WHAT WILL HEAVEN REALLY BE LIKE - Part 2

Have you ever stopped to think that on this planet is where almost the entire story of redemption will take place? Only for a thousand-year period will we live in heaven where our Heavenly Father dwells and where Christ went to prepare mansions (we will study the millennium later).

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.*1

The servant of the Lord mentions that other worlds exist but that they have not fallen. Don’t for a moment think that God with his infinite power and in this vast universe has only created one world. Each of these worlds also has a tree of knowledge of good and evil but unfortunately only the human race decided to eat its fruit.


Lucifer cast out of heaven onto earth

So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. *2

Despite the fall of man, God through Jesus became man, lived, suffered, died and rose again so that we could have an opportunity to be saved.

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life— the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us—*3

Many have established the concept that there is now a hell (we will discuss this issue in the study of the millennium). In reality however, hell will be on this earth for a period of time. Interestingly enough, our heaven will also be on this earth.

I ask this question. Where is Satan now, where are the fallen angels? We find in Scripture that.

…the LORD said to Satan, “From where do you come?” So Satan answered the LORD and said, “From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth on it.” *4

Satan and his demons are here in our midst. We would like to think that he is in hell, perhaps because it gives us a better sense of security but he is among us now. Hell will be here because when the Holy City comes down out of heaven, after the fulfillment of a thousand years all will be destroyed by the consuming fire of God. Then the earth will be purified, not only restored to its original state but enhanced much more. That is why heaven for us will also be here on earth because Jesus will dwell with us here for all eternity.

It is the Lord's desire to restore humanity and this world to its original state. We shall be clothed with immortality. We will have houses in the city and build our own, we will work the land, planting vineyards, we will play instruments and worship Jesus, we will visit other worlds, we will enjoy the company of saints, enjoy our families and friends, and eat the best food that has ever existed the fruit from the tree of life.*5

Have you thought about everything that Jesus has done for us? Although as sinners we deserve death He died in our place. Now He intercedes for us but the door of grace is closing. Christ is at hand for the holy are claiming for his return. This world offers nothing more than a moment of empty happiness. The Lord is coming and the story of this world is coming to an end!

Take this to heart; keep your eyes on Christ and the heavenly things because they are eternal. Let heaven become a reality; let heaven become a necessity!

JESUS IS COMING!

1 * Genesis 1:1
2 * Revelation 12:9
3 * 1 John 1:1-2
4 * Job 1:7
5 * Isaiah 65:17-25, 66:23

ARE YOU ACTUALLY READY?

While searching online for articles to continue writing about last-day events I stumbled into a forum in which the Seventh-Day Adventists are highly criticized. An attempt to cast doubt on our beliefs was made; mainly that of Saturday as the day of worship, the state of the dead, Jesus as the only one who is able to intercede for us and forgive our sins, and the Spirit of prophecy. For a moment I got a sense of fear concerning such criticisms as I imagined what persecution will be like. When our efforts are exhausted, when we are blamed as being the reason for the wrath of God being poured over this world, when our beliefs and doctrines are attacked, will we stand firm? Do we have a sufficiently close relationship with Jesus and a deep knowledge of Scripture to resist? I am concerned about the current condition our church is in. The enemy has blinded us. He has distracted us from building a relationship with God and taken our time away from the preparation we should be engaged in. I want to emphasize that no one will stand firm without the power of the Holy Spirit and no one can receive the Holy Spirit without having Jesus in their hearts. So I ask again, are we ready for this great time of trouble that is soon to be upon us?

Ellen G. White states,

The "time of trouble, such as never was," is soon to open upon us; and we shall need an experience which we do not now possess and which many are too indolent to obtain. It is often the case that trouble is greater in anticipation than in reality; but this is not true of the crisis before us. The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal. In that time of trial, every soul must stand for himself before God. "Though Noah, Daniel, and Job" were in the land, "as I live, saith the Lord God, they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness." Ezekiel 14:20.*1

As the opposition rises to a fiercer height, the servants of God are again perplexed; for it seems to them that they have brought the crisis. But conscience and the word of God assure them that their course is right; and although the trials continue, they are strengthened to bear them. The contest grows closer and sharper, but their faith and courage rise with the emergency. Their testimony is: "We dare not tamper with God's word, dividing His holy law; calling one portion essential and another nonessential, to gain the favor of the world. The Lord whom we serve is able to deliver us. Christ has conquered the powers of earth; and shall we be afraid of a world already conquered?" *2

They have not consulted their temporal interests, nor sought to preserve their reputation or their lives. Yet when the storm of opposition and reproach bursts upon them, some, overwhelmed with consternation, will be ready to exclaim: "Had we foreseen the consequences of our words, we would have held our peace." They are hedged in with difficulties. Satan assails them with fierce temptations. The work which they have undertaken seems far beyond their ability to accomplish. They are threatened with destruction. The enthusiasm which animated them is gone; yet they cannot turn back. Then, feeling their utter helplessness, they flee to the Mighty One for strength. They remember that the words which they have spoken were not theirs, but His who bade them give the warning. God put the truth into their hearts, and they could not forbear to proclaim it.*2

Conscientious obedience to the word of God will be treated as rebellion. Blinded by Satan, the parent will exercise harshness and severity toward the believing child; the master or mistress will oppress the commandment-keeping servant. Affection will be alienated; children will be disinherited and driven from home. The words of Paul will be literally fulfilled: "All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." 2 Timothy 3:12. As the defenders of truth refuse to honor the Sunday-sabbath, some of them will be thrust into prison, some will be exiled, some will be treated as slaves. To human wisdom all this now seems impossible; but as the restraining Spirit of God shall be withdrawn from men, and they shall be under the control of Satan, who hates the divine precepts, there will be strange developments. The heart can be very cruel when God's fear and love are removed. *2

Those who honor the law of God have been accused of bringing judgments upon the world, and they will be regarded as the cause of the fearful convulsions of nature and the strife and bloodshed among men that are filling the earth with woe. The power attending the last warning has enraged the wicked; their anger is kindled against all who have received the message, and Satan will excite to still greater intensity the spirit of hatred and persecution. *1

Imagine that you are being asked the following questions:

Will you not feed your family? All you have to do is worship on Sunday not on Saturday, after all the disciples met on the first day of the week.

Why should we take you interpretation of the Bible as correct when the rest of the world thinks it’s wrong?

Who are you but a mere sinner to go against the world?

Are you willing to leave everything behind based on your interpretation of prophecy?

Do you really think you are in God’s church? The Seventh-day Adventist began after suffering a big disappointment?

The whole world will be against us and the only one that can save us is Jesus. Because of his mercy the days will be shortened. Our church, our leaders, our prophets and our doctrines are being attacked but when the spirit of God is removed and sin multiplies these attacks will turn into persecution.

