Is Jesus The Real Messiah - Video

Jesus' Last Words Reveal a Bible Secret

The purpose of this article is to answer two questions.

1. What were Jesus' last words on the cross?

2. Who actually spoke those words?

To answer both of those questions and shed some light upon what Jesus really said and what he meant, let's look at the Aramaic text and consult two expert translators of Ancient Aramaic, Dr. George Lamsa and Dr. Rocco Errico. "Why should we concern ourselves with Aramaic when we have the King James Bible, written in English?" you may ask.

The answer is that Jesus spoke Aramaic. Aramaic is an Eastern Language full of idioms and figures of speech. Many passages in the King James Bible that seem confusing and contradictory are just poor translations of Aramaic. For instance, in Luke 14:26 Jesus says, "If any man come to me, and hate not his father and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple."

Is this the same Jesus who taught love and tolerance? Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:44 (KJV) "But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray or them which despitefully use you, and persecute you."

The problem is that when the King James Bible was written the translator missed the intended meaning of one word in that verse and that changed the whole meaning of the verse. It is the Aramaic word, "sna". It is a word with 5 meanings. Just as there are words in English with multiple meanings, there are words in Aramaic with multiple meanings.

While one of the meanings of the word, "sna" is "hate" or "detest", it also means, "to stand straight," to "Put out a candle or light, " a "threshing floor," and "to set to one's side." (according to Dr. Errico in his book, "Let There be Light, the Seven Keys")

Considering Jesus' other quotes regarding love and forgiveness it is easy to see that he was using the last meaning of the word, "to put to one's side." In other words, in order to follow Jesus, one had to be ready to leave his or her family behind. Jesus was a radical religious leader who was at odds with the powerful Pharisees, during dangerous times. He knew some mothers and fathers would try to discourage their sons and daughters from following him so he made it clear that as much as his followers might love their parents, there might come a time when they would have to choose between their loved ones and Jesus.

Seeing how one word with multiple meanings can cause so much confusion, is it any wonder that Jesus' last words on the cross, a time of great fear, confusion, and anguish for his followers, would present such an opportunity for misquoting and misunderstanding?

We must also remember that Jesus was a good Jew who kept the law of Moses. At that time, when a pious Jew was dying, he or she would often recite the 22nd Psalm, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?" Therefore, many people believe that is what Jesus said as he was dying on the cross.

According to the gospel of Mathew, including all the Greek gospels, Jesus cried out in his own native Aramaic tongue, "Eli, Eli, l'mana Sabachtani?" Notice that it is phrased as a question and the gospels kept it in the original Aramaic.

If these words are considered as a question, then it appears Jesus is doubting why he is suffering and questioning the Father. According to Dr. Errico, this phrase could also be considered a declaration by Jesus. He believes it was a cry of victory by Jesus who realized that God's plan was being carried out exactly as intended.

Jesus may actually have said "El', el', l'mana shwaqthani," meaning "O God, O God To what a purpose you have kept me!"

According to Dr. Lamsa, in the Lamsa Bible Translation, the verse is "At about the ninth hour, Jesus cried out with aloud voice and said, "Eli, Eli, l'mana Shabakthani," meaning, "My God, My God, for this I was spared!" Dr. Lamsa actually footnoted the last part of this to indicate it means, "For this was my destiny!"

Once again, most of the confusion is over one word with multiple meanings, the Aramaic word 'shawaqthani." This word, found in Psalm 22, means, "Let me live," or "spare me," not forsake me. Dr. Lamsa was a native to Assyria and spoke Aramaic fluently as well as understanding the customs of Easterners. The phrase "l'mana shawaqthani" is used by people of that region to confirm one's own destiny. The root word, "shawaq," that is found Romans 11:4 may mean "to keep" or, as in Matt: 6:12, "to forgive."

Taken in the context of the rest of Jesus' teachings, it is my belief that he was indeed saying, in so many words, "This is what I have lived for and this is my destiny."

Which brings us to our second question, "Who actually spoke those words?" I know it was Jesus of Nazareth hanging on the cross, but Jesus himself told us that the things he did were actually done by the "Father" through Jesus.

In my book, "Your Loved Ones, Your Self; Finding and Raising the Family Within," I present the evidence , both scientific and religious, of the three parts of human consciousness, the subconscious, or lower self, the conscious mind, or middle self, and the Higher Self, or Loved Ones. I call them Loved Ones because our own Higher Self has two parts or natures, on paternal and the other maternal. We are a projection of their love and they are our connection to the inscrutable God.

The Essenes were a nature loving sect that lived in Jesus' time. They called themselves, "The children of light." The many references to light and the Father by Jesus and his disciples indicates that they were influenced by the teachings of the Essenes. The Essenes in turn were influenced by Huna, an ancient religion that spread from Africa throughout the East and finally as far as the islands of the Pacific where it is practiced to this day. In Huna we find a model for the 3 parts of consciousness I mentioned above.

Evidence of this belief in a paternal Higher Self that is above us and creates using light can be found in James 1;27, "Every good and perfect gift is from above and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variableness, neither shadow of turning."

It seems that Jesus and his disciples recognized the Higher Consciousness in each of us and spoke of God and the Father In James 1:27 there is a clear reference to God and the Father. "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this..." This is a clear distinction between God and a Higher Being referred to as, "the Father."

Jesus himself drew the distinction when he is quoted in John 20:17, "Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father; but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and to your Father: and to my God, and to your God." (The King James Bible and the Aramaic translation are in agreement on this critical verse).

A more complete and thorough explanation of this can be found in, "Your Loved Ones, Your Self; Finding and Raising the Family Within," Infinity Publishing 2007.

Our Loved Ones, our Higher Self, project themselves into this world as human beings. Each of us has a Father in heaven, in other words, a Higher Self within. We have a purpose in life chosen by our Higher Self. As the physical body of the man Jesus was dying, the exultant cry of his Higher Self, his Father who had worked through him throughout his life, cried out in exultation, letting the world know that it had accomplished its mission, through its son, Jesus. That is the answer to who spoke Jesus' last words on the cross. It was the Father, his own Higher Consciousness. It is the same Higher Consciousness that each of us share and that is a part of an inscrutable creator. We can communicate with that Higher Self and it is our link to God. On that level we have some understanding of God.

But just as Jesus taught us the lesson of vicarious atonement, he also taught us, as in the Lord's Prayer, to pray and talk to our Father, the one in heaven, the one who is with God and a part of that realm, but not God. Through that Higher Self we may each approach and connect with an inscrutable creator and that is what Jesus last words demonstrated. His Higher Consciousness, his Father, was speaking not only to this world, but also to God.

Wil Langford, R. Hy. offers his guided meditations for relaxation and exploring the self. at http://9best.info/guided_meditation.html

His guided meditations for relaxation and happiness have helped many people to find happiness and change their lives for the better.

He is an expert on human consciousness and the author of Parts Consciousness Therapy. http://yourlovedonesyourself.com as explained in his book, "Your Loved Ones, Your Self; Finding and Raising the Family Within."

How Close Can You Get to a Tiger?

I suppose the entire question of my entry today ought to continue... "before you get mauled?"

I started getting into tigers a few years ago when I found a Wal-Mart bigger-than-life poster of a tiger's head. That thing has been glaring back at me all these months, to my wife's regular disapproval. I've actually had to hide him in the walk-in closet. He's that intense.

Then came North Korea. Some of you may know that the Siberian tiger is one of that country's national symbols. A fitting one. Fierce. Aloof. Threatening. And beautiful. Like that Wal-Mart poster, North Korea has been staring me down, challenging me to stare back and wonder.

Next there was the Lincoln Park Zoo. Twice in the last few weeks I've made a trek over there just to get away for a day. Both times I was captivated by this very cat from the East. In fact, on one end of his area there is a place where observers can look through a glass barrier . Most don't go there because Kitty is usually prowling around somewhere else, if he's awake.

But occasionally he paces. Every time I saw him this week he was pacing. Back and forth. Back and forth. And for one magical quarter of an hour, he paced right next to the window. It's hard being my age at these times. Occasionally I actually do get excited about something, but I'm not allowed to show it. As quickly as I decently could I scrambled - no, just walked - over to the window. As people tired and moved on, I moved in, and within a short time I practically had my nose on that glass.

The tiger did better. Every time he came to where I was standing, he actually bumped his head on that window, then moved on in his circuit, 'round and 'round. I was literally one inch from one of the fiercest of all God's creation. And yet I lived to tell of it.

The people crowding in were making growl sounds and pretending their hands were paws, you know the drill. Mothers were teaching their children. Teens were impressing their friends with noises and gestures. Ol' Bob stood there in awe.

