This Is Something To Make Us All Think
Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her "How could God let something like this happen ?"
Ann Graham gave us an extremely profound and insightful response. She said "I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives.
And being the gentleman he is, I believe he has calmly backed out. How can we expect God To give us his blessing and his protection if we demand he leave us alone?"
In light of recent events...terrorists attack, school shootings, etc... I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found recently) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said Ok.
Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school...the Bible says thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself. And we said Ok.
Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr. Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he is talking about. And we said Ok.
Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates and themselves.
Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with "We Reap What We Sow."
Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says.
Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing.
Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school workplace.
Are you Laughing?
Here are my notes on this subject: I do believe that God is saddened by what happened in the September 11 attack, but also, have you ever thought that If, If he had caused it, that maybe, just maybe, he was testing our faith in him? To maybe let us know, that we just might need him now and always have, but just did not know it. But I have observed people for a long, long time and I have, to my disappointment, noticed that People have their heads in the sand. They don't want to get closer to God, because that would mean that they would have to accept the truth/the accurate knowledge of what is in the Bible, but instead, rely on these false prophets to tell them what is in the Bible, instead of reading it themselves. There are no true christians in any of the churches. If there were, they would not be in a church where the preachers, priests etc.. are preaching what they feel comfortable with, which is not what is in the whole Bible. People should read the Bible for themselves, word for word, page by page and when you are through, read it again. The more you read, the more you learn and know that Jesus was not born on December 25th; that, that is a pagan celebration, not a true Christian celebration. To be a true Christian, you have to follow the statutes and convenant of God, and that is not Easter, nor birthdays (because Jesus who was perfect in every way, never celebrated his, so why should we, who are imperfect and full of sin, have the right to celebrate ours) It says in the Bible, the only thing we are suppose to observe is the Passover. Remember that people? The night before Jesus was betrayed by Judas Iscariot and then crucified by his own people. Our children have no conscience because they were brought up as latch key kids with no parents at home and no one to discipline them when they needed it, but were left to do whatever they wanted to do. And we can imagine what that would be with most of the kids. There should always be someone at home with their child, to teach them some morals, ethics, manners and most important of all Bible standards of what is expected of our young people and adults as a whole family. People are just plain stupid in my opinion to let everything come before their children and family life. They should all take some time out to read the Bible to each other. So what, you have to give up an hour or two of TV, or riding your bike, or listening to music or doing a report for work. It is what God wants us to do that is important, not what we want. We are suppose to follow his rules, not our own. Yes, Ann Graham has made a lot of points here. Dr. Spock's son was already warped before he committed suicide, because he was not disciplined as he should have been. He was most likely ignored or his parents were overly strict. That is probably why the poor fool offed himself. We do "reap what we sow." What goes around comes around. I have seen proof of that myself. What the Bible says is what God wanted put in there, by people he trusted most. Remember, it will be God who will be judging us, not man, so I think we had better get it together before it is too late, because we do not know when he will make his entrance. I read some from the Bible every day and have for years; and when I finish reading all of the Bible, I start over again. The more I read, the more I learn. Take a hint! Your soul could sure use it. Save your soul while you can. It won't be much longer. The signs are getting stronger.
3.26.2004
3.25.2004
Respond To The Evidence
How will this system end? The Bible foretells a "great tribulation" that will begin wih an attack by this world's political element upon "Babylon the Great," the word empire of false religion. (Matthew 24:21; Revelation 17:5, 16) Jesus said that during this period 'the sun would be darkened, and the moon would not give its light, and the stars would fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens would be shaken.' (Matthew 24:29) This may denote literal celestial phenomena. In any case, the shining lights of the religious world will be exposed and eliminated. Then Satan, called "Gog of the land of Magog," will use corrupted humans in making an all-out assault upon Jehovah's people. But Satan will not succeed, for God will come to their rescue. (Ezekiel 38:1,2 14-23) "The great tribulation" will reach its climax in Armageddon, "the war of the great day of God the Almighty. "It will clean out every vestige of Satan's earthly organization, opening the way for endless blessings to flow to surviving mankind. - Revelation 7:9,14; 11:15; 16:14, 16; 21:3, 4.
By themselves, some features of the prophecies describing the last days might seem to apply to other periods of history. But when combined, the prophesied evidences pinpoint our day. To illustrate: The lines making up a person's fingertip form a pattern that cannot belong to any other individual. Similarly, the last days have their own pattern of marks, or happenings. These form a "fingerprint" that cannot belong to any other time period. When considered along with Bible indications that God's heavenly Kingdom is now ruling, the evidence provides a solid basis for concluding that these are indeed the last days. Moreover, there is clear Scriptual proof that the present wicked system will soon be destroyed.
How will you respond to the evidence that these are the last days? Consider this: If a fiercely destructive storm is impending, we take precautionary measures without delay. Well, what the Bible foretells for this present system should move us to action. (Matthew 16:1-3) We can clearly see that we are living in the last days of this world system. This should motivate us to make any adjustments necessary to gain God's favor. (2 Peter 3:3, 10-12) Referring to himself as the agent for salvation, Jesus sounds the urgent call: "Pay attention to yourselves that your hearts never become weighed down with overeating and heavy drinking and anxieties of life, and suddenly that day be instantly upon you as a snare. For it will come in upon all those dwelling upon the face of the earth. Keep awake, then, all the time making supplication that you may succeed in escaping all these things that are destined to occur, and in standing before the Son of man." - Luke 21:34-36.
How will this system end? The Bible foretells a "great tribulation" that will begin wih an attack by this world's political element upon "Babylon the Great," the word empire of false religion. (Matthew 24:21; Revelation 17:5, 16) Jesus said that during this period 'the sun would be darkened, and the moon would not give its light, and the stars would fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens would be shaken.' (Matthew 24:29) This may denote literal celestial phenomena. In any case, the shining lights of the religious world will be exposed and eliminated. Then Satan, called "Gog of the land of Magog," will use corrupted humans in making an all-out assault upon Jehovah's people. But Satan will not succeed, for God will come to their rescue. (Ezekiel 38:1,2 14-23) "The great tribulation" will reach its climax in Armageddon, "the war of the great day of God the Almighty. "It will clean out every vestige of Satan's earthly organization, opening the way for endless blessings to flow to surviving mankind. - Revelation 7:9,14; 11:15; 16:14, 16; 21:3, 4.
