essentially printing money in order to stimulate economic activity.  Since the U.S. dollar is a fiat currency, meaning its sole value is derived from a holder’s faith in the promise of the U.S. government to back it up, no limits exist on how much currency the government can print.  The theory goes that as the U.S. government prints more and more dollars and extends more and more credit, the value of its fiat currency is eroded and the world is flooded with an excess supply of U.S. dollars.  As a direct result, it takes more and more U.S. dollars to purchase goods and services.

Based on these assumptions, quite a few websites are advising readers to be on the look out for hyperinflation and to prepare themselves and their families accordingly.  As such, people are being encouraged to buy gold, silver, and other precious metals as a hedge against hyperinflation.  This is sound advice if the diagnosis of hyperinflation is correct.  But unfortunately, it’s not.

The Real Threat

I know I’ll receive a barrage of emails from well-intentioned people who are convinced our current economic environment is setting people up for a nasty bout of hyperinflation.  But it’s just not true, and in good conscience, I can’t let these claims go unanswered.  United States citizens, and most people throughout the world, should not be preparing for the mythical threat of hyperinflation.  In fact, they should be preparing for the exact opposite.

The real threat of the current financial crisis is deflation – a general decrease in the price of all goods and services as a result of a contraction of the global money supply.  In short, deflation is a net contraction of base money and credit while inflation and hyperinflation are the opposite.

What’s Really Happening…

The hyperinflation argument is built on the faulty premise that the money supply will dramatically increase in the near future, while demand remains steady, thus increasing the general price of all goods and services.  However, if we observe the world around us, we see the exact opposite forces in effect.

This is because the money supply is a total of all currency, coin, and credit in the marketplace.  Take note that physical U.S. dollars a person can actually hold in his hand account for only a small fraction of the money supply.  The remainder of the money supply essentially consists of credit or IOUs held in the form of various financial instruments.  In our fractional reserve banking system, the money supply expands in tandem with the expansion of credit.  Yet, right now, all the indicators are signaling that the days of easy credit are over.  The extension and acceptance of credit is contracting.

Simply put, fewer institutions are willing to lend money, and fewer institutions and individuals are willing (or able) to borrow.  As individuals and institutions default on their debts, the debt instruments (money) decline in value, effectively decreasing the money supply.

While I’ve put this in very simplistic terms, the fact of the matter is that we’re in the midst of a massive global credit crunch, the effective result of which is a worldwide contraction of the money supply.

Furthermore, we’re witnessing a tectonic shift in consumer spending attitudes as people turn away from the recent past behavior of borrow and spend to a more realistic view of work and save.  This means total demand for consumer products throughout the economy is in general decline.

While it’s true that the United States is issuing new currency and coins at an unprecedented rate, this increase in the base money supply (physical currency) is increasing at nowhere near the pace at which credit and consumer demand are being destroyed.  The net effect is deflation.

In an earlier article, I wrote about the declining value of the U.S. dollar:

“Anyone in touch with the world today knows that the dollar is losing value on an almost daily basis.  The dollar has fallen relative to oil, gold, silver, and every other commodity on the planet.  Although this fall won’t last forever, it’s a clear symptom of an ominous future for the dollar’s underlying value.”

When the above statement was made, the world was near the pinnacle of the largest credit bubble in world history.  The easy extension of credit over the course of several consecutive years dramatically increased the money supply.  Since demand for the dollar remained relatively stable over that same time period, an increase in supply resulted in a lower price for dollars.  In other words, the dollar lost value.  As credit expanded (increasing the money supply along with it), it took more and more dollars to purchase gold, oil, silver, food, gasoline, houses, and just about everything.  Essentially, the world experienced rampant inflation for the greater part of this decade.

The idea that “peak oil” or increased demand or anything other than speculation and a general decline in the value of fiat currency was responsible for $147 a barrel oil is simply dead wrong.  An ounce of gold will purchase approximately the same number of barrels of oil today as it would have purchased ten years ago.  Inflation, caused by the rapid expansion of credit, was the driving force in the rising price of oil – as well as the rising price of just about everything else.

What’s Going On Now…

When the massive credit bubble burst, it led to an immediate contraction of the global money supply – a contraction that is still in the process of unraveling.  This isn’t entirely the result of massive debt defaults, but also the product of a global race to hoard cash in order to service debt and make adequate provision for the future.  Financial institutions are hoarding cash in order to guard against future losses and meet government reserve requirements.  Corporations are hoarding cash as they watch past lines of credit disappear.  And individuals are hoarding cash as they face the prospect of job layoffs as well as mounting debt obligations.  So, not only is the money supply contracting, but demand for cash has increased.

This demand for cash has had, and will continue to have, worldwide  implications.  In an effort to increase their cash holdings, corporations, hedge funds, and individuals have been selling assets.  As a result, we’ve witnessed a general price decrease in just about every asset class.  The price of gold is down.  The price of oil and gasoline is down.  The housing market is down, and the stock market is down.

In such a world, the idea of hyperinflation is almost laughable.  This isn’t an environment that breeds hyperinflation.  It is an environment of widespread deflation.

The Deflationary Spiral

Unfortunately, a deflationary environment is one of the worst economic situations possible.  Consumers, faced with unemployment, or the very real prospect of unemployment, curtail discretionary spending, and the collective result of their efforts is lower profits for many businesses.  Faced with decreased demand and poor cash flows, businesses throughout the economy respond by trimming their workforce.  This, in turn, further derails consumer spending as the jobless are not a reliable customer base for most businesses.  In addition, the gainfully employed cut back on spending and hoard cash in preparation for the next round of layoffs.  And on and on…  The vicious cycle just feeds itself.

This is the same situation which plunged the world into the Great Depression.

So where does it all end?  Unfortunately, government efforts to “fix” a crisis government created in the first place will inevitably fail.  The Federal Reserve Board can cut the discount rate and the fed funds rate.  Other central banks throughout the world can follow suit, and they have.  Governments can guarantee bank deposits, buy up debt obligations, nationalize banks, and run the printing presses night and day.  But in the end, all of these efforts will be futile in attempting to spur economic activity.

Why?

Because, in the end, governments can’t make lenders lend and borrowers borrow.

And until lenders are willing to lend, and borrowers are willing (and able) to borrow, the credit side of the money supply equation will continue to contract, and the economic landscape will continue to deteriorate.

Collapsing debt obligations, rising foreclosures, rising credit card defaults, and rising unemployment are deflationary forces. And these events are not exclusive to the United States.  The credit crisis is worldwide.  Only after the debt bubble fully deflates (i.e. the foreclosures and bankruptcies end), then – and only then – will credit and economic activity expand.  Once that happens, inflation will become a threat once again.  But for the moment, inflation and hyperinflation are no where on the horizon.

That said, we remain in a severe global economic downturn.  So what does all this have to do with bible prophecy?

