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TRUMP CHRONICLES PART 03:

Trump the Christian: Opposition & Prophecy

I believe in God. I am Christian. I think The Bible is certainly, it is THE book. First Presbyterian Church in Jamaica Queens is where I went to church. I’m a Protestant, I’m a Presbyterian. And you know I’ve had a good relationship with the church over the years. I think religion is a wonderful thing. I think my religion is a wonderful religion
These words were uttered by the man who became the 45th President of the United States. Donald J. Trump has affirmed that he is a Christian.
Of course, there are Christians and there are Christians. In the United States, where for decades Christianity has been the ‘civil religion,’ everyone was a Christian. For example, every American President (and there have been 45) has called themselves ‘Christians.’ And, for the last 40 years, every President from Jimmy Carter onwards claimed to be ‘born again,’ too.
It would seem that Donald Trump could be in the first category. Many would think so. ‘Christian’ in name, but clearly no saint: multiple marriages, hints of past infidelity, an owner of casinos, and crude language on a 2005 tape. Those who suspect his Christian ties see him as an ‘abrasive New Yorker,’ a ‘street-fighter in a suit,’ this ‘reality TV personality.’ His prompt response to his critics are not exactly tempered by the fruit of the Spirit.
PROPHECIES OF THE PRESIDENCY
Despite all this, there is more to Donald Trump than meets the eye. While seemingly worldly in some areas, he is wholesome in others: no tobacco, alcohol, and a strong commitment to family life, as demonstrated by his ultra-loyal and loving children and grandchildren.
Amazingly, some prophecies have been offered regarding the ‘rise of Trump.’ One came from Kim Clements, Redding California, in April 2007. In his prophecy Clements said things like ‘Trump will be a trumpet.’ Though not known to be a ‘praying man’ before becoming President, he will become one in office. There will be ‘a wall of protection’ and Clements spoke about ‘two terms,’ meaning 8 years in office. The implication is, of course, that Trump will be re-elected in the 2020 US Presidential election (who wants to think about the next election after the combative and bruising nature of the last one?).
Another prophecy came from retired fire-fighter Mark Taylor in 2011. While watching Trump on television, he heard the voice of God tell him that he was listening to the ‘President.’ From here the prophecy spoke about God’s Spirit declaring that ‘the enemy’ (presumably Satan and demon powers) will quake, shake, and fear from this ‘man who God anointed.’
Donald Trump ‘anointed?’ Before jumping to conclusions, remember that the prophet Isaiah declared the same thing over Cyrus the Great of Medo-Persia (Isaiah 45:1). Cyrus was not a known believer but he was clearly used of God to fulfil his prophetic purposes.
Regarding the enemy fearing quaking, shaking in fear, consider this: The unprecedented media attacks, the opposition and hysteria after Trump’s election, the violent ‘protests,’ which were riots, recounts, death threats to members of the electoral college, regular death threats to Trump himself, ’the Russians,’ the inaugural protests and women’s march and … Donald Trump has poked the stick in the hornets nest and they are hopping mad.
According to Charisma News, political analyst Pat Caddell says, comments on the mainstream media vis a vis Trump: ’This is the crisis of democracy – the mainstream media, which is in the tank in the most violent way against Donald Trump and for Hillary Clinton, that I have ever seen in the 45 years that I have been at the top of presidential politics … And it is terrifying … Not just that they’re for Hillary, and telling us that Trump is evil, and my God, no human being could possible vote for him; it is what they are omitting, the facts that they will not tell the American people.’[1]
One man commented that Trump was a ‘wrecking ball’ to political correctness (PC). Anyone familiar with PC knows it is public enemy number one to ‘freedom of speech’ and, in its extreme, can be dangerous to the future of the nation. Political correctness also causes good people, even Christian people, to wince when the plain truth is uttered. This is because PC is an enemy of the truth. When politicians were afraid to even mention the word ‘borders’ for fear of being labelled ‘intolerant’ and ‘bigots’ and ‘xenophobes’ and ‘islamophobes,’ that’s the crippling effects of political correctness at work.
Then here comes Donald Trump … we are going to have a wall with Mexico and practice extreme vetting of would-be migrants. He will not be bullied by PC and keeps rolling on like an invincible tank.
When you consider the unprecedented, furious and ferocious opposition Trump, it is not unreasonable to consider that this opposition is ultimately spiritual.
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
In our next article, we will learn about Trump’s relationship with evangelical Christians and whether their support made a difference to his winning the election.

