I Hope 4 Him: sermon notes

Showing posts with label sermon notes. Show all posts

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Israel's Role In Christ's Return

2. The PURPOSE of Israel

Jesus Christ and His redemption of mankind.

Sovereign design of His purpose:
Why Israel and not Egypt, Greece, Turkey or a larger, more powerful nation? He wanted to bring glory to His name so He chose an unlikely tiny nation to reveal His power, faithfulness, mercy and love.

The assault against His purpose:

- The world is united against them, even many in America are more sympathetic with the Muslim world

- God blesses those who bless Israel and curses those who curse her.
- She is still in a precarious position with fragile borders and radical, hostile neighbors who are forming alliances against her.

There is a dangerous international dependence on oil exports from the middle east, and there is a growing belief that there are significant oil deposits in Israel. If she has wealth that rivals that of her Arab neighbors, between the hatred of the radical Muslims and the threat of their economic collapse, the stage will be set for global unification. The world will feel the need for a global leader who can bring peace (antichrist). Men will trade freedoms when their hearts are overwhelmed with fear.

3. The RESCUE of Israel

Major prophecies waiting to be fulfilled:
- Reunification of Israel and the expansion of her borders
- Antichrist will make a seven-year peace treaty with them
- Jewish people will rebuild the third Temple in Jerusalem
- Russia and her Islamic allies will invade the nation of Israel when she is at peace
- Antichrist will desecrate the Temple
- Jewish people will flee into the wilderness/mountains
- Two-thirds of Jewish people will perish during the tribulation
- The armies will gather at Megiddo
- Jerusalem will be taken
- Jesus will return and many Jewish people will accept Him as Messiah

Remember:
- Israel is important because God made a covenant with her. If our nation takes a stand against Israel, we should expect God's judgment to come against us.
- There is still only one way for a Jewish or a Gentile person to be saved - believe on the Lord Jesus.
- Christians need to recognize and respect God's covenant and support Israel because of God's covenant.
- Every believe should live with expectancy and excitement that Jesus is coming again
- Rebirth of the nation of Israel and current events remind us that the last days are upon us.

Christ WILL return for His church, and then return to rule over the earth. Will you be ready? Click here to be sure!

Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse

FOUR HORSEMEN OF THE APOCALYPSE

"For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will. Unless those days had been cut short, no life would have been saved ; but for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short. Then if anyone says to you, 'Behold, here is the Christ,' or 'There He is,' do not believe him. For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect." ~Matt 24:21-24 (NASB)

The INITIATION of the Last Days

- God has a plan and finishes what He starts

- Man cannot stop His plan

- Payday is coming - you will reap what you sow: more thank you sow, later than you sow.

The REVELATION of the Last Days (Rev 6:1-11)

Four horsemen are the first four of the seven "seal judgments"

1st - riding a white horse, holding a bow and crown, bent on conquest (rescuer, bow but no arrows, seems to offer security and is given authority, has mastery uses anything to gain power - antichrist?)

2nd - riding a red horse, takes peace and causes men to slay each other, had a large sword (bloodthirsty, hatred, peace exchanged for terror)

3rd - riding a black horse, holding scales (mourning, hunger and famine, economic disaster and moral decay and collapse for some but not those in power, mark of the beast?)

4th - riding a pale horse, rider name death, hell follows. Given power to kill 1/4 earth by sword, famine, plague and wild beasts/pestilence (Despair, armed with 4 weapons for destruction)

The fourth horse will come at the mid-point of the tribulation period, after which increasingly horrific judgments will be unleashed on the earth (Great Tribulation).

The CULMINATION to the Last Days

- Suffering increases when we run from God.

- Suffering can cause us to return to Christ and realign us when we surrender.

- Great Tribulation isn't the end - Look for Jesus' return!

The Great Tribulation will be an awful time, but Christians aren't without hope! You can KNOW your eternity is secure - click HERE to find out how.

When Jesus Comes Again

http://www.firstroanoke.com/HTML/Resources/0410-LastDays/071810/Viewer.shtml

WHEN JESUS COMES AGAIN!

For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather. Immediately after the distress of those days " 'the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.' At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory." ~Matt 24:27-30 (NASB)

Consider the most significant news events in the past 100 years. For Bible scholars it would include the reunification of the nation of Israel in 1948, but at some point in the future the headline will read "Jesus returned to earth!" He WILL return visibly, physically, personally, suddenly, dramatically, majestically, gloriously and triumphantly!

The only event that MUST happen before the rapture of the church is the reunification of the nation of Israel, and a series of events will follow that will usher in the tribulation period. It is likely that Israel will be attacked but will be supernaturally protected by the hand of God. An event will occur that allows the antichrist to rise to power and establish a peace treaty in the middle east. It will appear to be a long-lasting treaty, but then the antichrist along with the ten kings from the revived Roman empire will begin to persecute and seek to destroy the Jewish people. They will flee into the mountains as the antichrist begins an evil and maniacal reign. As soldiers converge in the Jezreel valley to fight the battle of Armageddon, Jesus returns and hundreds of millions of unbelievers die as Jesus speaks against them. (Those Christians who manage to live to the end of the Great Tribulation will be spared.) Jesus throws the antichrist and the false prophet into the pit of hell, and Satan is bound in the abyss for 1000 years.

