Christians Viewed as Terrorists

http://www.phillyburbs.com/pb-dyn/news/112-03232007-1318937.html

A high school in New Jersey has performed a drill with its students of a mock hostage situation. Some students played the roles of armed suspects and officers, and dead and wounded victims. With all the school shootings in recent years, this doesn't seem like a bad idea, right? What is alarming is that the suspects in the scenario were a Fundamentalist right-wing group called the "New Crusaders," which doesn't believe in the separation of church and state. In the scenario this group was outraged and was seeking justice when a student was expelled from school for praying. Evidently, viewing and portraying Christians as being terrorists is much more politically correct than the Islamic extremists that we regularly read about on the news carrying out various sorts of attacks. What a seemingly inconspicuous way of indoctrinating American children to view anyone holding uncompromised Christian beliefs as being dangerous. These types of incidents will become more prevalent in our country as our society becomes more and more anti-Christian. It is definitely a sign of the end of days when a coming world leader will be given authority to persecute Christians.


And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

Revelation 13:7

The people of the world will accept this persecution of the saints because they will all worship him.


And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

Revelation 13:8

What could possibly make all the people who dwell on the earth to give approval to a world leader to kill Christians? In Nazi Germany, Hitler was able to spread a hatred for the Jews which gave rise to hostility not only in Germany, but permeated throughout Europe as well. The people then gave approval for their destruction. How was he able to do this? In a nutshell, he blamed the Jews for all of the problems the German people were facing at the time. He convinced the people that the Jews were subhuman, a threat, and must be eliminated. This may only be the genesis of a trend to demonize those who hold the Bible as the inerrant Word of God.

In light of this news story, I am going to repost a commentary that I wrote last year. The article was written in response to the government seeking to monitor phone calls, however the scenario described is one that is relevant to the article I just discussed, and may soon come to pass.


So what's the big deal anyway? We sacrifice a little privacy for the sake of security. I mean, have we forgotten so quickly the images of the planes flying into the Twin Towers and the desperately hopeless bodies flailing out of the windows of the buildings to their deaths, right before it collapsed and came crashing to the ground? Those images are so horrible to relive that we have to do something, right? We all know our borders aren't secure, so we have to do something about those anti-American terrorists over here plotting our deaths on our own soil. So if the government wants to ensure our safety, then it must be able to take whatever measures necessary in order to make sure it can spy on whomever it deems necessary. If that means that they need to monitor our phone records which will inevitably lead to listening to our phone calls without our consent, (who are they trying to fool?), big deal! If I am not doing anything wrong then it shouldn't matter, right? So what if they know I'm talking to my Mom about my travel plans to Florida this summer, or to my friend about my latest recipe endeavor? Isn't the safety of thousands or maybe even millions of Americans more important? And they are only really interested in the bad guys anyway. But, wait a minute! What is a bad guy? What is a terrorist? I just looked up several definitions, which basically say about the same thing.

A terrorist is a radical who employs terror as a political weapon; usually organizes with other terrorists in small cells; often uses religion as a cover for terrorist activities.

Now I am asking this question because several years ago I had a rather lengthy dialogue with a penpal of mine from South Africa. She is a Muslim girl that I didn't know throughout the years of writing to her that she held very strong anti-American sentiments. Right after 9/11 we began discussing the events of the time, which inevitably led the discussion up to the entire Intifada movement in Israel. Suicide bombings were a daily occurrence. However to her, the Palestinians involved in the suicide bombings were "freedom fighters". This didn't surprise me since everything that she and I discussed, I had heard many times by those who shared her views. Those that I saw as terrorists, she regarded as freedom fighters. So the question is:

Is being a terrorist in the eye of the beholder?

If being a terrorist is indeed in the eye of the beholder, then who is deemed a terrorist depends on who is defining the person, right? Yes sure today when we think of a terrorist we think of someone of Middle Eastern descent with very radical views and bent of the destruction of Israel and America (mainly for her support of Israel). Basically, this person we believe is against peace and against what we stand for in our country. This is mainly who our current president has in mind and is targeting. But Bush has only a short time left as our leader and new leaders will eventually emerge on the scene, with the same laws, giving the same liberties, on the books. Now we have someone else doing the "beholding". Now this new person with access to the same laws, giving the same liberties to the government, is defining who a terrorist is. Sure, the goal remains to target those that are against peace and against what we stand for. But what do we stand for? Do we even agree as Amercians on that? The big buzz word in our country is that everloving "T" word - Tolerance. After all, those terrorists sure aren't tolerant of those who disagree with their political views, are they? But there are also others that aren't tolerant either- like those Christians who believe that Jesus is the only way to salvation. They are in essence saying that no one can get to heaven except by believing in Jesus. Now that isn't very tolerant in light of the fact that most people in the world do not believe in Jesus.

So now we have to revisit that definition of a terrorist.

A terrorist is a radical who employs terror as a political weapon; usually organizes with other terrorists in small cells; often uses religion as a cover for terrorist activities.

There is no doubt that the whole thought of your way as being the only way is pretty radical. That fundamentalist "Religious Right" group is for sure influential in the political arena. They are always sticking their noses in political affairs. Gee, haven't these people ever heard of separation of church and state? But do they use terror? Well, what can be more terrorising than the thought of eternal punishment? They certainly organize in small groups with others like them under the name of religion. Oh my goodness, I think we have another terrorist organization! Of course they don't believe that they are terrorists, but isn't being a terrorist in the eye of the beholder?

OK, so now I am a leader of the most powerful nation in the world and I have deemed that these Christians are a terrorist organization. They are certainly against the American values of peace and tolerance because they won't let go of their radical, intolerant views of Jesus being the only way to salvation. Their political influence is making it impossible to move forward as a nation because they refuse to embrace the ideas of all the other religions represented in the country. They also keep trying to push their own values on the culture, like trying to make us look at those laws reflecting their values called the Ten Commandments on our public properties. What is the difference between them and radical Islam? Can't see much. After all, one uses physical intimidation and the other uses psychological intimidation. Hey, I know it is a stretch but I am doing the "beholding" so I can judge however I want, remember?

Well, luckily we have these laws on the book that our previous president George W. Bush put in place years ago, among which makes it legal for the government to spy on its citizens if it believes that they may be engaged in terrorist activities. We must keep watch on those Christians and monitor their movements. After all, now that we have deemed that they are terrorists, their rights as American citizens are now forfeited.

So what is a little privacy forfeited in the name of security? What is the big deal anyway? Who is it going to hurt? After all, they are only going after the terrorists and not regular, law-abiding citizens like you and me, right?


Farfetched?

Well, we know that the scriptures tell us that there is going to be a coming world leader who will have control over the whole world, and who will not be very friendly to Christians.

Rev. 13:7 And the beast was allowed to wage war against God's holy people and to overcome them. And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation.