By themselves, some features of the prophecies describing the last days might seem to apply to other periods of history. But when combined, the prophesied evidences pinpoint our day. To illustrate: The lines making up a person's fingertip form a pattern that cannot belong to any other individual. Similarly, the last days have their own pattern of marks, or happenings. These form a "fingerprint" that cannot belong to any other time period. When considered along with Bible indications that God's heavenly Kingdom is now ruling, the evidence provides a solid basis for concluding that these are indeed the last days. Moreover, there is clear Scriptual proof that the present wicked system will soon be destroyed.
How will you respond to the evidence that these are the last days? Consider this: If a fiercely destructive storm is impending, we take precautionary measures without delay. Well, what the Bible foretells for this present system should move us to action. (Matthew 16:1-3) We can clearly see that we are living in the last days of this world system. This should motivate us to make any adjustments necessary to gain God's favor. (2 Peter 3:3, 10-12) Referring to himself as the agent for salvation, Jesus sounds the urgent call: "Pay attention to yourselves that your hearts never become weighed down with overeating and heavy drinking and anxieties of life, and suddenly that day be instantly upon you as a snare. For it will come in upon all those dwelling upon the face of the earth. Keep awake, then, all the time making supplication that you may succeed in escaping all these things that are destined to occur, and in standing before the Son of man." - Luke 21:34-36.
3.24.2004
Blessings To You
If you woke up this morning with more health than illness,
You are more blessed than the million who won't survive the week.
If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of
Imprisonment, the agony of torture or the pangs of starvation, you
Are ahead of 20 million people around the world.
If you attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest,
Torture or death, you are more blessed than almost three billion
People in the world.
If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof
Over your head and a place to sleep, you are richer than 75% of
This world.
If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change
In a dish someplace,you are among the top 8% of the world's
Wealthy.
If your parents are still married and alive, you are very rare,
Especially in the United States.
If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are
Truly thankful, you are blessed because the majority can,
But most do not.
If you can hold someone's hand, hug them or even touch
Them on the shoulder, you are blessed because you can
Offer God's healing touch.
If you can read this message, you are more blessed than
Over two billion people in the world that cannot read at all.
You are so blessed in many ways you don't even know.
Blessings To You!
If you woke up this morning with more health than illness,
You are more blessed than the million who won't survive the week.
If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of
Imprisonment, the agony of torture or the pangs of starvation, you
Are ahead of 20 million people around the world.
If you attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest,
Torture or death, you are more blessed than almost three billion
People in the world.
If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof
Over your head and a place to sleep, you are richer than 75% of
This world.
If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change
In a dish someplace,you are among the top 8% of the world's
Wealthy.
If your parents are still married and alive, you are very rare,
Especially in the United States.
If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are
Truly thankful, you are blessed because the majority can,
But most do not.
If you can hold someone's hand, hug them or even touch
Them on the shoulder, you are blessed because you can
Offer God's healing touch.
If you can read this message, you are more blessed than
Over two billion people in the world that cannot read at all.
You are so blessed in many ways you don't even know.
Blessings To You!
3.22.2004
Continued - Having No Natural Affection
"Having no natural affection." (2 Timothy 3:3) This phrase is translated from a Greek word meaning "heartless, inhuman" and denoting a "lack of natural, family affection." (The New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology) Yes, affection is often missing in the very environment in which it should flourish - the home. Reports of abusive treatment of marriage mates, children and even of elderly parents have become disturbingly common. One research team commented: "Human violence - be it a slap or a shove, a knifing or a shoot-out - occurs more frequently within the family circle than anywhere else in our society."
"Having a form of Godly devotion but proving false to its power." (2 Timothy 3:5) The Bible has the power to change lives for the better. (Ephesians 4:22-24) Yet, many today use their religion as a screen behind which they carry on unrighteous activities that displease God. Lying, stealing, and sexual misconduct are often condoned by religious leaders. Many religions preach love but support warfare. "In the name of the Supreme Creator," observes an editoral in the magazine India Today, "human beings have perpetrated the most abominable atrocities against thier fellow creatures." In fact, the two bloodiest conflicts of recent times -- World Wars I and II - errupted in the heart of Christendom.
"Ruining the earth." (Revelation 11:18) More than 1,600 scientists,including 104 Nobel laureates, from around the world endorsed a warning, issued by the Union of Concerned Scientist (UCS), that stated: "Human beings and the natural world are on a collision course... No more than a few decades remain before the chance to avert the threats will be lost." The report said that the man's life-threatening practices "may so alter the world that it will be unable to sustain life in the manner that we know." Ozone depletion, water pollution, deforestation, loss of soil productivity, and the extinction of many animal and plant species were cited as urgent problems that must be addressed. " our tampering with the interdependent web of life," said the UCS, "could trigger widespread effects, including collapses of biological systems whose dynamics we imperfectly understand."
"This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth." (Matthew 24:14) Jesus foretold that the good news of the Kingdom would be preached earthwide, for a witness to all nations. With divine help and blessing, millions of Jehovah's Witnesses are devoting billions of hours to this preaching and disciple-making work. (Matthew 28:19,20) Yes, the Witnesses realize that they would be bloodguilty if they did not declare the good news. (Ezekiel 3:18,19) But they are delighted that each year thousands gratefully respond to the Kingdom message and take their stand as true Christians, that is, as Witnesses of Jehovah. It is an inestimable privilege to serve Jehovah and thus spread the knowledge of God, and after this good news is preached in all the inhabited earth, the end of this wicked system will come.
Next: Respond To The Evidence
"Having no natural affection." (2 Timothy 3:3) This phrase is translated from a Greek word meaning "heartless, inhuman" and denoting a "lack of natural, family affection." (The New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology) Yes, affection is often missing in the very environment in which it should flourish - the home. Reports of abusive treatment of marriage mates, children and even of elderly parents have become disturbingly common. One research team commented: "Human violence - be it a slap or a shove, a knifing or a shoot-out - occurs more frequently within the family circle than anywhere else in our society."
"Having a form of Godly devotion but proving false to its power." (2 Timothy 3:5) The Bible has the power to change lives for the better. (Ephesians 4:22-24) Yet, many today use their religion as a screen behind which they carry on unrighteous activities that displease God. Lying, stealing, and sexual misconduct are often condoned by religious leaders. Many religions preach love but support warfare. "In the name of the Supreme Creator," observes an editoral in the magazine India Today, "human beings have perpetrated the most abominable atrocities against thier fellow creatures." In fact, the two bloodiest conflicts of recent times -- World Wars I and II - errupted in the heart of Christendom.
