SEDUCTIONS of SAMHAIN a.k.a. HALLOWEEN

This entry is about the very old custom and tradition of the pagan holiday Samhain (pronounced 'SOW-wane'), known more recently as Halloween whose own origins are based somewhat on its preceding pagan holiday in a blending of the observance of Roman Catholic saints (the dead ones (their only kind), that is).

First, let's have some background on this day from Wikipedia:

Samhain (sɑːwɪn)[1] was a Gaelic harvest festival held on October 31–November 1. It was linked to festivals held around the same time in other Celtic cultures and was popularized as the "Celtic New Year" from the late 19th century, following Sir John Rhys and Sir James Frazer.[2] The date of Samhain was associated with the Catholic All Saints' Day (and later All Souls' Day) from at least the 8th century, and both the secular Gaelic and the Catholic liturgical festival have influenced the secular customs now connected with Halloween.[3]

The medieval Goidelic festival of Samhain marked the end of the harvest, the end of the "lighter half" of the year and beginning of the "darker half". It was celebrated over the course of several days and had some elements of a Festival of the Dead. Bonfires (read about the origins of 'bone fires' and related pagan practices of the Druids and later, the Celts here; note: this is a secular source) played a large part in the festivities. People and their livestock would often walk between two bonfires as a cleansing ritual, and the bones of slaughtered livestock were cast into its flames.[4]

Samhain is celebrated as a religious festival by some neopagans.[5]

Read more!

GOD’s PERFECT PLAN: The GOSPEL – Part 5: A Series Exploring The Biblical Overview

INTRODUCTION: In GENESIS 22, we saw how Abraham represented the Father Who was willing to sacrifice His own beloved Son; Isaac represented the willing Son Who laid down his life in obedience to His Father’s plan.

As discussed in Part 4, this was a kind of “spiritual skit” that played out the scene that would transpire on Golgotha centuries later when Christ out of obedience to the Father (and Himself, the willing Lamb of GOD slain from before the foundation of the Earth; REV 13:8b) would offer up His own life as the propitiatory atonement (the only acceptable sacrifice for our sins; JOHN 10:15,17-18).

Then the Holy Spirit very precisely inspired Moses as he penned this verse:

GENESIS 22:19
So Abraham returned to his young men, and they rose and went together to Beersheba; and Abraham dwelt at Beersheba.

Take note that Abraham and the young men are mentioned here, but not Isaac. Obviously it’s a foregone conclusion that Isaac went home and didn’t wander about the mountain top – but it’s interesting that the Holy Spirit didn’t expressly mention Isaac leaving with his father. Why is that?

We’ll get into that and how the entire triune GOD is portrayed in GENESIS 24 as well as the church!

Read more!

LIVING in LINEAR ASSUMPTIONS

It was a balmy, sunny and pleasant day in the ancient Italian city on August 23rd in A.D. 79. People milled about, on their various business, eating, drinking, visiting family and friends; children playing in the streets. Life was good.

The very next day, an unexpected disaster struck, an enormous volcanic eruption, killing the entire unsuspecting population of the city of Pompeii.

Jump to:

Colonial America in the 18th century, people were prospering with hopes of a new life, on a new continent. Farms were flourishing on land both fertile and plentiful. Here was a land one could raise a family in and look forward to generations of blessing!

Orthopoxvirus Variola Virus, also known as Smallpox, suddenly struck.

More than four hundred thousand people suffered and died before the plague ended.

Jump to:

Read more!

BUT JOY COMES IN THE MORNING – Where Do We Go From Here?

JOHN SCHNEIDER – CHARLIE’S WORDS

 

PSALM 102:18-22
18 This will be written for the generation to come, that a people yet to be created may praise the LORD. 19 For He looked down from the height of His sanctuary; from heaven the LORD viewed the earth, 20 to hear the groaning of the prisoner, to release those appointed to death, 21 to declare the name of the LORD in Zion, and His praise in Jerusalem, 22 when the peoples are gathered together, and the kingdoms, to serve the LORD.

This article and my prayers are for “the generation to come” and has in part, arrived already. To the people that have been “created”, or actually recreated in Christ in these recent days, and in the days to come – prisoners to sin being released, appointed for the salvation that’s sweeping through the land, and across globe. One blessed day, the people who are called by the Name of the LORD will be “gathered together” in heaven and serve the LORD in His manifest kingdom, just as we serve now, in this place.

We live in a dark world of woe, wickedness and woundings. Just as night is ushered in with the setting of the sun, the Son of GOD has ascended into the heavens and received by our Father, and while He is gone, the night of nefarious evil has settled in (ROM 13:12). But we as the church are called to reflect the LORD’s Light just as the Moon reflects the Sun, upon a world that would otherwise be enveloped in sheer blackness.

While we shall endure tribulations and hardships, pain and suffering because of a world under the curse of sin as well as the malice and destructive hatred by children of the dark, we understand that "weeping may endure for a night” (note: it says “may” which is an indefinite word; at any time we may or may not weep as we endure the night of adversities), but here’s something definitive: “joy [will!] come in the morning” when the Son appears at the horizon of Planet Rebyl, cast down the princes of darkness, most notably the Beast and False Prophet, and consign Satan to his millennial prison!