Economic Crises Give Rise to Despots

If history provides any indication, times of economic crisis are especially susceptible to the rise of demagogues and despots.  Historically, political leaders take advantage of both perceived and real crises in order to increase the power and scope of government.  The current credit crisis is no different.  Already governments throughout the world have taken advantage of public fear and hysteria, drafting massive bailout packages to select corporations and industries, temporarily suspending the rules and regulations of financial markets, and forcing the nationalization of banks and other private industries.  Recently, several prominent world leaders issued a clarion call to “rewrite the rules of international finance.”  In the meantime, each of these government power grabs occurs against the backdrop of a citizenry which is ever increasingly looking toward government as its Savior.

In an environment such as this one, ambitious individuals have been know to push through bold and radical agendas with relatively opposition from the public.  A hungry and unemployed public places far more emphasis on jobs and security rather than freedom and liberty.  Our last deflationary spiral, The Great Depression, should be instructive in this regard.  The economic deflation of the 1930’s gave rise to Adolf Hitler in Europe and Huey Long in the United States.  Few people realize that Huey Long had successfully transformed Louisiana into his own personal police state.  Had he not been assassinated in 1935, Huey Long might well have become President of the United States, effectively giving America its own dictator.

History is clear, an economic crisis is fertile ground for a demagogue.

The Antichrist

As world leaders such as UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown issue calls for building a “global society,” the stage is being set for the most infamous dictator in human history to seize power.  Known as the Antichrist, the bible states that, in the last days, this man will come to control all of the world’s economic activity:

“He required everyone – great and small, rich and poor, slave and free – to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name.” Revelation 13:16-17 (NLT)

In fact, he will exercise complete power over every person on earth:

“And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation.” Revelation 13:7 (NLT)

This is why the current economic crisis is of dire consequence to the people of the world.  While we can’t know for sure whether this particular crisis will give rise to the Antichrist, we can be certain that the calls for increased global cooperation, global government, and governmental power over the free markets are setting the stage for a single man to seize control of the entire earth.

How the World Can Recover

While most of the world anxiously looks toward government for answers to the current economic turmoil, Christians can move forward with bold confidence.  Why?  Because the bible provides us with the guiding principles for curing this economic ailment.  If the rest of the world had followed, or would dare to follow, biblical principles in its financial dealings, then the current economic crisis would be a non event.

While most of the world grew drunk on the excesses of debt, the bible issued dire warnings of its pitfalls:

“Don’t agree to guarantee another person’s debt or put up security for someone else.  If you can’t pay it, even your bed will be snatched from under you.” Proverbs 22:26-27 (NLT)

“Owe nothing to anyone – except for your obligation to love one another.” Romans 13:8 (NLT)

“Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender.” Proverbs 22:7 (NLT)

It’s not too late for the world to start following the biblical principles of finance, but unfortunately, the world will follow its own path.

Conclusion

Hyperinflation is not a concern right now.  The world is in the midst of a deflationary spiral similar to that which caused the Great Depression, and this period will probably last several months or years.  Nevertheless, Christians shouldn’t be overly concerned with our preparations for dealing with the ills of this world.  While we should make wise provision for the future, if we first pursue the Kingdom of Heaven above all else, then we will be capable of easily enduring any number of economic conditions, from deflation to inflation and hyperinflation.

A life which glorifies Jesus Christ should not be overly concerned with the fleeting value of earthly wealth.  For it can thrive in any condition:

“Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.  I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.  For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”  Philippians 4:11-13 (NLT)

Regardless of the material condition in which we find ourselves, we should live our lives in the service of Christ.

Our faith should not be in stock markets, pensions, or job security.  Our faith shouldn’t be in the provisions we’ve made or the gold and silver we’ve hoarded in anticipation of an economic collapse.  Our faith should be in Christ alone.  For this faith is the foundation of all the wealth we will ever have:

“The rich think of their wealth as a strong defense; they imagine it to be a high wall of safety.”  Proverbs 18:11 (NLT)

“Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment.”  1 Timothy 6:17 (NLT)

Christians have far more than the riches of this world; we have the riches of Christ.

“And anyone who believes in Him will never be disappointed.” 1 Peter 2:6 (NLT)

“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal.  Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal.  Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.”  Matthew 6:19-21 (NLT)

If you find this site helpful, please consider a donation to support this ministry.

It’s been more than six weeks since my last article, the longest stretch of time by far since I first started posting articles to the site.  Many of you have emailed me wondering where I’ve been or when the next post is coming.  Rest assured that I haven’t fallen away from the faith, nor have I lost interest in proclaiming the wonder of God’s prophetic Word or the Good News of our Savior Jesus Christ!  But I have been preoccupied with matters other than writing new articles.

On September 29th at 10:13am, my wife and I were blessed with the birth of a little baby girl – Samantha Grace Gillette (7 lbs 5 oz).  This is a true blessing from God who created all of us from nothing and formed us according to His will:

“You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb.  Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!  Your workmanship is marvelous – how well I know it.  You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.  You saw me before I was born.  Every day of my life was recorded in your book.  Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.  How precious are your thoughts about me, O God.  They cannot be numbered!  I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand!  And when I wake up, you are still with me!”  Psalm 139:13-18 (NLT)

 While I haven’t been serving the Lord by writing articles the last six weeks, I have done my best to answer emails, while the archived articles on the site continue to reach more and more people via Google and other search engines (search engine traffic is up over 50% this month).  But more importantly, I’ve been doing my best to serve the Lord Jesus Christ by being a faithful husband and father.

Since before she was born, I’ve said a daily prayer for Samantha.  My prayer is that she will follow Jesus for all the days of her life.  Nothing else matters.  I don’t wish for her any special talents or great wealth or worldly accolades.  Only that she follows the Lord, and I will do my best to guide her down the path to truth:

“And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today.  Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up.”  Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NLT)

Please say a prayer for our family, and especially for our daughter Samantha – one of the newest members of God’s family – as we do our best to glorify God.

“But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.”  Joshua 24:15 (NLT)

I’ll do my best to get back to regular posting of articles as soon as possible.  In the meantime, thank you for your thoughts and prayers.

Your friend in Christ,

Britt

If you find this site helpful, please consider a donation to support this ministry.

Much has been written about the last days and the end times just prior to the glorious appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ.  But just how do these events fit together?  What is the chronology of events which will take place in the last days?  While the following timeline is by no means an exhaustive examination of the end times, my hope is that it will provide a summary overview of the sequence of major events set to take place during this time period:

1) The Rapture of the Church

In all likelihood, the next event on God’s prophetic calendar is the rapture of the church.  Loosely translated, the word ‘rapture’ means to ‘catch up’ or ‘snatch away.’  Prior to the Tribulation period, Jesus Christ will return in the clouds to gather all earthly believers unto Himself.  Paul revealed this event in his letter to the Corinthians:

“But let me tell you a wonderful secret God has revealed to us. Not all of us will die, but we will all be transformed. It will happen in a moment, in the blinking of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, the Christians who have died will be raised with transformed bodies. And then we who are living will be transformed so that we will never die. For our perishable earthly bodies must be transformed into heavenly bodies that will never die.” 1 Corinthians 15:51-53 (NLT)

Paul is clear in his statement that not every Christian will die.  Some will be transformed “in the blinking of an eye” before their earthly lives have come to an end.  But will this event happen before, during, or after the Tribulation?  The answer is clear when this passage is taken in context with other biblical passages.