"Ruining the earth." (Revelation 11:18) More than 1,600 scientists,including 104 Nobel laureates, from around the world endorsed a warning, issued by the Union of Concerned Scientist (UCS), that stated: "Human beings and the natural world are on a collision course... No more than a few decades remain before the chance to avert the threats will be lost." The report said that the man's life-threatening practices "may so alter the world that it will be unable to sustain life in the manner that we know." Ozone depletion, water pollution, deforestation, loss of soil productivity, and the extinction of many animal and plant species were cited as urgent problems that must be addressed. " our tampering with the interdependent web of life," said the UCS, "could trigger widespread effects, including collapses of biological systems whose dynamics we imperfectly understand."
"This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth." (Matthew 24:14) Jesus foretold that the good news of the Kingdom would be preached earthwide, for a witness to all nations. With divine help and blessing, millions of Jehovah's Witnesses are devoting billions of hours to this preaching and disciple-making work. (Matthew 28:19,20) Yes, the Witnesses realize that they would be bloodguilty if they did not declare the good news. (Ezekiel 3:18,19) But they are delighted that each year thousands gratefully respond to the Kingdom message and take their stand as true Christians, that is, as Witnesses of Jehovah. It is an inestimable privilege to serve Jehovah and thus spread the knowledge of God, and after this good news is preached in all the inhabited earth, the end of this wicked system will come.
Next: Respond To The Evidence
3.17.2004
Continued: Features of the Last Days
"There will be food shortages." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:5, 6, 8) Since 1914 there have been at least 20 major famines. Afflicted ares include Bangladesh, Burundi, Cambodia, China, Ethiopia, Greece, India, Nigeria, Russia, Rwanda, Somalia and Sudan. But famine is not always caused by a lack of food. "The world's food supply over recent decades has grown faster than its population," concluded a group of agricultural scientists and economists. "But because at least 800 million people remain in deep poverty...they are unable to purchase enough of the abundance to lift them out of chronic nutrition." Political meddling is involved in other cases. Dr. Abdelgalil Elmekki of the University of Toronto cites two examples in which thousands starved while their countries were exporting massive amounts of food. The governments seemed far more concerned with raising foreign currency to finance their wars than with feeding their citizens. Dr. Elmekki's conclusion? Famine is often "a matter of distribution and government policy."
"Pestilences." (Luke 21:11; Revelation 6:8) The Spanish influenza of 1918-19 claimed at least 21 million lives. "The world had never in history been ravaged by a killer that slew so many human beings so quickly," writes A.A. Hoehling in The Great Epidemic. Today, pestilences rage on. Each year, cancer kills five million people, diarrheal diseases claim the lives of more than three million infants and children, and tuberculosis slays three million. Respiratory infections, mainly pneumonia, annually kill 3.5 million youngsters under five years of age. And a staggering 2.5 billion - half the world's population - suffer from sicknesses that stem from insufficient or contaminated water and poor sanitation. AIDS looms as a further reminder that man, despite his insignificant medical accopmlishments, is incapable of eradicating pestilences.
"Men will be.....lovers of money." (2 Timothy 3:2) In lands around the world, people seem to have an insatiable hunger for greater wealth. "Success" is often measured by the size of one's paycheck, "accomplishment" by how much one owns. "Materialism will continue to be one of the driving forces in American society.... and an increasingly important force in other major markets as well," declared the vice president of an advertising agency. Is this happening where you live?
"Disobedience to parents." (2 Timothy 3:2) Present-day parent, teachers and others have firsthand evidence that many children are disprespectful and disobedient. Some of these youngsters are either reacting to or imitating their parents' misbehavior. Increasing numbers of children are losing faith in - and rebelling against - school, the law, religion and their parents. "As a trend," says one veteran schoolteacher, "they seem to have very little respect for anything." happily, though, many God-fearing children are exemplary in behavior.
Features Of The Last Days-A lack of natural affection:continued
"There will be food shortages." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:5, 6, 8) Since 1914 there have been at least 20 major famines. Afflicted ares include Bangladesh, Burundi, Cambodia, China, Ethiopia, Greece, India, Nigeria, Russia, Rwanda, Somalia and Sudan. But famine is not always caused by a lack of food. "The world's food supply over recent decades has grown faster than its population," concluded a group of agricultural scientists and economists. "But because at least 800 million people remain in deep poverty...they are unable to purchase enough of the abundance to lift them out of chronic nutrition." Political meddling is involved in other cases. Dr. Abdelgalil Elmekki of the University of Toronto cites two examples in which thousands starved while their countries were exporting massive amounts of food. The governments seemed far more concerned with raising foreign currency to finance their wars than with feeding their citizens. Dr. Elmekki's conclusion? Famine is often "a matter of distribution and government policy."
"Pestilences." (Luke 21:11; Revelation 6:8) The Spanish influenza of 1918-19 claimed at least 21 million lives. "The world had never in history been ravaged by a killer that slew so many human beings so quickly," writes A.A. Hoehling in The Great Epidemic. Today, pestilences rage on. Each year, cancer kills five million people, diarrheal diseases claim the lives of more than three million infants and children, and tuberculosis slays three million. Respiratory infections, mainly pneumonia, annually kill 3.5 million youngsters under five years of age. And a staggering 2.5 billion - half the world's population - suffer from sicknesses that stem from insufficient or contaminated water and poor sanitation. AIDS looms as a further reminder that man, despite his insignificant medical accopmlishments, is incapable of eradicating pestilences.
"Men will be.....lovers of money." (2 Timothy 3:2) In lands around the world, people seem to have an insatiable hunger for greater wealth. "Success" is often measured by the size of one's paycheck, "accomplishment" by how much one owns. "Materialism will continue to be one of the driving forces in American society.... and an increasingly important force in other major markets as well," declared the vice president of an advertising agency. Is this happening where you live?
"Disobedience to parents." (2 Timothy 3:2) Present-day parent, teachers and others have firsthand evidence that many children are disprespectful and disobedient. Some of these youngsters are either reacting to or imitating their parents' misbehavior. Increasing numbers of children are losing faith in - and rebelling against - school, the law, religion and their parents. "As a trend," says one veteran schoolteacher, "they seem to have very little respect for anything." happily, though, many God-fearing children are exemplary in behavior.
