God Blog

Approaching God One Thought At A Time

Separate text from context and all that remains is con.
- Steven Erikson

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Context Then Content

The Bible is many things too many people. And rightly so. In the Bible alone, religion and science reach their zenith. As do every other genre. From action and adventure, to crime and mystery. From thriller and occult, to fantasy and science fiction. Each on a global and eternal scale!  Yet, even among the Bible's adherents, surprisingly few take the whole Bible seriously. Many are too busy to care. Others feel guilty. Many verses are too violent. Others can be offensive. Some passages seem mythological. Others beyond the realm of sci-fi. All such objections deserve answers.

Misinterpreting, or even missing the context of Scripture altogether, accounts for a myriad of unnecessary confusion and misunderstanding. Thankfully, studious and honest layman level Bible Study reveals conflict theology as the codex and cypher best unlocking Scripture's rich content.

Ask me, and I will tell you things that you don’t know and can’t find out.


- Jeremiah 33:3 CEV



Accurately combining the context and content of Scripture generates two fundamental tenants. Both as crucial as they are commonly ignored. The first:
Creation is at war. The second: Life is a test.

1. Creation Is At War: Careful Scriptural archeology and Biblical forensics reveals much. By stitching scores of passages together, a theological theme emerges revealing Who created the multiverse and why. The truth about Lucifer's Rebellion and how it effects Heaven and Earth. How the trial in Eternity's Supreme Court overflows into the affairs of men.

It can’t be overstated that according to the context of Scripturespiritual conflict is not a mythical analogy, but rather eternity’s realityIn fact, in a variety of ways, a myriad of Biblical passages attest to the unpleasant fact that all creation is at war with (alongside or against) God. There is no neutral territory.


Down through millennia Scripture continues to whisper and shout there is far more going on than is immediately apparent. This is why the Bible warns that God’s promise of reward is reserved for those diligently, rather than casually, seeking Him. With Hell to loose and Heaven to gain, could even Omnity provide greater motivation? Primary reasons for both Old Testament narratives and the New Testament's call to arms.

Yet, for a 
variety of reasons, the overwhelming vast majority of modern Christians refuse to accept Biblical insight and warning. Nevertheless, comprehension of the context of Scripture is vital to understanding its content. While no longer in vogue, Scripture's context is most certainly one of warfare theology. Like the whodunnit story of Job, considered by many to be the oldest Book of the Bible and perhaps its key codex, conflict between God the "Lord of Hosts" (angel armies) and Satan the "prince of the power of the air" (god of this world), provides the backdrop to Job's story. And much, if not all, the entire Old and New Testaments. As exemplified in a couple of familiar passages referencing conflict with the fallen angelic:

  • "When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities [those supernatural forces of evil operating against us], He made a public example of them [exhibiting them as captives in His triumphal procession], having triumphed over them through the cross." Colossians 2:15 AMP

  • " Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous. He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil." 1 John 3:7-8 NKJV 
Such verses and scores of other conflict Scriptures suggest the content of Scripture can only be fully understood by embracing the Bible's overarching context. A task for which modern Christianity, not to mention the developed world, are ill equipped. Not surprising when the the vast majority of Christians are not only prayerless (stopping to pray less than 5-10 minutes a day) but Biblically illiterate (unable to quote, much less rightly understand and apply even 5-10 verses in a row). 

2. Life Is A Test: For some, the ancient adage, "Life's a test" is more obvious than for others. Nevertheless, this universal truth is Scriptural in nature. Even for those fortunate enough to live in the modern world, were life’s battlefield may seem far removed. With technological advances all but conquering basic challenges, we savor the ease of victory. We not only enjoy, but daily take for granted, an incredible array of blessings.

On the flip side, Jesus warned, "From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked." An even more crucial concern with spiritual conflict at an all time high. Subtle as it is certain, challenges to Christianity abound. While woefully one-sided, the Church is at war. From ubiquitous levels of demonic temptation and deception, to devilish apathy and inverted morality. Both inside and outside the camp. An ever increasing number of serious threats are creating a culture of billions of spiritual refugees. With far more on the way.

The New Testament succinctly warns we will each give account of all we've done or failed to doevery idle word and perhaps our every thought. Such exacting standards, with no less than Heaven and Hell at stake, provide compelling evidence of an examination with everlasting consequence.

Like many final exams, Scripture explains eternity's test has several components. When it comes to 
salvation, Christ and His apostles placed their greatest emphasis on living faith. The only two times Jesus is directly asked how to get to Heaven, the Good Samaritan and the Rich Young Ruler, He explains the best way to love God is by caring for the poor and needy. The same holds true in regards to the Sheep and Goats, as well as the Rich Man and Lazarus which provides the only Biblically recorded conversation between humans in the afterlife!

Conflict theology is a primary explanation for God's gracious compassion in emphasizing loving our neighbor, particularly the deprived, above all else. More than any, Omnity is aware Earth's not only a spiritually cosmic war zone, but an occupied planet with most of its citizenry held captive by the god of this age to do his will.

This does not bold well for a world of have and have not's. Against which coming
judgment hardly needs to be Divine. Global specters of violence and war, abuse and slavery, immorality and abortion, poverty and economic inequalityclimate change and nuclear holocaust present current and future global threats. As do viral pandemic and artificial intelligencecyber tech and bioterrorism issues. Many reseting the 2020 Doomsday Clock of Atomic Scientists to 100 seconds to midnight. Closer than ever before.