If the friendly cat had bumped that glass a little harder, and the smallest crack had formed, we all would have been lunch for pussy-cat. As it was, we were just an audience being entertained.

It hit me days later that many of us are involved in a spectator sport when it comes to North Korea. We read the stories, we visit China and South Korea, we give our money, we even pray, and we might even think we understand the animal on the other side of the glass. But we don't.

There is no way to know what people who live in a "tiger's" world feel, on the other side of a zoo window. "Remember the prisoners as if bound with them" may be one of the toughest commands ever issued. How can I really feel what they feel? Skip a meal? Pray a little more? Wear old clothes? Beat myself? Abandon all media?

Who among us dares to enter other worlds, as did our Lord? Who goes beyond the glass and suffers whatever consequences there might be? Until we do, we may be good story-tellers, good fund-raisers, teary-eyed romantics who feel imaginary pain, but we must not conclude that therefore we have taken up the cross which Jesus has our brothers carrying.

I trust I am not being too harsh. Zoos are for looking, and looking is a good thing. But eventually we must, I believe, shed the zoo mentality, go out into the field, and confront a tiger. Mauled or not.

Look for Bob Faulkner's home page on http://sermonaudio.com There you will find a combination of love for the Scriptures and a desire for North Korean believers to have their needs met. There are nearly 300 blogs , ovber 200 Bible teaching MP3's, lists of resources, NK picture albums, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together! Contact me any time at diakonos3@gmail.com

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Would love to fellowship with believers who respond.

Learning Meditation Or Watching

The Story of Chosun, Part 13

The Yi dynasty continues its fabled reign in this the 15th century since our Lord walked the earth. Unfortunately, the Lord of time has not yet been introduced into Korean history. Buddhism, though given up by officials, now surges among the people, competing with the ever-present Confucius.

A series of kings come and go. In 1450, Munjong, unhealthy and unwise. 1452, his son, whose uncle, the prince Su-Yang of Sejong's reign, takes the kingdom with violence. Though his start is very bad, his reign continues the reforms of his illustrious father. He resigns in 1468, giving his office to his son, who dies in 1469.

Sunjong is next, a Confucianist who refuses Buddha altogether. He orders all obscenity dropped from songs and poems. Music is ordered to be more serious. A nice touch. Would that our own nation could get a bit of this wisdom.

Sunjong's death in 1494 brings Yun-san, the son of Dad's concubine, a troublesome sort. One of his first objectives as King of Chosun is to avenge insults to his mother. Then, he kills his tutor, and slaughters hundreds that are in any way connected to denegrating the reputation of the Queen Mother. It is in fact a reign of terror. And debauchery. He defiles the Confucian temple. He invites sorcerers and witches to return to their crafts.

By 1506 the people have had enough. They banish him. Ah for the times when the people can banish a bad ruler! People enjoy being led by one who is wise and fair and strong. They eventually will find a way to topple an evil man. Consider Romania's recent history.

King Chungjong is next and it's back to reforms. In his reign we enter the "golden age" of Korean morals, the highest point of its literature, the apex of its cultural distinctives. Everyone is reacting to the evil of Yun-san, and in doing so, a class of "puritans" is created out of the dust of his degradation.

It is 1524. More tragedy. Cholera kills 7,700 citizens in Pyongyang. Later pestilence sweeps the northern province of Hamgyung. Floods devastate yet other regions. It is not always pleasant in the "land of morning calm."

In 1544 Prince In-jong ascends to the throne at his father's death. But through an unscrupulous mother aided by the politics of the time, 12-year-old Myung-jong, his brother, takes power via regent Mom. Through her, Buddhism is given a serious shot in the arm. In a short time, though, the regency is ended, and In-jong reigns, bringing needed improvements to the Kingdom.

Meanwhile, troubles from the north, and the Japanese in the south... we'll continue the 16th century next time.

A thought. As the Korean military was raised up and usually won when it fought, so a Christian militia of prayer warriors needs to beseech God day and night for the souls of this land. The battle for Korea is still a very real one.

Look for Bob Faulkner's home page on http://sermonaudio.com There you will find a combination of love for the Scriptures and a desire for North Korean believers to have their needs met. There are nearly 300 blogs, over 200 Bible teaching MP3's, lists of resources, NK picture albums, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together! Contact me any time at diakonos3@gmail.com

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Would love to fellowship with believers who respond .

What Happened To The Wise Men

What Or Who Is Holding Back Antichrist?

Daniel and Paul said a lot of things in common about antichrist. But Paul adds a few very important facts from the revelations given him personally.

First he indicates the difference between what men like Antiochus Epiphanes and Titus did, historically, and what antichrist will do. He claims that antichrist will profane an end- time temple, not by placing an idol in it, not by offering a pig at its altars, but by entering that holy structure himself and proclaiming to the world that he is the God of Israel! He will claim to be God in the flesh!

Paul jumps from that astounding fact to the fact that the Thessalonians should now know (since he visited them and told them, or because of something he just shared) what is holding back the rise of antichrist. If they should know, perhaps we should know too. This is not meant to be a secret. Yet this passage is under contention in most church circles that discuss it. It is as though they too have unwittingly entered into the mystery of the "holding back" of information, as Daniel was told to do in Daniel 12, so that the information would not be lost on persons who did not need it. The more our "scholars" try to unlock these verses, the more bound they become!

The prevalent view is that the one "holding back" or restraining the antichrist and thus Christ's return, is the Holy Spirit. The teaching goes that when the Spirit, which lives in the church, rises with the church and out of the world, before antichrist and before the tribulation, to a safe place in Heaven, then antichrist, who has been waiting for this very thing, is now free to do whatever he wants! He will then rise to power.

Does not compute.

1. The Spirit's presence is not confined to the church. Remember in your own life how the Spirit came from outside of you to the inside of you to bring you to Christ? Before you were in Christ, the Spirit was working with you.

2. The Bible already says that there will be a falling away of truth and righteousness to allow for his rise. It is not the removal of bodies but the removal of faith that gives antichrist the nod in any generation. The Bible gives several examples of Satan fully working his work on the earth, with God's permission, and the Holy Spirit still here. His work on Job and Jesus are two glaring examples. Satan does not need the Spirit's removal, only the Spirit's permission, to do his own evil will on earth.

3. Without the Spirit in the earth, how can those be saved who will indeed come to Christ during the Tribulation period? All of those who contend for a pre-tribulation rapture agree that there are indeed saints here during that evil time, but they refuse to allow that they are part of the Body of Christ, the Church! If they are "saints", holy ones, they had to be saved by the Holy Spirit.

I believe that the concept of "restraining" is not all that complicated. In fact John the revelator gives us a classic example in Revelation 9. There, an angel is given a key to the Bottomless Pit. When the key is used, there is unleashed on earth a plague of "locusts". We are told later that it is out of this same Pit that will come "the beast." Cannot we assume that a similar angel is now restraining this beast, and that at a command from Jesus he will open that Pit once more, and free the one who is now being restrained there?

Another key example is back in the book of Daniel (10-11), where Gabriel tells Daniel that he can only stay a short time because he has to get back into the heavenlies to help Michael fight with the demon spirits of Persia and Greece. Angels under God's direction are restraining world powers all the time, so that everything is done at "the appointed time."

I believe that he who now restrains, using Paul's language (2:7), is indeed an angelic force keeping antichrist in place until the exactly correct time. When the angel is told to step aside ("he is taken out of the way", 2:7) the lawless one will be revealed.

That tells us that the lawless one was being held prisoner in Paul's day (he who now restrains, 2:7). This fact alone rules out the possibility that the coming seventh world emperor, still future in Paul's day and ours, will be "killed with the sword" and rise again as antichrist immediately. Besides that, Daniel 9 confirms that it is the "prince" who both makes and breaks the covenant with Israel. Thus he must reign the full seven years of the period, not split it with that other emperor.

Paul shows us, further, what is revealed by John about how antichrist will surface as a world leader. It seems that every step will be prefaced by a lying wonder or miracle. The part of the world that does not know the true God will have no choice but to believe that this man is God.

So antichrist lives somewhere now, in the netherworld under angelic supervision. When the time is right, he will come to power and fulfill in detail every word of God.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

If The Greeks Were Wrong

The Last Words Of Daniel

Daniel's last words (Daniel 11-12). He speaks of one who will attempt to rule all, even heavenly things. There is an indication that things military will be his god. He will be attacked by Egypt and perhaps Syria. He will retaliate with great force and take over other countries. Some will escape, some will not. From the east and north come rumblings of approaching trouble, perhaps China and Russia in a united front, as they often are. In a last mad dash toward world conquest he arrives, perhaps, at Armageddon. But his time runs out. He is unceremoniously picked up "by the scruff of the neck" and thrown by King Jesus into his eternal home far from the love of God.