Only those who have been diligent students of the Scriptures and who have received the love of the truth will be shielded from the powerful delusion that takes the world captive. By the Bible testimony these will detect the deceiver in his disguise. To all the testing time will come. By the sifting of temptation the genuine Christian will be revealed. Are the people of God now so firmly established upon His word that they would not yield to the evidence of their senses? Would they, in such a crisis, cling to the Bible and the Bible only? Satan will, if possible, prevent them from obtaining a preparation to stand in that day. He will so arrange affairs as to hedge up their way, entangle them with earthly treasures, cause them to carry a heavy, wearisome burden, that their hearts may be overcharged with the cares of this life and the day of trial may come upon them as a thief. *1

While Satan seeks to destroy this class, God will send His angels to comfort and protect them in the time of peril. The assaults of Satan are fierce and determined, his delusions are terrible; but the Lord's eye is upon His people, and His ear listens to their cries. Their affliction is great, the flames of the furnace seem about to consume them; but the Refiner will bring them forth as gold tried in the fire. God's love for His children during the period of their severest trial is as strong and tender as in the days of their sunniest prosperity; but it is needful for them to be placed in the furnace of fire; their earthliness must be consumed, that the image of Christ may be perfectly reflected. *1

The season of distress and anguish before us will require a faith that can endure weariness, delay, and hunger--a faith that will not faint though severely tried. *1

We should now acquaint ourselves with God by proving His promises. Angels record every prayer that is earnest and sincere. We should rather dispense with selfish gratifications than neglect communion with God. The deepest poverty, the greatest self-denial, with His approval, is better than riches, honors, ease, and friendship without it. We must take time to pray. If we allow our minds to be absorbed by worldly interests, the Lord may give us time by removing from us our idols of gold, of houses, or of fertile lands. *1

Our precious Saviour invites us to join ourselves to Him, to unite our weakness to His strength, our ignorance to His wisdom, our unworthiness to His merits…The Lord is ever setting before us, not the way we would choose, which seems easier and pleasanter to us, but the true aims of life. *1

He shall preserve thy soul." "He shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with His feathers, and under His wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the Most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling." Psalms 121:5-7; 91:3-10.*1

Yet to human sight it will appear that the people of God must soon seal their testimony with their blood as did the martyrs before them. They themselves begin to fear that the Lord has left them to fall by the hand of their enemies. It is a time of fearful agony. Day and night they cry unto God for deliverance. The wicked exult, and the jeering cry is heard: "Where now is your faith? Why does not God deliver you out of our hands if you are indeed His people?" But the waiting ones remember Jesus dying upon Calvary's cross and the chief priests and rulers shouting in mockery: "He saved others; Himself He cannot save. If He be the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him." Matthew 27:42. Like Jacob, all are wrestling with God. Their countenances express their internal struggle. Paleness sits upon every face. Yet they cease not their earnest intercession.*1

For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.*3

Blow the trumpet in Zion, And sound an alarm in My holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble; For the day of the LORD is coming, For it is at hand: A day of darkness and gloominess, A day of clouds and thick darkness, Like the morning clouds spread over the mountains. A people come, great and strong, The like of whom has never been; Nor will there ever be any such after them, Even for many successive generations.*4

To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. *5

JESUS IS COMING!

1* The Great Controversy, “The Time Of Trouble” Ellen G. White
2* The Great Controversy, “The Final Warning” Ellen G. White
3* Matthew 24:21, 22
4* Joel 2:1-2
5* Revelation 3:21

WARNING THE END HAS BEGUN!

Earlier I wrote about a topic that was the subject of the most recent encyclical written by the pope. Quickly it alerted me to read its contents and I shared it with everyone. I feel the need to alert people on how the necessary pieces are already in place and the last thing that is needed is for the angel to finish sealing the righteous and then the four angels let go of the winds.

For a moment I doubted that this was of any importance, because none of our leaders commented on the issue. I see how Satan used the news of Michael Jackson to cover the publication of this encyclical. It's time to wake up from the deep sleep that we are in, THE LORD IS COMING! The need to preach further upon this topic was confirmed as I read a letter written by Pastor Doug Batchelor. He goes into detail on the study of this encyclical without fear of what might be done to prevent the preaching of this message.

I strongly believe that the Holy Spirit is already being poured over some of God’s people and that they are being called to preach with great power the message of the third angel. How exciting, Jesus is at the door. We must preach with conviction and ask the Holy Spirit's to use us. We cannot fear persecution it is enevitable for it is part of the prophecy. However our hope is centered on the fact that we will soon be in heaven!

Pastor Batchelor’s letter:

Part of our mission at Amazing Facts is to keep up-to-date on world events that have scriptural significance. And we have just witnessed an extraordinary event …

A World Political Authority?
The timing was not coincidental. Just before the G-8 summit in L’Aquila, Italy, in mid-July, when leaders of the world’s top eight industrial nations assembled to discuss the global economic crisis, Pope Benedict XVI released an encyclical — the most authoritative papal document — in which he laments the sorry state of the world’s economy. That’s not so unusual, obviously.

But what he specifically says in the letter is very important …

Of course, please understand that there is a difference between the people of the church — and the Catholic Church as a religious and political institution. As a Christian, I deeply respect and even cherish the love and reverence that most Catholics have for Jesus Christ. But at the same time, as an institution, the Bible clearly points to the Catholic Church as a major player in end-time events.
(To understand this from a Bible perspective, click here.)

This is what I mean: The pope writes, “To manage the global economy, to revive economies hit by the crisis, … there is urgent need of a true world political authority.”

Talking about this world authority, the pope explains that it “would need to be universally recognized and to be vested with the effective power.” In other words, power to enforce its views upon the rest of the world … power to make everyone comply!

This reminds us of the book of Revelation, doesn’t it? It warns that in the last days, world powers will use force — including economic force — to compel everyone to “worship the image of the beast” or they cannot “buy or sell” (Revelation 13:15, 17).

Can you understand why I’m excited? And why I see this papal letter as more evidence that we are nearing the end? All this makes me want to double my efforts in getting the true gospel out to the rest of the world. More reasons, too, why I’m asking you to continue supporting the work of Amazing Facts.

Real Teeth
There’s more. In the letter, Pope Benedict also suggests that there “is a strongly felt need … for a reform of the United Nations organization, and likewise of economic institutions … so that the concept of the family of nations can acquire real teeth.”

“Real teeth”? Sounds like the fourth beast in Daniel 7, which has “great iron teeth” (Daniel 7:7), or like the beasts and dragon in Revelation, because who ever heard of a beast or a dragon without “real teeth”?

Now, I ask: How could something like this ever happen without the backing of an economic and military powerhouse like the United States to help enforce that authority?

I don’t think it could. That’s precisely why the day after the G-8 summit, the pope had his first meeting with President Obama. And what did he give the president of the United States? A white, leather-bound copy of his encyclical!

Ethics?
I also found it very interesting in Pope Benedict’s encyclical when he writes, “The economy needs ethics in order to function correctly — not any ethics, but an ethics which is people-centered.”

A new economic world order based on ethics? And who do you suppose would be the most likely candidate to provide the kind of moral authority to guide those ethics? Would it really be someone other than the one who views himself (and who is viewed by millions of others) as the “Vicar of Christ” on earth?

Please keep in mind that other papal pronouncements have often mentioned “protection of the workers’ Sunday” as central to their concept of economic ethics. It all makes sense, don’t you think?

No question, this latest papal declaration, given at a time of a severe world economic downturn, should make us realize more than ever how close we are to the end.

Working with the United States and the European Union? The pope calling for a single world economic authority with “real teeth” to enforce its economic will upon the world? How much more obvious can it be?
I am even tempted to quote these words of Jesus: “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:21).

We’ll Never Keep Silent
Sad to say, not many voices are speaking out on these profound issues. Few people understand even the basics of last-day Bible prophecy. We at Amazing Facts, though, are never going to be quiet. They can threaten us with arrest; they can accuse us of “hate speech” … they can even cut off our electricity. But as long as we have breath, we will proclaim the three angels’ messages to the world, no matter how unpopular or “politically incorrect.”
If we love Jesus and our fellow man, we can do no less.
We know, ultimately, where this is all leading. Until then, while there’s still time, we plan to do all we can to reach souls with the message of salvation. People are longing to understand what is happening.

