Dear friends and readers,
Peace and grace to all of you this Christmas and Chanukah season,
As I research various articles, I look for central themes that keep popping up.When something big is thought to be either already in place or coming soon, invariably it will be discussed more and more in a variety of news formats and printed literature.
Just such a BIGGIE is popping up among both Christian writers and renowned Rabbinical authorities.
The subject matter involved is whether or not prophetically speaking, the election of President Donald Trump somehow signals a form of new advent of the famous King Cyrus. You will notice I did not say "reincarnation", something also speculated upon in some quarters but a subject matter that is decidedly UNBiblical in nature.
As we discuss this I will remind my readers that I do not publish articles that are in the least bit political in nature. That does not mean however that I do not discuss particular political figures but while doing so I make a sincere attempt not to malign these people or take sides in political arguments. In fact if I had to describe myself in political terms it would be as an avowed "Independent conservative". I reserve the right to exercise my vote for the best person for the job, regardless of whether they have an "R" or a "D" or any other initial preceding their names.
Having said that, I have noticed that several writers are attempting to compare the once great King Cyrus to the current occupant of the White House. Cyrus was a Persian King of great renown. It was King Cyrus, basically a secular leader who decreed that the building of the second Jewish Temple should proceed. You may recall that the first Temple was destroyed by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. Fast forward to Cyrus time and Nebuchadnezzar's home turf is now under Persian control with Cyrus as the "Grand Poobah" of the entire region, and a huge one at that. Cyrus felt some compassion for the Jews who had been displaced from Jerusalem and in fact the entire Holy land.
Interestingly, Cyrus was spoken about in the Bible by name long before he lived. By whom? By God Himself! In the book of Isaiah chapter 45 verses 1-8 the prophet speaking for God says" Thus says the Lord to His anointed, to Cyrus, who's right hand I have held---and then in verses 3-4 God says why He has named Cyrus in His holy word "---That you may know that I, the Lord, who call you by your name, Am the God of Israel. FOR JACOB MY SERVANTS SAKE, AND ISRAEL MY ELECT, I HAVE EVEN CALLED YOU BY YOUR NAME---"! (My italics added for emphasis).
Abraham had a son called Isaac who in turn had a son called Jacob. Jacob's name was changed by God to ISRAEL and he became the father of the 10 tribes of Israel who were later lead out of bondage in Egypt by Moses. When God used the prophet Isaiah to prophetically call Cyrus by name, it was 150 years before Cyrus was born. (Is it really possible for anyone to doubt the Bible after something like that???). King Cyrus was about 50 years old when he made the decree to once again begin building the walls of Jerusalem and the Temple. That means God called him by name a full two hundred years before the event took place. Obviously a man called by God to perform a task of immense importance to Israel.
Now we have President Trump. A most unlikely man to run for President of the ONLY NATION ON EARTH capable of positively effecting the modern day nation of Israel. Not only an unusual man to run but one who every single pundit on the planet loudly proclaimed did not have a chance of winning. But win he did---BIG TIME! And now he is the one American President who had the Chutzpah to proclaim that Jerusalem is Israel's capital city. 4 previous American Presidents had the opportunity to do so every six months for several years but deferred. Why? Because it was not God's timing for them to do so.
Remember your Biblical numerology? the number 7 is the number of completion. President Harry S. Truman (against ALL advice of his government at the time) recognized the new State of Israel shortly after it was announced by Israel's first Prime Minister, David Ben Gurion on May 14, 1948. Truman was the first world leader to do so. The amount of years between Truman's recognition and Trump's recognition is 69 years on the Gregorian calendar. But and this is a big but. The Jewish calendar is different than the traditional Gregorian calendar. The Jewish month of Nissan (falling between March and Aril) is the beginning of the Jewish calendar. But the month of Tishrei (falling between October and September) is the official beginning the the Jewish New Year. Confusing? Probably. The issue is whether or not on the Jewish calendar, President Trumps proclamation recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital, falls in the 70th Jewish year after President Truman's proclamation recognizing Israel's return from the scrap heap of history on May 14, 1948? There is only one nation to ever do so by the way---ISRAEL! I will leave it to the mathematicians out there to figure out the fine point of that particular argument.
The study of Biblical numerology is fascinating; For example, what if it really is 70 years between Truman's and Trump's proclamation regarding Israel? Is there any significance to the fact that undeniably 2018 is the 70th anniversary year since Israel became a Nation again after roughly 2000 years of anonymity? Is there any significance to the fact that the newly regathered, nascent Sanhedrin (religious ruling body of the Jewish people), have declared that the Jubilee year spans 2017-2018? FYI, Jubilee cycles are 50 years long and broken down into 7 year periods for a total of 50. Is there even a scintilla of significance to the established fact that President Trump on his day of inauguration was exactly 70 years, 7 months and 7 days old? What do you think?
Frankly several authors have drawn all kinds of other similarities between King Cyrus and President Trump. In fact (if you believe in such a thing) the scholars who specialize in "THE BIBLE CODES" claim they have discovered evidence that links Cyrus to Trump. Those are the very same guys who say they found imbedded in the scriptures, references to President Trump being elected. I have done some study in the Bible Codes although I am far from an expert on the subject. My own investigation has lead me to firmly believe that the codes are real but normally I do not teach about them because it is such a complex subject that you almost have to be an expert on the issue to speak about it with any degree of clarity. But I don't discount them either.
I can however speak with absolute authority in regards to what the Bible says about leadership. So can you. Romans chapter 13 verse 1-2 makes it abundantly clear. "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgement on themselves"!
Do you love President Trump or do you hate him? Same question for President Obama before him? Like them or hate them, they were in fact appointed by God. The reasons may not make sense to us here on this earth but I have zero doubt there is a grand scheme working it's way through the cosmos and that it originated in the throne room of God. Far better to pray for our leaders whether we personally like them or not.
So, what do you think? Is President Trump a modern day King Cyrus? A leader who against all odds is a friend to Israel? A friend with enough guts to put it to both word and deed? Is it possible that God will use this man to somehow assist Israel in it's growing quest to build a third Temple?
No proclamations here my friends but certainly worthy of thought, wouldn't you say?
Have a great day in Jesus,
AND a fascinating time studying Biblical prophecy!
Pastor Rance.
Wednesday, December 20, 2017
Thursday, November 9, 2017
Middle East briefing for 2018
Dear friends and readers,
The mysteries of the ages! Does God give advance warning to certain men regarding horrible future circumstances? We can begin with Amos 3:7 "Surely the Lord God does nothing unless He reveals His secrets to His servants the prophets"! Obviously God does give us a heads up about some future events. So, is there anything on the immediate horizon to indicate that prophecy is about it be fulfilled? But first let's see who is qualified to receive Godly insight.
2 Corinthians 12:2-3 contains a bit of information from the Apostle Paul that has stumped people for centuries. He states "I know a man in Christ, who 14 years ago---whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows---such a one was caught up to the third heaven. And I know such a man---whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows---how he was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. Of such a man I will boast; Yet of myself I will not boast, except in my infirmities".
Was Paul speaking of himself or did he really know someone else who had this remarkable thing happen to them?
Paul is not alone, although he is in extremely famous company; The Prophet Daniel was also given a vision but told in chapter 12 verse 4, "But you Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book until the time of the end; And many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase". Then there is the Apostle John who wrote in the book of Revelation (Revelation 22:10) that the vision he had received was NOT to be sealed because the time was already at hand. So, do only the great and Biblically mighty men of God receive advance knowledge of some future event or have there been others?
Ephesians chapter 4 verses 11-13 is the Apostle Paul telling the Ephesian church about Jesus. He states "And He Himself (Jesus) gave some to be Apostles, some Prophets, some Evangelists, and some to be Pastors and Teachers". And then goes on to say that these gifts were given for the benefit of the church and those in it. This was speaking of future events and the giving of future spiritual gifts so we know that there must have been other Prophets over the centuries. Personally I have always maintained a skeptical attitude toward people carrying business cards identifying themselves as Apostles or Prophets but that does not mean they do not exist.
The reason that I belabor this point is because, like Paul (not putting myself upon that lofty platform), I too know a man. I will not name this guy because he is still alive and wants no notoriety. Neither does he care to receive harsh criticism that would certainly come his way if he identified what he had seen in a vision. Roughly 35 years ago while transitioning from one career to another, this man had an incredible experience similar to the above stated Biblical giants but he did not see any angels, hear any voices or receive any instructions from "on High"! What I can tell you is that this is a regular guy--nothing special, with no history of embellishment and at the time of his "vision" he knew only that Jesus Christ was Lord. He had not read the Bible, he knew absolutely nothing about Israel (other than the fact that it existed), nothing about Biblical prophecy and in fact did not even attend a church.
During a short period back in the early 80's (2-3 days) he began to see an in color vision of absolutely horrifying worldwide destruction. Abject fear and horrible terror permeated this otherwise normal guy. When I say saw, it was for this man as though he were looking from the outside in, toward some virtual worldwide event with horrible, violent circumstances. At the end of whatever it was that he saw, he relates that it was like someone drew down the shade on a window. One moment this vision was there in living breathing color and the next it was----GONE! The vision was as though he was looking at it from afar, rather than being a part of it. When it literally disappeared from both his sight and his mind, the only things he could remember were that it was huge and horribly destructive in nature, he remembered the absolute fear he had felt and he remembered one other thing. The year of the happening. 2018.
This man relates that he did not feel he was able to share anything about this for roughly 35 years until October 2017. He received no heavenly instructions to do any big publications or write a book or anything of that nature. And I do not believe that he will. But this man has literally been waiting all these years, knowing that 2018 will bring horrible changes to this world like has never been seen before. He has no real idea what that might represent and even though this man has now been walking solidly with the Lord for many years, every attempt to ask the Lord to reopen this vision to him has been met with silence. Just waiting, waiting for a very large shoe to drop. When asked if he believes what he saw might represent the rapture, his answer was a qualified no. Although from my perspective, I suppose it could represent what might happen after the fact. To a world that has just suffered the loss of as many as a billion people or so. Who knows---just a thought!
So, we must ask ourselves a question? Did this person really see what he claims? After all he wants no notoriety whatsoever so what does he have to gain? Or was this the result of some really bad dream brought about by too much pizza the night before? Once again, who knows? But, I for one have paid attention. You might want to as well. Or simply dismiss the entire thing as a guy slightly off his rocker for 3 days. But of one fact I am certain. 2018 is now just 2 months away. I am not sure if I am looking forward to it or feeling more than a bit of trepidation. Actually both! And another pressing question. Is it possible that others may have seen these things for the future as well?
As a writer of Biblical prophecy, I can see that next year could very well bring some unpleasant surprises but I fall drastically short of making any predictions. With that statement, lets take a look at what is happening in the Middle East and to some extent around the world and then you can decide for yourselves what potential scenarios exist if any. Please remember that I am not a prophet so my opinion is simply that, nothing more.
1). First, right here in the good ole US of A. The current President is extremely popular with a huge cross section of conservative voters and thoroughly hated by most of those on the left. In addition he also has a great many opponents in his own political party. I mention that because it seems no matter what the guy does domestically, he is fighting an uphill battle every step of the way. On the one hand he wants to balance the budget but on the other has promised massive build ups in both infrastructure and military assets. With a 20 Trillion dollar national debt, you cannot have both. A huge build up also means adding a huge amount to an already dangerously high debt ceiling. Economists have been predicting a massive financial crisis in the USA for several years now and those who are making those claims are even more concerned by the day. If the "house of financial cards" falls it will take down the economies of many other nations of the world. Do you remember what happened shortly after 9-11? Wall Street was so impacted that the nation barely escaped financial ruin through only one terror attack albeit a huge one.
The nation is swimming in another type of debt as well. Billions upon billions of dollars annually in trade deficits with several very large countries. The Government is trying to correct that but the fact is these efforts could easily ignite massive trade wars on a number of fronts.
2). We (the entire world) are closer to a nuclear holocaust than anytime since the Bay of Pigs in the term of the late President John F. Kennedy. North Korea has verifiable nuclear assets and continues to make threats. Just one nuclear device launched in any direction could easily set off a regional conflict which could spread into a worldwide conflagration. Iran is doing it's best to "hoodwink" the world while still trying to develop a nuclear arsenal and they work very closely with the North Koreans.
3). China is trying desperately to achieve worldwide financial domination including replacing the dollar as the worlds currency with the Yen. China is also pushing for physical dominance in the North China sea which threatens the sovereignty of Japan, the Philippines, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam and others.
4). Russia under President Vlademir Putin is once again in the ascendancy and has global aspirations as a replacement for the United States as world leader. In my opinion Putin is trying to rebuild the old Soviet Union but this time under the flag of Mother Russia and eventually headed by a new era replacement for the Czar---namely himself. Both the USA and Russia have tested new long range intercontinental ballistic missiles this past year. Once again we are on the edge of absolute brinkmanship on nuclear steroids.
5). Both India and Pakistan are nuclear nations who are located side by side and who are mortal enemies. Pakistan could easily be taken over by military coup or those with extremist ideology which would put nuclear weapons in the hands of terrorists.
6). After over 13 years the United States is still embroiled in a no-win war in Afghanistan which could easily boil over into Pakistan and India on the East and even more so into China with a massive influx of war torn refugees. Also Westward into Iran and Northward into several of the former Soviet "Stans" . It would appear that the US is once again building up troop strength in that area of the world. To what end?
7). North Korea and South Korea are on the brink of war and have been since the armistice was declared invalid by the north in 1953. Any kind of war between these two nations will absolutely spill over and involve the United States, China and Russia. Catastrophe in the making. Only a matter of time.
8). Several nations on the African continent are once again at war or threatening to do so. Drought, Plague and famine are once again threatening millions of people.
9). Israel, the only Democracy in the entire Middle East is surrounded by extremely violent enemies. Hezbollah located in Lebanon has over 120,000 missiles pointed at Israeli cities. Both Hezbollah and Hamas on the Gaza strip are proxy armies of Iran. Turkey to the north was a long time ally of Israel and a Democratic modern nation. Now in just a couple of short years Turkey has been taken over as a dictatorship run by Muslim extremists with pure hated for Israel. This is a powder keg ready to explode and one tiny spark is all it will take.
10). Saudi Arabia and Jordan are both royal kingdoms and both live in daily fear of overthrow by religious extremists. At this moment Saudi Arabia has begun purges of wealthy aristocrats and even a few members of the Royal family. Another powder keg and no one really understands why this is happening other than the fact that it destabilizes the Middle East to an even greater extent. Yemen and Libya are not really legal forms of Government and are literally havens for every type of violent terrorist on the planet. The Sinai peninsula is heavily occupied by remnants of ISIS, which although loosing tactical ground in the Middle East is waging a deadly war on European nations plus the USA using proxies and homegrown terrorists.
11). Syria is run by a tyrant and is awash with civil war creating death and destruction for untold millions of people with more reduced to incredible levels of poverty and homelessness. Forced to leave their ancestral homes and countries to become an unending flow of refugees. Not to mention more Christian martyrs than since the Roman Empire specialized in Gladiators and Colosseum entertainment with Christians being burned alive and fed to lions. The evil government in Syria is being propped up by the Russian Government and that of Iran with ever increasing aid from Turkey. The unholy alliance if three. The very same three who will one day invade Israel.
12). The war of Gog from the land of Magog (Ezekiel chapters 38-39) is in the forming stages as we speak. A huge invasion army led by Russia and Iran and probably other groups located in and around both Turkey and Africa who will one day invade Israel. Russia, and Turkey and Iran who have throughout history been violent enemies are now coming together in the Middle East and have forces very close to Israel's Northern boarder with Syria near the Golan Heights.
13). In other areas of the world instability is a key words such as in Argentina which is a huge oil exporter, another Democracy recently taken over by extremist Socialist ideology and a virulent dictatorship.
Frankly this list is an abbreviated form of a world on the brink of war that could spill over and make both WWI and WWII look like child's play. And in just one and one half months we begin the first half of 2018. What will it portend for everyone on planet earth?