Much of what could be said about the specifics of antichrist's rule would be speculation. My goal here is to specify who Scripture has highlighted as the man of sin. In chapter 11 of Daniel I believe it is clear that the Spirit led Daniel to review in prophecy pre-Roman history so as to show us one man, an evil man, a man who desired but never obtained world prominence. A man who passed off the scene for many centuries but who returned, invigorated by demonic power to finish in the end time what he began earlier: the elimination of the Jewish people, and the enthronement of himself in the place of all gods.

Chapter 12 paints the added touch we need to complete this picture. The angel relates to Daniel that it is at the time of the reigning of "the king", that the unparalleled time of tribulation occurs, spoken of also by Jesus as the forerunner to His own approach.

Finally in the book of Daniel, the prophet himself needs attention. He is told to seal the book until the time of the end, in response to his many questions about the future. I am not sure how Daniel and the Spirit "sealed" this work but it is a fact that men through the ages have not had access mentally to it. It has been literally a sealed book. Incomprehensible. Under attack. Rejected. Until recently, as more and more people get a grasp of what this book really means. That could only mean that the time of the end is upon us, for that time was to be the time when the sealing would be over, and the book made available (12:9).

Lastly there is a question of timing, after which the book abruptly ends. The phrase "time of the end" blends into verse 10 and lets us understand that from the time of the abomination of desolation, the event we have been tracing at Jesus' advice (Matthew 24:15), coupled with the taking away of the daily sacrifice, which happens at the same time, until the very end of all the suffering, shall be 1290 days, a little over three and one half years. In forty-five more days, something blessed happens. By then, are we in the Millennial reign, at the wedding banquet, the Coronation? And by then, Satan is punished, the world is liberated, we come into our own.

And Daniel will be there, says the last verse of his book. Rising from the dead with the saints who are raptured from earth will be the revered prophet, his new body strong and intact, his questions all answered. And I for one look forward to meeting him! The announcement of his presence there, by the way, confirms to us that his entire prophecy was indeed about the "end of days."

What a blessed man! What a blessed book! What a blessed hope!

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

Putting God On Trial For All The

The Trumpet Of The Lord Shall Sound

It was one of our favorite songs. "When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, and time shall be no more." Back in the days when I first heard and sang that great hymn of the faith, I had never seen the Biblical status of the trumpet, the Hebrew shofar. A quick study reveals this dynamic instrument, the horn of a ram, in battles, in praise to God, as an instrument of warning. But for us in this later generation, perhaps its most compelling usage is as the signal of the end.

Sounding much like the Spirit's words to the prophet Daniel, the New Testament's Seer, John, is shown a mighty angel (Revelation 10) with a mighty announcement. He plants feet on land and sea and cries out like a lion, lifting his holy hand to Heaven, and swears that time shall be no more. Just like the song said.

He goes on to tell the exact moment of that ending. It will be signaled by the sounding of the last of a series of seven trumpet blasts. Mere poetry? In the next chapter that very trumpet, the seventh, sounds off. Immediately the kingdoms of this world fall to Christ Jesus! His wrath falls on the planet. There are judgments and resurrections. Time as we know it has ended.

Knowing that the seventh trumpet is the last trumpet before the very end helps clear up a mystery that modern pop theologians have introduced in these modern days about the timing of the second coming. For John is not the only one who mentions a trumpet at the end. Jesus and Paul do too.

Jesus says (Matthew 24) that after the tribulation period, nature will give out, Jesus will appear, and at the sound of a trumpet, He'll gather His own to Himself. We call this gathering the rapture today. That word has scared a lot of people away, but all it means is that we go from where we are to where He is.

Paul, in I Corinthians 15 says that one day we will all be changed from these vile bodies. It will happen in an instant. And that instant, he says, is the last trumpet. "For the trumpet will sound and the dead will be raised incorruptible. And we shall be changed."

The message is clear and consistent. World chaos. World war. World dictator. Then suddenly in the air Jesus appears. The angel sounds the shofar, and off we go forever to be with the Lord. Great words of comfort. Great words of hope.

I cannot end such talk without another plea for my brothers and sisters suffering in North Korea and other prison lands where the Gospel cannot be preached freely. Let us continue to ask God that this wonderfully good news of an eternally righteous government where there is no poverty or death or suffering will be allowed to be spread up and down Korea's mountains and valleys. Ask God to add souls to His eternal Kingdom, to teach them His Word, to prepare them for that last trumpet sounding "when the dead in Christ shall rise and the glory of His resurrection share."

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. I have created over 200 blogs and the site features a live news feed, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosen together! Contact me any time at diakonos5@yahoo.com

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. I love to write Scriptural works. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond.

Something You Don

Gotten a Rhema Lately?

Bible believers should enjoy bursting bubbles, if done with love, of course. Bubbles are all over the Body these days. Like for example the proposed difference between the logos word and the rhema word.

We're told by those who are supposed to know that the logos is the inspired word found in Scripture but not necessarily a word to bless or inspire us personally. The rhema, they say, is a special message directly from God to the heart, a personal word. It may or may not be in the Bible.

A believer, at least this believer, can accept the notion of a living God who speaks a living Word to His people, enlightening them as they are reading the Holy Word. We also must acknowledge that there are portions of the inspired Book which are very difficult to digest, other portions for which we are not ready.

So the division is not so bad, but the choice of terms won't stand a Biblical test. Yes, both words are in the Greek. Both mean roughly the same thing: an utterance, something said. The key is how both words are used in the Bible.

How about when talking about a gift of the Spirit, the word of wisdom? Seems like that should be rhema by the current definition. Nope. logos. How about when Paul is talking generally about the law and says it can be fulfilled in one word? "logos"? No, "rhema."

"I say to you by the word of the Lord..." Paul's clear personal word from God to individual believers. You guessed it. Logos.

There are times when both words fit the modern description and times when they don't. In other words, the sheep have fallen for another fad. Not a big point. But everyone reading can think of a similar silliness floating around. Let's be on our guard and give no place to anything God has not said.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. I have created over 200 blogs and the site features a live news feed , lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together! Contact me any time at diakonos5@yahoo.com

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. I love to write Scriptural works. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond.

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Prayer In My Earlier Life and Its Effects

Impact Of Christian Mentors
Another Crappy Rule In The Bible

The Heretic's Daughter - Religion, Fear and the Salem Witch Trials

The Heretic's Daughter is author Kathleen Kent's first novel, and it is a stunning debut. It takes place in and around Salem, Massachusetts during the 1690's, before and during the infamous Salem witch trials. The narrator's mother, Martha Carrier, is based on the real woman of the same name, who was one of the first woman to be tried and hung in the trials. Ms. Kent is herself a tenth generation descendant of Martha Carrier.

Ms. Kent has done her research, and she does a beautiful job of depicting the harsh realities of life during this time. While the initial Puritan settlers had come to this land to escape persecution, and hoped to found a new religious community, they were besieged by plagues, crop failures, and attacks by indigenous tribes. The child mortality rate was so high, we are told in the first pages, "that some families did not name their child until the child was past twelve months and more likely to live. And in many households if a baby died, that same baby's name would be passed on to the next born. And to the very next if that babe died as well."

This is from the novel's narrator, Sarah Carrier, Martha Carrier's daughter. If Sarah sometimes seems distant and unfeeling as she describes horrific events, it is no wonder, based on the climate in which she was raised. In fact, Sarah's voice and attitude was at first a put-off to me, making her difficult to relate to or feel for. But as the novel progresses, her voice becomes one of the book's greatest strengths, because it provides such a vast contrast to our emotion-laden, Oprah-fueled times. Sarah helps us to see what a stark and difficult existence does to people, and as she does mature - through watching her mother's trial and surviving her own incarceration - her growth and new-found wisdom is that much more evident.

As the novel begins, Sarah and her family are on their way to live with her grandmother, and, unbeknown to them, are bringing smallpox with them to their new community. This fact, along with Martha Carrier's headstrong and outspoken nature, will ultimately lead to the family becoming a target when the terrible accusations begin. Those accusations, as presented in The Heretic's Daughter, gain traction in the community because of the lethal combination of fear and damnation-based religion. The community, facing so many challenges to its existence, cannot fathom why they are being targeted by God for such wrath. Surely there must be some offense, some sin, that they are being punished for? In their desperation, they seek out the 'sinners' amongst them, literally demonizing their own neighbors for the smallest of offenses. They seek to scapegoat and purge - as so many have done in the name of religion throughout history.