When Jesus sets foot onto the earth for the first time, it will be on the Mount of Olives and He will establish His millennial kingdom of peace with a new world-wide government based in Jerusalem.

1. The EXPECTATION of His Coming

It's important not to confuse the rapture of the church with the second coming of Christ. At the rapture, Jesus comes FOR His church. At His second coming, He comes WITH His church. The saints will return with Him and will be a part of His government.

How can Jesus defeat the armies of the antichrist with a word? Remember that God spoke into the void and the world was created. Jesus spoke to the storms and quieted them. He spoke to the soldiers in the Garden of Gethsemane and they fell to the ground. He spoke to Lazarus and raise him from the dead. A word is all He needs.

1 Thess 5:9 - Christians don't need to be worried about the antichrist or the tribulation period because we'll be with Jesus!

Fast facts about the second coming:

- It's referred to in 23 of the 27 New Testament books

- 318 NT chapters refer to it

- 8x more references to it than for his first coming

- 1,845 explicit references throughout the Bible

- 21 times Jesus talked about it Himself

- 50 times people are encouraged to be ready for His coming.

The first coming was as a Suffering Servant and Savior, the Lamb of God, wrapped in swaddling clothes surrounded by animals and commoners, and His voice was a gently cry.

The second coming will be as a Conquering King in His glory, the Lion of Judah, dressed in robes of righteousness dipped in blood and accompanied by armies of angels and by His church, and His voice will be a roll of thunder.

Be faithful, consistent, DOING and waiting for Him.

2. The REALIZATION of His Coming

Jude 1:14-15 even during the tribulation period there will be those who harden their hearts, even with testimonies of the 144,000 Jewish evangelists and the two witnesses.

Two suppers will take place:

- the birds' supper of the corpses on the plains of Armageddon, and

- the wedding supper of the Lamb.

Jesus will reclaim the world and defeat the enemies of God. He will set up His kingdom and reestablish the throne of David.

3. The APPLICATION of His Coming

How audacious is the world to think they could oppose God? He ALWAYS wins!

The study of God's Word helps us have His perspective on our circumstances and know His will. We should be motivated to live for Him and:

1 Thess 4 - encourage the brokenhearted

1 John 2 - live holy lives

Heb 2 - don't ignore the church

1 cor 11 - take Lord's supper regularly

1 Thess 3 - love others

1 Cor 4 - don't judge others

Jude 1 - become soul winners

A great time of praise is coming for the nation of Israel. Orthodox Jewish congregations still don't use musical instruments in their worship (Ps 137), but when Messiah comes and establishes His kingdom they will praise Him with all they have!

"Sing, O Daughter of Zion; shout aloud, O Israel!

Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, O Daughter of Jerusalem!

The Lord has taken away your punishment,

He has taken back your enemy.

The Lord, the King of Israel, is with you;

never again will you fear any harm.

On that day they will say to Jerusalem,

'Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands hang limp.

The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save.

He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love,

He will rejoice over you with singing.'"

Zephaniah 3:14-17 (NIV)

Do you know which of the two suppers you'll attend? Click here to learn how you can be at the wedding supper of the Lamb!

Preparing For Armageddon

http://www.firstroanoke.com/HTML/Resources/0410-LastDays/071110/Viewer.shtml

PREPARING FOR ARMAGEDDON

Matt 25:31-46

Rev 14:14-16

Rev 16:16

Rev 19:11-16

The WATCH for Armegeddon

Several definite signs:

- Reuniting of nation of Israel, Jewish exiles returning to their homeland

- Reunification of Europe, no passports needed to travel between countries, common currency (Euro), coalition of nations

- Resolve against Israel among Muslim nations. Many moderate Muslim nations such as Turkey are under pressure to form alliances with radical Muslim nations.

Armageddon is a real geographical location. It is situated in Galilee between Haifa, Jerusalem and Nazareth. Many battles have already been fought there through the ages: Egyptians, Crusaders, Persians, Greeks, Arabs, French, Turks, British etc. The battle will converge in the Jezreel Valley, which is surrounded by the ruins of Megiddo, Mt Tabor, Mt Carmel and Mt Gilboa.

Jezreel Valley in Israel - where the battle of Armageddon will be fought

The name "Armageddon" comes from "har" meaning "mountain," and the ancient city of "Megiddo"

The valley encompasses 4500 sq miles and several biblical battles have been recorded there:

Deborah and Barak against Canaanites (Judges 4-5),

Gideon against the Midianites (Judges 6-7),

King Saul against the Philistines (1 Samuel 31)

The battle was prophesied in Zachariah 12, and the Lord's reign in Zechariah 14, the battle in the heavenlies is described in Revelation 12

Place and Event

Looking over the valley in 1799, Napoleon said all the armies of the earth could maneuver their forces there, that there was no place more suited for war, and it was the most natural battleground on earth.