Now this world leader is going to have incredible control, even over our economic system, as we have not seen in our country in our lifetime.

Rev. 13: 16-17 He required everyone-great and small, rich and poor, slave and free-to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. 17 And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name.

But in our country? Our free country? How can that happen? Well, it will happen because the scriptures tell us so. How do we lose our sovereignty and freedoms? Just one little security-building law at a time.

(I wrote this commentary in response to this news item: http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2006-05-10-nsa_x.htm )

Syria Deploys Missiles on Israeli Border

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070309/wl_mideast_afp/mideastconflictisraelsyria
The burden against Damascus.
"Behold, Damascus will cease from being a city,
And it will be a ruinous heap.

The fortress also will cease from Ephraim,
The kingdom from Damascus,
And the remnant of Syria;
They will be as the glory of the children of Israel,"
Says the Lord of hosts.
Isaiah 17: 1 & 3

Hey, don't shoot the messenger! I am simply conveying a prophecy spoken by the prophet Isaiah about 2700 years ago; about 700 years before the Jewish Diaspora, 1300 years before the beginning and spread of Islam around the Middle East, and 2600 years before the return of the Jews to the homeland and the establishment of the nation of Israel. Isaiah prophesied that the city of Damascus will be utterly destroyed. As Syria deploys missiles along the Israeli border, I pray that the people of its oldest city will heed this warning from the only book which has 100% accuracy in its divine predictions.

Half-Human/Half-Animal

Apologies for my long absence!





Of mice and men

UK scientists are seeking permission to place human nuclei into animal eggs in a bid to create stem cell lines.
Why do researchers believe the intermingling of species could be vital to science?

But far from seeing their role as creators of freak-show fodder, scientists believe the creation of part-human part-animal creatures can help to study disease, advance areas such as fertility, and boost understanding of our basic biology.
These creatures are called chimeras, and are defined as organisms that contain at least two genetically different groups of cells originating from different organisms.
Different from hybrids, which are formed when one species' egg is fertilised with another species' sperm, such as the horse-donkey-cross mule, chimeras can occur between the same species or between different species; exist in nature or be created in the laboratory.

For full article: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6107796.stm

What kind of Pandora's Box are we opening when we assume to fuse different species together? Yeah, yeah, I know - perhaps we'll be able to study certain diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinsons, and possibly develop cures. But what are the possible ramifications for such research? Could new diseases and conditions be formed by these new creatures, or possibly a consequence even more ominous? Are scientists genuinely motivated by the prospect of life-saving discoveries, or is it a convenient excuse to play creator?

Iran's Defiance Makes Sense

(Comic link: http://www.coxandforkum.com/archives/000720.html )


Ahmadinejad makes the statement that Iran poses no threat to anyone, even Israel.


Iran continues to defy UN's demands to halt its nuclear program, and why not? Has the UN proven itself to be an intimidating force? For years throughout the 90's Saddam Hussein time after time violated UN resolutions after the Persian Gulf war. Hussein flies over designated "no-fly" zones and what does the UN do? It simply wags its finger, Now Now Hussein you bad boy, don't do that. Hussein restricts weapon inspections and the UN again only wags its fingers, Now Now Hussein, don't do that. Then after a decade of this nonsense when the US and UK decide it's time to implement Plan C, since Plan A and B didn't work, it could not get the support of the UN, who insists on sticking to the same old ineffective tactics. So no wonder Iran doesn't take any demand of the UN seriously.

However, The arming of Iran falls right in line with prophecy. Iran was named some 2600 years ago as one of the nations in a coalition that will come against Israel in the end times.

Ezekiel 38:3-5
and say, 'Thus says the Lord GOD, "Behold, I am against you, O Gog, prince of Rosh, Meshech and Tubal.

"I will turn you about and put hooks into your jaws, and I will bring you out, and all your army, horses and horsemen, all of them splendidly attired, a great company {with} buckler and shield, all of them wielding swords;

Persia, Ethiopia and Put with them, all of them {with} shield and helmet;

Persia, which is obviously Iran, will attempt a momentous attack with many other nations against Israel, but will have its armies destroyed when the Lord intervenes. Even though it is divine intervention that has held Israel as a nation in the midst of the numerous attacks from her enemies for 50 years, after this incident there will be no doubt to the world that the Lord is protecting His people in His land.

Sha ' alu Shalom Yerushalayim! Continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem!

Good or Evil?

So much has been discussed about the Biblical views of end-time Apocalyse. Even those who have probably never opened a Bible have heard the terms Anti-Christ, the infamous number 666, and the Mark of the Beast. However in Islam there are also prophecies in the book they consider to be most holy, the Quran. The reason I feel these prophecies are too important to be ignored, even in the Christian community, is due to their possible relevance in current events, as well as the end-time future. What is striking about the prophecies in both books are their astouding similarities and stark contrasts.

In both the Bible and the Quran, there is a world leader described who will arise who will unite the world under one government and religion. He will be the most powerful man that ever lived. He will mesmerize the world with great signs and wonders. Though the world leader is described in the same way, there is one difference that will make all of the difference in the world. The world leader in the Bible is seen as an evil man who will persecute many, while the Quran's world leader is seen as the savior of the world.

Muslims are waiting for a world leader called the Mahdi. Iran's president Ahmadinejad has stated that it is his duty to continue his nuclear program in preparation for the Mahdi's appearance. However, while the Biblical scriptures warns its readers that this man is empowered by Satan himself, the Quran depicts this man as the Messiah, and demands allegiance. This Mahdi is the one portrayed in the end-time prophecies in Islam. It is even believed by many that the same rider of the white horse described in the book of Revelation in the Bible, is the great Mahdi.

You can't straddle the fence

In both accounts, this great leader will convince most people in the world to follow him. There will be no straddling the fence. You will either pledge your allegiance to this man or denounce him. This is not a decision to be made lightly either. The Biblical accounts state that if you receive the mark of this man, which means you have declared your allegiance to him, you will be irrevocably headed to eternal judgement. The Islamic prophecies proclaim that anyone who doesn't follow this man will not only be persecuted on earth, but also destined for Hell.

Which decision will you make?

Many prophecies of the Bible have already been fulfilled with 100% accuracy. These are very specific prophecies that were written hundreds and some thousands of years before they happened. I have heard skeptics say that no man can know the future before it happens. That is so true and exactly the point. Only God, who is outside of time, knows the future. The Lord spoke these words through His prophets and told us as a warning of the things that are to happen. With a 100% batting average, is there any logical reason to believe that the rest of the prophecies will not come to pass also? Where will you stand? Your eternal future depends on your answer.

To compare the prophecies of Islam and the Bible: http://answering-islam.org.uk/Authors/JR/Future/index.htm

What's next?

Using planes as bombs to crash into buildings, liquid bombs to be detonated on planes, and now cell-phone bombs? What kind of depraved mind sits around imagining new ways of murdering hundreds and even thousands of people? Even the most insane serial killers usually stick to one key method for all of their victims. What in the world are they going to think of next?