Additional exam points may well be rewarded for our level of care and attention to life's great questions. As scored by eternity's perspective. How carefully have we invested the perviously undreamed of blessings of modern life? Have we correctly discerned the reasonableness of faith? Particularly when it comes to life's ultimate concerns? To what degree do we believe that God is and a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him? How well do we appreciate all we've been given, including the promise and potential of Christianity? Are we earnest in sorting through the many Christ's to find the One true? Have we studied enough to recognize the correct version of the Gospel? In matters of following Christ, are we worldly and lukewarm or sanctified and radically obedient?

An essential element of faith's test is to what degree we appropriately responded to the ramifications of conflict theology. If Christianity’s a cruise ship, sailing merrily from here to Heaven, then certainly Christ's costly atonement is sufficient. The cross of Christ is indeed all anyone could ever need. If however, Heaven and Earth are currently at war with fallen angels and devils, Christianity is a battleship and we must follow our Commander and Chief's example and directives by daily shouldering our own.

Even if Christianity could be likened to a pleasure cruise, given Churchianity’s collision course with so many modern temptations and deceptions, up to an including immorality and the blood red mountainous iceberg of abortion, in certain respects might even many well intended ministries be reduced to simply arranging deck chairs on the Titanic?

So is Christianity a cruise or gunship? We must decide. And do so quickly and carefully. Military directives and drills, cramped quarters and sea rations, would be absurd on a pleasure cruise. So too, civilian itineraries and activities, opulent suites and sumptuous banquets, would be anathema during a time of war.  

The Bible's full of passages detailing the havoc caused by the great and fallen Archangel once called Lucifer or in Hebrew הילל בן־שׁחר Helel Ben-Shachar. Like the gravitational force of dark matter and energy, the effects of his ancient angelic rebellion and current campaign of temptation and terrorencompass the entire Earth.

There are hundreds of Bible verses directly and indirectly referencing Satan's significance. Specific passages in the New King James Version include the usage of the name Lucifer (1), Satan (54), Devil (34), Dragon (13) and Evil One (5). Additionally, Scripture's use of words such as temptation (13), deception (6), pain (43), death (428), evil (491) and sin (1153) can be indirectly attributed to the architect of disobedience.

Previous generations understood the serious nature of the spiritual war in which we are engulfed. Its reality filled their prayers and even worship. Reflecting the difficulties of their day, traditional hymns were infused with Scripture. Filled with inspiring lyrics of loyalty and camaraderie, their melodies were meant to encourage and provide solace in the face of hardship. Like bugle calls to reveille, such battle songs of heaven's republic served as constant reminders of the blessed hope the faithful have in God.

Today, not so much. Seeker friendly and inappropriately intimate worship has largely replaced the kinds of beloved hymns of deliverance once sung around the world. Such as the great Protestant reformer Martin Luther's A Mighty Fortress Is Our God:

A mighty Fortress is our God, A Bulwark never failing;
Our Helper He amid the flood Of mortal ills prevailing:
For still our
ancient foe Doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great, And, armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal
.

Did we in our own strength confide, Our striving would be losing;
Were not the right Man on our side, The Man of God's own choosing:
Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;
Lord Sabaoth His Name, From age to age the same,
And He must win the battle.

And though this world,
with devils filled, Should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us:
The
Prince of Darkness grim, We tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure, For lo! his doom is sure,
One little word shall fell him.

That word above all earthly powers, No thanks to them, abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours Through Him who with us sideth:
Let goods and kindred go, This mortal life also;
The body they may kill: God's truth abideth still,
His Kingdom is forever
.

"Let goods and kindred go, This mortal life also; The body they may kill…" Tall order for anyone in any generation. Much less the vast majority of modern Christians which again are not only prayerless (stopping to pray less than 5-10 minutes a day) but Biblically illiterate (unable to quote, much less rightly understand and apply even 5-10 verses in a row).  Here, and elsewhere, it's clear our spiritual forefathers understood the difference between glorification of the Devil, verse the need to reveal his presence and the peril around us. Out of spiritual insight into our situation, and respect for the authority of God's Word, they were careful to neither ignore nor revile angelic majesties. Both common and costly mistakes against which Scripture warns. A particularly important practice when preparing to survive and thrive in the face of the kind of spiritual warfare conflict theology reveals.

The Bible explains that both personally, and as a species, mankind faces the deadly foe of sin on three fronts. Sin within, resulting from individual and inherited fallen natures. Sin above, in the form of devilish and demonic temptation and deception. And Sin about, the collective and cumulative effect of sin within and above. In regards to sin from above, the New Testament is quite adamant:

  • "And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels." Ephesians 6:10-12 MSG

  • "Daring, self-willed, they do not tremble when they revile angelic majesties, whereas angels who are greater in might and power do not bring a reviling judgment against them before the Lord. But these, like unreasoning animals, born as creatures of instinct to be captured and killed, reviling where they have no knowledge, will in the destruction of those creatures also be destroyed." 2 Peter 2:10-12 NASB

  • "Yet Michael, one of the mightiest of the angels, when he was arguing with Satan about Moses’ body, did not dare to accuse even Satan, or jeer at him, but simply said, “The Lord rebuke you.” But these men mock and curse at anything they do not understand, and like animals, they do whatever they feel like, thereby ruining their souls." Jude 1:9-10 TLB 




Eyes, Ears and Hearts

A lack of appreciation of the Biblical account of cosmic spiritual warfare goes a long way in explaining why hundreds of thousands of well educated clergy and laity alike fail the test of "accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth." As stated, there are extreme differences between the expectations of pleasure cruise passengers and active battleship sailors.

