If there is a link could you post it for us? You're brothers and sisters would like to rejoice with you in all of the things God has done in your life.
Thanks!
Full Version: Stephen, Where Is Your Testimony?
Hey Stephen. I was looking around and couldn't find your testimony of how you came to the Lord anywhere. You've been here for quite a awhile and thought you would have one up? Did you post it somewhere? And how you were baptized in the Holy Spirit?
If there is a link could you post it for us? You're brothers and sisters would like to rejoice with you in all of the things God has done in your life.
Thanks!
If there is a link could you post it for us? You're brothers and sisters would like to rejoice with you in all of the things God has done in your life.
Thanks!
Neither have I ever seen or heard of Stephen's born-again experience and salvation testimony.
This is an important aspect with regard to said subject's credibility and his ability to rightly divide the Word of Truth.
Is he, in fact, hearing from the Holy Spirit, or is he relating fables and or personal religious opinions to advance the adversary's agenda and kingdom?
This is an important aspect with regard to said subject's credibility and his ability to rightly divide the Word of Truth.
Is he, in fact, hearing from the Holy Spirit, or is he relating fables and or personal religious opinions to advance the adversary's agenda and kingdom?
Is that a requirement here? I have not given one either, nor do I think it is necessary unless I'm looking for people to say things like "oh wow, how wonderful" or some such things. Testimonies are nice but they do not make lasting impressions in others, they're nice to read for the moment, then the moment fades and the people are onto the next "wow".
Not to mention...some peoples entire life is a testimony, do you have time for that?
I think it's rude and mocking to make a thread such as this one about an individual-because I don't see any amount of genuine sincerity at all. Ya'll, we have got to handle our brethren better, that's all there is to it, if we cannot love our very own brothers and sisters IN Messiah Jesus, then there is no way we can love our enemies and we fail on all Gospel accounts and are only thus walking after our own flesh and glory.
Not to mention...some peoples entire life is a testimony, do you have time for that?
I think it's rude and mocking to make a thread such as this one about an individual-because I don't see any amount of genuine sincerity at all. Ya'll, we have got to handle our brethren better, that's all there is to it, if we cannot love our very own brothers and sisters IN Messiah Jesus, then there is no way we can love our enemies and we fail on all Gospel accounts and are only thus walking after our own flesh and glory.
QUOTE (~Selah~ @ Dec 3 2008, 08:40 PM) 
I think it's rude and mocking to make a thread such as this one about an individual
Then meddle somewhere else.
Rev 12:11 And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of the word of their testimony; and they loved not their life even unto death.
QUOTE (researcher @ Dec 3 2008, 11:18 PM)
QUOTE (~Selah~ @ Dec 3 2008, 08:40 PM)
I think it's rude and mocking to make a thread such as this one about an individual
Then meddle somewhere else.
On a public forum my entry is not considered meddling Jeff. What's happening to you? There is a better way to receive what you ask for and the way you are going about it is all wrong, Scripturally.
QUOTE (researcher @ Dec 3 2008, 11:18 PM)
Rev 12:11 And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of the word of their testimony; and they loved not their life even unto death.
That is the testimony of Jesus Christ which they carry, that's how we overcome.
QUOTE (~Selah~ @ Dec 3 2008, 09:23 PM)
QUOTE (researcher @ Dec 3 2008, 11:18 PM)
Rev 12:11 And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of the word of their testimony; and they loved not their life even unto death.
That is the testimony of Jesus Christ which they carry, that's how we overcome.
Rev 12:11
And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb,
and because of the WORD of THEIR testimony;
and they loved not their life even unto death.
Their Testimony.
No one knows it unless it's spoken.
QUOTE (researcher @ Dec 4 2008, 12:32 AM)
QUOTE (~Selah~ @ Dec 3 2008, 09:23 PM)
QUOTE (researcher @ Dec 3 2008, 11:18 PM)
Rev 12:11 And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of the word of their testimony; and they loved not their life even unto death.
That is the testimony of Jesus Christ which they carry, that's how we overcome.
Rev 12:11
And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb,
and because of the WORD of THEIR testimony;
and they loved not their life even unto death.
Their Testimony.
No one knows it unless it's spoken.
Well like I said previously, some people are a walking testimony, do you have time for that? This is a forum Jeff, we cannot possibly know what is going on in peoples day to day lives nor all of what they've been through. I sort of share bits and pieces of my walk in various posts, rather than in one whole topic. Why do you need that from another member? And why ask in this manner? Send him a private message, man to man, brother to brother. This is mockery to request this publically, all it is going to create is animosity. There is a better way to get what you ask...