Let’s acknowledge that once we are with the LORD, we shall never, ever again set our feet upon a rebellious world, ruled by the god of this world (2 COR 4:4).

This article is Part TWO of Part ONE: WEEPING ENDURES FOR A NIGHT – Commentary on Charlie Kirk and our National Situation

Read more!

The G.E.P.C Study – PHILIPPIANS 2: Part Three

Going Through Paul’s epistles to Galatia, Ephesus, Philippi, and Colossae

INTRODUCTION: In Part Two of this study in Chapter 2, we examined at some length this passage:

PHILIPPIANS 2:5-7
5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 Who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.

“…made Himself of no reputation…” – in other words, He disrobed Himself of all His glory and power just so that He’d look like any one of us (The only time He let us peek at Him as He really is, was on the Mount of Transfiguration; MATT 28:3; MARK 9:3) and perhaps in the Garden of Gethsemane when He declared “I AM” (JOHN 18:5-8). Rather, He took upon Himself the form of a bondservant – this is GOD made flesh! He exemplified precisely what it means to be humble, and how He willingly humiliated Himself in order to serve us!

This is astonishing to me – that the Almighty would wash feet, reason with unreasonable religious hypocrites, minister to an inexhaustible degree for the needs of people in healings and provisions.

In continuing in this train of thought. We continue on now in Part Three of Chapter 2…

Read more!

Shine Bright Church Men's Mountain Retreat – The CHRIST: SON of the LIVING GOD

QUESTIONS are important – asking them is how we learn. Asking the right questions help us to find the right answers. Of all the questions of a lifetime, which question above all others is the most important, bar none – the one question that a human soul owes to ask itself before they die, with the intent of finding the answer?

It was the question that the LORD Himself asked:

MATTHEW 16:15, 16-17
15 … "But who do you say that I am?”

Your answer to that question will not only determine the course of your life, but your eternal destiny as well.
16 Simon Peter answered and said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." 17 Jesus answered and said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.

We who know the LORD have found the answer to that question, just as Peter did. Everyone needs to find it before they leave this world!

Read more!

WEEPING MAY ENDURE FOR A NIGHT

The Christian community across America and the globe is mourning the loss of a great American who was (and still is!) a godly influence in the nation and the church and most especially among our youth.

I’m speaking of Charles James Kirk, dutiful son, beloved husband and father, committed Christian, co-founder (along with Bill Montgomery) and president of TURNING POINT USA.
The website has the position of leader currently listed as “vacant”. I am intently praying that GOD answers our plea and fills that position not with one, but several leaders – and spreads to leadership raised up in chapters all across America (would you agree with me in prayer in this regard?).

Read more!

Ch. 3 in JOSHUA: CONQUERING The ENEMY, INHERITING The LAND

INTRODUCTION: Let’s review the five primary themes of this book, just to keep an overall perspective on what it’s all about.

FIVE PRIMARY THEMES of the Book:

1) SUCCESS – Success came when Israel obeyed GOD, trusting in GOD’s abilities, His promises, His faithfulness rather than their own military might and other human resources.

2) FAITH – By trusting GOD they would be assured of GOD’s salvation and leading. Observing GOD’s faithfulness gave them the faith to continue trusting in GOD.

3) GUIDANCE – GOD’s instructions to Israel for every aspect of life followed through by His faithful attendance to their needs and their GOD-given ability to claim the land promised to them.

4) LEADERSHIP – Joshua was an excellent leader, demonstrating his confidence in the LORD’s strength, being courageous in the face of opposition and willing to always seek GOD’s counsel.

5) CONQUEST – GOD commanded His people to conquer the land, bring judgment to the unrepentant Canaanites and acquire all of their land.

And as we discussed before, this book is divided into three sections:

1) ENTERING THE PROMISED LAND – the people of Israel cross over the Jordan into Canaan (JOSH 1:1-5:12)

2) CONQUERING THE PROMISED LAND – The nation begins their GOD-ordained mandate to take the land promised to them (JOSH 5:13-12:24)

3) DIVIDING THE PROMISED LAND – The twelve tribes received their land allotments. (JOSH 13:1-24:33)

Read more!

THE ONE WORLD LEADER, EVEN HIM, WHOSE COMING IS AFTER THE WORKING OF SATAN – PART TWO of TWO

In PART ONE we discussed many things regarding the preparation for the Beast's arrival. We'll continue now with discussing these things and conclude the article with a Profile of the Person of Perdition.

In articles at TTUF and The RED PILL Consortium, we have observed how many of the global organizations, preeminently the UN, possess esoteric writings and beliefs which run throughout their infrastructures of doctrine, specifically and accurately – the doctrine of demons (1 TIM. 4:1); again these doctrines come primarily through the Theosophical Society via Lucis Trust, World Goodwill and other organizations which represent UN NGO's (Non-Government Orgs.):

“The United Nations has long been one of the foremost world harbingers for the "New Spirituality" and the gathering "New World Order" based on ancient occult and free masonic principles.

Seven years after the birth of the UN, a book was published by the Theosophist and founder of the Lucis Trust, Alice Bailey, claiming that,

"Evidence of the growth of the human intellect along the needed receptive lines [for the preparation of the New Age] can be seen in the "planning" of various nations and in the efforts of the United Nations to formulate a world plan... From the very start of this unfoldment, three occult factors have governed the development of all these plans"

[Alice B. Bailey, Discipleship in the New Age (Lucis Press, 1955), Vol. II, p.35.]”

