 Ministering Worldwide Jesus Christ |
Challenge Of Faith Ministries Questions and Answer
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Ministering Worldwide Jesus Christ |
Challenge Of Faith Ministries Questions and Answer
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Welcome
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Q. What is the meaning of the name "I AM" spoken to Moses in the Old Testament? Why would God use such a name? A. God did give a good word to Moses before the Israelites were delivered from their lengthy bondage in the land of Egypt. It was at Mount Moriah that Moses had an encounter with God that transformed his life. God revealed in a very special way that HE is the Great "I AM!" It was in this moment that Moses was commissioned by God to go back to Egypt and there be used to deliver the Israelites from the hand of Pharaoh. When Moses asked "WHO SHALL I SAY HAS SENT ME" GOD ANSWERED, "TELL THEM "I AM" HAS SENT YOU, I AM THAT I AM!" Exodus 3:13-14 GOD was here declaring that HE is the "EVER PRESENT ONE" "WITHOUT BEGINNING AND WITHOUT END" THE "ALPHA AND OMEGA!" "I AM" NEVER A TIME WHEN GOD WAS NOT NEVER A TIME WHEN HE WILL NOT BE! HE IS THE ETERNAL GOD OF CREATION AND OF OUR SALVATION! Now, "IN THE FULLNESS OF TIME" with the appearance of the long promised MESSIAH REDEEMER into our world, the Apostle John wrote, "IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE "WORD" AND THE "WORD" WAS WITH GOD, AND "GOD" WAS THE "WORD!" AND THE "WORD" BECAME "FLESH" AND DWELT AMONG US, AND WE BEHELD HIS GLORY FULL OF GRACE AND TRUTH." John 1:1-14 O yes Friend, the Great "I AM" touched this Earth when the Eternal Son of God, JESUS CHRIST "TOOK UPON HIMSELF THE FORM OF A SERVANT AND WAS FOUND IN THE LIKENESS OF MEN." Philippians 2:7-8 As "TRUE MAN" and "TRUE GOD" JESUS ON MANY OCCASIONS IN HIS MINISTRY REFERRED TO HIMSELF AS THE GREAT "I AM" for HE is "GOD" - HE is "THE EVER PRESENT ONE" - HE is "ETERNAL" and is able to meet the "NEEDS" of all who will put their trust in HIM. When you need "SECURITY" consider carefully these words of JESUS who said, "BEFORE ABRAHAM WAS, "I AM" Did you hear that clearly? JESUS EXISTING BEFORE ABRAHAM WAS EVEN BORN? Christ is assuring us that He is the "EVER PRESENT ONE" who will "NEVER LEAVE US NOR FORSAKE US!" Hebrews 13:5 HE again comforts our hearts with these wonderful words "I AM" WITH YOU ALWAYS, EVEN UNTO THE END OF THE AGE." Matthew 28:31 When you feel you are in the "DARK" Jesus says "I AM" THE "LIGHT" OF THE WORLD. HE THAT FOLLOWS ME SHALL NOT WALK IN "DARKNESS" BUT HAVE THE LIGHT OF LIFE." John 8:12 When you are Spiritually "HUNGRY" in need of Bread to satisfy your Eternal Soul, Jesus says, "I AM" THE BREAD OF LIFE, HE THAT COMES TO ME SHALL NEVER HUNGER, AND HE THAT BELIEVES IN ME SHALL NEVER THIRST!" John 6:35 When you sense that you are "LOST" searching and seeking to find your way, Jesus says, "I AM" THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE, NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT BY ME." John 14:6 When you are searching for that "DOOR" that open to Eternal Life with God, Jesus says, "I AM" THE "DOOR" BY ME IF ANYONE ENTER IN, HE SHALL BE SAVED, AND GO IN AND OUT AND FIND PASTURE." John 10:9 When you carry the heavy guilt of "SIN" and long for forgiveness, Jesus says, "I AM" THE GOOD SHEPHERD! THE GOOD SHEPHERD GIVES HIS LIFE FOR THE SHEEP!" John 10:11 "I AM" COME TO SEEK AND TO SAVE THE LOST!" O Friend, the Good Shepherd died on that Cross at Calvary and paid for all our sins to set us free from its guilt and penalty. "IN CHRIST WE HAVE REDEMPTION THROUGH HIS BLOOD. THE "FORGIVENESS OF SINS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RICHES OF GOD'S GRACE THAT "HE LAVISHED" ON US WITH ALL WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING." Ephesians 1:7 When you long for an "ABIDING RELATIONSHIP" Jesus again declares, "I AM" THE VINE, YOU ARE THE BRANCHES, HE THAT "ABIDES" IN ME AND I IN HIM, THE SAME BRINGS FORTH MUCH FRUIT, FOR WITHOUT ME YOU CAN DO NOTHING." John 15:5 When you face the issue of "DEATH" how glorious to hear the words of Jesus who said, "I AM" THE RESURRECTION AND THE LIFE, HE THAT BELIEVES IN ME THOUGH HE WERE "DEAD" YET SHALL HE "LIVE," AND WHOSOEVER LIVES AND BELIEVES IN ME SHALL NEVER DIE." John 11:25-26 Friend, only GOD can make such promises that fills our hearts with Peace and Joy! JESUS CHRIST, GOD manifested in flesh, is the GREAT "I AM" and HE IS ABLE TO DO THE EXCEEDING ABUNDANTLY BEYOND ALL WE ASK OR THINK!" "HE IS ABLE TO SAVE TO THE UTTERMOST ALL WHO COME TO GOD BY HIM." Hebrews 7:25 WHEN YOU HAVE CHRIST, THE GREAT "I AM" YOU HAVE ALL THAT YOU NEED FOR TIME AND ETERNITY!
Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com ********************************************************************************* Q. The tension in the Mid East continues between ISRAEL and the PALESTINIANS. What are your thoughts on the present talks about dividing the Holy City of the Jews, the City of Jerusalem? A. First of all, I want to make it very clear that the answer I am about to give is not about who I am "FOR" or "AGAINST." I love the Jews, and I love the Palestinians. I love the Europeans, and I love the Africans and those in Asia, and the rest of the world. I love them because "GOD SO LOVED THE "WORLD" THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, THAT WHOEVER "BELIEVES" IN HIM SHALL NOT PERISH BUT HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE." John 3:16 "The Gospel is the "POWER OF GOD" unto Salvation to "EVERYONE" who Believes." Romans 1:16 "Beloved, If God so LOVED US, we also ought to LOVE ONE ANOTHER." I John 4:11 With that "FOUNDATION" laid, and since it is obvious that I BELIEVE THE HOLY, INFALLIBLE WORD OF GOD, my answer therefore, is based upon what GOD has revealed to us in the Scriptures. Going back to the days of Abraham as recorded in the book of Genesis, the Book of Beginnings, we read that God made a very important PROMISE to this man of Faith. He PROMISED to give to him and to his DESCENDANTS, a land in which they would live. We read, "Then Abram took Sarah his wife....and they Departed to go to the Land of "CANAAN." And the LORD APPEARED TO ABRAM AND SAID, "TO YOUR DESCENDANTS, I WILL GIVE THIS LAND." Genesis 12 5-7 But notice further what God PROMISED, for we read, "The LORD made a Covenant with Abram, saying, "To your DESCENDANTS I have given the LAND FROM THE RIVER OF EGYPT TO THE GREAT RIVER, THE RIVER EUPHRATES." Genesis 15:18 WOW! If you check a Map of this area, you will see that it covers a lot of territory that God PROMISED to this Man of Faith. Now remember, the "PROMISE" to Abraham was to continue through his Descendants. That meant Abraham and Sarah had to give birth to a son in order that this PROMISE be fulfilled. Growing Old in Age, and still having no son, Sarah "FOOLISHLY" felt she had to help God fulfill His Word, so she told her husband to have a son through Hagar, her maid, which he did. They named the Child ISHMAEL! However, God was not pleased with what they had done, and said to Abraham, "I WILL BLESS SARAH AND GIVE YOU A SON THROUGH HER!" Genesis 17:16 Abraham thought it was impossible, for he said to God, "Shall a Child be born to a man who is ONE HUNDRED YEARS OLD? And shall Sarah, who is NINETY YEARS OLD, bear a Child? He begged God that "ISHMAEL MIGHT LIVE BEFORE HIM." THE ANSWER FROM GOD WAS "NO!" "SARAH, YOUR WIFE SHALL BEAR YOU A SON, AND YOU SHALL CALL HIS NAME "ISAAC!" I WILL ESTABLISH MY COVENANT WITH "HIM" FOR AN EVERLASTING COVENANT, AND WITH HIS DESCENDANTS AFTER HIM." Genesis 17:19-20 How long would this COVENANT be VALID? Would it be VALID only when they were in the LAND? If they were ever DISPLACED, and TAKEN away captive by other Nations, would they no longer have the right to this land? THE ANSWER IS CLEAR FROM GOD HIMSELF, FOR GOD SAID, "I WILL ESTABLISH MY COVENANT WITH "ISAAC" FOR AN "EVERLASTING COVENANT" AND WITH HIS "DESCENDANTS!" THAT COVENANT WOULD "NEVER" BE TERMINATED! I am not going to get involved with all the "POLITICAL" ramifications of the present hour as the Leaders of the World seek to find a way to bring Peace to this troubled area, but my Friend, THE LAND BELONGS TO ISRAEL, after all, "God Owns the Cattle on a Thousand Hills and the Wealth in every Mine; The Earth is the Lord's and all its Fullness!" and He has the Right to Give it to whomever He wills. Yes, Friend, in "LOVE" I say, the Land belongs to Israel, by the Authority of the Eternal God of all Creation and Salvation. We must face the fact that this is GOD'S WORLD AND NOT OUR OWN, and above all, remember, GOD'S LOVE UNTO ETERNAL SALVATION THROUGH CHRIST'S DEATH AND RESURRECTION FROM THE DEAD, IS FOR "ALL" WHO WILL BELIEVE! When JESUS CHRIST comes again and the AGE OF GRACE has come to a conclusion, and the time of JACOB'S TROUBLE begins in that SEVEN YEAR period called the "GREAT TRIBULATION" whatever has not yet been completely fulfilled about this "PROMISE" to Abraham, WILL BE FULFILLED, AND YOU CAN COUNT ON THAT, FOR GOD "NEVER" BREAKS A PROMISE. Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com ************************************************************************** Q. There are some who say Jesus Christ never really died! I read from another source that suggested it was Judas who actually died on the Cross and not Jesus. Could this be true?
A. NO! NEVER! Now please note: I am "NOT" suggesting that the OBITUARY below was actually published back in 33 AD! Of Course Not! But, I do believe the content does send a strong message of what happened when Jesus was at the approximate age of 33. HOWEVER, there is one "IMPORTANT EXCEPTION" contained in this OBITUARY, and that is the thought that Jesus was the Son of Joseph and Mary, as many believed. The fact of the matter is that JESUS was born of the Virgin Mary who conceived and brought forth her first born Son by the Power of God the Holy Spirit! If you will read the Gospel of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, you will find "SUFFICIENT EVIDENCE" THAT JESUS DID DIE ON THAT CROSS AT CALVARY, AND ON THAT PRECIOUS DAY, DYING AS OUR "SUBSTITUTE" PAID THE SUPREME PRICE FOR OUR ETERNAL SALVATION.
