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STEP 19: Slowly moving closer.

God speaks through his prophets but in this case he is speaking directly to Jerimiah.  Why did God tell him not to pray for Israel?  Israel can fail to serve their Lord, and he will bring them correction.  Does he see what they are doing today?  Does he see how other nations help them to execute genocide on Palestinians, including the Christians among them?  Western nations are complicit in Israel’s war crimes, even as the eastern bloc is in those of Islamist terrorists.  You don’t need to fear my opinion, but you should fear God’s opinion.  It is written; the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.

The steps I am writing about are the steps that lead to the suffering of the tribulation period.  Prophecy is not mythology; it is the roadmap of your future.  Israel is already attacking six nations all around it at times.  Conservative groups are ready to rebuild the temple, and Palestinians are being forced off their lands.  God is aware and has promised to refine Israel again.  Our leaders should stay out of this, but God has been feeding them strong delusion.  No nation measures up, so God has been leading them into war by misleading our leaders.  Don’t worry, both parties are guilty in his eyes. But that is because HE is misleading them, and he has a plan.  Christians will serve him, and he will deliver them.  But not everyone is innocent and some will suffer.

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REASSIGNMENT

BEGINNING OF THE END

The Lord warns Paul that his ministry is changing.  He must go to Jerusalem and trouble of some kind is waiting for him there.  So he tells his fellow missionaries that they are now in charge of sharing the gospel to the world.  He will never see them again, so they must do the work of the church.  There will be a few more miracles and a few more enemies pursuing him for now though.  Paul warns that more wolves will come, even from among these who are serving God for now.  We still see false prophets and we must be the watchmen to guard the truth.

Acts 20

1 And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.  2 And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece,  3 And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.  4 And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.  5 These going before tarried for us at Troas.

After the uproar ceased, Paul called the disciples, embraced them, and departed for Macedonia.  And when he had gone through those places and exhorted them, he went to Greece and stayed there three months.  The Jews ambushed him before he was to sail to Syria, so he decided to return through Macedonia.  Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians, Gaius and Timotheus of Derbe, and Tychicus and Trophimus of Asia went with him.  These who went ahead waited for us at Troas.

6 And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.  7 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.  8 And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.  9 And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.

We sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and joined those in Troas after five days, and stayed seven days.  On the first day of the week the disciples came together to break bread.  Paul preached to them, ready to depart the next day and continued his speech until midnight.  There were many lights in the upper chamber where they were gathered.  In a window a young man named Eutychus sat, being in a deep sleep.  As Paul was long preaching, he sank down asleep and fell from the third floor loft and was taken up dead.

10 And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.  11 When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.  12 And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.  13 And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.  14 And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.  15 And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus.

Paul went down, embraced him and said, don't trouble yourselves because he's alive.  He broke bread, ate, and talked a long while, even till daybreak, then he departed.  When they brought the young man up alive, they were greatly comforted.  Then we went by ship to Assos, waiting to meet Paul who had planned to travel there by foot.  When he met us there we took him in and went on to Mitylene.  We sailed from there the next day to Chios, and the next day we arrived at Samos, and lingered at Trogyllium then the next day we came to Miletus.

16 For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.  17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.  18 And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,  19 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:  20 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house,  21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul decided to sail quickly by Ephesus to spend less time in Asia, so he hurried to be in Jerusalem by Pentecost.  From Miletus he wrote to Ephesus and called together the elders of the church.  When they came he said, you knew from when I came to Asia, how I have been with you in all seasons, serving the Lord with humility, many tears, and temptations, which came with the lying of the Jews.  You know I kept no secrets of value from you, but showed you, and taught you publicly from house to house.  I testified to the Jews and the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:  23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.  24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.  25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.

Now I go bound in spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen there.  But I know the Holy Ghost warns me in every city warning that bonds and afflictions await me.  None of these things move me, nor is my life dear to me, so that I may finish my ministry to testify of the gospel of grace.  Now I know that you, among whom I have preached the kingdom of God, will see my face no more.