Is the fact that 2018 is the 70th year of Israel's independence an important factor? Or will Jesus words be important (Matthew chapter 24 verses 34-35) "Assuredly I say to you this generation (believed to be the one that saw Israel once again become a nation), will by no means pass away till all these things take place". Is there any connection to His statements about "this generation" and Psalm 90:10 ? "The days of our lives are 70 years---". Let's see now, the year Israel became a nation---1948 plus 70 years? Ah yes, that would also be 2018. Please know that these are the questions I am asking myself, they are not statements of fact.
And what of the "man I know" who had that vision over 35 years ago? Has he waited all those years in vain? Or will 2018 signal unspeakable violence and terror for mankind? Frankly I sincerely hope not but I am also looking at the world map and do not like what I see. Nor the various circumstances, any one of which could ignite a raging fire from which it might not be possible to pull back.
Finally, I am normally a very positive guy. My cup is the one that is 100% full. At the same time I do believe that worldwide circumstances are racing toward problems so severe that it will usher in the events necessary for the anti christ to step onto the world stage. I don't know if 2018 will be that year but I am frankly, full of suspicions.
God bless,
Pastor Rance.
The mysteries of the ages! Does God give advance warning to certain men regarding horrible future circumstances? We can begin with Amos 3:7 "Surely the Lord God does nothing unless He reveals His secrets to His servants the prophets"! Obviously God does give us a heads up about some future events. So, is there anything on the immediate horizon to indicate that prophecy is about it be fulfilled? But first let's see who is qualified to receive Godly insight.
2 Corinthians 12:2-3 contains a bit of information from the Apostle Paul that has stumped people for centuries. He states "I know a man in Christ, who 14 years ago---whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows---such a one was caught up to the third heaven. And I know such a man---whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows---how he was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. Of such a man I will boast; Yet of myself I will not boast, except in my infirmities".
Was Paul speaking of himself or did he really know someone else who had this remarkable thing happen to them?
Paul is not alone, although he is in extremely famous company; The Prophet Daniel was also given a vision but told in chapter 12 verse 4, "But you Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book until the time of the end; And many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase". Then there is the Apostle John who wrote in the book of Revelation (Revelation 22:10) that the vision he had received was NOT to be sealed because the time was already at hand. So, do only the great and Biblically mighty men of God receive advance knowledge of some future event or have there been others?
Ephesians chapter 4 verses 11-13 is the Apostle Paul telling the Ephesian church about Jesus. He states "And He Himself (Jesus) gave some to be Apostles, some Prophets, some Evangelists, and some to be Pastors and Teachers". And then goes on to say that these gifts were given for the benefit of the church and those in it. This was speaking of future events and the giving of future spiritual gifts so we know that there must have been other Prophets over the centuries. Personally I have always maintained a skeptical attitude toward people carrying business cards identifying themselves as Apostles or Prophets but that does not mean they do not exist.
The reason that I belabor this point is because, like Paul (not putting myself upon that lofty platform), I too know a man. I will not name this guy because he is still alive and wants no notoriety. Neither does he care to receive harsh criticism that would certainly come his way if he identified what he had seen in a vision. Roughly 35 years ago while transitioning from one career to another, this man had an incredible experience similar to the above stated Biblical giants but he did not see any angels, hear any voices or receive any instructions from "on High"! What I can tell you is that this is a regular guy--nothing special, with no history of embellishment and at the time of his "vision" he knew only that Jesus Christ was Lord. He had not read the Bible, he knew absolutely nothing about Israel (other than the fact that it existed), nothing about Biblical prophecy and in fact did not even attend a church.
During a short period back in the early 80's (2-3 days) he began to see an in color vision of absolutely horrifying worldwide destruction. Abject fear and horrible terror permeated this otherwise normal guy. When I say saw, it was for this man as though he were looking from the outside in, toward some virtual worldwide event with horrible, violent circumstances. At the end of whatever it was that he saw, he relates that it was like someone drew down the shade on a window. One moment this vision was there in living breathing color and the next it was----GONE! The vision was as though he was looking at it from afar, rather than being a part of it. When it literally disappeared from both his sight and his mind, the only things he could remember were that it was huge and horribly destructive in nature, he remembered the absolute fear he had felt and he remembered one other thing. The year of the happening. 2018.
This man relates that he did not feel he was able to share anything about this for roughly 35 years until October 2017. He received no heavenly instructions to do any big publications or write a book or anything of that nature. And I do not believe that he will. But this man has literally been waiting all these years, knowing that 2018 will bring horrible changes to this world like has never been seen before. He has no real idea what that might represent and even though this man has now been walking solidly with the Lord for many years, every attempt to ask the Lord to reopen this vision to him has been met with silence. Just waiting, waiting for a very large shoe to drop. When asked if he believes what he saw might represent the rapture, his answer was a qualified no. Although from my perspective, I suppose it could represent what might happen after the fact. To a world that has just suffered the loss of as many as a billion people or so. Who knows---just a thought!
So, we must ask ourselves a question? Did this person really see what he claims? After all he wants no notoriety whatsoever so what does he have to gain? Or was this the result of some really bad dream brought about by too much pizza the night before? Once again, who knows? But, I for one have paid attention. You might want to as well. Or simply dismiss the entire thing as a guy slightly off his rocker for 3 days. But of one fact I am certain. 2018 is now just 2 months away. I am not sure if I am looking forward to it or feeling more than a bit of trepidation. Actually both! And another pressing question. Is it possible that others may have seen these things for the future as well?
As a writer of Biblical prophecy, I can see that next year could very well bring some unpleasant surprises but I fall drastically short of making any predictions. With that statement, lets take a look at what is happening in the Middle East and to some extent around the world and then you can decide for yourselves what potential scenarios exist if any. Please remember that I am not a prophet so my opinion is simply that, nothing more.
1). First, right here in the good ole US of A. The current President is extremely popular with a huge cross section of conservative voters and thoroughly hated by most of those on the left. In addition he also has a great many opponents in his own political party. I mention that because it seems no matter what the guy does domestically, he is fighting an uphill battle every step of the way. On the one hand he wants to balance the budget but on the other has promised massive build ups in both infrastructure and military assets. With a 20 Trillion dollar national debt, you cannot have both. A huge build up also means adding a huge amount to an already dangerously high debt ceiling. Economists have been predicting a massive financial crisis in the USA for several years now and those who are making those claims are even more concerned by the day. If the "house of financial cards" falls it will take down the economies of many other nations of the world. Do you remember what happened shortly after 9-11? Wall Street was so impacted that the nation barely escaped financial ruin through only one terror attack albeit a huge one.
The nation is swimming in another type of debt as well. Billions upon billions of dollars annually in trade deficits with several very large countries. The Government is trying to correct that but the fact is these efforts could easily ignite massive trade wars on a number of fronts.
2). We (the entire world) are closer to a nuclear holocaust than anytime since the Bay of Pigs in the term of the late President John F. Kennedy. North Korea has verifiable nuclear assets and continues to make threats. Just one nuclear device launched in any direction could easily set off a regional conflict which could spread into a worldwide conflagration. Iran is doing it's best to "hoodwink" the world while still trying to develop a nuclear arsenal and they work very closely with the North Koreans.
3). China is trying desperately to achieve worldwide financial domination including replacing the dollar as the worlds currency with the Yen. China is also pushing for physical dominance in the North China sea which threatens the sovereignty of Japan, the Philippines, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam and others.
4). Russia under President Vlademir Putin is once again in the ascendancy and has global aspirations as a replacement for the United States as world leader. In my opinion Putin is trying to rebuild the old Soviet Union but this time under the flag of Mother Russia and eventually headed by a new era replacement for the Czar---namely himself. Both the USA and Russia have tested new long range intercontinental ballistic missiles this past year. Once again we are on the edge of absolute brinkmanship on nuclear steroids.
5). Both India and Pakistan are nuclear nations who are located side by side and who are mortal enemies. Pakistan could easily be taken over by military coup or those with extremist ideology which would put nuclear weapons in the hands of terrorists.
6). After over 13 years the United States is still embroiled in a no-win war in Afghanistan which could easily boil over into Pakistan and India on the East and even more so into China with a massive influx of war torn refugees. Also Westward into Iran and Northward into several of the former Soviet "Stans" . It would appear that the US is once again building up troop strength in that area of the world. To what end?
7). North Korea and South Korea are on the brink of war and have been since the armistice was declared invalid by the north in 1953. Any kind of war between these two nations will absolutely spill over and involve the United States, China and Russia. Catastrophe in the making. Only a matter of time.
8). Several nations on the African continent are once again at war or threatening to do so. Drought, Plague and famine are once again threatening millions of people.
9). Israel, the only Democracy in the entire Middle East is surrounded by extremely violent enemies. Hezbollah located in Lebanon has over 120,000 missiles pointed at Israeli cities. Both Hezbollah and Hamas on the Gaza strip are proxy armies of Iran. Turkey to the north was a long time ally of Israel and a Democratic modern nation. Now in just a couple of short years Turkey has been taken over as a dictatorship run by Muslim extremists with pure hated for Israel. This is a powder keg ready to explode and one tiny spark is all it will take.
10). Saudi Arabia and Jordan are both royal kingdoms and both live in daily fear of overthrow by religious extremists. At this moment Saudi Arabia has begun purges of wealthy aristocrats and even a few members of the Royal family. Another powder keg and no one really understands why this is happening other than the fact that it destabilizes the Middle East to an even greater extent. Yemen and Libya are not really legal forms of Government and are literally havens for every type of violent terrorist on the planet. The Sinai peninsula is heavily occupied by remnants of ISIS, which although loosing tactical ground in the Middle East is waging a deadly war on European nations plus the USA using proxies and homegrown terrorists.
11). Syria is run by a tyrant and is awash with civil war creating death and destruction for untold millions of people with more reduced to incredible levels of poverty and homelessness. Forced to leave their ancestral homes and countries to become an unending flow of refugees. Not to mention more Christian martyrs than since the Roman Empire specialized in Gladiators and Colosseum entertainment with Christians being burned alive and fed to lions. The evil government in Syria is being propped up by the Russian Government and that of Iran with ever increasing aid from Turkey. The unholy alliance if three. The very same three who will one day invade Israel.
12). The war of Gog from the land of Magog (Ezekiel chapters 38-39) is in the forming stages as we speak. A huge invasion army led by Russia and Iran and probably other groups located in and around both Turkey and Africa who will one day invade Israel. Russia, and Turkey and Iran who have throughout history been violent enemies are now coming together in the Middle East and have forces very close to Israel's Northern boarder with Syria near the Golan Heights.
13). In other areas of the world instability is a key words such as in Argentina which is a huge oil exporter, another Democracy recently taken over by extremist Socialist ideology and a virulent dictatorship.
Frankly this list is an abbreviated form of a world on the brink of war that could spill over and make both WWI and WWII look like child's play. And in just one and one half months we begin the first half of 2018. What will it portend for everyone on planet earth?
Is the fact that 2018 is the 70th year of Israel's independence an important factor? Or will Jesus words be important (Matthew chapter 24 verses 34-35) "Assuredly I say to you this generation (believed to be the one that saw Israel once again become a nation), will by no means pass away till all these things take place". Is there any connection to His statements about "this generation" and Psalm 90:10 ? "The days of our lives are 70 years---". Let's see now, the year Israel became a nation---1948 plus 70 years? Ah yes, that would also be 2018. Please know that these are the questions I am asking myself, they are not statements of fact.
And what of the "man I know" who had that vision over 35 years ago? Has he waited all those years in vain? Or will 2018 signal unspeakable violence and terror for mankind? Frankly I sincerely hope not but I am also looking at the world map and do not like what I see. Nor the various circumstances, any one of which could ignite a raging fire from which it might not be possible to pull back.
Finally, I am normally a very positive guy. My cup is the one that is 100% full. At the same time I do believe that worldwide circumstances are racing toward problems so severe that it will usher in the events necessary for the anti christ to step onto the world stage. I don't know if 2018 will be that year but I am frankly, full of suspicions.
God bless,
Pastor Rance.
Friday, October 27, 2017
Israel, why are some people so blind? TO BIBLICAL TRUTH!!!
Dear friends and readers,
I cannot tell you how many articles I have written about Israel not to mention dozens of other writers who explain what is really happening with Israel both physically and spiritually. And you know I do fully understand why the "WORLD" does not get it. What I fail to understand is why so many self professing Christians simply cannot or will not believe what the Bible itself says about Israel.
Maybe it will always be that way? I certainly hope not and I will (along with many others) continue to explain the truth. But if this is so utterly frustrating to me, can you imagine how frustrating it must be to people in Israel? You know right about now I could bury this article in scripture from both the Old and New Testaments---every bit of which will support Israel. Fill it full and then some. Painstakingly defend Israel from a Biblical view point and also tell about what is actually happening on the ground over there. But I have learned that people who read about Israel generally fall into two very different camps.
1). Hate Israel and the moment she is mentioned tune out regardless of truth.
2). Love Israel and mostly already know and understand the scriptures that guys like myself include in our articles. Very little middle ground.
So why do I even bother? Why do we who do understand spend hours and hours of research, writing time and even longer in proof reading when it probably will change no ones mind? Maybe it's a heart thing. I know it is for me. I know it is for the Lord because His Holy Word says so---repeatedly! I know it was way back 2000 years ago for the Apostle Paul. I know it was as long ago as about 3,500 years ago for Moses and succeeding generations of Biblical prophets. You know the message about Israel has never changed. Not once but somehow many within the church still do not get the picture.
Fortunately there are increasing numbers of believers who are having their eyes opened to the truth but I have to ask myself a question? If the subject of Israel is so incredibly important to me and many others that I know, how is it that there are a reported 2 billion 500 million Christians on planet earth and still phony outfits like the United Nations can get away with distorting the truth, utter lies and false propaganda that is so completely ridiculous yet so many people suck it up like candy?
You know the Old Testament speaks of Watchmen on the walls. Specifically in the book of Isaiah chapter 62: 6-7. "I (God) have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; They shall never hold their peace day or night. You who make mention of the Lord, do not keep silent, and give Him (God) no rest till He establishes and till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth". In the New King James edition, chapter 63 is entitled "THE DAY OF MESSIAH'S REVENGE". And revenge someday their most certainly will be. Clearly it is up to every single person who "make mention of the Lord". To do what? To plead the case for Jerusalem in the very throne room of God. No, God doe's not need help. He could do this all by Himself. Yes, He has instructed us to pray. I sometimes wonder if some folks ever think about the fact that God obviously wants a true and loving partnership with His created children? You know, a teamwork effort?
I have one title, Pastor, plain and simple. Can't tell you how many people carry around business cards identifying themselves as an Apostle or Prophet. I generally throw those directly in the pig trough. For you city folk that means the round file---garbage can. If someone needs to tell people they are a Prophet or Apostle I can almost guarantee they are not. Titles are a dime a dozen. I tell you that because I would never dream of naming myself as one of God's chosen watchmen. Still, while I draw breath I am going to do exactly what this scripture says because I do in fact make mention of the Lord every chance I get. Are we as believers not supposed to do that? And I know many more folks who feel exactly the same way but not nearly enough to change the evil tide of misinformation peddled nearly daily by news media around the globe who are in the pockets of corrupt politicians. How about you? Are you ready to stand up for Israel? Frankly, to do otherwise is to stick your finger in God's eye!
Where is the outrage within the church when Israel is targeted for destruction by evil empires? Oh yes, there is some outrage as should be the case when anyone is picked on. Where is the challenge of truth against those who publish outright lying propaganda against God's chosen people and the boarders of land given to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who's name was changed to ISRAEL by God Himself. Where are the voices of literally millions of believers who have gone on tours to Israel and say they loved every minute of it? How is it that false teachers have turned entire major denominations against Israel, "THE APPLE OF GOD"S EYE"? (Zechariah 2:8). And why is it that those false teachers can get away with peddling that stuff without being caught "dirty" by all those people sitting in pews with Bibles on their laps?