All the more so given the universal truth that we are all
telling ourselves a story. The first question is, with so many competing narratives vying for our attention, is there evidence the Bible’s authoritative? And the second, how similar is our story to that of Scripture?

Humanity's problem is primarily one of perspective. From our earthly vantage point, it's astonishingly easy to adopt an Anthropocentric rather than Theocentric world view. Millions, if not billions, of Christians recognize that God, rather than mankind, is the ultimate focal point of existence. At least up to a point. While a correct mindset, this worldview often fails to translate into the kind of living faith and radical discipleship the Bible requires. Hence the worldliness running rampant within modern Christianity. Not to mention the loss of Kingdom power, evidenced through the scarcity of the genuine fruit and gifts of the Spirit.

While more subtle, there is a similar inconvenient truth few modern believers care to acknowledge. A crucial component to understanding the context, and thus content, of not only Scripture but temporal and eternal existence.
During this current epoch of eternity, angels are far nearer the center of Heaven's reality and concern than mankind.

Simply put,
it's not really about us. Not yet.

The evidence of this actuality is demonstrated by the very stars in the sky. A source of constant assistance and wonder, for millennia they've proved both useful and inspiring. From navigation and exploration assistance to a twinkling and romantic backdrop for lovers.
Yet science reveals that while helpful and appropriate from our current reference point, simplistic earthy perspectives disguises their true power and stature, age and glory.

So too, mortal and earthly life hardly holds a candle to the immortal and eternal.

Take a moment to consider how and by Whom angels were created. Ponder the extraordinary nature implicit in their quality of existence and inconceivable life spans. Imagine the vast knowledge and stunning society they've enjoyed for ages beyond time. By comparison the entire human race was born yesterday and dies tomorrow. Mankind is literally little more than an afterthought.

In Heaven life must be shared in ways impossible elsewhere. Forever unfolding in an eternal now experienced without hinderance or interruption. By and for everyone. Individually and corporately. Communally, the light of eternal life must fill all in all. Time casts no dark shadows. Its populace knows no emptiness or isolation. No misunderstanding or betrayal. No pain of separation or death. Such perfect community must serve to strengthen personal identity. Free of fear and disappointment, individuals and relationships blossom under an eternal springtime sun, not just here and there but everywhere and with everyone.

E
ven so Heaven is under siege, its perfection marred since Lucifer’s Insurrection. Unparalleled bliss mingles with devilish disfunction as its citizenry rejoice, enjoying God and everything good, while grieving over the fall of perhaps billions of their brethren. And over their continued presence as well. To its citizens dismay, darkened spirits now share its transparent streets of gold and hallowed sites with their faithful, unfallen counterparts, as well as with a growing community of Earth’s redeemed.

Given Scripture's heavenly narrative, and in keeping with Job's scenario, could the human race be immersed in Heaven's whodunnit play? An eternal wager comprising the greatest story never told. Might mankind's very existence be a result of angelic conflict theology?

If so, few appreciate the astounding truth.
Also three assertions seem necessary. First, even among the angels, Omnity must conceal the full extent of Their power and glory. Second, there had never before been a revolt. Third, in light of the combined might and wisdom of Lucifer and his angels, the rebellion had reason to believe they could in some way win.

As for God, whatever other reasons the Trinity had for delaying sentencing, one seems certain. Heaven had never seen its Creator’s wrath. Therefore, prior to excising the cancer of so great an angelic rebellion, Omnity would first administer Divine anesthesia. Before enacting so awful a judgment against perhaps billions of unimaginably glorious and ancient beings, God would first dare an even more awe-full display of inconceivable mercy.

For such an act, Earth would provide a proving ground. Humanity the supporting cast. And God would become not only
man, but sin:

  • "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." 2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV
And in doing so, Christ not only provided glorious redemption for mankind, but reassured the angelic faithful of God's meekness and mercy, love and faithfulness, wisdom and authority in preparation for the surgical removal of perhaps a third of Heaven's glorious and ancient fallen angelic population:

  • "He has forgiven you all your sins: Christ has utterly wiped out the damning evidence of broken laws and commandments which always hung over our heads, and has completely annulled it by nailing it over his own head on the cross. And then having drawn the sting of all the powers ranged against us, he exposed them, shattered, empty and defeated, in his final glorious triumphant act!" Colossians 2:17-19 PHILLIPS
Scripture reveals, "For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil." How? By His inconceivable incarnation and lowly birth, humble family and life, meek ministry and miracles, painful crucifixion and atonement, unprecedented resurrection and ascension, heavenly intercession and Second Advent:

  • “They wondered what the Spirit of Christ within them was talking about, for he told them to write down the events which, since then, have happened to Christ: his suffering, and his great glory afterwards. And they wondered when and to whom all this would happen. They were finally told that these things would not occur during their lifetime, but long years later, during yours. And now at last this Good News has been plainly announced to all of us. It was preached to us in the power of the same heaven-sent Holy Spirit who spoke to them; and it is all so strange and wonderful that even the angels in heaven would give a great deal to know more about it. 1 Peter 1:11-12 Living Bible - Emphasis QC’s
Mankind is surely a recent development on eternity's stage. Ending Satan's angelic rebellion is certainly a, if not the, primary purpose of Christ incarnation. Nevertheless, mankind yet holds an exceptional place in the elaborate plan of redemption. One worthy of a moments pause before rejecting Humanity’s downgrade from the imagined focal point. While far from anthropocentric, our place in Omnity’s plan is astounding. Through Christ's costly atonement, fully redeemed mankind shall be gloriously transfigured!