26 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.  27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.  28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.  29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.  30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

So I testify to you today that I am free of guilt of all men.  I have declared to you all the gospel of God.  Take care for yourselves, and for the flock which the Holy Ghost has assigned to you, to feed the church of God, which he purchased with his blood.  I know that after my departure false teachers will enter in among you, not sparing the flock.  Even some of your own will go bad, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.  32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.  33 I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.  34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.  35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Therefore watch, and remember, that over three years I didn't cease to warn everyone night and day with tears.  Now I commend you to God, and to his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all who are sanctified.  I have not coveted silver, gold, or clothing.  You know that I worked with these hands for my necessities, and for those that were with me.  I have shown you how that by such work you should support the weak, remembering the words of Jesus, as he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.  37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,  38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

When he said this, he kneeled down and prayed with all of them.  And they all wept sorely, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him, sorrowing most of all for the words which he spoke, that they would see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

NOW IT’S YOU…

Paul went on to glory and so have all of the disciples of their time.  But the church grows under persecution so here it is today.  Oh, the church may not be those who gather in great numbers and harvest great wealth.  But the true church is still here and thriving.  Many are called, but few are chosen so a minority of those who “claim” the faith are still here and still real.  Paul charges them (us) with guarding the faith and defending the truth.  At times we will have to speak truth, even in the face of death because persecution lingers for just a little while more.  But that persecution strengthens the true church even in places like China and Africa.  When tribulation weeds out the false teachers that Paul promised we will meet real Christians around the world.  We may work to care for ourselves and others, but God will provide all we need.  Paul is waiting for our real hero, Jesus.  Israel will look on he who they pierced when he sets foot on the Mount of Olives.  Until then we must be so much like him that they see him in us.  I look forward to meeting those real Christians who live for him in the underground churches in North Korea.

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STEP 17 :  When does it begin?

We only like the “nice” scriptures?  ALL Scripture is valuable, and ALL biblical prophecy is ALL true.  God is patient and he does not make repairs in great haste.  We may not notice the slow progress until things start to make the headlines.  It may start to speed up then!  God has given a lot of warnings even if a few details and dates are held back.  Some of the coming events may seem to come from natural or human sources, but God has made some direct threats to those who reject him.  Christians have a certain safety assured even if we don’t know all the details.  Moses had no clue how standing on the sea shore with a bunch of whining Jews would work out.  He knew WHO would save them, but not how.

The scripture above promises good things to Israel, but only AFTER some punishment.  Clearly some of that is already underway.  They are in danger if they try to form their own destiny when they oppose things Gods wants them to do.  He has sent armies to punish them in the past.  The Romans banished them for over two thousand years.  God is the source of all that humans finally do.  No secret societies or billionaires or “leaders” will determine the future.  No military alliance will save them.

But a period of tribulation may be offered only as a wake-up call.  Scriptures indicate that God will not destroy all of Israel’s enemies.  Perhaps there will be prayer in those foxholes.  Certainly a few will curse God and die, but others may repent.  Those who make a real change may serve God until he ends the refinement of the human condition.

What marks the actual beginning of troubles?  There will be evidence in the headlines.  Leadership is already becoming delusional, and war seems to be firing up even today.  It will not be a big secret.

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STEP 16: When scripture becomes headlines…STEP BACK

Does God approve of the bombing and starvation of Palestinians in Gaza?  If he determines this to be wrong then Israel may be punished again as in the past.  God has sent armies to destroy them at times.   When they crucified his son they rebelled against the Romans and were banished for 2,000 years! 

If God gets involved, Israel may want a new opinion about the king of the Jews.  After the two-millennium time has passed more than a few Jews have embraced their messiah.  As a Christian I expect that Israel will see their king again soon.  That will take some time though.

9 And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem.  10 And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.  11 In that day shall there be a great mourning in Jerusalem, as the mourning of Hadadrimmon in the valley of Megiddon.  Zechariah 12:9-11

We can remember how Joseph was merciful to his brethren because he was a type of the mercy that Jesus will show to Israel when they see him.  After they smote their shepherd this will still come at a price.

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BEING RIGHT BUT POLITE...

SAFE PASSAGE

Paul continues teaching, finding some who need just a little help.  Others are hostile but tolerance is still part of their experience.  Ephesus would not tolerate too much disorder.

Acts 19

1 And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,  2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.  3 And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.  4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.  5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

As Apollos was at Corinth Paul came to Ephesus and found some disciples there.  He said to them, have you received the Holy Ghost since you believed?  And they said to him, we have not heard if there is any Holy Ghost.  Paul said to them, what then were you baptized to?  They said, to John's baptism.  Then Paul said, John baptized with the baptism of repentance offering that they should believe on Christ Jesus who would come after him.  When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.  7 And all the men were about twelve.  8 And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.  9 But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.  10 And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.