What we see happening should not surprise us if we really are in the end times because the scriptures clearly state that the nations will turn against Israel. (Joel 3:2, Genesis 12:3, Zechariah 12:1-14, Revelation 16:13-16, Psalm 83:1-18, Malachi 4:1, Ezekiel 38:1-23, Luke 21:24). Shall I go on? Because there are very many more scriptures that any Bible reading believer cannot possibly miss on the subject of God's true love and heart toward Israel and His chosen people? No, it should NOT surprise us but that does not take anything away from this being one of the chief travesties of all time.
Let's see, what did that say again in Isaiah 62? "You who make mention of the Lord do not keep silent"! I wonder what will happen at the judgement seat of Christ if that question is asked? Oh, well maybe the Lord will forget or leave that one out? Do I sound frustrated? I am only a pleb (common person) when it comes to Israel. We have only been there 9 times. But do you know what I saw with my own eyes there? Israel supplying electricity and water to Gaza. Israel passing through truck loads (literally tons) of food and other supplies to them every single week.
Arab/Muslim cab drivers personally telling me that they would much rather live under Israeli sovereignty because their kids can go to school, they can have businesses, they are respected as citizens of Israel. Did you know that the Israeli's nearly ALWAYS send relief and medical teams to other countries experiencing floods, earthquakes, plagues and food shortages? Did you know they even send teams to countries who hate them? Just last month Israeli teams were helping in Mexico during the big earth quakes (not that the Israelis are hated by Mexicans because that would be a real stretch of the truth). But you get my point---I hope! It is simply NOT the way it is portrayed in the press.
Does Israel sometimes make mistakes? Certainly as do all nations. Are they eating Palestinian children (as is taught in many of the PA schools)? No that is so ridiculous it is not even worthy of discussion.
Did you know that leaders of Hamas and other terror organizations frequently send their own family members to Israeli hospitals? Did you know that the Israeli hospitals treat these people with respect and give them the same level of care they give their own citizens? And then guess what? Those same leaders turn right around and preach hate toward Israel and encourage bomb attacks, rockets flying toward Israeli schools and people walking down the street peacefully to suddenly be struck down with a knife in their back?
The anti Israel rhetoric worldwide is at an all time high and becoming a mega blast, a literal cacophony of ugly hate filled, violent and threatening Anti Semitic verbal flotsam that is becoming dangerously close to starting a war that no one wants but few make any effort to avoid. A great portion of this is being generated within the hallowed halls of the United Nations. A totally worthless organization if I ever saw one. It amazes me that the UN human rights commission actually has members on it from Muslim nations that openly practice female genital mutilation, will not allow women to attend school nor go shopping without a male family member in attendance, practice honor killings of female family members who cannot even legally drive a car. What an awesome example to the youth of the free world.
In the Old Testament days King Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines plus a torrid affair with the infamous Queen of Sheba. (At the risk of cracking wise during a very serious article, can you imagine having 1000 wives telling you where to move the couch?). Until the 17th century early tradition had it that Solomon housed his many wives and concubines on a small hill called the "HILL OF EVIL COUNSEL" which is still located south east of Jerusalem and just south of the Valley of Hinnom. If you recall this great and wise King was slowly drawn into idol worship at the end of his life by all these women, many of whom were from foreign Kingdoms. Ergo---EVIL COUNSEL!
Additionally, It is believed to be the very last meeting place between Judas and some of the Pharisees while making a pact for Judas to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. After Judas killed himself, those same 30 pieces of silver were used to purchase a plot of ground also believed to be part of the site of the Hill of Evil Counsel. On that same general topographical hill was supposedly located, the house of the Priest Caiaphas who was instrumental in proclaiming the intended death of Jesus. Not an awesome history for that particular plot of dirt.
As a final evil turn of fate, guess what is located on the Hill of Evil Counsel today? United Nations headquarters Jerusalem!
This is either the worst possible slap in the face to Israel or depending upon the way you look at it, a major act of somewhat dark heavenly humor on the part of God Himself.
Folks, the Lord Jesus Christ was a Jew. He still is a Jew and always will be one. The very roots of Christianity began in Jerusalem and a large portion of the first century church were Jewish. There have always been Jews who recognized Christ as their Messiah albeit few in numbers until the rise of the current Messianic church which is now thriving and growing in Israel. Romans chapter 11 is an in depth focus by Paul the Apostle regarding exactly what a follower of Christ is in relation to Israel. It is impossible to read that chapter and come away as an enemy of Israel. But somehow that either happens or Romans is not being taught.
Coming into the end of time as the church knows it, Israel will have no other friends than true followers of Christ. It is time for our voices to be heard. It is time for all of us to be watchmen on the wall.
God bless,
Pastor Rance.
I cannot tell you how many articles I have written about Israel not to mention dozens of other writers who explain what is really happening with Israel both physically and spiritually. And you know I do fully understand why the "WORLD" does not get it. What I fail to understand is why so many self professing Christians simply cannot or will not believe what the Bible itself says about Israel.
Maybe it will always be that way? I certainly hope not and I will (along with many others) continue to explain the truth. But if this is so utterly frustrating to me, can you imagine how frustrating it must be to people in Israel? You know right about now I could bury this article in scripture from both the Old and New Testaments---every bit of which will support Israel. Fill it full and then some. Painstakingly defend Israel from a Biblical view point and also tell about what is actually happening on the ground over there. But I have learned that people who read about Israel generally fall into two very different camps.
1). Hate Israel and the moment she is mentioned tune out regardless of truth.
2). Love Israel and mostly already know and understand the scriptures that guys like myself include in our articles. Very little middle ground.
So why do I even bother? Why do we who do understand spend hours and hours of research, writing time and even longer in proof reading when it probably will change no ones mind? Maybe it's a heart thing. I know it is for me. I know it is for the Lord because His Holy Word says so---repeatedly! I know it was way back 2000 years ago for the Apostle Paul. I know it was as long ago as about 3,500 years ago for Moses and succeeding generations of Biblical prophets. You know the message about Israel has never changed. Not once but somehow many within the church still do not get the picture.
Fortunately there are increasing numbers of believers who are having their eyes opened to the truth but I have to ask myself a question? If the subject of Israel is so incredibly important to me and many others that I know, how is it that there are a reported 2 billion 500 million Christians on planet earth and still phony outfits like the United Nations can get away with distorting the truth, utter lies and false propaganda that is so completely ridiculous yet so many people suck it up like candy?
You know the Old Testament speaks of Watchmen on the walls. Specifically in the book of Isaiah chapter 62: 6-7. "I (God) have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; They shall never hold their peace day or night. You who make mention of the Lord, do not keep silent, and give Him (God) no rest till He establishes and till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth". In the New King James edition, chapter 63 is entitled "THE DAY OF MESSIAH'S REVENGE". And revenge someday their most certainly will be. Clearly it is up to every single person who "make mention of the Lord". To do what? To plead the case for Jerusalem in the very throne room of God. No, God doe's not need help. He could do this all by Himself. Yes, He has instructed us to pray. I sometimes wonder if some folks ever think about the fact that God obviously wants a true and loving partnership with His created children? You know, a teamwork effort?
I have one title, Pastor, plain and simple. Can't tell you how many people carry around business cards identifying themselves as an Apostle or Prophet. I generally throw those directly in the pig trough. For you city folk that means the round file---garbage can. If someone needs to tell people they are a Prophet or Apostle I can almost guarantee they are not. Titles are a dime a dozen. I tell you that because I would never dream of naming myself as one of God's chosen watchmen. Still, while I draw breath I am going to do exactly what this scripture says because I do in fact make mention of the Lord every chance I get. Are we as believers not supposed to do that? And I know many more folks who feel exactly the same way but not nearly enough to change the evil tide of misinformation peddled nearly daily by news media around the globe who are in the pockets of corrupt politicians. How about you? Are you ready to stand up for Israel? Frankly, to do otherwise is to stick your finger in God's eye!
Where is the outrage within the church when Israel is targeted for destruction by evil empires? Oh yes, there is some outrage as should be the case when anyone is picked on. Where is the challenge of truth against those who publish outright lying propaganda against God's chosen people and the boarders of land given to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who's name was changed to ISRAEL by God Himself. Where are the voices of literally millions of believers who have gone on tours to Israel and say they loved every minute of it? How is it that false teachers have turned entire major denominations against Israel, "THE APPLE OF GOD"S EYE"? (Zechariah 2:8). And why is it that those false teachers can get away with peddling that stuff without being caught "dirty" by all those people sitting in pews with Bibles on their laps?
What we see happening should not surprise us if we really are in the end times because the scriptures clearly state that the nations will turn against Israel. (Joel 3:2, Genesis 12:3, Zechariah 12:1-14, Revelation 16:13-16, Psalm 83:1-18, Malachi 4:1, Ezekiel 38:1-23, Luke 21:24). Shall I go on? Because there are very many more scriptures that any Bible reading believer cannot possibly miss on the subject of God's true love and heart toward Israel and His chosen people? No, it should NOT surprise us but that does not take anything away from this being one of the chief travesties of all time.
Let's see, what did that say again in Isaiah 62? "You who make mention of the Lord do not keep silent"! I wonder what will happen at the judgement seat of Christ if that question is asked? Oh, well maybe the Lord will forget or leave that one out? Do I sound frustrated? I am only a pleb (common person) when it comes to Israel. We have only been there 9 times. But do you know what I saw with my own eyes there? Israel supplying electricity and water to Gaza. Israel passing through truck loads (literally tons) of food and other supplies to them every single week.
Arab/Muslim cab drivers personally telling me that they would much rather live under Israeli sovereignty because their kids can go to school, they can have businesses, they are respected as citizens of Israel. Did you know that the Israeli's nearly ALWAYS send relief and medical teams to other countries experiencing floods, earthquakes, plagues and food shortages? Did you know they even send teams to countries who hate them? Just last month Israeli teams were helping in Mexico during the big earth quakes (not that the Israelis are hated by Mexicans because that would be a real stretch of the truth). But you get my point---I hope! It is simply NOT the way it is portrayed in the press.
Does Israel sometimes make mistakes? Certainly as do all nations. Are they eating Palestinian children (as is taught in many of the PA schools)? No that is so ridiculous it is not even worthy of discussion.
Did you know that leaders of Hamas and other terror organizations frequently send their own family members to Israeli hospitals? Did you know that the Israeli hospitals treat these people with respect and give them the same level of care they give their own citizens? And then guess what? Those same leaders turn right around and preach hate toward Israel and encourage bomb attacks, rockets flying toward Israeli schools and people walking down the street peacefully to suddenly be struck down with a knife in their back?
The anti Israel rhetoric worldwide is at an all time high and becoming a mega blast, a literal cacophony of ugly hate filled, violent and threatening Anti Semitic verbal flotsam that is becoming dangerously close to starting a war that no one wants but few make any effort to avoid. A great portion of this is being generated within the hallowed halls of the United Nations. A totally worthless organization if I ever saw one. It amazes me that the UN human rights commission actually has members on it from Muslim nations that openly practice female genital mutilation, will not allow women to attend school nor go shopping without a male family member in attendance, practice honor killings of female family members who cannot even legally drive a car. What an awesome example to the youth of the free world.
In the Old Testament days King Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines plus a torrid affair with the infamous Queen of Sheba. (At the risk of cracking wise during a very serious article, can you imagine having 1000 wives telling you where to move the couch?). Until the 17th century early tradition had it that Solomon housed his many wives and concubines on a small hill called the "HILL OF EVIL COUNSEL" which is still located south east of Jerusalem and just south of the Valley of Hinnom. If you recall this great and wise King was slowly drawn into idol worship at the end of his life by all these women, many of whom were from foreign Kingdoms. Ergo---EVIL COUNSEL!
Additionally, It is believed to be the very last meeting place between Judas and some of the Pharisees while making a pact for Judas to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. After Judas killed himself, those same 30 pieces of silver were used to purchase a plot of ground also believed to be part of the site of the Hill of Evil Counsel. On that same general topographical hill was supposedly located, the house of the Priest Caiaphas who was instrumental in proclaiming the intended death of Jesus. Not an awesome history for that particular plot of dirt.
As a final evil turn of fate, guess what is located on the Hill of Evil Counsel today? United Nations headquarters Jerusalem!
This is either the worst possible slap in the face to Israel or depending upon the way you look at it, a major act of somewhat dark heavenly humor on the part of God Himself.
Folks, the Lord Jesus Christ was a Jew. He still is a Jew and always will be one. The very roots of Christianity began in Jerusalem and a large portion of the first century church were Jewish. There have always been Jews who recognized Christ as their Messiah albeit few in numbers until the rise of the current Messianic church which is now thriving and growing in Israel. Romans chapter 11 is an in depth focus by Paul the Apostle regarding exactly what a follower of Christ is in relation to Israel. It is impossible to read that chapter and come away as an enemy of Israel. But somehow that either happens or Romans is not being taught.
Coming into the end of time as the church knows it, Israel will have no other friends than true followers of Christ. It is time for our voices to be heard. It is time for all of us to be watchmen on the wall.
God bless,
Pastor Rance.
Sunday, October 15, 2017
Israel in the Middle east, a VERY dangerous neighborhood!
Dear friends and readers,
I sincerely hope you are all doing well today and are enjoying your salvation. Speaking of salvation, can you believe that it all came about through the sacrifice of one man? Makes me wonder if I would do what Jesus did for a bunch of total strangers. How about you? But hey, what counts is that we are about our Fathers business, keeping Jesus commands and doing everything we can to help those around us.
I want to talk to you today about one of my favorite subjects, ISRAEL. Before I do, a great big "shout out" to all of you who are following my blogs and sharing them with your friends and neighbors. The Lord just blessed me with a new reader in Malta which means now that folks in nearly 50 countries are tuning in. Once someone from a new country locks on the upward spiral slowly begins. There are now many readers in some countries and a few in others but that is the way it goes when writing on the Internet. I now have over 130 lengthy articles on the net and am pleased when I see folks looking up articles that I wrote 2-3 years ago plus of course the new weekly editions. Thank you one and all.
As usual a week cannot go by without Israel making news in some way. Generally speaking, negative news because few news sources are positive about Israel in the slightest way. Too bad to because the God of the Bible is extremely firm on what will happen to ANY enemies of Israel. So, New York Times or Bible? Take your pick because in few cases you cannot agree with both.
Let's take the new US President for example. Setting aside all the personality stuff, I think he will actually get around to moving the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem one day but not anytime soon. For now in the face of extreme problems with both Iran and North Korea, the USA needs all the help it can get from Arab nation partners in the Middle East and the day the Embassy moves is the day that help will disappear. So, for now as only 1 vote, I can give President Trump a pass on this issue. But not forever. I wrote a letter to President George Bush years ago and told him in no uncertain terms that I was dropping out of his party permanently because he violated his word to move the Embassy. I actually received a letter back. A form letter but better than nothing---at least some overworked secretary responded. The fact remains that I have been an independent ever since. As a Christian and an avid supporter of Israel, this issue is vital to me.
I have come to believe that once having sat in the big Oval Office chair, something happens to these guys---new Presidents. An invisible source/power reaches up and grabs them. The name of the source is "I will be the greatest President ever if I can make peace in the Middle East". We could shorten that to the acronym "IWBTGPEIICMPITME"! No that won't work, it sounds like something out of ancient Sandskrit. I know let's make the acronym a simple "IKICBDBIHNRMBL" (I know it can be done but I have not read my Bible lately). Whoops, far too long. How about "JETA" (Just explain the advantages). OK, finally we have it. The JETA syndrome!
Of course the US president is not the only one suffering from JETA! Let's see, we have the Germans, the French, the English, several other NATO countries, The United Nations Security Council and oh that's right, lets not forget the Palestinians! JETA is spreading. Unfortunately not one single leader among them has read their Bibles either. My Bible tells me (Daniel chapter 9) that there is one and only one man in the entire world who will eventually bring peace to the Middle East. Of course we don't know his name yet. Maybe we do after all. That's right now I remember his name is "antichrist"!