Recognize that it is the Lord who is behind the Intelligence information and uncovering of each of these plots. Pray for the Lord to continue to protect us from these predators, uncovering their plots all around the world.

Three Middle Eastern Men Found With 1000 Cell Phones, Now Face Charges

The three suspects are now facing two counts each of Homeland Security Terrorism charges.

Wal-Mart places a limit on the number of cell phones that can be purchased at once, that number is three. The three men allegedly bought 80 by purchasing them three at time so that an alert wouldn't be triggered by the cash register.

One man was driving while the other two were in the back opening the phone packages with box cutters throwing the phones in one box, batteries in another and the packaging and phone charger in another container. The suspects had 1000 other cell phones in the van. There was also a bag of receipts showing that someone was in Wisconsin the day before.

Tim Nausler with the Michigan State Police bomb squad says this has all the tell tale signs of using cell phones to detonate bombs.

http://www.wnem.com/Global/story.asp?S=5269589

Why Will the Nations Plunder Israel?

"and you will say, 'I will go up against the land of unwalled villages. I will go against those who are at rest, that live securely, all of them living without walls and having no bars or gates,
to capture spoil and to seize plunder, to turn your hand against the waste places which are {now} inhabited, and against the people who are gathered from the nations, who have acquired cattle and goods, who live at the center of the world.' "
Ezekiel 38:11-12


The Prophet Ezekiel told of a time in the last days when many nations will attempt to come against Israel. Of course this has happened many times, but there is a very detailed battle in which the Lord intervenes on Israel's behalf in such a way that the entire world will know that it is by the Lord's hands. The above verses speak of the reason why the nations will come against Israel. They intend to "seize plunder" and "capture spoil". So the obvious question is, what exactly are they coming to plunder?

One possibility may be hidden in the actions of the Zion Oil and Gas Company which has been drilling in certain areas searching for oil reserves they believe may exist there. If oil is indeed discovered, the implications may be enormous.

The rich-in-oil Arab nations have attempted to hold the world hostage with this comodity that is so precious to developed countries. With each new conflict in the Middle East, the price of gas escalates, affecting Americans where it hurts them the most - in the pocketbook. If our friend in the Middle East is sitting on massive oil reserves, this may be the solution to the ever-soaring gas prices.

John Brown, the founder and chairman of the Zion Oil and Gas, stated, "You have these Arab states that threaten boycotts and throw their oil weight around to get countries to pressure Israel," said Brown. "Imagine if Israel becomes a huge oil producer. There will be no more placating anyone since they have the oil."

However, beyond all the economic implications, this may well be the "hooks in the jaws" spoken of in Ezekiel 38:4. An ever-increasing anti-semitic world may not be ready to see an oil-rich Israel.

No need to fret, unless of course you are one of the nations who will "devise the evil plan" as stated in verse 38:10. We know the ending. The Lord Himself will intervene and the armies of those nations will be utterly destroyed, and the Lord says they will know that He is the Lord.

Eze 38:18 -23
"It will come about on that day, when Gog comes against the land of Israel," declares the Lord GOD, "that My fury will mount up in My anger.

"In My zeal and in My blazing wrath I declare {that} on that day there will surely be a great earthquake in the land of Israel.

"The fish of the sea, the birds of the heavens, the beasts of the field, all the creeping things that creep on the earth, and all the men who are on the face of the earth will shake at My presence; the mountains also will be thrown down, the steep pathways will collapse and every wall will fall to the ground.

"I will call for a sword against him on all My mountains," declares the Lord GOD. "Every man's sword will be against his brother.

"With pestilence and with blood I will enter into judgment with him; and I will rain on him and on his troops, and on the many peoples who are with him, a torrential rain, with hailstones, fire and brimstone.

"I will magnify Myself, sanctify Myself, and make Myself known in the sight of many nations; and they will know that I am the LORD.'"

http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=46428

Pray for the peace of Israel. Pray for the Lord's blessings on the land.

Well, Surprise! Surprise!

No Consensus in Lebanon Cease-Fire Talks
Thursday July 27, 2006 2:01 AM

By VICTOR L. SIMPSON
Associated Press Writer
ROME (AP) - Top U.S. and European officials agreed Wednesday on urgent action to halt the fighting in Lebanon and on the creation of a multinational force to keep the peace. But the two sides had starkly divergent views of what that means.
Most Europeans want Israel to stop its offensive against Hezbollah now - which would leave Hezbollah battered but defiant. The United States wants to give Israel more time to pound the militia into submission as part of the wider war on terror.

For full article: http://www.guardian.co.uk/worldlatest/story/0,,-5976199,00.html

I keep wondering who is really surprised that once again Israel is at war after the Hezbollah abductions and attacks. The surrounding enemies of Israel have not made it unclear what is required in order to stop the attacks - the end of the so-called "occupation". This means complete withdrawal of the Jews from the land of Israel. That is just not going to happen. Therefore, this ongoing war, which has been going on for decades, will continue. So why do the nations continue to pressure Israel to keep giving more of her land and why does Israel continue to do it and contemplate giving more? I understand that Israel simply wants peace and for all of this ongoing tension to end.

The media in its usual bias has managed to perpetuate another dirty "O" word to add to "occupation". This new and very misleading word is "offensive". Television news reporters continue to refer to this latest barrage of missile firings as the "Israeli Offensive". It insinuates that Israel is the initial aggressor. How many attacks from terrorist groups does Israel have to endure before her retaliation is considered as defensive? It is the reason why I often try to steer clear from CNN and MSNBC, and obtain most of my news from various internet sources.

I was told a few years ago that there is a prophecy in Islam that in the end, the Muslims will get the the land. So I suppose they will not stop because they believe that all of their attempts are going to yield a victory in the end. However we do know from the infallible biblical scriptures what will really happen in the end.

The prophet Zechariah prophesied:


Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling unto all the people round about, when they shall be in the siege both against Judah [and] against Jerusalem.

And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it. Zech 12: 2-3

There is no doubt that the time Zechariah described when Jerusalem would become a burdensome stone and a cup of trembling unto all people is here. Nations all over are feeling the effects of two groups of people laying claim to a piece of land. Attacks from terrorist groups have sprung up all over the globe. We are even feeling the pinch economically at the gas pumps. But what are the origins of this claim? For the sake of those unfamiliar with the story, I'll give a brief synopsis.

In the book of Genesis the Patriarch Abraham was told by God that he would have a son through which he would make Abraham the father of a great nation and give the land, part of which is today known as Israel. When Abraham's wife didn't get pregnant right away, she thought maybe God would give her a son through her servant. The servant had a son by Abraham and was named Ishmael. The Lord told Abraham that the son that would be heir to the land and promises would be the one born to his wife Sarah. He then told them the very time that Sarah would have this son. She did and the son was named Issac. Issac is the father of Jacob who is the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. Because Ishmael was also Abraham's son, the Lord told him that he would make Ishmael a great nation also, but not the heir to the promises. Ishmael is the father of many of the peoples in the Arab world.