When Paul laid his hands on them the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spoke with tongues, and prophesied.  The men numbered about twelve.  He went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, disputing and persuading about the kingdom of God.   But many were hardened by disbelief they spoke evil of the gospel before the multitude.  Paul and the disciples left them to go preaching daily in the school of one Tyrannus.  This continued for two years so all who lived in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.

11 And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul:  12 So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.  13 Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.  14 And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.  15 And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?

God did special miracles by Paul so handkerchiefs or aprons that touched his body were brought to the sick and the diseases and evil spirits left them.  Then some of the Jews who were exorcists took on themselves to call over those who had evil spirits.  They said, we command you to come out of them by Jesus whom Paul preaches.  There were seven sons of a Jew named Sceva, and the chief of the priests who did so.  The evil spirit answered, Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are you?

16 And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.  17 And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.  18 And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds.  19 Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver.  20 So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.

The man with the evil spirit leaped on them, overcame them, and prevailed against them so they fled the house naked and wounded.  This became known to all the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, and fear fell on them, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.  Then many who believed came and confessed their sins.  Many of them who practiced witchcraft brought their books and burned them before all.  They counted the price of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver.  So the word of God grew and prevailed.

21 After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome.  22 So he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him, Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season.  23 And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.  24 For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen;  25 Whom he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said, Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth.

After this Paul passed through Macedonia and Achaia, and he planned to go to Jerusalem saying, after going there, I must also see Rome.  He sent Timotheus and Erastus, who served him, to Macedonia but he stayed in Asia for a season.  At the same time there arose a great stir about the gospel.  A silversmith named Demetrius, who made shrines for Diana, brought great profit to the craftsmen.  He called them together with the workmen of similar occupations, and said, you know that we have our wealth by this craft.

26 Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands:  27 So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth.  28 And when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.  29 And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre.  30 And when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not.

Demetrius continued, you have heard that not only in Ephesus, but throughout most of Asia, Paul has persuaded people that these are no gods which are made with hands.   So not only is our craft in danger, but also the temple of Diana who Asia and the world worships might be despised.  And when they heard these sayings, they were angry and cried out saying, great is Diana of the Ephesians.  The whole city was filled with confusion, and when they caught Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul's travelling companions, they rushed into the theatre.  When Paul wanted to enter the theater  the disciples refused to let him.

31 And certain of the chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring him that he would not adventure himself into the theatre.  32 Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was confused: and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.  33 And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward.  And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people.  34 But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.  35 And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter?

Some friends of the chief of Asia sent to prevent Paul from entering the theatre.  Some cried one thing, and some another because the assembly was confused and most didn't know why they had come together.  They pushed Alexander to the front of the room.  Alexander signaled that he would make his defense to the people.  But when they knew that he was a Jew, they all cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians for about two hours.  When the town clerk had calmed the people, he said, You men of Ephesus, who doesn't know that the city of the Ephesians worships the great goddess Diana, and the image which fell down from Jupiter?

36 Seeing then that these things cannot be spoken against, ye ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly.  37 For ye have brought hither these men, which are neither robbers of churches, nor yet blasphemers of your goddess.  38 Wherefore if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a matter against any man, the law is open, and there are deputies: let them implead one another.  39 But if ye enquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful assembly.  40 For we are in danger to be called in question for this day's uproar, there being no cause whereby we may give an account of this concourse.  41 And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly.

Seeing then that these things are undeniable, you should be quiet and do nothing rashly.  For you brought these men, who are neither robbers nor blasphemers of your goddess.  So if Demetrius or the craftsmen with him have a matter against anyone, the law is open and there are deputies, let them plead the issues.  But if you question other matters, it will be decided in a lawful assembly.  We are in danger of being charged for this day's disturbance with no cause to explain it.  When he had said this he dismissed the assembly.

MAINTAIN ORDER

Paul and his companions shared the gospel, which threatened the profits of those who made idol in Ephesus.  Jesus scourged those who tried to use money as a barrier to faith in Jerusalem.  But these in Ephesus were all about profit and not about any real faith at all.  When they conflicted, a concern was raised that the very noise of their conflict could land them all in jail.  To this day disagreements may land demonstrators in jail.  We must love our enemies even if we cannot allow ourselves to agree with them.  All men have this God-given right; to free will.