This war will be a series of battles, military campaigns as entire nations come against Israel. Demonic forces are behind the hostilities against God's covenant people.

A current concern: if Iran gets nuclear weapons, there will be a sure coalition against Israel with the nations of Syria and Lebanon. Adding the support of the Turks would strengthen that coalition. If Russia joins them the climate will be right for a battle to be waged from the north against the nation of Israel. God will never allow for her destruction but with the current acquisition of weapons and the constant tensions in the area, a military strike against Israel seems imminent.

(Pastor Bryan outlined this scenario at the beginning of the Tribulation period, before Armageddon: because God will always guard over Israel, a military campaign against her will be thwarted supernaturally by His hand with events such as earthquakes, confusion on the battlefield, atmospheric events, and perhaps disease. The antichrist could rise to power because he takes credit for this miraculous rescue of Israel. The ultimate diplomatic move for him could be to allow the construction of the third Temple on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Many archeologists believe the Dome of the Rock isn't on the exact location of Solomon's Temple, and therefore could remain in place. Allowing the Jewish people to construct a temple nearby would be a sign of cooperation and diplomacy, and could be the foundation of a middle east peace treaty. But it will be short-lived, lasting only three and a half years.)

The WAR of Armageddon

The United States has been involved in 29 military conflicts of all scales and sizes, and there have been a recorded 1,314,971 military deaths. In all of humankind there have been 83 million deaths associated with conflicts.

Zach 12:2-3

Rev 14:20 Blood as deep and high as horses bridle for nearly 200 miles (1,600 stadia, full length of Israel) as attacks come from every direction.

General Douglas MacArthur understood that a such war was coming, and in Tokyo made this statement, "We had our last chance... Armageddon will be at our door."

Purpose of the Antichrist starting the war:

Satan, who is the ruler of the air, will empower him to try to destroy Israel and the Jewish people so Christ won't have a seed (nation) to rescue. Because he believes the earth is his domain, he wants to try to stop Jesus' millennial reign.

3 groups will be represented in the war:

- All nations of world, including the nation of Israel and the Jewish people

- Antichrist, false prophet, Satan and demons (powers of evil)

- Jesus, angels and saints

In his book "The End Times, theologian Herman A. Hoyt describes the scope and size of this war:

- The center is Jerusalem

- Kings (governments) from the four corners of the earth will converge with

- 400 million total soldiers

- Demonic forces from the center of the earth will erupt

- From what seems to be outer space (heavenlies), Jesus will return.

- Kings from the east will come with 200 million soldiers.

Seven major events will precede the war:

- Euphrates River dries up (perhaps from Turkish dams along the river)

- Antichrist's Armies gathered (Rev 16;12-16)

- Fall of Jerusalem (Zech 12:1-3, 14:1-2)

- 2nd coming of Christ (Zech 14:4)

- Rescue of Jerusalem (Zech 12:1-9)

- Remnant delivered (Is 34:1-7)

- End of beast (Rev 19:20)

Rev 16:14 talks of men battling on earth as well as demons battling the heavenly hosts

The WINNING of Armageddon

Who wins? Jesus Himself, along with thousands of millions of angels, and all the saints!!

Why does God allow Armageddon?

- Judge the nations that hate Israel

- Judge Israel for rejecting Christ as Messiah

- Demonstrate that Jesus is Lord

- Judge wickedness

According Romans 8:37 - We are more than conquerers

It Is Well With My Soul, by Horatio Spafford

Background of this hymn: Spafford had lost his business in the great Chicago fire and sent his family to Europe. En route, their ship sank and he received a telegram from his wife with two words: "Saved Alone." His 4 children perished at sea. As Spafford sailed to join his wife and they came to the area where the ship sank, the ship's captain alerted him. As he looked over the railing into the water where his children died, he wrote to his sister that he knew his family was safe, folded in the arms of Jesus. He knew he would be there too but in the meantime he would serve and praise the Lord.

He wrote a poem that became a treasured hymn:

When peace like a river attendeth my way,

When sorrows like sea billows roll,

Whatever my lot Thou hast taught me to say

It is well, it is well with my soul.

The last verse to this beautiful song:

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

Is it WELL with your soul? Click HERE to see how it CAN be!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

The Great Tribulation

The Great Tribulation will be a time -

of judgment. When a holy and just God pours out His wrath upon the earth.

for the Lord to prepare and redefine Israel, getting ready for Christ's return. Many if the nation of Israel will accept Jesus as Messiah during this time (Deut 4:30-31, Rev 7:1-8 )

God will be faithful to the promises He's made to the nation of Israel, and the promises He's made to the Church.

Daniel 12 tells of times of terror, but also times of God's faithfulness to Israel and the remnant of believers. (Michael the archangel is the personal guardian over the nation of Israel.)