A New Prophecy Powerhouse
One practical way we hope to achieve this is by developing a powerful and informative new website called www.BibleProphecyTruth.com.
This state-of-the-art website is being especially designed for new seekers and will help millions understand the truth about end-time prophecy. You can even take a look at it right now, although it is still under construction.
We have already dedicated resources to design this landmark website, which will contain all of the fundamental truths we have for the study of Bible prophecy. We’ll also use powerful search engine tools to make it easier for souls to find it using Google and similar web resources.

Collecting and organizing the material and developing modern graphics for this comprehensive website will require a significant investment.
Will you please consider a generous gift to Amazing Facts to help make this happen? Every dollar goes toward reaching the world with present truth.
I can see that, with these latest developments, we don’t have much time left. As part of this important work, please continue to pray and give. We are nearing the end of our journey. Your support makes a crucial difference that you will experience through eternity!

Yours in the Lord,

Pastor Doug *1

1* http://www.amazingfacts.org/Publications/FromPastorDoug/tabid/122/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/433/Prophecy-News-ALERT.aspx

GOD'S ORIGINAL PLAN FOR MAN AND WOMAN

And the LORD God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in its place. Then the rib which the LORD God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man. And Adam said: “This is now bone of my bones And flesh of my flesh; She shall be called Woman, Because she was taken out of Man.” Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.*1

The male and female were created in the image and likeness of God.*2 In the creation, God determined that the helper of mad would be a women. Moreover, He created woman from man so they could she would be flesh of his flesh. Sin always destroys God’s plan for humanity. God's principles have never changed and never will. If Heaven will be the garden of Eden restored you can be certain that man and woman now covered with immortality will once again be in the image and likeness of God

While I know same-sex marriage is a sensitive topic I also know that it is necessary to examine it according to the Bible. I sincerely speak with love knowing that the invitation to salvation is extended to any person who seeks God.

In the Old Testament the people of Israel looked at the issue of homosexuality as a serious sin. In fact homosexuality is referred to as an abomination which only had one consequence, death.*3 Even dressing in a manner contrary to the nature of the person was considered sin.*4 Many may say that these are old traditions and that we now live in a modern and progressive society. But God's principles have never changed and the image and likeness of God remains the same!

The apostle Paul says:

Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due. *5

Although his words may seem harsh, they are what God inspired him to write. He refers to these acts as "vile passions" because they go against the nature of both men and women. They go against God’s original plan during the creation.

Finally, the Bible clearly says:

Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.*6

In light of Scripture how is it that popular Protestant denominations have begun to accept gay priests and ministers. The largest Lutheran denomination in the United States consisting of more than 4.6 million members has now accepted gay clergies. Prior to that, the Episcopal Church consisting of 2 million members took the same resolution. Others, like the Presbyterian Church and the Methodist church have discussed the issue and have not yet accepted it but only by a minimal margin. The reason this issue grabbed my attention is because these articles includes comments from scholars who see this change as "progressive".*7

The Mormons were highly criticized for actively supporting a proposal that prevents the recognition of same-sex marriages. One critic said that some progressive individuals now see the church as a force of evil and an enemy of equality and justice. The scholars mentioned that this will damage the image of the church which has fallen behind in an era where moral principles have shifted.*8

The fear of not adapting to what society deems is the norm is driving political and religious leaders to accept something that is against the Bible. It is easier to imagine how this country will establish Sunday laws when society demands it and religious leaders controlled by the forces of evil enforce it. It will be considered a progressive movement (what the president has emphasized) when in fact it is the change of "time and the law” prophesied by Daniel.

As the Protestants churches have been seeking the favor of the world, false charity has blinded their eyes. They do not see but that it is right to believe good of all evil, and as the inevitable result they will finally believe evil of all good. *9

we cannot be afraid to preach about the sins of Babylon because even if we persecuted the power of the Holy Spirit will join us to preach the message of Revelation 18,

After these things I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was illuminated with his glory. And he cried mightily with a loud voice, saying, “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird! For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury.”

THE LORD IS COMING!

1 * Genesis 2:18,21-24
2 * Genesis 1:27
3 * Leviticus 18:22, 20:13
4 * Deuteronomy 22:5
5 * Romans 1:24:27
6 * 1 Corinthians 6:9-10
7 * http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/22/us/22lutherans.html (Lutheran Group Eases Limits on Gay Clergy) http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/aug/21 / Lutherans-to-allow-sexually-active-as-gay clergy / (Lutherans to Allow Clergy as Sexually Active Gays)
8 * http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090816/ap_on_re_us/us_mormon_church_image (Gay Marriage Fight, 'Kiss-ins' Smack Mormon Image)
9 * The Great Controversy, "Liberty of Conscience Threatened", Ellen G. White

THE DECEPTION OF SPIRITUALISM

Among the various weapons that Satan has to deceive God’s people, Spiritualism is one of the stongest. Satan has powerful tools with which he preaches not only to adults but to children and youth as well. Why is it that the hearts of many have grown cold and there is such moral decay? Why do young people reject God's voice and adults prefer worldly things? The answer is simple, the limited amount of time we spend reading the Bible, praying, and listening to sermons is woefully insufficient to combat Satan and his teachings. That is because Satan’s methods of preaching are much more appealing even if his objective is to destroy us?

The Internet
The Internet is a double edged sword. It has vast amounts of information available to anyone, anywhere in the world! (I therefore take advantage of this tool to preach the truth!) There is an exorbitant amount of websites depicting the different beliefs about the immortality of the soul. Anyone falsely searching guidance on how to communicate with the spirits and beyond sadly can find it.

Music
Any music that is not meant to elevate our minds to heavenly things and lead us God is an instrument of the enemy. Many people have been possessed by evil spirits simply by listening to music. This is easy to see because our hearing is a direct avenue to the mind.

Nowadays Satan will not cause people to throw themselves on the ground with foam coming out of their mouths, speaking in a deep tone, in a different language and demonstrating supernatural strength. Every human being who does not realize that their body is temple of the Holy Spirit will instead allow evil spirits to dwell within them. Scripture tells us,

When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none. Then he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when he comes, he finds it empty, swept, and put in order. Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first.*1

In our days a person may be sitting alongside you on the bus or walking next to you at the park being completely controlled by the enemy and we would not even realize it. When we look at some people in history who have committed the most heinous crimes, superficially they seemed normal. What a terrible thought, the last state becomes worse than the first when we allow the enemy to dwell in our hearts instead of the Holy Spirit. That is why I emphasize that as harmless as some music may seem it opens our hearts and allows any evil spirit to enter it.

Movies and TV
Perhaps the most disastrous tool that Satan has is the television. With this he preaches to children, youth and adults. Television is the perfect way to open our homes to the enemy when used improperly. Through movies and popular TV shows the delusions of spiritualism are preached in our own homes. Just to give some examples of this:

• Ghost Hunters
• The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy
• Charmed Harry Potter
• Legion
• Ghost
• Pokemon
• Ben Ten
• Paranormal
• Medium

Such elements of spiritualism are found in almost all popular TV shows and movies. As a result spiritualism seems normal to us. If from childhood we are exposed to the fact that you can communicate with the dead or that if a person was good they are in heaven or if they were bad they are in hell, how can the word of God enter our hearts? Will the 15 minutes allocated to reading scripture and praying through the day compete with the hours we spend watching TV?