  • "But friends, that’s exactly who we are: children of God. And that’s only the beginning. Who knows how we’ll end up! What we know is that when Christ is openly revealed, we’ll see him—and in seeing him, become like him. All of us who look forward to his Coming stay ready, with the glistening purity of Jesus’ life as a model for our own." 1 John 3:2-3 MSG
  • "For our earthly bodies, the ones we have now that can die, must be transformed into heavenly bodies that cannot perish but will live forever. When this happens, then at last this Scripture will come true—“Death is swallowed up in victory.” O death, where then your victory? Where then your sting? For sin—the sting that causes death—will all be gone; and the law, which reveals our sins, will no longer be our judge.”"1 Corinthians 15:53-56 TLB
For Christ's sake, those worthy of such eternal transformation shall find themselves far above not only the pain and fear of mortality, but the entire creation including all angelic power and authority:

  • "Don’t you know that someday we Christians are going to judge and govern the world? So why can’t you decide even these little things among yourselves? Don’t you realize that we Christians will judge and reward the very angels in heaven? So you should be able to decide your problems down here on earth easily enough." 1 Corinthians 6:2-3 TLB
  • "Are not all the angels ministering spirits sent out [by God] to serve (accompany, protect) those who will inherit salvation? [Of course they are!]" Hebrews 1:14 AMP
  • "To everyone who overcomes—who to the very end keeps on doing things that please me—I will give power over the nations. You will rule them with a rod of iron just as my Father gave me the authority to rule them; they will be shattered like a pot of clay that is broken into tiny pieces. And I will give you the Morning Star!  “Let all who can hear listen to what the Spirit says to the churches.” Revelation 2:26-29 TLB
Some suggest the promised “Morning Star” is in reference to Lucifer’s vacated privileged position as the arch angel of worship. Regardless, Paul makes it clear that inconceivable glory awaits those pleasing our Creator and Savior:

  • “That is what is meant by the Scriptures which say that no mere man has ever seen, heard, or even imagined what wonderful things God has ready for those who love the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 TLB
Such wonderful passages continue to be comfort believers globally. The problem arises when underestimating the Enemy of our souls, and overestimating our commitment to Christ. Millions if not billions have and continue to mistake presumption for faith, assumed salvation for eternal security and exchange worldliness for righteousness.

Most are unfamiliar with 
repentive and honest Bible study and interpretation. Particularly in regards to the rules of emphasis and inference. Not to mention overlooking or undervaluing the context of conflict theology, an essential element in comprehending Scriptures vast content.

Even those discerning some or much of the above often cannot see certain crucial aspects of the forest for the trees. For example, certain vital concerns, such as the impact of abortion on the Church and the importance of being authentically pro-life remain hidden in blindspots. Consider the somewhat famous end time book, "The Harbinger… The Ancient Mystery that holds the Secret of America's Future." As is the case with so many recent and influential Christian books, the author Jonathan Cahn failed to mention the word "abortion" a single time. Even given the total of over a billion clinical and contraceptive abortions represents 4-8 times the entire Earth's population in Christ's day. The same Christ who repeatedly warned in such crucial teachings as the Sheep and Goats and Good SamaritanRich Man and Lazarus and Rich Young Ruler, that each of our eternal destiny's will be largely determined by what we did and didn't do to and for His "least brothers."

Late to the pro-life party, this same Jonathan Cahn recently introduced "The Return" with a partial focus on abortion while calling for a Sacred Assembly to address the course of America and the world. His short introductory video is well made and contains many undeniable truths. Nevertheless, several serious errors remain. Both in kind and degree.

We do well the heed the challenge of becoming skillful and adept 
Prophetic Christians. Correctly discerning when, where and who we are in light of what God has, is and is about to do. At least some fraction of Prophetic Christians must come to our senses, face the truth of our critical situation, and take the difficult steps prescribed in James 4.

Prophetic Christians are exceptionally honest and studious Bible students and intercessors, grasping much of both the context and content of Scripture. Such men and women seek God in faith, reasoning that He's said what He means and means what He's said. They're persuaded "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever." Both in His mercy and love, as well as harsh words and judgment of His church. Possessed of deep and abiding repentance, they labor for revival in the hope and fear of God. Understanding both the love and "terror of the Lord" they endeavor to persuade others to choose eternal life rather than death. Knowing they too are sinners, they treat others as they would be treated: firm, fair, factual and friendly. They compel the lost, including apathetic and disobedient Christians, to come into the Kingdom by first speaking the truth in love. Should compassion fail, they spend themselves and their lives trying to pull lost humanity from the fire.