The Terror in the Great Tribulation
Dr J. Dwight Pentecost gives ten descriptive biblical words that describe this time: wrath, judgment, indignation, trial, trouble, destruction, darkness, desolation, overturning and punishment. He concludes his thoughts with this statement, "No passage can be found to alleviate to any degree whatsoever the severity of this time that shall come upon the earth."

War against Israel (Ezekiel 38-39)
This will likely be one of the first crises after the rapture of the Church. An Islamic-Israeli war could set the stage for the Antichrist's rise to power and subsequent peace treaty (Dan 9:20-27). Israel will entrust her future to the very man who is determined to wipe them out. Jerusalem will become the political center of the world.

Halfway through the Great Tribulation, the Antichrist will turn on Israel and marshal the world against them to wipe them out once and for all. But that's not the end... Jesus will return, defeat the Antichrist and bind Satan for 1000 years.

Scary stuff, huh?? But those who have placed their trust in Jesus as Lord can rest easy and KNOW that things are happening according to God's will and plan, and that their eternity is secure and they can live with NO FEAR! Click HERE to learn how YOU can know Jesus as Lord!

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

A Biblical Timeline for the Last Days

These are notes from my pastor's sermon series entitled "Last Days." While I am a copious note-taker (and don't want them to go to waste!), I do NOT intend that they replace Pastor Bryan's preaching! Hopefully they will serve as a helpful outline as you listen to the actual sermon, which is available for viewing here:
http://www.firstroanoke.com/HTML/Resources/0410-LastDays/053010/Viewer.shtml

A BIBLICAL TIME LINE FOR THE LAST DAYS
May 30, 2010 ~ Dr Bryan Smith, First Baptist Church Roanoke VA

“’Seventy 'sevens' are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish the transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy. "Know and understand this: From the issuing of the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven 'sevens,' and sixty-two 'sevens.' It will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble. After the sixty-two 'sevens,' the Anointed One will be cut off and will have nothing. The people of the ruler who will come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end will come like a flood: War will continue until the end, and desolations have been decreed. He will confirm a covenant with many for one 'seven.' In the middle of the 'seven' he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on a wing [of the temple] he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him. ‘" Daniel 9:24-27

Daniel received this vision as an old man, and is considered to be one of the greatest prophecies he ever received. It gives us a reliable time line that is built around Israel, the Jewish people, Israel and the temple.

1. The Message of the Prayerful Servant

- Prayer is crucial in the life of the believer and we approach Him with humble hearts. We see God for Who He is, and then realized how sinful we are. Confession of sin is important so we can remember and understand the price that Jesus paid for us, and then repent and go a new direction.

- Daniel was extremely weary as he prayed, but the Bible teaches us to pray without ceasing. “Pray it through” refers to continually praying for a situation until it’s resolved. Daniel was one of the king’s advisors, wise and well-respected, but he knew the importance of seeking God. The Lord Jesus set an example as He persevered in prayer.

- The Lord God answered Daniel’s persistent prayers by sending angelic messengers. Remember that much of what we face is spiritual in nature (Eph 6:12). In Daniel chapter 10, the angel tells Daniel that soon as Daniel humbled himself and began to pray, the Lord heard his prayer and dispatched the messenger. But during those three weeks that Daniel prayed, the messenger had been detained by the “prince of the Persian kingdom.” This was likely a fallen angel (demon) who resisted him for 21 days until Michael (one of the chief princes of heaven) came to help! It isn’t a stretch to believe that even today demons have been assigned (for a limited season of time) to afflict nations, governments, and even groups of people. So it’s crucial that we PRAY.

- 70 weeks decreed – means that it is SURE, it WILL happen according to God’s time table, and was given to and is based on the nation of Israel. Three of those things have been accomplished in the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ: finish THE transgression, which was the rejection of the Jesus. There is only one sin that will keep you from going to Heaven - the sin of disbelief, not believing on Jesus Christ as Savior (John 3:36).

2. The Meaning of the Seventy Weeks

To understand this prophecy we must use the lunar year (360 day year), which most Bible scholars believe is seventy weeks of YEARS. The time line began in the Jewish month of Nisan in 445 BC. This is when the decree was given by the Persian king Artaxerxes I to rebuild Jerusalem (Nehemiah 2).

- The first 69 weeks of years ended on Palm Sunday in AD 32 when Jesus made His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. At that point in time, the Anointed One (Jesus) was cut off (crucified).

- We are now living in God’s “prophetic pause” as we wait for the 70th week. This will be the 7-year period of the Great Tribulation, and it will begin when the Antichrist makes a peace treaty between Israel and her Arab neighbors and is allowed to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. (There are currently people in Israel who are collecting materials and working on elements for the temple).

- Pastor Bryan and many of us believe that the church will be raptured prior to this 7th week. People will still come to know Jesus and there will be 144,000 Jews who will testify and be protected (Revelation 7:4).