Have you seen the new WONDER WOMAN movie yet? Boy oh boy don't you love all these super heroes? Superman, spiderman, Batman, Wonder Woman. Oh and Tony Stark, AKA Ironman? Dude!
The list of the past US Presidents all the way back to George Herbert Walker Bush includes 29 continual years of Biblical blunder from 5 Presidents all of whom claimed to be Christians but who obviously were trying to be "Captain America". Without reading the Bible. How do I know that? Because the Bible is filled with warnings directly from God and He makes it crystal clear what will happen to nations who divide up His land.
Then on the super evil side is the infamous "antichrist"! Arch villain and sworn enemy of mankind, not to mention sworn enemy of THE CHRIST! The real Christ. Son of God, Messiah of Israel? I would be in such depression over recent news reports except for one thing. I have read the back of the book. As in "the BIBLE" which tells me that not only will NO President ever bring about true peace or most probably not even a a two state solution in the Middle East but neither will anyone else until the REAL evil one is let loose on planet earth.
Who could we compare antichrist to? How about the big green guy, "the Hulk"? Or a new ultra evil "Transformer" boss? Maybe he is next in line---stay tuned for another movie. You know they kind of fit the antichrist image in ways. Cagy little dude who when ticked off becomes a giant green guy of ultimate destruction, who cannot be reasoned with. Or some 65' Volkswagen turning itself into one humongous mechanical beast with an extremely bad attitude and "take over the world agenda".
How does that fit with the future antichrist you say? Well, some of the super heroes turn from one thing to something quit different in the blink of an eye. So too will the future antichrist! Since this is not intended to be a Bible study, I will give you reference so you can look it up for yourself. You can read all about the antichrist in the Books of Daniel and Revelation with brief mention in Thessalonians chapter 2 verse 8. Basically at some point in the future someone will begin to dominate news cycles and he will be extremely charismatic and seem like a good guy coming on the proverbial ole white horse, with an agenda to make peace between Israel and her neighbors. There is understandably all kinds of opinion and argument "out there" in the world of theology but many believe this guy is a throw back to the old Roman Empire and might even be a Jew himself. That is only opinion and although worthy of note to say the least, the Bible does not specifically say that so I don't teach it.
On the other hand it is a very large stretch for me to believe that anyone but a Jew could ever convince Israel to give up her weapons in exchange for peace. How and why do I think that would happen ? Ezekiel chapters 38-39 speak of a huge war someday that will be waged against Israel and it describes Israel at that time of (all of Israel) dwelling in safety---in a land of unwalled villages, a peaceful people having neither bars nor gates. Have you ever been to an Israeli city? Nearly every single house is guarded by walls, bars and gates. Something very big has to happen to change all that and I personally don't think either the Rabbis or the Israeli Government would ever allow security changes that severe unless they thought it was being arranged by their long awaited Messiah. And so who exactly is the "antichrist"? The exact antithesis of the true Christ, the Messiah of Israel. Hello!
Bottom line is that he "confirms a covenant (peace deal?) with many for one week. Daniel goes on to explain all kinds of interesting stuff about Israel in the end times and it is clear that this "covenant "is for 7 years. It may well allow Israel to build the third Temple but then this seemingly good guy goes completely ballistic when he is taken over spiritually by satan himself 3 1/2 years into the original 7 year contract. He goes from ultimate good guy impersonating Messiah, to satan incarnate.
NOTE: I am one of only a few theologians in this world who do NOT believe that the current Dome of the Rock is built over the exact location of the first and second Jewish Temples location for the Holy of Holies. If that is true, there will be no necessity for the Dome to be torn down in order to build the third Temple. The two, under such a peace deal could coexist which would mean the Dome of the Rock is actually located in what would have been the court of the gentiles. I know, I know, call me crazy but maybe you should at least examine this possibility because I can never imagine ANYONE---charismatic antichrist or not, talking the Arab, Muslim world into tearing down their third most holy site for the sake of peace with anyone, let alone the dreaded enemy, Israel. But that's a subject for another day.
So the drum beat continues. Peace at any cost including a rapidly growing worldwide chorus of people and nations demanding that Israel give up land for peace including 1/2 of her ancient holy city and capital, Jerusalem. NO peace deal is worth that since the God of Abraham , Isaac and Jacob (Israel) placed all that land and more in the custody of Israel and even she does not have a right to cede it to anyone else because in reality it belongs to God!
This week in the news, the organization Fatah has reportedly worked out a deal with Hamas which includes Hamas ceding authority and de-militarizing which would include giving up weapons that have historically used against Israel. RIGHT!!!~ So if you believe that can I sell you a bridge to no where? Then of course Iran says it is in fact keeping the deal President Obama made with them to stop their program of production toward nuclear weapons capability. But they refuse to allow the slightest inspections to confirm the fact. Do they actually believe we are all "daft"?
North Korea continues to beat the war drums and have demonstrated that they do in fact have long range ballistic missiles and nukes plus have threatened to use those nukes on the USA, Japan and Israel? More great news!
Russia and China publicly "make nice" about problems in Syria, North Korea, The North China Sea and other topics. Does anyone actually believe either of them?
Going back to Hamas and the new Cairo accords reached this week with the P.A (Fatah). They promise not to attack any more Jews in the West Bank as part of the "NEW PALESTINE" peace deal? That is nothing more than political speak for "when Israel is wiped out completely we will then have our NEW PALESTINE. PLEEEEASE!
On other fronts, Hezbollah is stating it's determination to maintain the ability to attack America in addition to Israel. Yet another gift wrapped present. The gift wrapping paper made of lies and empty promises. The ribbon made of innocent blood.
And the pressure is growing daily from many Jews and also many Christians for Israel to begin construction of the third Temple. You can imagine how well that is being received within the Arab, Persian, Turkish Muslim world. NOT!
Did you see that both Israel and the USA have dropped out of UNESCO this week? That's UNESCO as in "United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural organization. Well, it's about time!
And into all of this daily escalation steps a new US President who has clearly fallen pray to the "JETA" syndrome. Just like all of his predecessors, who each and everyone thought they could do the impossible. Without the antichrist on the scene (which I personally do not think he is yet), there will only be failure upon failure to achieve lasting Middle East peace. Well, that is IF you think that peace for only 3 1/2 years is LASTING?
Yes, indeed, the Middle East is a very dangerous neighborhood. Stat tuned friends because it will only become worse from now on.
Please remember the admonition in Psalm 122:6 "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you".
God bless and see you next week,
Pastor Rance.
I sincerely hope you are all doing well today and are enjoying your salvation. Speaking of salvation, can you believe that it all came about through the sacrifice of one man? Makes me wonder if I would do what Jesus did for a bunch of total strangers. How about you? But hey, what counts is that we are about our Fathers business, keeping Jesus commands and doing everything we can to help those around us.
I want to talk to you today about one of my favorite subjects, ISRAEL. Before I do, a great big "shout out" to all of you who are following my blogs and sharing them with your friends and neighbors. The Lord just blessed me with a new reader in Malta which means now that folks in nearly 50 countries are tuning in. Once someone from a new country locks on the upward spiral slowly begins. There are now many readers in some countries and a few in others but that is the way it goes when writing on the Internet. I now have over 130 lengthy articles on the net and am pleased when I see folks looking up articles that I wrote 2-3 years ago plus of course the new weekly editions. Thank you one and all.
As usual a week cannot go by without Israel making news in some way. Generally speaking, negative news because few news sources are positive about Israel in the slightest way. Too bad to because the God of the Bible is extremely firm on what will happen to ANY enemies of Israel. So, New York Times or Bible? Take your pick because in few cases you cannot agree with both.
Let's take the new US President for example. Setting aside all the personality stuff, I think he will actually get around to moving the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem one day but not anytime soon. For now in the face of extreme problems with both Iran and North Korea, the USA needs all the help it can get from Arab nation partners in the Middle East and the day the Embassy moves is the day that help will disappear. So, for now as only 1 vote, I can give President Trump a pass on this issue. But not forever. I wrote a letter to President George Bush years ago and told him in no uncertain terms that I was dropping out of his party permanently because he violated his word to move the Embassy. I actually received a letter back. A form letter but better than nothing---at least some overworked secretary responded. The fact remains that I have been an independent ever since. As a Christian and an avid supporter of Israel, this issue is vital to me.
I have come to believe that once having sat in the big Oval Office chair, something happens to these guys---new Presidents. An invisible source/power reaches up and grabs them. The name of the source is "I will be the greatest President ever if I can make peace in the Middle East". We could shorten that to the acronym "IWBTGPEIICMPITME"! No that won't work, it sounds like something out of ancient Sandskrit. I know let's make the acronym a simple "IKICBDBIHNRMBL" (I know it can be done but I have not read my Bible lately). Whoops, far too long. How about "JETA" (Just explain the advantages). OK, finally we have it. The JETA syndrome!
Of course the US president is not the only one suffering from JETA! Let's see, we have the Germans, the French, the English, several other NATO countries, The United Nations Security Council and oh that's right, lets not forget the Palestinians! JETA is spreading. Unfortunately not one single leader among them has read their Bibles either. My Bible tells me (Daniel chapter 9) that there is one and only one man in the entire world who will eventually bring peace to the Middle East. Of course we don't know his name yet. Maybe we do after all. That's right now I remember his name is "antichrist"!
Have you seen the new WONDER WOMAN movie yet? Boy oh boy don't you love all these super heroes? Superman, spiderman, Batman, Wonder Woman. Oh and Tony Stark, AKA Ironman? Dude!
The list of the past US Presidents all the way back to George Herbert Walker Bush includes 29 continual years of Biblical blunder from 5 Presidents all of whom claimed to be Christians but who obviously were trying to be "Captain America". Without reading the Bible. How do I know that? Because the Bible is filled with warnings directly from God and He makes it crystal clear what will happen to nations who divide up His land.
Then on the super evil side is the infamous "antichrist"! Arch villain and sworn enemy of mankind, not to mention sworn enemy of THE CHRIST! The real Christ. Son of God, Messiah of Israel? I would be in such depression over recent news reports except for one thing. I have read the back of the book. As in "the BIBLE" which tells me that not only will NO President ever bring about true peace or most probably not even a a two state solution in the Middle East but neither will anyone else until the REAL evil one is let loose on planet earth.
Who could we compare antichrist to? How about the big green guy, "the Hulk"? Or a new ultra evil "Transformer" boss? Maybe he is next in line---stay tuned for another movie. You know they kind of fit the antichrist image in ways. Cagy little dude who when ticked off becomes a giant green guy of ultimate destruction, who cannot be reasoned with. Or some 65' Volkswagen turning itself into one humongous mechanical beast with an extremely bad attitude and "take over the world agenda".
How does that fit with the future antichrist you say? Well, some of the super heroes turn from one thing to something quit different in the blink of an eye. So too will the future antichrist! Since this is not intended to be a Bible study, I will give you reference so you can look it up for yourself. You can read all about the antichrist in the Books of Daniel and Revelation with brief mention in Thessalonians chapter 2 verse 8. Basically at some point in the future someone will begin to dominate news cycles and he will be extremely charismatic and seem like a good guy coming on the proverbial ole white horse, with an agenda to make peace between Israel and her neighbors. There is understandably all kinds of opinion and argument "out there" in the world of theology but many believe this guy is a throw back to the old Roman Empire and might even be a Jew himself. That is only opinion and although worthy of note to say the least, the Bible does not specifically say that so I don't teach it.
On the other hand it is a very large stretch for me to believe that anyone but a Jew could ever convince Israel to give up her weapons in exchange for peace. How and why do I think that would happen ? Ezekiel chapters 38-39 speak of a huge war someday that will be waged against Israel and it describes Israel at that time of (all of Israel) dwelling in safety---in a land of unwalled villages, a peaceful people having neither bars nor gates. Have you ever been to an Israeli city? Nearly every single house is guarded by walls, bars and gates. Something very big has to happen to change all that and I personally don't think either the Rabbis or the Israeli Government would ever allow security changes that severe unless they thought it was being arranged by their long awaited Messiah. And so who exactly is the "antichrist"? The exact antithesis of the true Christ, the Messiah of Israel. Hello!
Bottom line is that he "confirms a covenant (peace deal?) with many for one week. Daniel goes on to explain all kinds of interesting stuff about Israel in the end times and it is clear that this "covenant "is for 7 years. It may well allow Israel to build the third Temple but then this seemingly good guy goes completely ballistic when he is taken over spiritually by satan himself 3 1/2 years into the original 7 year contract. He goes from ultimate good guy impersonating Messiah, to satan incarnate.
NOTE: I am one of only a few theologians in this world who do NOT believe that the current Dome of the Rock is built over the exact location of the first and second Jewish Temples location for the Holy of Holies. If that is true, there will be no necessity for the Dome to be torn down in order to build the third Temple. The two, under such a peace deal could coexist which would mean the Dome of the Rock is actually located in what would have been the court of the gentiles. I know, I know, call me crazy but maybe you should at least examine this possibility because I can never imagine ANYONE---charismatic antichrist or not, talking the Arab, Muslim world into tearing down their third most holy site for the sake of peace with anyone, let alone the dreaded enemy, Israel. But that's a subject for another day.
So the drum beat continues. Peace at any cost including a rapidly growing worldwide chorus of people and nations demanding that Israel give up land for peace including 1/2 of her ancient holy city and capital, Jerusalem. NO peace deal is worth that since the God of Abraham , Isaac and Jacob (Israel) placed all that land and more in the custody of Israel and even she does not have a right to cede it to anyone else because in reality it belongs to God!
This week in the news, the organization Fatah has reportedly worked out a deal with Hamas which includes Hamas ceding authority and de-militarizing which would include giving up weapons that have historically used against Israel. RIGHT!!!~ So if you believe that can I sell you a bridge to no where? Then of course Iran says it is in fact keeping the deal President Obama made with them to stop their program of production toward nuclear weapons capability. But they refuse to allow the slightest inspections to confirm the fact. Do they actually believe we are all "daft"?
North Korea continues to beat the war drums and have demonstrated that they do in fact have long range ballistic missiles and nukes plus have threatened to use those nukes on the USA, Japan and Israel? More great news!
Russia and China publicly "make nice" about problems in Syria, North Korea, The North China Sea and other topics. Does anyone actually believe either of them?
Going back to Hamas and the new Cairo accords reached this week with the P.A (Fatah). They promise not to attack any more Jews in the West Bank as part of the "NEW PALESTINE" peace deal? That is nothing more than political speak for "when Israel is wiped out completely we will then have our NEW PALESTINE. PLEEEEASE!
On other fronts, Hezbollah is stating it's determination to maintain the ability to attack America in addition to Israel. Yet another gift wrapped present. The gift wrapping paper made of lies and empty promises. The ribbon made of innocent blood.
And the pressure is growing daily from many Jews and also many Christians for Israel to begin construction of the third Temple. You can imagine how well that is being received within the Arab, Persian, Turkish Muslim world. NOT!
Did you see that both Israel and the USA have dropped out of UNESCO this week? That's UNESCO as in "United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural organization. Well, it's about time!
And into all of this daily escalation steps a new US President who has clearly fallen pray to the "JETA" syndrome. Just like all of his predecessors, who each and everyone thought they could do the impossible. Without the antichrist on the scene (which I personally do not think he is yet), there will only be failure upon failure to achieve lasting Middle East peace. Well, that is IF you think that peace for only 3 1/2 years is LASTING?
Yes, indeed, the Middle East is a very dangerous neighborhood. Stat tuned friends because it will only become worse from now on.
Please remember the admonition in Psalm 122:6 "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you".
God bless and see you next week,
Pastor Rance.
Tuesday, October 3, 2017
ISRAEL, what is it really like?
Dear friends and readers,
Thought I would take a few moments today and share my heart with you about what being in Israel is really like. In a world gone completely nuts, Israel is actually a very peaceful place to be. Yes, there are terror attacks and political intrigue at an unprecedented level. But, for many (dare I say most) Christians to set foot on Israeli soil for the first time is an unforgettable experience leaving hunger for more.