The Bible repeatedly references the sad fact that God's own people often lack discernment and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Without spiritual eyes and ears, hearts and minds to accurately comprehend and appropriately respond, we are easily deceived in both doctrine and lifestyle. Hundreds of Christian sects and denominations, each promoting various Christs and versions of the gospel, testify to our Enemy's cunning. If Satan could influence perhaps a third of Heaven's ancient, holy and glorious angles to rebel, mankind presents little challenge.

And if Churchianity's all over the board in regard to the Bible's major themes, what of more subtle issues? Up to and including accurately discerning the times and seasons in which we live? Intentionally or unintentionally, modern Christianity has a history of all but upending the obvious meaning of Scripture's most important meta messages.

When it comes to being off page, Christ leveled a terrible indictment against the rebellion and hypocrisy of the people of God in His day:


  • "You’re hopeless! You build tombs for the prophets your ancestors killed. The tombs you build are monuments to your murdering ancestors more than to the murdered prophets. That accounts for God’s Wisdom saying, ‘I will send them prophets and apostles, but they’ll kill them and run them off.’ What it means is that every drop of righteous blood ever spilled from the time earth began until now, from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah, who was struck down between altar and sanctuary, is on your heads. Yes, it’s on the bill of this generation and this generation will pay." Luke 11:47-51
Prophetic Christians do well to notice that the wording of Christ's dire warning introduces the principle of generational judgment. Such dreadful pronouncements are intended to put inattentive people groups and sinful societies on public notice.

  • " Next Jesus let fly on the cities where he had worked the hardest but whose people had responded the least, shrugging their shoulders and going their own way. “Doom to you, Chorazin! Doom, Bethsaida! If Tyre and Sidon had seen half of the powerful miracles you have seen, they would have been on their knees in a minute. At Judgment Day they’ll get off easy compared to you. And Capernaum! With all your peacock strutting, you are going to end up in the abyss. If the people of Sodom had had your chances, the city would still be around. At Judgment Day they’ll get off easy compared to you.” Matthew 11:20-24 MSG
Here again we see that Scripture, and life, are indeed a tests generating the gravest of results. Not merely for the Jews, who literally wrote the Book used in eternity's open book test, but by extension humanity itself. This holds doubly true for modern Christianity, on which the end of the age has come. A principle largely overlooked yet frequently reinforce by Scripture:

  • "These are all warning markers—danger!—in our history books, written down so that we don’t repeat their mistakes. Our positions in the story are parallel—they at the beginning, we at the end—and we are just as capable of messing it up as they were. Don’t be so naive and self-confident. You’re not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else…"  1 Corinthians 10:11-12 MSG

  • "Write to Laodicea, to the Angel of the church. God’s Yes, the Faithful and Accurate Witness, the First of God’s creation, says: "I know you inside and out, and find little to my liking. You’re not cold, you’re not hot—far better to be either cold or hot! You’re stale. You’re stagnant. You make me want to vomit. You brag, ‘I’m rich, I’ve got it made, I need nothing from anyone,’ oblivious that in fact you’re a pitiful, blind beggar, threadbare and homeless. Here’s what I want you to do: Buy your gold from me, gold that’s been through the refiner’s fire. Then you’ll be rich. Buy your clothes from me, clothes designed in Heaven. You’ve gone around half-naked long enough. And buy medicine for your eyes from me so you can see, really see." Revelation 3:14-18 MSG
Christ's chastisement of Laodicea is concerning and telling for a variety of reason. Earning the worst report card of the seven churches and/or church ages, Laodicea alone receives no compliment. Jesus' complaints however are many and cause for alarm. Up to and including His threat to vomit them out of the body of Christ for forbidden levels of worldliness and self deception. Serious charges, more indicative of modern Christianity than any other church age throughout history.

Laodiceans of all times and seasons clearly fail to understand spiritual warfare. Only a civilian would dare brag, "I'm rich, I’ve got it made, I need nothing from anyone…" during the battles and shortages of cosmic spiritual war. Particularly when in actuality they were a, "pitiful, blind beggar, threadbare and homeless…" A war, by the way, about to increase exponentially. Overrunning the entire earth. Ruining the whole planet.



Patriarch of Spiritual Warfare

While no longer in vogue, Scripture's context is most certainly one of Conflict Theology. Like the whodunnit story of Job, considered by many to be the oldest Book of the Bible and perhaps its key codex, conflict between God the "Lord of Hosts" (angel armies) and Satan the "prince and power of the air" (god of this world), provides the backdrop to Job's story. And much, if not all, the entire Old and New Testaments.

For this and a plethora of reasons, the content of Scripture can only be fully understood by embracing the Bible's overarching context. This crucial concern is developed more fully in all of Quantum Christianity’s books series, including Conflict Theology and Eternity…The Wager (see excerpts Brief History of Eternity and Satan's Accusation).
For an excellent example of previous generation's handling of this topic see the
Protestant Reformer Martin Luther's hymnal lyrics of "A Might Fortress Is Our God." 
The Bible explains that both personally, and as a species, mankind faces the deadly foe of
sin on three fronts.

  1. Sin within, resulting from individual and inherited fallen natures. 
  2. Sin above, in the form of devilish and demonic temptation and deception.
  3. And Sin about, the collective and cumulative effect of sin within and above.