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GOD DOESN'T WANT OUR HELP.

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STEP 15:  What’s happeining?

As Israel engages on several military fronts, the United States embraces a role as an ally even as much of the world is turning against them.  A lot of public opinion including our allies is souring on Israel and our support of them.  The bible has offered direction that shows us how God has dealt with Israel’s failures in the past.

The important news about God and Israel is not what their leaders want.  God is their provider for prosperity and security.  When Israel relied on an alliance with Egypt the Lord sent armies to destroy both.  God will not let another nation be Israel’s provider.  He may send an army to punish them though.. 

As we see trouble brewing all around Israel we need to remember that they are not always what God wants them to be.  But he is the one who is refining them, and no world leaders will save them from his judgment.  He is not anti-Semitic, but he is anti-sin.  He will not fail to correct them without our help.

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SPREADING HOPE

RAPID GROWTH

Paul is in travelling mode, sharing the gospel and being delivered from persecution.  There is even a new preacher breaking in.

Acts 18

1 After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;  2 And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.  3 And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.  4 And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.  5 And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.

After these things Paul left Athens and went to Corinth, and found a Jew named Aquila who was born in Pontus and recently arrived from Italy with his wife Priscilla.  Emperor Claudius had commanded all Jews to leave Rome.  Because he was of the same profession, he lived and worked with them because they were tentmakers by trade.  He reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.  When Silas and Timotheus came from Macedonia, Paul was motivated by the spirit and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.

6 And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean; from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.  7 And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue.  8 And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.  9 Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:  10 For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.

They blasphemed and didn't believe Paul, so he shook his clothing and said to them, Your blood is on your own heads, so I'm clean and I'll go to the Gentiles.  He left there and entered the home of a man named Justus who worshipped God, whose house was attached to the synagogue.  Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians also believed, and were baptized.  Then the Lord spoke to Paul by a vision, do not fear but speak without holding not your peace for I am with you and no man will harm you because I have many people in this city.

11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.  12 And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,  13 Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.  14 And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you:  15 But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters.  16 And he drave them from the judgment seat.  17 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things. 

Paul remained there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.  When Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection against Paul and brought him to the judgment seat.  They said, this fellow persuades men to worship God contrary to the law.  When Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, If this were a matter of evil or wicked lewdness, you Jews think that I would agree with you.  But if it's a question of words, names, and your law, you take care of it, because I will not judge such matters.  Then he drove them from the judgment seat.  Then the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat.  And Gallio didn't care about any of those things.

18 And Paul after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.  19 And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.  20 When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not;  21 But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus.  22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up, and saluted the church, he went down to Antioch.  23 And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples. 

After this Paul stayed there yet a good while, then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed to Syria.  He took Priscilla and Aquila with him, having sheared his head in Cenchrea for a vow.  He came to Ephesus, and left them there, but he entered the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.  When they asked him to stay longer with them, he declined.  Instead, he bid them farewell saying, I must keep the feast in Jerusalem, but God willing I will return to you.  Then he sailed from Ephesus to Caesarea.  When he landed he saluted the church and then went to Antioch.  After he spent some time there he left and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples. 

24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.  25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.  26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.  27 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:  28 For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.

A Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man familiar with scriptures, came to Ephesus.  This man was instructed in the way of the Lord, fervent in the spirit, and he taught of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.  He began to speak boldly in the synagogue, so when Aquila and Priscilla heard, they taught him the way of God more perfectly.  When he went to Achaia, the brethren wrote encouraging the disciples to receive him.  When he came he helped them who had believed through grace.  He greatly convinced the Jews publicly, showing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.

GOD IS MOVING

Gentiles and Jews are coming to the gospel by Paul’s preaching.  But as usual some persecution is expected but not appreciated by the secular authorities.  It seems that even the teaching of John the Baptist has planted seeds of faith, and a new preacher joins the mission.  The church is growing as the word is patiently shared.  Paul even got a personal message from the Lord assuring his safety around his enemies.  God is building his kingdom.

