{"title":"Bible Teachings","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"are-ghosts-real","title":"Are Ghosts Real?","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003each\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e year at Halloween, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eghostly images appear everywhere\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. You can spot them \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003en l\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eawns and rooftops, in\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eside\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e malls\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edepartment stores, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand at\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e parties\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhy is that? \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOur modern H\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ealloween traditions \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eare \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebased on the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eancient \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003enotion \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eof\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ereal\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e ghosts\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. These ghosts are \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003esaid to be \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethe spirits of dead people\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e who \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ereturn to haunt the living. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIs that possible?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHalloween \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003etraditions \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebegan centuries ago among the Celtic peoples\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewho migrated to Britain and surrounding areas. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAccording to tradition\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, o\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003en the night of October 31, the spirits of dead people crossed over from the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOther Side\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e to bother the living. To protect themselves, country folks would \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elay \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003esamples of their \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003enewly harvested crops beside their doors as peace offerings. These foods were considered \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e“\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003etreats\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efor the disembodied, contributing to t\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eoday’s \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003etrick\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e-\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e-\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003etreat\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003epractice. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePeople hoped \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethe ghosts would take the food\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand leave the\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003em\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e alone. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA similar holiday in Mexico is \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ecalled\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003et\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ehe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDay of the Dead\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFrom \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOctober 31\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNovember 2, Mexicans pray for their dead friends and relatives\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. They \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003evisit cemeteries\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e and leave \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003egifts on graves \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003esuch as\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e food, candles, incense, or pictures of the person buried there. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBehind this tradition \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eis \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethe idea that the ghosts of the dead still think, talk, and assist the living.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhat Happens at Death?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eM\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eany \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edifferent \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eideas \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eare floating around today \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eabout what \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ehappens\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e when \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003epeople take\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003etheir last breath. Some believe a soul either soars straight to heaven or descends into hell. Some believe it flies into a holding place called purgatory\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, or \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eeffortlessly\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e slips into the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003es\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003epirit \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ew\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eorld. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eome believe the soul goes nowhere at all\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e—t\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ehe entire person is just plain dead, resting in a grave, without thought or feelings\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Holy Bible\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e clears up the confusion\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, and i\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ets message m\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ey surprise you.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTake a look\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe dead \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edo not \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003epraise the Lord, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003enor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e any \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewho \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ego down into silence (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePsalm 115:17\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHis [a person who dies] breath \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003egoe\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eth\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e forth, he \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ereturn\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eeth\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e to his earth\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein that very day \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ehis thoughts perish\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePsalm 146:4\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e KJV, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eitalics added).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559685\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe dead know nothing\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEcclesiastes 9:5\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e italics added). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e[David prayed] Enlighten my eyes,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e l\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eest I sleep \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethe sleep of death\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePsalm 13:3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, italics added). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThese verses \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eteach\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e that \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edead \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eperson knows\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eabsolutely \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003enothing\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. The dead have \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eno \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethoughts\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e and\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e lie\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e silent in the grave\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, having \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eentered \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e“the sleep of death.” \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBased on \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eth\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eese\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eclear\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Bible teaching\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003es\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethe common beliefs about ghosts are\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e impossible\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. A\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e person’s soul, spirit, or ghost \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ecan’t\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003econsciously \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eexit a body\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt can’t\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e f\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eloat around\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e in the atmosphere\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, visit \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eParis\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLos Angeles, and then \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ecommunicate with the living\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e—not\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eon Halloween, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003et\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ehe Day of the Dead, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eor at any other time.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMediums on TV\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWait a minute!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ey\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eou may be thinking. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eI know \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethat \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethe ghosts of dead people can speak to the living, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebecause\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e I have friends who have talked to real spirits! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePerhaps you do. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOr maybe you’ve \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eseen\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e a psychic medium \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ereceive\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e messages from the dead relatives of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e studio audience\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e member\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Some of these seminars are broadcast live on TV before millions of viewers. What about that? Before delving deeper, notice what the Bible says about dead people returning to communicate with the living.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAs the cloud disappears and vanishes away,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e he who goes down to the grave does not come up.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHe shall never return to his house,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNor shall his place know him anymore.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e(\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJob 7:9,10\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTh\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eis passage \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eteach\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ees\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e that a person “who goes down to the grave does \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003enot \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ecome up.” \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, spirit communication with the deceased is impossible. But critical clarification is in order. God’s Book does teach that ghosts \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eare\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ereal\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e and that spirit communication \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ees\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e take place. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eL\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eook\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e closely:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e “\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere shall not be found among you anyone… who conjures spells\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eor a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord” (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDeuteronomy 18:10\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e-12\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, italics added). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eR\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eeal\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emediums who communicate with \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ereal\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e spirits \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edo exist\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eY\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBible urges us to steer clear of them, just like \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTitanic should have avoided that \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edeadly\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e iceberg. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhy? Is God trying to prevent us from finding comfort\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e? Does He not want us to receive\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e guidance from \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edead relatives\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e who wish to help us\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e? No\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003et at all\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. His reason is simple. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHe wants to protect us from\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e malicious, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003einvisible \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eentities \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethat \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ecan \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elook like, talk like, and act like \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethe deceased\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWho are \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethese entities?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSpirits of Demons\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGet ready for a shock. The last book of the Bible \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elifts the veil \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efor us.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e“\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFor they are spirits of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edemons\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eperforming signs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, which go \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eout to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethe kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e…\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e called… \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eArmageddon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e” (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRevelation 16:14\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e-\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e16\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, italics added). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHere the Bible warns us \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eabout\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e the tricky activity of “spirits of de\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003es” right before the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eb\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eattle of A\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ermageddon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDemons\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e are fallen angels\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. They rebelled against their loving Creator and\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e were kicked out of heaven with their leader, Lucifer (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRevelation 12:7-9\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e). They now inhabit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e the invisible world\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTheir\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e goal is to deceive us and lead us away from God and Bible truth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eH\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eere’s a\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003enother\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e sober thought\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eO\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ene\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e of the most \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ediabolical\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e ways \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eevil angels \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edeceive people\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is by\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eappearing as \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ea\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e ghos\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003et\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWho is more trustworthy than\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e someone’s \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elong-lost Aunt Sue or Grandpa \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBill\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e—\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003er \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eperhaps\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003esome famous \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edead \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eperson\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e This is one \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emethod\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewicked spirits \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003euse\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e to dupe the living into receiving false instruction. This isn’t \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003etrick\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e-\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e-\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003etreat\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, but a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edeadly \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edelusion. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHope Beyond the Cemetery?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e if the dead are \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ereally \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edead, is there hope beyond the cemetery? Yes, there is. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOur\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ehope is\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e centered in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eone \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMan whose name is Jesus Christ. Nearly two thousand years ago, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJesus\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e saw our desperate plight. He realized that sinning against God is the root cause of human suffering\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand death \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eon planet Earth \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e(\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGenesis 3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHe knew that\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e “the wages of sin \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eis\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e death” (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRomans 6:23\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e). But\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebecause \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edidn't\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e want us to die forever\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e He made the supreme sacrifice of love.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eO\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eutside Jerusalem, o\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003en a cruel cross, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJesus\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e allowed Himself to be\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ecrucified\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eto pay\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e the price for our \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003esins (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e1 Corinthians 15:3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAfter triumphantly shouting, “It is finished\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e,” He died \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e(\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJohn 19:30\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eT\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ehree days later, He rose from the dead (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003esee \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMatthew 28:1-7\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn conclusion, the\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Bible teaches \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethat the dead enter an unconscious state of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003esoul \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003esleep until they are resurrected \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e(\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJohn \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e5:28,29; \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e11:11-14; Acts 2:29,34\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. This\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e means \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ethat \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eit’s\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eimpossible for a still-conscious \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003esoul\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eto \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eexit \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ea \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebod\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ey\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e float around\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e as a ghost\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Bible\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ealso urges us to avoid all \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eforms of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ecommunication \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewith \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ereal\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e fallen \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eangels\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewho\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e can easily impersonate the deceased\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e on\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHalloween\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eor at any other time.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNow \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eyou know the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003einside scoop about\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elying \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eghosts. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eYou’ve also been introduced to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eus, your Savior\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHe invites \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eyou\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ediscover\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHis \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elove, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eforgiveness, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003etruth today.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300,\"469777462\":[560,1120,1680,2240,2800,3360,3920,4480,5040,5600,6160,6720],\"469777927\":[0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0],\"469777928\":[1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1]}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eScriptures marked KJV are taken from the King James Version. All other \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eScripture \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eis \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003etaken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42249900294327,"sku":"AGR","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Ghostscoverc3v2.jpg?v=1706711993"},{"product_id":"love-s-last-call","title":"Love's Last Call","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eLove’s Last Call\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eLove is the most frequently used word in pop music, followed by baby, which has nothing to do with infancy. The third most used word is yeah, as in, “Baby, I love you, oh yeah, yeah, yeah.” No, there isn’t a lot of depth to this popular picture of love. But the fact is, we humans are obsessed with love—or at least with the idea of love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eSo is God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eBut His love is the real thing. When the Bible says, “God is love” (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e1 John 4:16\u003c\/span\u003e), it means that God always acts fairly and unselfishly. He does what’s right and best for those He created.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThe last book of the Bible, called The Revelation, highlights God’s special message of love. It’s a message for those living during the last time period of history. The opening chapter tells us the book is a revelation of “Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood” (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eRevelation 1:5\u003c\/span\u003e). God’s love led Him to send His Son to shed “His own blood” for us. When we discover the true meaning of His love and respond to it, we are “washed…from our sins.” We’re transformed and set free for a life of real joy!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThe book of Revelation describes the momentous last days of earth’s history. We find that God’s love motivated Him to communicate three special messages during these last days. These messages are proclaimed by three angels flying over the earth. These angels are symbols of God’s last call, and they appear in Revelation 14:6-12.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Messages of the Three Angels\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThe first angel proclaims “the everlasting gospel.” The word “gospel” means good news, as opposed to good advice. News, unlike advice, is an announcement of past events. The gospel is the good news of what Jesus has already done for us (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e1 Corinthians 15:1-4\u003c\/span\u003e). He lived a pure life of self-sacrificing love. He suffered intensely because of our sins, and then he died a perfect death on our behalf.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eYet even death couldn’t stop His love, or hold Jesus in its clammy grip. He rose from the dead! This is the supreme proof of His victorious love. Anyone who sincerely chooses to believe in Jesus is assured of eternal life. The “everlasting good news” of what Jesus Christ has already finished will bring glory to God forever. We didn’t earn it, and we don’t deserve it, but He did it anyway! That’s good news!\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e   \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eResting on this foundation, the first angel’s message continues. “Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.” (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eRevelation 14:7\u003c\/span\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eIn the Bible, the word “fear” can mean terror, deep respect, or awe. Sometimes, “The fear of the LORD” simply means “to hate evil” (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eProverbs 8:13\u003c\/span\u003e). In the first angel’s message, it means to be deeply in awe of our maker, who is the just judge of all the earth. It also means to become haters of sin. And, as we behold our innocent Savior painfully dying on a cruel cross, it means to be amazed at God’s infinite love and sacrifice on our behalf.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThe first angel’s message urges us to “give glory to Him.” In the Bible, glory is equivalent to God’s character or goodness (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eExodus 33:18-23; 34:5-8\u003c\/span\u003e). To give God glory is to magnify His good character. It means to make Him attractive by drawing others’ attention to His love, unselfishness, faithfulness, and truthfulness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThe first angel says we should give God glory because “the hour of His judgment has come.” This means we are living in a judgment period of history. We are being examined by a holy God whose character is both loving and righteous. The Ten Commandments are God’s standard in the judgment (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eEcclesiastes 12:13,14; James 2:10-12\u003c\/span\u003e). This law teaches us to love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eMatthew 22:36-40; Romans 13:10\u003c\/span\u003e). Jesus Christ’s humble, pure, merciful, and unselfish life reflects this law of love perfectly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThe first angel’s final instruction is to “worship Him who made” all things. This creation reference draws attention to the fourth commandment about the seventh-day Sabbath (compare with \u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eExodus 20:8-11\u003c\/span\u003e). In an age where millions are taught that humans evolved from monkeys, God wants us to remember that He is the source of our existence. He made us. He is God. We are not. Thus, we owe Him our love and loyalty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThe second angel starts by announcing “Babylon is fallen.” The word “Babylon” signifies confusion (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eGenesis 11\u003c\/span\u003e). It represents church organizations that teach confusing errors contrary to Scripture. Sometimes error is even promoted in the name of God’s love and ‘salvation by grace’! But instead of teaching true love, it teaches a watered-down version of love that is permissive of sin. Our response to the cross should be true love – which motivates us to keep God’s law of love, not break it (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eJohn 14:15; 1 John 2:4; 3:4\u003c\/span\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThe third angel’s message is an urgent warning. A just judgment is coming on those who continue to break God’s Ten Commandments—His law of love. Yes, sometimes love has to be tough. Love shakes a person awake to get them out of a burning building. Love shouts at a child to warn her away from a man luring her into a car. The third angel’s message also warns about religious systems called “the beast” and its “image.” These systems, pretending to offer a global solution during a chaotic, global crisis, will enforce rest on Sunday as their “mark” of loyalty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eBut forcing people to obey is contrary to God’s character. After all, “God is love”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e(\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e1 John 4:16\u003c\/span\u003e). Only love can inspire true obedience, not force. In addition, the Bible clearly says that “the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord” (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eExodus 20:10\u003c\/span\u003e). Sunday, “the first day of the week,” is not! Looking deeper, the Sabbath reveals that Jesus Christ is God. Jesus Himself said He is the “Lord of the Sabbath” (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eMatthew 12:8\u003c\/span\u003e). The Sabbath reminds us that our maker established the Sabbath at Creation (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eGenesis 2:1-3\u003c\/span\u003e). This same Creator paid the supreme price for our waywardness, crying out “It is finished!” on the cross.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThose who truly appreciate Jesus’ love choose to serve Him loyally and completely. In the conclusion of the third angel’s message, they are described as those who “keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus” (\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eRevelation 14:12\u003c\/span\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBelieve it or not, the three angels’ messages reveal true love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eChoosing Because of Love\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA teenage boy was raised in a good home. But, straying from his roots, he committed a crime and was thrown into prison for three years. On the day he was released, he decided to visit his mother. He remembered her as being in her forties, with dark hair. But when he knocked, a woman with grey hair and deep wrinkles answered. Gazing on her face, the truth struck him like lightning. “Oh mother!” he cried bitterly, “What have I done to you?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt was a deep conviction of how his sins made his mother suffer that finally brought that young man to repentance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003ePrison didn’t do it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eLove did.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhat will you do with the love of Jesus Christ? He even endured separation from His Father on the cross because of our sins. Will you respond to that love? Will you answer Love’s Last Call?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe time to choose has arrived.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eChoose Jesus Christ today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCover Graphic: “3 Angels” by Nathan Greene, © 1999, 2018 All Rights Reserved, Used by Permission.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42249920774327,"sku":"LLC","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/LovesLastCallCMYK.jpg?v=1706714600"},{"product_id":"the-shabbat-keeps-us","title":"The Shabbat Keeps Us","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Shabbat Keeps Us\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe often feel that there is a great separation between today’s era and ancient ones thousands of years ago. Many things in the world have changed in contemporary times, but one thing remains the same—the seven-day week. Eras and empires have come and gone, and yet we still today are scheduling our very post-modern lives into a seven-day week. Where does this week come from? The seven-day week comes from creation. In six days the Creator brought the universe into being, and He rested on the seventh. What does this tell us about the timelessness of the way we calculate days? We have preserved, for thousands of years, the very time structure that the Creator set up for us originally. “And G-d blessed the seventh day, and hallowed it; because that in it He rested from all His work which G-d in creating had made” (\u003cem\u003eBereshit\u003c\/em\u003e\/Genesis 2:3).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile we all admit that the seven-day week structure is still valid, there are many who would doubt the other part of the Creation story—the part where the seventh day was set aside and made holy for all time. If we hold that the seven-day week is yet a legitimate institution, why is it that many of us fail to agree that the division of that very same week (six days to work with the seventh to rest) is not also in full effect?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of us do, however, believe that this division of the week is still valid. Some of us do understand that the seventh day was set aside as special for all of creation during that first week of the world’s existence. For millennia, the Jewish people have honored the seventh-day Shabbat as the day of rest in holy commemoration of the Creator’s rest during that original creation week.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Shabbat Is For Whom?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome would say that it is only the Jewish people today who should be celebrating the seventh-day Shabbat. This belief is interesting, especially in the light of the fact that G-d instituted the Shabbat before tribes of humanity were established, well before the time of Abraham—in the very Garden of Eden (\u003cem\u003eGan Eden\u003c\/em\u003e). Some hold that Noah, a righteous biblical representative of the “non-Jew,” didn’t hold to the Shabbat, and therefore other non-Jews today also do not need to keep it (commonly referred to as “Noahide Laws”). This is an unfortunate speculation because Noah had a very good understanding of G-d’s laws including the idea of \u003cem\u003ekashrut\u003c\/em\u003e—the separation between clean and unclean, \u003cem\u003ekosher \u003c\/em\u003eand \u003cem\u003etreif\u003c\/em\u003e, so to speak; thus we have no reason to doubt that he had knowledge of the other laws of his Creator, including the Shabbat. G-d spoke to Noah, saying, “of every clean beast thou shalt take to thee seven and seven, each with his mate; and of the beasts that are not clean two [and two], each with his mate” (\u003cem\u003eBereshit\u003c\/em\u003e\/Genesis 7:2). Thus, Noah knew much of the laws of the Torah, which wasn’t officially given to Israel and the nations until much later.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eShmot\u003c\/em\u003e\/Exodus 20:1, it says, “G-d spoke all these words.” The rabbis teach through midrash that when G-d spoke at Sinai, His words of Torah were heard in the seventy languages known at the time, symbolizing the whole world, as it were (\u003cem\u003eShmot Rabba\u003c\/em\u003e 5:9). If the Torah were only for Israel, why would it need to be heard in all the known languages at the time? This implies that the law was given, again, to all the existing tribes, tongues and nations of the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the Torah itself, the injunction is to “remember the Shabbat to keep it holy” (\u003cem\u003eShmot\/\u003c\/em\u003eExodus 20:8-11). Oddly enough, the saying, or \u003cem\u003emitzvah\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e,\u003c\/em\u003e most forgotten in today’s society is the very one beginning with “remember.” Furthermore, not only is the hearer of the law to keep the Shabbat holy by doing no work, but the beasts of burden are also to rest. Even the “stranger that is within thy gates” is to observe the Shabbat. There is no mention of whether or not this stranger is Jewish (even with an assumption, correct or not, that the audience is solely Jewish). If the Author of the Torah forbids work for animals upon the Shabbat, how much more should all of humanity, creatures of His very image, rest upon this day?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTherefore we can conclude that the seventh-day Shabbat is not only timeless, as is our seven-day week, but universal as well. The Shabbat is for all creation, to include each nation, language, and tribe, to include the very animals that we employ. The Scriptures tell us that Shabbat is “everlasting” and eternal. This timelessness binds us today just as tightly as it bound our ancestors millennia ago as a sign for us to remember that our Creator is the one who sets us apart for Him (\u003cem\u003eShmot\u003c\/em\u003e\/Exodus 31:13).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDay of Delight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerhaps one of the reasons that the seventh-day Shabbat is not more widely accepted is that many grossly misunderstand it. It is not an injunction upon us to inhibit our life and liberties; it is an enhancement and preservation of the life and freedoms that we enjoy. The Shabbat should not be seen as a day of prohibitions, but a day of delight (\u003cem\u003eYeshayahu\u003c\/em\u003e\/Isaiah 58:13).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen we are struggling to get to the end of our week, what a delight indeed to find a day of rest waiting for us—a day to switch off the cell phones and unplug from all the stress and busyness around us! In fact, such a delight is this day that Hebrew essayist Ahad Ha’am taught: “More than the Jewish people have kept the Shabbat, the Shabbat has kept the Jewish people.” Throughout history, the Shabbat has kept the Jew and has preserved the nation. Imagine if all creation was thus “kept” by the Shabbat. We can only imagine the magnitude of such a blessing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Shabbat is not only a day of ceasing work, but also a day of communing with G-d. Simply resting is one thing; being spiritually restored and renewed is quite another. The seventh-day Shabbat is a day of spending time with the Creator, just as humanity did in Eden. G-d Himself was walking with them in the Garden. We no longer can be with G-d in Eden, but, as the sages say, we can still have a taste of this blissful intimacy one day a week as the seventh-day Shabbat is a sample of the Heaven that awaits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eG-d spoke of Israel, “I will also give thee for a light of the nations” (\u003cem\u003eYeshayahu\u003c\/em\u003e\/Isaiah 49:6). It is true that the Jewish nation has been anointed to be “a light to the nations.” What does this mean? This is a weighty honor, to be sure, as this is a divine commission to bring the light of Torah to a dark and dying world. Watching the news will prove to us just how overwhelming this task could seem. The world today is anything but light, and the majority of the Western world is wallowing in the darkness of greed, lust for power, and egoism. Too many are sinking in an insatiable sea of self-seeking. Where do we start if we wish to be a light? We can begin with a simple, beautiful gift that reminds us that we are only a part of something bigger, that we are a beloved creation and not the Creator—the blessing of the Shabbat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Seventh-day Adventist Church also observes the seventh-day Shabbat.  