We had dinner a few nights ago with a man by the name of Gerald and a couple of his friends. Gerald put the feeling of being in Israel in the old proverbial "nutshell". When he returned, he told his church family that his bible had just gone from black and white to "technicolor"! How graphic, I could not have said it better myself.
Have you ever been on a long vacation---a fun one---but when you finally arrived home and stepped through your front door, you had that moment of sigh and the feeling that it was SO good to be home? After all, the age old sentiment that "theres no place like home" is pretty well universal for most of mankind.
Without the slightest prompting, I cannot tell you how many people have had that distinct feeling of "coming home" when they first stepped foot on the tarmac at Tel Aviv airport.
Brandy and I have had the pleasure to lead a few groups to Israel---church groups one and all. These were teaching tours and to be a group host in Israel is 24-7. Someone always has a headache, an argument with a spouse, tired and grumpy, Ladies forgetting that it is "just a potty break" and rather than getting back on the bus, find themselves snared by yet another shopping line (-: And a plethora of other maladies that strike mankind on long trips away from home. On the flip side of that is the absolute pleasure of sharing with folks, the joy they feel at being in a place like no other. Literally the most beautiful and fascinating place on the globe. Now when I say "beautiful" I am not speaking esthetically because in all honestly with few exceptions Israel could never compare to the beauty and grandeur of Yosemite, the Grand Tetons or Lake Tahoe.
No, Israel is not so much physically beautiful as it is a place of "unforgettable experience". What it lacks in esthetics is more, far more made up for in Biblical history and ancient grandeur that leaves one in a sort of etherial shock that takes months to sort thorough after a visit. I tell each tour group that after day three of the tour you will have seen and experienced so much, you will have trouble remembering day 1.
Then there are the preconceived ideas that most folks seem to experience before a trip. I remember when leaving on a missions trip to Malaysia and India, Brandy and I pictured Kuala Lumpur as a smoky little jungle town surrounded by jungle and infested with monkeys. When we arrived we stepped into a humongous modern airport in a city with multiple story shopping malls and (at the time) the tallest building on planet earth. But guess what? When we arrived at our guest housing there was in fact a monkey sitting on the back fence.
On our first trip to Israel, we were guests on someone else's tour. We had heard that tour groups by law must have a qualified Israeli tour guide. Even with lot's of travel under our belts, we pictured our tour guide as wearing a long robe (obviously hiding a curved dagger), a turban, drooping mustache, patch on one eye and a monkey on his shoulder. Another wrong assumption! What we discovered over the years are a cadre of extremely well educated men and women who are one very small step below archeologists, all with college degrees and great levels of humor mixed with the kind of knowledge that would be the envy of anyone seeking higher education.
Ah, Israel. That first trip was back in the day when cameras required rolled film. I remember well that I had an extra bag along containing 60 roles of film and exhausted every one of them long before the tour had ended. The plan was to rush home and have them all developed. That was many years ago and today, somewhere out in storage are 60 roles of undeveloped film. No need because Israel is a place that literally burns it's own landscape, ancient culture and locations deeply into your permanent memory.
Why?
Well for starters, we as Americans think it great because we have buildings in Washington D.C. and Philadelphia that are over 250 years old. Israel has buildings that date back well over 3000 years and in fact a recent article claims an archeological team outside Jerusalem may have uncovered the remains of a house nearly 10,000 years old. No matter where you look in Israel, it is either ancient or built on ancient ruins. Lot's of people go to the Holy Land to see the antiquities, and admittedly they are fascinating. But the most fascinating part are not the ancient dead stones but rather the current living stones represented by the only civilization in the entire history of the world that has been repeatedly trashed and thrown onto the scrap heap of history, only to come back again and again and ad-infinitum!
The sights, sounds and visuals of a culture and land that has been trodden down by thousands of generations of people, both Jewish and conquerors, is simply something that defies adequate explanation. The City of Jerusalem for example. It could never qualify as a modern city the like of which can be seen in New York City, Moscow, London, Paris or yes even Kuala Lumpur. And yet it is the most valuable real estate on earth. Fought over generation after generation, lived in, died in, tortured in. Conquered, re-conquered but always returned eventually to Jewish control. The reason for that is simple: The Jewish people were chosen by God over 3000 years ago as His own special people and Jerusalem according to the Bible in 4 different verses including Zechariah 2:8 is the APPLE OF GODS EYE! Daniel 9:19 states clearly that both God's people (the Jews) and the City (Jerusalem) are called by His Name. Jerusalem is mention in the Bible 800 times. Today it is the mostly hotly contested city on earth by everyone from Arab nations, Persian, Turkish, Eastern European, to the United Nations and of course the actual eternal, legal owners of Jerusalem, the Jewish people.
To walk the old city streets of Jerusalem is an experience beyond all others. It is actually possible (in a few spots) in Israel to step on the exact stones tread upon by Jesus Christ. The Sea of Galilee, Tiberius and surrounding country side will leave a permanent lump in your throat. Too climb the Arbel and look past Galilee and over the Golan Heights into Syria in the extreme distance is breath taking. To ascend the mountain fortress of Herod the Great (Masada) and step where 960 Jews gave their lives in a suicide pact rather than submit to the Roman Army is heart wrenching. But also brings a level of permanent reality as with one slight turn of the head you can see at the bottom of the mountain the exact foundation stones of the Roman Army barracks while also seeing the proud Israeli flag still flying, proclaiming that never again will Israel be overrun by conquering armies.
But not all is that ancient. Israel has been fighting once again for it's very existence since the day it proclaimed statehood of May 14, 1948. We came across something that most tour groups sadly ignore. Outside Jerusalem some distance away is the AYALON INSTITUTE of REHOVOT. Circa 1945 through 1948 the "HAGANA" (Part of the Israeli military of the time) established a top secret ammunition factory below (literally underground) a laundry facility right under the noses of the British army. During these years, over 2.25 million bullets were made for the 9 mm Sten sub machine gun used by the Israelis coming into the war of Independence. To visit this remarkable place is a memory all unto itself.
I could literally write pages more and not scratch the surface of what is represented in Israel from the Hall of Independence in Tel Aviv to Caesarea and on up to Caesarea Philippi in the north and Eilat in the south. We have been to the majestic ancient city of Petra in Jordan and stood upon the very top of Mount Nebo where Moses overlooked the promised land.
Folks, if you have never been to Israel, do yourselves a favor. Save up, start your planning. Take the plunge because I guarantee that your Bible reading time will never again be the same. When you return you will open your Bible and picture yourself standing in the very spot written about.
Ah, Israel. According the scripture, the place that all followers of Christ, both Jew and gentile will spend all of eternity. The NEW CITY OF JERUSALEM. Revelation chapter 21:2 and Ezekiel chapter 40. I urge you to go now and see what the ages have preserved. Experience Jerusalem now to get an idea of where you will live forever more.
God bless you all,
Pastor Rance.
Thought I would take a few moments today and share my heart with you about what being in Israel is really like. In a world gone completely nuts, Israel is actually a very peaceful place to be. Yes, there are terror attacks and political intrigue at an unprecedented level. But, for many (dare I say most) Christians to set foot on Israeli soil for the first time is an unforgettable experience leaving hunger for more.
We had dinner a few nights ago with a man by the name of Gerald and a couple of his friends. Gerald put the feeling of being in Israel in the old proverbial "nutshell". When he returned, he told his church family that his bible had just gone from black and white to "technicolor"! How graphic, I could not have said it better myself.
Have you ever been on a long vacation---a fun one---but when you finally arrived home and stepped through your front door, you had that moment of sigh and the feeling that it was SO good to be home? After all, the age old sentiment that "theres no place like home" is pretty well universal for most of mankind.
Without the slightest prompting, I cannot tell you how many people have had that distinct feeling of "coming home" when they first stepped foot on the tarmac at Tel Aviv airport.
Brandy and I have had the pleasure to lead a few groups to Israel---church groups one and all. These were teaching tours and to be a group host in Israel is 24-7. Someone always has a headache, an argument with a spouse, tired and grumpy, Ladies forgetting that it is "just a potty break" and rather than getting back on the bus, find themselves snared by yet another shopping line (-: And a plethora of other maladies that strike mankind on long trips away from home. On the flip side of that is the absolute pleasure of sharing with folks, the joy they feel at being in a place like no other. Literally the most beautiful and fascinating place on the globe. Now when I say "beautiful" I am not speaking esthetically because in all honestly with few exceptions Israel could never compare to the beauty and grandeur of Yosemite, the Grand Tetons or Lake Tahoe.
No, Israel is not so much physically beautiful as it is a place of "unforgettable experience". What it lacks in esthetics is more, far more made up for in Biblical history and ancient grandeur that leaves one in a sort of etherial shock that takes months to sort thorough after a visit. I tell each tour group that after day three of the tour you will have seen and experienced so much, you will have trouble remembering day 1.
Then there are the preconceived ideas that most folks seem to experience before a trip. I remember when leaving on a missions trip to Malaysia and India, Brandy and I pictured Kuala Lumpur as a smoky little jungle town surrounded by jungle and infested with monkeys. When we arrived we stepped into a humongous modern airport in a city with multiple story shopping malls and (at the time) the tallest building on planet earth. But guess what? When we arrived at our guest housing there was in fact a monkey sitting on the back fence.
On our first trip to Israel, we were guests on someone else's tour. We had heard that tour groups by law must have a qualified Israeli tour guide. Even with lot's of travel under our belts, we pictured our tour guide as wearing a long robe (obviously hiding a curved dagger), a turban, drooping mustache, patch on one eye and a monkey on his shoulder. Another wrong assumption! What we discovered over the years are a cadre of extremely well educated men and women who are one very small step below archeologists, all with college degrees and great levels of humor mixed with the kind of knowledge that would be the envy of anyone seeking higher education.
Ah, Israel. That first trip was back in the day when cameras required rolled film. I remember well that I had an extra bag along containing 60 roles of film and exhausted every one of them long before the tour had ended. The plan was to rush home and have them all developed. That was many years ago and today, somewhere out in storage are 60 roles of undeveloped film. No need because Israel is a place that literally burns it's own landscape, ancient culture and locations deeply into your permanent memory.
Why?
Well for starters, we as Americans think it great because we have buildings in Washington D.C. and Philadelphia that are over 250 years old. Israel has buildings that date back well over 3000 years and in fact a recent article claims an archeological team outside Jerusalem may have uncovered the remains of a house nearly 10,000 years old. No matter where you look in Israel, it is either ancient or built on ancient ruins. Lot's of people go to the Holy Land to see the antiquities, and admittedly they are fascinating. But the most fascinating part are not the ancient dead stones but rather the current living stones represented by the only civilization in the entire history of the world that has been repeatedly trashed and thrown onto the scrap heap of history, only to come back again and again and ad-infinitum!
The sights, sounds and visuals of a culture and land that has been trodden down by thousands of generations of people, both Jewish and conquerors, is simply something that defies adequate explanation. The City of Jerusalem for example. It could never qualify as a modern city the like of which can be seen in New York City, Moscow, London, Paris or yes even Kuala Lumpur. And yet it is the most valuable real estate on earth. Fought over generation after generation, lived in, died in, tortured in. Conquered, re-conquered but always returned eventually to Jewish control. The reason for that is simple: The Jewish people were chosen by God over 3000 years ago as His own special people and Jerusalem according to the Bible in 4 different verses including Zechariah 2:8 is the APPLE OF GODS EYE! Daniel 9:19 states clearly that both God's people (the Jews) and the City (Jerusalem) are called by His Name. Jerusalem is mention in the Bible 800 times. Today it is the mostly hotly contested city on earth by everyone from Arab nations, Persian, Turkish, Eastern European, to the United Nations and of course the actual eternal, legal owners of Jerusalem, the Jewish people.
To walk the old city streets of Jerusalem is an experience beyond all others. It is actually possible (in a few spots) in Israel to step on the exact stones tread upon by Jesus Christ. The Sea of Galilee, Tiberius and surrounding country side will leave a permanent lump in your throat. Too climb the Arbel and look past Galilee and over the Golan Heights into Syria in the extreme distance is breath taking. To ascend the mountain fortress of Herod the Great (Masada) and step where 960 Jews gave their lives in a suicide pact rather than submit to the Roman Army is heart wrenching. But also brings a level of permanent reality as with one slight turn of the head you can see at the bottom of the mountain the exact foundation stones of the Roman Army barracks while also seeing the proud Israeli flag still flying, proclaiming that never again will Israel be overrun by conquering armies.
But not all is that ancient. Israel has been fighting once again for it's very existence since the day it proclaimed statehood of May 14, 1948. We came across something that most tour groups sadly ignore. Outside Jerusalem some distance away is the AYALON INSTITUTE of REHOVOT. Circa 1945 through 1948 the "HAGANA" (Part of the Israeli military of the time) established a top secret ammunition factory below (literally underground) a laundry facility right under the noses of the British army. During these years, over 2.25 million bullets were made for the 9 mm Sten sub machine gun used by the Israelis coming into the war of Independence. To visit this remarkable place is a memory all unto itself.
I could literally write pages more and not scratch the surface of what is represented in Israel from the Hall of Independence in Tel Aviv to Caesarea and on up to Caesarea Philippi in the north and Eilat in the south. We have been to the majestic ancient city of Petra in Jordan and stood upon the very top of Mount Nebo where Moses overlooked the promised land.
Folks, if you have never been to Israel, do yourselves a favor. Save up, start your planning. Take the plunge because I guarantee that your Bible reading time will never again be the same. When you return you will open your Bible and picture yourself standing in the very spot written about.
Ah, Israel. According the scripture, the place that all followers of Christ, both Jew and gentile will spend all of eternity. The NEW CITY OF JERUSALEM. Revelation chapter 21:2 and Ezekiel chapter 40. I urge you to go now and see what the ages have preserved. Experience Jerusalem now to get an idea of where you will live forever more.
God bless you all,
Pastor Rance.
Monday, September 25, 2017
Is the pen really mightier than the sword? Prejudice and Israel 101
Dear friends and readers,
I cannot tell you how many times in my life I have heard the expression "the pen is mightier than the sword". But that was yesterday. It was when people actually read books, newspapers and editorials. Yes I know, perhaps YOU still do that but most folks these days get their worldwide news from social media snippets. I am appalled when I see so many people interviewed on T.V. and cannot recognize the picture of George Washington, even though they use one dollar bills every day of their lives. When so many people want to rip down a statue of General Robert E. Lee and have no clue that the gentleman was preeminent in trying to rid the southern states of slavery. I am appalled when people pay other people to show up at political rallies and many of the people paid have zero knowledge of what exactly they are paid to protest.
Republicans have become the frozen chosen (at least until the next election cycle), Democrats are screaming racial prejudice and yet the history books paint an entirely different picture in that nearly all slave holders coming into the Civil War were---ah let me think for a moment, oh yes now I remember, they were Democrats. Black civil rights leaders are doing nothing for their people but stirring up racial hatred and raking in millions for speeches and book deals. But guess what? "Whitey" gets the blame but no one seems to recall that it was African kings and large tribes raiding smaller kingdoms and tribes, taking slaves by the thousands who actually sold those very slaves to the Portuguese slave masters (and yes many slavers from other nations as well). No one seems to recall that the British "whitey" passed the slave trade act in 1807 and spent millions trying to stamp it out. No one seems to remember that Abraham Lincoln was a Republican who took an entire nation to war to stamp out slavery and hold southern Democratic slave holders accountable.
No one seems to care that athletes making MILLIONS UPON MILLIONS of dollars while enjoying the American dream, refuse to honor our flag or stand for a national anthem that is the standard of freedom for most of the known world. I don't know about you but that smacks of political agenda and rings hollow in my ears. I don't normally write anything about politics and in my mind this article is not political either. What it is, is an outcry against power hungry political hacks who do everything possible to keep great nations on the verge of anarchy so they can line their pockets and vi for elected positions that they can then use to milk the system until retirement while in the meanwhile padding fat bank accounts.