When Least Expected

Jesus taught His disciples to expect His return at any moment, for no one can know the day of His coming:

“So you, too, must keep watch!  For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming. Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into.  You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.”  Matthew 24:42-44 (NLT)

The rapture will occur unexpectedly, much like a thief in the night.  This is consistent with the teaching of Jesus that no one will know the day or the hour of His coming:

“However, no one knows the day or the hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son Himself. Only the Father knows. When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. In those days before the Flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the Flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes.” Matthew 24:36-39 (NLT)

If the return of Jesus to rapture His followers is a truly unexpected event which takes the world by surprise, then by definition most of the world can not be waiting in anticipation.  Therefore, the rapture must occur before the Tribulation.  Why?  Because once the numerous and specific prophecies concerning the Tribulation are being fulfilled in world events, most of the world will take notice.  The events of the tribulation will be so earth-shattering in nature, and the corresponding bible prophecies so clear, that a large portion of the world will come to anticipate the glorious appearing of Jesus Christ.

The Promise of Christ

Lest there be any doubt that the rapture occurs before the Tribulation, make note of this promise from Jesus Himself:

“Because you have obeyed my command to persevere, I will protect you from the great time of testing that will come upon the whole world to test those who belong to this world.” Revelation 3:10 (NLT)

Jesus has promised to protect those who follow Him from “the great time of testing that will come upon the whole world.”  This time exists to test “those who belong to this world,” not those who belong to Him.  Therefore, God’s Word in all its consistency reveals that the rapture will occur before the Tribulation.

2) The War of Gog and Magog

The next event on God’s prophetic timeline is the War of Gog and Magog.  The leader of Russia will form a military coalition which includes the nations Iran, Libya, Ethiopia, and Turkey, and he will lead them against the nation of Israel.

“Therefore, son of man, prophesy against Gog. Give him this message from the Sovereign Lord: When my people are living in peace in their land, then you will rouse yourself. You will come from your homeland in the distant north with your vast cavalry and your mighty army, and you will cover the land like a cloud. This will happen in the distant future. I will bring you against my land as everyone watches, and my holiness will be displayed by what happens to you. Then all the nations will know that I am the Lord.” Ezekiel 38:14-16 (NLT)

God will display His glory to all the nations of the world by personally destroying this Russian military coalition.  This will happen either at the beginning of, or sometime before, the tribulation.  How do we know?  Because God tells us the nation of Israel will use the leftover implements of this war as fuel for seven years:

“Then the people in the towns of Israel will go out and pick up your small and large shields, bows and arrows, javelins and spears, and they will use them for fuel. There will be enough to last them seven years!”  Ezekiel 39:9 (NLT)

It seems unlikely that Israel will use these weapons as fuel during the Millennial Kingdom, since Jesus Christ will provide all the light and energy that is needed for daily living.  And since the tribulation leading up to the Millennial Kingdom lasts a total of seven years, it’s only logical that the War of Gog and Magog either takes place before the tribulation or else marks it beginning.

3) The Antichrist’s 7-Year Covenant with Israel

The Antichrist will reveal himself by confirming a covenant with the nation of Israel:

“He will make a treaty with the people for a period of one set of seven” Daniel 9:27 (NLT)

The details and nature of this treaty are yet unknown, but many have speculated that in a bid for Middle Eastern peace, Israel will agree to rely on the Antichrist for its national defense.  It is generally accepted that the signing of this accord with Israel will mark the beginning of the Tribulation period.

4) The Tribulation (Daniel’s 70th Week)

As previously stated, the War of Gog and Magog either occurs at the beginning of the tribulation or signals its approach.  The tribulation is a period of seven years of turmoil and horror which will come upon the world.  The time period is also known as Daniel’s seventieth week, as the concept was laid out by God in the Book of Daniel:

“A period of seventy sets of seven has been decreed for your people and your holy city to finish their rebellion, to put an end to their sin, to atone for their guilt, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to confirm the prophetic vision, and to anoint the Most Holy Place.” Daniel 9:24 (NLT)

This passage clearly states that a period of 490 years is allotted for the nation of Israel to accomplish God’s purposes.  It also reveals that 483 of those years have already passed:

“Now listen and understand! Seven sets of seven plus sixty-two sets of seven will pass from the time the command is given to rebuild Jerusalem until a ruler – the Anointed One – comes. Jerusalem will be rebuilt with streets and strong defenses, despite the perilous times.” Daniel 9:24-25 (NLT)

This prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus Christ appeared 483 years after the command was given to rebuild Jerusalem.  The arrival of Jesus Christ fulfilled 69 of the prophetic 7-year periods outlined in the Book of Daniel, with one period yet remaining:

“After this period of sixty-two sets of seven, the Anointed One will be killed, appearing to have accomplished nothing, and a ruler will arise whose armies will destroy the city and the Temple. The end will come with a flood, and war and its miseries are decreed from that time to the very end.” Daniel 9:26 (NLT)

This time period will also witness the 7 Seal Judgments (Revelation 6:1-17) and the 7 Trumpet Judgments (Revelation 8:1-9:21)

Since the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the world has been living on borrowed time.  Once the rapture of the church puts an end to the “Age of Grace,” the final seven year period will begin.  This is widely known as the Tribulation, and it officially begins with the Antichrist’s confirmation of a covenant with Israel.

5) Global Government

During the Tribulation, the Antichrist will consolidate his power quickly.  All the nations of the world will soon fall under his authority:

“And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation.” Revelation 13:7 (NLT)

In fact, not one person will escape the reach of the Antichrist and his governmental dominion:

“He required everyone – great and small, rich and poor, slave and free – to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name.” Revelation 13:16-17 (NLT)

The Antichrist will have unprecedented control over the world’s financial transactions. He will have so much power that he will be able to determine on a case-by-case basis which individuals will be allowed to buy or sell anything.

6) Satan Thrown to the Earth

At the midpoint of the Tribulation period, a war will break out in heaven:

“Then there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels. And the dragon lost the battle, and he and his angels were forced out of heaven. This great dragon – the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world – was thrown down to the earth with all his angels. Then I heard a loud voice shouting across the heavens, ‘It has come at last – salvation and power and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth – the one who accuses them before our God day and night. And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die. Therefore, rejoice, O heavens! And you who live in the heavens, rejoice! But terror will come on the earth and the sea, for the devil has come down to you in great anger, knowing that he has little time.’” Revelation 12:7-12 (NLT)

Traditionally, people have believed Satan resides in Hell, but Hell is actually his future destination.  Up until the midpoint of the Tribulation, Satan will continue to reside in Heaven.  The Book of Job confirms the assertion that Satan resides in Heaven, where he accuses mankind before the Lord, day and night:

“One day the members of the heavenly court came to present themselves before the Lord, and the Accuser, Satan, came with them.”  Job 1:6 (NLT)

Many have often wondered why God allows evil to exist.  They fail to understand that we live in the midst of an epic spiritual war, pitting the forces of evil (Satan) against the forces of righteousness (Jesus).  To mankind, Satan’s rebellion is an event from the ancient past, but on God’s eternal timeline, it’s a relatively recent event.  Nevertheless, God will not tolerate Satan’s rebellion, and the ultimate victor in this war is clear.  Satan will lose, and his defeat in the battle for heaven will result in his being thrown down to earth.