Articles, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

RECIPE: Meat & Vegetable Stir-Fry

If time is short and you want a tasty, nourishing meal, look no further. Here is a real winner. Also, if you have a glut of vegetables at home, here is a great way to use them up.
One part meat: Beef, chicken, or pork. Cube or cut into bite-sized pieces.
Two parts vegetable: cut into bite-sized pieces (see ‘Vegetables’ below)
1 Tablespoon ginger, garlic, shallots (optional)
2 Tablespoons chopped fresh herbs like coriander or basil.
Vegetables
Chose vegetables in both categories below.
Category 01: Onions, Baby Corn, Snow Peas, Snap Peas, Mushrooms, Celery, Zucchini, Bok Choy. These cook very quickly so watch out.
Category 02: Carrots, Cauliflower Capsicum (bell peppers), Broccoli, Green Beans. These take more time to cook due to their denseness. They have a great ‘crunch.’
Sauce for Stir-fry
2 Tablespoons soy sauce
1 Tablespoon sugar
1 Tablespoon vinegar, preferably rice wine
1 cup broth
Put all ingredients in a bowl and then whisk together until fully blended. For thicker sauce, add 1 teaspoon of corn starch, whisk until blended, and let sit for 10 minutes before mixing with the stir fry.
Cooking Instructions
1.      Have all your ingredients chopped and ready to go before you start cooking, because once you begin the stir-fry, it will go quickly. Make sure your rice or noodles are also cooked before frying. Everything should be cut and prepared to a similar size to ensure uniform cooking.
2.      Take your wok or frying pan and set it over medium to high heat. Once hot, then add 1 Tablespoon of oil (peanut or coconut) for a non-stick pan or 2 Tablespoons for a regular pan. Do not begin to cook until the pan is hot and the oil sizzling.
3.      Once heated, add your meat of choice and cook thoroughly on all sides. Remove the cooked meat and place to the side. Do not stir the entire time; give opportunity for ‘frying’ and then ‘stirring,’ so the meat and vegetables are sufficiently cooked.
4.      Add your Category 02 vegetables next. These take longer to cook. Only fry for 1 minute. If you have too many, then fry them in batches. Don’t overcook or the vegetables will lose their wonderful texture, crunch, and colour.
5.      Add your Category 01 vegetables, which cook more quickly than Category 02, and fry 1 more minute.
6.      Add ginger, garlic, and/or shallots, if you are using at all. Cook no more than half a minute and continuously stir to avoid burning.
7.      It is now time to return the meat to the pan. Add the above stir-fry sauce. Coat the vegetables and meat in sauce and make sure there is not excessive liquid at the bottom that can make the vegetables soggy. Cook until it bubbles, around 60-90 seconds.
8.      Remove from the heat and add fresh herbs.
9.      May be served with cooked noodles or rice (Jasmine or Basmati are great choices).
10.  Enjoy!