Treasuring the joys of the Shabbat, Seventh-day Adventists seek to spread the light of this beautiful, ages-old commemoration to all, too, in hopes of spreading the peace of Shabbat to all the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReferences taken from the Jewish Publication Society (JPS) Bible, 1917.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42249921396919,"sku":"SKU","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/JewishSabbathRGB.jpg?v=1706714918"},{"product_id":"good-news-for-the-jews","title":"Good News for the Jews","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGood News for the Jewish People\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThousands of years ago, an angel gave the prophet Daniel a vision. The vision was so surprising it made Daniel sick—until the angel came again to explain it! The angel’s good news revealed God’s love and care for the Jewish people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eA Prophecy Postponed\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eDaniel was a young Jewish man in Judea when Nebuchadnezzar’s army took him captive, and he remained faithful to God in Babylon. Even when Jerusalem was destroyed, Daniel remained hopeful. He knew Jeremiah had prophesied that the exile would end in 70 years. But then Daniel received a vision that didn’t make sense. In it, an angel said that the sanctuary would be reconsecrated after 2300 days (Daniel 8:14). In Daniel’s mind, that meant rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. Daniel knew that in prophetic time, one day equals a year (Numbers 14:34, Ezekiel 4:6). The angel confirmed that principle, saying the vision was for the distant future (Daniel 8:26). Something seemed dreadfully wrong. How did 70 years stretch to 2300 years?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eAs Daniel 8 ends, Daniel is sick for many days. He can’t understand this apparent contradiction in the prophecies. Why was the new prophetic timing so long? Daniel 8:27 says “I, Daniel, was worn out. I lay exhausted for several days. Then I got up and went about the king’s business. I was appalled by the vision; it was beyond understanding.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p7\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Good News of the Prophecy\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eAs Daniel 9 begins, Daniel earnestly searches the prophecies for answers. Jeremiah’s prophecies were clear. The Jewish people would return to their land after 70 years (Jeremiah 29:10).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eAs he thought about it, Daniel concluded that Israel’s sins must be so great that God had postponed their return. So he confessed his people’s sins in a passionate prayer for the people of Israel and for Jerusalem (Daniel 9:4-19).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eSuddenly, in the middle of that prayer, an angel came to answer his petitions. Not only did the angel comfort him about Jerusalem, but he also gave Daniel good news for his people. Daniel had prayed for the forgiveness of Israel, and the angel told him how Israel would receive forgiveness through the coming of the Messiah.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eDaniel 9 is good news because it declares the coming of the Messiah. It even gives the exact date of his coming!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eIn 70 weeks, the Almighty would:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e- finish transgression\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e- put an end to sin\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e- atone for wickedness\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e- bring everlasting righteousness\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e- seal up the vision and prophecy\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e- and anoint the Holy of Holies (Daniel 9:24).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eAfter 70 weeks or 490 years, God would send the “\u003ci\u003eMashiach-Nagid\u003c\/i\u003e” (Messiah the Prince, Daniel 9:25). All the generations since Adam and Eve had longed for the Messiah. What wonderful news for Israel!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eMessiah Will Be Cut Off\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThis prophecy is not about what Israel has to do, but what the Messiah will do. It’s about what he will do through his ministry when the Light of God begins to reach the nations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eHow would the Messiah accomplish all this? The Almighty wanted to teach Israel that forgiveness could be obtained only by death—the death of the sinner or of a substitute. The biblical story of the Akedah illustrates this lesson. Isaac, the son of Abraham, had to die, but at the last moment, God substituted a ram that died instead of him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eIn the same way, Israel received forgiveness through the sacrifices in the temple. The animals took the place of the sinners. Those sacrifices were symbolic of the death of the Messiah for the sins of Israel (compare Isaiah 53).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eDaniel 9:26-27 says that “the Anointed One [the \u003ci\u003eMessiah-Nagid\u003c\/i\u003e] will be put to death and will have nothing,” and that he “will put an end to sacrifice and offering.” By his death, the Messiah would take the place of the sinner, put an end to sin, bring in everlasting righteousness, and seal up the vision and the prophecy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe End of the Prophecy\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e(For a visual representation of these next paragraphs, please see the chart on the final page.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eIn prophetic time, the number of days means the number of years. When the angel said “seventy sevens” (Daniel 9:24), he meant 70 weeks. 70 prophetic weeks is 490 prophetic days, which equals 490 literal years. This 490-year period is then divided into three parts: 1) seven weeks or 49 years, 2) sixty-two weeks or 434 years, and 3) one week or seven years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThe Tanach records the decree by King Artaxerxes to rebuild Jerusalem (Ezra 7) in 457 BCE. This date is the starting point for the 490-year journey to the Messiah’s baptism.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThe first period of 49 years (seven weeks) was the direct answer to the prayer of Daniel. It announced the restoration of Jerusalem. “From the time the word goes out to restore and rebuild Jerusalem” (Daniel 9:25) until the restoration would be 49 years (457 BCE-408 BCE, see Ezra 7). And history records that it happened—just as prophesied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eThe second period of 434 years (62 weeks) pointed to the anointing of the Messiah. “From the time the word goes out to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven ‘sevens’ and sixty-two ‘sevens’” (408 BCE-27 CE; Daniel 9:25). Exactly on time, Yeshua was immersed in the \u003ci\u003emikveh\u003c\/i\u003e of the Jordan River in 27 CE.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe last period of seven years (one week) closes the 490 years of the prophecy. It was a time of sealing a covenant (Daniel 9:27). In the middle of that seven years the \u003ci\u003eMashiach-Nagid \u003c\/i\u003ewould be cut off. Exactly as prophesied, Yeshua died at the hands of the Roman soldiers on Pesach 31 CE.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eHowever, Yeshua did not remain dead. He was resurrected according to the prophecy (Isaiah 53:10). During the last half of the prophetic week (31 to 34 CE), he established a covenant with his disciples. This finished the 490 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIn the year 34 CE the Jewish Pharisee Rabbi Shaul did \u003ci\u003eTeshuva\u003c\/i\u003e (repentance) and became a \u003ci\u003eShaliach\u003c\/i\u003e (an apostle). He was sent to give the Light of God to the Gentiles, to fulfill the mission of Israel to be \u003ci\u003eOr LaGoyim\u003c\/i\u003e, a “light to the nations.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhat first seemed like terrible news to Daniel—so bad it made him sick for days—was now wonderful news for Israel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTo learn more about the wonderful prophecies given to Israel, go to the back panel of this pamphlet for our contact information.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e****** GRAPHIC ON TRACT*****\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eScriptures taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCover design: ©www.typofire.com\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42249923068087,"sku":"GNJ","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Good-News-for-Jews-RGB.jpg?v=1706715303"},{"product_id":"will-christian-disappear-soon","title":"Will Christian Disappear Soon?","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/glowcentral.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Will-Christians-Disappear-Soon-RGB-196x300.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bible mentions over 2,500 times that Jesus Christ will return to earth again, yet there is considerable confusion within Christianity as to the exact manner of His return. The most commonly held belief, the Secret Rapture, teaches that Jesus will secretly, silently, and invisibly take Christians to heaven. As Christians instantly disappear, everyone else is left behind to endure a nightmarish seven-year period with the Antichrist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile this view may be very popular, five Bible facts disprove the Secret Rapture teaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFive Facts\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFact 1. Jesus’ coming is visible worldwide.\u003c\/strong\u003e “\u003cem\u003eEvery eye will see him\u003c\/em\u003e” (Revelation 1:7). Jesus said, “\u003cem\u003eAll the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man\u003c\/em\u003e coming on the clouds of heaven” (Matthew 24:30). When Jesus returns, it will be the single most viewed event of all time!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFact 2. Jesus’ return will be loud.\u003c\/strong\u003e “And He will send His angels with a \u003cem\u003egreat sound of a trumpet\u003c\/em\u003e, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds” (Matthew 24:31). “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven \u003cem\u003ewith a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God\u003c\/em\u003e” (1 Thessalonians 4:16). There is nothing quiet or secret about this!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFact 3. The Second Coming is glorious.\u003c\/strong\u003e “When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and \u003cem\u003eall the holy angels\u003c\/em\u003e with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory” (Matthew 25:31). The glory of God and of all the angels lights up the sky from horizon to horizon. “For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be” (Matthew 24:27). Worldwide, the sky is filled with the white-hot, bright light of heavenly beings. No wonder Revelation 1:7 says that “every eye will see Him.” Jesus’ return is global and it is glorious!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFact 4. Earth is made uninhabitable by Jesus’ return.\u003c\/strong\u003e As Jesus and angels enter earth’s atmosphere, it triggers a global earthquake that decimates cities and swallows islands and mountains. “There was a great earthquake, such a mighty and great earthquake as had not occurred since men were on the earth. . . . The cities of the nations fell. . . . Then every island fled away, and the mountains were not found” (Revelation 16:18-20). Massive hailstones pummel people and property into oblivion. “From the sky huge hailstones, each weighing about a hundred pounds, fell on people” (Revelation 16:21, NIV). The brightness of Jesus’ return ignites the elements of earth in a raging inferno. “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up” (2 Peter 3:10). No one left on earth can survive this global catastrophe!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFact 5. Christ’s return depopulates the planet.\u003c\/strong\u003e When Jesus comes, He raises the sleeping saints from their graves and takes them to heaven along with all of the living believers. “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven. . . . And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs God’s people ascend to heaven, the lost are destroyed and no one remains alive on earth. “When the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God. . . . These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints” (2 Thessalonians 1:7-10).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese five Scripture facts conclusively counter the Secret Rapture. To attempt to prove this theory, a few Bible texts are taken out of context. Let’s look at them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThree Theories\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTheory 1:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Bible phrase “one will be taken and the other left” (Matthew 24:40) is twisted to mean that the saved are taken to heaven at Jesus’ coming while the lost are left behind \u003cem\u003ealive\u003c\/em\u003e to be deceived by the Antichrist. However, if we read the context, Jesus says that His return will be “as it was in the days of Noah” (verse 37, NIV). What happened in Noah’s day to the lost? “The flood came and took them all away” (verse 39).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDescribing the same scene, Luke wrote, “Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and \u003cem\u003edestroyed them all\u003c\/em\u003e” (Luke 17:27). Jesus’ point is clear—those who are left behind are destroyed. When the disciples ask where the lost will be left, Jesus declares, “Where there is a dead body, there the vultures will gather” (verse 37, NIV). Clearly, those who don’t go to heaven are “destroyed” by Jesus’ return and their dead bodies are left to attract vultures. The context clearly disproves the Secret Rapture. Don’t be tricked into thinking that there will be a second chance after true believers disappear!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTheory 2\u003c\/strong\u003e teaches that after Jesus raptures the saints to heaven, the Antichrist will deceive everyone who is left behind during seven years of tribulation. The Bible readily discounts this theory when Paul writes that the Antichrist appears \u003cem\u003ebefore\u003c\/em\u003e the Second Coming and is actually destroyed at Jesus’ return. “Concerning \u003cem\u003ethe coming of our Lord Jesus Christ\u003c\/em\u003e and our gathering together to Him. . . .\u003csup\u003e \u003c\/sup\u003eLet no one deceive you by any means; for that Day [\u003cem\u003ei.e. Jesus’ coming\u003c\/em\u003e] will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin [\u003cem\u003ei.e. the Antichrist]\u003c\/em\u003e is revealed. . . . Whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming” (2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, 8).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTheory 3\u003c\/strong\u003e states that the Rapture happens secretly, like a “thief in the night.” Once again, the Bible clearly says that there is nothing secret about Jesus’ return as a thief. “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a \u003cem\u003egreat noise\u003c\/em\u003e, and the \u003cem\u003eelements will melt \u003c\/em\u003ewith fervent heat; both the \u003cem\u003eearth and the works that are in it will be burned up\u003c\/em\u003e” (2 Peter 3:10). “The day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. For when they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then \u003cem\u003esudden destruction comes upon them\u003c\/em\u003e” (1 Thessalonians 5:2-3). Jesus’ coming as a thief is not a secret; it is a surprise! Jesus warns, “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming” (see Matthew 24:42-44).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSecond Chance?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe devil would love nothing more than to deceive those who are living in the time of the end (see Matthew 24:3-4, 24). One of his tricks is to seduce people into thinking they will have a second chance to be saved during the “tribulation” if they miss the Secret Rapture. As a result, they put off for later their commitment to Christ. But as we have seen, when Jesus returns, \u003cem\u003elater will never arrive.\u003c\/em\u003e Jesus is seeking our hearts right now so He can rescue us from a sin-doomed world when He returns. So, don’t be fooled. Surrender your life to Him now and\u003cem\u003e be ready \u003c\/em\u003e(see Matthew 24:44).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo learn more, contact us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003eUnless otherwise indicated, Scripture is taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42250504470711,"sku":"WCDS","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/WillChristiansDisappearSoonRGB.jpg?v=1706720167"},{"product_id":"a-better-future","title":"A Better Future","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eA Better Future\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe little planet we call home is an incredibly special place in the universe. Astronomers have yet to find life anywhere else; but life on our planet is under threat. In the past 200 years, earth’s population has grown from 1 billion to 7 billion and the UN predicts that we will reach 9.7 billion by 2050. An increased population brings increased problems. Social crises, crime, and international conflicts are becoming more frequent and violent. Natural resources are being consumed rapidly. Pollution is endangering wildlife. Scientists wonder whether this earth will be able to sustain 10 billion people. Will we ever be able to overcome all these problems?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCan Religion Help?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach religion offers its own solutions. Some teach that this world will steadily improve, but we clearly see the opposite. Others offer a type of escape plan. They see this world forever doomed, and teach that God will rescue the good people when they die and take them to heaven. In the East, nirvana is believed to be the ultimate solution. It ends the cycle of life, death and rebirth, but nirvana itself is not described.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Christian Solution\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Christian holy writings, called the Bible, teach that this world is in a state of trouble and suffering because we have rebelled from our Creator (Genesis 6:5). But the Creator has promised to recreate this earth in its original perfection (Revelation 21:1). Those who have allowed God to heal their selfish motives, and have left their immorality behind, will be welcomed into the new earth.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bible says that God the Creator will “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” (Revelation 21:4). Suffering will be gone forever!\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“The eyes of the blind shall be opened, …the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped… the lame shall leap… and the tongue of the dumb sing” (Isaiah 35:5-6). The physical imperfections we live with now will be gone! We will “run and not be weary, …walk and not faint” (Isaiah 41:31). \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe natural world will also be restored. “The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, the lion shall eat straw like the ox …” (Isaiah 65:25). Can you imagine – vegetarian lions!  \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow will this happen? The Bible says that God will come as a surprise (Matthew 24:36-42), but none will miss it because He “…is coming with clouds, and every eye shall see Him” (Revelation 1:7). There will be lightning and thunder, and the earth will shake (Matthew 24:27; Revelation 16: 17-21). \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA loud trumpet blast will be heard. Those who have died believing the Creator’s promise will be restored to life. Together with the living believers, they “will be caught up together… in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air” (1 Thessalonians 4:17). What a happy day – children and parents, husbands and wives, brothers and sisters are all reunited!\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile God wants everyone to be in the new earth, ultimately the wicked will be destroyed (2 Peter 3:9-11). Afterward, God will recreate the world and welcome us into our new home free of pollution, suffering and death.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImagine the Re-created World! \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImagine walking on a carpet of cool grass with your loved ones at your side. You breathe in the pure fragrant air as you settle down for a picnic beside a brook. From across the meadow, you see a majestic tiger with a puppy scampering playfully along behind it. You feel no fear and call them to you. The puppy happily licks you with his tongue while the tiger purrs contentedly. Little giggles fill the air as the animals lick sweet mango juice from the hands of your children. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce a week, you join the great migration to the capital city where the Creator is enthroned (Isaiah 66:22-23). As you stroll upon the streets of gold, you are filled with joy and love for your Creator. You join your family and friends in singing your praise and love to God.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTime will be marked by the passing of days and weeks, but no one will grow old, fall ill, or die. Joy and love will be complete!\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eToo Good to be True?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you think so, you wouldn’t be the first! But even scientists believe there is more than what can be explained with science. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe famous astronomer, Dr. Robert Jastrow, wrote a book titled, God and the Astronomers. He is not a Christian, yet he finds strong evidence in the universe for a Creator God. He states, “Astronomers now find they are… in a corner because they have proven, by their own methods, that the world began abruptly in an act of creation to which you can trace the seeds of every star, every planet, every living thing in this cosmos and on the earth. They have found that all this happened as a product of forces they cannot hope to discover. That there are what I or anyone would call supernatural forces at work is now, I think, a scientifically proven fact.”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpeaking of the conflict between the findings of science and his belief that a Creator does not exist, Dr. Jastrow states, “I am in a completely hopeless bind…. I try to fit it into my concept of the world, the conclusion that there is a larger force of some kind which you can call God or whatever, but I can’t accept that…. I’ve been a scientist all my life…. I feel I am missing something.” Dr. Jastrow died in 2008, still unable to accept the answers that the Bible offers despite what science proved to him to be true.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat About You?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are reading this tract, you are still alive and have a choice to make. Will you explore the possibility that there is a Creator who has a solution to the problems of this world and our lives? If so, ask God to help you to know the truth. Just pray: \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e“Creator God, I want to believe that \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eYou\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e can recreate this world but it seems too good to be true. Help me know if \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eYou\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e are real and if You have a plan for me.”\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you would like to learn more, contact us. We are ready to help!\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":288,\"335559740\":288}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42251350802615,"sku":"ABF","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/A-Better-Future-Cover-rgb-web.jpg?v=1706738922"},{"product_id":"highly-favored","title":"Highly Favored","description":"\u003ch5\u003eHighly Favored\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you believe in angels? In miracles? One of the most miraculous events in history occurred nearly two thousand years ago when a shiny angel named Gabriel appeared to a teenage girl named Mary with a message from God’s throne:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” (Luke 1:26-28).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese words are written in the Holy Bible, which is Planet Earth’s all-time bestselling book. According to the Sacred Scriptures, it was God Himself who sent Gabriel to Mary. Indeed, Mary was “highly favored” and “blessed” among women because an unfathomable event was about to occur within her young body. The drama continues:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut when she [Mary] saw him [Gabriel], she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS” (Luke 1:29-31).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTherefore, Mary was “highly favored” because she had been divinely chosen to become the receptacle for the greatest miracle of all time. She was about to conceive inside of her womb a Child who would be unique from all other normal humans. No other mother could claim such an inestimable honor. Her Son’s name would be “JESUS.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGabriel continued: “He [Jesus] will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end” (Luke 1:32-33). Mary’s Baby would be “the Son of the Highest”—far above every president, prince, princess, ruler, or king. He would finally sit upon “the throne” as Supreme Ruler over a “kingdom” that would have “no end.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow Can This Be?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMary then said to Gabriel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” (Luke 1:34).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere Mary highlighted one apparently insurmountable problem. At that moment, she was engaged to a man named Joseph, yet they hadn’t consummated their union. Their honeymoon was still future, and Mary was still a virgin. \u003cem\u003eHow can I have a baby without being impregnated by a man?\u003c\/em\u003e she wondered. Such a thing had never happened—ever!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGabriel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God…. For with God nothing will be impossible” (Luke 1:35-37). Gabriel’s answer to Mary’s dilemma reveals an unfathomable mystery. Even before her wedding day, “The Holy Spirit” would rest upon her, and “the power of the Highest” would move within her. A never-before-conception would occur apart from any earthly father. In this unique instance, the Dad would be the Almighty Himself, and Mary’s Baby would be “the Son of God.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn complete submission Mary replied, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Mary’s last words to the holy messenger before he vanished reveal that she considered herself to be a humble “maidservant of the Lord.” She had complete confidence in what was “told her from the Lord” (Luke 1:45).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCalled Blessed\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA short time later, Mary told her cousin Elizabeth: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in \u003cem\u003eGod my Savior.\u003c\/em\u003e For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; for behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed” (Luke 1:47-48). Mary’s words are deeply significant. First, “all generations” would call her “blessed.” Unlike any other mother since the dawn of time, Mary had the privilege of giving birth to God’s Son. Second, her humility is again revealed in that she called herself a “lowly … maidservant.” Third, she realized that God Himself was her “Savior.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMary’s use of the word “Savior” reveals that she knew she needed to be saved from sin, just like all of us sinful mortals. Her Savior was her Son. “You shall call His name JESUS,” another angel also told Joseph, “for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Both Mary and Joseph were “His people,” needing to be saved from sin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Jesus began His public ministry, in one instance “His mother [Mary] said to the servants [at a wedding], ‘Whatever He says to you, \u003cem\u003edo it’”\u003c\/em\u003e (John 2:5). This shows that Mary not only honored her Son, but also that implicit obedience to His words was her motto. Whatever \u003cem\u003eJesus says,\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cem\u003ewe should do.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is important to stress that while Mary was truly blessed to become the earthly conduit for our Savior Jesus Christ, the overriding focus of God’s Book is to exalt her Son, \u003cem\u003enot\u003c\/em\u003e His humble mother. Saint Paul later made that crystal clear when he wrote that God “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all” (1 Timothy 2:4-6).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne doesn’t need to be a skilled mathematician to calculate the meaning of the word “one.” There is only “one God,” not myriads of gods, and there is only “one Mediator between God and men,” and it isn’t a woman. Not even Mary. No. It is\u003cem\u003e the Man Christ Jesus\u003c\/em\u003e who \u003cem\u003ealone\u003c\/em\u003e sacrificed His life on a cruel cross to pay the price for human sin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHonoring Her Son\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsidering these clear Bible verses, have you ever wondered what Mary herself would think about her exaltation to nearly divine status in the church? I imagine that neither Saint Peter nor Saint Paul would approve—because, significantly, in all their inspired New Testament letters, they never mentioned Mary even\u003cem\u003e one time. \u003c\/em\u003eWhy not? Not because Mary wasn’t blessed, but because she herself is not our Savior \u003cem\u003eor mediator.\u003c\/em\u003e This honor belongs exclusively to Mary’s Son. Jesus Himself is the star of the show, and His glory must not be eclipsed by any man or woman who was conceived in the usual way. Seated on His exalted throne above, the Lord Jesus Christ Himself tenderly appeals to each of us, saying, \u003cem\u003eCome to Me,\u003c\/em\u003e all you who labor and are heavy laden, and \u003cem\u003eI will give you rest \u003c\/em\u003e(Matthew 11:28, italics added).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus deeply loves us and warmly invites us to come \u003cem\u003edirectly\u003c\/em\u003e to Him for rest, forgiveness, peace, and “everlasting life” (John 3:16). Again, Jesus Himself says, “Come \u003cem\u003eto\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cem\u003eMe.”\u003c\/em\u003e Let’s remember the words of the blessed virgin who said,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhatever He [Jesus] says to you, \u003cem\u003edo it \u003c\/em\u003e(John 2:5).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42251487150263,"sku":"HF","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/HighlyFavoredCover.jpg?v=1706741520"},{"product_id":"myths-about-hell","title":"Myths about hell","description":"\u003cp\u003eMyths About Hell\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor most people, \u003ci\u003ehell\u003c\/i\u003e is simply one of a few four-letter words heard daily in the rage of rush hour traffic or the heated scenes of a Hollywood movie. For others, the word hell brings back vivid childhood imaginations of an eternal roasting pit for humans as described by a church pastor or fiery televangelist. Most of us, it seems, would be quite content if the concept of hell just didn’t exist. In an attempt to rid their minds of such a fearful idea, some make the choice to disbelieve in the idea of hell altogether. This often leads to the next step—choosing to disbelieve in a God who would create such a place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat do we do with this terrifying idea of hell? Do we throw it—and God—out altogether? Do we try to ignore it and its implications about God? Do we hope desperately that our church school teachers were somehow mistaken? In this Bible tract, we will choose another option: we will simply study what the Bible really has to say about hell. We’ll find that the truth will set us free from the various myths about hell.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhen and Where?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterestingly, the Bible provides explicit information concerning when hell will begin and where it will be located. Misconceptions are plentiful on these two points. In Matthew 13:49 Jesus says clearly, “So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, and shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.”1 According to this text and many others like it,2 the flames of hell will not exist until the end of the world. That’s right! Your loved ones are not being burned alive as you read this tract.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe apostle Peter gives us clear information about the location of hell. Speaking of the end of the world he says, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up” (2 Peter 3:10). The prophet Zephaniah also speaks of “the whole land” “devoured by the fire of His jealousy” (Zephaniah 1:18). In these passages we see that hell is not a giant, flame-filled chasm in the center of the earth. Instead, it will be located right here on earth at the end of the world—a fire devouring “the whole land.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerhaps the most important fact to understand about hell can be found in Scripture’s most famous text, John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” Here Jesus clearly states that believers, not the wicked, live eternally. What? The wicked don’t live eternally in the flames? Correct!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eIs the Devil in Charge of Hell?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wicked will burn only until nothing remains to be consumed. God explains this point in the book of Malachi: “‘For behold, the day is coming, burning like an oven, and all the proud, yes, all who do wickedly will be stubble. And the day which is coming shall burn them up,’ says the Lord.” In order to confirm that He was speaking literally about the utter destruction of the wicked, He continues, “You shall trample the wicked, for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day that I do this” (Malachi 4:1, 3). In addition to the wicked, hellfire also will destroy completely Satan and his angels (see Matthew 25:41 and Revelation 20:10). Contrary to popular belief, God plans to destroy the forces of darkness, not place them in charge of an eternal fire pit in the center of the earth!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome might point out other texts like Revelation 14:11 and 20:10 which say that the wicked burn eternally. In Scripture the term \u003ci\u003eforever\u003c\/i\u003e indicates a time of indefinite duration in which the beginning and ending of the period depend on the nature of the person or circumstance to which it is applied. The boy Samuel, serving in the temple, was to remain there “forever” (1 Samuel 1:22). The bars of the earth closed over Jonah “forever” (Jonah 2:6) when he was thrown into the sea. Clearly, neither of these events lasted what we would term \u003ci\u003eforever\u003c\/i\u003e. In our day, a man and woman commit to their marriage vow “forever.” For the couple, the term \u003ci\u003eforever\u003c\/i\u003e simply means \u003ci\u003eas long as they live\u003c\/i\u003e. Additionally, every time the book of Revelation mentions the wicked burning forever, symbolic terms (such as a “beast” with seven heads) are \u003ci\u003ealways\u003c\/i\u003e used in the same verse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow do we discover the length of hellfire’s \u003ci\u003eforever\u003c\/i\u003e? As we have seen, other passages of Scripture on the same topic explain that \u003ci\u003eforever\u003c\/i\u003e means \u003ci\u003euntil th\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003ee wicked are utterly consumed\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn light of this simple Bible study, one might ask how these myths about hell could exist. This false teaching has permeated Christianity not just because it is a good scare tactic for church attendance, but because our adversary the devil loves to teach lies about God. Revelation 12:9 describes Satan as one who “deceives the whole world.” He deceives them about what? About God and His character. There are true and false teachings about God. Truth is not a choice, as many would like to believe. Truth is a reality waiting to be discovered in the pages of Scripture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLiving \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eIn\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e God\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e’s Presence\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:29) to sin and sinners. But rather than the wicked, it is the saved person “who walks righteously and speaks uprightly,” who alone can “dwell with the devouring fire” and “everlasting burnings” (Isaiah 33:14-15). According to Matthew 25:31-46, all humanity will one day encounter God, in whose presence “the hills melt, and the earth is burned” (Nahum 1:5).1 Only those who have repented of their sins and sought after God will be protected in His fiery presence where they will live for all eternity. The wicked, on the other hand, will cease to exist and “be as though they had never been” (Obadiah 1:16) after they are “punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power” (2 Thessalonians 1:9).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFriends, “God is love” (1 John 4:8), a love symbolized by fire. Solomon said that God’s love has “a most vehement flame” (Song of Solomon 8:6). As fire hardens clay but melts ice, so His fiery love will comfort the saved but consume the wicked. Today you have the choice to harden your heart toward God, or allow His flames of truth and love to melt it. Your choice determines your eternal destiny. Seek Him today, and His love will warm your heart through all eternity!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1King James Version.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2See, for example, Matthew 25:31-41; 2 Peter 3:3-7, 12.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnless otherwise noted, Scripture is taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover image: ©www.photodune.net.\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43948679594167,"sku":"MAH","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Myths-About-Hell-Cover-v2-c2-web-196x300.jpg?v=1732292518"},{"product_id":"myths-about-hell-copy","title":"Today's 10 Commandments","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eToday’s \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eTen \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommandments\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first speeding ticket ever issued was given to a man named Walter Arnold of East Peckham, Kent in the U.K. on Jan. 28, 1896. Authorities ticketed Arnold for driving 8 mph in a 2 mph zone. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA father in Rotterdam, Netherlands reportedly received the most expensive speeding punishment ever, including the impoundment of his $2.4-million sports car. Why? Police caught his son driving 100 mph in a 50 mph zone!\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave you ever broken the speed limit? Perhaps for most people the better question would be, “Have you ever kept the speed limit?” Once, I was driving 60 mph in a 40 mph zone. A patrol car drove up behind me with its lights flashing. To my surprise, the officer simply gave me a warning. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI was delighted!—but did the officer do the right thing?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSetting the Stage\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs an officer of the law, this policeman’s obligation was to punish transgressors of the law, not to forgive them. I broke the law and he was obliged to enforce it. How then could the officer have forgiven me and still upheld the requirements of the law? He could have paid for the ticket himself, thereby paying the law its just due while letting me go free. This illustration perfectly presents the spiritual situation in which each of us stands.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLet’s reflect for a few moments, not on the speed limit, but on the greatest law that has ever been written, the law of Almighty God. God not only spoke this law with His own lips, but He also wrote it with His own finger (Exodus 31:18). The Bible describes this law as “holy and just and good” (Romans 7:12). This law contains ten simple principles (called the Ten Commandments) written on two tables of stone, showing their permanence (Matthew 5:17-18). The first table contains four principles that explain what it means to love God; the second table contains six principles that describe what it means to love our fellow human beings.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the very beginning, all the inhabitants of our planet have disobeyed this law (Romans 3:10, 23). This is a serious matter because the Bible defines disobedience to this law as sin, and the payment for sin is death (1 John 3:4; Romans 6:23). \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo give us a way of escape from the penalty of the law, Jesus, who created us all (Colossians 1:16), offered to come to this world to live the life that the law requires of us. He also offered to take the place of every human being on planet earth by taking that death penalty upon Himself.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePoints to Consider\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus’ death shows that this same law cannot be changed or discarded. Think about it. Why did Jesus need to die? He died to save sinners from the death penalty of the law. If God wanted to save sinners some other way, He could have done away with that law which required the death penalty. But in doing so, He would have set aside the foundation of truth, the detector of right and wrong. He would have accepted sin, and contradicted His own character of righteousness. When God had to choose between letting the law be destroyed or letting sinners be destroyed, \u003ci\u003eHe was unwilling to do either.\u003c\/i\u003e Instead He chose a third option: sending His Son to die on the cross. By so doing, He indicated the permanence of the law as well as His love for sinners.  \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn light of this truth, why do so many Christians say that the law is no longer necessary? There are several reasons. First, many Christians have been told that the law was “nailed to the cross” rather than established at the cross. From the previous point alone, we can see that when Paul mentioned in Colossians 2:14 that something was “nailed to the cross” and done away with, he was not referring to the Ten Commandments. He was rather referring to certain ceremonial requirements that pointed forward to Jesus and passed away when He died on the cross.\u003cspan data-fontsize=\"12\"\u003e1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSecond, some Christians take texts regarding the law from the writings of the apostle Paul and misuse them. They say: “Didn’t Paul write that where sin abounds grace is even more abundant (Romans 5:20)? Didn’t the great apostle affirm that we are not under law but under grace (Romans 6:14), and that we are justified by faith without works of law (Romans 3:28)?” Indeed, he did! But notice that in each one of these statements Paul immediately corrected any possible misunderstanding of his words. He clearly denied that grace gives us a license to sin: “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not!” (Romans 6:1-2). “What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? Certainly not!” (Romans 6:15). “Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not!” (Romans 3:31).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThird, there is a misconception that in the Old Testament believers were saved because they kept the law while New Testament believers are saved by grace. Acts 4:12 tells us that there is no salvation outside of Jesus. Old Testament believers were saved in the same way as New Testament believers—by grace through faith in Jesus Christ (Hebrews 4:2).