Read more!

THE ONE WORLD LEADER, EVEN HIM, WHOSE COMING IS AFTER THE WORKING OF SATAN – PART ONE of TWO

The Beast or anti-Christ will not appear magically on the world scene and assume a kingdom, spontaneously conjured with a wave of his satanically powered 'magic wand'. In order to establish the reign of anti-Christ, Satan has had much work to do in preparing to achieve his end goal.

2 THESSALONIANS 2:9
Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,

All the power of Satan, the host of fallen angels at his command, and his kingdom of darkness are all being used to bring about conditions conducive to the reception of the Beast on planet Earth and for the establishment of his One World Order.

Various “signs” are pointing the way by this insidious Pied Piper of Perdition. Lying wonders are being utilized to mesmerize humanity into a sense of destiny that will destroy it, outside of repentance and salvation of Jesus Christ.

Read more!

TRIUMPHANT TRILOGIES – JOHN 12,13 & 14: Examining Ch. 14 – Part 2 of 3

TRIUMPHANT TRILOGIES – Examining JOHN 12,13 & 14

Examining JOHN 14 – Part 2 of 3

Introduction: This portion of Ch. 14 is very relational in its content. There is the relationship that the Father has with the Son, and the Son with the Father – then there is the Holy Spirit. There is the relationship we saints have with Christ, and with the Father and the Spirit.

We are part of the family of GOD, no longer orphans (vs. 18), but adopted (ROM 8:15,23; GAL 4:5; EPH 1:5). This isn’t the typical idea of adoption we know here in the West. In Greek culture a mature male adult (not a relative) would sometimes be adopted to carry on the family line. At such a time they are “adopted” – in the sense that they are bequeathed all of the authority and privileges of the family name.

We were outside the family of GOD, but He adopted us as His own through none other than the LORD Jesus Christ Himself.

The text also deals with our labors, and how we are to draw from the Spirit, the way that the Son did during His earthly ministry. One might say we’re in “the family business”! But isn’t it truly a labor of love?

As I’ve said before: Only in working in the Kingdom of GOD can we find rest for our souls (MATT 11:28-30)!

Read more!

WALKING In WISDOM - PROVERBS 26:15-28 The Lazy Liar, And The Slanderous Sinner

INTRODUCTION: The ruler of this present age is Satan, aka the father of lies. And if the ruler is a pathological liar, what can be said of the people he rules over? If you take a good long look at our society and start marking all of the lies, deceptions, scandals and cover-ups, pretty soon you’ll realize we are surrounded by mostly lies!

Check out the SHINE BRIGHT Church teaching and watch it here!

“Socialism is a good thing!”
“Evolution is science!”
“People are basically good.”
“It’s just a clump of cells!”
“We’re all GOD’s children!”
“All paths lead to GOD!” In a way, this one IS true; all paths DO lead to GOD in Judgment and condemnation except for one path, and ONE path ONLY! – the one path of life that is Christ, the Way to the Father.

Read more!

BUILDING WITH THE CHARACTER OF CHRIST

Listen to this message as taught at SHINE BRIGHT Church in Tucson, AZ.

John the Apostle was given “The Revelation of Jesus Christ” that we recognize as being not only the last book of the Bible, but the final revelation of inspired Scripture delivered to us from the heart of GOD.

Let’s turn to REVELATION 5 where the all-important question of the ages was asked regarding the title deed (indicating ownership) of the Earth, that’s described there as a “scroll written inside and on the back, sealed with seven seals”: The question: “Who is worthy to open the scroll and to loosen its seals?”

Who can claim ownership? Notice that when this question was asked, Satan didn’t step forward and make that claim, even though currently, temporarily he is the ruler of this present world system (2 COR 4:4).

Read more!

MILLENNIAL REIGN OF CHRIST In The Old Testament - A SUMMARY of the TTUF series

The following is a brief summary of a TTUF series on the Millennium, seventeen articles in all.

To hear this teaching in audio, visit the SHINE BRIGHT Church YouTube Channel by clicking here!

What is the “Millennium” all about? What’s its purpose – for Israel? for the church? For the world at large? What will transpire during this time? Will it be 'heaven on earth' then without any trace of sin, corruption and rebellion? Will everyone be saved at that time?

For Israel, it will be the fulfillment of all GOD’s promises to Abraham, to David, and the nation of Israel as a whole.

For the church, it will be a time when we saints shall rule and reign with Christ in our glorified state.

For the people of the world who have managed to survive the tribulation period of seven years and enter into the Millennium as believers, their children will need to obey the Gospel for salvation just as we do today. And some of them will – some won’t.

For the subsequent generations of Millennials (not those we recognize today), they will live in paradise, free from poverty, sickness, oppression, crime, free from all of the influences of a wicked, corrupt society. They will not experience temptations and deceptions by Satan and all of the fallen angels and demons because they will all be consigned to the abyss during the entire time of the Millennium (REV. 20:1-3).

This “proving ground” will demonstrate the wickedness of the human heart. At the end of this 1,000 year period, Satan will be loosed from his prison and given the opportunity to raise up another rebellion, and PEOPLE WILL STILL FOLLOW HIM AND BE DISLOYAL TO KING JESUS!