The glorious truth of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ DOES NOT END THERE IN A TOMB, but on that glorious First Day of the Week, "UP FROM THE GRAVE HE AROSE, WITH A MIGHTY TRIUMPH O'ER HIS FOES. HE AROSE THE VICTOR OVER THE DARK DOMAIN, AND HE LIVES FOREVER WITH HIS SAINTS TO REIGN.
HE AROSE! HE AROSE! HALLELUJAH! CHRIST AROSE.
BECAUSE HE LIVES, WE TOO WHO BELIEVE IN HIM AS LORD AND SAVIOR, SHALL LIVE WITH HIM ETERNALLY!
TRUST HIM FRIEND - JESUS NEVER FAILS INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO LOG ON TO WWW.CHALLENGEOFFAITH.ORG
Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com ************************************************************************************** Q. You have often stated the Bible is Absolutely Accurate in the fulfillment of Old Testament Prophecies. In one of your statements, you indicated that Daniel Chapter Nine predicted the time of the First Appearance of the Messiah. Can you explain? A. I would be most happy to explain, because there is no question that the Bible is indeed the Eternal, Infallible Word of God. When we celebrated the wonderful Day we call "THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRANCE OF CHRIST INTO JERUSALEM" this Day was of supreme significance. You recall the crowd of people gathered as Jesus rode into the City on a Lowly Donkey waving their Palm Branches and shouting, "Blessed is the KING who comes in the Name of the LORD; Hosanna to the SON of David; Hosanna in the Highest." As Jesus drew near, He saw the City, and "WEPT" over it saying, "If you had known, even you, "ESPECIALLY" in this "YOUR DAY" the things that make for your PEACE! BUT NOW THEY ARE HID FROM YOUR EYES." Luke 19:28-48 This is a direct fulfillment of the prophecy written "HUNDREDS" of years before by Zechariah who wrote: "Rejoice greatly, O Daughters of Zion! Shout, O Daughters of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you. He is Just and having Salvation. Lowly and riding on a Donkey, a Colt. the Foal of a Donkey." Zechariah 9:9 With this in mind, this Question arises! Should they have known the "TIME" and even the "DAY" when Messiah, the Christ, would be in their very presence as the Scripture Foretold? The answer is "YES!" Without a doubt, the "TIME" and I personally believe the "DAY" as well. It all centers on the account of the Prophecy found in the Book of Daniel, Chapter Nine, where Daniel writes, "Seventy weeks are determined upon thy People and upon thy Holy City Jerusalem. Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto "MESSIAH: the PRINCE, shall be SEVEN WEEKS and THREESCORE AND TWO WEEKS. (69 Weeks) The streets shall be built again, and the walls even in troublesome times. And after THREESCORE AND TWO WEEKS, SHALL MESSIAH BE "CUT OFF" BUT NOT FOR HIMSELF." Daniel 9:24-25 Now, two issues are very important to understand this Prophecy. FIRST: The Seventy Weeks are literally SEVENTY SEVENS OR 70 X 7 which means, the prophecy covers a period of 490 Years. A "WEEK" in this portion is not a Seven Day Week as we know it today, but, "ONE WEEK" equals SEVEN YEARS. You may ask how is this possible? Well, there are sufficient examples to show that this is not something NEW! Do you recall the account of JACOB, who had to work SEVEN YEARS for Laban, the Father of Rachael, the Love of his Heart. Laban said to Jacob, "Fulfill her "WEEK" and we will give you this one also for the service which you will serve with me still another "SEVEN YEARS!" Then Jacob did so, and fulfilled her "WEEK!" The tough part for Jacob was being DECEIVED by Laban, and having to work 14 YEARS to finally have Rachael as his Wife. Yes "TWO WEEKS!" Here we see a "WEEK" is a SEVEN YEAR PERIOD. Secondly, each year is "NOT" 365 days as we know it to be today, but, each year is 360 Days. Taking a quick look into the last SEVEN YEARS of this prophecy, the 70TH WEEK OF DANIEL, which is still FUTURE, when the Anti Christ is in power, reference is made to the number of days in a YEAR, which again proves the 360 days in a Year. "And the Woman fled into the wilderness where she has a place prepared of God, that they would feed her there a THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND THREE SCORE DAYS!" Revelation 12:6 That is a total of 1,260 Days. Since this refers to the last half of the Seven Year Tribulation Period, when you divide 1,260 by 3 and one half Years, the answer is 360 days in a year. NOW KEEP THIS FACT IN MIND. Now, the Next Question. When did this 70 WEEKS OF YEARS BEGIN? Daniel wrote: "Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the Commandment to Restore and to build Jerusalem unto "MESSIAH" the PRINCE, shall be SEVEN WEEKS AND THREESCORE AND TWO WEEKS." Daniel 9:27 The beginning point of this prophecy is found in the concern of Nehemiah over the sad condition of his Beloved City, Jerusalem. Recorded in the Book of Nehemiah, Chapter two, this man of God asked King Artaxerxes to allow him to go back to Jerusalem to rebuild the City. In a marvelous way, God moved upon the heart of this King and he issued a Decree allowing Nehemiah to go back SAFELY to rebuild the City. THIS DECREE WAS GIVEN IN THE TWENTIETH YEAR OF HIS REIGN IN THE MONTH OF NISAN, 445 BC. Now my friend, the starting point of this Prophecy is the Month Nisan, in the year 445 BC. We have already determined that the first 69 WEEKS multiplied by 7 equals a period of 483 Years. By the 360 Year