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFourth, some Christians claim that because Jesus kept the law and paid its penalty, we don’t have to obey it. Does this really make sense? Did Jesus die so that we could disobey? Would the officer’s payment of my ticket give me the right, from that point forward, to drive 60 mph in a 40 mph speed zone? Of course not! If anything, the officer’s goodness in paying for my ticket would be a powerful incentive for me to obey the law. “This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments” (1 John 5:3).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinally, many claim that we no longer need to obey the Ten Commandments because we are now under a different law—the law of love. However, this misconception is based on a faulty understanding of love. The very lips of Jesus uttered the words, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15, NASB). The great apostle Paul affirmed, “love is the fulfillment of the law” (Romans 13:10). There is no conflict between love and the law, because God is the source of both!\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eConclusion\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDear reader, God Himself has opened a door of opportunity for you. Will you take it? Not all will be saved. Obedience to God still matters! Will you prove yourself loyal to Heaven? The Law of God expressed in the Ten Commandments still stands today. The Bible says, “Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). “Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life” (Revelation 22:14). Those “who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus” (Revelation 14:12) will be His people in the last days. Hear God as today He pleads with you and others, saying, “Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear Me and always keep all My commandments, that it might be well with them and with their children forever!” (Deuteronomy 5:29).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-fontsize=\"10\"\u003e1\u003c\/span\u003eHebrews 10:1-4; see also additional references on glowonline.org.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture marked NASB taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll other Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOT FOR THE TRACT\u003c\/b\u003e, BUT FOR THE GLOWONLINE.ORG WEBSITE VERSION OF THE TRACT:\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee also:\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.adventist.org\/spirituality\/sabbath\/article\/go\/0\/the-sabbath-in-colossians-2\/\"\u003ehttp:\/\/www.adventist.org\/spirituality\/sabbath\/article\/go\/0\/the-sabbath-in-colossians-2\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.sabbathtruth.com\/faq\/frequently-asked-questions\/id\/929\/please-explain-colossians-214\"\u003ehttp:\/\/www.sabbathtruth.com\/faq\/frequently-asked-questions\/id\/929\/please-explain-colossians-214\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43948705710263,"sku":"T10C","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Law-Cover-c1-web.jpg?v=1732293214"},{"product_id":"today-s-10-commandments-copy","title":"What the World Needs Now","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat the World Needs Now\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“What the world needs now,” reveal the lyrics of a once-popular song, “is love, sweet love.” Unfortunately, a similar song moans that most of us are “looking for love in all the wrong places.” Can you relate? Almost everyone—including you and me—has a deep inner need to experience real love; but unfortunately, actually finding something so priceless seems like an illusive dream. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll too often, it remains unreachable. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Holy Bible informs us that “God is love” (1 John 4:8). Not only that, but it also tells us that Earth’s Maker has a special message of love uniquely designed for these “last days” (2 Timothy 3:1). Believe it or not, His end-time message combines love and law (see Revelation 14:12-14) for the simple reason that true love is moral. In other words, love involves more than fluffy feelings without substance. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery nation, government, state, city, and town has laws. Without laws, chaos reigns. But there is one law that towers above all other legal codes: the Ten Commandments. What makes the Big Ten different from other laws is that they were originally written, not with a pen, pencil, keyboard, or even hi-tech voice recognition software, but “with the finger of God” (Exodus 31:18). Read Exodus 20:1–17 for the full version. In a nutshell, here are the Ten Commandments in plain language: \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePut God first.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t worship idols.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRespect God’s name.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep the seventh day (Saturday) holy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHonor your father and mother.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t murder.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t commit adultery.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t steal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t lie.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDon’t covet.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTry to imagine what society would be like if everyone actually kept these commandments. Thieves wouldn’t exist. There would be no serial killers or even bullies. Jails, locks on doors, or even a police force would not be needed. How about The Department of Homeland Security? No, for there would be no terrorists, hijacked planes, or deadly bombs. Instead, all human beings would treat each other with decency, kindness, and respect. In such an environment, families would flourish, children would grow up safe, and happiness would thrill every heart. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCome down from the clouds, you may be thinking; this could never happen. Really? Guess what? I know this may seem hard to fathom, but the Good Book predicts that someday it will. “Behold, I make all things new” (Revelation 21:5), promises God Almighty. Not only that, but you can live forever in that Paradise, if you make the right choice. Let me explain. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mystery is hidden within an ancient prophecy about Jesus Christ. “Now this is His name by which He will be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (Jeremiah 23:6). The word “righteousness,” or “right doing,” simply means to keep the Ten Commandments, “the law of righteousness” (see Romans 9:31) without a flaw. Obviously, none of us has ever been there or done that. Instead, “all have sinned” (Romans 3:23). But the good news is that nearly two thousand years ago—in a supreme act of love—Jesus kept the Ten Commandments (see John 15:10) for us, on our behalf. As a result, He is now “THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow here’s some bad news we can’t avoid. “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). In other words, the divine penalty for breaking the Ten Commandments is eternal destruction. Justice requires it. There’s no escaping it. On the other hand, here’s more good news: At the end of His earthly life, “Christ died for our sins” (1 Corinthians 15:3) on a cruel cross in our behalf too, which means He can now forgive us, remove our guilt, and wash us clean! \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you enjoy receiving gifts? My children, ages 5 and 8, surely do. What kid doesn’t? Now don’t miss this. God Almighty has a free “gift of righteousness” (see Romans 5:17) for you that can give you “eternal life” (see Romans 6:23). If you are willing to turn from sin and to believe in Jesus as your Savior, He will apply Christ’s perfect obedience to the Ten Commandments in place of your sins in His heavenly record books (see Revelation 20:12). “Innocent!” “Not Guilty!” “Forgiven!” will be spoken about you by the King of the universe, no matter what crimes or sins you have committed. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eUniversal Search\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis brings us back to the universal search for genuine love. Here’s a story to illustrate. A reckless teenager once had a terrible argument with his dad. As he stormed out of the house, his last words were, “I’m leaving. You will never see me again!” The boy thought he could make it on his own, but after three difficult years remorseful thoughts turned toward home. \u003ci\u003eWill my father take me back?\u003c\/i\u003e he wondered fearfully. Two days later, the boy finally gathered the courage to phone his mother. “Mom, please talk to dad. Tell him I will be passing by the foot of our hill on a train next Monday afternoon. Ask him to hang something white on the porch if he wants me back. If I see anything white, I’ll come home.” Then he hung up.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn that Monday morning, a worried teenager boarded the train and happened to sit next to a minister. “Why are you so nervous?” The pastor inquired. The boy then told him the whole story. “Mister,” he said, “when we roll around the curve ahead, will you look out the window at the house on the top of the hill? That’s my house. If you see anything white, tell me. I’m too scared to look!”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the train rounded the last bend and the minister looked through the glass, the sight caused him to forget his ministerial dignity. Jumping to his feet, the pastor shouted, “Look son, look!” Opening his eyes, the boy saw the little house on the hill completely covered with every white sheet, white blanket, white towel, white bedspread, white tablecloth, white napkin, and white handkerchief that his parents owned. Oh, how they loved him and wanted him to come home. The last thing the minister saw of the boy was the back of his legs running quickly up the hill, across the porch, through the white sheets, and into the waiting arms of his lonely parents.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDear reader, Jesus loves you and wants you to come home, too. So repent of your sins, and trust Him as your Savior. If you do, He will place upon you His own spotless “robe of righteousness” (see Isaiah 61:10), His “white garments” (see Revelation 3:18) of full forgiveness, no matter how wicked your past. He promises He will (see 1 John 1:9). You can trust Him for this. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe earlier song quoted that says, “I was looking for love in all the wrong places,” then adds, “You came a-knocking at my heart’s door. You’re everything I’ve been looking for.” These words can truly apply only to Jesus Christ, your Savior. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe is God’s gift of love to you. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough the gift of His righteousness—which alone can cover your sins of breaking the Ten Commandments—you can have eternal life in God’s bright tomorrow, where only love rules (see Revelation 21:4-5). \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe big question is: Will you repent, and accept that gift, or not?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover image: ©www.unsplash.com\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43948755353783,"sku":"WWN","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/World-Needs-Now-v2-c1-web.jpg?v=1732293760"},{"product_id":"what-the-world-needs-now-copy","title":"Why I go to Church on Saturday","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhy I go to Church on Saturday\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo many, my Saturday church attendance appears to be out of step with the Sunday Christian tradition. They wonder how I can be so confused as to go on the “wrong day.” So, exactly why do I, and millions like me, choose Saturday over Sunday? Consider these three reasons that may surprise you.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eReason One—\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eGod’s Word\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI go to church on Saturday because it is biblical and Sunday church attendance is not. While God welcomes worship every day of the week, He set aside the seventh day as a special day of rest. This day is called the Sabbath and corresponds with Saturday. It was given to humankind at creation, about 2,000 years before the Jewish people existed (Genesis 2:1-3). Jesus said the “Sabbath was made for man”—not just for Jews (Mark 2:27).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt creation, God performed three deliberate acts to make the seventh day uniquely different from the other six—He rested, blessed, and sanctified the Sabbath (Genesis 2:2, 3). This is extremely significant.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst, we need rest from labor and time to reflect. God wired us this way. This is why He drew us aside that very first seventh day of creation for special time with Him. Second, God packed a spiritual blessing into the seventh day that He didn’t put into the other six. Lastly, God drew a boundary around this 24-hour period and designated it as a day to be wholly dedicated to pursuing a relationship with Him.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf we examine every verse in the Bible on the Sabbath we discover some amazing things. All the Old Testament people of God enjoyed its blessing—and we must remember that until Abraham no one was Jewish (Genesis 11:26). Jesus honored the Sabbath by keeping it every week (Luke 4:16). The disciples kept it (Acts 18:4, 11; 16:13). It will be kept in heaven and the new earth (Isaiah 66:22-23). The Bible presents an unbroken cycle of Sabbath observance from man’s creation to the earth made new.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo why do most Christian churches worship on Sunday? The answer—tradition. You see, the Bible never records God changing the Sabbath from the seventh day to the first. The only change of God’s law mentioned in Scripture is attempted by a clever inside attack on the church (See Daniel 7:25).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis change came in long after the disciples died. By the third and fourth centuries, history records some Christians kept the pagan worship day (Sunday) in Rome and other places where the church was compromising to escape persecution. As the church at Rome grew in political power and developed into the Roman Catholic Church, it officially sanctioned Sunday keeping instead of the Sabbath. Today, it points to this fact of history as proof that its authority and tradition is superior to the plain teaching of Scripture.*\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eReason Two—\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eLove\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSabbath keeping is not legalism. “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). The fourth commandment has never been changed by God—only by man. Since the Sabbath is the Bible day for weekly worship, and since Jesus kept the Sabbath Himself, I observe the Sabbath out of love for Him. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are many reasons why I love and obey Jesus. Two primary ones are that He is my Creator and Redeemer (John 1:1-3; Titus 2:14). Jesus created the earth in six days and rested on the seventh. The Sabbath is God’s official memorial or “sign” between Him and His people that He is our Creator (Exodus 31:17). And just prior to Jesus’ return, a message from God calls everyone to “worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water” (Revelation 14:6-7). Every time I “remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy,” I honor my Creator as the one who holds my life in His hand (Exodus 20:8-11).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot only did Jesus create humans, He also redeems us from sin. The Sabbath is a special sign of this salvation—“a sign between them and Me, that they might know that I am the Lord who sanctifies them” (Ezekiel 20:12). Refraining once a week from secular employment to support ourselves reminds us that we can’t work to earn our eternal salvation—it is a gift of God, and we are wholly dependent upon Him (Hebrews 4:4-10). If I can’t trust God to care for my earthly livelihood one day a week, how can I truly say that I trust Him for my eternal life?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery Sabbath reminds me of the love Jesus has given us through creation and redemption. Just as anniversaries are memorials designed to refresh our love for those closest to us, so the seventh day Sabbath reminds us of God’s love and our utter dependence on Him for life in this world and the next.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eReason Three—\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe third reason I keep the Sabbath is because I’ve responded to Jesus’ invitation to try it and see if His Word is true. God often invites us to test Him. One such occasion is in Malachi 3 where He challenges us to give Him one-tenth of our income. To those who accept, He promises to pour out a blessing. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sabbath also contains a challenge. God invites us to give Him one-seventh of our time. If we do, He promises to bless us. “If you . . . call the Sabbath a delight . . . then shall you delight yourself in the Lord” (Isaiah 58:13-14). I experience this Sabbath blessing every week.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResting on the Sabbath restores me physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually. It de-stresses me from the burdens of life. I enjoy uninterrupted time with family and friends that keeps our relationships alive. Worshipping with fellow believers energizes me. I gain insight and inspiration from Bible study and sermons on the Sabbath. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sabbath gives me a reason to stop all earthly pursuits every week. Since it is God’s command, it leaves no room to compromise for a pressing project at work, or any other thing that might come up. This protects the Sabbath rest from simply becoming a good intention that I will get to one day. It is God’s command—no questions asked—so I happily do it and leave everything else to the other six days as God says. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found Jesus’ words to be true—He made the Sabbath for man (Mark 2:28). That is, the Sabbath is not something that God does to us, but is something wonderful He does for us. In this busy age in which we live, I treasure all of the positive blessings that I get to experience, because God has kindly given us the Sabbath.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI understand that my going to church on Saturday may appear strange. But now you know that I do it because I am committed to following the Bible, I love Jesus as my Creator and Savior, and I have discovered God’s Sabbath blessing. You can also enjoy this wonderful experience. If you’d like to know how, or you want more information, just contact GLOW and they can help you.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*See glowonline.org\/dan7, item 24\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover design: ©www.typofire.com\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43949115670711,"sku":"WHY","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Why-Church-on-Saturday-Cover-web.jpg?v=1732298635"},{"product_id":"why-i-go-to-church-on-saturday-copy","title":"Return to Rest","description":"\u003cp\u003eReturn to Rest\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYears ago television stations played the national anthem and signed off sometime after midnight. No more. These days, programming fills the wee hours of the morning. Anyone awake at those hours can be pummeled with unending news, weather, and\/or infomercial pitches for gadgets no one never knew were needed. Even in small cities, giant superstores open their doors round the clock. Increasingly, we live in a 24\/7 world.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBusiness hours are busier than ever. Multitasking is the name of the game. Even on the road, we can take or make phone calls, message an uncle in Chicago, check on stock prices, receive news updates, learn the scores in yesterday’s rugby match in New Zealand, and download music or video on our smartphones.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor many of us, eight-hour days at the office have become every-waking-hour days where the office, business, and the world invade our homes. Eventually we realize that we need rest—not total inactivity, but a change of pace. We need a change from endless concerns about next quarter’s bottom line—a change to things both timeless and eternal. A change, yes, to love, and family, and our place in the world. “The unexamined life is not worth living,” wrote Socrates, and increasingly we know this to be true. We work and plan, strive and acquire, but to what end? So long as we allow ourselves to be mesmerized by the streams of data that fill the air all around us like an invisible smog, we will not pause and contemplate the truly important issues.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBusiness publications like \u003ci\u003eThe Wall Street Journal\u003c\/i\u003e have called for—can we believe it?—a return to a Sabbath. In an editorial, American journalist Mollie Ziegler Hemingway puts it this way: “The flip side to the prosperity we enjoy is that we have lost our day of rest for another day of consumption. The pace of commerce and technology provide unheard of options for ignoring family, religion and rest—not just on the Sabbath but every day of the week.”*\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Remedy\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sabbath offers exactly the antidote we need to counter today’s information overload and anxiety disorders. The Sabbath provides a refuge, a rest, a respite from the constant activity and endless barrage of stimuli. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bible tells us that God built our need for rest—and the remedy—into the very fabric of creation. God “blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation” (Genesis 2:3). By resting from all the work that He had done, God provided a model and example. In the Ten Commandments, He makes this example specific and binding: “Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD your God” (Exodus 20:9-10, NKJV). Note that neither text says, “work six days out of seven, and rest on one.” Rather, each is explicit that the seventh day is the Sabbath. The seventh day, not a seventh day—and that day is Saturday.