Read more!

GOD’s PERFECT PLAN: The GOSPEL – Part 4: A Series Exploring The Biblical Overview

INTRODUCTION: So, what do we have so far in regard to GOD revealing His Perfect Plan? Let’s review some of what we have seen up to GENESIS 11, shall we?

We have the Creation Week, Six Days of GOD’s handiwork, followed by the 7th where GOD rested (not that He was tired – the Hebrew word simply means “to cease from labor… to complete work”, which He did, and declared it not just “good” but “very good” because He saved the best for last on the sixth day – the creation of Adam and Eve!

Here we have the institution of marriage between husband and wife, for the purpose of communing, fellowship and the raising up of a family – all of which is a type of Christ and His bride (EPH 5:31-32; REV 19:7) and the desire of GOD to create His forever family (JOHN 1:12-13; EPH 3:15; 1:5-7)!

Read more!

The G.E.P.C Study – PHILIPPIANS 2: Part Two

Going Through Paul’s epistles to Galatia, Ephesus, Philippi, and Colossae

INTRODUCTION: Salvation from a theological and doctrinal perspective is both simple and profound; it’s also very deep and intricately complex. It’s a general term that refers to all of the redemptive processes that GOD uses in the operation of justifying, sanctifying and glorifying the repentant sinner turned to righteous saint. Involved in this process is also atonement, propitiation, substitution, calling and election, imputation, conversion, regeneration and adoption. In Systematic Theology, this study of salvation and all of it's component parts is called Soteriology.

It's quite easy to get these mixed up and misapplied, especially for those who haven’t studied them from the Scriptures. This can quite often lead to a works-based salvation or at the other end of the scale, a Gospel that needs no repentance and supposedly saves everyone (Universalism).

For an examination of many of these biblical words, check out the following three part TTUF series as taught by pastor Sonny Islas (SHINE BRIGHT Church, Tucson, AZ) and myself: DEFINITION Of BIBLICAL WORDS: PART One, PART Two, PART Three!

In the following two verses we have just such an example of how misunderstanding of what Scripture teach us can happen. We must be careful to note what it says as well as what it does not say. But before we get into vss. 12-13, we need to set things up. Please be patient, we have a lot to set up!

Read more!

Ch. 2 in JOSHUA: CONQUERING The ENEMY, INHERITING The LAND

INTRODUCTION: Wherever you find yourself in life, GOD is already fifty steps ahead of you, no – one hundred steps… OK, because He knows the end from the beginning of all creation as well as your tiny, little life, He knows every step of your way, from start to finish.

Does that comfort you? Does it give you confidence in this life, knowing that the Almighty GOD, the All-knowing One, Who loves you supremely (He sent His Son to die for your sin so that you could have an eternal relationship with GOD as your very own Abba Father!) is watching over your every move, is entirely aware – not at all surprised or caught off guard – when sudden tragedy strikes, or some unforeseen challenge seems to stop you in your tracks.

Joshua and the children of Israel are learning these lessons to an even greater degree. Remember, this is the second generation of Israel that has entered into the promised land. These were children during the exodus, so they were aware to one degree or another, of all that GOD did through His servant Moses. Now as grown adults, they are witnessing the everlasting and all-providing hand of GOD as He led them from one challenge to the next.

All that GOD required was their unwavering trust and commitment to be completely obedient to His every Word! It’s the same with us, isn’t it?

Read more!

TRIUMPHANT TRILOGIES – Examining JOHN 14 – Part 1 of 2

TRIUMPHANT TRILOGIES – Examining JOHN 12,13 & 14

Examining JOHN 14 – Part 1 of 2

Introduction: Last time from Ch. 13 we read the following verses:

JOHN 13:33
33 "Little children, I shall be with you a little while longer. You will seek Me; and as I said to the Jews, 'Where I am going, you cannot come,' so now I say to you.

It was for this reason that the hearts of the disciples were troubled. Yet, the LORD – always the Encourager – addresses this here (remember, chapter breaks are not inspired, so you can read uninterrupted from Ch. 13 to Ch. 14 as this is the same scenario within the same time frame):

JOHN 14:1-3
1 "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 "In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.

Read more!

PROVERBS 25:20-28 Pondering the Profound Proverbs: Ministering in Meekness

You can also hear this teaching on the SHINE BRIGHT YouTube Channel here!

It states in:

GALATIANS 5:13-14
13 For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. 14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

Meekness is lowliness, it’s having yourself under control, it’s esteeming others more highly than yourself. Being recipients of the grace of GOD, we have been made free from sin, we have obtained liberty by which we have opportunity to love and serve the LORD, and others.

Aside from saving our souls from the just condemnation of our holy GOD and Judge, saving us from eternal punishment, and saving us for the kingdom of GOD as its holy citizens and a blessed relationship with the LORD – we are also redeemed so that we can serve one another and make an impact in this world for the glory of GOD!

Read more!