Features Of The Last Days-A lack of natural affection:continued
3.16.2004
Features Of The Last Days
"Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:4) Writer Ernest Hemingway called World War I "the most colossal, murderous, mismanaged butchery that has ever taken place on earth." According to the book The World in the Crucible -1914-1919, this was "a new scope of war, the first total war in the experience of mankind. Its duration, intensity and scale exceeded anthing previously known or generally expected." Then came World War II, which proved much more destructive than World War I. " the twentieth century," says professor of history Hugh Thomas, "has been dominated by the machine gun, the tank, the B-52, the nuclear bomb and finally, the missile. It has been marked by wars more bloody and destructive than those of any other age." True, much was said about disarmament after the Cold War ended. Still, one report estimates that after proposed reductions some 10,000 to 20,000 nuclear warheads will remain - more than 900 times the firepower used during World War II.
Some Features Of The Last Days
* Unprecedented warfare. - Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:4.
* Famine. - Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:5, 6, 8.
* Pestilences. - Luke 21:11; Revelation 6:8.
* Increasing lawlessness. - Matthew 24:12.
* Ruining of the earth. - Revelation 11:18.
* Earthquakes.- Matthew 24:7
* Critical times hard to deal with. - 2 Timothy 3:1.
* Inordinate love of money. - 2 Timothy 3:2.
* Disobedience to parents. - 2 Timothy 3:2.
* A lack of natural affection. - 2 Timothy 3:3.
* Loving pleasures rather than God. - 2 Timothy 3:4.
* A lack of self-control. - 2 Timothy 3:3.
* Without love of goodness. - 2 Timothy 3:3.
* Taking no note of the impending danger. - Matthew 24:39.
* Ridiculers reject proof of the last days. - 2 Peter 3:3, 4.
* Global preaching of God's Kingdom. - Matthew 24:14.
Continuation of Features Of The Last Days- next time
"Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom." (Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:4) Writer Ernest Hemingway called World War I "the most colossal, murderous, mismanaged butchery that has ever taken place on earth." According to the book The World in the Crucible -1914-1919, this was "a new scope of war, the first total war in the experience of mankind. Its duration, intensity and scale exceeded anthing previously known or generally expected." Then came World War II, which proved much more destructive than World War I. " the twentieth century," says professor of history Hugh Thomas, "has been dominated by the machine gun, the tank, the B-52, the nuclear bomb and finally, the missile. It has been marked by wars more bloody and destructive than those of any other age." True, much was said about disarmament after the Cold War ended. Still, one report estimates that after proposed reductions some 10,000 to 20,000 nuclear warheads will remain - more than 900 times the firepower used during World War II.
Some Features Of The Last Days
* Unprecedented warfare. - Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:4.
* Famine. - Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:5, 6, 8.
* Pestilences. - Luke 21:11; Revelation 6:8.
* Increasing lawlessness. - Matthew 24:12.
* Ruining of the earth. - Revelation 11:18.
* Earthquakes.- Matthew 24:7
* Critical times hard to deal with. - 2 Timothy 3:1.
* Inordinate love of money. - 2 Timothy 3:2.
* Disobedience to parents. - 2 Timothy 3:2.
* A lack of natural affection. - 2 Timothy 3:3.
* Loving pleasures rather than God. - 2 Timothy 3:4.
* A lack of self-control. - 2 Timothy 3:3.
* Without love of goodness. - 2 Timothy 3:3.
* Taking no note of the impending danger. - Matthew 24:39.
* Ridiculers reject proof of the last days. - 2 Peter 3:3, 4.
* Global preaching of God's Kingdom. - Matthew 24:14.
Continuation of Features Of The Last Days- next time
3.13.2004
These Are The Last Days
How did our turbulent world get to this point? Where are we heading? have you ever asked such questions? Many feel somewhat lost when they look at the world scene. Realities such as warfare, disease and crime leave people wondering what the future holds. Government leaders offer little hope. However, a reliable explanation of these distressing days is available from God in his Word. The Bible reliably helps us to see where we are in the stream of time. It shows us that we are in "the last days" of the present system of things.-2 Timothy 3:1.
Consider, for example, the answer Jesus gave to some questions raised by his disciples. Three days before Jesus died, they asked him: " What will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?" (Matthew 24:3) In reply, Jesus told of specific world events and situations that would clearly show that this ungodly system had entered its last days.
As shown in the preceding chapter, Bible chronology leads to the conclusion that God's Kingdom has already begun to rule. But how can that be? Things have become worse, not better. Actually, this is a strong indication that God's Kingdom has begun ruling. Why so? Well, Psalm 110:2 informs us that for a time Jesus would rule 'in the midst of his enemies.' Indeed, his first act as heavenly King was to cast Satan and his demon angels down to the vicinity of the earth. (Revelation 12:9) What was the effect? It was just what Revelation 12:12 foretold: "Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing he has a short period of time." We are now living in "that short period of time."
Not surprisingly, therefore, when Jesus was asked what the sign of his presence and of the conclusion of the system of things would be, his reply was sobering. Various components of the sign are in this one: Some Important Events Related To God's Kingdom, which was two blogs before this one, I am doing. As you can see, the Christian apostles Paul, Peter and John provide us with further details concerning the last days. True, most features of the sign and of the last days involve distressing situations. Yet, the fulfillment of these prophecies should convince us that this wicked system is near its end. Let us take a look at some of the principal feature of the last days.
Next time: Features Of The Last Days
How did our turbulent world get to this point? Where are we heading? have you ever asked such questions? Many feel somewhat lost when they look at the world scene. Realities such as warfare, disease and crime leave people wondering what the future holds. Government leaders offer little hope. However, a reliable explanation of these distressing days is available from God in his Word. The Bible reliably helps us to see where we are in the stream of time. It shows us that we are in "the last days" of the present system of things.-2 Timothy 3:1.
Consider, for example, the answer Jesus gave to some questions raised by his disciples. Three days before Jesus died, they asked him: " What will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?" (Matthew 24:3) In reply, Jesus told of specific world events and situations that would clearly show that this ungodly system had entered its last days.
As shown in the preceding chapter, Bible chronology leads to the conclusion that God's Kingdom has already begun to rule. But how can that be? Things have become worse, not better. Actually, this is a strong indication that God's Kingdom has begun ruling. Why so? Well, Psalm 110:2 informs us that for a time Jesus would rule 'in the midst of his enemies.' Indeed, his first act as heavenly King was to cast Satan and his demon angels down to the vicinity of the earth. (Revelation 12:9) What was the effect? It was just what Revelation 12:12 foretold: "Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing he has a short period of time." We are now living in "that short period of time."