Articles, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

7 Pillars To Understanding the Future: Pillar 02

Ephesians 6:11
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places — Ephesians 6:11-12 (KJV)
Why Do the Nations Rage?
On November 8th, 2016, Donald J. Trump was elected 45th President of the United States. Since then, there has been a flurry of protests – some ugly, others dangerously violent. There was the post-election ‘protests,’ which turned into a riot in Portland, Oregon. Voting recounts, ‘Russian hacking,’ intimidating electors of the electoral college, all have been thrown to try and invalidate the election. Then on inauguration day, the protestors promised to stop the inauguration. They failed – but that did not stop them from vandalising parts of the capital city. Then there were the ‘protests’ after President Trump signed an executive order halting refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries deemed terrorist haunts by the outgoing Obama Administration. Or the ultra-violent riots at the University of California – Berkeley, trying to stop Milo Yiannopoulos, a conservative, gay, British journalist, from speaking.
While protests are nothing new in the United States and are indeed a protected right (provided they are peaceful), why the frequency, stridency, and savagery? Most will agree that we have not seen anything like this. Dennis Prager calls this current turmoil the second American civil war.
This is not just limited to the United States. There is a low-level world war across North Africa and the western half of Asia, jihadists against other Muslims, minorities, and the West. Anti-Semitism is rearing its ugly head in Europe and the West. Anti-Christian persecution is at the highest levels we have seen in several generations.
While experts seek to offer explanations for the increasingly turbulent times in which we live, here is one you rarely hear, yet it explains everything.
The second pillar of understanding the future: we live in a spiritual world and the solutions are equally spiritual.
The Real Enemy
It is easy to blame sinful people and ideologies for all our challenges. Indeed, people need to take responsibility for their actions and will be held accountable by God for them (Romans 14:12). Yet, the Bible speaks clearly of a hidden spiritual hand that controls events and nations. Satan is described by Jesus Christ Himself as the ‘prince’ of this world (John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11) while Paul calls him the ‘god’ of this world (II Corinthians 4:4).
The New Testament Greek word for ‘world’ is kosmos, which in order, arrangement, and/or adornment; however, it also means the current state of human affairs which is at enmity and opposition to God. And who inspired this? The master rebel himself, Satan, and his host of demons. That’s why I John 5:19 (NKJV) says succinctly, ‘We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one.’ Satan and demon powers, who had such dominance in human history, are in a panic because their time is short (Revelation 12:12), and want to cause as much trouble and turmoil as possible on their way down.
When we understand the spiritual nature of our world, we will quit getting mad at people, despite their furious opposition, and focus our spiritual attention on the real culprits. The invisible spiritual forces are slated for destruction, Satan included, while the earthly opponents are loved of God and are targets for the gospel of grace.
An elderly Daniel discovered, to his amazement, that his prayers were being hindered by the the ‘Prince of Persia.’ The great Messianic psalm, Psalm 2, speaks about the raging of the nations and people becoming active yet senseless. The reason? Because the King is coming back. Satan and demon powers know they are fighting a losing battle but still want to do their utmost to thwart the return of the Prince of Peace.
The Wise Response
How should we respond? Understand that the Biblical Christian life, the one that God approves, is not a ‘religious life,’ riddled with ‘do’s and don’ts, rules and regulations, with a dour face and judgmental heart. No, the life God endorses is a spiritual Christian life. It starts with being:
1)           Born of the Spirit or born again: the new birth is when our spirit, the inner-person, is reborn. The Holy Spirit is the agent of change in this process;
2)           Baptised in the Spirit – something mentioned in all four gospels and fulfilled in the Book of Acts (1:6, 8). This is a permanent immersion where the presence of God’s Spirit is with us and in us;
3)           Filled with the Spirit (Acts 2:4; Ephesians 5:18): The presence of the Holy Spirit is so overwhelming that there is an overflow of anointing, empowerment, gifts (I Corinthians 12) and fruit (Galatians 5:22-23), and
4)           Walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16): This is a lifestyle of living a Spirit-filled, Spirit-anointed life. ‘Natural living’ is like living in the barnyard with the chickens: crowded, contentious, dirty, and no flight. ‘Spirit-filled living’ is like the eagle (Isaiah 40:31), it takes flight and hovers over the fray that holds others back.
The Solution is Equally Spiritual
With this Holy Spirit empowerment that comes from the born again, Spirit-filled lifestyle, we are in a great position to implement Ephesians 6, which exhorts us to put on the whole armour of God. Spiritual world means spiritual fight and God has provided us the weaponry we need to overcome and gain victory. Failure to understand the battle or implement the solution leaves us vulnerable to the wiles and desires of the devil.
The armoury God provides is impressive:
1.       The belt of truth around our waist: keeps everything in place;
2.       Breastplate of righteousness: protects the heart;
3.       Gospel of peace on the feet: puts us on the road;
4.       Shield of faith: quench all the fiery darts of the wicked;
5.       Helmet of salvation: protects the mind;
6.       Sword of the Spirit: The Word of God
The spiritual solution is to be ‘strong in the Lord’ (Ephesians 6:10), continue to stand (v. 11, 13, 14), withstand in the evil day (v. 13), pray all kinds of prayers in the Spirit (v. 18); watching with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

Lesson for Life:If you want to understand the future, know that this is a spiritual world; the challenges and solution are equally spiritual.
Articles, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