Thousands of years later, about 570 A.D., a man named Mohammad was born and later claimed to have been visited by an angel who gave him a revelation, and birthed the Islamic religion. One of these revelations was that the rightful heir to the promises of Abraham had not been through Issac, but to Ishmael, since he was the eldest. This is the reason why these two groups of people are laying claim to this piece of land.

Now the Biblical scriptures have already prophesied with perfect accuracy the history of the Jews.

The exile of the Jews was told by the prophet Hosea:

My God will cast them away, because they did not hearken unto him: and they shall be wanderers among the nations. Hosea 9:17

The prophet Moses wrote about it:

The LORD will scatter you among the peoples, and you will be left few in number among the nations where the LORD drives you.

When you are in distress and all these things have come upon you, in the latter days you will return to the LORD your God and listen to His voice. Deuteronomy 4: 27 & 30

It was prophesied through Moses, Isaiah, and Ezekiel that Israel would become a wasteland, but be brought back again. (This prophecy is fulfilled in part, happening now, and will not be fully complete until after the latter days).

And I will scatter you among the heathen, and will draw out a sword after you: and your land shall be desolate, and your cities waste. Leviticus 26: 33

For the LORD shall comfort Zion: he will comfort all her waste places; and he will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the LORD; joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving, and the voice of melody. Isaiah 51:3


'Thus says the Lord GOD, "On the day that I cleanse you from all your iniquities, I will cause the cities to be inhabited, and the waste places will be rebuilt.

"The desolate land will be cultivated instead of being a desolation in the sight of everyone who passes by.

"They will say, 'This desolate land has become like the garden of Eden; and the waste, desolate and ruined cities are fortified {and} inhabited. Ezekiel 36:33-35

It was prophesied through Moses (and others) that the Jews would suffer worldwide persecution.

And I will scatter you among the heathen, and will draw out a sword after you: and your land shall be desolate, and your cities waste. Leviticus 26:33


It was written by Isaiah that the Jews would be returned to their homeland and the nation would be born in one day. (The day that David Ben Gurion declared Israel an Independent nation, it was voted on and recognized by the UN that very day - May 14, 1948.)

Who has heard such a thing? Who has seen such things? Can a land be born in one day? Can a nation be brought forth all at once? As soon as Zion travailed, she also brought forth her sons. Isaiah 68:6

For the time is coming when I will restore the fortunes of my people of Israel and Judah. I will bring them home to this land that I gave to their ancestors, and they will possess it and live here again. I, the Lord, have spoken!" Jeremiah 30:3



I could go on and on but I think I've made my point. Who could know thousands of years before these things took place that they would happen? Only God! He has accurately described these things through His prophets that have already happened so we know that the remaining prophesies about the future will come to pass just as those have.

My prayer is that America will continue to support and stand by Israel. The Lord has promised blessings on those who do.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. May all who love this city prosper. Psalm 122:6

I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you. All the families of the earth will be blessed through you. Genesis 12:3


Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. As you do, you are praying for the Lord's return. Maranatha!!!

$57.04

$57.04! That's how much it just cost to fill up my tank - OUCH!!! I can remember when I thought gas had skyrocketed when it went over a dollar. Now it seems that I need a part-time job just to pay for the gas to get me to my full-time job.

What is Your EQ? (Eschatology Quotient)

Think you know Biblical prophecy? Test your knowledge by taking this EQ test.

(Difficulty level: basic-moderate)

1. How long is the period known as the Tribulation Period?

7 years
1 week
1000 years
the scriptures don't give an exact time


2. The Seventieth Week of Daniel is also known as....

Armageddon
The Tribulation Period
Period of the Great White Throne Judgment
The Millennium


3. Which is NOT a term used for the antichrist?

The prince that shall come
The Harlot of Babylon
The Beast of Revelation
Son of Perdition


4. Which in NOT classified as one of the prophetic books of the Bible?

Deuteronomy
Hosea
Zechariah
Isaiah


5. According to this theory, the church will not go through the 70th Week of Daniel.

Pre-Tribulation
Post-Tribulation
Amillennialism
Dispensationalism


6. According to Christ, those in Judea should flee to the mountains when they see...

the rise of the antichrist
the Abomination of Desolation
the Gog-Magog Invasion
the rise of the Kings of the East


7. Who are the 144,000?

those sealed of the tribes of Israel
the maximum number of Jehovah Witnesses allowed in heaven
the number of seraphim surrounding the throne of God
the tribulation saints from all nations


8. In what book can you find this verse:"And he will make a firm covenant with the many for one week"

Revelation
Matthew
Ezekiel
Daniel


9. Which nation is NOT among those believed to take part in the Magog invasion?

Iran
Ethiopia
Russia
China


10. After being bound, when will Satan be loosed again?

during the Tribulation period
after the millennium
when the seventh seal is broken
for the great battle of Armageddon

Well, how did you do? Better than you expected? Worst than you expected? Click the button below to score.
Scoring
10- Excellent! You are an eschological scholar
9- So, you've been studying, huh? Very Good!
8- Not so bad, but you need to venture to other prophetic books besides Revelation
7- You know a little but an indepth study will sharpen your EQ
6 and under - Dig more into the prophetic books - you'll be so blessed if you do!

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY AMERICA!!!

I love my country!!!

Make Way for the Kings of the East

Rev 16:12 And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared.

Dan 11:44
"But rumors from the East and from the North will disturb him, and he will go forth with great wrath to destroy and annihilate many.

The "Kings of the East" is a term we find in Biblical Prophecy. Who are they exactly? We don't know for sure but we do know that they play a role in the End Times events. Therefore, we need to closely observe the economic and military growth of the countries to the east of the Lord's city, Jerusalem. How are they doing today? Let's take a look at a few of them.



China is world's fourth-largest economy: World Bank


BEIJING (Reuters) - China has squeaked by Britain by the tiniest of margins to become the world's fourth-largest economy, according to the World Bank's latest calculations.

The World Bank said that by its official measure China produced $2.263825 trillion in output in 2005. That was just $94 million, or 0.004 percent, more than Britain.

The United States, Japan and Germany remain the world's first-, second- and third-largest economies, respectively, according to the World Bank, which posted its 2005 rankings at the weekend on its Web site (www.worldbank.org).

For Full article: http://today.reuters.com/business/newsArticle.aspx?type=ousiv&storyID=2006-07-03T083224Z_01_PEK180854_RTRIDST_0_BUSINESSPRO-ECONOMY-CHINA-GDP-DC.XML

Japanese stocks rise on Wall Street gains, dollar lower vs yen

TOKYO (AP): Japanese stocks rose Tuesday morning to extend gains for a fourth session, following a Bank of Japan survey showing improving business sentiment and U.S. stock gains overnight. The dollar was lower against the yen.