From there, the paralysis of fear takes over, with each new charge silencing more people within the community, all seeking to protect their own lives and families. Children as young as four are taken into custody - since the 'devil' is behind it all, and can take over anyone's mind, no one is considered innocent. Quite the contrary, during the trials the defendants are most definitely considered guilty until proven innocent. And their innocence is in the hands of several hysterical, adolescent girls no less (I'll let you read the book to learn more about this.)

One of the most touching aspects of the book is how Martha gets Sarah to save herself, helping Sarah to realize that behind her mother's stern exterior lies the greatest of maternal loves. While Sarah at first despises her mother's difficult personality, wishing she would just capitulate to others, she comes to realize her mother's seeming obstinance is actually born of tremendous faith and wisdom. This is exactly the opposite of what her community elders teach - that strict obedience is the foundation for faith. As Sarah observes, that obedience, along with fear, is what allows the madness to continue for so long.

And so The Heretic's Daughter works on at least three levels. First, as a gripping historical novel that masterfully depicts a certain setting and time period. Second, as a personal story of a mother and adolescent daughter struggling to understand each other. And third, as a cautionary tale about how religion can be twisted when a society is ruled by fear.

Lisa Erickson is a mom, meditation teacher, and writer. Visit her blog http://www.MommyMystic.wordpress.com for spiritual book reviews and information on meditation and spirituality

Good Explanation of Old Testament Tithing

Greg Vanden Berge Quotes
Does God Make Mistakes

Guides and Spirit Helpers

As group consciousness grows and the electromagnetic field of energy gains strength, people are becoming aware of their spirit guides and helpers

In the New Energy and oneness of consciousness, it is getting easier to sense the presence of spirit helpers coming around us.

These can be sensed in many ways. I have noticed them as a slight disturbance in the field of energy, in the aura of the body: a slight tingling on the surface, or the sensation of cobwebs around the skin.

On one occasion I could see the outline of the presence and noticed a breaking up of the normal space/time as the entity passed by. This was like a crack in one reality as another reality came through.

Spirit guides and helpers are usually invisible but some sensitive people can see them with clairvoyance or connect with one of the other "clairs", like clairsentience.

In our quiet moments or times of danger, we can communicate with these Spirit helpers. Sometimes one of them puts themselves forward to act as our Doorkeeper: a single channel through which communication passes to our Higher Self and the Spirit and Angelic Realms.

Spirit helpers will work with us if asked; so it is important to clearly feel what we would like to show up in our life.

We can communicate with them with our imagination, day dreaming or night dreaming. It is easiest to connect through images, symbols or pictures, using our powers of visualisation on a feeling level.

When working with the Spirit world it is good to think of the perfect outcome or creation, as the imagination is unbounded and has a field of all possibilities as its basis. There is no need to be concerned with where the resources are going to come from as the Spirit world has infinite energy at its disposal.

Evolutionary desires are loved by the Spirit world as the nature of life is to grow and expand. New ideas which have never been put forward before are appreciated by the Spirit world as they open up new channels for energy to flow in.

Things which help to bring wealth and joy into other people's lives by giving from your heart using your creative aspects in an artistic or cultural field gain a lot of support and help.

Using Spirit communication through telepathy and subtle imagination of specific connections to loved ones and family, bring the awareness of this power to the surface of one's consciousness.

Relax and know there is nothing to fear except fear itself, as on this level of awareness you see your subtle connection to everything: it all becomes you.

As you become skilled in using the more subtle levels of the conscious mind and feelings to interact with Spirit, you are also helping to bring these gifts to more of the population: as your awareness grows, so does the general awareness in group consciousness.

You will be helping the planet to evolve and grow in the New Energy and increasing the power and awareness of the Spirit kingdom and all the various levels of spirit guides and helpers in the Angelic kingdom.

There are also healing helpers psychic surgeons (surgeons in Spirit) to help improve the health of your own body and those around you.

So why not spend a few minutes each day using your spirit guides and helpers to connect with the subtle feelings, to communicate with your Higher Self, inviting them to co-create with you different aspects of your life.

Message channelled by George Lockett (C) Copyright 2006, All Rights Reserved.

* New book * "A Journey into the Self -- the multi-dimensional nature of being human": HealerGeorge Web Site and New Book

Description: What is this book going to do for YOU? For those who are seeking a complete energetic makeover, as you read it you will feel a stirring and awakening in the depths of your heart. For those who have questions about Shifts in Consciousness, Energy Balancing and Healing within the body, you will find clear answers.

Read HealerGeorges Blog: Curezone Blog or ask at question at: Ask HealerGeorge

Was Jesus Really Born On December 25th - Video

Questions To Ask Your Pastor
Are Your Prayers Being Answered

Darwin, Evolution & Spirituality

2009 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin, author of On the Origin of Species and creator of the theory of evolution by natural selection. Although the scientific theories of relativity and quantum physics suggest the underlying nature of reality is very different than what we perceive through our senses, and thus have immense philosophical significance, they actually have virtually no impact upon our daily lives. In contrast, Darwin's widely accepted, but highly controversial, theory of evolution by natural selection has far reaching implications upon human society.

In essence evolution challenges the concept of an intelligent creator of life (God), instead suggesting it spontaneously arose and thrived through the principle of the survival of the fittest. Each new living entity carried random differences (mutations) from its parents. Those individuals with the differences that best suited the environment were most likely to reproduce, thus positive traits were maintained while negative ones tended to be eliminated. Over a very long timescale we have arrived at the marvelous biodiversity we are privileged to be part of today.

Given the influence of (Christian) religion on Victorian English society Darwin was initially reluctant to publish his conclusions, waiting some 20 years after his epic voyage on the Beagle before going public upon realizing another investigator, Alfred Russel Wallace, had reached the same conclusions. Unsurprisingly his work met with criticism and ridicule, with Darwin often lampooned as part-man part-ape.

Despite a mass of evidence confirming the validity of evolution as a description of how life on earth came about many religious fundamentalists continue to favor creationism, ie belief that life was created by a supreme being as currently found.

A major criticism of evolution is the interpretation of "survival of the fittest" that stands as a justification of eugenics and warfare. By pitting nation against nation, race against race, ideology against ideology, the whole process of human progress is speeded up by anticipating nature in eliminating the inferior.

Although the weight of evidence stands against creationism, there are arguments that suggest evolution may not be the whole story. It cannot satisfactorily account for acts of altruism. Nor can it be denied that the immense superiority enjoyed by the human race has been achieved more by cooperation than competition.

The genetic composition with which we are born is simply the cards we are dealt (or more likely, choose) at the start of the game. It is how we play/use those cards that forms our true purpose of being.

A Spiritual interpretation considers the material plane we inhabit as just one particular level of reality. A level that is subordinate to more fundamental, ie Spiritual levels. Evolution may be likened to Newtonian physics, which very accurately approximates (but doesn't fully describe) reality. Evolution describes the development of life on one level. But it doesn't tell the whole story.

Spirit created the earth (physical) plane in which it could individuate and thus act out myriad scenarios. But the earth plane is denser and more bound by deterministic law than the ethereal realms. Quantum physics has revealed it has but a small window of freedom at the sub-atomic level through which the Will of Spirit may shape it. Evolution is an approximation, albeit a very good one. It is the most efficient means by which the diversity, in which our incarnate interactions take place, could have arisen.

Nature is cruel, described by Tennyson as "red in tooth and claw." Indeed, a recent BBC wildlife documentary Nature's Great Events received complaints on the amount of cruelty depicted. Such complaints stand as testimony to the vast degree by which humanity stands above its brethren.

At a broader level, from a Spiritual perspective, nature's cruelty is insignificant compared to the benefits of progress. The momentary injustices and suffering on this plane are soon washed away by the realization of eternality. On the Spiritual level those that suffer are all volunteers, and are ultimately rewarded in some way for their pains.

Undoubtedly, Darwin's theory of natural selection is a mighty leap forward in our understanding of how we came about. It accurately describes how so many different living species have come to inhabit this beautiful planet. However, as much as we may know about the components and mechanism that form a human being these things can never inform us about the experience of being human, nor explain that deep inner certainty of free will or the desire for purpose and fulfillment.

Johnny is the editor of new age spirituality - exploring the idea that this life, this world, is not the totality of our existence. In fact, it might be just one small part of something much bigger, just one tiny step along an infinite journey... Have your say on our forum the hang out.