GOD’S PEACE PROCESS – PART 03

It is instructive, even frightening, how many people in the relatively peaceful and prosperous western world suffer from mental health issues. These include anxiety, excessive stress, and depression. Even those who claim to be believers and attend church are not exempted from these things. Of course, if the root cause of this malaise is spiritual, then the solution will be equally spiritually.
God offers a spiritual solution: it is peace – His peace – and available to any and all who will receive it. Once received, the mental health issues clear up, wholeness is gained, and joy returns. Like the ‘pearl of great price,’ God’s peace is worth everything to obtain and will not disappoint.
So far, we learned that the pre-requisite to peace is to recognise that it comes from Jesus. All the Lord asks is that before we receive peace, we make a decision to cooperate with His to refuse to let our heart be trouble or afraid (John 14:27).
The second thing we learned is to establish a beachhead of God’s peace, we have to be reconciled to God by the new birth. This comes by believing in the gospel of Christ: He died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day, according to the Scriptures. In other words, you can’t have God’s peace until you are willing to receive in your heart the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, as Saviour and Lord. When this happens, we are justified by faith (not by religious works) and have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
God offers a ‘peace process.’ Unlike the worldly version, which comes in instalments and can be incomplete and temporal at best, God’s peace comes freely, fully and permanently. We can and should grow in God’s peace, as we do in God’s grace, glory, and faith.
The next step is important. God’s peace can be likened to a personal body guard. Any force that would try to harm you or cause you to fret and worry can be thwarted. This protective, prevailing peace will guard your mind – which can be a battle field of negative, anxious though. It will guard your heart, from which flow the issues of life. Prevailing peace means that no challenge will go unmet and no challenge will succeed – God’s peace will prevail against any and all attacks. When you are peaceful in heart and mind, nothing can rock your boat.
How do we obtain God’s protective, prevailing peace? We learn about it in Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV):
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
So here is the secret to growing in the prevailing, protective peace of God: it comes through prayer. Like the air we breath, prayer is indispensable for Christian life and growth. Without a lifestyle of prayer, you will become weak like any other man. Great people of God have said: A prayer less Christian is a powerless Christian.
If you have the desire to be a person of prayer, but find it difficult to get started, here are two things you can do. 1) Read about prayer: in the Bible and also Christian literature. There are plenty of books on the subject. More importantly, 2) Find an ‘on-fire’ prayer meeting, attend it regularly, and remain a part of it until you catch the fire!
Even before you pray, or at least when you pray, make sure you follow the first part of the advice: Be careful for nothing. Make a decision that you will not worry or fret about anything. This will require God’s grace, of course, but hand the burden to God, let Him do all the heavy lifting, and then proceed to pray.
Note Philippians 4 speaks of prayer (a broad term about seeking God in faith and utterance), supplication (where we make our requests to God), and thanksgiving. The latter is essential because, like people, God responds very well to an ‘attitude of gratitude’ (I Thessalonians 5:18).
In summary, hand your burdens to God, pray all kinds of prayers, give thanks to God in everything.
Years ago I wonderfully learned this lesson. Flying from my first ever visit to the Middle East, the airline gave me an obligatory stop in London – at my expense. Twenty-two years old, with little money, having been informed that ‘London is expensive’ and ‘all the hotel rooms are full,’ I contemplated sleeping on the seats at Heathrow Airport. In fact, on the plane I started to feel distressed and anxious. Then I remember Philippians 4:6-7. I wanted to shout it from the housetops, but that would not be appropriate in flight. So I found the one place that would afford me privacy – the lavatory on the plane – and confessed to the LORD: Heavenly Father, I claim the promise of Philippians 4:6-7. When I walk out of this place, I thank you that I will experience your protective, prevailing peace on my heart and mind. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Without exaggeration, once I opened the door, the peace of God descended upon me. The worry and fear were gone. Once I arrived in London, everything fell into place, I found a clean, quaint, and affordable hotel room for the night and my money stretched far enough to get me a London Indian curry!

God may or may not give you an immediate answer to your prayer. Yet, what you will receive – on the spot – is God’s peace in your heart and mind. His word guarantees it. It’s time to grow in the peace of God – through prayer.
Articles, Bible, Education, Family, Prophecy, Teaching

Inheriting the Earth: The Power of Biblical Meekness PART TWO

In Part One we were introduced to the concept of Biblical meekness, which comes with the superlative promise: The meek shall inherit the earth (Psalm 37:11; Matthew 5:5). In essence, meekness is submission to God and His grace, letting Him carry us, fight our battles, and use us as He wills. The two meekest men in the Bible were Moses and Jesus, yet both of them were mightily used of God in acts of power.
The meek do not ‘fight for their rights,’ actively seek vengeance or vindication, strive in their own strength or live off man-made, home-cooked ‘good ideas.’ They live and labour according to God’s terms, timing, and territory. The meek simply keep single-minded and focused on what God has called them to do.
ISAAC: MEEKNESS IN ACTION
A classic example of this principle, and how to inherit the earth, is found in the patriarch Isaac in Genesis 26:16-22. God commanded Isaac to remain in Canaan, a land he was destined to inherit. Amazingly, this was during a time of intense famine. When food was scarce in Canaan, the natural response was to travel to nearby Egypt, where the Nile River and its alluvial rich overflow normally guaranteed a steady food supply.
Certainly, Isaac’s father Abraham, and son Jacob, did go to Egypt when famine hit in Canaan during their day. Yet when Isaac tried to make the same move, God intervened and told him to stay put. He would bless him in the land of promise, drought, famine, and all. Meekness meant trusting God and committing all to him.
Ever energetic, Isaac was busy sowing in the land and reaping 100-fold (Genesis 26:12). That was a miracle, considering that the Negev wilderness is dry, even in normal times, let alone in a season of dryness.
The neighbouring Philistines became jealous of his success and expelled him from the city of Gerar. It was most unfair, but Isaac decided not to fight for justice but to keep on labouring in his inheritance. God’s justice towards Isaac would outstripped any compensation this world can offer.
The patriarch began to dig wells or re-dig wells in the Negev, where his father Abraham had dug. Wells not only brought water but served as a stake to claim the land. At least twice the Philistines protested that the wells belong to them, even though Isaac was the one who dug them. He did not argue or stop fulfilling his call. He kept his powder dry, relinquished the wells to his opponents, and kept digging elsewhere. Isaac knew that the promise of God to inherit the land would come in God’s timing and God’s way.
Isaac’s meekness netted him a wonderful reprieve called Rehoboth (Genesis 26:22). Here was a ‘Philistine-free zone’ were there is room, water, fruitfulness, and no strife. Every believer needs to visit Rehoboth, periodically if not regularly.
What is remarkable is that Isaac’s spirit of meekness did not make him look weak, but strong. Eventually, his enemies met with him and sued for peace.
The reason was that the blessing of God appeared prominently on his life. Wherever his plough laboured, there was a bumper crop. Wherever his spade touch, a well of springing water resulted. When opposition hit, he glided over it like a stream over a stubborn rock. To fight such a God-blessed man like Isaac would mean to fight against God Himself.
Then he came across Beersheba, well of seven, which became the patriarchs winter capital. The land of Canaan was now within Isaac’s reach and he never had to fire a shot.
MEEKNESS FOR TODAY
Isaac’s exemplary conduct contradicts our current culture, which focuses on ‘rights,’ ‘entitlement,’ and ‘self-interest.’ The problem with this attitude is that as soon as you drop your spade (shovel) and pick up your boxing gloves to fight your enemy, they have already won. The reason is that you are no longer doing what God has called you to, but instead you are distracted by a battle that is best left with God. Often, these battles can be lengthy and tiresome. So even if you win the battle, you truly lose the war. Second, by taking up the fight yourself, you are not demonstrating the power of faith and trust whereby God can fight your battle and win your prize.
Except in rare situations, the Biblical meek don’t even bother responding to their opponents. The work of God is simply too great (remember Nehemiah: he did not want to stop building the walls of Jerusalem in order to debate his enemies).
The meek reserve their focus on one thing: doing God’s will. All the other issues they leave for God to sort out. Many take the lower road, which leads to the barnyard. It can be messy, battling with the chickens and other poultry who can’t even fly. Or, you can take the ‘higher way’ of Biblical meekness, where the eagles rule the skies. Those who choose this way travel faster, farther, and truly inherit the earth.
Meekness
A spirit of empowerment, not entitlement;
overcoming, not overcome;
inheritance, not infirmity;
grace, not greed;
victory, not victimhood.
By meekness you interface with
Almighty God Himself
So that when He inherits the earth (Psalm 24:1);