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSaturday? We may have been taught that God gave the Saturday Sabbath at Sinai only for the Jews. If that’s true, then not killing and not stealing would also be only for the Jews. Some claim that the cross ended the claims of the Sabbath. Once again, that would mean we’re free to murder and steal—but no one believes that. Some have taught that we worship on Sunday in honor of the Lord’s resurrection. Certainly it is important to remember the resurrection, but the Bible never tells us to remember it.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bible does tell us to remember His death (1 Corinthians 11:24–26). This is a striking parallel to the way the Ten Commandments tell us to remember the Sabbath. Further, we discover that Jesus rested in the tomb only one full day, on the Sabbath. Rather than abolishing the Sabbath, Jesus’ death reinforces it. As He had rested from the work of creation on the seventh day of Creation week, Jesus rested from His work of redemption on the seventh day of redemption week (commonly called Passion Week).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost of us don’t like the ideas of \u003ci\u003ecommandments\u003c\/i\u003e or \u003ci\u003eobedience\u003c\/i\u003e,\u003ci\u003e \u003c\/i\u003ebut in this case especially, this dislike is foolish and unnecessary. Imagine that a doctor told you to take a vacation, and then revealed that he had a vacation designed to meet your deepest needs. This analogy describes the Sabbath. Jesus himself said, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27). The Sabbath is not an arbitrary hoop for us to jump through—we have enough of those the other six days—but a rest tailored to meet our needs. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSpecial Day, Special Rest\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy not Sunday or Tuesday? Why Saturday? The creation story in Genesis tells us that “God blessed the seventh day and made it holy” (Genesis 2:3). What does it mean to make something holy? When Moses stood in front of the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-5), he stood on holy ground. What made it holy? The presence of God. God makes the Sabbath holy by being present on that day in some special way. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Wait a minute,” we may say. “Isn’t God present on every day?” Yes, that is true. It is also true that God is present everywhere; but God didn’t require Moses to remove his shoes everywhere—only at the burning bush. Just like the Sabbath, God was present at the burning bush in some way that differs from the way He is present everywhere else. Those who set aside Saturday, the seventh day, to rest from their everyday pursuits and meet with their family and with God can attest that humans truly can experience Him in a special way on that day.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy not try keeping the Sabbath? A rest is waiting for you. If you would like to explore the possibilities of the Sabbath, contact us (see back panel). Those who live nearby would be glad to share the Sabbath with you. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*https:\/\/www.wsj.com\/articles\/SB118188016993336540\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scriptures marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Cover image: ©www.unsplash.com.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43949130678455,"sku":"RTR","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Return-to-Rest-Cover-website.jpg?v=1732298960"},{"product_id":"death-s-silent-truth-copy","title":"Sunday Is For Football","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSunday is for Football, Saturday is for___________.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo many, my Saturday church attendance appears to be out of step with the Sunday Christian tradition. They wonder how I can be so confused as to go on the “wrong day.” So, exactly why do I, and millions like me, choose Saturday over Sunday? Consider these three reasons that may surprise you.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eReason One—\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eGod’s Word\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI go to church on Saturday because it is biblical and Sunday church attendance is not. While God welcomes worship every day of the week, He set aside the seventh day as a special day of rest. This day is called the Sabbath and corresponds with Saturday. It was given to humankind at creation, about 2,000 years before the Jewish people existed (Genesis 2:1-3). Jesus said the “Sabbath was made for man”—not just for Jews (Mark 2:27).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt creation, God performed three deliberate acts to make the seventh day uniquely different from the other six—He rested, blessed, and sanctified the Sabbath (Genesis 2:2, 3). This is extremely significant.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst, we need rest from labor and time to reflect. God wired us this way. This is why He drew us aside that very first seventh day of creation for special time with Him. Second, God packed a spiritual blessing into the seventh day that He didn’t put into the other six. Lastly, God drew a boundary around this 24-hour period and designated it as a day to be wholly dedicated to pursuing a relationship with Him.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf we examine every verse in the Bible on the Sabbath we discover some amazing things. All the Old Testament people of God enjoyed its blessing—and we must remember that until Abraham no one was Jewish (Genesis 11:26). Jesus honored the Sabbath by keeping it every week (Luke 4:16). The disciples kept it (Acts 18:4, 11; 16:13). It will be kept in heaven and the new earth (Isaiah 66:22-23). The Bible presents an unbroken cycle of Sabbath observance from man’s creation to the earth made new.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo why do most Christian churches worship on Sunday? The answer—tradition. You see, the Bible never records God changing the Sabbath from the seventh day to the first. The only change of God’s law mentioned in Scripture is attempted by a clever inside attack on the church (See Daniel 7:25).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis change came in long after the disciples died. By the third and fourth centuries, history records some Christians kept the pagan worship day (Sunday) in Rome and other places where the church was compromising to escape persecution. As the church at Rome grew in political power and developed into the Roman Catholic Church, it officially sanctioned Sunday keeping instead of the Sabbath. Today, it points to this fact of history as proof that its authority and tradition is superior to the plain teaching of Scripture.*\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eReason Two—\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eLove\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSabbath keeping is not legalism. “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). The fourth commandment has never been changed by God—only by man. Since the Sabbath is the Bible day for weekly worship, and since Jesus kept the Sabbath Himself, I observe the Sabbath out of love for Him. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are many reasons why I love and obey Jesus. Two primary ones are that He is my Creator and Redeemer (John 1:1-3; Titus 2:14). Jesus created the earth in six days and rested on the seventh. The Sabbath is God’s official memorial or “sign” between Him and His people that He is our Creator (Exodus 31:17). And just prior to Jesus’ return, a message from God calls everyone to “worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water” (Revelation 14:6-7). Every time I “remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy,” I honor my Creator as the one who holds my life in His hand (Exodus 20:8-11).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot only did Jesus create humans, He also redeems us from sin. The Sabbath is a special sign of this salvation—“a sign between them and Me, that they might know that I am the Lord who sanctifies them” (Ezekiel 20:12). Refraining once a week from secular employment to support ourselves reminds us that we can’t work to earn our eternal salvation—it is a gift of God, and we are wholly dependent upon Him (Hebrews 4:4-10). If I can’t trust God to care for my earthly livelihood one day a week, how can I truly say that I trust Him for my eternal life?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery Sabbath reminds me of the love Jesus has given us through creation and redemption. Just as anniversaries are memorials designed to refresh our love for those closest to us, so the seventh day Sabbath reminds us of God’s love and our utter dependence on Him for life in this world and the next.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eReason Three—\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe third reason I keep the Sabbath is because I’ve responded to Jesus’ invitation to try it and see if His Word is true. God often invites us to test Him. One such occasion is in Malachi 3 where He challenges us to give Him one-tenth of our income. To those who accept, He promises to pour out a blessing. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sabbath also contains a challenge. God invites us to give Him one-seventh of our time. If we do, He promises to bless us. “If you . . . call the Sabbath a delight . . . then shall you delight yourself in the Lord” (Isaiah 58:13-14). I experience this Sabbath blessing every week.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResting on the Sabbath restores me physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually. It de-stresses me from the burdens of life. I enjoy uninterrupted time with family and friends that keeps our relationships alive. Worshipping with fellow believers energizes me. I gain insight and inspiration from Bible study and sermons on the Sabbath. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sabbath gives me a reason to stop all earthly pursuits every week. Since it is God’s command, it leaves no room to compromise for a pressing project at work, or any other thing that might come up. This protects the Sabbath rest from simply becoming a good intention that I will get to one day. It is God’s command—no questions asked—so I happily do it and leave everything else to the other six days as God says. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found Jesus’ words to be true—He made the Sabbath for man (Mark 2:28). That is, the Sabbath is not something that God does to us, but is something wonderful He does for us. In this busy age in which we live, I treasure all of the positive blessings that I get to experience, because God has kindly given us the Sabbath.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI understand that my going to church on Saturday may appear strange. But now you know that I do it because I am committed to following the Bible, I love Jesus as my Creator and Savior, and I have discovered God’s Sabbath blessing. You can also enjoy this wonderful experience. If you’d like to know how, or you want more information, just contact GLOW and they can help you.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*See glowonline.org\/dan7, item 24\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover design: ©www.typofire.com\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43949141590199,"sku":"SIFF","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Why-Church-on-Saturday-Football-web.jpg?v=1732299118"},{"product_id":"ancient-scrolls-discovered-in-forgotten-caves-1","title":"Ancient Scrolls Discovered in Forgotten Caves","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAncient Scrolls Discovered in \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eForgotten\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e Caves \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1947 a shepherd boy named Mohammed ed-Dhib set off through the cliffs of the Judean wilderness in search of a wandering goat from his flock. As he climbed up the rugged terrain in search of the goat, he stumbled onto a cave. Curious about the depth of the cave, he tossed in a small stone expecting it to hit the bottom, but instead, he heard the sound of breaking pottery. This shepherd boy had accidentally discovered Biblical archaeology’s greatest find. Later exploration into the early 1950’s revealed ancient scrolls kept in jars, hidden in a total of eleven caves. These documents, called the Dead Sea Scrolls, were the oldest Biblical texts ever found, each over 2,000 years old. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Dead Sea Scrolls and Daniel\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExperts later translated the Dead Sea Scrolls and discovered that they contained every book of the Old Testament except Esther, plus other texts including commentaries on biblical books. The scrolls containing the book of Daniel revealed amazing new insights.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Date for Daniel\u003c\/i\u003e. According to the Bible, Daniel lived in ancient Babylon after the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. until his death in the Persian Empire. He received several prophetic visions that foretold future world events. Modern skeptics reject the possibility of any miraculous future prediction and attempt to re-date the book of Daniel to the second century B.C., \u003ci\u003eafter \u003c\/i\u003emany of Daniel’s predicted events would have happened. In their minds, Daniel is no longer foretelling the future but simply retelling events that already had happened in the past. The Dead Sea Scroll discoveries shed new light on this modern re-dating—and here’s how. The eight copies of the book of Daniel have been dated to the late second century B.C. Both Frank Moore Cross of Harvard University and Eugene Ulrich of Notre Dame University argue that the date and number of copies in use indicate that the book of Daniel was already considered as part of Scripture by this time. This shows strong evidence for a much earlier date for the composition of Daniel, because the process of recognition by the community needed to have already occurred. (Even if Daniel were written in the second century B.C., as skeptics have suggested, its accurate predictions run well past that time.)\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Textual Accuracy of Daniel\u003c\/i\u003e. Before the publication of the Dead Sea Scrolls, many scholars argued that biblical books like Daniel evolved over time. Words, phrases, and larger portions were supposedly changed or added. Until the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, the earliest copies of the Bible dated to the tenth-eleventh centuries A.D. A huge gap—about 1,500 years—existed between the time of Daniel and the European Middle Ages. The new publication of Daniel by Dead Sea Scroll scholars provided new texts over a thousand years older than previous manuscripts with which to compare Daniel’s prophecies. The scrolls revealed parts of all the chapters of Daniel except chapter 12. These chapters show remarkable similarity to other manuscripts: 1) There is no significant abbreviation or addition. 2) The transition from Aramaic to Hebrew and back occurs in the exact same places. 3) The eight different copies agree very closely with the tenth-eleventh century texts upon which our modern translations are based. This is an enormous discovery that gives great credibility to the accuracy and dating of the book of Daniel. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Places, People, and Events in Daniel Confirmed\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDaniel’s stories and prophecies place the book within the three military campaigns of Babylon’s King Nebuchadnezzar against Judah. Babylon’s armies capture Daniel and his friends in 605 B.C. (Daniel 1). They take Ezekiel the prophet in 597 B.C. together with 10,000 other prisoners (2 Kings 24:14), and leave the prophet Jeremiah behind to provide hope for the poorest who remain in Jerusalem. Finally, in 586 B.C. Nebuchadnezzar destroys Jerusalem and the temple, deporting many of its inhabitants to Babylon (2 Kings 25:1-21). The following six points show how archaeology, in addition to the Dead Sea Scrolls, confirms the accuracy of these biblical events.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Babylonian Chronicles\u003c\/i\u003e are the official records of the campaigns of Nebuchadnezzar. The text, now in the British Museum, is partially broken but clearly documents the 597 B.C. campaign against Jerusalem as described in the Bible. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Lachish Letters\u003c\/i\u003e were found in 1930 in the destroyed gate of the city of Lachish. One letter contains the words, “We are watching for the fire signals of Lachish according to all the signs which my lord has given, because we cannot see Azekah.” Sent by messenger to Lachish, the text informs the inhabitants that Azekah has already been conquered and Lachish may be next. According to Jeremiah 34:7, only Azekah and Lachish remained of the cities of Judah during this last campaign by Nebuchadnezzar. This letter confirms this picture and gives the next stage of the campaign strategy—the destruction of the guardian city of Lachish before the armies advanced on Jerusalem.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe construction of Babylon\u003c\/i\u003e is claimed by Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:30), but no classical writer had ever said so. Moreover, historians knew that Babylon had existed for over a thousand years before Nebuchadnezzar. How could he claim to have built the city? The German expedition to Babylon from 1899-1915 uncovered thousands of mud bricks used in the walls and buildings all stamped with Nebuchadnezzar’s name. Moreover, eight gates surrounded the city, each named after a well-known Babylonian god. The famous Ishtar gate reconstructed in Berlin bears a dedicatory inscription of Nebuchadnezzar. He had indeed rebuilt the city after its destruction by the Assyrians.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe name of “Baruch the son of \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eNeriah\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e, the scribe” \u003c\/i\u003ewas discovered on a seal impression found in the destruction debris of Jerusalem. Baruch served as the personal scribe of the prophet Jeremiah and helped the prophet write the book (Jeremiah 32:12).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe name \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eNebu-sarsekim\u003c\/i\u003e was discovered in 2007 on a financial record by a researcher in the British Museum. The inscription dates to the tenth year of King Nebuchadnezzar. Jeremiah 39:3 mentions Nebu-sarsekim in the account of Nebuchadnezzar’s last campaign against Judah. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Cyrus Cylinder\u003c\/i\u003e, discovered in Babylon in 1879, was issued by Cyrus the Great to commemorate his conquest of Babylon in 539 B.C. Cyrus describes himself entering the city peacefully, welcomed by the population as a liberator. This corresponds with the prophecy of Isaiah (44:28-45:3), stating that Babylon fell without a prolonged siege or fight by Cyrus, the “anointed one.” The cylinder also records the liberation of the captive nations held by Babylon and their return to their cities. Ezra (1:1-6) records that Cyrus freed the Jews who had been brought into exile by Nebuchadnezzar, allowing them to return to Jerusalem.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eConclusion\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe shepherd boy’s discovery, as well as the excavation of ancient sites in the Middle East, has allowed new information about the world of the Bible to emerge from the sands of time. This evidence confirms the accuracy, authority, and credibility of the Bible, including its prophecies. Students of these civilizations have seen prophecy vividly come to life. Such new scientific data provides evidence of the Bible’s supernatural origin and leads to the question of its impact on my life and yours. Will we read and trust the Bible? \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43949148045495,"sku":"ASDIFC","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Ancient-Scrolls-Cover-web1.png?v=1732299236"},{"product_id":"death-s-silent-truth-1","title":"Death's Silent Truth","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDeath’s Silent Truth\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMichael Jackson’s untimely death on June 25, 2009, shocked the world. At his July 7 memorial service at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, actress Brooke Shields valiantly attempted to comfort the King of Pop’s grieving fans when she tearfully moaned, “We need to look up where he is undoubtedly perched in a crescent moon.”\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhere did Michael Jackson really go? Where does anyone go after he or she dies? Do saints instantly soar to heaven while lost sinners plunge into hell? Is there a holding tank called purgatory? Do we slip into the spirit world to float around on the Other Side? What about reincarnation? Might we return as mice?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur world is full of conflicting theories, but we will consult only one source: the Holy Bible. The Bible’s last book, Revelation, solemnly warns that an invisible fallen angel named Satan “deceives the whole world” (Revelation 12:9). If this verse is true, we can’t expect the majority of human beings to be right about anything, especially about something as important as what happens to a dead person after the preacher says, “Ashes to ashes, dust to dust,” at the end of a funeral service.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThree Primary Views\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLet’s begin by keeping things simple. First of all, there are three primary viewpoints about death under which most other theories fall.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eYou’re \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eDead\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003e and That’s It\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e. The first is quite popular—though utterly dismal—and is promoted by those who believe that all reality can ultimately be reduced to what science alone can explain. Based on their “what you see is what you get” dogma, they assume death is the end. Period. We die, rot in the ground, become food for worms, and that’s it. We're gone forever.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Immortal Soul\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e. This second view, the most common, teaches that when we die, only the body decomposes. The higher self, or soul, journeys on, much like a snake shedding its skin. Of course different religions often disagree with each other about where souls go after death, but the basic idea of soul survival is shared by most.