Can You Ask God For Wisdom

Personal Development
Are Christians Really Interested

Find Out Why You Believe in Your Religion

Whenever I ask someone involved in a religious organization, the question, do you really believe in your religion? Most of these people will often answer would be yes and start their religious conversion. Some of these people can become very intrusive if I don't stop them soon, very few of these people listen with an open mind.

I have talked to quite a few men and women about their beliefs over the years and still find it hard to believe that most of them live a life of faith with very little understanding or education about their religion. Now some strong believers might take offense to that statement, while others will listen to what I said and start doing a little more research on their religion.

Most of these religions throughout the world make perfectly good sense to their followers and I understand the reasoning behind some of them, it's all they know, everyone around them believes in the same religion and they get some sort of happiness and joy from it.

It's not hard to imagine a young child, walking around with strong religious beliefs if their parents are strong believers in it also. These children grow up and eventually train their children to follow the same path of their parents. Our children should be able to choose, what they will believe in, by the time they are adults.

This is a natural process of life, your parents learned from their parents and whenever someone asked them a question that they really couldn't answer or were uncomfortable answering, they can always reply with, I'm living a life based on faith or you just have to believe. You have to believe that someone is looking out for you and taking care of you. Most of these people think that something else is responsible for the events that take place in their life.

Is it possible for people that live a life of faith to educate themselves about their religion, to find the origin and maybe the destination of their religions. Could these people actually assume responsibility for their choices, whether they're good or bad. It's often hard to listen to somebody tell me that some evil entity made them do something bad. These people are easily convinced by others who agree with them and support them with their statements and beliefs. This seems to be where the biggest problem lies.

Once the people around us support our beliefs, they soon become realities in our lives. These realities will be transferred to others around us and give them support eventually about their beliefs. It's like a vicious circle that never ends. One believe supports another belief, until it's a fact.

Education is the path to freedom and will soon deliver the students from religious bondage. Someone a long time ago said," Seek and You Shall Find, Knock on My Door and I Will Open It.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development. Check out one of his recommended books, Science Getting Rich.

Greg is currently working on a religious education also visit our article library, filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Prayer In My Earlier Life and Its Effects

Religion Articles
Ask And You Might Receive Or Ask

The Amazing Power of Personal Prayer

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Matthew 7:7-8 & 3 Nephi 14:7-8

What do I pray for?

ANYTHING!

So long as it is good, you can pray for anything! The well being of your friends and family, to find a job, to pass exams, for health, wealth, safety, comfort, inspiration, direction, to find a partner, more intelligence, more love, to receive answers to questions you are unsure of.
The list really is endless. Prayer is also the perfect opportunity to express gratitude!
You can gain anything you need from prayer, and the best thing is its free and lines are open 24/7.

How do I pray?

If you have never prayed before, don't worry, today is a good day to start. Whether you believe in God or not, you can still pray. All world religions teach some form of prayer. I know many people who do not believe in God but sometimes when they have nowhere else to turn they resort to prayer. Prayer is available to everyone and is effective always.

1. Step one is to ADDRESS who are praying to. A Christian may say Dear god. A Muslim may call upon Allah. It's different for different people. For me, I have always used "Dear Heavenly Father". It is down to you though, whatever feels comfortable.

Before posting a letter, you would need to write a name and address first, otherwise the chances of your communication being received by that whom you intended it for, would be very slim. The same principle applies for prayer.

2. Step two is to THANK. Be grateful, list and thank for all the things which you have received already. If you do not feel you have anything, start off small. Look around you, your bed is a comfortable place to sleep; do you take that for granted? Not everyone has a warm bed to sleep in at night. Your mobile phone perhaps? Pretty handy, you can stay in touch with people who may be miles away. A book you have been reading, a friend who gave you good advice, a stranger who smiled, again the list is endless. What will happen is your eyes will suddenly be open to how much you do already have!

If someone had supplied you with many gifts, surely you would say thanks, before you asked for more? Of course you would, with this done and an attitude of gratitude in your heart you are ready to ask for more.

3. Step three is to ASK. Don't be shy! Ask for what you need. The universe is made of abundance. There is enough for everyone. Whatever it is you desire, it's out there already, waiting for you to make your claim. If its answers you need, there is someone who knows and is ready to supply the answer. If it's an opportunity, one will open up.

Pray on behalf of others and all the things they stand in need of too.

4. End the prayer. Some say amen. For me, I say "In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen"
But again, I am not here to preach, it's your choice, just make sure you end the prayer in faith and a spirit of expectancy.

TIPS TO REMEMBER

Believe! Believe that your prayer is being heard and will be answered.

Pray every day! Morning and night. Pray as and when new situations arise.

Keep a prayer in your heart consistently.

If you get the urge, do It and do It Now! Trust your instincts, if you feel something prompting you to pray, just go with it, even you don't understand why at the time.

If you feel a resistance to pray, fight it! Do it anyway, you will feel glad you did.

As well as your prayers, practice autosuggestion. Autosuggestion is a form of informal prayer.

Meditate. Especially when seeking answers. Listen out for the answers. They will come, I assure you. Ponder the meaning of your answers.

Pray out loud

Pray in private. Let your inner most thoughts and feelings be known. Sometimes a solitary, quiet place outside or just your bedroom is fine.

If you are feeling skeptical, just try it what do you have to lose? I am confident, that you will discover that it works.

I know praying works. I have had it work many, many times, too often to number.

http://josephwilliamsuccesscoach.blogspot.com or http://knowers-ark.com

You Shouldn't Believe Everything In The Bible - Spare The Rod

Questions To Ask Your Pastor
Nothing Will Be Impossible

Dispel Grief With a Positive Bereavement Poem

After a loved one dies, it feels like the world has come to a crashing stop. Grief and mourning can be so intense that you feel like you are sailing through a hurricane and then sinking in a sea of quicksand. A positive, faith and hope filled bereavement poem can help dispel grief and raise your spirits. The dark clouds of grief and loss can leave you and your family as you rise above the waves of fear and walk on the water of solid emotional and spiritual faith.

Loss and mourning are two obstacles to face and endure after a loved one dies. That might be a spouse, child, or family member. Or a close friend or neighbor, someone at church or even a personal role model. For example, when famous actor like Paul Newman died, many people who loved his example of a faithful marriage, his salad dressing, his famous roles movies like The Sting, and his good humor were shocked and numb. Death hits harder when the people are closest to us. Why do sympathy poems help after the death of a loved one?

Bereavement poems are a form of sympathy prayers that remember your loved one's life, with the hope of eternal life that follows. An effective bereavement poem contains several words of condolence and sympathy sayings, and even sympathy prayers.

The key words of a grief poem are expressions of hope. The virtue of hope looks forward to something new, something better in life, a transformation of even life after death. For example, in the Christian religion, disciples of Jesus Christ believe in the resurrection and new life with God that follows death. In many religions, hope is a gift that points toward eternity - a lasting union and friendship with a Supreme Being.

The symbol of hope in the Christian religion is an anchor, that holds a boat steady during a storm. The rope that holds the anchor to a ship during a stormy time of life relies upon being cast into a sea bottom of faith and love. That rope is a life line to hang on to, when the hurricanes of life come blowing through. The fact is that death happens to every person.

A bereavement poem that contains a prayer of hope and words of consolation brings peace to your mind and calm to your heart. All you need to do is to find a simple sympathy poem that is easy to say and includes the names of your deceased loved ones.

Discover a bereavement poem and prayer that you can customize to include the names of your deceased loved ones. Visit http://www.my3strands.com today.

Do You Actually Get to Go to Heaven - Christian Thinking

Figure Out What You Want In Life
Goal Setting For Success

Being A North Korean - What's It Like?

So what's it like being a North Korean Christian? Who really knows, but since you asked, and since the Word tells me to remember prisoners as though I were bound with them, it's probably important to try to understand what they are experiencing.

Let's see, to be a North Korean Christian must mean to eat a lot less. Could I do that? Yes, fasting is a command and an opportunity to relate to the suffering church. I could skip a meal now and then. Or cut out a meal altogether. Who says I need three a day to survive?

North Korean Christians probably walk a lot. Hmmm. No wheels? Could I find ways to walk more? What if I were the one on the trail each day that the wheeled people were always saying "on your left" to? What if it were me that the cars were coming around and blasting away with their nasty horns? Yeah, I could do that. Could lose some weight in the process. Get back to nature. Live simply.