                                                  You inherit it with Him

Articles, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

Recipe for the month: Fried Cauliflower

This recipe has been a family favourite for years and its so easy to make. Sometimes it never makes it to the dinner table because people are eating it off the plate at the stove!
Ingredients:
1 head of cauliflower (or as much as you want)
Olive oil for frying (use whatever amount your comfortable with)
Lemon juice (to taste)
Garlic powder (to taste)
1.    Heat olive oil in the frying pan to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2.    Fry half of the cauliflower florets in the hot oil until they turn golden brown, about 8 minutes.
3. Drain on a paper towel, squeeze lemon juice over the warm florets and then sprinkle with garlic powder.
Repeat until all cauliflower is cooked.

Serve & enjoy
Articles, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

UNDERSTANDING THE FUTURE – PILLAR ONE: Prophecy is the Key

We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost — II Peter 1:19-21
Understanding the future is clearly a worthwhile goal. Yet where do we start? The logical is with the One who holds the future in His hand.
The God of heaven knows the future and desires to reveal it to His people. We call such revelation ‘Bible prophecy.’ As Peter says above, we have the ‘Word of Prophecy’ which is certain, sure and a light that shines in a dark place. In fact, prophecy is the brightest light we have on this planet until Jesus christ, the ‘light of the world’ (John 8:12) comes.
Bible prophecy is readily available in both Old and New Testaments. Not only is it found in the 17 prophetic books of the Old and 1 book in the New, but it is liberally sprinkled throughout much of the rest of the Bible. To learn prophecy is a rewarding life-time of study.
Benefits of Prophecy
While some people find prophecy confusing and others frightening, the truth is that it is neither. There are some wonderful benefits bestowed on the man or woman who takes the time to learn to wonderful subject.
Many are looking for the secrets of healthy living. Yet, it is time to proclaim that Bible prophecy is healthier for you than organic food, exercise, pure water and fresh air. Consider the following benefits:
1.       Early-warning service: A ‘heads up’ for the future (Amos 3:7 tells us that God will do nothing until He reveals it to His servants the prophets);
2.       Bright light: The light that shines in the darkness (II Peter 1:19);
3.       Comfort: Brings comfort to the believer. While so many think that prophesy is meant to scare the daylights out of you, the fact is the opposite. It comforts believers (I Thessalonians 5:11);
4.       Edification: Brings edification to the believer (I Thessalonians 5:11). Edification means to build people up. When you are built-up, you can withstand anything the devil or world throws at you;
5.       Establishment and prosperity (II chronicles 20:20): When you believe God and His prophets, you will be well grounded and optimally positioned to bear much fruit (Psalm 1:3; John 15:2-5);
6.       Evangelism: Prophecy spawns evangelism (II Timothy 4:1-5);
7.       Holiness: Prophecy is an incentive for holy living (II Peter 3:11-13);
8.       Affirms Christ and Scripture (II Peter 1:19-21).
 Are we in the last days? The simple answer is ‘Yes.’ I John 2:18 says we are in the ‘last hour.’ Hebrews 9:26 says that Christ was crucified ‘at the end of the world.’ If it was the ‘end of the world’ and ‘last hour’ in the time of the New Testament, it is even more so today.
Remember, the last days to which prophecy speaks is a time of transition. And where you have major transition, you also have turbulence. The kingdoms of this world are being shaken and phased out so that there is room for the unshakeable kingdom of God (Hebrews 12:25-29).
Since we live in a fallen world, where Satan is the god (2 Corinthians 4:4) and prince (John 12:31) of this world, he knows that his reign is short. He also knows that it is impossible to stop the coming of God’s kingdom. Despite all this, he will still try to cause as much trouble as he can. For this reason, in the fallen world in the last days, perilous times come (II Timothy 3:1).
Understanding: Knowing the nature of the problem will bring you halfway to the solution. How should we respond? By hearing and doing the words of Jesus! The Lord says that when you ‘hear and do,’ you are a wise person who builds his house on the rock. The inevitable rains, winds, and floods may be furious but you will be kept safe and intact because you are on the rock.
In light of the last days, wisdom decrees that we put the kingdom of God and spiritual life above all else (Matthew 6:33).
LESSON FOR LIFE: If you want to understand the future, know that prophecy is your first key.