Not surprisingly, therefore, when Jesus was asked what the sign of his presence and of the conclusion of the system of things would be, his reply was sobering. Various components of the sign are in this one: Some Important Events Related To God's Kingdom, which was two blogs before this one, I am doing. As you can see, the Christian apostles Paul, Peter and John provide us with further details concerning the last days. True, most features of the sign and of the last days involve distressing situations. Yet, the fulfillment of these prophecies should convince us that this wicked system is near its end. Let us take a look at some of the principal feature of the last days.
Next time: Features Of The Last Days
Resignation From Adulthood
I am hereby officially tendering my resignation as an adult. I have decided I would like to accept the responsibilties of a 7 year-old again.
I want to go to McDonad's and think that it is a four - star restaurant.
I want to sail sticks across a fresh mud puddle and make a sidewalk with rocks.
I want to think M&M's are better than money because you can eat them.
I want to lie under a big oak tree and run a lemonade stand with my friends on a hot summer's day.
I want to return to a time when life was simple. When all you knew were colors, multiplication tables and nursery rhymes, but that didn't bother you, because you didn't know you were blissfully unaware of all the things that should make you worried or upset.
I want to think the world is fair. That everyone is honest and good.
I want to believe that anything is possible.
I want to be oblivious to the complexities of life and be overly excited by the little things again.
I want to live simple again.
I don't want my day to consist of computer crashes, mountains of paperwork, depressing news, how to survive more days in the month than there is money in the bank, doctor's bills, gossip and illness.
I want to believe in the power of smiles, hugs, a kind word, truth, justice, peace, dreams, the imagination, mankind and making angels in the snow.
So...here's my checkbook and my car keys, my credit card bills and my T4 statements. I am officially resigning from adulthood. And if you want to discuss it further, you'll have to catch me first, cause...."Tag! You're it.!
I am hereby officially tendering my resignation as an adult. I have decided I would like to accept the responsibilties of a 7 year-old again.
I want to go to McDonad's and think that it is a four - star restaurant.
I want to sail sticks across a fresh mud puddle and make a sidewalk with rocks.
I want to think M&M's are better than money because you can eat them.
I want to lie under a big oak tree and run a lemonade stand with my friends on a hot summer's day.
I want to return to a time when life was simple. When all you knew were colors, multiplication tables and nursery rhymes, but that didn't bother you, because you didn't know you were blissfully unaware of all the things that should make you worried or upset.
I want to think the world is fair. That everyone is honest and good.
I want to believe that anything is possible.
I want to be oblivious to the complexities of life and be overly excited by the little things again.
I want to live simple again.
I don't want my day to consist of computer crashes, mountains of paperwork, depressing news, how to survive more days in the month than there is money in the bank, doctor's bills, gossip and illness.
I want to believe in the power of smiles, hugs, a kind word, truth, justice, peace, dreams, the imagination, mankind and making angels in the snow.
So...here's my checkbook and my car keys, my credit card bills and my T4 statements. I am officially resigning from adulthood. And if you want to discuss it further, you'll have to catch me first, cause...."Tag! You're it.!
3.10.2004
Kingdom Rule - When?
"Lord, are you restoring the kingdom to Israel at this time?" This question posed by Jesus' disciples revealed that as yet they did not know the purpose of God's Kingdom and the appointed time for its rule to begin. Warning them not to speculate about the matter, Jesus said: "It does not belong to you to get knowledge of the times or the seasons which the Father has placed in his own jurisdiction." Jesus knew that his rulership over the earth was reserved for the future, long after his resurrection and ascension to heaven. (Acts 1:6-11; Luke 19:11, 12, 15) The Scriptures had foretold this. How so?
Prophetically referring to Jesus as "Lord" King david said: " The utterance of Jehovah to my Lord is: 'Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies as a stool for your feet.'" (Psalm 110:1; compare Acts 2:31-36) This prophecy indicates that Jesus' rulership would not begin immediately after his ascension to heaven. Rather, he would wait at God's right hand. (Hebrew 10:12,13) How long would this waiting go on? When would his rulership begin? The Bible helps us to find the answers.
The only city in all the earth upon which Jehovah placed his name was Jerusalem. (I Kings 11:36) It was also the capital of a God-approved earthly kingdom typical of God's heavenly Kingdom. Therefore, the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 607 B.C.E. was very significant. This event marked the beginning of a lengthy interruption of God's direct rule over his people on earth. Some six centuries later, Jesus indicated that this period of interrupted rule was still in effect, for he said: "Jerusalem will be trampled on by the nations, until the appointed times of the nations are fulfilled." Luke 21:24.
During "the appointed times of the nations," worldly governments would be allowed to interrupt rulership approved by God. That period began with the destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E., and Daniel indicated that it would go on for "seven times." (Daniel 4:23-25) How long is that? The Bible shows that three and a half "times" equal 1,260 days. (Revelation 12:6, 14) Twice that period, or seven times, would be 2,520 days. But nothing noteworthy happened at the end of that short period of time. By applying "a day for a year" to Daniel's prophecy and counting 2,520 years from 607 B.C.E., however, we arrive at the year 1914 C.E. - Numbers 14:34; Ezekiel 4:6.
Did Jesus begin to reign in heaven at that time? Scriptural reasons for saying that he did will be discussed next time. Of course, the beginning of Jesus' rule would not be marked by immediate peace on the earth. Revelation 12:7-12 shows that just after receiving the Kingdom, Jesus would oust Satan and the demon angels from heaven. This would mean woe for the earth, but it is heartening to read that the Devil has only "a short period of time" left. Soon, we will be able to rejoice not only because God's Kingdom rules but also because it will bring blessings to the earth and obedient mankind. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How do we know that this will happen soon?
"Lord, are you restoring the kingdom to Israel at this time?" This question posed by Jesus' disciples revealed that as yet they did not know the purpose of God's Kingdom and the appointed time for its rule to begin. Warning them not to speculate about the matter, Jesus said: "It does not belong to you to get knowledge of the times or the seasons which the Father has placed in his own jurisdiction." Jesus knew that his rulership over the earth was reserved for the future, long after his resurrection and ascension to heaven. (Acts 1:6-11; Luke 19:11, 12, 15) The Scriptures had foretold this. How so?