For full article: http://thestaronline.com/news/story.asp?file=/2006/7/4/apworld/20060704110805&sec=apworld

Survey raises prospect of Japan rate rise

TOKYO: Major Japanese companies plan to boost spending on new plants and equipment as they grow more confident about the economic outlook, according to a survey released yesterday. The findings raised expectations of an end to zero interest rates as soon as next week.

For full article: http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/7/4/business/14732031&sec=business

US plans US$5 billion arms sale to Pakistan

2.40pm Tuesday, July 4, 2006

By Jim Wolf
WASHINGTON - The Bush Administration has said it plans to sell Pakistan up to 36 advanced F-16 fighter jets built by Lockheed Martin Corp. in a weapons package that could be worth more than US$5 billion ($8.2bn).
The proposed sale of 18 new "Fighting Falcon" fighters with an option for 18 more demonstrates the United States' commitment to a long-term relationship with Pakistan, White House spokesman Tony Snow told reporters.
The US State Department said it was part of a drive to broaden a strategic partnership with Pakistan and advance US interests in South Asia.

For full article: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/story.cfm?c_id=3&ObjectID=10389690

Indonesian Currency

The Indonesian rupiah rose to the highest in more than six weeks Monday on speculation that investors will add to holdings of the nation's stocks and high- yielding bonds.
The rupiah is the second-best performing Asian currency this year as investors buy the country's debt securities, which yield about 7.3 percentage points more than U.S. Treasuries. The deputy governor of the central bank, Aslim Tadjuddin, last week said the rupiah could advance if inflation was contained and exports expanded.

South Korea

The South Korean won gained to the strongest in almost a month on optimism that growth in Asia's third-largest economy would accelerate

For full article: http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/07/03/bloomberg/sxforex.php

U.S. Authenticates Bin Laden's Voice

WASHINGTON (AP) - Fugitive terrorist leader Osama bin Laden is apparently still alive and spreading his message.

In an audio Internet posting, the elusive al-Qaida mastermind endorses the terrorist network's new leader in Iraq and warns Shiites there against collaborating with the United States to fight Sunni insurgents.

After a technical analysis by the CIA, the Bush administration said Sunday it had determined that the voice heard on the recording is bin Laden's.

In the message posted Saturday, bin Laden also warned nations not to send troops to Somalia, where Islamic militants have taken control of the capital and much of the south.

For full article: http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/bw-other/2006/jul/03/070305116.html

I think I may be the only person on earth holding to this view, but I have serious doubts that this man is still alive. I just really don't believe he is. I think this man bit the dust and met his maker a long time ago. Before we went over to Afghanistan, he would always have video tapes of himself spouting his hateful messages, but since then we have only had these audiotapes. Why is this extremely arrogant man still not showing his face with video tapes? He has certainly never been camera shy. The closest they have come is posting a picture of him while playing audio of his supposed voice. It does not compute. I don't care how much the CIA's intelligence technical analysis confirms the identity of the audio tapes, I just don't buy it.

July 4th Tribute To A Christian Nation

A Foundation Built on Faith
from the June 27, 2006 eNews issue -www.KHouse.org

Independence Day is rapidly approaching. As you celebrate the coming holiday, we hope you will take a moment to reflect on our nation's rich history and the principles on which it was founded.

"We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness - That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed…" -The Declaration of Independence

"The sacred rights of mankind are not to be rummaged for, among old parchments, or musty records. They are written, as with a sun beam in the whole volume of human nature, by the hand of the divinity itself; and can never be erased or obscured by mortal power." -Alexander Hamilton

"We have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion...Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other." -John Adams

"Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers, and it is the duty as well as the privilege and interest of our Christian nation to select and prefer Christians for their rulers." -John Jay, First Chief Justice of the Supreme Court

"Upon my arrival in the United States, the religious aspect of the country was the first thing that struck my attention...The Americans combine the notions of Christianity and of liberty so intimately in their minds, that it is impossible to make them conceive the one without the other." -Alexis de Tocqueville, French Historian

"The religion which has introduced civil liberty, is the religion of Christ and his apostles, which enjoins humility, piety and benevolence; which acknowledges in every person a brother, or a sister, and a citizen with equal rights. This is genuine Christianity, and to this we owe our free constitutions of government." -Noah Webster

"And can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are of the gift of God? That they are not to be violated but with His wrath? Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just: that his justice cannot sleep forever." -Thomas Jefferson

"Of all the dispositions and habits, which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure, reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle." -George Washington

"Those people who will not be governed by God will be ruled by tyrants." -William Penn

"The Almighty God has blessed our land in many ways. He has given our people stout hearts and strong arms with which to strike mighty blows for freedom and truth. He has given to our country a faith which has become the hope of all peoples in an anguished world." -Franklin D. Roosevelt

"The right to freedom being the gift of the Almighty...The rights of the colonists as Christians...may be best understood by reading and carefully studying the institution of The Great Law Giver and Head of the Christian Church, which are to be found clearly written and promulgated in the New Testament." -Samuel Adams

"I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. What I can do, I should do and, with the help of God, I will do!" -Everett Hale, Chaplain of the United States Senate

"Almighty God...I yield thee humble and hearty thanks that thou has preserved me from the danger of the night past, and brought me to the light of the day, and the comforts thereof, a day which is consecrated to thine own service and for thine own honor. Let my heart, therefore, Gracious God, be so affected with the glory and majesty of it, that I may not do mine own works, but wait on thee, and discharge those weighty duties thou requirest of me. Give me grace to hear thee calling on me in thy word, that it may be wisdom, righteousness, reconciliation and peace to the saving of the soul in the day of the Lord Jesus. Grant that I may hear it with reverence, receive it with meekness, mingle it with faith, and that it may accomplish in me, Gracious God, the good work for which thou has sent it. Bless my family, kindred, friends and country, be our God and guide this day and for ever for His sake, who lay down in the Grave and arose again for us, Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen." -From the Prayer Journal of George Washington

On behalf of everyone here at Koinonia House, we hope you have a safe and memorable 4th of July.
Related Links: • Strategic Trends: America's Challenge - Koinonia House
• Hosea, Can You See? - MP3 Download - Special Offer

Hundreds of WMDs Found in Iraq

WASHINGTON — The United States has found 500 chemical weapons in Iraq since 2003, and more weapons of
mass destruction are likely to be uncovered, two Republican lawmakers said Wednesday.

"We have found weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, chemical weapons," Sen. Rick Santorum, R-Pa., said in a quickly called press conference late Wednesday afternoon.
Reading from a declassified portion of a report by the National Ground Intelligence Center, a Defense Department intelligence unit, Santorum said: "Since 2003, coalition forces have recovered approximately 500 weapons munitions which contain degraded mustard or sarin nerve agent. Despite many efforts to locate and destroy Iraq's pre-Gulf War chemical munitions, filled and unfilled pre-Gulf War chemical munitions are assessed to still exist."