Slavery is wrong in no uncertain terms but rewriting the history books does not make the problem go away. And why are not more voices raised from every ethnicity in the world because slavery still exists today and is thriving? Including sex slaves among children, Christian women and young girls raped in the thousands and sold off as prostitutes? Not to mention an untold number of other cultures who's women are suffering the same life ruining indignity. How is it that we have active partnerships with nations who give zero rights to women and force their daughters to have genital mutilation? Estimates are that 21 MILLION people are enslaved today worldwide and produces 150 BILLION dollars in elicit profits annually. Where are the outraged voices? Why are todays civil rights leaders harping on events of 150 years ago instead of using their collective power, money and influence to stomp out slavery today?
On another front, I am absolutely irate because so many people hate Israel and have swallowed political speak based on zero substantial evidence. When the evidence that does exist in massive mountains of books, papers and journals, evidence that supports Israel's right to exist and it's Biblical right to posses the land given to them by God, is flatly ignored as though it does not exist at all. I am insulted beyond words when I see social misfits ripping, tearing and urinating on both the United Stated flag and that of Israel. Then stomping Police cars, breaking windows and stealing from middle class shop owners who can barely make ends meet on a good day. Sorry folks but those animals should be thrown behind bars and defacing any countries flag should be legally exempted from the right of free speech!
Worldwide things are terrible. We now have to look closely for snippets of good news. We should not be surprised I suppose because the premier authority in the world (the Holy Bible) says all these things will happen. But then only committed Christians and Jews believe in the Bible anymore and speaking of our Jewish brethren; Where are the voices condemning antisemitism, a large portion of which is being practiced by some Christian denominations who adhere to the absolutely unbiblical doctrine of replacement theology?
Why are radical Muslims allowed to rape women in public in some European countries? Why are there "no go zones" in which even the police are afraid to tread? Why are there not more raised voices among decent peace loving Muslims who will not condemn those who are hell bent of portraying their religion as violent and hateful?
The world is racing toward Armageddon at an unprecedented, accelerated rate and many humans on this planet are like ostriches with their heads stuck in the sand (although to be honest some people say ostriches do not participate in that practice) but for my purposes it demonstrates a truth that is difficult to ignore.
No, the pen is no longer mightier than the sword, in fact people like myself who would like to write edifying articles now have a difficult time keeping up with all the daily bad news in nearly every corner of the world. No pen is mightier than Kim Jung Un's nuclear arsenal. Do I sound frustrated?
With good reason. Of course for me (a committed supporter of Israel) the outrage I feel daily because of the lies told by and through various media outlets regarding Israel is simply beyond the pale. In fact I have realized that the various problems we are seeing in the world are not really THE problem but merely a symptom of mankind's depravity. And yes there are still good people in this world but because of P.C. (political correctness) they are in most part afraid to speak up.
Case in point. My wife and I have been blessed to travel to Israel 9 times. No big deal considering I met a woman one time who had been there over 300 times. I could only wish! But do you know what? I realized some truths during my various trips. Truth # 1. A Jew born in Israel is called a Sabra. A rough definition of that term is "a prickly pear". Initially I asked myself why so many Jews were so curt and unfriendly. Over time I realized that it is because seemingly everyone in the world hates them. Generation after generation of Jews have been persecuted, often to death (an example is the holocaust of WWII). In many cases trust for Christians is the number 1 most difficult thing for them to achieve. Why? After all many of us love Israel and want to stand with her no matter what. But did you know that Adolf Hitler claimed to be a Christian and was named as head of the church during his reign of terror? Of course he had purged nearly all true pastors by that time and had for the sake of P.R. appointed his own church officials. But that is what many Jewish people remember as Christianity. Over the centuries the Jewish people have had great reason not to trust people wearing crosses, some of them 2 feet tall, crimson red and stenciled onto the fronts of their shields and armor.
But, when those Sabra's got to know us, really know us and knew that we really did love Israel, those prickly pears became the sweetest people and truest friends we have ever known. #2 Now for a shocker! During our times in both Israel and Jordan, we were able to have long conversations with several Muslim and Arab people plus some Bedouins. My opinion only, but leaving out political leaders, journalists in general, and people who want to write books for the sake of fame, money and personal prejudice, very many Jews and Arabs have no problem getting along and with some exceptions did so for centuries. In fact, privately (VERY VERY PRIVATELY) I have been told on several occasions by some very nice Arab and Muslim folks that they much prefer to live under Israeli sovereignty than anywhere that either Fatah or Hamas rules. The reason stated was that they are respected in Israel, can educate their children without political intrigue and brain washing, enjoy an occupation or become a business owner, have good health care, walk the beaches as any other person and are proud to be an Israeli citizen. I'm sure there are exceptions to that but these people simply cannot speak out publicly because if they do, their relatives and friends in the East Bank or Gaza will be persecuted or killed.
The problem as I see it is not a difference in religious belief although as you know I am a committed Christian and hope eventually everyone else will be as well. No, the problem is politics, money, greed and power struggles on the part of social and national leadership at the expense of people on both sides of this issue who would simply like to put all that hatred aside and live out their lives in peace and security regardless of who their neighbors might be. But then the same could be said for America as well. Left to their own devices, apart from political agenda, people of differing colors and cultural background generally get along pretty well. An example of that can be seen in the military. With few exceptions when men of different color are in the same uniform in the same foxhole, no one cares about political agendas. They care about staying alive and in order to do so they must care for each other. Bonds and friendships develop in those kinds of situations that transcend whatever may have happened 152 years ago in the American Civil War. By the way did you know that by the end of that dreaded war, 10% of the entire Union army was black? The 54th Regiment of Massachusetts was entirely black and an awesome fighting machine. There were 179,000 black Union Army soldiers with 80 commissioned officers and 16 black soldiers earned the Medal of Honor. So, here we are 152 years later and still fighting that war today? POLITICS! MONEY and GREED. Pure and simple.
But back to Israel, the apple of God's eye. How is it that so many in the church seemingly do not believe what the Bible says about Israel? I have been a pastor for many years and simply cannot explain it. But the good news is that the winds of change are beginning to blow. More and more believers are "getting hot" about Israel and supporting her if in no other way than prayer. More and more are taking trips to the Holy Land. More and more eyes are being opened to the false narrative puked out by so many anti Israel news agencies.
As the old saying goes "You can fool all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all the people all of the time"! The time for fooling anyone about the divine destiny of Israel is thankfully beginning to come to a close. That door will never ever close completely but my friends it is time for the church to rise up with one united voice and say to the world; NEVER AGAIN! Israel belongs to God and we are Christians and we belong to Him also.
We have heard all about the Obama train and now the Trump train. Leaving politics and presidential personalities out of the equation, it is high time for the church worldwide to get on the God train and that means saying NO to prejudice and to P.C. and standing solidly in support of Israel.
God bless,
Pastor Rance.
I cannot tell you how many times in my life I have heard the expression "the pen is mightier than the sword". But that was yesterday. It was when people actually read books, newspapers and editorials. Yes I know, perhaps YOU still do that but most folks these days get their worldwide news from social media snippets. I am appalled when I see so many people interviewed on T.V. and cannot recognize the picture of George Washington, even though they use one dollar bills every day of their lives. When so many people want to rip down a statue of General Robert E. Lee and have no clue that the gentleman was preeminent in trying to rid the southern states of slavery. I am appalled when people pay other people to show up at political rallies and many of the people paid have zero knowledge of what exactly they are paid to protest.
Republicans have become the frozen chosen (at least until the next election cycle), Democrats are screaming racial prejudice and yet the history books paint an entirely different picture in that nearly all slave holders coming into the Civil War were---ah let me think for a moment, oh yes now I remember, they were Democrats. Black civil rights leaders are doing nothing for their people but stirring up racial hatred and raking in millions for speeches and book deals. But guess what? "Whitey" gets the blame but no one seems to recall that it was African kings and large tribes raiding smaller kingdoms and tribes, taking slaves by the thousands who actually sold those very slaves to the Portuguese slave masters (and yes many slavers from other nations as well). No one seems to recall that the British "whitey" passed the slave trade act in 1807 and spent millions trying to stamp it out. No one seems to remember that Abraham Lincoln was a Republican who took an entire nation to war to stamp out slavery and hold southern Democratic slave holders accountable.
No one seems to care that athletes making MILLIONS UPON MILLIONS of dollars while enjoying the American dream, refuse to honor our flag or stand for a national anthem that is the standard of freedom for most of the known world. I don't know about you but that smacks of political agenda and rings hollow in my ears. I don't normally write anything about politics and in my mind this article is not political either. What it is, is an outcry against power hungry political hacks who do everything possible to keep great nations on the verge of anarchy so they can line their pockets and vi for elected positions that they can then use to milk the system until retirement while in the meanwhile padding fat bank accounts.
Slavery is wrong in no uncertain terms but rewriting the history books does not make the problem go away. And why are not more voices raised from every ethnicity in the world because slavery still exists today and is thriving? Including sex slaves among children, Christian women and young girls raped in the thousands and sold off as prostitutes? Not to mention an untold number of other cultures who's women are suffering the same life ruining indignity. How is it that we have active partnerships with nations who give zero rights to women and force their daughters to have genital mutilation? Estimates are that 21 MILLION people are enslaved today worldwide and produces 150 BILLION dollars in elicit profits annually. Where are the outraged voices? Why are todays civil rights leaders harping on events of 150 years ago instead of using their collective power, money and influence to stomp out slavery today?
On another front, I am absolutely irate because so many people hate Israel and have swallowed political speak based on zero substantial evidence. When the evidence that does exist in massive mountains of books, papers and journals, evidence that supports Israel's right to exist and it's Biblical right to posses the land given to them by God, is flatly ignored as though it does not exist at all. I am insulted beyond words when I see social misfits ripping, tearing and urinating on both the United Stated flag and that of Israel. Then stomping Police cars, breaking windows and stealing from middle class shop owners who can barely make ends meet on a good day. Sorry folks but those animals should be thrown behind bars and defacing any countries flag should be legally exempted from the right of free speech!
Worldwide things are terrible. We now have to look closely for snippets of good news. We should not be surprised I suppose because the premier authority in the world (the Holy Bible) says all these things will happen. But then only committed Christians and Jews believe in the Bible anymore and speaking of our Jewish brethren; Where are the voices condemning antisemitism, a large portion of which is being practiced by some Christian denominations who adhere to the absolutely unbiblical doctrine of replacement theology?
Why are radical Muslims allowed to rape women in public in some European countries? Why are there "no go zones" in which even the police are afraid to tread? Why are there not more raised voices among decent peace loving Muslims who will not condemn those who are hell bent of portraying their religion as violent and hateful?
The world is racing toward Armageddon at an unprecedented, accelerated rate and many humans on this planet are like ostriches with their heads stuck in the sand (although to be honest some people say ostriches do not participate in that practice) but for my purposes it demonstrates a truth that is difficult to ignore.
No, the pen is no longer mightier than the sword, in fact people like myself who would like to write edifying articles now have a difficult time keeping up with all the daily bad news in nearly every corner of the world. No pen is mightier than Kim Jung Un's nuclear arsenal. Do I sound frustrated?
With good reason. Of course for me (a committed supporter of Israel) the outrage I feel daily because of the lies told by and through various media outlets regarding Israel is simply beyond the pale. In fact I have realized that the various problems we are seeing in the world are not really THE problem but merely a symptom of mankind's depravity. And yes there are still good people in this world but because of P.C. (political correctness) they are in most part afraid to speak up.
Case in point. My wife and I have been blessed to travel to Israel 9 times. No big deal considering I met a woman one time who had been there over 300 times. I could only wish! But do you know what? I realized some truths during my various trips. Truth # 1. A Jew born in Israel is called a Sabra. A rough definition of that term is "a prickly pear". Initially I asked myself why so many Jews were so curt and unfriendly. Over time I realized that it is because seemingly everyone in the world hates them. Generation after generation of Jews have been persecuted, often to death (an example is the holocaust of WWII). In many cases trust for Christians is the number 1 most difficult thing for them to achieve. Why? After all many of us love Israel and want to stand with her no matter what. But did you know that Adolf Hitler claimed to be a Christian and was named as head of the church during his reign of terror? Of course he had purged nearly all true pastors by that time and had for the sake of P.R. appointed his own church officials. But that is what many Jewish people remember as Christianity. Over the centuries the Jewish people have had great reason not to trust people wearing crosses, some of them 2 feet tall, crimson red and stenciled onto the fronts of their shields and armor.
But, when those Sabra's got to know us, really know us and knew that we really did love Israel, those prickly pears became the sweetest people and truest friends we have ever known. #2 Now for a shocker! During our times in both Israel and Jordan, we were able to have long conversations with several Muslim and Arab people plus some Bedouins. My opinion only, but leaving out political leaders, journalists in general, and people who want to write books for the sake of fame, money and personal prejudice, very many Jews and Arabs have no problem getting along and with some exceptions did so for centuries. In fact, privately (VERY VERY PRIVATELY) I have been told on several occasions by some very nice Arab and Muslim folks that they much prefer to live under Israeli sovereignty than anywhere that either Fatah or Hamas rules. The reason stated was that they are respected in Israel, can educate their children without political intrigue and brain washing, enjoy an occupation or become a business owner, have good health care, walk the beaches as any other person and are proud to be an Israeli citizen. I'm sure there are exceptions to that but these people simply cannot speak out publicly because if they do, their relatives and friends in the East Bank or Gaza will be persecuted or killed.
The problem as I see it is not a difference in religious belief although as you know I am a committed Christian and hope eventually everyone else will be as well. No, the problem is politics, money, greed and power struggles on the part of social and national leadership at the expense of people on both sides of this issue who would simply like to put all that hatred aside and live out their lives in peace and security regardless of who their neighbors might be. But then the same could be said for America as well. Left to their own devices, apart from political agenda, people of differing colors and cultural background generally get along pretty well. An example of that can be seen in the military. With few exceptions when men of different color are in the same uniform in the same foxhole, no one cares about political agendas. They care about staying alive and in order to do so they must care for each other. Bonds and friendships develop in those kinds of situations that transcend whatever may have happened 152 years ago in the American Civil War. By the way did you know that by the end of that dreaded war, 10% of the entire Union army was black? The 54th Regiment of Massachusetts was entirely black and an awesome fighting machine. There were 179,000 black Union Army soldiers with 80 commissioned officers and 16 black soldiers earned the Medal of Honor. So, here we are 152 years later and still fighting that war today? POLITICS! MONEY and GREED. Pure and simple.
But back to Israel, the apple of God's eye. How is it that so many in the church seemingly do not believe what the Bible says about Israel? I have been a pastor for many years and simply cannot explain it. But the good news is that the winds of change are beginning to blow. More and more believers are "getting hot" about Israel and supporting her if in no other way than prayer. More and more are taking trips to the Holy Land. More and more eyes are being opened to the false narrative puked out by so many anti Israel news agencies.
As the old saying goes "You can fool all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all the people all of the time"! The time for fooling anyone about the divine destiny of Israel is thankfully beginning to come to a close. That door will never ever close completely but my friends it is time for the church to rise up with one united voice and say to the world; NEVER AGAIN! Israel belongs to God and we are Christians and we belong to Him also.
We have heard all about the Obama train and now the Trump train. Leaving politics and presidential personalities out of the equation, it is high time for the church worldwide to get on the God train and that means saying NO to prejudice and to P.C. and standing solidly in support of Israel.
God bless,
Pastor Rance.
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
ISRAEL UPDATE coming into Rosh HaShanah (TRUMPETS).
Dear friends and readers,
Ah Israel, the Apple of God's eye!
So many of my fellow Christians are confused today. They are seemingly in one of three categories;
1). Absolutely on fire 100% supporters of Israel (that would be me).
2). Absolutely deceived and think Israel is a man made evil invention who is purposely trying to make life miserable for the Palestinian people.
3). Could care less. Probably can't find Israel on the map and if they can, don't understand why it is called Israel instead of Palestine.
Hmmmm. Where shall I begin? How about Zechariah 2:8 (God speaking through the prophet) "For thus says the Lord of Hosts: He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; For he who touches you touches the apple of His eye"!