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DANGEROUS GIFT

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ANOTHER SUNDAY STUDY. EARLY ACTS OF FAITH

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STEP 14: UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Our dog park is closed.  Re-paving the main service road has the whole area torn up.  I must walk the dog in the city park, and he drags me until I am on the point of collapse.  And I am lost if he sees a squirrel!  The inconvenience is to be temporary, and we will have new pavement, freshly painted lines, and better drainage systems.  The benefits will justify some disruption.  The community is slightly upset by the state highway department here.  But these come from a higher authority that brings us better solutions.

Wheatland Wyoming under construction…for now.

Sometimes God sees things that need to be repaired, and his process can upset the community until the work is finished.  He once saw a need to eliminate bad rulers in Israel, and it took 70 years to get them ready to rebuild.

Behold, I will send and take all the families of the north, saith the Lord, and NEBUCHADREZZAR THE KING OF BABYLON, MY SERVANT, AND WILL BRING THEM AGAINST THIS LAND, and against the inhabitants thereof, and against all these nations round about, and will utterly destroy them, and make them an astonishment, and an hissing, and perpetual desolations.  Moreover I will take from them the voice of mirth, and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride, the sound of the millstones, and the light of the candle.  And this whole land shall be a desolation, and an astonishment; and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years.  Jeremiah 25:9-11

God is not anti-Semitic, but he wants his chosen people to be good examples, not oppressing the poor or living in idolatry.  So he sent some time-consuming repairs and lessons.  He even promised to send a leader who would guide them.  They did not receive him as their messiah, so God has more repair work to do after they crucified him.  A Roman ruler let them vote (for Barabbas) and God sent them another repair project which has lasted about 2000 years.  Those who received the promise of messiah wanted to help but this repair was painful for those who rebelled.  God has told us about the next repair project.  Remember that God does good works for a better future.  The warnings prepare us for a big project that leads to a better future.  If God is the author, the troubles are good for us.

The great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly, even the voice of the day of the Lord: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly.  That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness,  A day of the trumpet and alarm against the fenced cities, and against the high towers.  And I will bring distress upon men, that they shall walk like blind men, because they have sinned against the Lord: and their blood shall be poured out as dust, and their flesh as the dung.  Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of the Lord's wrath; but the whole land shall be devoured by the fire of his jealousy: for he shall make even a speedy riddance of all them that dwell in the land.  Zephaniah 1:14-18

But don’t feel left out.  Israel will become a good example, and we lesser nations need a few repairs too.

For the indignation of the Lord is upon ALL NATIONS, and his fury upon all their armies: he hath utterly destroyed them, he hath delivered them to the slaughter.  Isaiah 34:2

We too will be purged of bad parts and those who curse God.  Isn’t it great to be given good things as God is promising us?  And one city or nation will get special attention, whoever this is.  Some gentile venture is hiding a lot of bad works that are in great need of repair.  Well, God has begun the repairs.

And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.  Revelation 14:8      

Bad works are weakness, and we want to remove the rot that makes the structure weak.  This one will be repaired…or replaced.  God is doing the work it must be good.  Best we do not join her leaders in their misguided efforts.  Serve God, not the idolatry of a proud nation.

20 REJOICE OVER HER, THOU HEAVEN, AND YE HOLY APOSTLES AND PROPHETS; for God hath avenged you on her.  21 And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and cast it into the sea, saying, Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all.  22 And the voice of harpers, and musicians, and of pipers, and trumpeters, shall be heard no more at all in thee; and no craftsman, of whatsoever craft he be, shall be found any more in thee; and the sound of a millstone shall be heard no more at all in thee;  23 And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy sorceries were all nations deceived.  24 AND IN HER WAS FOUND THE BLOOD OF PROPHETS, AND OF SAINTS, AND OF ALL THAT WERE SLAIN UPON THE EARTH.  Revelation 18:20-24

The remaining nations will be free to help repair (punish?) Israel at their own risk.  Remember Jesus warned his followers to flee before this event.  As a prophet he mapped their safe passage around the construction.  Trust your prophets of God.