This event will occur at the mid-point of the Tribulation, and it will mark a terrible time for those who live on the earth.

7) The Abomination of Desolation

Satan’s crushing defeat and subsequent fall to earth will coincide with another prophesied event – the abomination of desolation.  In fulfillment of Daniel’s prophecy, the Antichrist will enter the Jewish Temple and proclaim himself to be God. He will set up an image in the Holy Place and demand the world worship it:

“He will put an end to the sacrifices and offerings. Then as a climax to all his terrible deeds, he will set up a sacrilegious object that causes desecration, until the end that has been decreed is poured out on this defiler.” Daniel 9:27 (NLT)

Jesus warned His disciples of this terrible event:

“The time will come when you will see what Daniel the prophet spoke about: the sacrilegious object that causes desecration standing in the Holy Place.” Matthew 24:16 (NLT)

And the apostle Paul also described this abominable act:

“He will exalt himself and defy every god there is and tear down every object of adoration and worship. He will position himself in the temple of God, claiming that he himself is God.” 2 Thessalonians 2:4 (NLT)

The bible is clear that the abomination of desolation will occur at the mid-point of the Tribulation:

“The ruler will make a treaty with the people for a period of one set of seven, but after half this time, he will put an end to the sacrifices and offerings. And as a climax to all his terrible deeds, he will set up a sacrilegious object that causes desecration, until the fate decreed for this defiler is finally poured out on him.” Daniel 9:27 (NLT)

8) The Jews Flee Israel

Following the abomination of desolation, the Jews will flee Israel:

“‘The day is coming when you will see what Daniel the prophet spoke about – the sacrilegious object that causes desecration standing in the Holy Place.’ (Reader, pay attention!) ‘Then those in Judea must flee to the hills. A person out on the deck of a roof must not go down into the house to pack. A person out in the field must not return even to get a coat. How terrible it will be for pregnant women and for nursing mothers in those days. And pray that your flight will not be in winter or on the Sabbath. For there will be greater anguish than at any time since the world began. And it will never be so great again.’” Matthew 24:15-21 (NLT)

The Jewish people, the nation of Israel, will flee into the wilderness where God Himself will supernaturally protect them from a second holocaust at the hands of the Antichrist:

“And the woman fled into the wilderness, where God had prepared a place to care for her for 1,260 days.” Revelation 12:6 (NLT)

The Jews who escape will remain under God’s protection for the duration of the Tribulation period, three and a half years.

9) The Mark of the Beast

As part of his nefarious system of self-worship, the Antichrist will establish a global financial system by which no one can buy or sell without his permission:

“He required everyone – great and small, rich and poor, slave and free – to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name.” Revelation 13:16-17 (NLT)

The Antichrist and his followers will pay a hefty price for accepting the mark of the beast. The Bible tells us that ALL who accept the mark of the beast will face eternal judgment for their decision. The following verses reveal the consequences of this rebellion against God:

“Then a third angel followed them, shouting, ‘Anyone who worships the beast and his statue or who accepts his mark on the forehead or the hand must drink the wine of God’s wrath. It is poured out undiluted into God’s cup of wrath. And they will be tormented with fire and burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and the Lamb. The smoke of their torment rises forever and ever, and they will have no relief day or night, for they have worshiped the beast and his statue and have accepted the mark of his name.” Revelation 14:9-11 (NLT)

Acceptance of the mark is not a matter to be taken lightly. Anyone who accepts the mark denies Christ in favor of a false god. This decision, once made, is irrevocable, and the consequences are everlasting.

10) The Great Tribulation

The final three and a half years of the Tribulation will be known as The Great Tribulation, a time of unrivaled horror.  The 7 Bowl Judgments (Revelation 16:1-21) will take place during this time.  And the Antichrist, demanding the world worship him as if he were God Almighty, will institute a world-wide campaign to murder and destroy all those who worship the one true God.  This period is known as The Great Tribulation, and it comprises the final three and a half years of the seven year Tribulation:

“He will defy the Most High and oppress the holy people of the Most High. He will try to change their sacred festivals and laws, and they will be placed under his control for a time, times, and half a time.” Daniel 7:25 (NLT)

“Then the beast was allowed to speak great blasphemies against God. And he was given authority to do whatever he wanted for forty-two months.” Revelation 13:5 (NLT)

“There she would be cared for and protected from the dragon for a time, times, and half a time.” Revelation 12:14 (NLT)

“They will trample the holy city for 42 months. And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will be clothed in burlap and will prophesy during those 1,260 days.” Revelation 11:2-3 (NLT)

The bible is clear in stating that the Great Tribulation will occur in the last three and a half years before the Glorious Appearing of Jesus Christ.

11) The Appearance of the Two Witnesses

During this time, God will give power to two witnesses, who will prophesy throughout the Great Tribulation:

“And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will be clothed in sackcloth and will prophesy during those 1,260 days. These two prophets are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of all the earth. If anyone tries to harm them, fire flashes from the mouths of the prophets and consumes their enemies. This is how anyone who tries to harm them must die. They have power to shut the skies so that no rain will fall for as long as they prophesy. And they have the power to turn the rivers and oceans into blood, and to send every kind of plague upon the earth as often as they wish.” Revelation 11:3-6 (NLT)

For 1,260 days, these two witnesses will prophesy to the world, and despite a plethora of enemies, no one will be able to harm them. During that time, they will have the power to end rainfall, turn the rivers and oceans to blood, and send every kind of plague upon the earth.

12) Babylon Destroyed in One Hour

In the last days, the City of Babylon will not only rise to worldly prominence once again, but it will face the judgment of God Almighty in a single day:

“Therefore, these plagues will overtake her in a single day – death and mourning and famine.  She will be completely consumed by fire, for the Lord God who judges her is mighty.  And the kings of the world who committed adultery with her and enjoyed her great luxury will mourn for her as they see the smoke rising from her charred remains.  They will stand at a distance, terrified by her great torment. They will cry out, ‘How terrible, how terrible for you, O Babylon, you great city!  In a single moment God’s judgment came on you.’”  Revelation 18:8-10 (NLT)

The merchants and kings of the world will mourn the destruction of this worldly city, which had been the apex of human rebellion.  The city of Babylon will become a city of unparalleled wealth and opulence, as well as a city of debauchery, idolatry, sorcery, sexual immorality, and every other sort of unholy abomination.  In the aftermath of its judgment, those who reveled in its sins will literally sob because of its loss.