The G.E.P.C Study – PHILIPPIANS 2: Part One Going Through Paul’s epistles to Galatia, Ephesus, Philippi, and Colossae

INTRODUCTION: Suffering is not a desirable experience; we try to avoid it as much as possible. Look into any medicine cabinet and you’ll find all sorts of pills for pain and alleviation from suffering. But suffering in this fallen world is unavoidable. The LORD Jesus said so:

“In the world you will have tribulation…” JOHN 16:33b. There are over 100 references in the KJV for the word “trouble”. Twenty six references for the word “tribulation(s)”

For the Christian who acknowledges GOD’s sovereignty over their lives as LORD, we understand nothing happens to us apart from His will (either for His purpose or with His permission). We sometimes struggle with the “why” question when we realize that GOD could have prevented such trials and tribulations but chose not to.

When reflecting on the life of Job and his complaints to GOD, there is never an answer to the question “why”! There may not be an answer that we with our finite minds could understand, and even if we did understand it, it probably wouldn’t bring much comfort anyway.

Rather than asking “why” what if we ask “what…” as in “what lesson do You want me to learn through this experience, LORD?” Because of the fact that He allows bad things to happen to us means He intends on teaching us some valuable lessons that will build our faith and strengthen our relationship with Him:

ROMANS 5:3-5
3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

And the grace and comfort we receive from the LORD during such troublesome trials and tribulations (that sometimes seem interminable!) are precious resources that GOD expects us to “pay forward”!

2 CORINTHIANS 1:3-5
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ.

Read more!

GOD’s PERFECT PLAN: The GOSPEL – Part 3: A Series Exploring The Biblical Overview

INTRODUCTION: Everything in the Bible ultimately either points to Christ by analogy and, or by type, or used in contrast to the perfection that is Christ (whether those contrasts are human or angelic). Every place name, every substantial idiom, persons by type, themes, doctrinal truths in some or in many ways all point to Christ, the very focal point of the Holy Revelation of GOD in the Bible.

As mentioned before, if you think of the Bible as a wagon wheel with sixty-six spokes, where Christ is the hub, you can appreciate that this book is literally, “all about Jesus Christ our LORD”.

PSALM 40:7
Then I said, "Behold, I come; In the volume of the book it is written of Me.

LUKE 24:44
Then He said to them, "These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me."

And in order to introduce the Messiah in our world, prophetic Scripture is laid out to properly and gloriously present Him and His Gospel. This is why no detail in the Scripture is inconsequential or irrelevant – at all. In fact, the more years we put into the study of the Scriptures, the more we recognize that JESUS is on every page!

We’ll pick up where we left off, with Noah and the ark.

Read more!

PROVERBS 25:11-19 Conduct Counts & Words Can Heal or Hurt

PROVERBS 25:11-12
11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold In settings of silver. 12 Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold Is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear.

Catch the video of this teaching from the SHINE BRIGHT Church YouTube Channel (Address: 433 W. Lerdo Rd., Tucson, AZ)
Counsel given at the right time, the right place, with just the right words is a beautiful thing, served beautifully – like golden apples on a silver platter; but only so much as it has an obedient ear to listen to such counsel.

A wise rebuker won’t be overly harsh, but nor will they be extraordinarily soft either. A wise rebuker knows the balance between grace and truth. We think of a rebuke as something necessarily harsh, but the Bible makes the distinction between a rebuke (2 TIM 4:2) and a sharp rebuke (TITUS 1:13). Then there is an admonition (1 THESS 5:12), and exhortation (1 THESS 4:1).

Read more!

Ch. 1 in JOSHUA: CONQUERING The ENEMY, INHERITING The LAND – PART TWO

INTRODUCTION: Picture yourself as one of those Hebrews – ex-slaves of Egypt, traveling through the wilderness, heading towards what Moses had declared to be the land that GOD promised to the forefathers. It’s been decades and there is no promised land in sight. You look at your children and wonder how much longer can they endure this arduous trek.

On top of that, those children heard their parents, grumbling, complaining, murmuring about their situation, all motivated by hearts of unbelief. But the second generation who grew into adulthood by the end of their journey, did express faith in the LORD, and the LORD delivered! – in more ways than one!

Now their eyes have seen the Jordan River; they’ve laid twelve stones in it, and another twelve on the riverbank as a testimony to remember what GOD had done for them.

Then they are told to prepare to enter into Canaan by gathering up provisions (and the formidable task of breaking camp for some millions of people!) and in three days (a significant number) they’ll be crossing over. Not only were they anticipating some good fortune but were probably apprehensive as well about the unknown. How much more so for their leadership, and especially Joshua!

Read more!

The G.E.P.C Study – PHILIPPIANS 1 – Part Two

Going Through Paul’s epistles to Galatia, Ephesus, Philippi, and Colossae

INTRODUCTION: We can look at disappointments, set-backs, failures with a dejected attitude and feel like giving up, giving in to disillusionment, discouragement, even bitterness. At such challenging times in our lives, we must come back around to acknowledge that the LORD is sovereign, that He has a calling and a course for each one of us His children.

NO OBSTACLE WILL BE ABLE TO KEEP GOD’s WILL FROM OUR LIVES AS WE TRUST IN HIM, YIELD TO HIM, FOLLOW HIM!

The apostle Paul was on a roll; his missionary work was flourishing! People were getting saved left and right! But then something happened that brought his work to a screeching halt: yet it didn’t keep the LORD from working through others!

This apostolic letter is one of a few “prison epistles” (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon and 2 Timothy) that, if Paul was never arrested, he might not have had the time to write them (as he was blazing from the Middle East into Europe with the Gospel of Jesus Christ). In this one instant alone, we can see where GOD brings blessing out of what appears to be an obstacle.