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eMortal Souls and the Resurrection\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e. The final view argues that the word “soul” refers to the entire person, and not to some distinct immortal aspect that survives after the physical body perishes. When God created Adam, He “breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man \u003ci\u003ebecame a living soul\u003c\/i\u003e” (Genesis 2:7, KJV, emphasis added). Thus man doesn’t have a soul, as such, but rather he \u003ci\u003eis\u003c\/i\u003e a soul. After the first man sinned, his entire person, or soul, became mortal, or subject to death. When sinners die, they return to dust, and “the breath of life” returns to God (Ecclesiastes 12:7). This “breath” isn’t a conscious ghost that can visit Chicago after its host is buried in Detroit, but is rather a spark of life that exists in everything alive. According to this viewpoint, at death people are completely dead—that is, they are unconscious, silent, asleep in the grave, waiting for Resurrection Day.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhich view is right? For starters, we reject atheistic nihilism because we believe that God exists and that His word is true. There is a heaven, and a hell too. What about the other two views, with their opposing ideas on the nature of the soul? What does God’s book really teach? \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBible Facts \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e Death\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs we’ve already seen, the Bible teaches that when God first formed Adam, “he became a living soul” (Genesis 2:7, KJV). Years later, “seventy souls” went to Egypt (see Exodus 1:5, KJV). The context shows that this wasn’t talking about seventy ghosts, but seventy living human beings who went to Egypt. Got it? A soul is a person.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNext fact: fallen human beings are not immortal. If you look up the word “immortality” in any Biblical concordance, you will discover that it currently applies only to God. God “alone has immortality” (1 Timothy 6:16). Only after His saints are resurrected at the second coming of Jesus Christ, “this mortal” will “put on immortality” (1 Corinthians 15:54). Obviously, His saints wouldn’t “put on” an immortal existence if they previously had one.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNext point: in the Bible, death is called “sleep” over 50 times. In Old Testament times, King David prayed for protection lest he “sleep the sleep of death” (Psalm 13:3). At the end of the world, those who “sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake” (Daniel 12:2). Thus dead people lie peacefully sleeping “in the dust of the earth” until Resurrection Day.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow here’s the kicker. In the meantime, the Bible is emphatic that “the dead know nothing” (Ecclesiastes 9:5). “Nothing” means nothing. Zero. Five verses later Solomon clarified that “there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going” (Ecclesiastes 9:10). David agreed when he wrote, “The dead do not praise the Lord, nor any who go down into silence” (Psalm 115:17). Thus the dead sleep silently. They are not shouting above or howling below. Neither can they knock on your door after their own funerals. In other words, Michael Jackson isn’t doing his famous moonwalk dance somewhere in the universe. Instead, he’s dead, in his grave, awaiting the Day of Judgment (Hebrews 9:27).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe highpoint of the entire Bible is what happened to Jesus Christ nearly two thousand years ago. During His holy ministry, our Lord plainly predicted that He would “be killed, and be raised the third day” (Matthew 16:21). So it happened. Shortly thereafter unholy hands arrested Him, beat Him, and crucified Him. Paul clarified what really happened—“Christ died for our sins” (1 Corinthians 15:3). “Christ died” means He was really dead. Three days later a holy angel announced, “He is risen from the dead” (Matthew 28:7). Halleluiah!\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is because of Jesus Christ’s resurrection that we have hope. Soon—and the day will arrive sooner than most people think—our Savior will return to earth “with power and great glory,” with myriads of heavenly angels (see Matthew 24:30-31). Paul clarified that it is at that time—when He returns to earth—that “the dead in Christ will rise first” and that “we shall always be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). Thus believers in Jesus will be resurrected to “be with the Lord” when He returns.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Bottom Line\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bottom line: we all know that death is real—and it hurts. Yet in the middle of grief and loss, the good news is that Jesus Christ loves us, paid the penalty for our sins, entered a clammy tomb, and was raised to life. He conquered death and the grave. If we trust His victory, we can beat death too. Long ago Jesus made a promise to those who respond to His love, repent of their sins, and trust in His grace: “I will raise him up at the last day” (John 6:44).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis promise of a glorious eternal life is for you today.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnless otherwise noted, Scripture is taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture marked KJV is taken from the King James Version.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover design: ©www.typofire.com\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43949176586423,"sku":"DST","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Deaths-Silent-Truth-web.png?v=1732299588"},{"product_id":"unity-truth","title":"Unity Truth","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnity \u0026gt; Truth?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOctober 31, 2017, isn’t just about Halloween. Ghosts, Dracula, and witches aside, this special date marks the 500-year anniversary of an event that altered the course of history. “Bang, bang, bang,” pounded the hammer of Augustinian monk Martin Luther as he nailed his famous “95 Theses on the Power of Indulgences” on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. In a nutshell, Luther’s document condemned the widespread practice of paying money to the Roman Catholic Church in exchange for certificates called \u003ci\u003ei\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003endulgences\u003c\/i\u003e. Indulgences granted a reduction in punishment for sins committed by payees (or their dead relatives).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eIndulgences are lies, \u003c\/i\u003ethundered the German monk. \u003ci\u003eGod’s favor is a gift. It’s not for sale!\u003c\/i\u003e \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1517 A.D., Luther’s bold \"bang!\" shook Europe. As his revolutionary message spread, it became God’s tool to ignite the Protestant Reformation. The word \u003ci\u003ep\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003erotestant\u003c\/i\u003e means that a person is protesting or objecting to something. As a result of Luther’s protesting movement, millions lost confidence in popes and priests and abandoned the Roman Church. Protestant churches—such as Lutheran, Presbyterian, Baptist, Mennonite and Methodist—rose unstoppably in its wake. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFast-forward 500 years to October 31, 2017. Is the reformation over? Is the protest dead? Millions think so. Look around. Watch the news. Today, countless so-called Protestants are reuniting with the Roman Church in a large-scale ecumenical movement. “Let’s lay our differences aside,” leaders on both sides of the divide now suggest, “and unite to bless the world.” But should Catholics and Protestants unite? While God desires His people to be united, the Bible says it should not be at the cost of compromising the teachings of Holy Scripture. In fact, there are some differences that Christians should even be willing to \u003ci\u003edie for\u003c\/i\u003e. This is what led most of Jesus’ disciples to die as martyrs and millions more to share the same fate through hundreds of years.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Heart of the Controversy\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe heart of the Protestant vs. Catholic controversy centers around how sinners like us can be eternally saved and go to heaven. In 1450 A.D., the printing press was invented, and the first book printed was the Bible. Previously unread, Christians throughout Europe gazed upon—for the first time ever—the sacred pages of God’s Book. In 1501, Martin Luther discovered a Latin Bible in a library in Germany. \u003ci\u003eUnbelievable, \u003c\/i\u003eLuther pondered while reading it, \u003ci\u003ethis is different from what my church teaches.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt first, Luther tried to reform the church, but his efforts were viciously resisted. Roman Catholic leaders labeled him a heretic and pressured him to recant, threatening both him and his followers with imprisonment and loss of all possessions. Luther countered that Christians should place God’s Word first, even above the Pope. \u003ci\u003eThe war was on. \u003c\/i\u003eAs the conflict intensified, Protestants eventually developed these fundamental principles. Their rallying cry was: \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“\u003ci\u003eSola Scriptura\u003c\/i\u003e,” by Scripture alone\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“\u003ci\u003eSola Christo\u003c\/i\u003e,” through Christ alone\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“\u003ci\u003eSola Fide\u003c\/i\u003e,” by faith alone\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“\u003ci\u003eSola Gratia\u003c\/i\u003e,” by grace alone\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, the Roman Catholic Church also taught (as it does today) the importance of faith, the value of Bible reading, and salvation through Christ and His grace; yet that small four-letter Latin word \u003ci\u003e“sola”\u003c\/i\u003e (meaning \u003ci\u003e“alone”\u003c\/i\u003e) became the dividing line between reforming Protestants and Catholicism. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 1500s, Protestants taught that a person can reach heaven by God’s grace \u003ci\u003ealone, \u003c\/i\u003ethrough faith \u003ci\u003ealone,\u003c\/i\u003e in Jesus Christ’s perfect merits \u003ci\u003ealone,\u003c\/i\u003e based on what is written in the Bible \u003ci\u003ealone; \u003c\/i\u003ewhereas Rome added to the requirements of salvation numerous traditions, such as praying to Mary and dead saints, repeating the rosary, confessing sins to priests, performing works of penance, paying money to release one’s dead relatives from the flames of purgatory, and above all, belief in the supreme authority of the Pope as the successor of St. Peter—the universal head of Christianity. Rome also added the notion that temporal punishment for sin could be reduced by purchasing indulgences. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCatholic leaders admitted that these traditions aren’t mentioned in the Bible specifically, but asserted that they come from the Holy Spirit working through God’s Church. Protestants didn’t buy it. They decided to stick with Scripture. In the 1500s, these issues divided Christendom. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eProphetic Study\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSignificantly, as the struggle deepened, Luther turned to the prophecies. By candlelight he read Paul’s solemn prediction of a “falling away” (apostasy) in Christian history, and of a “man of sin” to arise in its wake (2 Thessalonians 2:3). He read of the antichrist “beast” waging fierce “war with the saints” (Revelation 13:1, 7), and of a mysterious Babylonian harlot (a false church) having illicit geo-political relationships with “the kings of the earth” (Revelation 17:1-5; 18:4). Little by little, the pieces came together. Horrified, Luther finally realized that he had discovered both \u003ci\u003eChrist \u003c\/i\u003eand\u003ci\u003e antichrist.\u003c\/i\u003e Compelled by the Spirit of God, Luther finally threw aside political correctness, went public, and declared, “We here are of the conviction that the papacy is the seat of the true and real Antichrist.”\u003cspan data-fontsize=\"12\"\u003e1\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eCatholicism is a cleverly crafted counterfeit Christianity,\u003c\/i\u003e Luther soberly realized. This was a conclusion that many careful Bible students before and after him had also discovered. People such as John Wycliffe, John Huss (Moravian), John Calvin (Presbyterian), John Wesley (Methodist), Charles Spurgeon (Baptist), Matthew Henry (Bible commentator), and countless others. Google this.\u003cspan data-fontsize=\"12\"\u003e2\u003c\/span\u003e These are facts.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eBut haven’t times changed? \u003c\/i\u003eIndeed, they have. Essentially, Rome has not changed, but Protestantism. Unwittingly, Protestants now seeking union with Rome are fulfilling an ancient apocalyptic prophecy that states that in the closing moments of time, “all the world marveled and followed the beast” (Revelation 13:3).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDear reader, the Bible is still true today. The beast is still active. Eternal salvation from our sinful violations of God’s Ten Commandments still comes only through simple faith in Jesus Christ \u003ci\u003ealone\u003c\/i\u003e (see 1 John 3:4; Acts 4:12). \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProphecy also predicts that right before our Savior returns (Revelation 14:14-16), God Almighty will initiate His closing phase of the Protestant Reformation through the global proclamation of three angels’ messages recorded in Revelation 14:6-12. Pick up a Bible. Read Revelation 14:6-12 for yourself. God’s three angels announce that the “hour of His judgment has come” and urge true worship of the Creator (verse 7). They warn about “the beast” (the Roman Church), who we now realize has also changed God’s original seventh-day Sabbath (Saturday) into Sunday (see Genesis 2:1-3; Daniel 7:25; Revelation 14:7, 12; Exodus 20:8-11; Matthew 12:8; 28:1-2; John 14:15).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbove all, God’s end-time message urges us all to believe in “the everlasting gospel” (Revelation 14:6) of Jesus Christ who \u003ci\u003eloves everyone,\u003c\/i\u003e and paid the full price for our sins (see John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOctober 31 commemorates more than ghosts and the dead. Make no mistake about it: God’s Reformation, started on a Halloween night, is alive, and will exist to the close of time. \u003ci\u003eLet’s be part of it.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-fontsize=\"10\"\u003e1\u003c\/span\u003eLeRoy Froom, \u003ci\u003eThe Prophetic Faith of Our Fathers\u003c\/i\u003e, Vol. II (Washington D.C.: Review and Herald, 1948), p. 121.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-fontsize=\"10\"\u003e2\u003c\/span\u003eFor example, try searching for “\u003ci\u003eantichrist\u003c\/i\u003e” or \u003ci\u003e“what did protestant reformers believe about the antichrist?” \u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43949182419127,"sku":"UT","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Unity-Truth-RGB-web.jpg?v=1732299698"},{"product_id":"what-is-jesus-doing-now","title":"What Is Jesus Doing Now","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhat is Jesus Doing Now?\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEver wonder what Jesus is doing right now? According to the Bible, after Jesus died for the sins of the world, He rose from the dead and ascended to heaven. So what is He doing right now? Is He just sitting on a cloud? Is He passing His time watching what we are doing here on earth while seated on His throne? Is He supervising the construction of our golden-brick homes in heaven? Fortunately, we don’t have to speculate. The Bible tells us exactly what Jesus is doing right now. He is judging you and me in preparation for His soon return. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImpossible! you may be thinking.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s more than possible. The Bible says: “Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day on which \u003ci\u003eHe will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained\u003c\/i\u003e. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead” (Acts 17:30-31, emphasis added).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis inspired passage teaches that God Almighty “will judge the world \u003ci\u003eby the Man\u003c\/i\u003e whom He has ordained.” That “Man” is Jesus Himself, who “rose from the dead.” Jesus affirmed the same truth when He declared, “the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son” (John 5:22). That settles it. Jesus isn't just our Savior who died for our sins, \u003ci\u003ebut He is our Judge also\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eInvestigating What Jesus Is Doing\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut is He judging us \u003ci\u003etoday\u003c\/i\u003e? Some believe so, others disagree. If you ask five pastors, four priests, and even the Pope, you may get ten different answers. But speculation is worthless, just like the flowery promises of many politicians. So let's allow God to answer this question. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 14th chapter of His book of Revelation—the greatest book of apocalyptic prophecy ever written—verses 14-16 describe Jesus Christ’s visible and climactic return at the end of the world. Notice carefully the same chapter's earnest proclamation about what occurs just prior to His return. Verse six depicts a holy angel shouting to “every nation, tribe, tongue, and people . . . , ‘Fear God and give glory to Him, \u003ci\u003efor the hour \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eH\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eis judgment has come\u003c\/i\u003e” (Revelation 14:7, emphasis added).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLook closely. Pick up a Bible and read for yourself. Revelation 14:7 boldly announces that “the hour of His judgment \u003ci\u003ehas come\u003c\/i\u003e,” and this judgment takes place at exactly the same time that the “everlasting gospel”—the message of salvation through Christ's death and resurrection—is being preached worldwide (verse 6). This announcement also occurs just prior to His glorious return to the earth (compare verses 6-7 with verses 14-16 and Matthew 24:14). Putting these pieces together shows that humans are being judged \u003ci\u003enow, before Christ’s return\u003c\/i\u003e. And as we have already learned from Acts 17:30-31 and John 5:22, Jesus Himself is our Judge. \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy is Jesus judging us? First, because when He returns to earth He will dispense rewards and punishments (see Revelation 22:12), and each person’s case must be decided before Christ's return so He can “render to each one according to his deeds” (Romans 2:5-10). In multiple places the Bible reveals that before God punishes the wicked or rewards the righteous, an investigation takes place where the deeds and motives of those being judged are brought to light before the universe (see Daniel 7:9-10; Revelation 20:11-15;1 Corinthians 4:5). The universe!? Yes. The universe.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy would God need to show other created beings the hearts of those He is judging? God wants everyone to see and trust His decision-making. David understood this clearly. When speaking to God he said, “that You may be found . . . blameless when You judge” (Psalm 51:4). Such an open investigation of the hearts of the human family will prove God blameless when He executes justice on the sinner and gives eternal life to the saint. When sin is finally destroyed forever, no one in God’s created universe will have any lingering doubts about God’s wisdom and goodness in dealing with sin, sinners, and the saved. Everyone in heaven will say, “Alleluia! Salvation and glory and honor and power belong to the Lord our God! For \u003ci\u003etrue and righteous are His judgments\u003c\/i\u003e” (Revelation 19:1-2, emphasis added).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eA Warning and an Offer\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":2,\"335551620\":2,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo what is the point for us today? As we saw earlier, just prior to Christ’s glorious return to earth, a proclamation will be given to the world warning all to “Fear God, and give glory to Him for the hour of His judgment has come” (Revelation 14:7). This message is now in your hands.  \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus Christ is judging us now. When He returns, those persons who have responded to His gift of salvation, turned from sin, and trusted His grace, will be rescued and rewarded. Those who have rejected His merciful offer of salvation and held onto their evil ways will be punished. The judgment is unavoidable—it is coming to everyone. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad” (2 Corinthians 5:10).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book of Revelation says that “the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars” are destined for “the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death” (Revelation 21:8). Do any of these sins describe you? Make no mistake about it: Jesus Christ is the Judge, and every violation of the Ten Commandments is “written in the books” (Revelation 20:12).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe thought of being judged by a Being who knows our deepest secrets can be terrifying—and it ought to be. But God doesn’t want us to live in terror. He has provided a way for our darkest sins to be wiped clean from our record so that we can experience peace and freedom from guilt. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow can your record be cleansed? The Judge of all the earth has already started the process by paying the penalty for your sins. “For God so loved the world,” Jesus Himself stated, “that He gave His only begotten Son, \u003ci\u003ethat whoever \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003ebelieves in Him should not perish but have everlasting life\u003c\/i\u003e” (John 3:16, emphasis added). If you repent, He will forgive and cleanse you of your guilt. If you trust Him fully, you too can be ready when He returns.    \u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, you can choose to give yourself to God and then, by His grace, grow into a true follower of Christ as you gain strength through daily Bible study, prayer, and sharing of your faith.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoon Jesus will come and “Not guilty!” will then be His verdict.