13) The Death of the Two Witnesses

At the end of the Great Tribulation, when their testimony is complete, the two witnesses of God will be killed.  Their bodies will lie unburied in the main street of Jerusalem as the world celebrates its good fortune:

“When they complete their testimony, the beast that comes up out of the bottomless pit will declare war against them. He will conquer them and kill them. And their bodies will lie in the main street of Jerusalem, the city which is called ‘Sodom’ and ‘Egypt,’ the city where their Lord was crucified. And for three and a half days, all peoples, tribes, languages, and nations will come to stare at their bodies. No one will be allowed to bury them. All the people who belong to this world will give presents to each other to celebrate the death of the two prophets who had tormented them.” Revelation 11:7-10 (NLT)

However, what happens next will strike fear in those who dare to celebrate:

“But after three and a half days, the spirit of life from God entered them, and they stood up! And terror struck all who were staring at them. Then a loud voice shouted from heaven, ‘Come up here!’ And they rose to heaven in a cloud as their enemies watched. And in the same hour there was a terrible earthquake that destroyed a tenth of the city. Seven thousand people died in that earthquake. And everyone who did not die was terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven.” Revelation 11:11-13 (NLT)

Just as Jesus Christ rose from the dead after three days and three nights, so will His two witnesses be resurrected after three and a half days. The Book of Revelation tells us that terror will strike all those who are staring at them.

14) The Gathering at Armageddon

In the aftermath of Satan being thrown to the earth, mankind will attempt to cast off every restraint of God’s authority.  The evil demons under his command will convince the leaders of the world to gather together in order to do battle against God Almighty and His Son Jesus Christ:

“And I saw three evil spirits that looked like frogs leap from the mouth of the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet. These miracle-working demons caused all the rulers of the world to gather for battle against the Lord on that great judgment day of God Almighty.” Revelation 16:13-14 (NLT)

The final gathering place for this battle will be a geographical location in the nation of Israel, known as Armageddon:

“And they gathered all the rulers and their armies to a place called Armageddon in Hebrew.” Revelation 16:16 (NLT)

It is here, at Armageddon, that the final human attempt at world government will come to an end.  In fulfillment of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, the statue which represents human government will be smashed by the supernatural.  The Millennial Kingdom of Jesus Christ will take its place, and it will never be destroyed.

15) The Glorious Appearing of Jesus Christ

While gathered at Armageddon, rebellious humanity will witness the glorious appearing of Jesus Christ:

“For as lightning lights up the entire sky, so it will be when the Son of Man comes.” Matthew 24:27 (NLT)

The appearance of Christ in the sky will be unmistakable to the people of this world.  As they gather to do battle with Him, Christ will take up their challenge and take on the entire human race:

“Then the Lord will go out to fight against those nations, as he has fought in times past. On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem. And the Mount of Olives will split apart, making a wide valley running from east to west. Half the mountain will move toward the north and half toward the south. You will flee through this valley, for it will reach across to Azal. Yes, you will flee as you did from the earthquake in the days of King Uzziah of Judah. Then the Lord my God will come, and all his holy ones with him.” Zechariah 14:3-5 (NLT)

As the Lord’s feet touch down on the Mount of Olives, a giant earthquake will split the ground.  Jesus Christ will come in vengeance against His enemies, as the Commander of Heaven’s Armies.

16) The Birth of the Millennial Kingdom

Following His victory over the enemies of God, Jesus Christ will establish the Kingdom of Heaven on Earth:

“On that day the sources of light will no longer shine, yet there will be continuous day! Only the Lord knows how this could happen. There will be no normal day and night, for at evening time it will still be light. On that day life-giving waters will flow out from Jerusalem, half toward the Dead Sea and half toward the Mediterranean, flowing continuously in both summer and winter. And the Lord will be king over all the earth. On that day there will be one Lord – his name alone will be worshiped.” Zechariah 14:6-9 (NLT)

And the world will rejoice, because the world will finally be filled with peace and justice!

If you find this site helpful, please consider a donation to support this ministry.

The following news story was recently brought to my attention, and I think it’s worth noting:

“Secret Killing Program is Key in Iraq, Woodward Says”

WASHINGTON (CNN) — The dramatic drop in violence in Iraq is due in large part to a secret program the U.S. military has used to kill terrorists, according to a new book by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bob Woodward.

The program — which Woodward compares to the World War II era Manhattan Project that developed the atomic bomb — must remain secret for now or it would “get people killed,” Woodward said Monday on CNN’s Larry King Live. [Read more…]

If this is true, then it raises a number of interesting questions.  What is the purpose and/or product of this secret program?  Is molecular manufacturing part of this undertaking? 

Regardless of the true identity of the secret weapon Bob Woodward says exists, in all likelihood, it is not molecular manufacturing.  Although molecular manufacturing would allow American forces to easily track and destroy terrorists, it would also be quite difficult to conceal for a protracted period of time.  This is due to the need to avoid a molecular manufacturing arms race, which would quickly result in unprecedented global destruction.  To avoid such a dire outcome, the establishment of global government is inevitable.

Since Woodward’s so called secret weapon has been deployed for some time, we can be all but certain it isn’t molecular manufacturing.  However, Woodward’s claim indirectly supports the idea that the development of molecular manufacturing is rapidly approaching.

I wrote the following back in 2002:

“The proliferation of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons provides terrorists with an almost infinite number of options for attacking the global economic system.  The financial and logistical impossibility of guarding against every possible attack necessitates the development of molecular manufacturing to defend our way of life.  Just as December 7th catapulted the world into the Nuclear Age, September 11th will plunge it into the Nanotechnic Age.”

In other words, the need to put an immediate end to a costly worldwide conflict in the early 1940’s ultimately led to a heated race to create an atomic bomb.  Likewise, the global war on terror, as well as more traditional geopolitical competition, will ultimately lead to the creation of molecular manufacturing.

At the very least, Bob Woodward is telling us that the United States government is engaged in serious military research and development efforts in order to achieve a breakthrough victory in the war on terror.  While it’s doubtful that the breakthrough Woodward is celebrating is molecular manufacturing, we should have no doubt that the United States, or most likely another nation (or coalition of nations), will develop molecular manufacturing as a result of today’s geopolitical climate.

When that happens, the developing nation(s) will begin a campaign for complete global domination – a campaign that will lead to the very Tribulation warned of by Jesus and the Prophets centuries ago.

If you find this site helpful, please consider a donation to support this ministry.

Presented below is an email I recently received.  I thought it might be a good idea to post this email because I’ve heard similar thoughts expressed in the past, and therefore, it’s very likely that a lot of people who stumble across this website hold a similar viewpoint, yet don’t take the time to email their thoughts.  Also, the email addresses three very important subjects – the Old Testament Law, the Old Testament Prophets, and the fulfillment of both in the life of Jesus of Nazareth.  As such, this exchange is an important one to share.

My response is posted afterward.