3. The Majesty of the Returning Lord

- At the end of the 70th week, Jesus will return with His church and will defeat the Antichrist and his armies in the battle at Armageddon. Satan will be bound for 1000 years and the Lord will set up his earthly kingdom and reign from Jerusalem.

We are currently living in the “Age of Grace” or the “Church Age.” As Paul taught in Romans 11, there is a “partial hardening of Israel” because of their rejection of Jesus as Messiah. But understand, Jesus WILL return and He WILL be recognized for Who He is.

What about you? Do YOU know Jesus? Scripture teaches us that one day EVERY knee will bow and EVERY tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Confess Him NOW and click HERE to learn how.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Headline News: Where Did They Go?

P - Place of the church (not mentioned in prophecy)
r - Restraint (church age) ends
e - Exempt from Tribulation (world is judged, not the church)
t - Twenty-four elders (bride of Christ)
r - Rapture
i - Imminent
b - Blessed hope, Titus 2:13

- Interesting study of the 24 elders: There are 12 references to them, and there is scriptural evidence that they are the raptured church. Among those references:

The word "elders" comes from a word that translates "congregation"
The number 24 corresponds with groups in the levitical priesthood
Believers are considered priests, and are referred to as "the holy priesthood of Christ" (1 Peter 5:12)
They are seated on thrones (Rev 3:21), which angels aren't allowed to do
They are reigning with Christ (Rev 3:21), which believers, not angels, will do
They are wearing crowns (Rev 3), which angels aren't allowed to do
They are clothed in white and acknowledged before the angels (Rev 3:5)
Only the church can sing the song of the elders (Rev 5:9-10)
The elders are distinguished from angels (Rev 5:11)
They are in heaven worshiping WITH the angels (Rev 7:11)

Nothing else needs to happen on the Biblical calendar for Jesus to come for His church.

2. The Imperative Instruction in the Rapture

- It could happen at any moment because the signs of His return to earth are here. Rev 1:7, everyone will see Jesus when He returns. We aren't looking for something to happen, but for someone to return!

At the Day of Prayer that followed the Sept 11th attacks, the song "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" was sung, but the following verse was omitted:

Did we in our strength confide, our striving would be losing,
were if not for the right man on our side, a man of God's own choosing.
Dost ask who that might be? Christ Jesus it is He;
Lord Sabaoth His name, From age to age the same,
and He must win the battle.

- Live like you're dying, and remember what He has called us to do - reach the lost (Matt 28:18-20)!!

3. The Heartfelt Hope for the Rapture

At least five-fold:
The hope that Jesus Himself will return (v16)
The hope that the resurrection is coming (v16)
The hope that the rapture WILL happen (v17)
The hope that God's family will be reunited again (v17)
The hope that strengthens us for today (v18)

We don't let God's Word comfort us because we get busy and distracted, but when the diagnosis or tragedy comes, the things of the world lose their luster.

Mentioned by Pastor Bryan:
Late Great Planet Earth (book), Hal Lindsey
A Thief in the Night (movie)

Another interesting read: Left Behind series, by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins

WHEN the Rapture occurs, do you know what will happen to YOU? If not, click HERE to read my testimony. Jesus LOVES you and wants YOU to be included in the Rapture of His church!! Don't be left behind!!

When Rome Rises Again

Gold head: Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonian Empire, recognized as supreme, wealthy, power and the greatest kingdom in history to that point (Dan 2:38). The rest of the statue represents FUTURE empires.
Silver chest: Medo-Persian Empire, with a huge army that would conquer Babylon in 593 BC (Dan 2:39)
Bronze abdomen: Greek Empire, led by Alexander the Great (Dan 2:39). Interesting account recorded by the Jewish historian Josephus: When Alexander the Great approached Jerusalem, the High Priest came out to meet him, wearing his full priestly dress. Bowing before the king, the priest told him that he recognized him from Daniel’s prophecy! Alexander the Great was so impressed that he gave Jerusalem and Israel favored status in his kingdom.
Iron legs: Roman Empire. This showed its great strength, but also that the kingdom would be divided into eastern (Byzantine) and western empires. (Dan 2:40)
Clay and Iron feet: Confederated 2nd Roman Empire, with ten toes representing ten countries from Europe and Eurasia. (Dan 2:41-43)
Stone cut without hands that smashed the statue: Kingdom and reign of Jesus (Dan 2:34-35, 44-45)

In Daniel 7, Nebuchadnezzar’s dream was somewhat repeated in Daniel’s OWN dream:

Lion with wings of an eagle: Babylon
Lop-sided bear with 3 ribs in his mouth: Medo-Persia
Leopard with 4 wings and 4 heads: Greece
Terrible beast with iron teeth and bronze claws: Rome
10 horns: Confederation of 2nd Roman Empire
Little horn that uproots the 10 horns: Antichrist

2. The Empire Reborn

1948 – establishment of the state of Israel (1st prophetic event) and NATO formed. (Also, a new organization was formed to unite European countries for lasting peace against Soviet aggression)
1957 – European Common Market formed
1993 – European Union formed
2002 – Euro became the standard European currency in 12 nations

European Union. The EU now has 27 member nations, and is one of the most prominent governing bodies in the world. This is not just an alliance, but the formation of a unified governing body centered around the European Commission, the European Parliament and a presidency that rotates among countries. Sir Winston Churchill advocated and envisioned a “United States of Europe” and it is taking place NOW.