We cannot hide the consequence of sin. The soul who sins shall die*2 because the wages of sin is death.*3 The Bible is clear on this point, all who break God’s law are condemned to die. But Christ arose from death and in him we have hope of eternal life. When Christ comes at the sound of the trumpet the dead will rise, clothed with immortality.*4 The apostle Paul emphasized:

For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen. And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable. But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ’s at His coming.*5

JESUS IS COMING!

1 * Matthew 12:43-45
2 * Ezekiel 18:4
3 * Romans 6:24
4 * 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 1 Corinthians 15:53-55
5 * 1 Corinthians 15:16-23

THE FINAL WARNING

Our message: The Lord is coming and we should be focus on Jesus and heaven! We must keep His holy law and His holy Sabbath because He is our creator. We must prepare to endure what will come with the conviction that Christ has saved us. We will suffer but with Jesus we will overcome because He already has.

Heaven must become a reality, a necessity in our lives. Our suffering will lead us to cry out day for Jesus to return so we may dwell with Him in heaven forever!

If we must focus our time, our strength and all we have on something let us focus on uniting with the Holy Spirit and preaching the gospel so that our greatest dream, heaven, can come true!

“The message will be carried not so much by argument as by the deep conviction of the Spirit of God.”

“Different periods in the history of the church have each been marked by the development of some special truth, adapted to the necessities of God's people at that time. Every new truth has made its way against hatred and opposition; those who were blessed with its light were tempted and tried. The Lord gives a special truth for the people in an emergency. Who dare refuse to publish it? He commands His servants to present the last invitation of mercy to the world. They cannot remain silent, except at the peril of their souls. Christ's ambassadors have nothing to do with consequences. They must perform their duty and leave results with God.”

“No man can serve God without enlisting against himself the opposition of the hosts of darkness. Evil angels will assail him, alarmed that his influence is taking the prey from their hands.”

"All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." 2 Timothy 3:12.

“Fearful is the issue to which the world is to be brought. The powers of earth, uniting to war against the commandments of God, will decree that "all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond" (Revelation 13:16)”

“In this time of persecution the faith of the Lord's servants will be tried. They have faithfully given the warning, looking to God and to His word alone. God's Spirit, moving upon their hearts, has constrained them to speak. Stimulated
with holy zeal, and with the divine impulse strong upon them, they entered upon the performance of their duties without coldly calculating the consequences of speaking to the people the word which the Lord had given them. They have not consulted their temporal interests, nor sought to preserve their reputation or their lives. Yet when the storm of opposition and reproach bursts upon them, some, overwhelmed with consternation, will be ready to exclaim: "Had we foreseen the consequences of our words, we would have held our peace." They are hedged in with difficulties. Satan assails them with fierce temptations. The work which they have undertaken seems far beyond their ability to accomplish. They are threatened with destruction. The enthusiasm which animated them is gone; yet they cannot turn back. Then, feeling their utter helplessness, they flee to the Mighty One for strength. They remember that the words which they have spoken were not theirs, but His who bade them give the warning. God put the truth into their hearts, and they could not forbear to proclaim it.”

JESUS IS COMING SOON!

* The Great Controversy, "The Final Warning", Ellen G. White

MESSAGE OF THE SECOND ANGEL

And another angel followed, saying, “Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.”* 1

The second angel's message was only preached for a couple of months in 1844. But it won’t be complete until it is preached again with great power just before the return of Jesus. Revelation 18 repeats this message but now calls the righteous to abandon the cities in order to avoid the consequences preached by the third angel's message.

Once again we examine this message in the context of prophecy to determine what Babylon represents.

So he carried me away in the Spirit into the wilderness. And I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast which was full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. And on her forehead a name was written: MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.*2

Notice that Babylon represents the great city that is against God and promotes false worshiping. It is the mother of harlots because it represents a false system of religion, a false system of worship. This great city receives its authority from the beast until the last kingdom falls.

We can contrast Babylon with the New Jerusalem both symbolically and literally. The wife of Christ can be seen as his pure and holy church and as the great city that will descend from heaven.

Now a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a garland of twelve stars…She bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. And her Child was caught up to God and His throne…And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.*3

Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. *4

The seed of the woman pure and holy is the remnant, God’s people, His church. We are the saints who will be called out of Babylon to avoid God’s wrath. We cannot be contaminated by staying in Babylon for we are to be presented pure to God. Such perfection will be seen once we enter the New Jerusalem!
What does the wine represent? The apostle John tells us,

I saw the woman, drunk with the blood of the saints and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus. And when I saw her, I marveled with great amazement.* 5

The harlot had a cup full of the abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. They are all false doctrines and false methods of worship which the enemy introduced in this world. She is drunk because he has shed the blood of the saints who did not want to drink the wine of her fornication. But if the world is afraid of the consequence of not drinking from her cup it should be terrified to drink of the wine of the wrath of God as discussed in the third angel's message.

You may ask, why will God unleash his wrath if he is love? The answer is simple.

For I am jealous for you with godly jealousy. For I have betrothed you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.* 6

Jesus has already shown us that He is the path to salvation. He shed His blood and gave His life for us. In response to God’s love the world crucified Jesus, killed his people and will once again persecute the remnant. There is no more that God can do for those who willingly reject his invitation. Therefore, the wrath of God will forever destroy sin along with all those who reject his law and his salvation. There is no more time to spend. This is an eternal life or eternal death decision. If you have read this message it is because the Lord is once more asking you to invite Him into your heart.

Then he said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’” And he said to me, “These are the true sayings of God.”* 7

And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.* 8

1 * Revelation 14:8
2 * Revelation 17:3-5
3 * Revelation 12
4 * Revelation 21:2
5 * Revelation 17:6
6 * 2 Corinthians 11:2,3
7 * Revelation 19:9
8 * Revelation 22:17

WHAT WILL HEAVEN REALLY BE LIKE?

For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth.*1

Note that this expression is not merely symbolic or spiritual. The same language is found in Genesis where it states,

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.*2

The prophet Isaiah refers specifically to the heavens and the earth which were created in the beginning when the Father and the Son decided to create another world. Therefore, when fire and brimstone fall upon this planet it will be to restore it to its original state while at the same time making it even better than before.*3 The apostle Peter emphasized that this land is reserved for destruction by fire. First, he refers to the creation of the heavens and earth by the word of God. Then he brings to mind that the ancient world was destroyed by water but that this world will be destroyed by fire.*4

We are able to see that God’s purpose in creating a new heaven and new earth is so his children can inherit it once again.*5 Just as the ancient world was destroyed by water and then given to Noah and his family so will this earth be given to us once it is destroyed by fire. Finally, will we know what God’s original plan was for humanity. We will live in a new earth, Eden restoredv for after a period of a thousand years (we will study this later) the new Jerusalem will descend and we shall inherit the earth.*6 The Spirit of Prophecy tells us,

While the earth was wrapped in the fire of destruction, the righteous abode safely in the Holy City. Upon those that had part in the first resurrection, the second death has no power. While God is to the wicked a consuming fire, He is to His people both a sun and a shield. Revelation 20:6; Psalm 84:11. "I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away." Revelation 21:1. The fire that consumes the wicked purifies the earth. Every trace of the curse is swept away. No eternally burning hell will keep before the ransomed the fearful consequences of sin.*7

I conclude with the description of Heaven given to us by the servant of the Lord:

The time has come to which holy men have looked with longing since the flaming sword barred the first pair from Eden, the time for "the redemption of the purchased possession." Ephesians 1:14. The earth originally given to man as his kingdom, betrayed by him into the hands of Satan, and so long held by the mighty foe, has been brought back by the great plan of redemption. All that was lost by sin has been restored. "Thus saith the Lord . . . that formed the earth and made it; He hath established it, He created it not in vain, He formed it to be inhabited." Isaiah 45:18. God's original purpose in the creation of the earth is fulfilled as it is made the eternal abode of the redeemed. "The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein forever." Psalm 37:29.