[Received Email]

Hi Britt,

Thought you might like this little compilation I did to help with your work:

The Bible is the infallible word of our Lord. If you are a TRUE Christian, you follow these commands:

Who You Should Kill

-Unruly or rebellious child. Deut 21:20-21
-Those who curse or hit their parents. Lev 20:9, Ex 21:15
-Worshipers of other gods. Deut 13:6-11
-Psychics, witches. Lev 20:27, Deut 13:6-11, Ex 22:18
-Those who do not believe in Jesus (parable). Luke 19:27
-Those who work on the Sabbath. Ex 35:2 (Moses kills a gentile for this. Num 15:32-36.)
-Those who are accused by at least two people of wickedness. Deut 17:6
-The children and babies of enemies. Num 31:17, Deut 20:13, Psalm 137:9, Lev 26:29
-Adulterers. Lev 20:10
-Homosexuals. Lev 20:13
-A woman who is not a virgin when married. Deut 22:13-21
-Those who are careless with murderous livestock. Exodus 21:29

Who You Should Hate

-Those who eat crab or shrimp. Lev 11:10
-Those who sacrifice an animal to God that has a blemish. Deut 17:1
-Those who remarry the same person after divorce. Deut 24:4
-Homosexuals. Lev 18:22
-Those who are proud. Prov 16:5
-A woman who wears pants. Deut 22:5
-A man with long hair (Jesus?). 1 Cor 11:14
-Those who call others fools Mat 5:22

Should we still do this stuff?

-All Old Testament laws still apply in the New Testament. Matt 5:17-19

—————————————

You don’t dare to try and FILTER and pick and choose from the word of God right? You don’t pull that nambie-pampy “out of context” silliness with passages you don’t like, but then wholeheartedly accept those you DO like? That is SIN!

So either you are a TRUE Christian, and you’ll follow those loving commands from God. Or you are doomed to be tortured in hell forever! Oh Glory!

Free With Jesus!

[End of Received Email]

[My Response]

Dear Free With Jesus:

Thank you for taking the time to email me.  I will do my best to answer your questions, and I welcome your feedback if you feel I’ve inadequately addressed your questions.

Your compilation of references to Old Testament laws is very thorough, and I’m afraid I’m guilty of violating many of them.  In fact, all of humanity is sentenced to death as a result of our sin.

Because all of us are born into sin, we are all condemned – banished from the presence of God who, in His infinite justice, can not tolerate the presence of the unholy. But all is not lost - there is great news!

In order to make us holy, blameless in the eyes of God, Jesus Christ (God in the flesh) came to earth and paid the price of humanity’s sin through His blood on the cross:

“For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood.” Romans 3:25 (NLT)

The above statement by Paul is in complete agreement with the Law of Moses:

“In fact, according to the law of Moses, nearly everything was purified with blood. For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.” Hebrews 9:22 (NLT)

“For the life of the body is in its blood. I have given you the blood on the altar to purify you, making you right with the Lord. It is the blood, given in exchange for a life, that makes purification possible.” Leviticus 17:11 (NLT)

Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness. Therefore, Christ shed His blood in order that we might be forgiven:

“Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit.” 1 Peter 3:18 (NLT)

Christ even paid the penalty for the sins of those who died prior to His First Coming – prior to His ministry, His death, and His resurrection:

“That is why the Good News was preached to those who are now dead – so although they were destined to die like all people, they now live forever with God in the Spirit.” 1 Peter 4:6 (NLT)

“That is why the Scriptures say, ‘When he ascended to the heights, he led a crowd of captives and gave gifts to his people.’ Notice that it says ‘he ascended.’ This clearly means that Christ also descended to our lowly world. And the same one who descended is the one who ascended higher than all the heavens, so that he might fill the entire universe with himself.” Ephesians 4:8-10 (NLT)

Because of the wonderful sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the door is open for anyone to establish a personal relationship with the Alpha and the Omega – the very Lord of the Universe!

“But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.” Romans 5:8-11 (NLT)

You are correct when you state we are “free with Jesus!”

In answer to your questions:

1)  Should we still do this stuff?

Jesus came not to abolish the Law, but to fulfill the Law and the Prophets.  It is certainly your right to carry out Old Testament punishments in fulfillment of the Law.  However, in doing so, you must be aware of your own violations of the Law, which make you subject to the same condemnation.  (This is why the sacrifice of Christ is the greatest act of love in human history.  He died so that we are saved.)

Here’s what Jesus had to say:

“’Teacher,’ they said to Jesus, ‘this woman was caught in the act of adultery.  The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?’  They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger.  They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, ‘All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!’ Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.  When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman.  Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, ‘Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?’   ‘No, Lord,’ she said.  And Jesus said, ‘Neither do I. Go and sin no more.’”  John 8:4-11 (NLT)

Since Jesus does not condemn, then how can I?  I choose forgiveness of sinners, and in doing so, I am justified in the eyes of God.  Is this because of my own righteousness?  No.  It’s because the penalty of sin was paid in full on the cross nearly two thousand years ago when God offered His only Son as a sacrifice for human sin.  We have been washed clean and justified in full by the blood of the Lamb in complete fulfillment of Old Testament Law.

2)  You don’t dare to try and FILTER and pick and choose from the word of God right? You don’t pull that nambie-pampy “out of context” silliness with passages you don’t like, but then wholeheartedly accept those you DO like?

You are correct to say that I never “try and filter and pick and choose from the word of God.”  The Old Testament Law is still in full force.  The Word of God never changes.  It is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

The penalty of sin is death.  However, that penalty has been paid by Jesus Christ.  So, as you say - we truly are “free with Jesus!”

May Glory and Honor be given to His name forever and ever.

And may God bless you.

Your friend in Christ,

Britt

[End of Response]

This email exchange is instructive.

Many people have a fundamental misunderstanding of the bible.  They read some of the teachings of the Old Testament and fail to see how they are compatible with the New Testament teachings of Jesus.  Believing the two contradict one another, they simply conclude that the bible is a fraud.  Yet nothing could be further from the truth!

Jesus foresaw this misunderstanding, and in order to avoid confusion, He reiterated His purpose:

“Don’t misunderstand why I have come.  I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets.  No, I came to accomplish their purpose.  I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved.”  Matthew 5:17-18 (NLT)

By failing to keep God’s law, all of humanity is condemned.  But due to the grace and mercy of God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ, the door is open for each and every sinner to be reconciled with God.  This is because, in fulfillment of the Old Testament Laws and the Old Testament Prophets, the blood sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross paid our debt in full.

Hundreds of years before the Gospels were written, the Prophet Isaiah foresaw this sacrifice:

“He was despised and rejected – a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief.  We turned our backs on him and looked the other way.  He was despised, and we did not care.  Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down.  And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins!  But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins.  He was beaten so we could be whole.  He was whipped so we could be healed.  All of us, like sheep, have strayed away.  We have left God’s paths to follow our own.  Yet the Lord laid on him the sins of us all.  He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word.  He was led like a lamb to the slaughter. And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth.  Unjustly condemned, he was led away.  No one cared that he died without descendants, that his life was cut short in midstream.  But he was struck down for the rebellion of my people.  He had done no wrong and had never deceived anyone.  But he was buried like a criminal; he was put in a rich man’s grave.  But it was the Lord’s good plan to crush him and cause him grief.  Yet when his life is made an offering for sin, he will have many descendants.  He will enjoy a long life, and the Lord’s good plan will prosper in his hands.  When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he will be satisfied.  And because of his experience, my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins.  I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier, because he exposed himself to death. He was counted among the rebels.  He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels.”  Isaiah 53:3-12 (NLT)

Jesus Christ didn’t come to abolish the Old Testament Law.  On the contrary, He’s the only one who ever adhered to it in full.  And Jesus didn’t come to condemn the Old Testament Prophets, but rather to fulfill to the letter everything they wrote.  For it was His coming they looked forward to with hopeful anticipation – the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

We should never forget this as we also look forward to His coming with hopeful anticipation.  May Glory and Honor be given to His name forever and ever!