Prophetically referring to Jesus as "Lord" King david said: " The utterance of Jehovah to my Lord is: 'Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies as a stool for your feet.'" (Psalm 110:1; compare Acts 2:31-36) This prophecy indicates that Jesus' rulership would not begin immediately after his ascension to heaven. Rather, he would wait at God's right hand. (Hebrew 10:12,13) How long would this waiting go on? When would his rulership begin? The Bible helps us to find the answers.
The only city in all the earth upon which Jehovah placed his name was Jerusalem. (I Kings 11:36) It was also the capital of a God-approved earthly kingdom typical of God's heavenly Kingdom. Therefore, the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 607 B.C.E. was very significant. This event marked the beginning of a lengthy interruption of God's direct rule over his people on earth. Some six centuries later, Jesus indicated that this period of interrupted rule was still in effect, for he said: "Jerusalem will be trampled on by the nations, until the appointed times of the nations are fulfilled." Luke 21:24.
During "the appointed times of the nations," worldly governments would be allowed to interrupt rulership approved by God. That period began with the destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E., and Daniel indicated that it would go on for "seven times." (Daniel 4:23-25) How long is that? The Bible shows that three and a half "times" equal 1,260 days. (Revelation 12:6, 14) Twice that period, or seven times, would be 2,520 days. But nothing noteworthy happened at the end of that short period of time. By applying "a day for a year" to Daniel's prophecy and counting 2,520 years from 607 B.C.E., however, we arrive at the year 1914 C.E. - Numbers 14:34; Ezekiel 4:6.
Did Jesus begin to reign in heaven at that time? Scriptural reasons for saying that he did will be discussed next time. Of course, the beginning of Jesus' rule would not be marked by immediate peace on the earth. Revelation 12:7-12 shows that just after receiving the Kingdom, Jesus would oust Satan and the demon angels from heaven. This would mean woe for the earth, but it is heartening to read that the Devil has only "a short period of time" left. Soon, we will be able to rejoice not only because God's Kingdom rules but also because it will bring blessings to the earth and obedient mankind. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How do we know that this will happen soon?
3.08.2004
The Reality Of God's Kingdom
Imagine that a fire has destroyed your home. Now a friend who has the means to do so promises to help rebuild your house and provide food for your family. If that friend has always told you the truth, would you not believe him? Suppose you came home from work the next day and found that workers were already starting to clean up the debris from the fire and that food had been brought for your family. No doubt you would be completely confident that with the passing of time, things would not only be restored but would even be better than before.
Similarly, Jehovah give us assurance of the Kingdom's reality. As shown in the Bible book of Hebrews, many facets of the law foreshadowed the Kingdom arrangement. (Hebrews 10:1) Foregleams of God's Kingdom were also evident in the earthly kingdom of Israel. That was no ordinary government, for the rulers sat upon "Jehovah's throne." (I Chronicles 29:23) Moreover, it had been foretold: "The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him the obedience of the people will belong." (Genesis 49:10) Yes, it was into this Judean line of kings that Jesus, the permanent King of God's government, was to be born. --Luke 1:32,33.
The foundation of God's Messianic Kingdom was laid with the selection of Jesus' apostles. (Ephesians 2:19,20; Revelation 21:14) These were the first 144,000 who would rule in heaven as associate kings with Jesus Christ. While on earth, these perspective corulers would spearhead a witnessing campaign, in keeping with Jesus' command: "Go...and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." - Matthew 28:19.
The command to make disciples is now being obeyed on an unprecedented scale. Jehovah's Witnesses are proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom all around the globe, in harmony with Jesus' prophetic words: "This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all nations; and then the end will come." (Matthew 24:14) As one aspect of the Kingdom preaching work, a great educational program is being carried out. Those who submit to the laws and principles of God's Kingdom are already experiencing a peace and unity that human governments cannot achieve. All of this give clear evidence that God's Kingdom is a reality?
Jehovah told the Israelites: " You are my witnesses,... even my servant whom I have chosen." (Isaiah 43:10-12) Jesus, "the Faithful Witness, "zealously declared the good news of the Kingdom. (Revelation 1:5; Matthew 4:17) So it is appropriate that the present-day Kingdom proclaimers bear the divinely appointed name Jehovah's Witnesses. But why do the Witnesses spend so much time and effort talking to others about God's Kingdom? They do this because the Kingdom is mankind's only hope. Human governments break down sooner or later, but God's Kingdom never will. Isaiah 9:6,7 calls its Ruler, Jesus, the "Prince of Peace" and adds: "To the abundance of the princely rule and to peace there will be no end." God's Kingdom is not like man's governments - here today and overthrown tomorrow. Indeed, Daniel 2:44 says: "The God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be brought to ruin. And the kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people... It itself will stand to times indefinite.
What human king could bring about the elimination of war, crime, sickness, starvation and homelessness? Furthermore, what earthly ruler could resurrect those who have died? God's Kingdom and its King will address these matters. The Kingdom will not prove defective, like malfunctioning equipment that continually needs repair. Rather, God's Kingdom will succeed, for Jehovah promises: " My word that goes forth from my mouth...will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that for which I have sent it." (Isaiah 55:11) God's purpose will not fail, but when was Kingdom rule to begin?
Some Important Events Related To God's Kingdom
Jehovah announces his purpose to produce a "seed" that would crush the head of the Serpent, Satan the Devil. - Genesis 3:15.
In 1943 B.C.E., Jehovah indicates that this "seed" would be a human descendant of Abraham. - Genesis 12:1-37; 22:18.
The Law convenant given to Israel in 1513 B.C.E. provides "a shadow of the good things to come." Exodus 24:6-8; Hebrews 10:1.
The earthly kingdom of Israel commences in 1117 B.C.E. and it continues later in the line of David. - I Samuel 11:15; 2 Samuel 7:8,16.
Jerusalem is destroyed in 607 B.C.E., and "the appointed times of the nations" begin. -2 Kings 25:8-10,25,26; Luke 21:24.
In 29 C.E., Jesus is anointed as King-Designate and proceeds with his earthly ministry. - Matthew 3:16,17; 4:17; 21:9-11.
In 33 C.E. Jesus ascends to heaven, there to wait at God's right hand until his rule begins. - Acts 5:30,31; Hebrews 10:12,13.
Jesus is enthroned in the heavenly Kingdom in 1914 C.E. as "the appointed times of the nations" end. - Revelation 12:9-12.