Next month we will give you the second of seven pillars to understanding the future.
Articles, Bible, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

A Man After God’s Own Heart: Why Study Second (II) Samuel

If you want to learn about the 40 year reign of King David, II Samuel is the Bible book to study. After seeing this anointed, amazing man of integrity rise up to national prominence in I Samuel, here we see him take the throne of Israel. In some ways, he sets the stage for ‘Israel’s golden age’ where enemies are subdued, Jerusalem is captured and made capital, the Ark of God is brought to the royal city, and plans are made for a glorious temple.
Yet, the Bible gives a candid portrait of our hero: he transgresses the law of God, commits covetousness, theft, adultery, and murder, then pays for those sins for the rest of his life. Despite this colossal moral failure at the height of his success, David did what only the minority ever do: he repented. This, and his heart of worship, demonstrate that he continued to be a man after God’s own heart. II Samuel will help you to learn invaluable lessons of God’s interaction with His people and how to walk uprightly.
                                                                 HEBREW
The original name of the book comes from Samuel, or shmu’el.This can be translated ‘heard of God,’ ‘petitioned of God,’ or even ‘his name is God.’ Though it, along with II Samuel, were originally one account in Hebrew, in the 285 BC Greek language translation of the Hebrew Bible, known as the Septuagint (LXX), separates the two books.
AUTHOR
The consensus is that II Samuel is a compilation from the prophets Gad and Nathan. Apparently, there is some reference from the Book of Jasher (1:18). Written after death of Solomon but before the Assyrian captivity of 722 BC, there are hints of the rivalry between Judah and Israel. This rivalry erupts into a full-blown schism in I Kings 12. Lessons about obedience and blessing, disobedience and punishment, also are prominent themes in II Samuel.
PORTRAIT OF CHRIST
Jesus is the ‘root and offspring of David’ (Revelation 22:16), the heir to his throne who will reign forever. He is the ‘man after God’s own heart’ (I Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22), the faithful servant of God who rules from the throne first established by Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18), which is Jerusalem.
THEME OF II SAMUEL
II Samuel is the story of David’s 40 year reign. It begins with some great triumphs, like the elimination of the Ishbosheth threat, conquest of Jerusalem, subduing of the Philistines, alliance with Tyre, bringing the ark to Jerusalem, and receiving the Davidic covenant. 
However, after David became successful and careless, he sinned grievously. This began a period of tragedy, including the death of his faithful mighty man Uriah the Hittite, the death of his infant son by Bathsheba, the rape of his daughter Tamar, the murder of her treacherous half-brother Amnon, the rebellions of Absalom and Sheba, a famine because of the Gibeonites, and the dreadful plague after the foolish census.
The theme: Obedience to God (chapters 1-7) bring God’s blessing; however, sin (11) brings punishment (12-24). To whom much is given, much is required (Luke 12:48).
 KEY VERSES
And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom. 13He shall build an house for my name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever — II Samuel 7:12-13
The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness: according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me — II Samuel 22:21
DISTINCTIVES
•    The Davidic covenant (7; I Chronicles 11): This is one of the most important parts of the Bible. It is by this covenant that David is promised a son and heir who would reign from his throne forever. In addition, David son will be simultaneously God’s Son. This ‘Son of David is known as ‘the Messiah,’ the ‘anointed one.’ Of course, this Son is none other than Jesus of Nazareth. When He came the first time, He was crucified as ‘The King of the Jews.’ When He comes the second time, it will be to reign over the whole world from David’s throne in Jerusalem.
•   Sin of David: The Bible does not try to air-brush the faults of its heroes and David is no exception. His sin with Bathsheba and the subsequent trouble in his family serves as a warning to us all. Galatians 6:7 says Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. Let us remember that we will reap what we sow, therefore let us sow to the Spirit, not to the flesh.
OUTLINE OF II SAMUEL
I.         Victories of David (1:1-10:19)
•    Political Victories (1:1-5:25): Reign in Hebron, overcoming the Ishbosheth threat, conquest and reign in Jerusalem, defeat of the Philistines, alliance with Tyre
•    Spiritual Victories (6:1-7:29): The ark is brought to Jerusalem, Davidic covenant ratified.
•    Military Victories (8:1-10:19): Over the Philistines; Moabites, Zobah, Syrians, and Ammonites. He also remembers his covenant with Jonathan and treats his son Mephibosheth with respect.
II.      Sin of David (11:1-27)
•    David covets Bathsheba
•    David steals Bathsheba
•    David commits adultery with Bathsheba
•    David murders her husband, Uriah the Hittite
III.    Judgment in David’s Family (12:1-13:36)
•    Nathan’s prophecy and David’s repentance
•    Infant son of Bathsheba and David dies; Solomon is born
•    Amnon rapes sister Tamar
•    Amnon murdered by Tamar’s brother, Absalom
IV.   Judgment in David’s Kingdom (13:37-24:25)
•    Absalom’s revolt
•    Absalom murdered, rebellion ends
•    Sheba’s revolt & execution
•    Famine due to the Gibeonites
•    Mighty men and Philistine war
•    Foolish census
•    Plague as a judgement for the census
•    Sacrifice at the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite

Articles, Bible, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

God’s Peace Process – Part 02

                                                                           
It is precious, wonderful, and at times, rare. The world longs for peace but it always seems to be elusive. It is said of the Ottoman Turkish Empire (1300-1922) that there were only 24 consecutive years of peace throughout its entire history; otherwise, they were either fighting to take territory or to retain it.
While the world survived two world wars and a cold war, today there remain global hotspots, particularly in Asia, that are like dry tinder in a hot summer. One misguided spark and the region, if not the world, could go up in flames.
Add to that how even in the relatively prosperous and peaceful western world, many people lack personal peace, even as Christians. Be assured, this is not God’s will and He does have the best way forward.
In Part One, we learned that God has peace that surpasses all understanding. It is freely given, universal in scope, and eternal in duration. We learned that the pre-requisite to receiving this peace is to make a decision to obey Jesus’ command: don’t let your heart be troubled or afraid (John 14:27).
Here in Part Two, we want to learn how to establish God’s peace in your life.
In regard to the cause of conflict, even war, we need not go any further than the Book of James:
James 4:1-3 (MEV): Where do wars and fights among you come from? Do they not come from your lusts that war in your body? 2 You lust and do not have, so you kill. You desire to have and cannot obtain. you fight and war. Yet you do not have, because you do not ask. 3. You ask, and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your passions.
Bad as this – that our lusts cause conflict and war – there is something even worse. Humanity is serious danger of incurring the wrath of God, in part because of the lusts, greed, and sin. The Book of Romans says that God’s wrath is being stored up against all ungodliness and unrighteousness (1:18), hardness and impenitent hearts (2:5), and contentious people who do not obey the truth. Though we are made in God’s image, our sin nature and actions have put as in enmity towards God. The carnal mind is on a  collision course with God and it cannot be subject to His law (8:7).
Frankly, it is the most dire situation to be an enemy with the living God, but that’s what Romans tells us. Yet, God unilaterally instituted a solution to rectify this situation.
It is called the gospel of Jesus Christ. He died for our sins, was buried and rose again on the 3rd day; this is the gospel in a nutshell. Believe this and receive Him and an amazing thing happens. We are ‘saved’ and ‘justified,’ which means we are declared not guilty and righteous.
Peace Established
Do you want to enter the peace process? From the very outset, God’s peace will come upon your heart and mind. A tranquility beyond your own enablement will enter in. How do you get it?
Say ‘Yes’ to the gospel and the Prince of Peace Jesus Christ, receive justification, and look what comes next:
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ — Romans 5:1
It couldn’t been easier or clearer. When the Prince of Peace comes into your life, you are reconciled with God, adopted into His family, grafted into Israel’s olive tree (Romans 11:17-24) justification sets in, and a peace beyond all understanding will take control of your life.
Till this day, I will never forget the feeling of joy and peace I received when I asked Jesus into my life. That peace has stayed with me ever since. What God has done for me, He will do for you.
Unlike the manmade ‘peace process,’ where peace is given in instalments, God gives you complete peace on the spot. Yet, it is possible to grow in peace, like you can grow in grace, faith and glory. In fact, you can come to a place of great peace, perfect peace, and permanent peace.
Our upcoming articles will show you how.
Verses to Ponder
Romans 5:9
Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
Colossians 1:20
And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

Articles, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

Trump Chronicles Part 02: How Did He Win Over Middle America?