If you find this site helpful, please consider a donation to support this ministry.<–>

How would you like to have a luxurious mansion with sweeping vistas, great neighbors, and perfect weather?  Even more so, how would you like to be given this mansion, free of charge?  Believe it or not, such an offer is on the table right now, and it can be yours for a limited time only.

If you’ve ever dreamed of having greater wealth than any person on earth, then you’ve come to the right place.  Keep on reading, and you’ll learn the details of the greatest real estate deal in human history.

It’s the offer of a lifetime.  Free real estate with no money down, and you don’t even have to pre-qualify or meet any net worth requirements.  You don’t need to be part of an exclusive fraternity or an alumnus of an elite college or university.  However, there is one catch – you do need to be well connected.  In order to close this once in a lifetime deal, you must have an intimate and personal relationship with the man who’s offering it.

The Offer

By now, most of you are skeptical.  Nothing’s free, right?  But I assure you, this is not a pyramid scheme or a late-night infomercial scam.  This offer comes from the most trustworthy person in the entire universe – Jesus of Nazareth.  You might better know Him by the name of Jesus Christ.

If you’ve spent most of your life chasing after the pleasures and luxuries of this world, then I ask you to take a moment of your time and consider the following offer from Jesus.  After all, it’s a pretty sweet deal.  He’s offering you a life of abundant wealth in a luxurious mansion with amenities beyond your wildest dreams, and best of all, the wealth He offers lasts forever!

But don’t take my word for it, this is what Jesus says:

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.  There is more than enough room in my Father’s home.  If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?  When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.  And you know the way to where I am going.”  John 14:1-4 (NLT)

What is this place that Jesus has prepared for those who trust in Him?  And what does it look like?  Luckily, the Book of Revelation describes it in detail:

“So he took me in the Spirit to a great, high mountain, and he showed me the holy city, Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God. It shone with the glory of God and sparkled like a precious stone – like jasper as clear as crystal. The city wall was broad and high, with twelve gates guarded by twelve angels. And the names of the twelve tribes of Israel were written on the gates. There were three gates on each side – east, north, south, and west. The wall of the city had twelve foundation stones, and on them were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.” Revelation 21:10-14 (NLT)

Chapters 21 and 22 of the Book of Revelation provide an in-depth description of the place Christ is preparing for His followers, a place which includes the very presence of God Himself:

“No longer will there be a curse upon anything. For the throne of God and of the Lamb will be there, and his servants will worship him. And they will see his face, and his name will be written on their foreheads. And there will be no night there – no need for lamps or sun – for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever.” Revelation 22:3-5 (NLT)

To all who wish to live in such a place and consume the water of life, the Lord Jesus Christ issues a freely issues this invitation:

“The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come.’ Let anyone who hears this say, ‘Come.’ Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life.” Revelation 22:17 (NLT)

The glory of what Christ offers is beyond comprehension, and the Return on Investment you’ll receive if you accept His offer is truly astronomical.  Just take a moment to consider the terms of His offer.  The real estate component alone makes it the best deal you’ll ever encounter – a luxurious mansion never in need of repair where God is your neighbor and you live forever while never growing hungry or thirsty for anything He can’t readily provide. 

Such a place is invaluable.  There’s no way to put a value on it, because there are no comparables.  This is a neighborhood completely unique unto itself, a truly one of a kind place, and anyone would be a fool to turn down a sweetheart deal like this one.

In fact, this real estate is so valuable, you should be willing to give up everything in order to make certain you close the deal.

Nothing is More Valuable

According to Jesus, nothing is of greater value than the Kingdom of Heaven.  You should be more than willing to give up everything you have in order to devote the rest of your life to obtaining it:

“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field.”  Matthew 13:44 (NLT)

“Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls.  When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!”  Matthew 13:45-46 (NLT)

The Kingdom of Heaven is so valuable, you should forsake everything else in an effort to obtain it.  For people of great wealth and high position in this world, an enormous amount of faith and self-discipline is required in order to exhibit a willingness to trade everything in this world for the reward that Christ offers.  But the payoff is immense.  That’s why Jesus warned us of the dangers presented by love of money and the material and physical pleasures of this world.

The Things Of This World

Because of the pitfalls associated with this world, the followers of Jesus must be careful not to allow their thoughts and ambitions to become captive to the things of this world.  The danger inherent in pursuing the wealth of this world lies in a lack of ambition to produce fruit for Christ:

“The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced.”  Matthew 13:22 (NLT)

We see this danger firsthand in the Gospel of Matthew, when a rich man expresses His desire to follow Christ:

“Jesus told him, ‘If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’ But when the young man heard this, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.”  Matthew 19:21-22 (NLT)

Despite his apparent willingness to follow Christ, and his acceptance of the words and deeds of Jesus as truth, the rich man is unwilling to accept Christ’s deal.  He is consciously unwilling to trade His earthly wealth for treasure in heaven.  As a result, He can never be a follower of Christ, because a person cannot serve two masters:

“No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”  Matthew 6:24 (NLT)

The man in question could’ve experienced wealth beyond his wildest imagination.  Unfortunately, because of his love for this world, he willingly traded the finest of pearls for a pile of ashes; He traded his buried treasure for a pile of counterfeit coins.  Don’t make the same mistake!

Would you place millions of dollars under a mattress instead of inside a bank?  Of course not!  The danger of fire or theft is too great.  Why then, should you treat your heavenly treasures any differently?  Too many people spend their lives hoarding earthly wealth, while their heavenly treasures go unclaimed:

“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal.  Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal.  Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.”  Matthew 6:19-21 (NLT)

Hoarding earthly treasures is utterly foolish.  Christ tells us so:

“A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops.  He said to himself, ‘What should I do? I don’t have room for all my crops.’  Then he said, ‘I know! I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I’ll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods.  And I’ll sit back and say to myself, ‘My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!’ But God said to him, ‘You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’ Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.”  Luke 12:16-21 (NLT)

What good is all the wealth in this world, if to attain it, you have to forfeit your soul?  Don’t be foolish.  A deep and intimate relationship with the Creator and Master of the Universe is far more rewarding than the fleeting comforts of this world.

Closing The Deal

So now that we’ve established what really matters, how does one go about closing the deal of a lifetime?