In regards to sin from above, the New Testament is quite adamant:

  • "And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels." Ephesians 6:10-12 MSG
Interestingly, when it comes to a Scripture reveal as to what God wants most from each and everyone, what many believe to be the Bible's first story may have the last word. In fact, given Conflict Theology is Scripture's very context, it's perfectly fitting that Job’s behind the scenes bet between God and Satan appears to be not only the oldest Book of the Bible, but its codex.

To set up this incredible narrative, keep in mind that by definition God alone possess 
Omnity: Eternal Self Existance (causeless first cause), Omniscience (all knowing), Omnipresence (present everywhere), Omnipotence (all powerful) and Immutability (unchanging). God clearly knows the end from the beginning. Thus by flaunting Job in Satan's face, God was initiating all that was to follow.

The primary reason for the 
Devil's requesting and receiving permission to target and destroy all that was dear to Job was his righteousness. For which all Job's possessions would be stolen or destroyed and all the lives of his children forfeit. Furthermore, his immediate reward for standing up against Satan's onslaught would be debilitating disease engulfing his entire body head to toe. So devastating was Job's dreadful state, that his so called three false friends would fast without speaking for seven days and nights in mourning. An act of compassion unique in all of Scripture.

The Book of Job contains a treasure trove of revelation in regards to not only the
human condition and spiritual warfare, but a variety of subjects, from an insightful creation account to persevering faith.

Several quotes have become foundation to the belief of billions. A few of the most famous include:

  • “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” - Job 1:21

  • “His wife said to him, “Are you still maintaining your integrity? Curse God and die!” He replied, “You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” In all this, Job did not sin in what he said.” - Job 2:9-10

  • “What I feared has come upon me; what I dreaded has happened to me.” - Job 3:25

  • “Behold, you have instructed many, and you have strengthened the weak hands. Your words have upheld him who was stumbling, and you have made firm the feeble knees.” - Job 4:3-4

  • “As for me, I would seek God, and to God would I commit my cause, who does great things and unsearchable, marvelous things without number.” - Job 5:8-9

  • “Behold, blessed is the one whom God reproves, therefore despise not the discipline of the Almighty. For he wounds, but he binds up, he shatters, but his hands heal.” - Job 5:17

  • “Why are people so important to you? Why pay attention to what they do?” - Job 7:17

  • “Even though He kills me; I will hope in Him.” - Job 13:15

  • “How I wish that someone would remember my words and record them in a book!” - Job 19:23

  • I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last He will stand upon the earth.” - Job 19:25

  • “Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.” - Job 28:28

All the above verses merit reflection, particularly in light of the rest of the Bible they introduce. Consider, “Even though He kills me; I will hope in Him.” The King James Version renders Job’s declaration, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him.”

The Book of Job affords humanity with a behind the scenes glimpse of the unfolding of a
heavenly cosmic drama. Without such perspective, Job withstands Satan’s offensive by faith alone, without the benefits modern Christianity daily takes for granted. Including the inconceivable incarnation and costly atonement of Christ, the coming and fullness of the Holy Spirit, the complete cannon of Scripture, as wells as a wealth of accomplishments and spiritual commentary provided by 2,000 years of church history. Most of which is instantaneously available in innumerable forms through apps and on the net. Not to mention our technological blessings, exceeding the prayers and expectations of all previous generations!

Never before has a generation been entrusted with so much.
And thus all the more accountable.

Job, with comparatively so little at hand, stands firm in faith regardless of the loss, and thus the cost, to himself and all he loves. Through him, from the Bible’s oldest words, Scripture reassures all mankind in our
suffering and/or wrestling with a variety of issues with God. From loneliness and depression to the bitterness of loss. From illness and disease to financial distress. From the apparent silence and distance of God to questioning His goodness.

Sadly, many of these lessons are lost on mankind, and even modern Christianity. Nevertheless, they remain foundational for Prophetic Christians. All the more during comfortable seasons of
spiritual discipline in regards to greater levels of obedience and discipleship.

After chapters of back and forth discourse and argument, Job was granted the audience with God he all but demanded. During which Job received no explanation or apology. Instead, by way of rebuke, God partially revealed His majesty, to which Job replied:

  • "I’m convinced: You can do anything and everything. Nothing and no one can upset your plans. You asked, ‘Who is this muddying the water, ignorantly confusing the issue, second-guessing my purposes?’ I admit it. I was the one. I babbled on about things far beyond me, made small talk about wonders way over my head. You told me, ‘Listen, and let me do the talking. Let me ask the questions. You give the answers.’ I admit I once lived by rumors of you; now I have it all firsthand—from my own eyes and ears! I’m sorry—forgive me. I’ll never do that again, I promise!" Job 42:1-6 MSG
Scarcely surviving the scathing interview, Job later receives far more in his later life, which lasted another 140 years, than all that which was taken, including seven sons and three of the world's most gorgeous daughters.

Did this somehow make up for the children and workers destroyed by Satan's assault, of which God had precise foreknowledge? Perhaps not. But a further gift Job received might.

Without his ordeal, Job would likely have lived a long and healthy, happy and wealthy life. With none the wiser. Rather, through his severe testing and trial, via 
God and Satan's wager, he became the Patriarch of Patience and Suffering for all mankind. And particularly for the household of faith.