1 Behold, the day of the Lord cometh, and thy spoil shall be divided in the midst of thee.  2 For I will gather ALL NATIONS against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city.  Zechariah 14:1-2

Those nations have all followed delusional men, so they attack Israel.  But read the scripture, GOD is the one who issued these repair orders.  The leaders may think they should attack Israel, but it is the people who reject messiah on both sides (left and right!) who are trapped in this burning hatred.  Mr. Spock might say, “It is illogical, captain”.  Nations are already at war in ways that defy logic, hate is illogical, it just hates.  Gaza, Ukraine, Kashmere will never end.  Both sides are living the law of eye for eye and tooth for tooth.  Soon the blind people will be unable to chew their food.  God is also the author of the delusion that drives the nations to attack Israel.  And he also has enemies in Israel who have the same delusion and illogical rage.  They have nurtured it for centuries.

Troubles are coming to the leaders who steal from their flocks, or to those who murder and hate.  No one expects a just God to allow evil to share his rewards.  If there is to be a good ending, he has to clean house before he fixes it.  Our old sewers were torn out before the new ones were put in place.  If there is to be a new future, the old one must be ended by a certain time.  We have had thousands of years in which Yeshua was announced, presented, and rejected.  But he continues to work through his true followers.  He is also resisted by false teachers.  Israel and the servants of Jesus will be refined in fire.

Scripture delivers us prophecy, and it is always accurate, even if we are not given exact dates.  A prophet of God delivers accurate information about events that will come.  We need to understand and not fear them.  We can recognize world events that are moving to complete the repairs we need.  Man is unable to repair the damage we have done so we need his plan.  We need God, and he is faithful to save.  We must have faith to believe to receive the grace Jesus gives us.  Learn from scripture and prophecy.

God has promised a time of repair.  This is not a problem for us, we can even be part of the construction process.  Many may share the gospel and help the poor in this time.  It may be a bad time for political ventures when both sides may have some very dark secrets.  God will clean those up.  Some may be martyrs and return in the first resurrection.  We will see pain in war, but the end will be a good change.  We may finally meet the secret Christians who have overcome persecution in distant lands.  As a woman travails in birth, the saints will have joy in a special birth.

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STEP 13: NO GOOD CHOICES?

America and other nations are divided, almost evenly in wars of hate.  Left and right live around the world in various forms.  But mostly no political party can be entirely right or wrong.  Sadly, some can be more wrong than others.  What can we do?  When the parties are large enough elections are uncertain, and legal challenges paralyze most defenses.  If they are even enough there may be little chance of real change in a reasonable time.

Christians are a minority; many are called, but few are chosen.  Only those who follow the straight narrow way can really maintain our Christian walk.  Fortunately, we can seek the Lord for help staying on the path.  I’m sure we are all aware of groups that claim to be Christian while operating in ways unsupported by scripture though.  Jesus wrote letters to seven churches in Revelation, some good and some not so good.  I am glad he wrote to all because there are sometimes a few in dark places who may choose to listen to him instead of their churches.  We may be surprised to hear a voice of reason coming from unexpected places.  So I retain hope that hope may rise when it is unexpected.   Most of the bible delivered the saints with surprise solutions.  The Lord knows what he is planning to do even when we don’t have all the details yet.

While we may be lacking details, there are huge revelations about our future in both testaments.  God is not to blame if we don’t believe that prophecies are real predictions of our future.  And he is not to blame if we ignore real warnings.  The bible is more truth than any human leaders can ever fabricate.  Too many people believe their lies instead of the timeless map that God left for us to follow.  God made this map, the bible, to lead us UP, not left or right.  Christians are not called to fight and kill, but to love our neighbors.  Only God has the right to judge.  We draw people by our good works, not by hate or laws. 

The conditions that leave no political choice are probably part of God’s plan. 

(And for this cause GOD SHALL SEND THEM STRONG DELUSION, that they should believe a lie: 12 That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 2 Thessalonians 2:12) 

That delusion does not include true Christians though.  You have a bible full of information and instructions that can keep you on a godly path.  We have a deep source of evidence to build our trust in God.  We have no reason to place any trust in the leadership of men that we see today.  We can’t even trust the news media to protect the truth when they are for sale to the highest bidders.  We need not worry about the billionaires, the secret societies, or self-important potentates.  God controls world events, not these pretenders.  Having read the book of Esther, do you know who ran that show?  We don’t need to see his name in the news to know who the power is.

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STEP 12: DIPLOMACY IN DECLINE

Christians are to love our enemies, but that concept seems to be fading out.  If the spirit of God is not teaching us of this need we are in trouble.  Is our world showing signs that the Holy Spirit has withdrawn as if God is letting our worst nature have license?