A fear of making the future inheritance seem too material has led many to spiritualize away the very truths which lead us to look upon it as our home. Christ assured His disciples that He went to prepare mansions for them in the Father's house. Those who accept the teachings of God's word will not be wholly ignorant concerning the heavenly abode. And yet, "eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him." 1 Corinthians 2:9. Human language is inadequate to describe the reward of the righteous. It will be known only to those who behold it. No finite mind can comprehend the glory of the Paradise of God.

There the heavenly Shepherd leads His flock to fountains of living waters. The tree of life yields its fruit every month, and the leaves of the tree are for the service of the nations. There are ever-flowing streams, clear as crystal, and beside them waving trees cast their shadows upon the paths prepared for the ransomed of the Lord. There the wide-spreading plains swell into hills of beauty, and the mountains of God rear their lofty summits. On those peaceful plains, beside those living streams, God's people, so long pilgrims and wanderers, shall find a home.*7

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming quickly.”
Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
Amen.
Revelation 22:20-21

1 * Isaiah 65:17, Revelation 21:1,2, 2 Peter 3:13
2 * Genesis 1:1
3 * 2 Peter 3:7,12
4 * 2 Peter 3
5 * Matthew 5:5, Psalm 37:9
6 * Revelation 21:2
7 * The Great Controversy, "The Controversy Ended", Ellen G. White.

MESSAGE OF THE FIRST ANGEL

Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth—to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people— saying with a loud voice, “Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.” *1

Revelation contains the message of the three angels, which is designiated to be preached in our times. But what does this message entail? First of all, it is not three angels who will literally descend from heaven to preach. The book of Revelation is prophetic and each element must be viewed in light of prophecy. The symbols used allow us to understand several important points.

"Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven." So far I do not know of a faster way to travel than flying. The Lord uses the image of an angel flying in midair, to demonstrate the speed and urgency with which this message must be preached. How easy it would beif an angel literally descended from heaven and gave this message, but it is our responsibility, it is part of our chuches’s mission.

The fact that an angel is said to be the herald of this warning is significant. By the purity, the glory, and the power of the heavenly messenger, divine wisdom has been pleased to represent the exalted character of the work to be accomplished by the message and the power and glory that were to attend it. And the angel's flight "in the midst of heaven," the "loud voice" with which the warning is uttered, and its promulgation to all "that dwell on the earth,"--"to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,"--give evidence of the rapidity and world-wide extent of the movement. *2

"Having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth—to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people." The Lord is eternal, His word is eternal and His law is eternal. The angel has the everlasting gospel which demonstrates the perfect law of God and reflects His love for humanity by giving his only son to die on the cross for us. Now that gospel is eternal because Jesus rose again and will return a second time to save all who accept his invitation. Although it is an eternal message, never before had it been preached because the prophecies had not yet been fulfilled. But now that we are in the end-time we preach that the hour of His judgment has come and Jesus will soon return.

"Saying with a loud voice, “Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come;" like it or not we will all be judged according to our works. The Lord shows us the path we should follow. Heaven is a place of reverence and holy order. We can be eternally happy if we live up to the standards of God. His law is our freedom. The investigative judgment began in 1844. Since then the cases of all dead in Christ began. Peter tells us,

For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved,
Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?” *3

We are not given a specific time when the Lord ends the trial of the righteous dead and will began for the ones still alive. But I feel like the Lord and already begun to examine our cases and may end at any moment. Either way our final opportnity can come at any moment if we pass away today.

Notice that the verse says, "Fear God and give glory to Him." It does not call us to be afraid (although the wicked should be afraid of the wrath of God). But these are words of admonition and warning. Warning, the tiem of judgement had begun and it is essential to live according to God's will so Jesus’ justice can cover us.

"Worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.” Let us never forget who our creator is. By His word everything was created. By his hand everything we see reamins in existence and through his mercy we live. Nothing and nobody in this world deserves or even may suggest that they deserve to be worshiped for only God has that right. Therefore, our time and effort must be focused on worshiping our Heavenly Father, King of the Universe, and our savior Jesus Christ, to Him be all the honor and glory for ever and ever amen!

JESUS IS COMING!

1 * Revelation 14:6, 7
2 * The Great Controversy, "A Great Religious Awakening" Ellen G. White
3 * 1 Peter 4:17,18

MODERN REVIVALS

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.*1

In these days we need search the most intimate parts of our hearts. Until we do this the Holy Spirit will not descend upon us and use us in power to finish the Lord’s work. Our thoughts need to be refocused on the important aspects of life. The inspired pen tells us,

With every truly converted soul the relation to God and to eternal things will be the great topic of life. *2

Jesus was clear on what is the cost of following him. He said,

“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.*3

The Spirit of Prophecy continues saying,

The desire for an easy religion that requires no striving, no self-denial, no divorce from the follies of the world, has made the doctrine of faith, and faith only,*4

We are looking for easiest way to heaven, the path that requires no sacrifices from our part, but such a path does not exist. Satan and sin are the sworn enemies God and try to destroy His invitation to salvation. Deciding to follow Christ involves a direct war against the forces of evil and that requires great sacrifice and a complete surrendering of self to Christ. The apostle Paul introduces the concept of "sorrow that leads to repentance."

For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter.*5

Being part of the church of the Laodiceans we are advised to buy gold refined in the fire, white garments and eye salve so that we may see. *6

To be found worthy in the last days we have to go through the refining fire tribulation, be clothed with garment of justice and awaken from the deep sleep in which we are in. We will endure a time of anguish which has never been seen before in this world in order to be purified. But to prepare for this time we need a close and intimate relationship with Jesus and the anointing power of the Holy Spirit to guide us every day and focus our minds above on the eternal things.

JESUS IS COMING!

1 * Hebrews 4:12
2 * The Great Controversy, “Modern Revivals” Ellen G. White
3 * Matthew 16:24-27
4 * The Great Controversy, “Modern Revivals” Ellen G. White
5 * 2 Corinthians 7:9-11
6 * Revelation 3:14-22

GOD OUR CREATOR

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth .*1

For many years I have heard that the origin of life, the origin of man was a big explosion. But theories like the big bang and evolution leave many unanswered questions.

Ironically, to accept these theories a certain amount of faith is required. The basic law of physics tells us that matter can neither be created nor destroyed. We can enter into a scientific discussion on what this really means but I ask, does the big bang theory actually explain the beginning of this universe? Assuming for example that this planet was formed after a huge explosion, what caused such an explosion? What created matter or any other elements and what started the chemical reactions necessary for such an explosion?

Because these theories fail to explain the origin of everything, many believe that God created this process whether it is called evolution or intelligent design. The enemy is extremely astute. Seeing as though it is impossible to explain the origin of the universe without God, he combines the truth with lies. The enemy uses the Bible and concedes that God exists but distorts the role that He plays in our lives. In reality God, is interested and engaged in even the most insignificant aspects of our lives.