Or perhaps you are more into the New Testament? How about Romans chapter 11? (The Apostle Paul speaking for God), verse 1 "I say then has God cast away His people (Israel---Jews)? Certainly not"! verse 11 "I say then, have they (Israel---Jews) stumbled? Certainly not! But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the gentiles. Now if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure riches for the gentiles, how much more their fullness (fullness of Israel---Jews). My emphasis added in italics.
Ok Israel has not always walked according to the Word of God and has been chastised many times because of their rebellion. Elsewhere in the Word it describes Israel as a "stubborn and stiff necked people" Exodus 32:9 sees God Himself telling Moses that they are indeed a stiff necked people. Acts chapter 7:51-60 repeats that very theme.
So we have merely repeated what the Bible says about our Jewish brethren and Israel in general. In fact they are a very long way from perfect and just like any modern nation run by bureaucrats, make tons and tons of mistakes. That does not and can never nullify the fact that God chose the Jewish people as His very own and gave irrevocable covenants to Abraham, and again to his son Isaac and once again to his son Jacob, who's name was personally changed by God to "ISRAEL"!
In fact as a pastor of 33 years I think myself qualified to categorically state that the Jewish people are almost as stubborn as many of the Christians I have had in my own churches and ministries over those long years. So let's not be stone throwers who live in glass houses.
One way or another, God does not change His mind and if you are a Christian who has been taught that somehow Israel is bad, you have been deceived. Lied to might be a more direct path to the truth and it is extremely dangerous for you to be antisemitic which will bring you one day to answer very difficult questions at the judgement seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10). "For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he (or she---my emphasis added) has done, whether good or bad".
Bottom line if you are a follower of Jesus Christ you are a follower of the Messiah of Israel and He can never be separated from either Israel or His natural brothers and sisters the Jews. The church is made up of both Jew and gentile with one thing in common; They have embraced Jesus as their Messiah.
Now very many Jewish people have not done that and perhaps never will just like many gentiles will never receive Christ. That decision will cost them on judgement day but it is every persons right to make that decision. Just one more point I would like to make; When it is your turn to stand in front of the judgement seat, no one including your pastor or teacher or denominational leader can do that for you. You must do so for yourself and an excuse like "not my fault Lord, those guys over there told me---! will not cut the mustard. One simple question will be asked of you; Why did you not read and believe the Bible for yourself?
Ok, enough of that. This week several big things are happening in regards to Israel. 1). This week begins the High Holy Days (Leviticus chapter 23) starting Wednesday September 20 with the holy day of TRUMPETS (Rosh HaShanah).
Next is an announcement that Prime Minister Netanyahu, asked President Putin of Russia to guarantee that a safe zone be established in Syria including a buffer zone along the Golan Heights of 37 miles. Putin rejected this request and only guaranteed a 3 mile buffer zone and made it clear that Iranian forces are in Syria for the long haul. It might be added here that new information has been brought to light that Iran is spending 800 million every year to support the dictatorship of President Bashar al-Assad of Syria another sworn enemy of Israel.
This is extremely relevant because of the prophecies in Ezekiel chapters 38-39 clearly state that the eventual war of Gog from the land of Magog is made up of an invading army coming into the mountains of Israel and it is led, we believe by Russia and Iran.
Last week Israel took out a chemical weapons plant in Syria which was funded by Iran and assisted by the terror organization Hezbollah who have all by taken over Lebanon on Israel's norther boarder and who currently have an estimated 150,000 rockets and missiles pointed at Israeli cities. It is reported that Israel at this very moment is preparing for a massive war with Hezbollah.
In yet other news, for the very first time ever, the President of the United States working with the Prime Minister has authorized a small US armed forces base inside Israel. Good news and should further signal the US commitment to Israel's security.
Worst of all is the announcement that Hamas, the terror organization controlling the Gaza strip has just buried the old hatchet so to speak with the leader of Fatah, president Mahmoud Abbas who currently controls the East Bank territories of the Palestine political organization. In the past most nations have not dealt with Hamas but now this move giving political control back to Fatah will somewhat legitimatize Hamas which will now simply become the military wing of Fatah who unfortunately stalks the corridors of the United Nations. That basically leaves Israel with a very narrow corridor of land between the East Bank and Gaza.
Finally for today there is the immense elephant in the living room of the Middle East. You may remember that North Korea a few weeks ago threatened Israel. The bets are running high that North Korea has partnered at least in some degree with Iran on their future nuclear ambitions. We know now that North Korea already has nukes and probably a small but reliable ICBM arsenal. Iran has threatened the very existence of Israel since the revolution in 1979 when the Ayatollahs took power. The idea of both Iran and North Korea somehow working in concert to attack Israel one day is incredibly unsettling news.
If you are a Christian already in support of Israel, I do not need to tell you how much and important is prayer for that tiny nation. If you are a Christian who is an antisemite or even range from cold to indifferent toward Israel, all I can say is how are you going to explain that to your King?
Please remember the old adage everyone; "All it takes for evil to succeed is for good people to do nothing"!
Find it in your heart today folks to take Israel's situation in the Middle East seriously and pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6)
God bless you all today,
Pastor Rance.
Ah Israel, the Apple of God's eye!
So many of my fellow Christians are confused today. They are seemingly in one of three categories;
1). Absolutely on fire 100% supporters of Israel (that would be me).
2). Absolutely deceived and think Israel is a man made evil invention who is purposely trying to make life miserable for the Palestinian people.
3). Could care less. Probably can't find Israel on the map and if they can, don't understand why it is called Israel instead of Palestine.
Hmmmm. Where shall I begin? How about Zechariah 2:8 (God speaking through the prophet) "For thus says the Lord of Hosts: He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; For he who touches you touches the apple of His eye"!
Or perhaps you are more into the New Testament? How about Romans chapter 11? (The Apostle Paul speaking for God), verse 1 "I say then has God cast away His people (Israel---Jews)? Certainly not"! verse 11 "I say then, have they (Israel---Jews) stumbled? Certainly not! But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the gentiles. Now if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure riches for the gentiles, how much more their fullness (fullness of Israel---Jews). My emphasis added in italics.
Ok Israel has not always walked according to the Word of God and has been chastised many times because of their rebellion. Elsewhere in the Word it describes Israel as a "stubborn and stiff necked people" Exodus 32:9 sees God Himself telling Moses that they are indeed a stiff necked people. Acts chapter 7:51-60 repeats that very theme.
So we have merely repeated what the Bible says about our Jewish brethren and Israel in general. In fact they are a very long way from perfect and just like any modern nation run by bureaucrats, make tons and tons of mistakes. That does not and can never nullify the fact that God chose the Jewish people as His very own and gave irrevocable covenants to Abraham, and again to his son Isaac and once again to his son Jacob, who's name was personally changed by God to "ISRAEL"!
In fact as a pastor of 33 years I think myself qualified to categorically state that the Jewish people are almost as stubborn as many of the Christians I have had in my own churches and ministries over those long years. So let's not be stone throwers who live in glass houses.
One way or another, God does not change His mind and if you are a Christian who has been taught that somehow Israel is bad, you have been deceived. Lied to might be a more direct path to the truth and it is extremely dangerous for you to be antisemitic which will bring you one day to answer very difficult questions at the judgement seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10). "For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he (or she---my emphasis added) has done, whether good or bad".
Bottom line if you are a follower of Jesus Christ you are a follower of the Messiah of Israel and He can never be separated from either Israel or His natural brothers and sisters the Jews. The church is made up of both Jew and gentile with one thing in common; They have embraced Jesus as their Messiah.
Now very many Jewish people have not done that and perhaps never will just like many gentiles will never receive Christ. That decision will cost them on judgement day but it is every persons right to make that decision. Just one more point I would like to make; When it is your turn to stand in front of the judgement seat, no one including your pastor or teacher or denominational leader can do that for you. You must do so for yourself and an excuse like "not my fault Lord, those guys over there told me---! will not cut the mustard. One simple question will be asked of you; Why did you not read and believe the Bible for yourself?
Ok, enough of that. This week several big things are happening in regards to Israel. 1). This week begins the High Holy Days (Leviticus chapter 23) starting Wednesday September 20 with the holy day of TRUMPETS (Rosh HaShanah).
Next is an announcement that Prime Minister Netanyahu, asked President Putin of Russia to guarantee that a safe zone be established in Syria including a buffer zone along the Golan Heights of 37 miles. Putin rejected this request and only guaranteed a 3 mile buffer zone and made it clear that Iranian forces are in Syria for the long haul. It might be added here that new information has been brought to light that Iran is spending 800 million every year to support the dictatorship of President Bashar al-Assad of Syria another sworn enemy of Israel.
This is extremely relevant because of the prophecies in Ezekiel chapters 38-39 clearly state that the eventual war of Gog from the land of Magog is made up of an invading army coming into the mountains of Israel and it is led, we believe by Russia and Iran.
Last week Israel took out a chemical weapons plant in Syria which was funded by Iran and assisted by the terror organization Hezbollah who have all by taken over Lebanon on Israel's norther boarder and who currently have an estimated 150,000 rockets and missiles pointed at Israeli cities. It is reported that Israel at this very moment is preparing for a massive war with Hezbollah.
In yet other news, for the very first time ever, the President of the United States working with the Prime Minister has authorized a small US armed forces base inside Israel. Good news and should further signal the US commitment to Israel's security.
Worst of all is the announcement that Hamas, the terror organization controlling the Gaza strip has just buried the old hatchet so to speak with the leader of Fatah, president Mahmoud Abbas who currently controls the East Bank territories of the Palestine political organization. In the past most nations have not dealt with Hamas but now this move giving political control back to Fatah will somewhat legitimatize Hamas which will now simply become the military wing of Fatah who unfortunately stalks the corridors of the United Nations. That basically leaves Israel with a very narrow corridor of land between the East Bank and Gaza.
Finally for today there is the immense elephant in the living room of the Middle East. You may remember that North Korea a few weeks ago threatened Israel. The bets are running high that North Korea has partnered at least in some degree with Iran on their future nuclear ambitions. We know now that North Korea already has nukes and probably a small but reliable ICBM arsenal. Iran has threatened the very existence of Israel since the revolution in 1979 when the Ayatollahs took power. The idea of both Iran and North Korea somehow working in concert to attack Israel one day is incredibly unsettling news.
If you are a Christian already in support of Israel, I do not need to tell you how much and important is prayer for that tiny nation. If you are a Christian who is an antisemite or even range from cold to indifferent toward Israel, all I can say is how are you going to explain that to your King?
Please remember the old adage everyone; "All it takes for evil to succeed is for good people to do nothing"!
Find it in your heart today folks to take Israel's situation in the Middle East seriously and pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6)
God bless you all today,
Pastor Rance.
Thursday, September 7, 2017
ISRAEL ATTACKS! Hot off the press, chemical weapons plant in Syria operated by Iran and Hezbollah is no more.
Dear friends and readers,
BIG TIME NEWS HOT OFF THE PRESS!
It would appear from Middle East news reports that Israel just launched a massive air strike inside Syria.
TARGET CENTRAL? A chemical weapons plant run by Iran and Hezbollah located in Hama close to the town of Masyaf. Reports coming in from both Lebanese and Syrian media Thursday morning reporting Israeli fighter aircraft flying over both countries. As the old saying goes, if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck it is a duck. This plant being well within Syrian controlled territory is basically part of the Assad regimes continuing fantasy lie scape of denial about possessing chemical weapons. Now we know they are actually producing them and for what end? Can anyone guess? Assad has already used chemical weapons on his very own countryman so possibly using them against Israel does not take much of a leap in imagination.
Please remember that Hezbollah which is a puppet terror organization supported by Iran currently has a reported 150,000 rockets and missiles pointed at Israel from just across the southern Lebanese boarder. Not to mention a medium sized fully equipped light infantry army plus mechanized calvary units. It would not take much effort to load both chemical and biological weapons on the Hezbollah stockpile if not already done. The plant that was destroyed today manufactured both. Although totally destroyed the question is, how many of these despicable weapons are stockpiled in different areas around Syria or perhaps already in Lebanon?
It makes one wonder when the United Nations is going to wake up and stop believing blather from verified lying terrorist regimes.
The Israeli IDF refuses to confirm or deny these reports but that is long standing SOP for the Israeli's. Syria claims that two of it's solders were killed in the attack.
Israel has been reporting Syrian and Iranian attempts to expand it's authority in the region for sometime. But when Israel complains through diplomatic channels to the worldwide international community via the United Nations, all they see on the door is an "out to lunch sign"! It amazes me that Israel has been this patient for so long in view of Iran, Hezbollah and Hamas stated goals of total annihilation of Israel. It should be noted that the attacks on this plant came on the heels of much diplomatic efforts by Israel which have shown no positive fruit what so ever.
At this very moment Israel is conducting the final phases of the largest military exercise of it's kind in the past 19 years and it was done on the Northern boarder literally under the noses of Hezbollah. This drill was huge and included the IDF, IAF, Navy, and IDF intelligence corps. Probably a coincidence that these war games were in perfect sink with the weapons plant attack? I doubt it and in view of the fact that Syria seems to be rattling the sword of immediate retaliation, what a better time to have so much Israeli war power within reach of Lebanon and Syria. Pre-staged you might say.
Both the Israeli Prime Minister and Defense Minister have clearly warned previously that they will not stand for military buildup by Iran and her proxies Hezbollah on the north and Hamas on the west. There have been some recent times in which Hamas seemed to be rebelling against the Iranian yoke but just last week the newly elected head of Hamas declared that Iran is their main sponsor.
I think it very possible that failing an all out diplomatic push by the United States, this issue could develop into a very dangerous fiasco for the entire Middle East region. Some pundits are already saying that this single issue could lead to the Gog from the land of Magog war of Ezekiel chapter 38-39. I do not share that opinion although I have stated in recent past articles that the stage is definitely being set for Gog and Magog since at this very moment in time, three of the probable major players in that war are now in league to patrol (for peaceful purposes?) the boarder area between Israel and Syria which is the Golan Heights. Russia, Iran and Turkey now "providing security" is simply another way of saying "the fox has been placed in charge of the henhouse".
While I do not believe that Gog and Magog are on the immediate horizon, let us not forget another prophecy yet to be fulfilled which is written in Isaiah chapter 17. That is the total and complete destruction of the massive city of Damascus the capital of Syria. This city was first listed in the book of Genesis and has never been destroyed. The 2017 population is listed at 2.5 million people and is only about 50 miles slightly north east of Israel. Who knows what circumstances will trigger that massive event?
Watch the news in the next few days folks. I will really be surprised if this does not get out of hand rapidly. Couple that with the extremely serious potential problems with the North Korean nuclear weapons threats and throw in a continuing war of long longevity in Afghanistan. Then, two next door neighbors, Pakistan and India both nuclear powers who hate each other. What you end up with is a Middle East and Asia which are both box's of dynamite ready to explode.
The question is, where is Russia in all this? Just yesterday the assistant Prime Minister of Poland appealed to the United States and other NATO countries to be extremely vigilant because Russia is launching massive war games in cooperation with Belarus (White Russia) on the boarder with Poland. Russia already tried to take over Georgia and has gone a long way toward that end in the Ukraine. Is Poland next on their radar? Impossible you say? Well that is the exact scenario used by the old Soviet Union and many people believe President Vladimir Putin intends to reinvent that particular wheel. And by the way, what will be Russia's response if any to the Israeli attack that destroyed this chemical weapons plant?
The world is in a real mess right now folks so the question is, which shoe will drop next? Stay tuned.
God bless,
Pastor Rance.
Sunday, September 3, 2017
North Korea, will it never end?
Dear friends and readers,
The guy who mucks out the winter time milking barn often say's "Winter is hanging around like a bad smell"! I could say the same about this terrible seemingly unexplainable "issue" with North Korea.