For full article: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,200499,00.html

Other sources: http://www.cia.gov/cia/reports/iraq_wmd_2004/
http://www.foxnews.com/projects/pdf/Iraq_WMD_Declassified.pdf
www.cia.gov/cia/reports/ iraq_wmd_2004/chap5.html (image)

National ID Card a Future Job Requirement?

Mike Madden
Republic Washington Bureau
Jun. 15, 2006 06:09 PM
WASHINGTON - The job application of the future may require showing would-be bosses a new ID card proving prospective employees are who they say they are.

Full article: http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/0615idcards-ON.html

When I read the news it would almost be laughable if it weren't so tragic how we are unwittingly setting the stage for the coming world leader to take over.

And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. Rev. 13:17

Now is the National ID card the mark of the beast? Of course not! But how does a man come to be able to prevent people from buying or selling anything unless they have this mark requirement? There has to be some type of system in place which can keep track of who is buying and selling, right?

Well, in the quest for a more "safe" and "peaceful" world, systems are being devised every day to keep track of what we do. Even in stores there are these things called Value Cards that we need in order to take advantage of sales, which keeps track of what we are buying. Some stores ask for our phone number in order to make a purchase. Why? What's the purpose? They claim that the information is used "to be able to better serve our customers." Now, there are shopping surveys which ask questions about age, race, and income which I believe are truly tracking trends among various demographics. However, Value Cards ask personal information such as our address, phone number and employment. I would like to know how knowing that personal information is helping the stores better serve me as a customer. I don't see any personalized services catering to my personal shopping needs when I visit the stores. If they want to better be able to serve me by knowing what my shopping habits are, then I would expect to have my own personal cart waiting at the store for me when I arrive with every item that I need. After all, after all these years of tracking the stores should know when I usually shop, what my favorite brands are, and how often I run out of eggs. In fact, since they seem to need to know my address, then why not a personal delivery to my home?

Now before you think I am just another one of those conspiracy nuts who believes that there is a conspiracy plot behind every bush, I assure you that I am not. I don't believe that there is someone behind the scenes who gathered all of the big chain store executives together in a plot to compile information on citizens. However, I do believe that we are slowly and subtly being conditioned to believe that all these information gathering devices are innocent. It is softening the blow for the acceptance of a coming Global device, without which you cannot own a business to make a living, or buy food to feed your family.

Need my address and work information in order for me to buy a sale item at your store? Sure, no big deal! What does it hurt?

Need a national card to even hold a job? Why not? After all, we already have Social Security numbers for that.

Need a special mark in order to buy or sell? No biggie! We already pretty much have to anyway with all the other cards we hold.

So while we just shrug off yet another omen of future control as nothing, just remember the world will become as described in Revelation 13:17 some kind of way.

Global Education

He alone, who owns the youth, gains the Future!

Satan's vices are always the same, repackaged in bright new "PC" wrapping, and we fall for them every time. The above quote was from Adolf Hitler in his 1935 speech at Reichsparteitag. Hitler knew that in order to ensure the ingraining and survival of a particular philosophy on a culture; you must completely indoctrinate the children to your view. It seems this same mindset is now the driving force behind the new move towards Global Education. The following is a part of a news story from The Washington Times.

Learning globally

By George Archibald
THE WASHINGTON TIMES

The Bush administration has begun issuing grants to help spread a United Nations-sponsored school program that aims to become a "universal curriculum" for teaching global citizenship, peace studies and equality of world cultures.
The goal is to devise a curriculum to teach "a set of culturally neutral universal values to which all people aspire," based on human rights, equality of the sexes and "open-mindedness to change and obligation to environmental protection and sustainable development."
The U.S. Education Department has issued its first $1.2 million grant to implement the European-based International Baccalaureate (IB) program in middle schools that are to become "feeder schools" for the IB's high school diploma program in low-income school districts.
"We are ever mindful of the lessons of September 11, one of which is that all future measures of a rigorous K-12 education must include a solid grounding in other cultures, other languages and other histories," Education Secretary Rod Paige said a year ago as he announced new global-education initiatives in U.S. schools.
"In other words, we need to put the 'world' back into 'world-class' education," he said.

For full article:http://www.raidersnewsupdate.com/lead-story358.htm

Now let's not be mistaken, this Global Curriculum the President is pushing through the Department of Education has nothing to do with raising the nation's failing test scores. This program is geared toward teaching (or indoctrinating, I would prefer to say), our children with so-called "universal values". Hitler used the same approach when attempting to mold the young German minds to his fascist ideology. I work in the education field, so I am well aware of the anti-Christian sentiments held by many. I don't want anyone in the school system teaching my own children any of their PC values that may go against their Christian upbringing. It is not their place to do so.

I ran across an article by a very articulate sixteen year old at the time named Ashley, called Public Schools and What You're Up Against. In the article, she describes her experiences as a Christian student in the public schools, and the battles she endured in the system. It is well worth the read. If the schools are already attempting to force their values on children now, how much more will they with the establishment of this Global curriculum?

Teach my children to read and write and leave the teaching of values to me!!!!

Zarqawi is Killed

Zarqawi in Heaven Now, Family Says
By Julie Stahl
CNSNews.com
Jerusalem Bureau Chief
June 08, 2006

Jerusalem (CNSNews.com) - The killing of al Qaeda leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi will not put an end to the "resistance" and will only increase the enemies of America in Iraq, a Hamas spokesman said on Thursday.

Full article: http://www.cnsnews.com/ViewForeignBureaus.asp?Page=/ForeignBureaus/archive/200606/INT20060608e.html

Al Qaeda, as well as the other terrorist agencies are churning out thousands upon thousands of anti-American terrorists on a regular basis. Many Mid-East countries continue to publish their anti-semitic/anti-American propaganda literature to indoctrinate their children, and many other countries around the world who are shamelessly in bed with those countries for their oil wealth, and therefore turn a blind eye to it all, join in the criticism of the U.S.

So this quote: "Increase the enemies of America in Iraq" - Highly unlikely!!!!

The Atheist Agenda

Mt. Soledad Cross that several organizations are attempting to have removed


There is a movement in this country by Atheists and Atheist Organizations to remove any mention of God in our country. The movement includes everything from the removal of prayer in schools, the Ten Commandments from government buildings, to crosses of war veteran memorials on public properties. You have to wonder why there is such a strong, united effort to remove something that you don't even believe in.