Continuing on now with Part 2 of Chapter One…

Read more!

TRIUMPHANT TRILOGIES – Examining JOHN 12,13 & 14

Examining JOHN 13 – Part TWO

Introduction: Just as first impressions are lasting ones, so too are last words most impressionable. Timothy understood this when his father in the faith, apostle Paul wrote his last letter to him (2 TIMOTHY).

These are among the last words that our LORD would speak with His disciples prior to the Cross and His death. Yet unlike Paul, the apostles didn’t hear the last from Him! As the saying goes, “You just can’t keep a good man down!” Only in this case, we’re talking about the ONLY Good Man ever to be born (MATT 19:17)!

At this point in the chapter, the apostles are baffled by the LORD’s statement, “One of you will betray Me.” That must have really rocked their world! Imagine how they all must have looked at one another, completely mystified! I can picture Judas however, averting any eye contact with the others…

JOHN 13:23-27
23 Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved. 24 Simon Peter therefore motioned to him to ask who it was of whom He spoke. 25 Then, leaning back on Jesus' breast, he said to Him, "Lord, who is it?" 26 Jesus answered, "It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it." And having dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. 27 Now after the piece of bread, Satan entered him. Then Jesus said to him, "What you do, do quickly."

Read more!

GOD’s PERFECT PLAN: The GOSPEL – Part 2: A Series Exploring The Biblical Overview

INTRODUCTION: We continue now in this study, observing and tracing the plan that GOD has set forth to proclaim and initiate the Gospel Agenda, though Satan did his best to run interference and prevent it from taking place.

He failed, and this demonstrates GOD supreme authority and sovereignty!

He tried to prevent “the seed” from crushing him by goading Cain (I have no doubt he did!) into murdering his brother Abel. When that didn’t work, Satan used a tactic that many find quite bizarre!

Read more!

Ch. 1 in JOSHUA: CONQUERING The ENEMY, INHERITING The LAND PART ONE

INTRODUCTION: The great Leader and Law Giver of Israel, the one that GOD used as the Deliverer of the Hebrew slaves died. Up to that point, Joshua was accustomed to a supporting role to Moses. He was also placed in charge of Israel’s armies.

Towards the end of his ministry Moses was called by GOD to meet Him at the Tabernacle of Meeting. And he was told to bring Joshua with him…

NUMBERS 27:18-23
18 And the LORD said to Moses: "Take Joshua the son of Nun with you, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him; 19 "set him before Eleazar the priest and before all the congregation and inaugurate him in their sight. 20 "And you shall give some of your authority to him, that all the congregation of the children of Israel may be obedient. 21 "He shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall inquire before the LORD for him by the judgment of the Urim. At his word they shall go out, and at his word they shall come in, he and all the children of Israel with him-all the congregation." 22 So Moses did as the LORD commanded him. He took Joshua and set him before Eleazar the priest and before all the congregation. 23 And he laid his hands on him and inaugurated him, just as the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses (See also DEUT. 31:3-8; 14-23).

After a rather significant, serious blunder on the part of Moses, the LORD ended his career, stating that he would not lead Israel into the promised land. That mission would go to Joshua (NUM 20:11-12).

If you’ve ever been asked to fill the shoes of your mentor, someone that you’ve held the highest respect for – you know something about how Joshua must have felt. Even Scripture itself states that there was never another prophet like Moses (DEUT 34:10). How could Joshua possibly live up to that?

This is why GOD had to keep reassuring this man (JOSH 1:5-9).

This story begins at the riverfront of the Jordan, where Joshua and Israel are about to crossover into Canaan land…

Read more!

Study in PROVERBS 25:1-9 About KINGS, COURTS, CONUNDRUMS & CORRUPTION

Introduction: True Wisdom in the Christian is born of the Holy Spirit; we can't have wisdom without GOD and His Word of Truth.

As we continue to go through Proverbs, let's understand that we are just as dependent on GOD for real wisdom as we are for salvation!

PROVERBS 25:1-2
1 These also are proverbs of Solomon which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied: 2 It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, but the glory of kings is to search out a matter.

Read more!

The G.E.P.C Study – PHILIPPIANS 1 – Part One

Going Through Paul’s epistles to Galatia, Ephesus, Philippi, and Colossae

INTRODUCTION: Philippi was, early on in Roman history, a city held in high esteem, having a port nearby and considerable gold mines that were still profitable. Paul the apostle left Troy and entered into Europe on his second missionary journey, due to a vision he received from GOD and first preached in Philippi (located in the province of Macedonia) and established the first church in the region, starting with a convert by the name of Lydia, an affluent woman, a trader in fabrics and dyes.

We read about Paul’s time in Philippi in ACTS 16:12-40.

It was during his first internment in Ephesus (or possibly Caesarea or perhaps even Rome) that he wrote this epistle to the Philippians. While he was quite hopeful for a release, it was far from a certainty. This might have meant an end to his ministry had not the LORD intervened!

Doctor Luke was from Philippi (but most likely born in Antioch) and probably attended a school there where he studied medicine, which would explain his affinity for this city and the church there. He joined the missionary team that the apostle assembled and helped to minister to the relatively new church but then remained behind to continue ministry there when Paul and Company moved on. Note the “we” in ACTS 16:10 – implying that the writer of ACTS (being Luke himself) – joined the team but then remained in Philippi once Paul moved on by the “they” in ACTS 17:1. There’s textual evidence that Luke rejoined the team on two subsequent occasions.