His story also pulls back eternity's curtain, plainly revealing a level of personal spiritual conflict unprecedented in human history! An ultimate example of Peter's warning and encouragement to embrace and 
endure discipline and/or persecution: "If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the ungodly and sinner appear?"


Prophetic Christians

The challenges arrayed against perceptively perceiving spiritual truth have never been greater. As noted, Prophetic Christians are serious Bible students and intercessors, believers who seek God in faith confident that He's said what He means and means what He's said. They're persuaded Jesus is "the same yesterday, and today, and forever."  Possessed of deep and abiding repentance, they labor for revival in the hope and fear of God.

Understanding both the love and terror of the Lord they endeavor to "persuade men" to choose eternal life rather than death. Knowing they too are sinners, they treat others as they would be treated: firm, fair, factual and friendly. They compel the lost, including apathetic and disobedient Christians within Churchianity, to come into the Kingdom by first speaking the truth in love. Should compassion fail, they spend themselves and their lives trying to pull lost humanity from "the fire."

As noted, because Conflict Theology is the very context or metamessage of Scripture, it follows that both aspects of Christian discipline, correction and training, are most viable in regards to militarized spirituality. That is, from the perspective of Kingdom Citizen Soldiers. Understanding Earth is a besieged and enemy occupied war zone, lets examine a few New Testament passages that make little to no sense from any other standpoint.

For example, initially addressing 1st century persecuted Christians, Peter imparts the following directives:

  • "Therefore, since Christ suffered in the flesh [and died for us], arm yourselves [like warriors] with the same purpose [being willing to suffer for doing what is right and pleasing God]because whoever has suffered in the flesh [being like-minded with Christ] is done with [intentional] sin [having stopped pleasing the world], so that he can no longer spend the rest of his natural life living for human appetites and desires, but [lives] for the will and purpose of God." 1 Peter 4:1-2 AMP

  • "The end and culmination of all things is nearTherefore, be sound-minded and self-controlled for the purpose of prayer [staying balanced and focused on the things of God so that your communication will be clear, reasonable, specific and pleasing to Him.]" 1Peter 4:7 AMP

What's odd about these verses is their original audience. Frequently persecuted and even martyred Christians are hardly involved in the "appetites and desires” of immorality and obvious worldliness. Sadly, the same can not be said for modern Christianity.

Nor does one image even subtle forms of 
temptation and deception taking hold of such radical disciples who were extricated from society, often giving up their wealth and possessions, family and lives, for the cause of Christ:

  • "But remember the earlier days, when, after being [spiritually] enlightened, you [patiently] endured a great conflict of sufferings, sometimes by being made a spectacle, publicly exposed to insults and distress, and sometimes by becoming companions with those who were so treatedFor you showed sympathy and deep concern for those who were imprisoned, and you joyfully accepted the [unjust] seizure of your belongings and the confiscation of your property, conscious of the fact that you have a better possession and a lasting one [prepared for you in heaven]." Hebrews 10:32-34 AMP

Later in the same chapter, Peter offers another important insight along similar lines:

  • "For it is the time [destined] for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not respect or believe or obey the gospel of God? And if it is difficult for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the godless and the sinner? Therefore, those who are ill-treated and suffer in accordance with the will of God must [continue to] do right and commit their souls [for safe-keeping] to the faithful Creator." 1 Peter 4:17-19 AMP

Here Peter admonishes and encourages 1st century persecuted believers to remain at their post, even under the greatest of distress, as if it’s business as usual. Which it is, for Kingdom Citizen Soldiers.
Such passages, and hundreds like them, serve to highlight the difference between Christian Cruise Vs. Battleship mentality. The civilian mindset objects, inventing and claiming dozens of doctrines insulating and extracting them from such Scriptures and serious concerns. False narratives abound, from eternal security to pre-tribulation rapture.

Paul issues similar warnings, from 
"work out your own salvation with fear and trembling," to "But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified."

Time out! Is Paul saying we should 
"fear and tremble" over the status of our salvation? That after all he had believed and accomplished, the great apostle Paul could loose his salvation? In a word, Yes. These are explicit warnings that accentuate Christ's harsher sayings and teaching on Godly fear. As well as that of His apostles on the virtue of fear. Again, the author of Hebrews agrees:

  • "For the Lord corrects and disciplines everyone whom He loves, and He punishes, even scourges, every son whom He accepts and welcomes to His heart and cherishes.You must submit to and endure [correction] for discipline; God is dealing with you as with sons. For what son is there whom his father does not [thus] train and correct and discipline? Now if you are exempt from correction and left without discipline in which all [of God’s children] share, then you are illegitimate offspring and not true sons [at all]. Hebrews 12:6-8 AMPC

  • "So then, as the Holy Spirit says, “If you hear God's voice today, do not be stubborn, as your ancestors were when they rebelled against God, as they were that day in the desert when they put him to the test. There they put me to the test and tried me, says God, although they had seen what I did for forty years. And so I was angry with those people and said, ‘They are always disloyal and refuse to obey my commands.’ I was angry and made a solemn promise: ‘They will never enter the land where I would have given them rest!’” My friends, be careful that none of you have a heart so evil and unbelieving that you will turn away from the living God. Instead, in order that none of you be deceived by sin and become stubborn, you must help one another every day, as long as the word “Today” in the scripture applies to us. For we are all partners with Christ if we hold firmly to the end the confidence we had at the beginning. This is what the scripture says: “If you hear God's voice today, do not be stubborn, as your ancestors were when they rebelled against God.” Hebrews 3:7-15 GNT

Scripture could hardly be clearer. Our privileged position in the unfolding of the Kingdom of God comes at great cost. And as Jesus warned,
 "Great gifts mean great responsibilities; greater gifts, greater responsibilities!"