All of the nations that made up the original Roman Empire are included in the EU except for ONE: ISRAEL. Israel was barred from EU because they refused a land-for-peace treaty that would divide Jerusalem.

Ruler. The Antichrist will solidify his power by forming a peace treaty that will unite Israel with her Arab neighbors. His power will come from Satan himself and foretold in Rev 13:2, “The beast [Antichrist] I saw resembled a leopard, but had feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion. The dragon [Satan] gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority.”

He will rise to popularity and power QUICKLY, which will easily happen with global technology and sites like YouTube, Twitter and social networking.

Globalization. Consider the current mindset shift in this generation from “national interest” to “global community”. As we move toward globalization, nations will agree to give up some freedoms, liberties and sovereignties for the promise of peace. Things are happening EVERYDAY

European leader Paul-Henri Spaak served as Belgian Prime Minister as well as several other high-level EU positions including secretary general of NATO. In the 1950s he gave an impassioned speech and stated:
“We do not need another committee – we have too many already. What we want is a man of sufficient stature to hold the allegiance of all people and to lift us out of the economic mores into which we are sinking. Send us such a man, and be he good or evil, god or devil, we will receive him.”

3. The Warning Received

Scripture is trustworthy, especially Bible prophecy: it WILL happen.
The statue had a downward nature: things will go from good to bad, bad to worse.
The Lord has given us time: respond is NOW.
Jesus is the Rock not only shatters, but the Rock that SAVES.
Believe and obey.

The things foretold in Scripture WILL happen, whether the world believes it or not. What about you? Is Jesus YOUR Rock? If not, He can be and He WANTS to be. Click HERE to read my testimony.

Monday, June 28, 2010

Islamic Jihad - Clear and Present Danger

2nd largest world religion, more Muslims than evangelicals in England, in 2nd largest religion in Eurpoe, rivals Judaism in America
Fastest growing religion in the world, more Muslims than Methodists and make up more than 6% of the US population. The majority of the world Muslim community is in Asia.
If current birthrates continue as in present, half the global birthrate in the decades to come will be represented by Muslims.

The Religion of Islam

1. Monotheistic faith - one god, Allah. Many mistakenly believe Allah is the same as Jehovah, but this is NOT true - they are NOT the same. Belief in ONE god doesn't mean belief in the TRUE God, and as John 14:6 tells us, JESUS is the way, the truth, and the life and NO ONE comes to the Father except through HIM.

2. Founded by Mohammed in 600AD and based on visions he first believed were from demons. After he had been choked three times, one of his 15 wives convinced him that the angel Gabriel was the messenger of his visions. Because of the polytheistic culture they lived in and the belief that there was only one god, they ‘named’ their god “Allah” after the moon god their family worshiped. His promotion of Islam turned to military agression where he said that Allah told him to fight people until they became Muslim. He was on a holy struggle to convert or conquer until his death in 632 AD.

3. Qur'an - holy text of Islam. Mohammed was illiterate, so he memorized the teachings he received and recited them to his followers. These writings were compiled into the Qur’an and are supplemented by the Hedith, a collection of sayings and traditions that influence their law, culture and morality.

(The Qur'an and Hedith are not equal to scripture. The Bible was written by revelation from God to over 40 men over a period of 1500 years, and scripture fits seamlessly together. The Qur'an and Hedith contradict each other.)

4. The Teachings of Islam, 5 Pillars

To recite the Islamic creed (Shahadah) that "there is no god but Allah, and Mohammad is his messenger"
To pray while bowing toward Mecca 5x a day (the call to prayer)
To fast during the daylight hours of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan
To give alms to the poor (2.5% of their income)
To make a pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca at least once in one's lifetime

Some Muslims believe in a 6th pillar, Jihad (holy war), which is basically two battles: the greater - the struggle with self, the lesser – the struggle against infidels (nonbelievers). Many Muslims believe the right to wage jihad is a command from Mohammad and is to be obeyed with the goal of worldwide domination. Mohammad was a warrior in his lifetime, as were the caliphs that followed him. Some of our presidents have claimed Islam to be a peaceful religion, but they are mistaken or misguided if they believe the essence of Islam is peace.

5. Two primary sects: Sunni (moderates, 80%) and the Shiite (15%, radicals). The primary difference is the belief in who was to succeed Mohammed after his death. Both sects are committed to worldwide expansion of Islam, and both recognize the "Muslim brotherhood," although they've enjoyed less than 200 years of peace since the beginning of the religion 1300 years ago.

Interesting fact: Iranian president Amadinejad was instructed by and is a member of an ultra-radical Shiite sect that was illegal in the 1980s when the Ayatollah Khomeini was president.