Jesus oversees the worldwide preaching of the good news of God's Kingdom. - Matthew 24:14; 28:19,20
Next time:Kingdom Rule -When?
Imagine that a fire has destroyed your home. Now a friend who has the means to do so promises to help rebuild your house and provide food for your family. If that friend has always told you the truth, would you not believe him? Suppose you came home from work the next day and found that workers were already starting to clean up the debris from the fire and that food had been brought for your family. No doubt you would be completely confident that with the passing of time, things would not only be restored but would even be better than before.
Similarly, Jehovah give us assurance of the Kingdom's reality. As shown in the Bible book of Hebrews, many facets of the law foreshadowed the Kingdom arrangement. (Hebrews 10:1) Foregleams of God's Kingdom were also evident in the earthly kingdom of Israel. That was no ordinary government, for the rulers sat upon "Jehovah's throne." (I Chronicles 29:23) Moreover, it had been foretold: "The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him the obedience of the people will belong." (Genesis 49:10) Yes, it was into this Judean line of kings that Jesus, the permanent King of God's government, was to be born. --Luke 1:32,33.
The foundation of God's Messianic Kingdom was laid with the selection of Jesus' apostles. (Ephesians 2:19,20; Revelation 21:14) These were the first 144,000 who would rule in heaven as associate kings with Jesus Christ. While on earth, these perspective corulers would spearhead a witnessing campaign, in keeping with Jesus' command: "Go...and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." - Matthew 28:19.
The command to make disciples is now being obeyed on an unprecedented scale. Jehovah's Witnesses are proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom all around the globe, in harmony with Jesus' prophetic words: "This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all nations; and then the end will come." (Matthew 24:14) As one aspect of the Kingdom preaching work, a great educational program is being carried out. Those who submit to the laws and principles of God's Kingdom are already experiencing a peace and unity that human governments cannot achieve. All of this give clear evidence that God's Kingdom is a reality?
Jehovah told the Israelites: " You are my witnesses,... even my servant whom I have chosen." (Isaiah 43:10-12) Jesus, "the Faithful Witness, "zealously declared the good news of the Kingdom. (Revelation 1:5; Matthew 4:17) So it is appropriate that the present-day Kingdom proclaimers bear the divinely appointed name Jehovah's Witnesses. But why do the Witnesses spend so much time and effort talking to others about God's Kingdom? They do this because the Kingdom is mankind's only hope. Human governments break down sooner or later, but God's Kingdom never will. Isaiah 9:6,7 calls its Ruler, Jesus, the "Prince of Peace" and adds: "To the abundance of the princely rule and to peace there will be no end." God's Kingdom is not like man's governments - here today and overthrown tomorrow. Indeed, Daniel 2:44 says: "The God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be brought to ruin. And the kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people... It itself will stand to times indefinite.
What human king could bring about the elimination of war, crime, sickness, starvation and homelessness? Furthermore, what earthly ruler could resurrect those who have died? God's Kingdom and its King will address these matters. The Kingdom will not prove defective, like malfunctioning equipment that continually needs repair. Rather, God's Kingdom will succeed, for Jehovah promises: " My word that goes forth from my mouth...will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that for which I have sent it." (Isaiah 55:11) God's purpose will not fail, but when was Kingdom rule to begin?
Some Important Events Related To God's Kingdom
Jehovah announces his purpose to produce a "seed" that would crush the head of the Serpent, Satan the Devil. - Genesis 3:15.
In 1943 B.C.E., Jehovah indicates that this "seed" would be a human descendant of Abraham. - Genesis 12:1-37; 22:18.
The Law convenant given to Israel in 1513 B.C.E. provides "a shadow of the good things to come." Exodus 24:6-8; Hebrews 10:1.
The earthly kingdom of Israel commences in 1117 B.C.E. and it continues later in the line of David. - I Samuel 11:15; 2 Samuel 7:8,16.
Jerusalem is destroyed in 607 B.C.E., and "the appointed times of the nations" begin. -2 Kings 25:8-10,25,26; Luke 21:24.
In 29 C.E., Jesus is anointed as King-Designate and proceeds with his earthly ministry. - Matthew 3:16,17; 4:17; 21:9-11.
In 33 C.E. Jesus ascends to heaven, there to wait at God's right hand until his rule begins. - Acts 5:30,31; Hebrews 10:12,13.
Jesus is enthroned in the heavenly Kingdom in 1914 C.E. as "the appointed times of the nations" end. - Revelation 12:9-12.
Jesus oversees the worldwide preaching of the good news of God's Kingdom. - Matthew 24:14; 28:19,20
Next time:Kingdom Rule -When?
3.07.2004
God Knows
When you are tired and discouraged from fruitless effort,
God knows how hard you have tried.
When you've cried so long your heart is in anguish,
God has counted your tears.
If you feel that your life is on hold and time has passed you by,
God is waiting for you.
When nothing makes sense and you are confused or frustrated,
God has the answer.
If suddenly your outlook is brighter and you find traces of hope,
God has whispered to you.
When things are going well and you have much to be thankful for,
God has blessed you.
When something joyful happens and you are filled with awe,
God has smiled upon you.
Remember that wherever you are or whatever you are feeling
God knows!
Unknown Author
"What I see convinces me God exists;
What I cannot see, confirms it."
~Anonymous
When you are tired and discouraged from fruitless effort,
God knows how hard you have tried.
When you've cried so long your heart is in anguish,
God has counted your tears.
If you feel that your life is on hold and time has passed you by,
God is waiting for you.
When nothing makes sense and you are confused or frustrated,
God has the answer.
If suddenly your outlook is brighter and you find traces of hope,
God has whispered to you.
When things are going well and you have much to be thankful for,
God has blessed you.
When something joyful happens and you are filled with awe,
God has smiled upon you.
Remember that wherever you are or whatever you are feeling
God knows!
Unknown Author
"What I see convinces me God exists;
What I cannot see, confirms it."
~Anonymous
3.04.2004
A Kingdom With A Purpose
Jehovah God has always been King, or Sovereign Ruler, of the universe. The fact that he created all things elevates him to that exalted position. (I Chronicles 29:11; Psalm 103:19; Acts 4:24) But the Kingdom that Jesus preached about is subsidiary, or secondary, to God's universal sovereignty. That Messianic Kingdom has a specific purpose, but what is it?