calendar, this gives us a total of 173,880 Days in this period of time. An astounding Scholar, Sir Robert Anderson, allowing for the transition from BC (BEFORE CHRIST) TO AD (AFTER CHRIST) calculated, that going from 445 BC, and working through the 173,880 Days involved with this calculation, it takes us right up to the PRESENCE OF CHRIST RIGHT HERE ON EARTH, AND TO THE "DAY" WE CELEBRATE AS "PALM SUNDAY", WHEN JESUS ENTERED INTO JERUSALEM, HAILED AS THE "SAVIOR" WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD. AMAZING? FRIEND, OUR GOD IS AWESOME! Is there any wonder why our Lord "WEPT" over Jerusalem, saying, "If you had known, even you, "ESPECIALLY" in this "YOUR DAY" the things that make for your PEACE! But now they are Hid from your Eyes.: Yes, it was their "DAY" and they "MISSED" IT. But remember, the prophecy states, at the end of the first 69 weeks, "MESSIAH WOULD BE "CUT OFF" BUT "NOT" FOR HIMSELF!" O Yes, this also was foretold by the Prophet Isaiah who wrote: "He was WOUNDED for "OUR" transgressions, "BRUISED" for OUR iniquities; the Chastisement for our "PEACE" was upon HIM, and with HIS Stripes we are HEALED. All we like Sheep have gone Astray, we have Turned, "EVERYONE" to his Own Way, but the LORD laid on HIM, THE CHRIST, THE MESSIAH, the INIQUITY OF US ALL." Isaiah 53:5-6 Friend, "God made Him to be "SIN" for Us, HE WHO KNEW NO SIN, that We might be made the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IN HIM." II Corinthians 5:21 I have endeavored to set before you a few of the basic facts of this Prophecy, as it relates to the "TIMING" of the appearance of the Eternal Son of God, and His foretold Death on the CROSS when He paid the Supreme Price for our SINS as our SUBSTITUTE! I Pray, the Holy Spirit will give you clear understanding of this amazing Prophetic Word, for He promised to lead us into all TRUTH By the way, Friend, HAVE YOU ACCEPTED CHRIST'S PAYMENT FOR YOUR SINS? THE SAVIOR IS WAITING FOR YOU TO OPEN THE DOOR TO LET HIM INTO YOUR HEART. RECEIVE HIM, THE LORD JESUS CHRIST, AS YOUR PERSONAL LORD AND SAVIOR........TODAY.................AND BE SAVED! Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com ************************************************************************** Q. What is your view on the matter of Separation of Church and State? A. It was never the intention of our Founding Father's that the State would be free from religion, but that the State must never exercise control over the religious beliefs of the Church. The following message will help to further clarify the True meaning of Church and State with regard to religion. Laus Deo
These words have
been there for many years; they are 555 feet, 5.125 inches high,
perched atop the monument, facing skyward to the
"FATHER" OF OUR NATION,
overlooking the 69 square miles which comprise The District
of Columbia. the capital of the United States of America
"PRAISE BE TO GOD!"
Laus Deo.
"Praise be to God!" Laus Deo - Praise be to God Within the monument itself are 898 steps and 50 landings. As one climbs the steps and pauses at the landings the memorial stones share a message.
When one stops to observe the inscriptions found in public places all over our nation's capitol, he or she will easily find the Signature of GOD, as it is unmistakably inscribed everywhere you look. You may forget the width and height of "Laus Deo ", its location, or the architects but no one who reads this will be able to forget its meaning, "PRAISE BE TO GOD" or these words: "Unless the Lord builds the house its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain." (Psalm 127: 1) Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com ************************************************************************************ Q. I have read so many different articles on PRAYER and find myself all the more confused. Does God really answer our prayers? I have met a few people who think prayer is a waste of time. What is your thought on this matter? A. Friend, I too have read reports and surveys, and I still believe the Words of Scripture that the Spirit led Isaiah to write: "CALL TO ME, AND I WILL ANSWER YOU, AND SHOW YOU GREAT AND MIGHTY THINGS WHICH YOU KNOW NOT." Jeremiah 33:3 Friend, Don't Stop Praying! Never think it is a waste of time! Jesus said, "Men ought "ALWAYS" to "PRAY" and not LOSE HEART!" Luke 18:1 I am fully aware of the Suggested Results of a Survey taken some time ago. As I recall, it was reported that they wanted to see the results of Prayer for those who were hospitalized. There were three different groups, and one group of patients had "NO ONE" Praying for them. Another Group had People Praying for them, "BUT" they had "NO" Knowledge that People were Praying for them. The Third Group had People Praying for them, and they "KNEW" this was taking place. The conclusion was that PRAYER FOR, OR LACK OF PRAYER made little difference in the end result. When I read this account, I felt it was a "FOOLISH TEST!" The Eternal God of Creation and Salvation who knows our NEEDS, and SPIRITUAL STATUS, deals with us individually, and in Many Different Ways. This is clearly seen over and over again in the Holy Scriptures. There were times in the Ministry of our Lord when He responded with "IMMEDIATE HEALING!" A Women who had a Serious Blood Condition for 12 years approached Jesus, and "TOUCHED THE HEM OF HIS GARMENT" for she said, "If only I may touch His Garment, I