Muslim brotherhood is curious, especially in response to radical terrorist attacks: even among the moderates there is rarely a condemnation of terrorist acts, and among most Muslim nations there is rejoicing in the streets over the deaths associated with terrorism. When a Muslim converts to faith in Christ, they face the threat of persecution or torture or even death from their neighbors, government or family members.

6. Wahabbism: the growth of Islam by adherance to strict Islamic teachings. Sixty percent of mosques are funded through this movement. As the Muslim community grows, a domed mosque and a towering minaret are constructed as well as a nearby madrasah (school of indoctrination). The minaret is where the call to prayer is made. The goal of the movement is to change the community to be more Islamic in nature, and is embraced and promoted by Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. In fact, besides "Mohammad," "Osama" is one of the most popular boys name among Muslims.

The Role and Reach of Islam in World Events

1. Indoctrination. Millions of children worldwide are being indoctrinated in the teachings of the Qur'an and Shari'a law in madrasahs. Compare these numbers: there are currently 24,000 public schools and colleges in America; while in the Muslim country of Indonesia alone, there are 37,362 madrasahs and most are controlled by Muslim clerics. As some American schools are banning Christianity, others are growing in acceptance of Islam by allowing Muslim students to openly practice their faith and introduce others to it.

2. Chaos. The teaching of Islam is to eradicate the world of infidels, foremost are Christians and Jews, and to create worldwide chaos that will usher in their promised ‘messiah’ or ‘mahdi’ (may-DIE), the 12th Imam. Muslims believe that he has been hidden by God and will come back and rule at the end of the world. He will bring an end to tyranny and injustice (and some believe that Jesus will come in behind him to help).

3. Jihad. Part of the chaos that the radical Muslims hope to bring on is the destruction of the Great Satan (United States) and the Little Satan (Israel). It’s believed that 20% of Muslims worldwide are radicals, an estimated 300 million. Muslim extremists believe that if you die in jihad, you are guaranteed to enter paradise.

Iranian president Amadinejhad denies the Jewish Holocaust, but then demands war against Jews and Christians for the purpose of ushering in the 12th Imam. This hatred of the west appears to be at its apex, and the events of Sept 11th are seen by some as the beginnings of the bloody confrontation that will bring the chaos desired by Islamic extremists.

4. "Evangelism." Islam is the fastest growing world religion due to the peaceful movement of Muslims into a country, and through evangelism and high birth rates the country is converted into an islamic state.

Interesting birth rate statistics: For a culture to sustain itself, its birthrate culture must be AT LEAST 2.11. The United States is currently 2.11 ONLY because of the Hispanic demographic. The point-of-no-return birthrate percentage for a culture is 1.8 at which point that culture will cease to exist. Canada is at 1.5, the average European birthrate (France, Spain, Germany, Italy, GB, etc) is 1.38. The corresponding birthrate of Muslims is an impressive 5.0, which easily makes it the fastest growing religion in Europe.

5. Opposition of Israel. According to the prophecy recorded in Ezekiel 38-39 (battle of Armeggedon), every nation listed is now primarily Muslim except for Russia, but in a few years nearly 40% of the Russian army will be Muslim. There is a prophetic coming together of Islamic nations with the common goal of Israel's destruction.

The Responsibility of the Church toward Islam

1. Preach the truth courageously. DO NOT COMPROMISE the message of the hope of the Gospel. Allah is NOT Jehovah, and beware of any attempts to equate them.

2. Remember that the warfare is spiritual. “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. “ ~Eph 6:1

The vast majority of Muslims in the world are NOT on a violent jihad, and are "nominal" in their beliefs or are Muslims in name-only. They don't hold to all the beliefs and tenets, just as many who call themselves "Christian" aren't followers of Jesus. Many are kind and benevolent and choose to interpret the Qur'an only in a spiritual and allegorical fashion.

3. Remember that God loves Muslims and wants them to be saved. “The Lord is… patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” ~2 Peter 3:9

If you don't know where you would spend eternity, click HERE to read my testimony. Jesus LOVES you so much He gave His LIFE for you!!

Sunday, June 27, 2010

God's Final Countdown

These are notes from my pastor's sermon series entitled "Last Days." While I am a copious note-taker (and don't want them to go to waste!), I do NOT intend that they replace Pastor Bryan's preaching! Hopefully they will serve as a helpful outline as you listen to the actual sermon, which is available for viewing here:  http://www.firstroanoke.com/HTML/Resources/0410-LastDays/04-18-10/Viewer.shtml
This is the FIRST sermon in the series.

GOD'S FINAL COUNTDOWN
Apr 18, 2010 - Dr Bryan Smith, First Baptist Church Roanoke VA

"But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God -- having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them. They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over weak-willed women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth."
2 Tim 3:1-7

We live in interesting times, times of danger and uncertainty. The eruption of an Icelandic volcano in the spring of 2010 has affected hundreds of thousands of people around the world. The National Day of Prayer in May was been determined to be unconstitutional. A Russian nuclear plant is scheduled to open in August 2010. Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has openly declared that Israel should be "wiped off the map" and it's reported that Iran will soon have the necessary components to build nuclear weaponry. Fifty-three percent of Americans believe that something will happen in this century that will fulfill Biblical prophecy. Interesting fact: 27% of the Bible relates to prophecy, and God is revealing it to us!