Last month, we looked at the American Brexit: The Triumph of Donald Trump.
Here we need to explore a very vital part of Trump’s appeal. Despite the universally negative portrayal of the man in the mainstream media (including in Australia) — which focused on one-liners and offensive comments – the fact is that he convincingly won the US Presidential election.
The reason? His policies and how he conveyed them.
Despite a highly-resistant group of conservatives who belonged to the ‘Never Trump’ camp, the candidate managed to win over many other conservatives, a good chunk of middle America, and also some Democrats. Over 80% of Evangelical Christians voted for the Republican nominee.
In her last book published days before her death in September 2016, US conservative icon Phyllis Schlafly (1924-2016) in The Case for Trump, outlined his key policies. Her bottom line: despite his being a former Democrat (so was Ronald Reagan), a reality television star, thrice-married, and a casino owner, Donald Trump is worthy of every true conservative’s support.
The portrait that is painted is of a patriot who sincerely believes in the slogan ‘Making America Great Again.’ He believes in hard work and family.
First, look at America over the last decade: a national debt that doubled, a declining military, a superpower unable to control its own borders, a vicious flare-up in the culture war, an increasing loss of religious freedom especially for Christians, foreign disasters in Syria and Libya, an emboldened China & Iran, an alienated Russia, increasing jihadism, and an marginalised middle class. In order for America to be great again, these issues have to be addressed and reversed.
Here are some of Trump’s key policy areas:
1.    Immigration: Trump says a nation without borders is no nation at all. He wants to triple the number of Immigration and customs Enforcement Officers (ICE), which currently is only 5,000 strong. This is less than the Los Angeles police force. The much-touted ‘Wall’ with Mexico is going to be built – it is not the first wall around (ever heard to the ‘Great Wall of China’). Sanctuary cities, which are metropolises who provide a safe-haven for illegals, including criminals, will be defunded. Trump’s point is that illegal migration is ‘illegal’ and America can recover its greatness if it is a nation which keeps the law.
2.    Free trade: Trump, and conservatives, argue that ‘free trade’ is killing American jobs. So he proposes to US companies who use cheap foreign labour pay a 35% tariff. The recently negotiated Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which Trump alleges is a ‘job-killer,’ may also be on the chopping block. He wants to be an advocate for the American worker.
3.    Political correctness: Despite outcries form the media, leftist politicians and mainstream Republicans, Donald Trump is determined to speak straight, from-the-heart, and not tap dance to political correctness. While the media focused repeatedly on some of Trump’s alleged annoying remarks, we need to remember that most politicians say offensive things – so why zero in on Trump? He is determined to speak directly and honestly on issues like ‘global warming,’ which he says is an expensive exercise which is ‘killing us.’ He will be even more forthright when it comes to jihadism, talking tough and acting tougher.
4.    Judicial activism: For at least half a century, the US Supreme court has practiced judicial activism. Instead of reviewing laws to see if they conform to the US constitution, as is its true role, the court basically ‘legislates from the bench’ on things that are not mentioned at all in the constitution. This is usurpation of Congress’s role. They have created ‘rights’ out of thin air. The court threw out prayer in public schools, while making abortion and same-sex marriage a ‘constitutional right.’ Until now, the unelected liberal justices have been accountable to no one. Two solutions for the wayward court: The US congress could pass legislation and second, the President can appoint conservative, constitutionally-honouring judges. Trump plans to do precisely that and his list of potential Supreme court nominees gets the thumbs up.
5.    Regulations: It is said that the two tools the left wing uses to control the agenda is political correctness and regulations, especially at the federal level. Trump wants to get rid of excess regulations and says ‘We can’t breath.’
6.    Military: The world is a more dangerous place than it was a decade ago, especially due to jihadism, an assertive China, and unpredictable Russia. Yet the US military has been emasculated at the same time. Trump wants to build up the military and take care of America’s neglected veterans. Like Ronald Reagan, who also built up the US military, the purpose is not to fight unnecessary Middle East wars, but to project ‘peace through strength’ so that war is avoided altogether.
7.    Faith & Family: Trump has been married three-times. He has owned casinos. He was caught on video making crude comments about women back in 2005. Yet, there is another side to him as well: He is a family man, a well-loved father, who now has a rock solid marriage with Melania while on good terms with his ex-wives. Remarkably, he has never taken drugs, smoked cigarettes, drank a drop of alcohol or even a cup of coffee. Furthermore, he says he is proud to be a Christian and says he will not allow the erosion of religious freedom that has grown alarmingly in the US. He says he will be a defender of the Church, in America and throughout the world. One conservative commentator who has dealt with Trump says that on all the important issues: abortion, marriage, religious liberty, US relations with Israel, Trump ‘ticks all the boxes.’

After decades of both Democrats and Republicans failing to balance the federal budget, protect America’s borders, and/or cut the red tape, middle American voters resonated with the message of Trump and with his them ‘Making America Great Again.’ They believed his promises to get things done.