As nations start pushing each other, negotiation skills seem to be in decline.  There is no shortage of wars and rumors of wars, only understanding how the issues are often so minor and find no resolution.  Even in our daily life drivers and neighbors turn to rage and violence.  People get shot just for passing by.  Where is the next great crisis coming from?  With all these local battles in play, any of them could escalate and possibly connect.  Just a quick look at trouble boiling away today:

IN OR NEAR CONFLICT:

Trump- Trade

China- Territory grab

Korea

Philippines

Japan

Taiwan

Ukraine

Russia

Pakistan

India

Sudan

Israel

Hamas

Hezbollah

Iran

Syria

Lebanon

Iraq

GROWING THREATS:

Allies changing sides

Targeting of Civilians, children, seniors, prisoners

Refugees escaping conflict that other nations created

Targeting concerts, public gatherings

Outlawed weapons of war: chemical, cluster, thermobaric

Weaponization of poverty, disease, hunger, and mass slaughter, genocide

Sabotage of cables, computer hacking, satellites, money laundering, drug dealing

Political lies, propaganda

Division

Even our local civilian world seems to be in decline.

LOCAL THREATS:

Racial divisions in a melting pot nation

Us vs. them anger without communication

Violence aimed at anyone passing near

Vigilante justice lacking due process

Voters openly embracing vile political movements.

Parents killing their children, children killing their parents, children killing each other.

BUT IS SIN ILLEGAL?

We see groups trying to make laws to control the sins…of everyone else.  God gave us his law to prove that we mortals can NOT avoid sin.  We were born there, and the law can only condemn us.  Almost everyone before Jesus died in their sins.  Jesus preached to hell, so they were not lost forever.  They were given a choice at the last minute.  That was a major turning point away from law that kills.

Jesus opened the door to grace and gave us thousands of years to take his offer.  God also gave us free will, our God-given right.  The tribulation is when time is running out on those slow learners.  The ordeals gradually ramp up until they are clearly coming from God.  Christians will remain even if they are martyred.  God sends two immortal witnesses, but even they die…once.  Two-thirds of Israel die in a war that leads them to see the one they pierced come down to them again.

Clearly our neighbors and their leaders are unusually busy making bad headlines.  Even some churches are moving away from Jesus teaching, while others are surprisingly alive in this dying world.  If we study we can become more like Jesus, caring for others as trials increase.  We are going to se the world become worse even as scripture becomes our only source of real truth.  But that is the mercy of the tribulation, an awakening.

God is building pressure to grow awareness and repentance.  With free will some can be saved while others will see the more dramatic events of the tribulation.  The difference now will be events being sped up to prepare for a new world, not the end of one.  God is aware of the human condition and has prepared a last chance for whoever is willing to hear him.  God has something else for those who will not hear him.

7 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.  8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:  9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,  10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.  11 And for this cause GOD SHALL SEND THEM STRONG DELUSION, that they should believe a lie:  12 That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.  2 Thessalonians 2:7-12

For you of faith these times are for opportunity in service, not horrible dangers.  Notice how this psalm offers assurances for events very much like what God promises to send during the tribulation events.  He will always be there for his people.  God is in control, not men, God is sending them this delusion.

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STEP 11: NEVER ALONE

Where do we get help in a time of major chaos?  Instinct seeks out others for protection, but who can we trust?  We often seek a big gang like a political party.  Or a church offers connection for those of us who believe God.  Religion and politics are both getting a bad name lately.  What if we discover corruption is permeating our usual connections?  There is a lot of trouble in our news lately.  Some of it may be encroaching our own lives.  It may even be bad in small towns where we feel safe even if we aren’t. 

I moved to a small town in Wyoming and there are still reports of crime around me on occasion.  There are sex offenders, wife beaters, and probably a few sneaky elected officials.  There are preachers pushing political views that do not align with scripture.  Perhaps I get paranoid watching YouTube crash and crime videos.   But an economic crash can threaten every community in the world.  And nations at times fight with armies when they feel threatened.  Where do we shelter when the world seems to be sinking?

If we anchor in our faith, we trust God to keep us, but we may still feel alone.  But there have been dark days before and more will follow.  Elijah saw a polluted world during the reign of Ahab and Jezebel.  He thought he was all alone.