Paul returned to visit Philippi after he left Ephesus, again traveling to the region of Macedonia (2 COR 2:12-3; 7:5) and once more sometime later (ACTS 20:3). The apostle maintained regular communication with the Philippian church by way of messengers as well (ACTS 18:5; 19:22; 2 COR 11:9; PHIL 2:25).

The theme for this epistle has long been known as “joy in the midst of suffering” and we will see this theme again and again through this letter.

Read more!

GOD’s PERFECT PLAN: The GOSPEL – Part 1: A Series Exploring The Biblical Overview

INTRODUCTION: You can explain the Gospel to someone between two to three minutes and in such a way that even a child can understand it. So why is an entire series needed to explore the Gospel? The Gospel will be central to these articles, but they will encompass the entirety of the plan GOD set forth to bring the Gospel to fallen humanity.

Have you ever sat down and really thought about all that GOD would have to do in order to prepare for His Son, the Word made flesh to come to Earth and deliver the Gospel? And what about all of the ramifications of the Gospel, how it would work in the lives of those who received it?

MANDATE IN ETERNITY, IN TIME

Before GOD even began His work of creation, He existed from all of eternity, self-existent and self-defining, Three Persons in One Godhead. What does the Trinity (or triune GOD) have to do with the Gospel? Much! As we will (eventually) learn!

Then was the decision made in the halls of eternity, in the domain of the Third Heaven where GOD the Father would send GOD the Son to Earth as the propitiation for the sins of the world. That happened even before GOD said, “Let there be light.”

Then He began His creation – the entire angelic host that dwelled with Him in the Third Heaven, and possibly in the world before the creation of Man (?). Over the course of six days, He set in order all of the Earth with its firmaments, the separation of land and water, the establishment of the sun, moon and stars. He created life in the skies, on the Earth and in the seas.

Then came the pinnacle of His creation! His masterpiece: forming man from the dust of the Earth and breathing into him, creating a living soul. He placed Adam in the Garden of Eden and explained His one and single prohibition: Do not partake of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.

Adam named all of the animals – a monumental task, naming everything from the immense whales, down to aphids. No doubt he noticed that they all had a mate – unlike himself, who was alone…

Then GOD put Adam into a deep sleep, took a rib and with that formed a helper for Adam – the woman Eve.
All was well in paradise, that is, until the serpent (“seraphim” in the Hebrew) entered the picture. The idea of Adam, and that which came from Adam’s rib – the woman, is also very pertinent to the Gospel. More on this later on in subsequent articles!

Read more!

PROVERBS 24:23-28 A GOD Of FAITHFULNESS And WITHOUT INJUSTICE

PROVERBS 24:23-28
23 These things also belong to the wise: It is not good to show partiality in judgment. 24 He who says to the wicked, "You are righteous," Him the people will curse; Nations will abhor him. 25 But those who rebuke the wicked will have delight, And a good blessing will come upon them. 26 He who gives a right answer kisses the lips. 27 Prepare your outside work, Make it fit for yourself in the field; And afterward build your house. 28 Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, For would you deceive with your lips?

PROVERBS 24:23
These things also belong to the wise: It is not good to show partiality in judgment.

We can say that all of the verses in PROVERBS, and the entire Revelation of GOD’s Word, expressions of divine wisdom “belongs to the wise”. The Holy Scriptures are our heritage, our foundation, in a sense – they are our custodianship (we keep the Word of GOD in our hearts). As Disciples of Christ Who is the Word made flesh, the source of all knowledge, all wisdom, all grace, mercy and peace, the Holy Word is the source for our spiritual food and life, our faith and belief, our conduct, the source of the culture of the Kingdom of GOD that we belong to!

Justice – or “judgment” is part of this Kingdom. The LORD is just, righteous, fair and equitable. He doesn’t allow His justice to be marred by bias or partiality. Justice is rendered to all those who are guilty of violating His Holy Law, with one exception, and only one!

Read more!

STUDY In NEHEMIAH – Completing the Series: TRIUMPH by TRANSFORMATION – Chapter 13, Pt. 1 & 2

INTRODUCTION: As was mentioned previously, the mission of Nehemiah was to restore the walls of Jerusalem and the management of the city. He was likewise involved in the restoration of the people of Jerusalem, which was the primary focus of Ezra the priest’s mission.

In this last chapter of this amazing book of Nehemiah, this godly man was indeed involved in restoring, “resetting”, and even rebuking the people of Jerusalem for their wayward behaviors after a twelve year departure by Nehemiah who returned to the King Artaxerxes as his cupbearer for a time.

There will never be a time in our lives when we won’t need exhortation, admonition and correction. As one who has walked with the LORD for over 44 years, I know for a fact that I’m in need of the LORD and all of the ways He brings correction, guidance, and discipline to me.

This happens when I read the Scripture and trials that enter into my life with the LORD’s stamp of approval. But like with Israel, the LORD’s intent is for my good, and for His glory!

So, let’s get into this last chapter and see what the LORD will tell us!

If this is your first time checking out this study on Nehemiah, you can start with this link to CHAPTER One.