Believers over there don't go to church to "be" someone, or to watch videos, or to talk with their friends about the latest sports outcomes. They don't go to see a performance or to gossip about so-and-so. Their attendance is not casual. If they go, the meeting is in secret, and it is understood that it could end in jail or worse. They go to hear from God, regardless of the cost. Now how in the world can I relate to that? Well, I could take my church attendance more seriously. I could stop criticizing. I could lead a holy life that makes church necessary and not optional. I could develop a love for Jesus in my prayer life that would spill over to my church life.

Being a North Korean believer means no television to speak of. No constant distraction and temptation to look at what the world is doing , and try to be like it. Hmmm, not a bad idea. Could I get rid of my habit? My TV? At least one of the 5 hangin' around my house? Maybe I could trash all but one, and use it only for news? Or could I use my radio & computer for news, and pitch all the TV's? Am I too far advanced in my addiction to try any of this? Then how will I ever relate to a North Korean believer and have anything better to offer him?

In truth, some of the above things I have already done. I desire to do all of them and more. But even then it will not let me fully understand what it means to be a North Korean Christian. When the persecution comes here, then I will know.

I've said it before. We need North Korea more than they need us. As you read through the items above, doesn't it strike you that the life they are living is very close to the life prescribed in the Word? If I in my liberty have chosen not to live as they must live in their restriction, I must ask why? What's wrong with less food, no TV, lots of walking and vital church services? What's wrong with me and my culture?

Sorry. My answer to your question turns into another question.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

You Have To Start Somewhere

The Religious Background of Unicorn Tapestries

The unicorn has been a mythical symbol since ancient times. Some of the earliest depictions of the unicorn are from ancient China and featured a creature resembling a large horse with a single horn protruding from its forehead. The writings and drawings of many ancient cultures throughout Asia and Europe included unicorns and eventually they evolved into religious symbols.

By the middle ages, the unicorn was considered both a religious and secular symbol by most of Christian Europe. The unicorn represented chastity, holiness, and purity, and was even used as a symbol for Christ. Because of the unicorn's important symbolism, it was often featured in tapestries and other art of the period. There are even references to unicorns in the bible, although some historians question their inclusion in the Bible because of translations issues. References to unicorns can be seen in Deuteronomy 33:17, Psalm 22:21, 29:6 and 92:10; Numbers 23:22 and 24:8; and Isaiah 34:7. These passages do not infer that the references to unicorns are fictitious or that unicorns are not in fact real animals.

There are many examples of medieval art and tapestries that feature unicorns and once they were accepted as a religious symbol they became very popular subjects. Unicorns represented purity and the myth perpetuated by their holy meaning was that only a virgin could tame a unicorn. Tapestries were common among the aristocracy in the Middle ages and were used as decoration as well as insulation for windows and openings. The most common tapestry designs were biblical allegories including unicorns. One of the most famous sets of tapestries are the Lady and the Unicorn tapestries, Created in France in the late 1400's.

The Lady and the Unicorn tapestries are perhaps the most famous examples of unicorns in art in the entire world. They were not discovered until late in the 1800's by Proper Merimee in a castle in Boussac France. They were damaged but were later restored and then put on display in the Cluny Museum in France in a room specially designed to house them. The novelist Georges Sands was responsible for making them so popular and included them in her writings.

It is not known who designed and wove the Lady and the Unicorn tapestries, but historians do know who they were created for. The coat of arms on the tapestries belongs to the Le Viste family and the tapestries were probably created for this family in the late 1400's. Like other tapestries and art depicting unicorns, the Lady and the Unicorn tapestries are said to represent the human senses with the subject of the tapestries a virginal maiden and a unicorn. Five of the six tapestries represent the five senses, hearing, tough, taste, feeling, and sight. The sixth tapestry is one that carries some debate as some say it represent love, other think it stands for the "6th sense" while other think it represents understanding or empathy. Unicorns have long been a part of art and folk lore, and are still symbols of holiness and purity today.

http://www.touchoftapestry.com/servlet/StoreFront

Bill Bryson

Hymn Of The Cherubim Movie Video

I love the chants from the Byzantine Chant and other Religions

Peaceful Warrior God

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a christian Ideas library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world.

Benefits Of A Bad Childhood
Governments Through History

Understanding Bible Prophecies From The Old Testament

With so many things going on in this world today, we feel that
the Bible has no connections at all in present time. This
article will explain, and reveal to you that the Bible The Word
Of The Living God, has more to do with our time, more than ever
before. In the first three chapters of Genesis, it shows how
Adam and Eve, were taken out of the Garden due to sin, and taken
away from the Holy presence of God. The good news is that the
book of Revelation has the keys that will unlock Heavens gates,
and enter us Back into paradise, where we will be able to live
with Jesus the Son of God, and the King of Kings Forever, and
Ever!

However, a lot of us today do not understand the book of
Revelations, and we then translate it into our own
interpretation. 2 Peter 1:20 clearly says that "Knowing this
first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private
interpretation."

So if it is not of private interpretation then how can I as an
individual understand Bible Prophecy?
1. Before Opening The Bible always say a word of prayer, and ask
the Lord to provide you with wisdom, and understanding.
In James 1:5 it says that "If any of you lack wisdom, let him
ask of God, and it shall be given him." So how do you know that you
will be given the wisdom that you have prayed for? Numbers 23:19
says that "God is not a man, that he should lie."
2. Search the Scriptures. "Search the scriptures; for in them ye
think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of
me." John 5:39 In this scripture Jesus admonishes us to search
the scriptures because the scriptures testify of Him Jesus
Christ, the Lamb of God. The one that has died for our sins.

To understand the Prophecies of Revelation. We must first have
a background. To obtain that background we must have a
knowledge of the Old Testament. There are a lot of people that
says that the Old Testament has nothing to do with the New
Testament. If you do not understand the Old Testament then you
will never understand the New. There are 404 verses found in
the book Of Revelation. Out of the 404 verses of the book, 278
verses refer to other stories, and prophecies in the Old
Testament. The Old Testament is a platform for the first coming
of Jesus. It sets the stage, and gives us examples of things
that would happen to Jesus when He comes, in the New Testament.

In the Old Testament we will review two stories, and then refer
to them in the New Testament, and how they related to the Life
of Jesus.

First we will review the story of Joseph. Joseph was one of 12
brothers. (Gen. 37:9 & Gen. 42:13) Joseph had his robe taken
away from him, he was placed into a pit by his brothers where he did
not have any food or water. Joseph was then sold for the price
of slave.(Gen. 37:28) After he was sold, his brothers took his
coat, and dipped it into blood.(Gen. 37:32) Even though Joseph
went through this ordeal he still came out alive. What Joseph,
and his brothers did not know was that God had a greater plan in
store for them. God later used Joseph to save his family during the
time of famine in the land of Egypt.

Now we will review the Life of Jesus, in the New Testament, and
see how it relates to the story of Joseph in the Old Testament.

Jesus had 12 disciples. (Matt. 11:1) Judas sold Jesus
for the price of a slave, or 30 pieces of silver. (Matt. 27:3)
Once Jesus was in the hands of the Chief Priests and Pilate, He
was beaten and his clothes were taken away from him, which was
splattered with his own blood. (Matt. 27:31) Before Jesus died
he prayed for those who crucified him, and said "Father Forgive
them for they no not what they have done." (Luke 23:32)
God too had a plan for Jesus. He came to save the world
From sin.

Here in these two stories you will see that the prophecy was
predicted in the life Of Joseph, and was fulfilled in the life
Of Jesus Christ.

Some similarities that are found here are:

1. Both Joseph, and Jesus were sold as a slave.

2. Both, had their garments taken away from them.

3. Both forgave those who had sinned against them.

The Second Story that we will review is of Abraham, and Isaac.
Isaac was a special child because Abraham's wife Sarah could not
have children, and in their old age God Blessed Abraham, and Sarah
with a son, Isaac. (Gen. 21:3) God, testing Abrahams faith, and
told him to sacrifice his only son on the alter, as a burnt
offering. (Gen. 22:2) Isaac, then carried the wood on his back
for the alter. (Gen. 22:6) When they reached the mountain that
the Lord had specified, Abraham, then made an alter, and tied
Isaac to it. When he was ready to slay his son, he heard a
Angels voice from heaven saying "Abraham, Abraham Do not lay a
hand upon that lad, and do not do anything to him. (Gen.22: 9 -
12) With thanksgiving, and praise, Abraham, lifted his eyes,
and saw a ram caught in a thicket by his horns. Abraham took
the ram, and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his
son. (Gen. 22:13)

Now we will compare the story of Abraham, and Isaac to the Story
of Jesus, and God the Father. As Isaac had to carry the wood to
the alter, so did Jesus carry wood, He carried the Cross.
When Jesus died, he had a crown of thorns upon his head. (Matt.
27:29)

This story of Abraham, and Isaac is one of Importance. God knew
that one day He too have to offer his Son as a sacrifice, a
ransom, to pay for the price of sin. "For God so loved the
world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever
believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 I cannot even begin to imagine the pain that God the
Father felt for his son dying on the cross. "But all this was
done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled."
Matt. 26:56

All I can say is what a loving God we serve! He looked beyond
All selfishness, and gave his only son for the sins of mankind.