Last week I wrote an update regarding the potential nuclear problem in the "hermit kingdom". Why exactly we should be very concerned (worried would be another acceptable term), with the totally irrational actions of Kim Jong Un, the current tyrant of a generations long family dynasty who rapes and pillages it's own population while spending BILLIONS on strengthening an already huge army and threatening the world with nuclear holocaust.
What is this man trying to accomplish? It is almost like he has a death wish or is so self absorbed that he actually thinks he can thumb his nations nose at the entire world and get away with it. I made a point in a previous article that the North Koreans have been brain washed into believing that Kim is god.
If the military leaders also believe this and Kim himself is so self deceived that he actually considers himself to be god, then it is very possible that this will spin out of control. Just yesterday, the north conducted yet another underground nuclear test only this time it was the biggest and most powerful ever. The South Korean Meteorological Administration said that the explosion registered a magnitude of 5.7--6.3 on the earthquake logarithmic scale. This caused another following tremor of 4.1. How many such tests can be held before the earth takes an irrevocable hit that could conceivably permanently damage the structure of the planet?
Bad but the real problem is two fold; 1). This is now the sixth such test with each one more powerful than the last. 2). This recent test is claimed by the north to be a "HYDROGEN BOMB" which means it has far greater destructive capabilities than an old fashioned Atomic bomb like was used during WWII against Japan. This test was 10 times bigger in power and magnitude than was registered back in September 2016 which the USGS registered at 5.3. In fact this test was estimated at 100 kilotons which means it was 5 times greater than the United States dropped on Nagasaki Japan to end the Pacific portion of WWII in 1945.
This is not a small matter! Particularly when Kim Jung Un claimed that this was a warhead capable of being mounted on an ICBM (Intercontinental ballistic missile). Think about that wording for a moment. It means that the north is actively claiming that it can fire a huge nuclear tipped missile to strike another continent. Since Kim has threatened both the mainland United States and Israel---both of whom are nuclear nations, WITH A NUCLER STRIKE REQUIRING LESS THAN ONE HOURS FLYING TIME??? The question is, how long with either power or other nuclear nations for that matter wait to respond? Until the thing lands? I doubt that seriously.
Kim may push this thing to the point that a preemptive strike may become the only option available to stop his inevitable march toward his own personal Armageddon.
As you probably know the United States and several countries within the United Nations have voted to increase economic sanctions of North Korea. These include (surprisingly) both China and Russia who have been steadfast supporters of North Korea in the past and may even have supplied it with nuclear capabilities. So why would these two nations begin to turn against North Korea now? Perhaps because the pet lion they have had on a chain for the past 67 years, has suddenly grown so large that it has chewed the chain in two and is now snarling in the faces of it's masters.
And guess what? North Korea has never ever bowed to financial sanctions and I doubt they ever will. In the end that may ONLY leave a military option.
Russia is trying desperately to grow past the devastation wrought upon it by the sudden and catastrophic demise of the Old Soviet Union. While they are trying once again to establish dominance in the region and are trying to gobble up other nations like the Ukraine, they also cannot risk an all out war with Uncle Sam who currently fields the mightiest military on planet earth. China has tremendous military assets but like North Korea that is at the cost of developing it's own humongous population of 1,389,254,092. That's right folks, nearly one and one have BILLION people all of whom need food. China also cannot afford any kind of disruption in it's economy, particularly a war with the allied nations because they simply could not feed their population in that event. Not that it would be a "cake walk" for the allied nations either.
One way or another this situation is stacking up to be a problem of immense proportions and it would appear that there are no easy solutions. This is getting worse by the week.
South Koreas National Security Advisor Chung Eui-yong stated that they are at the point of authorizing a possible deployment of THE MOST POWERFUL STRATEGIC ASSETS THAT THE UNITED STATES POSSESSES. Of course the final decision for that would be left to the Commander in Chief of the United States along with his national security council. If you have any thoughts that Congress would try and stop the President from protecting the US from a very real ACTUAL threat, think again. Even though the two great American political parties are seemingly incapable of agreeing on the time of day---in the final analysis, no Senator or Congressman wants to be the one who has to tell his constituents to "DUCK FOR COVER" and oh, by the way, you have less than one hour to do it.
We basically have three sides to this issue; Russia along with some other Warsaw Pact nations, China a kind of a stand alone self sufficient world power but with strong ties to both North Korea and Iran. Offset that with the Allied powers of Nato, the US, Great Britain, Belgium, France and many more for a total of 29, all of whom have signed a mutual defense pact. Of these the US, United Kingdom, France, China and Russia---probably Israel, (although not part of NATO), are all nuclear. Fortunately there is not one among them that actually wants a nuclear war. No crazy men here. But then you do have North Korea and Iran who are run by theological extremists and no one can predict what they will do. That makes for a very unstable region not to mention both Pakistan and India who are also nuclear and who hate each other.
Bottom line is that the world has a very real extremely dangerous mess on it's hands with zero easy answers.
I for one can make no proclamation regarding how this issue with North Korea will be resolved. But the problem is that it appears none of our foremost world leaders has any idea either. I had mentioned in last weeks up date that this situation is fraught with danger and the ultimate form of brinkmanship. After yesterdays underground nuclear test and Kim Jong Uns most recent threats, that brinkmanship just increased by a factor of 10.
Let us pray
God bless
Pastor Rance.
The guy who mucks out the winter time milking barn often say's "Winter is hanging around like a bad smell"! I could say the same about this terrible seemingly unexplainable "issue" with North Korea.
Last week I wrote an update regarding the potential nuclear problem in the "hermit kingdom". Why exactly we should be very concerned (worried would be another acceptable term), with the totally irrational actions of Kim Jong Un, the current tyrant of a generations long family dynasty who rapes and pillages it's own population while spending BILLIONS on strengthening an already huge army and threatening the world with nuclear holocaust.
What is this man trying to accomplish? It is almost like he has a death wish or is so self absorbed that he actually thinks he can thumb his nations nose at the entire world and get away with it. I made a point in a previous article that the North Koreans have been brain washed into believing that Kim is god.
If the military leaders also believe this and Kim himself is so self deceived that he actually considers himself to be god, then it is very possible that this will spin out of control. Just yesterday, the north conducted yet another underground nuclear test only this time it was the biggest and most powerful ever. The South Korean Meteorological Administration said that the explosion registered a magnitude of 5.7--6.3 on the earthquake logarithmic scale. This caused another following tremor of 4.1. How many such tests can be held before the earth takes an irrevocable hit that could conceivably permanently damage the structure of the planet?
Bad but the real problem is two fold; 1). This is now the sixth such test with each one more powerful than the last. 2). This recent test is claimed by the north to be a "HYDROGEN BOMB" which means it has far greater destructive capabilities than an old fashioned Atomic bomb like was used during WWII against Japan. This test was 10 times bigger in power and magnitude than was registered back in September 2016 which the USGS registered at 5.3. In fact this test was estimated at 100 kilotons which means it was 5 times greater than the United States dropped on Nagasaki Japan to end the Pacific portion of WWII in 1945.
This is not a small matter! Particularly when Kim Jung Un claimed that this was a warhead capable of being mounted on an ICBM (Intercontinental ballistic missile). Think about that wording for a moment. It means that the north is actively claiming that it can fire a huge nuclear tipped missile to strike another continent. Since Kim has threatened both the mainland United States and Israel---both of whom are nuclear nations, WITH A NUCLER STRIKE REQUIRING LESS THAN ONE HOURS FLYING TIME??? The question is, how long with either power or other nuclear nations for that matter wait to respond? Until the thing lands? I doubt that seriously.
Kim may push this thing to the point that a preemptive strike may become the only option available to stop his inevitable march toward his own personal Armageddon.
As you probably know the United States and several countries within the United Nations have voted to increase economic sanctions of North Korea. These include (surprisingly) both China and Russia who have been steadfast supporters of North Korea in the past and may even have supplied it with nuclear capabilities. So why would these two nations begin to turn against North Korea now? Perhaps because the pet lion they have had on a chain for the past 67 years, has suddenly grown so large that it has chewed the chain in two and is now snarling in the faces of it's masters.
And guess what? North Korea has never ever bowed to financial sanctions and I doubt they ever will. In the end that may ONLY leave a military option.
Russia is trying desperately to grow past the devastation wrought upon it by the sudden and catastrophic demise of the Old Soviet Union. While they are trying once again to establish dominance in the region and are trying to gobble up other nations like the Ukraine, they also cannot risk an all out war with Uncle Sam who currently fields the mightiest military on planet earth. China has tremendous military assets but like North Korea that is at the cost of developing it's own humongous population of 1,389,254,092. That's right folks, nearly one and one have BILLION people all of whom need food. China also cannot afford any kind of disruption in it's economy, particularly a war with the allied nations because they simply could not feed their population in that event. Not that it would be a "cake walk" for the allied nations either.
One way or another this situation is stacking up to be a problem of immense proportions and it would appear that there are no easy solutions. This is getting worse by the week.
South Koreas National Security Advisor Chung Eui-yong stated that they are at the point of authorizing a possible deployment of THE MOST POWERFUL STRATEGIC ASSETS THAT THE UNITED STATES POSSESSES. Of course the final decision for that would be left to the Commander in Chief of the United States along with his national security council. If you have any thoughts that Congress would try and stop the President from protecting the US from a very real ACTUAL threat, think again. Even though the two great American political parties are seemingly incapable of agreeing on the time of day---in the final analysis, no Senator or Congressman wants to be the one who has to tell his constituents to "DUCK FOR COVER" and oh, by the way, you have less than one hour to do it.
We basically have three sides to this issue; Russia along with some other Warsaw Pact nations, China a kind of a stand alone self sufficient world power but with strong ties to both North Korea and Iran. Offset that with the Allied powers of Nato, the US, Great Britain, Belgium, France and many more for a total of 29, all of whom have signed a mutual defense pact. Of these the US, United Kingdom, France, China and Russia---probably Israel, (although not part of NATO), are all nuclear. Fortunately there is not one among them that actually wants a nuclear war. No crazy men here. But then you do have North Korea and Iran who are run by theological extremists and no one can predict what they will do. That makes for a very unstable region not to mention both Pakistan and India who are also nuclear and who hate each other.
Bottom line is that the world has a very real extremely dangerous mess on it's hands with zero easy answers.
I for one can make no proclamation regarding how this issue with North Korea will be resolved. But the problem is that it appears none of our foremost world leaders has any idea either. I had mentioned in last weeks up date that this situation is fraught with danger and the ultimate form of brinkmanship. After yesterdays underground nuclear test and Kim Jong Uns most recent threats, that brinkmanship just increased by a factor of 10.
Let us pray
God bless
Pastor Rance.
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
UPDATE; North Korea still playing dangerous games
Dear friends,
I would like to put the North Korean issue behind me so I can concentrate on other articles. About the time I begin to think that Kim Jong Un is finally getting control of his ego and temper, he does something truly stupid---AGAIN! My computer screen is split at this moment so I am writing on one side and listening to air raid sirens in Japan on the other side.
How fool hardy of this man to shoot another missile directly over Japan? Had that missile failed in the slightest way and struck Japan's Hokkaido Island all bets would be off and bombs would be dropping at this very moment.
This is the update;
Japanese citizens ordered into bomb shelters on Hokkaido Island.
China warns that the "situation" is now at a tipping point.
Japan declares the missile an unprecedented threat.
South Korea responds with yet more bombing drills evoking more war like rhetoric from Kim Jong Un.
U.N. Security Council meeting today to try and discover a solution to a problem with no solution.
President Trump says he has received North Korea's message "loud and clear" and that ALL options are on the American and allied forces war table.
An Envoy from Pyongyang (North Korea's capital city) accused the United States of driving the Korean Peninsula towards an extreme level of explosion.
Russia was quiet which may be one of the most dire consequences of all.
The missile was fired from a launch pad just outside Pyongyang and flew 1,700 miles in just 15 minutes.
Kim has now ordered over 80 missile tests, more than both his father and grandfather combined not to mention 3 verified underground nuclear tests in recent memory.
More economic sanctions will most certainly be ordered by several nations against North Korea who has never ever bowed to such things and has escalated the threat of devastating war as a consequence.
Please remember that just one month ago (July 28) Pyongyang fired an intercontinental ballistic missile that traveled into the atmosphere before reentry and could have been targeted for a range of 6,200 miles putting parts of the US mainland within reach and most certainly Hawaii and Guam. It is now believed that a small nuclear warhead can be loaded onto an ICBM by the North.
A new Hwasong-12 intermediate range missile may have been tested which could easily strike Guam
which is home to two very robust United States military installations. Not to mention US bases located near Japan.
For those folks who have doubts about the North Korean capabilities to launch an ICBM? North Korea launched a rocket carrying a communications satellite into orbit over Japan in 2009. It was also considered to be a ballistic missile test by allied powers.
Now other countries leaders such as Prime Minister Theresa May are outraged by North Korea's "reckless provocations".
Not to be discounted are the effects of this reckless behavior on the worlds stock markets. Since they are now all basically interconnected, you can bet investors worldwide have noticed that the Japanese "NIKKEI" market hit a 4 month low on Tuesday immediately after the North Korean missile launch.
Folks this is brinkmanship on steroids. It will not take much more trigger happy folly by Kim Jong Un to start a shooting war of devastating proportions. Unfortunately I do not think that all the sanctions and threats in the world will make Kim back down.
Stay tuned and watch your news channels.
God bless,
Pastor Rance.
I would like to put the North Korean issue behind me so I can concentrate on other articles. About the time I begin to think that Kim Jong Un is finally getting control of his ego and temper, he does something truly stupid---AGAIN! My computer screen is split at this moment so I am writing on one side and listening to air raid sirens in Japan on the other side.
How fool hardy of this man to shoot another missile directly over Japan? Had that missile failed in the slightest way and struck Japan's Hokkaido Island all bets would be off and bombs would be dropping at this very moment.
This is the update;
Japanese citizens ordered into bomb shelters on Hokkaido Island.
China warns that the "situation" is now at a tipping point.
Japan declares the missile an unprecedented threat.
South Korea responds with yet more bombing drills evoking more war like rhetoric from Kim Jong Un.
U.N. Security Council meeting today to try and discover a solution to a problem with no solution.
President Trump says he has received North Korea's message "loud and clear" and that ALL options are on the American and allied forces war table.
An Envoy from Pyongyang (North Korea's capital city) accused the United States of driving the Korean Peninsula towards an extreme level of explosion.
Russia was quiet which may be one of the most dire consequences of all.
The missile was fired from a launch pad just outside Pyongyang and flew 1,700 miles in just 15 minutes.
Kim has now ordered over 80 missile tests, more than both his father and grandfather combined not to mention 3 verified underground nuclear tests in recent memory.
More economic sanctions will most certainly be ordered by several nations against North Korea who has never ever bowed to such things and has escalated the threat of devastating war as a consequence.
Please remember that just one month ago (July 28) Pyongyang fired an intercontinental ballistic missile that traveled into the atmosphere before reentry and could have been targeted for a range of 6,200 miles putting parts of the US mainland within reach and most certainly Hawaii and Guam. It is now believed that a small nuclear warhead can be loaded onto an ICBM by the North.
A new Hwasong-12 intermediate range missile may have been tested which could easily strike Guam
which is home to two very robust United States military installations. Not to mention US bases located near Japan.
For those folks who have doubts about the North Korean capabilities to launch an ICBM? North Korea launched a rocket carrying a communications satellite into orbit over Japan in 2009. It was also considered to be a ballistic missile test by allied powers.
Now other countries leaders such as Prime Minister Theresa May are outraged by North Korea's "reckless provocations".
Not to be discounted are the effects of this reckless behavior on the worlds stock markets. Since they are now all basically interconnected, you can bet investors worldwide have noticed that the Japanese "NIKKEI" market hit a 4 month low on Tuesday immediately after the North Korean missile launch.
Folks this is brinkmanship on steroids. It will not take much more trigger happy folly by Kim Jong Un to start a shooting war of devastating proportions. Unfortunately I do not think that all the sanctions and threats in the world will make Kim back down.
Stay tuned and watch your news channels.
God bless,
Pastor Rance.
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