SHALL BE MADE WHOLE." The response of Jesus was, "Be of Good Cheer, Daughter, Your Faith has made you WELL! And the Woman was made WELL from "THAT" HOUR!" Matthew 9:20-22 Again, when Jesus entered the Home of Peter, He saw his Wife's Mother Lying Sick with Fever. "SO HE TOUCHED HER AND THE FEVER LEFT HER." Matthew 8:15 O yes, Friend, God is able to give "IMMEDIATE HEALING!" My Wife was but FOUR YEARS OLD, when her Mother, diagnosed with Cancer, was given but a Few Months to Live. She was then 30 years of age. The Elders of the Church visited and PRAYED for her HEALING! The Lord touched her body that day, and she LIVED to reach the Ripe, Young Age of "92" before she went Home to be with her Lord. How well we know God can give "IMMEDIATE HEALING!" Does God answer this way in every situation? The answer is "NO!" There are times when the response of Jesus to a Prayer Request is followed with a "DELAY!" An "URGENT" Prayer Request was sent to Jesus from the Sister's of Lazarus who was very Sick. "LORD, HE WHOM YOU LOVE IS SICK!" John 11:3 Well, how did Jesus respond to this "URGENT" Request? We read, "When Jesus heard it, HE STAYED TWO MORE DAYS WHERE HE WAS!" O, but Lord, Lazarus needs you NOW! I love the song that has this wording, "WHEN JESUS IS FOUR DAYS LATE, HE IS STILL RIGHT ON TIME!" When Jesus "DELAYS" in responding, there is always a Divine Reason. Jesus said to His Disciples, "LAZARUS IS DEAD! And I am glad for your sakes that I WAS NOT THERE, THAT YOU MAY BELIEVE!" John 11:15 What a Powerful Statement was made when JESUS RAISED LAZARUS FROM THE DEAD! Now please understand Friend, there are "ALSO" times when Healing is Delayed, times when a variety of Requests are Delayed because there is need for the "PRUNING WORK OF THE LORD to FIRST tale place in one's life before the request is granted. Then again, there are times when the Answer of JESUS to a Prayer Request is "NO!" The Lord of Creation and Salvation is not under any obligation to say "YES" to every Request we make. Considering some of the things we Request of the Lord, a "NO" is for our very own Good. In the case of the Apostle Paul, his Prayer Request was "NO" FRIVOLOUS THING! He had a THORN IN THE FLESH that was EXTREMELY PAINFUL! He wrote: "Concerning this thing I Pleaded with the LORD THREE TIMES that it might DEPART from me." Well, how did the Lord answer this Prayer Request of Paul? Paul wrote: "And HE said to me, "MY GRACE IS SUFFICIENT FOR YOU, FOR MY STRENGTH IS MADE PERFECT IN WEAKNESS." The response of Paul to the "NO" from the Lord was Amazing, for he said, "Therefore most Gladly I will rather Boast in my Infirmities, that the "POWER" of CHRIST may rest upon ME. Therefore I take pleasure in Infirmities, in Reproaches, in Needs, in Persecutions, in Distresses FOR CHRIST'S SAKE. FOR WHEN I AM WEAK, THEN I AM STRONG!" II Corinthians 12:8-10 This is the Word of Truth about Prayer! "SEEING THEN THAT WE HAVE A GREAT HIGH PRIEST WHO HAS PASSED THROUGH THE HEAVENS, JESUS THE SON OF GOD, LET US HOLD FAST OUR CONFESSION... LET US COME BOLDLY TO THE THRONE OF GRACE THAT WE MAY OBTAIN MERCY AND FIND GRACE TO HELP IN TIME OF NEED." Hebrews 4:14-16 KEEP THAT PRAYER LINE OPEN FRIEND, "FOR HE IS ABLE TO DO THE EXCEEDING ABUNDANTLY ABOVE ALL WE ASK OR THINK!" Ephesians 3:20 Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com **************************************************************************** Q. Christmas is here again and the age old question continues to be raised. Was Jesus really Virgin Born, and was He truly God in the Flesh? So many voices are declaring that Jesus never claimed to be Deity. Can you help me with some answers? A. Let's first answer the question, "WAS JESUS GOD IN THE FLESH?" If we have a Firm and Positive Answer for this Question, then the issue of His Virgin Birth is resolved, for "WITH GOD NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE!" There are many voices today, and sad to say, even among the Clergy, who say Jesus never claimed to be God; that He was not Supernaturally Born of the Virgin Mary, and that He was just a man born of human seed as all are born into this world. They will acknowledge that Jesus did accomplish much good during His brief life, but, that He never claimed for Himself, "DEITY!" I do not know what Bible they are reading, but it is clear to make such a statement, they are conveniently closing their eyes to the clear written WORD OF GOD! I will not seek, at first, to record what the true followers of Jesus Christ said, and wrote about Him. but rather, will turn to those who hated Jesus, and who thought He was perverting the truth., Friend, almost 2000 years ago, even those who were "NOT" followers of Christ, and who strongly "OPPOSED" Him, said that He "DID" make such a claim, and because He "DID" make this claim, they called Him a "BLASPHEMER" and took up "STONES TO KILL" HIM. Note the following Scripture. "Now it was the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem, and it was winter, and Jesus walked in the Temple of Solomon's Porch. Then the Jews surrounded Him and said to Him, "How long do You keep us in doubt? IF YOU ARE THE CHRIST TELL US PLAINLY. Jesus answered them, "I TOLD YOU, AND YOU DO NOT BELIEVE ME! The Works that I do in My Father's Name, they bear witness of Me. But you do not believe, because you are not of My Sheep, as I said to you, "My Sheep hear My Voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give