The first human pair rebelled against God's authority. Because of the issues raised, Jehovah chose to bring about a new expression of his sovereignty. God announced his purpose to produce a "seed" that would crush the Serpent, Satan, and remove the effects of mankind's inherited sin. The primary "seed" is Jesus Christ, and "the kingdom of God" is the agency that will utterly defeat Satan. By means of this Kingdom, Jesus Christ will restore rulership over the earth in Jehovah's name and will vindicate God's rightful sovereignty for all time. -- Genesis 3:15; Psalm 2:2-9.
According to one rendition of Jesus's words to wicked Pharisees, he said: "The kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:21, King James version) Did Jesus mean that the Kingdom was in the wicked hearts of those corrupt men? No. A more accurate translation of the original Greek reads: "The kingdom of God is in your midst." (New World Translation) Jesus, who was in their midst, thus referred to himself as the future King. Far from being something that a person has in his heart, God's Kingdom is a real operating government having a ruler and subjects, it is a heavenly government, for it is called both "the kingdom of the heavens" and the kingdom of God." (Matthew 13:11; Luke 8:10) In vision, the prophet Daniel beheld its Ruler as "someone like a son of man" brought before Almighty God and given lasting "rulership and dignity and kingdom, that the peoples, national groups and languages should all serve even him." (Daniel 7:13, 14) Who is this King? Well, the Bible calls Jesus Christ "the son of man." (Matthew 12:40; Luke 17:26) Yes, Jehovah designated his Son, Jesus Christ, to be King.
Jesus does not rule alone. With him are 144,000 who have been "bought from the earth" to be his associate kings and priests. (Revelation 5:9, 10; 14:1,3; Luke 22:28-30) The subjects of God's Kingdom will be a global family of humans who are submissive to Christ's leadership. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How, though, can we be sure that the Kingdom will actually vindicate God's sovereignty and restore paradisaic conditions to our earth?
Next time: The Reality Of God's Kingdom
Jehovah God has always been King, or Sovereign Ruler, of the universe. The fact that he created all things elevates him to that exalted position. (I Chronicles 29:11; Psalm 103:19; Acts 4:24) But the Kingdom that Jesus preached about is subsidiary, or secondary, to God's universal sovereignty. That Messianic Kingdom has a specific purpose, but what is it?
The first human pair rebelled against God's authority. Because of the issues raised, Jehovah chose to bring about a new expression of his sovereignty. God announced his purpose to produce a "seed" that would crush the Serpent, Satan, and remove the effects of mankind's inherited sin. The primary "seed" is Jesus Christ, and "the kingdom of God" is the agency that will utterly defeat Satan. By means of this Kingdom, Jesus Christ will restore rulership over the earth in Jehovah's name and will vindicate God's rightful sovereignty for all time. -- Genesis 3:15; Psalm 2:2-9.
According to one rendition of Jesus's words to wicked Pharisees, he said: "The kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:21, King James version) Did Jesus mean that the Kingdom was in the wicked hearts of those corrupt men? No. A more accurate translation of the original Greek reads: "The kingdom of God is in your midst." (New World Translation) Jesus, who was in their midst, thus referred to himself as the future King. Far from being something that a person has in his heart, God's Kingdom is a real operating government having a ruler and subjects, it is a heavenly government, for it is called both "the kingdom of the heavens" and the kingdom of God." (Matthew 13:11; Luke 8:10) In vision, the prophet Daniel beheld its Ruler as "someone like a son of man" brought before Almighty God and given lasting "rulership and dignity and kingdom, that the peoples, national groups and languages should all serve even him." (Daniel 7:13, 14) Who is this King? Well, the Bible calls Jesus Christ "the son of man." (Matthew 12:40; Luke 17:26) Yes, Jehovah designated his Son, Jesus Christ, to be King.
Jesus does not rule alone. With him are 144,000 who have been "bought from the earth" to be his associate kings and priests. (Revelation 5:9, 10; 14:1,3; Luke 22:28-30) The subjects of God's Kingdom will be a global family of humans who are submissive to Christ's leadership. (Psalm 72:7, 8) How, though, can we be sure that the Kingdom will actually vindicate God's sovereignty and restore paradisaic conditions to our earth?
Next time: The Reality Of God's Kingdom
3.01.2004
God's Kingdom Rules
Perhaps you have had the experience of buying a piece of equipment, only to find that it did not work. Let us say that you called a repairman. Shortly after he "fixed" the device, however, it broke down. How disappointing that was!
It is similar with human governments. Mankind has always desired a government that would ensure peace and happiness. Yet, strenuous efforts to repair the breakdowns in society have not been truly successful. A great many peace treaties have been made -- and then broken. Moreover, what government has been able to eradicate poverty,crime,disease and ecological ruin? man's rule is beyond repair. Even Israel's wise King Solomon asked: "As regards earthling man, how can he discern his way?" --Proverbs 20:24.
Do not despair! A stable world government is not just a dream. It was the theme of Jesus' preaching. He called it "the kingdom of God." and he taught his followers to pray for it. (Luke 11:2; 21:31) Of course, God's Kingdom is sometimes mentioned in religious circles. In fact, millions pray for it daily when they repeat the Lord's Prayer (also called the Our Father or model prayer). But people answer in various ways when asked, "What is God's Kingdom?" Some say, "It is in your heart, "Others call it heaven. The Bible gives a clear answer, as we shall see.
Next time: A Kingdom With A Purpose
Perhaps you have had the experience of buying a piece of equipment, only to find that it did not work. Let us say that you called a repairman. Shortly after he "fixed" the device, however, it broke down. How disappointing that was!
It is similar with human governments. Mankind has always desired a government that would ensure peace and happiness. Yet, strenuous efforts to repair the breakdowns in society have not been truly successful. A great many peace treaties have been made -- and then broken. Moreover, what government has been able to eradicate poverty,crime,disease and ecological ruin? man's rule is beyond repair. Even Israel's wise King Solomon asked: "As regards earthling man, how can he discern his way?" --Proverbs 20:24.
Do not despair! A stable world government is not just a dream. It was the theme of Jesus' preaching. He called it "the kingdom of God." and he taught his followers to pray for it. (Luke 11:2; 21:31) Of course, God's Kingdom is sometimes mentioned in religious circles. In fact, millions pray for it daily when they repeat the Lord's Prayer (also called the Our Father or model prayer). But people answer in various ways when asked, "What is God's Kingdom?" Some say, "It is in your heart, "Others call it heaven. The Bible gives a clear answer, as we shall see.
Next time: A Kingdom With A Purpose
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