Here and elsewhere we are put on notice that we are responsible to 
honestly acknowledge and appropriately respond to the spiritual warfare raging around us. To grasp and learn from historical mistakes. To never assume salvation, confusing presumption for faith. Rather to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. To take a break from congratulating ourselves for lukewarm faith, long enough to attest the perilous nature of our condition.

Still the original problem persists. 
Churchianity's been taught to believe everything's fine. All the more given our natural inclination to judge ourselves by those around us. Compared to our fellow modern Christians, we're doing well. Compared to billions far more worldly and worse, we're doing great! Yet compared to our full potential we're doing poorly. Without the fullness of the Spirit, we continually fall short of our mission parameters; an acceptable state aboard a cruise ship. A disastrous state aboard a battleship. So where are the biggest areas of weakness in regards to welcoming the rigors of discipline in the arenas of obedience and training? These break down into elementary, intermediate and advance issues. Foundational issues include learning and adherence to the basic requirements of salvation and following Jesus, Bible study and prayer, worship and fellowship. For churches, identifying their gospel among the current seven church models would be a good start. Prayerfully developing correct Biblical instruction and lifestyle choices can provide an initial litmus test.

Only the
context of conflict theology can make sense both modern Christianity's state of woeful deception and flagrant disregard for the Bible's clear and concise commands. Including Scripture's emphasis on sanctification and the virtue of fear, the harsh sayings of Jesus and Revelation's account of Christ's judging His Church

The Apostle John's Book of Revelation is remarkable on many levels. Within its pages John, the disciple whom Jesus loved, reveals the greatest time of suffering and death Earth has ever known. Just two of his sixty predictions will take the lives of half of humanity!

Our generation has been given unprecedented and tremendous gifts and would do well to remember Christ's warning, "to whom much is given much is required." Besides reaping the answers to the prayers of all generations we also have 2,000 fulfilled Bible prophecies and the pages of the Scriptures's final Book of Revelation coming alive as a prophetic witness of Biblical authenticity.

The Apostle John, perhaps well educated in the knowledge of his time, still knew far less about the world than today's average elementary school student. Even so, he was able to look ahead into the future and describe in detail what were then unimaginable events. Two thousand years later the honest reader of his words can see the stage being set for the last chapter of human history as many of of his prophecies begin to unfold!

For example, the nation of Israel is a key player in Revelation's drama, yet in the Apostle John's day Israel was being ground under the boot of Rome, a global power showing no signs of weakening. For John to suggest Israel would become the center of world wide attention was ludicrous. All the more so after 70 A.D. when the Romans literally wiped it off the map. Yet in 1947 A.D. Israel reappeared in the same location. Never before or since has a nation having vanished for two centuries, much less two millennia, suddenly reemerged so. Israel's resurrection as a nation, not to mention its global status, is unprecedented in human history. Adding to Israel's miraculous modern history is the unbridled hostility of billions of Muslims, hundreds of millions of which all but surround the small plot of land Israel resides on. About the size of San Bernardino County in the Los Angles basin, Israel's population has been as little as 3 million. The Muslim nations nearby occupy as much territory as the United States, with over 300 million and yet in every war and conflict Israel has not only survived but conquered its attackers. The odds of Israels reappearance, growth and national prominence are astronomical. Additionally, there are a host of other previously impossible predictions all testifying to the validity of John's awesome and awe-full prophecy. These include the potential of a nuclear holocaust and fallout (see U.S. Nuclear Target Map), as well as the technology necessary for the Mark of the Beasts, both for the first time in human history at the stage of development necessary for the kind of implementation Scripture warned of two millennia ago.

The Alive After The Fall video is a short but well produced overview of last day prophecies in light of recent events. It also offers a reasonable though fearful handling of America's currently apparent place in Biblical prophecy, along with resources to help equip individuals and families to survive what may well be coming. GB highly recommends watching the video, but if necessary you can click here to view the transcript.

Billions of believers have been persuaded of our positional righteousness, regardless of our not so righteous lifestyles, encouraged to talk and sing a good story. Yet Jesus and His New Testament authors agree with the likes of Edwards and Wesley and Wilkerson and Ravenhill, Finney and Pitman, that presumption is at odds with Biblical faith.

This holds true in every aspect of
authentic Christianity, from assuming salvation to inappropriately intimate worship, from unanswered prayer to aborting the sacraments. As Paul cautioned concerning the power of health or sickness, life or death inherent yet underappreciated in the practice of communion:

  • "But if we evaluated and judged ourselves honestly [recognizing our shortcomings and correcting our behavior], we would not be judged. But when we [fall short and] are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined [by undergoing His correction] so that we will not be condemned [to eternal punishment] along with the world." 1 Corinthians 11:31-32 AMP
It falls to us to choose if and to what extent and how closely we're willing to follow Jesus. Particularly in light of His harsher commands. For those who do, there remains the challenge of becoming Godly men vs. godly men. If that. The choice is ours. Let's hope and pray we, our family and all those we know and love chose well.


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