to them Eternal Life, and they shall never perish, neither shall any one snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all. and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father's hand. I AND MY FATHER ARE ONE!" When the people heard these Words, they took up stones to stone Him. QUESTION? Why would they want to stone Jesus to death? What was their understanding of the Words He spoke to them? NOTE CAREFULLY THE ANSWER THEY GAVE! "Many works I have shown you from My Father. For which of these works do you stone Me? They answered, "For a Good Work we do not stone You, BUT FOR "BLASPHEMY" AND BECAUSE YOU, BEING A MAN, MAKE YOURSELF "GOD!" John 10:22-33 Could there be anything more clear? They knew exactly what Jesus was declaring! They knew He was claiming "DEITY!" Do you recall the words of Nicodemus, who was a Member of the Jewish Ruling Council, who approached Jesus one night? He said, "RABBI, WE KNOW YOU ARE A TEACHER WHO HAS COME FROM GOD, FOR NO ONE CAN DO THESE MIRACULOUS SIGNS THAT YOU DO UNLESS GOD IS WITH HIM!" This Spiritually Hungry, Seeking Ruler of the Jews learned that GOD was not only with JESUS, but that GOD WAS STANDING RIGHT THERE BEFORE HIM IN THE PERSON OF JESUS! "GOD MANIFESTED IN FLESH!" TRUE GOD, AND TRUE MAN. The Apostle Paul wrote as he was led by the Holy Spirit, "FOR IN CHRIST, ALL THE FULLNESS OF "THE DEITY" DWELLS IN BODILY FORM." Colossians 2:9 Now think of this "FACT" very carefully. Hundreds of years before the Birth of Jesus, it was Prophesied by the Prophet Isaiah, "Therefore, the LORD HIMSELF shall give you a "SIGN!" Behold, a "VIRGIN" shall conceive and bring forth a "SON" and shall call His Name, IMMANUEL! (Which being interpreted is "GOD WITH US") Isaiah 7:14 If Jesus had been born as you and I, that would "NOT" have been anything unusual. That would "NOT" have been a "SIGN" that revealed something very significant was to take place. The "SIGN" was that a "VIRGIN" would conceive and bring forth a "SON!" Years later, this was the Word the Angel of the Lord gave to Joseph engaged to Mary. who was a VIRGIN! "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a "SON" and you shall call His Name "JESUS" for He will "SAVE" His people from their Sins." Matthew 1:20-21 Never doubt it, Friend, for "JESUS" left the Glories of Heaven and came into our World because He Loves us, and wants to give to all who will believe in Him, the "GIFT" of ETERNAL LIFE. "For in HIM, we have REDEMPTION through HIS BLOOD, the FORGIVENESS OF SINS, according to the RICHES OF HIS GRACE." Ephesians 1:7 WHEN YOU HAVE "JESUS" AS YOUR LORD AND SAVIOR YOUR LIFE RESTS ON THE ETERNAL ROCK OF AGES! Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com *************************************************************************** Q. Is Patriotism a thing of the past in America? It seems we see more and more young and older desecrating our beloved Flag. My stomach churned when I saw our Flag turned upside down beneath another flag right here in America by Immigrants or Natural Born Citizens of this great Country. Is Patriotism a thing of the past? A. I realize that there is much going on today in the USA that true Americans can't appreciate. Especially when you see our great FLAG turned upside down with the flag of another Country placed above it by Young People at the Montebello High School in California. I honestly do not understand their actions and I keep asking myself,
WHY DO THEY BOTHER COMING TO AMERICA
THE LAND OF THE FREE?
I
have nothing against the Mexican Flag or any other Flag of the Nations of
the world. I'm sure the Mexican People and the People of other Countries
love their Flag and their Country, and I
"RESPECT"
them for being
"LOYAL"
citizens of their Homeland.
HOWEVER, If
these Young People, who were either born in America or who have Immigrated
to our Country
"LOVE"
their Flag so much, THEN I SUGGEST THAT THEY
GO BACK TO THEIR HOMELAND AND THERE
"PROUDLY"
RAISE
THEIR FLAG AS HIGH
AS THEY WANT, BUT
"NOT
IN AMERICA"
above an Upside Down Flag
of the
UNITED STATES,
A COUNTRY that gives such "FREEDOM"
TO ALL!
NOTE THE FOLLOWING "IMMIGRATION LAWS" 1. There will be no SPECIAL "BILINGUAL" programs in the Schools. 2. There will be no SPECIAL BALLOTS for Election. 3. All GOVERNMENT BUSINESS will be conducted in OUR LANGUAGE. 4. Foreigners will not have the right to VOTE no matter how long they are here. 5. Foreigners will never be able to hold POLITICAL OFFICE. 6. Foreigners will not be a BURDEN to TAXPAYERS. 7. NO WELFARE; NO FOOD STAMPS; NO HEALTH CARE OR OTHER GOVERNMENT ASSISTED PROGRAMS. 8. If Foreigners do come and want to BUY land, that will be Okay, but options will be restricted. You are not allowed WATERFRONT PROPERTY that is "RESERVED" for Citizens Naturally Born into this Country. 9. FOREIGNERS MAY NOT PROTEST, NO DEMONSTRATIONS, NO WAVING A FOREIGN FLAG, NO POLITICAL ORGANIZATION, NO BAD-MOUTHING OUR PRESIDENT OR HIS POLICIES. IF YOU DO, YOU WILL BE SENT HOME. 10. If you do come to this Country "ILLEGALLY" you will be "HUNTED DOWN" and sent straight to "JAIL." THE ABOVE LAWS HAPPEN TO BE THE IMMIGRATION LAWS OF "MEXICO! * * * * * * * * * * ** MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS AMERICA
THE STARS AND STRIPES FOREVER
PROUDLY SHE WAVES
"O SAY DOES THAT STAR SPANGLED
BANNER YET WAVE
O'ER THE LAND OF THE FREE, AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE."