To properly close the deal requires humility:

“God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth.”  Matthew 5:5 (NLT)

Why is humility required?  Because to accept Christ’s offer, one must acknowledge His glory.  Obtaining the Kingdom of God independently is simply not an option.  It’s impossible.  Only one person can open the door to the Kingdom of Heaven – Jesus Christ:

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 (NLT)

To those who are willing to humble themselves and accept Christ’s sacrifice on the cross as payment for their sins, a Kingdom awaits – built on the foundation of Christ’s glory:

“Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world.  For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home.  I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.”  Matthew 25:34-36 (NLT)

The Kingdom of Heaven is yours to inherit.  It’s already yours if you simply lay claim to it, so don’t be worried when the world mocks you as foolish for accepting it.  To such people, the things of this world are perceived as valuable, while the rewards of Christ are perceived as worthless.  Don’t worry about what such people say.  Instead, pray for them.  For at one time, we were all as foolish as they are.  Pray they recognize the value of true treasure, to the very point of sacrificing their lives in order to obtain it: 

“God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers.  Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven.”  Matthew 5:11-12 (NLT)

Don’t let their ridicule divert your focus, for you have full knowledge of the reward which is just around the corner:

“God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.”  Matthew 5:10 (NLT)

Remember, our Lord Jesus Christ was Himself persecuted by this world.  What, then, makes us think we will encounter anything less? 

“You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them.  But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave.  For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”  Matthew 20:25-28 (NLT)

Follow the example of Jesus and serve others.  If you do, even the smallest act will be acknowledged by our Lord:

“And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded.”  Matthew 10:42 (NLT)

So don’t worry when others call you foolish.  Instead, trust with absolute faith that Jesus Christ will make good on His promise to reward you.  The return you will receive from serving Him is far greater than any financial return the world can offer:

“I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property – along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life.  But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.”  Mark 10:29-31 (NLT)

Despite what the world may tell you, you lose nothing of real value by following Christ.  In fact, it’s just the opposite – you gain everything!

It’s the deal of a lifetime, and all you have to do is accept it.  If you haven’t taken advantage Christ’s offer, I strongly encourage you to do so today.  Like all great deals, it’s available for a limited time only.  Once your life is over, the deal is no longer on the table.  Right now, it’s available free of charge to as many people as are willing to accept it.  It could all be yours – an opulent mansion with great neighbors.  A personal relationship with God Almighty.  Eternal life.  Wealth beyond belief.  It’s yours for the taking because Christ gave His life.  Only a fool would turn down such a sweetheart deal.  Don’t be a fool.

“That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, ‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.’”  1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT)

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (NLT)

If you find this site helpful, please consider a donation to support this ministry.

I recently had the pleasure of appearing as a guest on Live with Jeff & Lee on KKMS 980 AM in the Minneapolis / St. Paul area. The main topic of the one hour interview was “Recognizing Signs of Christ’s Return,” but a number of subjects were broached, including molecular manufacturing. For those who want to listen to the interview, an MP3 can be downloaded by clicking here. Some of the topics addressed include:

Peter’s Prophecy
Israel’s Re-Emergence
The War of Gog Magog
General Signs of Christ’s Return
The Role of Molecular Manufacturing

and more…

I praise God for this wonderful opportunity to share the Gospel over the airwaves, and I encourage all of you to share this audio file with friends and relatives.

Dear Readers,

Thank you for your prayers for my cousin Genevieve, 17, who recently underwent surgery for a brain tumor.  The power of prayer can move mountains, and if the followers of Jesus ask anything in His name, He will provide:

“I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you.  For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.”  Matthew 18:19-20 (NLT)

In this case, Jesus moved the mountain.  The surgery was a smashing success.  The tumor was encapsulated and non-cancerous.  Genevieve will be home soon and is expected to make a complete recovery!

Thank you for all your prayers.  They were very much appreciated.

Britt

Who was Jesus of Nazareth? For nearly two thousand years, the world has debated this question. Some say He was a prophet. Some think He was a madman. Still others think He was a great teacher. But for those who recognize His voice, the question is not ‘Who was Jesus of Nazareth?,’ but rather ‘Who is Jesus of Nazareth?’ Because unlike other men of history, Jesus of Nazareth was, is, and will be for all of eternity.

A careful examination of the historical record reveals that Jesus of Nazareth is nothing less than the Word of God dwelling as flesh among men. The Holy Spirit of God became a man and walked among us:

“In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1 (NLT)

“So the Word became human and made his home among us.” John 1:14 (NLT)

“In Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body.” Colossians 2:9 (NLT)

While most of the world’s people desperately search for truth – to become closer to God Almighty, the Creator of the Universe – the door is wide open for them to experience a personal relationship with that same God. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. His name is Jesus of Nazareth.

But don’t take my word for it. God has a number of identifiable character traits. If Jesus of Nazareth is worthy of the title of God Almighty and Lord of Heaven’s Armies, then the historical account of His life will reveal that He shared these unique traits. Let’s examine them.

Omniscient (All-Knowing)

The definition of God requires Him to be all-knowing. God must have knowledge of all things, including the thoughts of others. Did Jesus exhibit this character trait? Yes. He did.

History reveals a number of instances in which Jesus displayed His omniscience. Here, we’ll examine a few.

The Coin In The Fish – Jesus illustrated His knowledge of the future, as well as His knowledge of the most minute details of creation when He revealed to His disciples that they were to catch a fish, open its mouth, and find a large silver coin inside:

“Go down to the lake and throw in a line. Open the mouth of the first fish you catch, and you will find a large silver coin.” Matthew 17:27 (NLT)

The Samaritan Woman – Upon meeting a Samaritan woman, Jesus told her everything she had ever done. His knowledge was enough to convince her that He was the Messiah, and His words were enough to convince many in her town that He is the Living Son of God:

“Many Samaritans from the village believed in Jesus because the woman had said, ‘He told me everything I ever did!’” John 4:39 (NLT)

“You Know Everything” – The disciples, who spent more time with Jesus during His earthly ministry than anyone else, testified that He knows everything – the very definition of omniscience:

“Now we understand that you know everything, and there’s no need to question you. From this we believe that you came from God.” John 16:30 (NLT)

“A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, ‘Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.’” John 21:17 (NLT)

12-Year Old Jesus In The Temple – As a young boy, Jesus and His family made a pilgrimage to the Temple in Jerusalem. While there, Jesus amazed the Jewish religious teachers with His understanding:

“Three days later they finally discovered him in the Temple, sitting among the religious teachers, listening to them and asking questions. All who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.” Luke 2:46-47 (NLT)

“How Does He Know All This?” – Jesus taught in the Temple, and the people were amazed at the depth of His knowledge, since He was not a man educated and trained by men:

“Then, midway through the festival, Jesus went up to the Temple and began to teach. The people were surprised when they heard him. ‘How does he know so much when he hasn’t been trained?’ they asked.” John 7:14-15 (NLT)

“One Of You Will Betray Me” – Jesus had fore-knowledge of His betrayal. He knew that one of the most trusted members of His inner-circle would betray Him:

“Then Jesus said, ‘I chose the twelve of you, but one is a devil.’ He was speaking of Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, one of the Twelve, who would later betray him.” John 6:70-71 (NLT)

Jesus Knew Of His Death – Jesus had full knowledge of His purpose in coming into the world. He knew what would happen to Him