Believing in God as our creator requires faith but there is more than enough evidence in nature to believe that God exists and that He is our Creator. Many times we are criticized for thinking like a child. Some philosophers say that the belief in God is a tactic used to brainwash people and keep them in a childlike state. However, Jesus himself said,

“Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”.*2

It’s interesting that the Lord tells us that if we do not receive the kingdom of heaven as a child we will not enter it. Jesus was referring to the trust and faith that a child has towards his father. A child does not ask for evidence before believing what his father tells him. By faith the child believes knowing that his father loves him and tells him the truth.

Do we not believe in our heavenly father? Do we not trust that he loves us and that the vast universe was created by his hand? Can we easily accept these manmade theories which are unable to explain the mysteries of life?

At the end of the day I wonder who will be happier. I live each day thinking that I was created in the image and likeness of God*3 and that I did not come to this world by luck or accident. I live each day believing that God has a purpose and a plan for me and that I expect a better life in heaven.

On the other hand, you may choose to live life enjoying all the temporary pleasures of this world thinking there is nothing more than this. You may chose to live life thinking that you are a product of mutations and randomness and that this world of pain and suffering is all that exist in this vast universe. You may choose to believe that this world of hollow happiness is the best we will ever know. But at the end of the day who will be happier?

When you trust that God is our creator, that He is in control of everything and that He has prepared mansions for us in heaven it creates a "blessed hope" that gives life true meaning and purpose each day. I challenge you to Experience the blessings and true happiness that God can bring to your life. I challenge you to believe that your life has a purpose which can be fulfilled by allowing Jesus into your heart.

JESUS IS COMING, AMEN, YES COME LORD JESUS!

1 * Genesis 1:1
2 * Mark 10:14-15
3 * Genesis 1:26

WAR STRATEGIES

In most wars the side with better weapons, more information and effective strategies wins. In this world the one who knows the most about war and has long honed his strategies is Satan. Starting in heaven, the enemy deceived the angels, tried to deceive beings in other worlds and finally made man fall. After dragging a third of the angels he came to make war against the women and her seed.*1. Specifically, those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. The apostle Paul warns us,

Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.*2

We must recognize that the devil has power and that his agents, the demons do too. But God has much more power and He gives us strength to overcome if we wear His armor. The question then is, what is His armor?

Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—* 3

The Lord has left us these warnings and has revealed the enemies’ strategies so he does not deceive us and if the enemy deceives us it will be because of our own negligence. What are some of Satan’s strategies:

• False worship - Matthew 4:9
• Combines truth and lies - Genesis 3:1-7
• Changes time and the law - Daniel 7:25
• Makes us feel satisfied (asleep) - Matthew 24:28,29, Matthew 25:1-13
• Makes the coming of the Lord seem distant - 2 Peter 3:3, 4
• Spiritualism - Matthew 24:24
• False doctrines - 1 Timothy 4:1
• False religions - Revelation 16:13,14
• Studies individuals to determine their weaknesses - 1 Peter 5:8
• Distracts us with worldly pleasures - Matthew 6:19-21; James 4
• Creates doubts about God - Genesis 3:1-7
• Brings suffering - James 1:2-4
• Tempts us - James 1:12-16

These are just some of the tools the enemy uses to overcome the people of God. In the past, he persecuted and killed but now because we are asleep he deceives us with half-truths and whole lies.

The greatest want of the world is the want of men-- men who will not be bought or sold, men who in their inmost souls are true and honest, men who do not fear to call sin by its right name, men whose conscience is as true to duty as the needle to the pole, men who will stand for the right though the heavens fall.*4

If we keep the armor of God and let Christ be our general we will not fall.

Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.*5

But more importantly we will gain eternal life and dwell with Jesus forever!

JESUS IS COMING SOON!

1 * Revelation 12
2 * Ephesians 6:11-13
3 * Ephesians 6:14-18
4* Education, “Live Of Great Men”, Ellen G. White
5* James 4:7

WHO ARE YOU?

Tonight the sky is particularly clear. As I contemplate the moon and the stars, the same question comes to mind that I have asked myself since I've studied them. Who am I so that the Lord has even the hairs of my head counted?*1 Have you ever stopped to think how great the power of God is when we look at the infinite universe. The nearest star to our planet is approximately 4 light years away. That means that you would have to travel 300,000 km/sec. or 186,000 miles/sec. for four years to get there. The galaxy, in which our Solar System resides in, the Milky Way, is estimated to be 100,000 light years in diameter and contains between 100-400 billions stars. This is just our galaxy which is only one of billions of galaxies that the Lord has created.

Who is mortal man so that he may boast over a property that he has acquired on this planet? Or that he may boast over what something he constructed with his hands? God not only is all-knowing, he is omnipresent and omnipotent. He has the power to create worlds and to give life. His power is not confined by time or space. Worship is due only to He who created the heavens and the Earth. To God who created the universe and is in control of everything that happens in this granite of sand we call earth.

Many now falsely think that God created us established the laws of nature by which we live by, but that He does not take part in or is interested in our daily lives. What a terrible mistake to think that your life is not important to Him. John says,

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. *2

We must keep clear that, ONLY IN JESUS THERE IS LIFE. Nothing, absolutely nothing can survive without Christ. Every time your heart beats, every breath you take, every day you eat and even every day the sun rises is because God has allowed it. You can live your life doubting if God really exists but I assure you that without God nothing can exist. You may follow man made theories about our existence, they always change, they have many unanswered questions, but none can really explain how it all began. I invite you to experience Jesus in your life. Only those that really know Christ will be able to support the challenges of the last days and only those that have a close relationship with Him can be saved. John continues to say,

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life - the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us—. *3

Do you believe that to God you do not matter? God became man, he suffered, and he died so that you may have life. John talks about Jesus as “the eternal life manifested”. He has limitless power to his disposition; He has the keys to death because in Him there is life. What impossible to us is possible for God.

The prophet Isaiah asks,

Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand, measured heaven with a span and calculated the dust of the earth in a measure? Weighed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance? Who has directed the Spirit of the Lord, or as His counselor has taught Him? With whom did He take counsel, and who instructed Him, and taught Him in the path of justice? Who taught Him knowledge, and showed Him the way of understanding? Behold, the nations are as a drop in a bucket, and are counted as the small dust on the scales; Look, He lifts up the isles as a very little thing... All nations before Him are as nothing, and they are counted by Him less than nothing and worthless.

Have you not known? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth? It is He who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers, who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them out like a tent to dwell in. He brings the princes to nothing; He makes the judges of the earth useless. scarcely shall they be planted, scarcely shall they be sown, scarcely shall their stock take root in the earth, when He will also blow on them, and they will wither, and the whirlwind will take them away like stubble... *4

The Psalmist says,

When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him? *5

To God be all honor and glory forever and ever amen!

JESUS IS COMING SOON!

1* Mathew 10:30
2* John 1:1-4
3* 1 John 1:1,2
4* Isaiah 40:12-24
5* Psalms 8:3,4

EVERY EYE WILL SEE HIM

The Lord is at the doors. His second coming shall be a spectacle that will be seen all over the world.

Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. *1

The Lord said to his disciples,

then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. *2

Now the Bible seems to contradict itself in some aspects, for example Peter tells to us,

but the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.*3

If we combine this verse with Matthew,

[t]hen two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left, *4

there seems to be a contradiction. How do we reconcile the second part of the verse in Peter? That is to say, if the Lord will come like a thief, how is it that the heavens will pass away with a great noise and the elements are destroyed with a consuming fire? If we read the context in which Jesus pronuounced the words found in Mathew 24 then we can understand their significance. Jesus tells us that we must always be prepared for we do not know when he will come. If you knew that a thief would come tonight to your house, would you not make the necessary preparations? But because we do not know when the Lord will return we must be prepared at all times. Unfortunatley, many listen to these words but they do not believe them. Thus if there are two in the field and one is prepared, the Lord will only save the one that is prepared but if there other will suffer eternal death.

We notice that Mathew 24 indicates that the coming of the Lord will be visible and audible.

For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.*5

And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. *6

If we stop to think, the sun can only be seen in one part of the world at a time. How is it possible that every eye will see Him? But the second coming of Christ will be something that will break all natural laws of physics. The heavens will be removed and every eye will see Jesus and will hear the trumpets that will even trespass “Hades” for the dead in Christ will hear it and rise again!

For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.*7

The servant of the Lord also describes that day:

"Everything in nature seems turned out of its course. The streams cease to flow. Dark, heavy clouds come up and clash against each other. In the midst of the angry heavens is one clear space of indescribable glory, whence comes the voice of God like the sound of many waters, saying: "It is done." Revelation 16:17.

That voice shakes the heavens and the earth. There is a mighty earthquake, "such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great." Verses 17, 18. The firmament appears to open and shut. The glory from the throne of God seems flashing through. The mountains shake like a reed in the wind, and ragged rocks are scattered on every side. There is a roar as of a coming tempest. The sea is lashed into fury. There is heard the shriek of a hurricane like the voice of demons upon a mission of destruction. The whole earth heaves and swells like the waves of the sea. Its surface is breaking up. Its very foundations seem to be giving way. Mountain chains are sinking.

Graves are opened, and "many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt." Daniel 12:2. All who have died in the faith of the third angel's message come forth from the tomb glorified, to hear God's covenant of peace with those who have kept His law. "They also which pierced Him" (Revelation 1:7)

Thick clouds still cover the sky; yet the sun now and then breaks through, appearing like the avenging eye of Jehovah. Fierce lightnings leap from the heavens, enveloping the earth in a sheet of flame. Above the terrific roar of thunder, voices, mysterious and awful, declare the doom of the wicked.

Through a rift in the clouds there beams a star whose brilliancy is increased fourfold in contrast with the darkness.

...the clouds sweep back, and the starry heavens are seen, unspeakably glorious in contrast with the black and angry firmament on either side. The glory of the celestial city streams from the gates ajar...

Soon there appears in the east a small black cloud, about half the size of a man's hand. It is the cloud which surrounds the Saviour and which seems in the distance to be shrouded in darkness. The people of God know this to be the sign of the Son of man. In solemn silence they gaze upon it as it draws nearer the earth, becoming lighter and more glorious, until it is a great white cloud, its base a glory like consuming fire, and above it the rainbow of the covenant. Jesus rides forth as a mighty conqueror. Not now a "Man of Sorrows," to drink the bitter cup of shame and woe, He comes, victor in heaven and earth, to judge the living and the dead. "Faithful and True," "in righteousness He doth judge and make war." And "the armies which were in heaven" (Revelation 19:11, 14) follow Him. With anthems of celestial melody the holy angels, a vast, unnumbered throng, attend Him on His way. The firmament seems filled with radiant forms--"ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands." No human pen can portray the scene; no mortal mind is adequate to conceive its splendor. "His glory covered the heavens, and the earth was full of His praise. And His brightness was as the light." Habakkuk 3:3,4. As the living cloud comes still nearer, every eye beholds the Prince of life. No crown of thorns now mars that sacred head; but a diadem of glory rests on His holy brow. His countenance outshines the dazzling brightness of the noonday sun. "And He hath on His vesture and on His thigh a name written, King of kings, and Lord of lords." Revelation 19:16.

Before His presence "all faces are turned into paleness;" upon the rejecters of God's mercy falls the terror of eternal despair. "The heart melteth, and the knees smite together, ... and the faces of them all gather blackness." Jeremiah 30:6; Nahum 2:10. The righteous cry with trembling: "Who shall be able to stand?" The angels' song is hushed, and there is a period of awful silence. Then the voice of Jesus is heard, saying: "My grace is sufficient for you." The faces of the righteous are lighted up, and joy fills every heart. And the angels strike a note higher and sing again as they draw still nearer to the earth.

The King of kings descends upon the cloud, wrapped in flaming fire. The heavens are rolled together as a scroll, the earth trembles before Him, and every mountain and island is moved out of its place. "Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before Him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about Him. He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that He may judge His people." Psalm 50:3,4.”. *8

JESUS IS COMING!

1* Revelation 1:7
2* Mathew 24:30
3* 2 Peter 3:10
4* Mathew 24:40-41
5* Mathew 24:27
6*Mathew 24: 31
7* 1 Thessalonians 4:16
8* “The Great Controversy”, - “God's People Delivered”, Ellen G. White

SATURDAY THOUGHOUT ETERNITY

The law of God is immutable. We understand that God is eternal, His word is eternal and His law is eternal. It is inconceivable to think that if God himself did not break or change His law but instead gave his only son to fulfill it, that we are no longer subject to it. Even worse is to think that a human being can change God’s law.

The Bible sets up the law as something which reflects the character and justice of God. The inspired pen,

“'[b]y the law is the knowledge of sin.' 1 John 3:4; Romans 3:20. In order to see his guilt, the sinner must test his character by God's great standard of righteousness. It is a mirror which shows the perfection of a righteous character and enables him to discern the defects in his own” *1

The bible continues to say:

“love is the fulfillment of the law” *2,

“Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and your law the truth” *3,

“Therefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good” *4,

"For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome” *5,

“The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul...” *6

Saying that we no are longer subject to the law or that the law has been changed means that the character of God and His justice have changed.

Those who think this must try their hardest to avoid the fact that,

“…God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.” *7

It is true that we are saved by grace but there is a prerequisite to receiving the pardon of Christ. Genuine repentance can only occur when the character and justice of Christ is reflected by us in light of His commandments. The law is like a mirror which shows us our sins, the impurities that exist within us and reminds us how much God hates sin. For that reason Jesus tell us:

“If you love Me, keep My commandments.” *8

The fourth commandment (the Sabbath) has always been a point of discussion. When culminating the creation, God

“… rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.” *9

This same language we find in God’s commandments,

"[f]or in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.” *10

What differences exists between Saturday, Sunday or any other day if the objective is to worship God? But in Scripture there is no other day which the Lord has rested, blessed and sanctified aside from Saturday. Do you dare go against what God has sanctified? And if Jesus himself fulfilled the commandment, for on Saturdays He went to the synagogue *11, can any human being say that it is no longer necessary to fulfill a commandment that God himself fulfilled?