"GOD BLESS AMERICA, LAND THAT I LOVE, STAND
BESIDE HER AND
GUIDE HER THROUGH THE NIGHT WITH A LIGHT FROM ABOVE; FROM
THE MOUNTAINS, TO THE PRAIRIES, TO THE OCEANS WHITE WITH
FOAM, GOD BLESS AMERICA, MY HOME SWEET HOME.
"BLESSED IS THE NATION WHOSE GOD IS THE LORD!"
PLEASE CLICK BELOW FOR A BLESSED MOMENT ON PATRIOTISM IT IS NOT "DEAD" IN AMERICA - IT IS "ALIVE" AND WELL! The Battle Hymn of the Republic as produced by a group of High School student musicians and the side to it is that a mother led the effort too. It takes but three minutes of your time but it is beautiful.
http://www.greatdanepro.com/Battle%20Hymn/index.htm
************************************************************************************************************** Q. So many today play down the Prophesies of the Bible and deny they are of Divine Origin. Is it possible that these Prophecies are of Human Origin? A. The Word of God does indeed have many Prophetic Utterances, and we must ask ourselves the very question you raise, "Are these Prophesies of HUMAN ORIGIN or are they of DIVINE ORIGIN? There are a number of people who over the years have indicated that they have Prophetic Power and able to Predict Accurately Future Events. However, when their Predictions are checked out, they consistently come up EMPTY! Friend, this is the Huge Difference between Man's ability to foretell the future, and the Eternal God who knows all things. The Almighty God our Creator and Redeemer who "ALONE" knows the beginning from the end, and the end from the beginning. I refer again to the book "SCIENCE SPEAKS" written by Peter Stoner, where the question is raised as to the Origin of the Prophesies of Scripture. He stated, if they were of Human Origin alone, their Probability of being Fulfilled would be "ONE" CHANCE IN 8X10 TO THE 63rd DEGREE!" May I clarify this statement for myself and perhaps for you as well? Now think carefully, it is "10" FOLLOWED WITH 63 ZEROS, AND THEN MULTIPLIED BY 8. MAN O MAN, THAT IS MIND BOGGLING? That would Equal the Possibility IF JUST "11" PROPHESIES in the Scriptures could be fulfilled as stated in the Bible IF THEY WERE OF HUMAN ORIGIN. The fact of the matter is there are not just "11" Prophesies in the Scriptures, but "MANY MORE" dealing with a variety of Future Events, especially, the Coming of the Son of God into our World to bring us Deliverance from the Guilt and Penalty of Sin, and to provide the "GIFT" of Eternal Life to all who will accept HIM as LORD and SAVIOR. Note these Prophetic Words with the letter "P" for the Prophecy, and the letter "F" for Fulfilled. P- Genesis 49:10 Christ would come through the Tribe of Judah. F- Luke 3:33 & Matthew 1:2-3 *** P-Isaiah 9:7 Christ is the Heir of the Throne of David. F-Luke 1:31-33 & Matthew 1:1 *** P-Micah 5:2 The place of the Birth of Christ. F-Matthew 2:1 & Luke 2:4 *** P-Daniel 9:25 The Time of the Birth of Christ. F-Luke 2:1-2 *** P-Isaiah 7:14 Christ to be Born of a Virgin. F-Matthew 1:18 & Luke 1:26-35 *** P-Zechariah 9:9 The Triumphal Entry of Christ into Jerusalem. F- John 12:13 & Matthew 21:1-11 *** P-Psalm 41:9 The Betrayal of Christ by a Friend. F-Mark 14:10 *** P-Zechariah 11:12 Christ sold for thirty pieces of Silver. F-Matthew 26:15 *** P-Isaiah 53:12 Christ Crucified with Sinners. F-Matthew 27:38 *** P-Psalm 22:16 Christ's Hands and Feet Pierced. F-John 20:27 *** P-Psalm 16:10 Christ's Resurrection from the Dead. F-Matthew 28:9 *** P-Psalm 68:18 The Ascension of Christ into Heaven. F-Luke 24:50-51. WOW! That is quite a list, and that doesn't even include the Prophesies relating to the Coming of Christ at the end of this Age of Grace, and His Reign with the Redeemed right here on this Planet Earth, when He reigns as KING OF kings and LORD OF lords. The Apostle Peter wrote: "For Prophecy "NEVER" came by the Will of Man, but Holy Men of God spoke as they were Moved by the HOLY SPIRIT." II Peter 1:21 "All Scripture is given by Inspiration of God, (all Scripture is God Breathed) and therefore is Profitable for Doctrine, for Reproof, for Correction, for Instruction in Righteousness, that the Man of God may be Complete, and thoroughly Equipped for every Good Work." II Timothy 3:16 Friend, you can "TRUST" the WORD OF GOD, because the Scripture Predictions of Future Events were uttered HUNDREDS OF YEARS BEFORE THE EVENTS EVER TOOK PLACE, and no Mere Human Foresight could ever have Anticipated them. They were so Detailed and Specific that it clearly EXCLUDES the possibility that they were simply GOOD GUESS WORK. Further, you can "TRUST" the Wonderful SAVIOR, who was Crucified, Buried and Raised again from the Dead, and Who is "ABLE TO SAVE COMPLETELY ALL WHO COME TO GOD THROUGH HIM." Hebrews 7:25 Jesus said, "I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE, "NO ONE" CAN COME TO THE FATHER EXCEPT BY ME." John 14:6 BELIEVE IT FRIEND, AND BEGIN TO LIVE! Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com ****************************************** Q. If God is a God of Love, how can He allow such Evil to continue in our world? Why doesn't He stop it all? A. Listening to the Evening News and hearing of the Murders, the Rapes, the Missing Young Women who are found brutally beaten to death, and the Predators soliciting sex over the Internet, involving so many young boys and girls, it really breaks your heart. There is no question that EVIL is rampant in our world today, and it is growing worse with each passing day. Satan is truly having a Field Day with his deceiving works. Of course, we could go back over the course of history and recall many situations that reveal the Wickedness of Men and Women. Often the History Channel on TV will present vivid accounts of some of the horrible atrocities that have taken place in the past, and atrocities that continue to this very day in many Countries. I think of the millions of Jews whose lives were taken in the most cruel manner by the Nazi Regime led by Adolph Hitler. The millions of Ukrainians whose lives were crushed by the hand of the cruel Dictator Joseph Stalin. O yes, the murder of millions in Iraq, Africa, China, and on an on we could continue to expose the wickedness so prevalent in our world today. However, the issue is not "HOW CAN A GOD OF LOVE STAND BY AND ALLOW SUCH EVIL?" NO, NO, my Friend. The issue is "LOOK WHAT MEN AND WOMEN WILL DO WHEN THEIR HEARTS ARE NOT RIGHT WITH GOD." Hear the Word of the Lord: "So listen to me you men of Understanding, FAR BE IT FROM GOD TO DO EVIL, FOR THE ALMIGHTY TO DO WRONG!" Job 34:10 God did not create "ROBOTS" when He created our first Parents, but placed within each a FREE WILL. Yes, Freedom to Choose to Obey, or to Disobey His Word. Freedom to do Good, or Freedom to Evil. That is why we are exhorted to "CHOOSE YOU THIS DAY WHOM YOU WILL SERVE." Sad to say, so many "CHOOSE" TO BE A LAW UNTO THEMSELVES. SO MANY "CHOOSE" TO DO WRONG. We are not mere "PUPPETS" on a string! God has given to EVERYONE the Freedom of Choice, and with such Freedom, there will be a DAY OF RECKONING before the True God of Creation and Salvation. All who turn their backs on the Lord Jesus Christ, and refuse to accept His Free Gift of Eternal Salvation, they will have their REWARD, BUT IT WON'T BE A HAPPY DAY. "Be not deceived, God is not mocked, for whatever a man SOWS, that shall he also REAP! For he that SOWS to the Flesh, shall of the Flesh reap Corruption, but he that SOWS to the SPIRIT, will of the SPIRIT reap Everlasting Life." Galatians 6:7-8 Each year in the month of September we vividly remember the tragic event brought about by Evildoers who thought they would enter heaven upon completing their horrible Terrorist Suicidal Mission. Well, they REAPED what they SOWED, and in a split second they learned how wrong they were about their Eternal Destiny. We are all FREE to CHOOSE, BUT we are not FREE to CHOOSE the CONSEQUENCES. When our thoughts are directed to Human Suffering, if ever a man suffered unbearably, it was the man in the Scriptures named, JOB. And yet in spite of the loss of his Children, Possessions, and his own Health, we read "IN ALL THIS JOB DID NOT SIN AGAINST GOD, NOR DID HE CHARGE GOD FOOLISHLY!" Job 1:22 Friend, Don't CHARGE GOD FOOLISHLY, but understand what men will do when their Hearts are not Right with God. They will have their Reward, and of that you can be sure. God is and every will be a GOD OF LOVE, "and GOD Proved His Love toward us in that while we were yet SINNERS, CHRIST DIED FOR US." Romans 5:8 "God so Loved the World that He gave His Only Begotten Son, that WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM, shall not Perish, but have Everlasting Life." John 3:16 "In this the Love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His Only Begotten Son into the World, that we might Live through Him. In this is Love, not that we Loved God, but that He Loved us and sent His Son to be the Covering for our Sin." I John 4:9-10 What a different world this would be if EACH ONE did exactly what Jesus Christ stated when He said, "Love the Lord your God with all your Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength, "AND" YOUR "NEIGHBOR" AS "YOURSELF!" Mark 12:30-31 One final note: The Day is fast approaching when God will STOP IT ALL! That Day is coming when Satan will be Silenced and Sin shall cease, and so much more. For the Word of God states: "Behold the Tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And GOD shall wipe away every "TEAR" from their EYES; there shall be no more "DEATH," nor "SORROW," nor "CRYING." There shall be no more "PAIN" for the former things have PASSED AWAY." Then He who sat on the Throne said, "WRITE, FOR THESE WORDS ARE "TRUE" AND "FAITHFUL!" Revelation 21:3-5 Are you READY for this Coming Day? Comments click here: djvb7777@aol.com ************************************************************************** Q. Are Signs and Wonders as recorded in the Scriptures taking place today, or is that only something that took place during the earthly years of the Ministry of Christ? A. Friend, any Ministry that puts LIMITS on GOD, is a Ministry that is without Power. The Word of God assures us, that "WITH GOD NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE!" Over the years of my Personal Ministry, I have seen many works of God that can only be described as a Miracle by the very hand of God. My own Mother-in-law, severely ill lying on a hospital bed, was given a few months to live, but when she returned to her home, the "ELDERS" of the Church came to her bedside and prayed over her in the Power of the Holy Spirit to be Healed, and nothing less than a miracle took place. When the Doctors examined her again, they could not find any trace of the Cancer that would have eventually taken her life. She lived 61 more years and went home to be with her Lord at the age of 91. TO THE PRAISE OF GOD, I HAVE SEEN SUCH BLESSED MOMENTS PRAYING OVER THE SICK WITH SPIRIT FILLED DEACONS, WHEN THE HAND OF GOD BROUG |