So as you can see here with the two examples, I have given, a
knowledge of the Old Testament is needed to open the stories or
keys of the New Testament. If you are trying to understand
Bible Prophecy then you will need to have a background.

I Pray that everyone that reads this article will be Blessed in
the Name of Jesus!

Remember That God Loves You, And So Do I!

Let Everything That Has Breath Praise The Lord!
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Keisha Seaton is the owner of My Articles Directory

If The Greeks Were Wrong

Physical and the Non-Physical Consciousness

The junction point between different states of consciousness; i.e. waking and sleeping is a good time to notice this experience.

As your mind and body start to settle down to rest. You become aware of the more subtle nature of the body, mind and aura. For me this experience is one of first scanning my body and my feelings and becoming aware of my deeper connection.

If I become aware of any discomfort in the body, I take my attention into that region and consciously breathe, relaxing the physical body and clearing the mind of any associated thoughts.

As you continue with this process, you may become aware of a third level of awareness; a field of energy that both surrounds and permeates the mind and the body. I say field, as it is a kind of electromagnetic field of energy, similar to magnetism.

This field of energy is the aura, the energy field of the body, it has consciousness too and you may notice your awareness passing from the physical body to the non-physical aura as you settle down to sleep.

Sometimes I experience this like clouds of white light washing over the body and passing through the body. As you take your awareness from your physical body and step over and become aware on your feelings as being within the clouds of white mist of the aura. You notice a freeing of your awareness an expansion and raising slightly of ones vibration.

The human body is such a wonderful thing as we can experience it on many levels and see the connections into may different aspects or dimensions of its nature.

As we become aware of this non-physical connection to our higher Self we may also become aware of its nature. We could invite in our guides and angels to come around us. We could take a few minutes just appreciating the work they do for us.

We could start to ask them for guidance or plan what we would like to do or experience tomorrow. This is a magical time, as we start to drift off into sleep, and if you witness your sleep, you may even have the experience of your spiritual awareness going out of body and astral travelling through the Universe.

This is all apart of your higher Self, the clouds of white light that you feel, is your spiritual connection into the non-physical world. This non-physical, although it is not localised like your body, is still as much apart of who you are as the physical nature of your body, in fact I would say is more your true nature.

So next time you are going to sleep, just in an innocent way, stay a little more aware of your feelings and experiences and consciously enjoy being aware of the many aspects of who and what you are.

Message channelled by George Lockett (C) Copyright 2006, All Rights Reserved.

* New book * "A Journey into the Self -- the multi-dimensional nature of being human": HealerGeorge Web Site and New Book

Description: What is this book going to do for YOU? For those who are seeking a complete energetic makeover, as you read it you will feel a stirring and awakening in the depths of your heart. For those who have questions about Shifts in Consciousness, Energy Balancing and Healing within the body, you will find clear answers.

Read HealerGeorges Blog: Curezone Blog or ask at question at: Ask HealerGeorge

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Rapture Or Second Coming? A Seventh Distinction Refuted

Some very well-meaning and well-studied brethren have come to the conclusion that there is a distinction between the rapture and the second coming. One tactic they use is the implication that if Antichrist must come first (and Christ does not come until the second coming years later), it is not proper to have people looking for that "blessed hope" as in Titus 2:13 and Hebrews 9:28. If we know that Antichrist must come first, the thought goes, how can we be excited about looking for Jesus? I believe it's a fair question, yet I also believe there is a sound answer in Scripture.

Let's look at brother Peter's words in II Peter 3, as he speaks so forcefully of the coming of the day of the Lord. In the terminology of this discussion, I think it would be conceded that here is being discussed the final coming of Jesus. Peter here is looking toward the ultimate judgment and destruction of our earth, and he tells his people to live holy, knowing that these things are coming. Nevertheless, he exults in the fact that there will be a new heaven and a new earth once the destructive acts are past. Here is an example of one event that comes last outshining events that must come first. Peter's readers had no less anticipation for the new world simply because the old world must be burned up to get to it.

And I ask you, why can we not look for both Antichrist and Christ at the same time? A child whose father has been long in the military is promised: in 2 weeks Daddy will be home! But in one week, the same child has a dentist's appointment. There's no way to get to Dad's coming without that painful time in between. Even knowing of the discomfort of the Dentist's chair, the boy's heart is filled only with the bright prospects of Daddy's return. There is no contradiction here.

Trouble is coming to the planet. Incredible trouble. But we look for the Solution, Who will come in the Person of Jesus. He will lead us through the trouble to Himself. We don't know exactly when He will come, but He will come and deliver us! Why, even those whom God knew would have no connection to the end time are told to watch! (Mark 13:37). Why tell us all to watch when God the Father knows Jesus is not

coming until that certain Day?

Oh how excited many have been through the years about the possible appearing of Jesus. But all of them died. The odds are that all of us living today will also face death before we see Jesus coming in glory to the planet. Are we then "looking for death" simply because He may not come in our "life time"? No, all of us continue to look for Jesus' appearing, whether on this side of the grave or the other, whether on this side of Antichrist or the other. It is Jesus who is the center of all the church's attention.

Am I looking for Antichrist? Yes, I believe he shall precede Jesus, but I am looking for Jesus! Will I die before He comes? Quite possibly, but still I look for Jesus! We who are told to watch, knowing that some negative thing may indeed stand in the way, but we still watch. Watching is an attitude of the heart. It's the prayer mindset of a true believer. It's not a fearful Damocles' sword hanging over us, it's an awareness of hope. No matter how bad things get, whether we must suffer or die or watch Antichrist rise, whether the world goes crazy or nature fails, we still have the blessed hope that Jesus will come and set all in order.

So once again we see that there really is no distinction needed between the rapture and the second coming of Christ. One huge event at the end of all things.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. Just about every day I'm writing a blog featuring some news, a book, or a story of North Korea. There's a live news feed on the site, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together!

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond on my site.

Hope In Religion

Following Old Religious Text - Religion

Most people tend to bury their head in the sand when it comes to problems with their family, community, job, government and of course religious beliefs. They don't want to hear the truth and often they can't see the truth. I have read many religious text, books and other literature, missing some very important parts and only when I reread the information, did I find what I have missed. Sometimes I have needed to read or listen to the same information over 30 times, before it becomes somewhat clear to me.

Most religions are living in the dark ages. From what I gather, Hinduism is over 4000 years old, Judaism is around 2500 years old, Christianity is 2000 years old and Islam is about 1400 years old. People are following information today that isn't necessarily applicable to modern times but often religious leaders can twist it around, add some verbiage, make a semi-educated judgment and now we have something we can follow. It just doesn't make sense.

Why do we put so much faith in religious books like the Bible, Torah, Bhagavad-Gita and Quran, when these books cannot be proven and often have many mistakes and errors. I know people that open these books very carefully and treat them like they are made from solid gold. They are books like any others but often people live their lives from the information inside, strictly and religiously. Often never straying from their beliefs, even though they're outdated and hard to follow.

Let me get to the bottom line here, have you researched your religion and if you have, do you have any questions that can't be answered? Do you read any of the religious text and often wonder or think to yourself, this doesn't seem to make sense, because you just read something else that was contradicting the last statement.

You can handle the truth about your religion. By reading this article, it tells me that you're on the Internet, can you go to a search engine and type in Bible contradictions, Torah contradictions, or whatever your beliefs are. I was searching for errors in the Bible and came upon a couple of pretty good web sites.

Use words like contradiction, problems, errors and see what websites you come up with.

Seek the wisdom and the truth shall set you free.

Hope in Religion

You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a self help library filled with great subjects on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

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The Heretic's Daughter - Religion, Fear and the Salem Witch Trials

The Heretic's Daughter is author Kathleen Kent's first novel, and it is a stunning debut. It takes place in and around Salem, Massachusetts during the 1690's, before and during the infamous Salem witch trials. The narrator's mother, Martha Carrier, is based on the real woman of the same name, who was one of the first woman to be tried and hung in the trials. Ms. Kent is herself a tenth generation descendant of Martha Carrier.