What importance does the Sabbath have for our times? As much in Genesis as in Exodus the fourth commandment is based on the principle of creation. Saturday is a reminder of who our Creator is. The message of the first angel reminds us,

“[f]ear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.'” * 12

How extraordinary! The hour of His judgment has arrived reminding us that we will be judged by our works. And if by our love to God we have kept His commandments and we have repented of our sins, the Lord in his love and by His grace cleanses us from all traces of sin and saves us not because we have kept his law but because he loves us! For that reason Saturday is so important, because it leads us to worship the one that made the Heavens and the Earth, the sea and the fountains of waters. The enemy does not want us to worship our creator nor does he want us to be saved. He accomplishes this by saying that the law no longer exists or if it does exist, it has changed. For that reason the true worshippers of Christ stand out because they keep the commandments, especially the Sabbath (Saturday). Finally, I emphasize that in the new Heaven and Earth

“from one New Moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, all flesh shall come to worship before Me” *13

The Sabbath for all eternity will be kept as a reminder of who God is and what he has done for mankind.

JESUS IS COMING SOON!

1* The Conflict Of the Ages, “27 - Modern Revivals,” Elena G. White
2* Romans 13:10
3* Psalm 119:142
4* Romans 7:12
5* 1 John 5:3
6* Psalm 19:7
7* Eclesiastes 12:14
8* John 14:15
9* Genesis 2:2,3
10* Exodus 20:11
11* Luke 4:16
12* Revelations 14:7
13* Isaiah 66:23

COSMIC CONFLICT

The whole world seems to be in chaos. In the last week there have been several earthquakes, typhoons, floods, landslides and fires. To this we add the number of deaths caused by these events and other diseases which are increasing. The economic crisis which seemed to be improving is actually going from bad to worse. Governments seem to be collapsing like that of Honduras, Nigeria and Romania among others. We are seeing the spirit of God depart from this world as the character of Satan's rule is exposed to the entire universe.

In these difficult times our dependence in the Lord must increase. The enemy has unleashed every weapon in his arsenal so that few saved. Understanding that he and his angels lost the battle from the moment that Jesus resurrected, his sole purpose is to destroy humanity. But now that he knows there is little time the satan is doing everything in his power to achieve this goal. What horrible thought, the enemy knows that the Lord is coming but we do not. The enemy is preparing for the last great battle but we still are not.

The cosmic conflict is about to reach its conclusion. Since his fall, Lucifer has done everything possible to deceive and destroy God's government. For over 6,000 years he has attacked the seed of Eve, trying to prevent anyone from being saved. That is because if only one person is saved his argument against God's rule is invalidated. The death and resurrection of Jesus and the salvation of mankind reveals God's infinite love. His desire that we all live in heaven for all eternity proves to the entire universe that it is possible to live happily following his holy and righteous laws.

The question is simple. What are you doing to ensure your entry into heaven? Our salvation is a day to day matter. The Navy SEAL's have a saying, "The only easy day was yesterday." In this cosmic conflict the only easy day was yesterday. Today we fight hand in hand with Jesus because we do not know what tomorrow will bring, if in fact tomorrow comes. The difference however, is that Jesus has already conquered. It will be an uphill battle but with the power of the Holy Spirit we will be more than victorious through Jesus Christ. Take the armor of Christ, let us contemplate Him every day and endeavor to preach the Gospel so we may hasten His return. The final reward will exceed what we could ever imagine, heaven!

JESUS IS COMING SOON!

THE TRUTH ABOUT DEATH AND SPIRITUALISM

The deception of spiritualism will continue to increase until the Lord returns. The second angel's message says,

Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.*1

This message will again be preached but with greater force. We see that it is repeated but with more specificity in Revelation 18,

Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird!* 2

At this time the Lord ceases to intercede for his people, the period of grace has ended, the righteous are sealed and it is time to leave the cities. Since spiritualism is increasing it is now easier to conceive the idea that the enemy if possible will deceive even the elect. This deception began in the Garden of Eden where the serpent told Eve, "You will not surely die". *3. Since then, humans have had doubts about the state of the dead. King Saul wished to communicate with Samuel who had died so he went to visit a medium to conjure up his spirit. *4 Apparently Samuel’s spirit revealed what would happen to King Saul and his kingdom. Indeed, the words of this spirit came true. I therefore ask: Can the dead speak to us? Do the dead if they were good go to heaven or if they were evil go to hell? What really happens to us when we die?

To begin I want to emphasize that this is not a comprehensive study on this subject for it is very extensive. But Iknow the Bible is crystal clear on this topic.

For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing, and they have no more reward, for the memory of them is forgotten. Their love and their hate and their envy have already perished, and forever they have no more share in all that is done under the sun.*5

The Lord Jesus always compared death to sleep and we know that during sleep the person is basically in an unconscious state until woken.*6. They cannot participate in anything that goes on around them nor do they have knowledge of it. In John chapter 11 we find the conversation Jesus had with Martha. He tells Martha,

"I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, though he die, shall live."*6

This hope is now a reality because Christ died in the cross so that we might live. He conquered death and through Him everyone who has been laid to rest will conquer death. Martha although grief-stricken replies with hope,

"I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day."*6

How would it be possible for Lazarus to resurrect “at the last day” if he were already in heaven? Why would Jesus resurrect Lazarus on this occasion if he were already in heaven (he had expired four days ago) or about to go to heaven? I dare say what punishment for Lazarus, for he would have to leave the glory of heaven to return to this world of pain and suffering. Furthermore, it would leave me wondering how Lazarus could live peacefully and carefree in heaven knowing that Martha and Mary would continue suffering on this earth?

The truth is that we are composed of dust and the breath of life.*7. Upon our death, the dust returns to earth and the breath of life returns to God. There is no separate entity; life is composed of these two elements. When the Lord resurrected he told his disciples to touch his wound and even asked them for some food so that they may know his true nature. Jesus had been transformed to perfection for he was in route back to heaven but he wanted to clarify that the disciples were not looking at a spirit but instead at the same person that had been with them prior to his death on the cross.

Now as they said these things, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and said to them, “Peace to you.” But they were terrified and frightened, and supposed they had seen a spirit. And He said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His feet. But while they still did not believe for joy, and marveled, He said to them, “Have you any food here?” So they gave Him a piece of a broiled fish and some honeycomb. And He took it and ate in their presence….Now it came to pass, while He blessed them, that He was parted from them and carried up into heaven.*8

Believe it or not when the righteous are resurrected upon hi sreturn they will be real people, of flesh and bones just like Jesus was when he resurrected and ascended to heaven. However, they will be transformed and covered with immortality.

When the Lord resurrected Lazarus he gave the breath of life to his body. What is interesting is that Lazarus retained his identity, that is to say, his personality. When Lazarus was resurrected he was still the same person just as Jesus was still the same when he resurrected. The difference of course was that Jesus was now covered with immortality for he was ascending to heaven. That proves to us that God has the power to give life and he will awaken all those who have died believing in him on that great day.

On the other hand, Satan does not have the power to give life, only the ability to deceive. It was Satan himself or perhaps one of his agents that appeared to King Saul and not Samuel. Samuel had died and just as Martha stated “will be resurrected at the last day”. We must understand that any spirits that are conjured up are actually demons which try to predict the future. Herein is the great deception of Satan and only those who have actual knowledge of Scripture can withstand these deceptions.
Jesus is the only one who can deliver us for he has shown us the path in his word. Remember always that our hope is found in 1 Corinthians 15

Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed— in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” “O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?*9

We shall be clothed with immortality, but until the trumpet is blown and the Lord comes for them he will take us to heaven where we will dwell with Him forever.

JESUS IS COMING SOON!

1 * Revelation 14:8
2 * Revelation 18:2
3 * Genesis 3:4
4 * 1 Samuel 28
5* Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6
6* John 11
7 * Genesis 2:7
8* Luke 24:36-43, 52
9* 1 Corinthians 15:51-55