I did a little web-surfing to Atheist websites and I found that they all had one thing in common. There was a lot of bashing of Christianity, Christians, the Bible, and Jesus. Of course, no surprises there. However, it seemed as though Christianity was the only religion strongly criticized. If an atheist is a person who doesn't believe in the existence of God, then why aren't other religions given equal bashing time? Plenty of other religions believe in some type of god. For instance, Muslims believe in Allah, and Hindus believe in millions of gods; hence, millions of bashing opportunities you'd think. I think the answer to this question lies in the same reason the Atheist movement is so strongly trying to remove all remnants of Christian symbols from public places.

I conclude that the real issue they are dealing with isn't an unbelief in God, but rather an enmity towards Christ.

Christ, and the removal of anything linked to Him or His ideals and values, seems to be their driving force. This strong desire to rid this country of Him has driven these people to form entire organizations for this sole purpose, and carry law suits to State courts as well as the highest court in the land, the U.S. Supreme Court. I contend that you do not spend that amount of time, energy and money on something that you believe is only a figment of other's imagination in the first place. The belief must certainly be there.


Psa 14:1
The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God."

Rom 1:19
because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them.
Rom 1:20
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.

More Strides Toward "Peace and Safety"

1Th 5:3
While they are saying, "Peace and safety!" then destruction will come upon them suddenly like labor pains upon a woman with child, and they will not escape.




Possibly, if I were not one closely watching trends toward the fulfillment of Biblical prophecy, I would find nothing alarming about the agreement of the three North American leaders joining in hopes of securing our borders and strengthing trade. However, with the knowledge of what our future holds, my mind is conditioned to see the end and look backwards at how we could have possibly made it to that point.

What do we know from scripture? We know that there is a time period coming when a great leader will arise who will gain control over most of the world.

Rev. 13:7 ......And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation.

For this to happen, the world would have to be under one government, a common ruling body. It seems pretty unbelievable to think that this could happen to our world given the amount of various nations and people groups. We pride ourselves in America on being our own independent, sovereign, and free country held together by a strong constitution. If we are going to fall under the control of this great world leader, I contend that it will happen in one of two ways. There will either be a huge catastrophic event that happens to make Americans hand over or lose control over our governance, or little by little steps will be taken to make it easier for someone to take authority. I used to think there would have to be some huge event, however recent trends have caused me to reconsider.

Already we have nations joining together to work towards a common goal. In Europe there are already 25 countries making up the European Union. Last year George W. Bush met with Mexican President Vicente Fox and Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin. The purpose of their meeting was to, "...develop new avenues of cooperation that will make our open societies safer and more secure, our businesses more competitive, and our economies more resilient." To achieve this goal, the North American countries plan to unite in order to build a stronger economy. It seems as though they are taking their cue from the European countries. Not only are there plans to build a North American Community with similar goals of those of the EU, but under the advice of Robert Pastor, who was the Vice Chair of the council on Foreign Relations Task Force on the Future of North America, consideration may be given to replace the U.S. and Canadian dollars and Mexican peso with a currency called the Amero to compete with Europe's Euro. One report by Jerome Corsi of RaidersNewsUpdate, described the North American Union as, "...envisioned to create a super-regional political authority that could override the sovereignty of the United States on immigration policy and trade issues." Of course this is all a far cry from giving up our sovereingty as a nation, but I suggest that it is one in perhaps many small steps in that direction. Today our focus may be on border control and economic issues, however after perceived successes in these areas, other common goals may come into play later. With the majority of Europe uniting into one body, and three economic powers in North America uniting, half the battle of uniting the world under the control of one has been taken care of. In other words, it's much easier to gain control of one European body and one North American body than attempting to conquer the individual member states of each.

The three leaders have termed the union as the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America. They have stated in their joint statement that they are in cooperation to enhance the security of the people; to make our societies safer and more secure; to maintain high standards of health and safety; and to make sure our region is a more secure home for our people and future generations.

Safety, Security! Safety, Security! The words that should evoke feelings of comfort only sound the alarms for prophecy watchers. We know that in the last days the buzz words will be peace and safety. We know that the coming world leader, who most refer to as the Anti-Christ, will use the guise of peace to gain control. In Daniel 8: 25, it is said of this ruler that "...by peace he shall destroy many." Paul says in his letter to the Thessalonians concerning the end times that during a time when people are concerned about peace and safety, sudden destruction will come. When we hear of stories of movements to make the world safer and more peaceful, we know that it is moving closer and closer to the end. Jesus told us to recognize the signs of the times.

Matthew 24:32-33 "Now learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its buds become tender and its leaves begin to sprout, you know without being told that summer is near. Just so, when you see the events I've described beginning to happen, you can know his return is very near, right at the door."

Maranatha!!!

Can Iran Destroy America Without Weapons?

(Iranian President Maumoud Ahmadinejad)

America has long been a thorn in the side of the Middle Eastern countries bent on the destruction of Israel. Decades of insurgencies and several wars attempting to oust the Jews from the land have resulted in mounting frustrations for the surrounding Muslim nations. Even though initially Israel was far inferior in military might, she managed to withstand each blow of her enemies. (You can compare the weaponry of the Israeli defense Forces to the Arabs: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1948_Arab-Israeli_War). Ignoring all of the prophecies of the Lord bringing the Jews back to the land He gave them, the Arab nations have continuously blamed the United States for the success of Israel. Therefore, because of the support the U.S. has shown Israel, she is seen as an evil that must be stopped.

There is a big problem which these nations face. The United States is still a military powerhouse compared to the rest of the world. How do you destroy the world's biggest superpower if you are militarily inferior? To take down a giant, you must find and focus on its weakness.

The United States has a dirty little secret. The entire United States economy may be uncomfortably dependent on an agreement it has made with Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter. The agreement was that any oil purchased from Saudi Arabia, who produces 40% of the world's oil supply, would be accepted only in United States fiat dollars. In short, any nation wishing to purchase oil from this country would have to hold large dollar reserves. This is a key to the sustainability of the U.S. economy. However, this also makes the U.S. most vulnerable and susceptible to the will of the international community. If OPEC nations decide to accept other currency, such as the Euro, then the U.S. economy can collapse right on top of her enormous deficit. Iraq already tried this in 2000, when deciding to accept Euros in trade for oil. At that point the Euro began to grow against the dollar. This step was reversed however when the U.S. invaded Iraq.

Iran, the second largest OPEC oil producing country, has honed in on the weakness of the American economy. Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has already initiated steps to begin trading oil in Euros instead of the all-mighty dollar. If nations decide to jump the dollar ship, the value of the dollar will sink. Iran, can begin the process of the destruction of America without ever dropping a bomb.

So what's the solution? The solution to the Iraq question seemed to be an invasion. But can the United States attempt to justify another war against a country when the current war is becoming increasingly unpopular? It seemed to work for the moment to achieve its purpose, but most of the population remains unaware of the dire state of the economy. How can the public then be convinced to support troops going into another country, especially one so close to developing nuclear capabilities?

No! I don't believe that the solution to America's problem has anything to do with invasions, oil independence, or decreasing national debt. America can learn a lot from Israel's past.