Ms. Kent has done her research, and she does a beautiful job of depicting the harsh realities of life during this time. While the initial Puritan settlers had come to this land to escape persecution, and hoped to found a new religious community, they were besieged by plagues, crop failures, and attacks by indigenous tribes. The child mortality rate was so high, we are told in the first pages, "that some families did not name their child until the child was past twelve months and more likely to live. And in many households if a baby died, that same baby's name would be passed on to the next born. And to the very next if that babe died as well."

This is from the novel's narrator, Sarah Carrier, Martha Carrier's daughter. If Sarah sometimes seems distant and unfeeling as she describes horrific events, it is no wonder, based on the climate in which she was raised. In fact, Sarah's voice and attitude was at first a put-off to me, making her difficult to relate to or feel for. But as the novel progresses, her voice becomes one of the book's greatest strengths, because it provides such a vast contrast to our emotion-laden, Oprah-fueled times. Sarah helps us to see what a stark and difficult existence does to people, and as she does mature - through watching her mother's trial and surviving her own incarceration - her growth and new-found wisdom is that much more evident.

As the novel begins, Sarah and her family are on their way to live with her grandmother, and, unbeknown to them, are bringing smallpox with them to their new community. This fact, along with Martha Carrier's headstrong and outspoken nature, will ultimately lead to the family becoming a target when the terrible accusations begin. Those accusations, as presented in The Heretic's Daughter, gain traction in the community because of the lethal combination of fear and damnation-based religion. The community, facing so many challenges to its existence, cannot fathom why they are being targeted by God for such wrath. Surely there must be some offense, some sin, that they are being punished for? In their desperation, they seek out the 'sinners' amongst them, literally demonizing their own neighbors for the smallest of offenses. They seek to scapegoat and purge - as so many have done in the name of religion throughout history.

From there, the paralysis of fear takes over, with each new charge silencing more people within the community, all seeking to protect their own lives and families. Children as young as four are taken into custody - since the 'devil' is behind it all, and can take over anyone's mind, no one is considered innocent. Quite the contrary, during the trials the defendants are most definitely considered guilty until proven innocent. And their innocence is in the hands of several hysterical, adolescent girls no less (I'll let you read the book to learn more about this.)

One of the most touching aspects of the book is how Martha gets Sarah to save herself, helping Sarah to realize that behind her mother's stern exterior lies the greatest of maternal loves. While Sarah at first despises her mother's difficult personality, wishing she would just capitulate to others, she comes to realize her mother's seeming obstinance is actually born of tremendous faith and wisdom. This is exactly the opposite of what her community elders teach - that strict obedience is the foundation for faith. As Sarah observes, that obedience, along with fear, is what allows the madness to continue for so long.

And so The Heretic's Daughter works on at least three levels. First, as a gripping historical novel that masterfully depicts a certain setting and time period. Second, as a personal story of a mother and adolescent daughter struggling to understand each other. And third, as a cautionary tale about how religion can be twisted when a society is ruled by fear.

Lisa Erickson is a mom, meditation teacher, and writer. Visit her blog http://www.MommyMystic.wordpress.com for spiritual book reviews and information on meditation and spirituality

Jonathan Manske

Set Free From The Smoking Habit!

Much to my shame, my little 12-year-old self began to assert itself in some sad ways. For one thing, I wanted to be like the guys around me at school. And it was the in thing even way back then to have a go at smoking.

I had no real desire to smoke. It seemed nasty enough filling your lungs with gaseous poisons just for the fun of blowing them out into the atmosphere. But the other guys were doing it. Bobby had to try.

My dad smoked. A lot. But both he and my mom, though neither of them were active believers, made it clear to me that I was not to be a part of what the crowd was doing, even if that crowd included my father. They went to some extremes with this protectionism, mainly out of fear, but I can still be grateful for the things they spared me.

I had heard the conventional wisdom and humor about smoking. "Fire on one end, fool on the other." "You don't smoke, it's the cigarette that smokes, you're just the sucker." "A guy starts smoking to prove he's a man, and 20 years later he tries to quit to prove the same thing."

All nice sound bytes, but I wanted to keep up with the Jones's at my school. So one day I brought some smokes into my bathroom with me. I can't remember now how I got them, probably a friend trying to convert me. I sat on the chair provided in such rooms, and proceeded to light up. I was just sucking in the gross air when I heard the front door open, and my dad's voice.

What was he doing home? I had calculated this thing all wrong. I quickly, and with relief, dropped the cigarette in the toilet and gave it a flush.

Two things I hadn't counted on in my young life of crime. Smoke odor doesn't leave a small enclosed room too quickly. And water pressure in a toilet is not always strong enough to push an item like a cigarette to its intended destiny.

My father used the bathroom next. And my readers will just have to imagine from here exactly what happened. There was no unnecessary violence. Let's just say a firm hand prevailed. I have not so much as looked at a cigarette longingly from that day until the present.

How I thank God for it.

http://chosunhouse.com is a website I put together a few months back to get the word out to believers that they need to pray for North Korea. I have created over 200 blogs and the site features a live news feed, lists of resources, picture essays, and ways to respond to the overwhelming need in North Korea. Let's love Chosun together! Contact me any time at diakonos5@yahoo.com

And who am I? A man found of God over 50 years ago, called to the ministry, serving the Lord as needed in my world. Married, member of a local church in the Chicago area, with full time work in public education. I love to write Scriptural works. Who are you? Would love to fellowship with believers who respond.

Education Leads To Success

Book Review - Mixed - My Life in Black and White

"I hate covert racism. I always hated guessing whether someone is being mean/rude/nervous because they hate my race or because they are having a bad day. As I got older, I noticed that covert racism is like depression: You know it when you feel it, but it's hard to explain to someone who has never experienced it. It's like a sixth sense that God has given people of color that white people don't believe in. We just know."

In her memoir "Mixed: My Life in Black and White" (2006), Angela Nissel writes of the struggles she faces while growing up biracial. Nissel's name may be familiar to fans of the NBC comedy series "Scrubs." She has been a staff writer for the show for four years and is now consulting producer. As a starving artist (a.k.a. freelance writer), Nissel sold some goods on eBay for extra cash. The winning bidder for one of those items was a television executive who had read her first book "The Broke Diaries" (2001), which was about her days as a broke college student. The eBay winner introduced Nissel to a television literary agent who sent copies of "The Broke Diaries" to shows hiring comedy writers. Nissel had numerous job offers, but chose "Scrubs."

Her knack for sarcastic, quick-witted humor that is a driving force in "Scrubs" is what makes "Mixed" a must read. When Nissel is in the fourth grade, two of her classmates, Jimmy and Michael, call her a zebra. (That isn't the humorous part.) Nissel's father finds out and goes to the boys' houses with Angela. Jimmy's parents scold their son. However, Michael's father slams the door in Angela's father's face. That father's dog has been using the Nissels' yard as a bathroom, so Angela's father concocts a hilarious scheme involving an Ex-Lax pill. Angela asks her father whether the Ex-Lax will hurt the dog. "'No, just Michael's father's carpets,'" her dad replies.

Later, though, Angela discovers that her father has been cheating on her mother, but even this situation is steeped in humor. "I already knew my parents were having problems and she suspected my father of cheating. (Note to parents: Trying to have cryptic conversations by spelling words out no longer works once your child is reading.) Then later, "Ever since the first argument about my father c-h-e-a-t-i-n-g with w-h-o-r-e-s, my mother had started working a lot...."

The thing about this book is that the comedic moments are also sad ones. And this is Nissel's strength: She makes you laugh, but she also makes you think. Comments from people about her looks teach her that there is "good" hair and an "ugly" nose. The features people consider pretty are from her white father.

She went to all-black schools, all-white schools, public, private, schools associated with different religions-yet she never fit in. She was never white enough or black enough, so she was the target of merciless teasing. "Being a mixed child, you get used to people staring at you," she writes. She immediately follows with humor: "I learned that rolling my eyes or sticking out my tongue was the quickest way to get people to avert their gazes." She learns that being biracial is no easier in the dating world. She notices that of six black male coworkers at a production company, "five had white wives and one was dating an Asian girl."

The book is filled with Nissel's struggles, but she doesn't want you to feel sorry for her; she is explaining how her experiences (good or bad) made her who she is. She makes you care about the people in her life, particularly her mother, who let her daughter change schools and religions-almost as often as she changed her clothes-in an attempt to find herself. Nissel doesn't censor herself-or anyone else-which makes for brilliant dialogue and unapologetic honesty.

http://www.whitneybrennan.info

Kathleen Brehony