13 And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah?  14 And he said, I have been very jealous for the Lord God of hosts: because the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; AND I, EVEN I ONLY, AM LEFT; AND THEY SEEK MY LIFE, TO TAKE IT AWAY.  15 And the Lord said unto him, Go, return on thy way to the wilderness of Damascus: and when thou comest, anoint Hazael to be king over Syria:  16 And Jehu the son of Nimshi shalt thou anoint to be king over Israel: and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abelmeholah shalt thou anoint to be prophet in thy room.  17 And it shall come to pass, that him that escapeth the sword of Hazael shall Jehu slay: and him that escapeth from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha slay.  18 YET I HAVE LEFT ME SEVEN THOUSAND IN ISRAEL, ALL THE KNEES WHICH HAVE NOT BOWED UNTO BAAL, AND EVERY MOUTH WHICH HATH NOT KISSED HIM. 

1 Kings 19:13-18

No matter how dark the times are becoming, there are still real Christians.  But we can begin to learn how to identify them…by their fruit.  As a contract worker I have lived in over 20 communities all over America.  Finding a good church can be tricky.  I always take notes on sermon to help me understand the beliefs being presented.  As a temp worker I may let a few things pass when my stay will be short.  But if I hear a speech with no scripture foundation I have been known to walk out.  Messages that promote political views of any kind are not for me.  I have one king, and no political view can be better than scripture.  Political goals are to win votes, usually at any cost of compromise or corruption.  Real Christians are a minority, but parties need every other splinter group they can connect, good or bad.

I asked a church member about a politician, and he began screaming at me, calling me a liar.  By then I knew I needed to find another church, even in this small town.  I know at lest three that will not push political views at me here.  Best of all I can hear solid scripture that feeds my spiritual growth without the perversion of human thinking.  The time is coming when only scripture will stand the test as truth.  The wisdom of man is winding down.

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STEP 10: WHICH WAY OUT?

My previous articles suggest a coming military action.  Scripture seems to describe a group of nations associated with the antichrist attacking a very commercial nation.  War is not unusual, and the scripture is not revealing a major part of the tribulation.  These events are not earth shaking but they may be an important event for our times.  This is an event from scripture that may mark the beginning of the time known as the tribulation.  For many people there is already tribulation by war, famine, and disease.  This marks a time when the comfortable people of the world may see big changes.

This is not a world war at this point, and likely only two or three parties are damaged by it.  Scripture suggests that God sees sin in all of these nations so they may earn their pain.  There may be destruction, death, and an end of comfortable life.  Government protections and critical services may collapse.  We may already be seeing the demise of checks and balances, due process, and civil rights.  There may be no place for any nation to be the world police at this point.  If Russia is not involved, they may become a much greater power in the world.

Prophecy may have given us a warning, but it has never revealed how one might escape these threats.  Moses faced an ocean, a rebellious flock, and an Egyptian army closing in.  God did not tell him how they would be saved.  Moses did not try to tell God what to do.  They knew WHO would save them, but not how he would save them. 

I am writing for those who believe the bible, and others may not bother to read a lot of this.  But the tribulation is actually a time of mercy, not total destruction.  Some may consider trusting God as events become more like supernatural disasters.  The heat is only slowly being dialed up to give hope.  A war will be a wake-up call for many who remember the scripture that prepared us.  The solution is an attitude adjustment that considers the bible to be our real truth and hope.  Faith enables a wisdom that the world cannot match.  We trust God and he delivers just enough, just in time.  Many of us have seen proof of God’s help over the years we have been trusting him.  Not all the miracles are left in bible history.  God is still real and helping today.

When this war changes the balance of power in the world it may mark the beginning of the tribulation period.  The wrath of God is not aimed at his followers, but the wrath of man and Satan will be.  There are scriptures that define a three and a half year time for this trouble. 

And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?   And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.  Revelation 13:4-5

As I projected, Putin is the head of a group of allies that have no limit to evil deeds.  Just ask the Ukranians!  If members of that alliance fit the “horns of the beast” that strike the “harlot”, will it empower Russia?  Scripture warns that God will send unbelievers strong delusion to believe a lie…from a great liar.  Who is that wicked man then?

Everything is moving slowly forward now, but it is moving.  Is this a good time to believe the truth?  Relations with our neighbors are already showing strain and cracks.

China Deploys Aircraft Carrier Group in Warning to US and Ally  Newsweek Apr 24, 2025