Psalms 127:1.....Unless the Lord protects a city,
guarding it with sentries will do no good.

Israel has been able to sustain herself as a nation only by divine intervention. There is no other logical conclusion one can come to when examining the seemingly impossible odds the nation has had to overcome. Israel continues to exist as a nation because it is God's will that it does. On the same token, America has been so blessed as she has because the Lord has chosen to bless her. If America wants to continue to enjoy her prosperity, she must first acknowledge where her blessings come from. Banning the Lord and His laws from schools and public property would definitely not fall under acknowledging the source of our blessings. Voting to put those in office who support laws to ban any mention of God in our society, or passively sitting by idlely is not helping the cause either.

If the Lord does not protect our great country that I love, no amount of economic or military might will make a bit of difference to our survival. Be careful of what you ask for, you just might get it. If we continue to tell the Lord that He is not welcome in our country, we may get just that.

"If my people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land." - 2 Chronicles 7:14

As Christians, we bear the responsibility for the future of our country. If we want to deter the destruction of our beloved nation, the Lord has told us what to do as His people, called by His name.

Sources:
http://www.iranmania.com/News/ArticleView/Default.asp?NewsCode=42602&NewsKind=Current%20Affairs
http://www.projectcensored.org/publications/2004/19.html
http://www.mises.org/fullstory.aspx?control=1386
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1948_Arab-Israeli_War

What's a Little Loss of Privacy for the Sake of Security?

So what's the big deal anyway? We sacrifice a little privacy for the sake of security. I mean, have we forgotten so quickly the images of the planes flying into the Twin Towers and the desperately hopeless bodies flailing out of the windows of the buildings to their deaths, right before it collapsed and came crashing to the ground? Those images are so horrible to relive that we have to do something, right? We all know our borders aren't secure, so we have to do something about those anti-American terrorists over here plotting our deaths on our own soil. So if the government wants to ensure our safety, then it must be able to take whatever measures necessary in order to make sure it can spy on whomever it deems necessary. If that means that they need to monitor our phone records which will inevitably lead to listening to our phone calls without our consent, (who are they trying to fool?), big deal! If I am not doing anything wrong then it shouldn't matter, right? So what if they know I'm talking to my Mom about my travel plans to Florida this summer, or to my friend about my latest recipe endeavor? Isn't the safety of thousands or maybe even millions of Americans more important? And they are only really interested in the bad guys anyway. But, wait a minute! What is a bad guy? What is a terrorist? I just looked up several definitions, which basically say about the same thing.

A terrorist is a radical who employs terror as a political weapon; usually organizes with other terrorists in small cells; often uses religion as a cover for terrorist activities.

Now I am asking this question because several years ago I had a rather lengthy dialogue with a penpal of mine from South Africa. She is a Muslim girl that I didn't know throughout the years of writing to her that she held very strong anti-American sentiments. Right after 9/11 we began discussing the events of the time, which inevitably led the discussion up to the entire Intifada movement in Israel. Suicide bombings were a daily occurrence. However to her, the Palestinians involved in the suicide bombings were "freedom fighters". This didn't surprise me since everything that she and I discussed, I had heard many times by those who shared her views. Those that I saw as terrorists, she regarded as freedom fighters. So the question is:

Is being a terrorist in the eye of the beholder?

If being a terrorist is indeed in the eye of the beholder, then who is deemed a terrorist depends on who is defining the person, right? Yes sure today when we think of a terrorist we think of someone of Middle Eastern descent with very radical views and bent of the destruction of Israel and America (mainly for her support of Israel). Basically, this person we believe is against peace and against what we stand for in our country. This is mainly who our current president has in mind and is targeting. But Bush has only a short time left as our leader and new leaders will eventually emerge on the scene, with the same laws, giving the same liberties, on the books. Now we have someone else doing the "beholding". Now this new person with access to the same laws, giving the same liberties to the government, is defining who a terrorist is. Sure, the goal remains to target those that are against peace and against what we stand for. But what do we stand for? Do we even agree as Amercians on that? The big buzz word in our country is that everloving "T" word - Tolerance. After all, those terrorists sure aren't tolerant of those who disagree with their political views, are they? But there are also others that aren't tolerant either- like those Christians who believe that Jesus is the only way to salvation. They are in essence saying that no one can get to heaven except by believing in Jesus. Now that isn't very tolerant in light of the fact that most people in the world do not believe in Jesus.

So now we have to revisit that definition of a terrorist.

A terrorist is a radical who employs terror as a political weapon; usually organizes with other terrorists in small cells; often uses religion as a cover for terrorist activities.

There is no doubt that the whole thought of your way as being the only way is pretty radical. That fundamentalist "Religious Right" group is for sure influential in the political arena. They are always sticking their noses in political affairs. Gee, haven't these people ever heard of separation of church and state? But do they use terror? Well, what can be more terrorising than the thought of eternal punishment? They certainly organize in small groups with others like them under the name of religion. Oh my goodness, I think we have another terrorist organization! Of course they don't believe that they are terrorists, but isn't being a terrorist in the eye of the beholder?

OK, so now I am a leader of the most powerful nation in the world and I have deemed that these Christians are a terrorist organization. They are certainly against the American values of peace and tolerance because they won't let go of their radical, intolerant views of Jesus being the only way to salvation. Their political influence is making it impossible to move forward as a nation because they refuse to embrace the ideas of all the other religions represented in the country. They also keep trying to push their own values on the culture, like trying to make us look at those laws reflecting their values called the Ten Commandments on our public properties. What is the difference between them and radical Islam? Can't see much. After all, one uses physical intimidation and the other uses psychological intimidation. Hey, I know it is a stretch but I am doing the "beholding" so I can judge however I want, remember?

Well, luckily we have these laws on the book that our previous president George W. Bush put in place years ago, among which makes it legal for the government to spy on its citizens if it believes that they may be engaged in terrorist activities. We must keep watch on those Christians and monitor their movements. After all, now that we have deemed that they are terrorists, their rights as American citizens are now forfeited.

So what is a little privacy forfeited in the name of security? What is the big deal anyway? Who is it going to hurt? After all, they are only going after the terrorists and not regular, law-abiding citizens like you and me, right?


Farfetched?

Well, we know that the scriptures tell us that there is going to be a coming world leader who will have control over the whole world, and who will not be very friendly to Christians.

Rev. 13:7 And the beast was allowed to wage war against God's holy people and to overcome them. And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation.

Now this world leader is going to have incredible control, even over our economic system, as we have not seen in our country in our lifetime.

Rev. 13: 16-17 He required everyone-great and small, rich and poor, slave and free-to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. 17 And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name.

But in our country? Our free country? How can that happen? Well, it will happen because the scriptures tell us so. How do we lose our sovereignty and freedoms? Just one little security-building law at a time.

(I wrote this commentary in response to this news item: http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2006-05-10-nsa_x.htm )