The study of Bible prophecy is valuable. No Christian would doubt the truthfulness of any Old Testament prophecies that pertain to the incarnation (birth) of Jesus because those prophecies have come true, but understand this: there is THREE TIMES as much prophecy regarding the SECOND coming of Jesus! We should study prophecy not only to grow in knowledge, but to increase our love for the Lord and be better prepared to serve Him.

1. The Importance of Bible Prophecy
Rev 1:3 teaches us that studying prophecy brings blessing.
- It reminds us that God is in control (Rev 19:6). We can face tough times with greater confidence and peace knowing that NOTHING happens to us that hasn't been filtered through the hand of God. Regardless of what happens in this life, we know He is on His throne and love us perfectly. (John 14:27)
- It motivates us to live holy lives. We will want to be ready for His return. (1 Peter 1:15-16)
- It helps us keep proper priorities: making right decisions, knowing Christ and making Him known (2 Peter 3:10-13). Like the final minutes of a game, we should keep our eyes focused on our goal as time runs out.
- It gives us hope for troubled times. God's promises are trustworthy and encourage us in godly living (1 John 3:3, Titus 2:13-14).

2. The Immediateness of God's Final Countdown
Many of us may be a part of that final generation when Jesus returns. Some of the signs that Jesus' return is near:
   revolutions (Luke 21:9),
   rise of false prophets (Mark 24:4-5),
   wars and rumors of wars (Matt 24:6),
   earthquakes in strange places (Matt 24:7),
   persecution of believers (Matt 24:9), etc.
The Bible is dependable and we can look forward to Jesus' return because the Bible says so!

Three Views of Biblical prophecy:
Postmillennialism - the thousand year earthly reign of Jesus isn't a literal period of time. This view is that now is the golden age of the church and things should become more and more Christian before Jesus returns. This was a view at the turn of the 20th century, but has isn't widely held today.
Amillennialism - no literal thousand year earthly reign of Jesus and believes that Satan was bound at the first coming of Jesus. It teaches that at the end of time Jesus will return and usher in eternity. There isn't a Great Tribulation period.
Premillennialism - the thousand year earthly reign is a literal, future event that will occur after Jesus returns for the Church.
   Additional premillennial positions:
   Pre-trib(ulation): Jesus will return before the 7 year tribulation period, and then reign on earth 1000 years
   Mid-trib: Jesus will return in the middle of the tribulation period (and then the millennial reign)
   Post-trib: Jesus will return at the end of the tribulation period (and then the millennial reign)

Other terms we'll study:
Rapture: 1 Thess 4:15-17, Jesus' return for His church
Antichrist: Satan's superman (2 Thess, 1 and 2 John, Revelation) who rises to power during the Great Tribulation
Great Tribulation: 7 year period & reign of the antichrist
Mark of the Beast: sign of allegiance to the antichrist. It will be require to buy or sell goods.
Armegeddon: site of a tremendous battle that will occur near the ancient city of Meggido, where Jesus destroys the enemies of God and of Israel
Second Coming: bodily, glorious, literal return of Jesus to earth to reign from Jerusalem as King of all the nations
Millennium: 1000 year earthly reign of Christ following the Great Tribulation
Great White Throne Judgment: the final judgment of the nations (Rev 20:11-15) when God resurrects ALL people and judges them, and then delivers His people to glory before He banishes the lost to an eternity in hell.

One CLEAR sign of the last days: the formation of the state of Israel in 1948. Much of what has been prophesied in Matthew 24 and 2 Timothy 3 is happening NOW. While it's obvious that things are getting crazy, we need to remember that earth is not our home - our FINAL home is in Heaven! We shouldn't just GET ready, we should STAY ready! Pray! Be in God's Word! Live a holy life! Remember: His return will be a surprise, like a thief in the night.

3. The Importunity of God's Invitation
2 Cor 6:2 teaches us that NOW is the time to believe and trust in Jesus because He could return at ANY moment!

If you DON'T know where you stand with God and where you'll spend eternity, click HERE to read my testimony. Whether you believe it or not, Jesus IS Lord!

I Hope 4 Him

Pages

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Israel's Role In Christ's Return

Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse

When Jesus Comes Again

Preparing For Armageddon

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

The Great Tribulation

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

A Biblical Timeline for the Last Days

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Headline News: Where Did They Go?

When Rome Rises Again

Monday, June 28, 2010

Islamic Jihad - Clear and Present Danger

Sunday, June 27, 2010

God's Final Countdown

Blog Archive

Compassion International

Counter

Followers

Facebook Friends

Feedjit

Beth Moore

Priscilla Shirer

Proverbs 31