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559731\":432,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335551550\":6,\"335551620\":6,\"335559739\":200,\"335559740\":300}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43949187727543,"sku":"WJDN","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/What-is-Jesus-Doing-Now-RGB-web.jpg?v=1732299822"},{"product_id":"black-friday-deal","title":"Black Friday Deal","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACK FRIDAY DEAL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHuman behavior can be strange. Red-faced and with fists clenched, a motorist screams at the top of his lungs, like a toddler throwing a tantrum. He zooms past a vehicle that is moving far too slowly for his temper to tolerate. Or how about the puzzling scene of a star-struck fan who encounters her favorite teen idol? His presence reduces her to a shaking, weeping, emotional mess.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut the ultimate display of cultural craziness is Black Friday. It’s hard to miss. The insane fervor, the ravenous push—yes, a literal PUSH—to acquire… material possessions… at a discount?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou’ve seen the clips online. You’ve watched, stunned, to see mayhem and madness take over, as a tsunami of adrenaline-rushed consumers put it all on the line for their desired bargain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou could call it mob psychology. You could call it greed and the collapse of decency. Or you could call it the cleverest marketing scheme in the history of the world!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s Black Friday—the highly profitable day when retailers hope to go heavily into \u003cem\u003ethe black\u003c\/em\u003e in their profit or loss for the year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnfortunately, what gets lost in the shuffle (or should we say, \u003cem\u003estampede\u003c\/em\u003e) is an even more profitable “black Friday,” which took place 2000 years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Original ‘Black’ Friday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDid you know that when Jesus died on the cross the sky literally went dark? It was dark for three hours that Friday afternoon (Luke 23:44-45)! It was the original \u003cem\u003eblack\u003c\/em\u003e Friday.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe commonly refer to that day as Good Friday. On that day an innocent man’s closest friends deserted Him, wicked religious leaders abused Him, and professional Roman torturers put Him to death. It was indeed a dark, black day for Jesus. He sadly acknowledged this fact to His persecutors: “this is your hour, and the power of \u003cem\u003edarkness\u003c\/em\u003e” (Luke 22:53).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Jesus, the deepest darkness on that black Friday was not the rejection of His friends. It wasn’t the physical pain of being whipped, beaten, pierced, and crucified. There was an even deeper, darker experience. The Bible tells us, “Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying… ‘God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?’” (Matthew 27:46).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat a heart-wrenching cry from the Son of God. We stand in silent wonder at the thought.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhat was happening to Jesus? What had he done to deserve this? What elicited this cry of agony to His Father?\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe return to a scene the evening before the crucifixion. Jesus was in a garden called Gethsemane. “And being in agony…. His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground” (Luke 22:44).  This is astounding! Jesus’ blood was being shed even before the arrest, torture, and execution began?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe fast-forward to the scene right after Jesus breathed His last breath on the cross. His body hung lifeless, although the others being crucified were still alive (see John 19:30-34). It normally took \u003cem\u003edays\u003c\/em\u003e to die on a cross. What killed Jesus so quickly?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus was suffering from an affliction worse than the most excruciating physical pain imaginable. We see it in Gethsemane, and we see it on the cross. The Bible says that God the Father “delivered Him up for us all” (Romans 8:32). Or in Jesus’ words, He felt completely “forsaken” by God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe human mind can’t fully grasp the seriousness of this. The most intimate union in the universe— the eternal unity between the Almighty Father and His Son—was being ripped apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImagine, for a moment, the person about whom you care most deeply. Now imagine the feeling that would seize you if that person were to forsake you completely. Maybe this has happened to you. Now multiply that horrific feeling \u003cem\u003einfinitely\u003c\/em\u003e (because of Jesus’ \u003cem\u003eeternal\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003einfinite \u003c\/em\u003eunion with His Father). That’s a glimpse into the emotional and psychological pain Jesus felt in these moments of darkness! By comparison, His physical wounds were almost nothing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Debt is Canceled!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRemember that Jesus “committed no sin” and was “without sin” (1 Peter 2:22; Hebrews 4:15). His life was dedicated solely to healing, teaching, and saving. He lived for others, not for Himself. He was totally “unblemished and spotless” (1 Peter 1:19, NASB).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYet this fully innocent, selfless person “bore \u003cu\u003eour\u003c\/u\u003e sins in His own body on the tree…” (1 Peter 2:24). “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:6).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s impossible to imagine! The guilt and shame for ALL the sins of EVERY person who ever lived, laid on one man? It’s inconceivable what He must have gone through on that dark day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy didn’t He just leave us to the consequences of our own sin? Hebrews 12:2 tells us that He “endured the cross” “for the joy that was set before Him.” What joy is this, exactly? “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, \u003cem\u003ethat he might bring us to God\u003c\/em\u003e\" (1 Peter 3:18, ESV). He chose to take our suffering because it brings \u003cu\u003eHim\u003c\/u\u003e joy to bring \u003cu\u003eus\u003c\/u\u003e to God. He endured the darkness of that first, very dark, “black” Friday for our eternal joy and salvation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause He loved \u003cem\u003eyou\u003c\/em\u003e so much, He went through this darkness. And that’s also why this day was so very, very \u003cem\u003egood\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImagine now that you have tens of thousands of dollars in credit card debt racked up through foolish Black Friday buying habits. You have no way to pay it off, and the interest only compounds. Then suddenly, somebody steps forward and takes all your debt on his own account. You are completely cleared of your growing mountain of debt. Imagine the feeling of freedom and gratitude!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn reality, an eternally greater debt has been paid. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23). This is the Black Friday deal!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBright Sunday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSunday morning, “when the \u003cem\u003esun\u003c\/em\u003e had risen,” some women went to Jesus’ tomb to anoint His body with spices (Mark 16:2). They saw two angels “in \u003cem\u003eshining\u003c\/em\u003e garments” (Luke 24:4) whose “appearance was like \u003cem\u003elightning\u003c\/em\u003e” (Matthew 28:3, ESV).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAre you catching the brightness of Sunday morning? These angels dispelled the darkness of Friday as they proclaimed history’s BRIGHTEST news ever. The \u003cem\u003eSon \u003c\/em\u003ewas risen! He had risen from the dead!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus then appeared to the women, to the disciples, and finally, to more than 500 eyewitnesses (see 1 Corinthians 15:6).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFriend, Jesus conquered death for you. Jesus lives forevermore. He is the eternal Friend of sinners. He is your glorified Lord of Lords, and our soon-coming Savior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow THAT is something worth waking up early for, investing our money in, talking about, thinking about…. You get the idea. Minus the frenzied screaming and pushing, let’s put it all on the line for Jesus who did so much for us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRemember: eternal life with Jesus is a gift infinitely greater than any Christmas gift. And it’s free. If we will confess our sins and repent, He will forgive us and cleanse us (1 John 1:9). Will you pray to Him now?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnless otherwise indicated, Scripture is taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked ESV are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture marked NASB is taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43952155132087,"sku":"BF","price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Black-Friday-cover-c3-1-e1604276664538.png?v=1732337314"},{"product_id":"israel-in-bible-prophecy","title":"Israel in Bible Prophecy","description":"\u003cp class=\"FirstParagraph\" align=\"center\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: center; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; color: #0070c0;\"\u003eIsrael in Bible Prophecy\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eDuring Operation Desert Storm, America and her allies defeated Saddam Hussein\u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003e by using\u003c\/span\u003e the brilliant strategy of diversion. The allies built up their forces just east of Iraq in the Persian Gulf. Saddam assumed an assault was coming from the east. But then the allies attacked from the west. The allies defeated Saddam by \u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003efooling him into looking in the wrong direction.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eCould a similar tactic be misleading millions today?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eThe nation of Israel may seem tiny in the midst of many Arab neighbors. But for countless Christians, it looms large. They believe Israel will be the center of action when biblical prophecies are fulfilled. Prophecy-minded pastors contend, “If you want to know where big events will happen before Jesus returns, fix your eyes on Jerusalem and the Jews!”\u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eNumberless books, online videos, websites, conference speakers, \u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003eseminary professors, \u003c\/span\u003eand radio\/television programs express similar views. Apparently, the ancient Jewish temple will be rebuilt. A mysterious evil person called Antichrist will then defile it. Finally, enraged nations under Antichrist's sway will engage in a bloody, Middle East battle. This battle, called Armageddon, will be against Jerusalem and the Jewish State.\u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eDoes the Bible really teach this?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" align=\"center\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: center; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; color: #0070c0;\"\u003eAbraham's Descendants\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eLet's begin to unravel this mystery. First, the Old Testament Scriptures refer to \"Israel\" as \"the seed of Abraham\" (\u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003eIsaiah 41:8\u003c\/span\u003e, KJV). Israelites were Abraham's descendants. God also made numerous promises to Abraham's seed that remain valid today.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eYet in the New Testament, a stunning and inspired twist occurs. \"Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made,\" Paul wrote to the Galatians (\u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e3:16\u003c\/span\u003e). Then, Paul emphasizes the singular word \u003ci\u003eSeed\u003c\/i\u003e. He writes, \"He does not say 'And to seeds,\" as of many, but as of one, \"And to your Seed.\" In other words, \"the Seed of Abraham\" is not\u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003e Abraham's many physical\u003c\/span\u003e descendants. Instead, \"the Seed\" is one Primary Descendant--the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul finishes his sentence this way: \"one..., \u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003ewho is Christ\u003c\/i\u003e.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eAccording to Paul, \u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003eGod's promises to Israel apply primarily to Jesus\u003c\/i\u003e. Then at the end of Galatians 3, Paul adds another unexpected twist:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0in 0in 0in .3in;\"\u003e\u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eThere is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. \u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003eAnd if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;\"\u003e (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; color: red;\"\u003eGalatians 3:28-29\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eNow, anyone who belongs to Jesus Christ is \"Abraham's seed.\" And that makes them an \"heir\" to the Old Testament promises God made to Israel!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" align=\"center\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: center; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" align=\"center\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: center; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; color: #0070c0;\"\u003eThe Book of Revelation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eThe Biblical book of Revelation is the greatest work on prophecy ever written. John, an elderly Jewish disciple of Jesus, wrote it. As one might expect, John wrote about Jerusalem throughout that book. He also included the holy temple, temple activities, and an end-time battle called Armageddon. But like Paul, John also inserted several unexpected twists. He \u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003ealways\u003c\/i\u003e focused on the heavenly Jerusalem, not the war-torn city on earth. He described a heavenly temple, not a rebuilt one on earth. Armageddon would be a global battle, not a Middle-East-centered conflict.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eSee for yourself:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0in 0in 0in .3in;\"\u003e\u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eThen I, John, saw the holy city, \u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003eNew Jerusalem\u003c\/b\u003e, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;\"\u003e (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; color: red;\"\u003eRevelation 21:2\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0in 0in 0in .3in;\"\u003e\u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eThen \u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003ethe temple of God was opened in heaven\u003c\/b\u003e, and \u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003ethe ark\u003c\/b\u003e of His covenant was seen in His temple. And there were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e(\u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003eRevelation 11:19\u003c\/span\u003e).\u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eNotice that the \"ark\" is inside the heavenly temple. In the Old Testament, the ark was a golden box that housed the Ten Commandments (see \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003eDeuteronomy 10:4-5\u003c\/span\u003e). \u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003eSignificantly,\u003c\/span\u003e after the ark is seen in the heavenly temple, a group of \"saints\" is pinpointed\u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003e \"who\u003c\/span\u003e keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus\" (\u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003eRevelation 14:12\u003c\/span\u003e).\u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eIn other words, the focus of Revelation is the New Jerusalem, a heavenly temple, a heavenly ark, the Ten Commandments, and a final group of saints who keep God's law by His grace. See \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003eRevelation 12:17; 14:12; chapters 14-16\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" align=\"center\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: center; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; color: #0070c0;\"\u003eArmageddon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eThe word \u003ci\u003eArmageddon\u003c\/i\u003e appears only once in the Bible--in \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003eRevelation 16:16\u003c\/span\u003e. But when we examine its context, there is no mention of Israel, Jerusalem, or Jews. Instead, the context reveals a heavenly temple. It shows a global, cataclysmic showdown between God and \"Babylon.\"  In \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003eRevelation 16:14-16\u003c\/span\u003e, John describes how earth's leaders gather together at Armageddon. Notice what immediately follows:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0in 0in 0in .3in;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0in 0in 0in .3in;\"\u003e\u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eThen the seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came out of \u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003ethe temple of heaven\u003c\/b\u003e, from the throne, saying, \"It is done!\" And there were noises and thunderings and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such a mighty and great earthquake as had not occurred since men were on the earth. Now the great city was divided into three parts, and \u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003ethe cities of the nations fell\u003c\/b\u003e. And \u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003egreat Babylon\u003c\/b\u003e was remembered before God, to give her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath. \u003cb style=\"mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;\"\u003eThen every island fled away, and the mountains were not found\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;\"\u003e (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; color: red;\"\u003eRevelation 16:17-20\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eBabylon (see also \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003eRevelation 14:8; 17:5; 18:2-4; 18:23\u003c\/span\u003e) represents various religious organizations. These groups, led by Satan, are now deceiving humanity. On God's side are His saints. These saints are Abraham's spiritual descendants composed of Jewish and Gentile believers in Jesus Christ. They \"keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus\"(\u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003eRevelation 14:12\u003c\/span\u003e). In these end times, Jesus is acting as our great High Priest in His heavenly temple. He is seeking to prepare His people for Armageddon and for His soon return (see \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003eHebrews 8:1-2; Revelation 11:19; 12:17; 14:12; 15:5; 16:1; 16:15-17\u003c\/span\u003e). \u003ci style=\"mso-bidi-font-style: normal;\"\u003eThis is the true focus of Bible prophecy and the book of Revelation.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" align=\"center\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: center; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; color: #0070c0;\"\u003eLook to Jesus \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eIn these last days, Satan is using the same strategy that tricked Saddam Hussein. As Biblical signs thicken around us, people everywhere are seeking information about the end times. Satan is deceiving millions by focusing their attention on the Middle East, Jerusalem, and the Jews. In so doing, he is diverting inquiring minds from the New Jerusalem (our heavenly home). He's distracting them from our great High Priest who ministers His blood for us in His heavenly temple. He's redirecting them from the importance of obeying the Ten Commandments in preparation for Christ's soon return. Babylon, which means confusion, is Satan's agency spearheading this diversion.\u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eAs planet Earth rushes toward Armageddon, our focus should be \"looking to Jesus\" (\u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003eHebrews 12:2\u003c\/span\u003e), not the Jews. Jesus is in His heavenly temple. He loves us. His blood dripped from His battered body for each of us when He died \u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003efor our sins \u003c\/span\u003eon the cross. Now, in His heavenly temple, He offers us full forgiveness of our sins. He extends His purifying grace to enable us to keep the Ten Commandments now nestled inside the heavenly ark.\u003cspan style=\"color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .3in; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eDon't let Lucifer divert you from your loving Savior and from God's truth. Choose Jesus today! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e---\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 125%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif;\"\u003eFor resources and more information on this topic, visit glowonline.org\/israel.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 125%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin;\"\u003eUnless otherwise indicated, Scripture is taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; mso-pagination: none; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 125%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin;\"\u003eScriptures marked KJV are taken from the King James Version.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoBodyText\" style=\"margin: 0in; text-align: justify; line-height: 125%;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Giving Light to Our World","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47297835008183,"sku":null,"price":6.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0631\/6553\/0295\/files\/Israel-Cover-web.jpg?v=1775149360"}],"url":"https:\/\/glowcentral.org\/collections\/bible-teachings.oembed","provider":"Giving Light to Our World","version":"1.0","type":"link"}