Read more!

MOSES BEGINS HIS JOURNEY

Almost any superhero movie starts out with an origin story. How did Batman Begin? How did the Caped Crusader come to be? What happened to Dr. Bruce Banner that he became a raging, green Hulk? There’s backstory that the moviegoer witnesses that explains who the lead character is, how they became a superhero and why.

As we look at Moses’ origin story (he was no superhero, but he was certainly heroic!), we discover that Jacob and his twelve sons settled in Egypt as a result of a devastating regional famine. That terrible event is what brought Jacob to be reunited with Joseph, whom he thought was slain by a beast, and started the process rolling for Israel’s destiny.

They entered Egypt as a family, but they left in the exodus as a nation; GOD Himself taking them by the hand (like a parent, gently, slowly, carefully leading their precious little one who toddles along; JER 31:32) and leading them to the Promised Land, with Moses at the head of the line…

EXODUS begins with the word “Now…” in Chapter 1, verse 1 because it picks up where GENESIS leaves off in this narrative, even though it was 300 years since the death of Joseph, second youngest son of Jacob. And this story has to do with another of Jacob’s twelve sons, Levi – or more accurately a son of Levi: Moses…

Read more!

FIVE GREAT LIGHTS: PARTS FOUR & FIVE - Humanity Is Without Excuse

We are now going to conclude our series titled FIVE GREAT LIGHTS - Humanity is Without Excuse.

The five great lights are as follows (for each one of these LIGHTS, we will include a hyperlink to the corresponding teaching that pastor Sonny gave at SHINE BRIGHT Church):

1.THE LIGHT OF CREATION.

2. THE LIGHT OF CONSCIENCE.

3.THE LIGHT OF CONDEMNATION.

We will conclude with the Fourth and Fifth GREAT LIGHT OF GOD

4. THE LIGHT OF COMMANDMENTS.

5. THE LIGHT OF CHRIST.

God in His kindness has chosen to reveal Himself to mankind. The Creator has made Himself known to His beloved creatures - leaving everyone “without excuse” at the final Judgment. In ancient times, it was said that “all roads lead to Rome.” In time past and today all roads lead to the final judgment.

Jesus and divine truth rejecters will meet with God at the Great White Throne Judgement (REV 20) while genuine Jesus and divine truth lovers will meet with God at the Judgment (Bema) Seat of Christ also known as the judgment of rewards (1 COR 3).

Read more!

G.E.P.C. Series - Entire Teaching on the Epistle to the EPHESIANS

The book of Ephesians explains how the Church comes to full spiritual maturity in Christ. Perhaps more than any other book of the bible, the Book of Ephesians emphasizes the connection between SOUND DOCTRINE and RIGHT PRACTICE in the Christian life.
The first part describes the Good News of what God has done (EPH 1-3).
The second section gives instructions on how to live in light of those blessings (EPH 4-5).
Ephesians ends with an encouragement to stand firm in the face of any hardships (EPH 6).

Read more!

The G.E.P.C Study – GALATIANS 6: Part 2 of 2

Going Through Paul’s epistles to Galatia, Ephesus, Philippi, and Colossi

A spiritual principle follows the same principle in the physical, and in particular, farming. Plant a lot of seed, reap a lot of harvest. Plant sparingly, reap sparingly. And in the spiritual domain, there’s no fooling GOD. You might fool your pastor, you might fool your church, you might even be able to fool your own family – possibly even your spouse.

But there is no fooling GOD. He sees all, He knows all. He’ll see to it that whatever we sow, we will harvest. If one sows to the Spirit, one will reap life everlasting; if sown to the flesh, one will reap corruption.

GALATIANS 6:7-9
7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

So, may we be encouraged to do what’s right, sow to the Spirit – invest in your relationship with the LORD! Allow Him to do the work in you that He greatly desires to do which will bless you, and others, as well as bring glory to Himself (much deserved of course!). Even if we sow, and sow, and sow, and we’re not seeing a lot of results. No matter! Keeping going! The Scripture states that we “shall reap IF we don’t lose heart”!

Read more!

STUDY In The Book of NEHEMIAH TRIUMPH by TRANSFORMATION – Chapter TWELVE

INTRODUCTION: In studying chapter 12 of this treatment, I’m confronted with the fact that the building of the wall around Jerusalem was paramount to the peace, prosperity and productivity of the Jewish people. Without it, none of the rest would have been possible.

In our lives as biblical Christians, we must have the “walls of truth” protect us from the insidious seductions, allurements and enticements, to say nothing of the virulent attacks by Satan himself. There is also the wall of prayer, by which we intercede for ourselves, our loved ones, our pastors and church leaders.

There is a lot in our media today about borders and walls. It’s important to note that GOD intended that there would be separate, sovereign nations, and any globalism apart from the one world government that will be founded by and upon Christ is inspired by the occult.

Nations are meant to keep their cultural, societal and governmental distinctions just as GOD preserved the nation of Israel during the days of Nehemiah, Ezra and Zerubbabel. GOD’s vision was completed at this time, and the nation grew once again for more than four centuries, despite being ruled over by Gentile powers.

There will come a day when Israel will accept Jesus as their Messiah and this will inaugurate the Kingdom of Israel, and then, any walls will serve decorative purposes only!

Read more!