QUOTE (~Selah~ @ Dec 3 2008, 09:37 PM)
QUOTE (researcher @ Dec 4 2008, 12:32 AM)
QUOTE (~Selah~ @ Dec 3 2008, 09:23 PM)
QUOTE (researcher @ Dec 3 2008, 11:18 PM)
Rev 12:11 And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of the word of their testimony; and they loved not their life even unto death.
That is the testimony of Jesus Christ which they carry, that's how we overcome.
Rev 12:11
And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb,
and because of the WORD of THEIR testimony;
and they loved not their life even unto death.
Their Testimony.
No one knows it unless it's spoken.
Well like I said previously, some people are a walking testimony, do you have time for that? This is a forum Jeff, we cannot possibly know what is going on in peoples day to day lives nor all of what they've been through. I sort of share bits and pieces of my walk in various posts, rather than in one whole topic. Why do you need that from another member? And why ask in this manner? Send him a private message, man to man, brother to brother. This is mockery to request this publically, all it is going to create is animosity. There is a better way to get what you ask...
Stephen assumes to be a teacher. Some people would actually like to hear his testimony which he's never given. When I read other's testimonies I am awed by God's power and can rejoice with them that God has moved in their lives. Testimonies build faith.
QUOTE (researcher @ Dec 3 2008, 11:41 PM)
Stephen assumes to be a teacher. Some people would actually like to hear his testimony which he's never given. When I read other's testimonies I am awed by God's power and can rejoice with them that God has moved in their lives. Testimonies build faith.
That may be so...but it's not a requirement and your intentions are negative by your first sentence. You are more or less looking for some sort of info to use as ammo on him, just as you've done in another thread about another member. You are not working on the right side Jeff, you are working on the left. Is this appropriate behaviour for a person such as yourself who claims to be led by Jesus Christ? I think not.
It's depressing to see you take this turn. If you feel persecuted, then rejoice and pray, don't lash out.
QUOTE (~Selah~ @ Dec 3 2008, 09:50 PM)
QUOTE (researcher @ Dec 3 2008, 11:41 PM)
Stephen assumes to be a teacher. Some people would actually like to hear his testimony which he's never given. When I read other's testimonies I am awed by God's power and can rejoice with them that God has moved in their lives. Testimonies build faith.
That may be so...but it's not a requirement and your intentions are negative by your first sentence. You are more or less looking for some sort of info to use as ammo on him, just as you've done in another thread about another member. You are not working on the right side Jeff, you are working on the left. Is this appropriate behaviour for a person such as yourself who claims to be led by Jesus Christ? I think not.
It's depressing to see you take this turn. If you feel persecuted, then rejoice and pray, don't lash out.I merely put into a topic what many many others have asked of Stephen. You haven't been here long enough to know everything Stephen has said over the last year.
Such as calling the Holy Spirit Satan.
[/quote]
Such as calling the Holy Spirit Satan.
[/quote]
Do you have a link Jeff? Just wondering if it's something that's been misconstrued or if it's a blatant heretical comment.
Ta x
Such as calling the Holy Spirit Satan.
[/quote]
Do you have a link Jeff? Just wondering if it's something that's been misconstrued or if it's a blatant heretical comment.
Ta x
and again....
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences
contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences
contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
QUOTE (researcher @ Dec 3 2008, 09:03 PM)
Hey Stephen. I was looking around and couldn't find your testimony of how you came to the Lord anywhere. You've been here for quite a awhile and thought you would have one up? Did you post it somewhere? And how you were baptized in the Holy Spirit?
If there is a link could you post it for us? You're brothers and sisters would like to rejoice with you in all of the things God has done in your life.
Thanks!
If there is a link could you post it for us? You're brothers and sisters would like to rejoice with you in all of the things God has done in your life.
Thanks!
Good Morning, Researcher :
I admire your determination.
I also had that very thought back May 2008. And Stephen did provide the following info.
Except my theme was posting stories of miracles. ( see below )
And indeed, I feel that Stephen is a foundation of strength at this forum.
Although, Stephen and I ( in my opinion, not his opinion ) may have differences. I count
on his feedback and I will examine instructions he post, whether I am lead to follow or
not.
I find that some members at this forum try to box people into units/groups and then target
anything opposite of what they each think is Biblical and Righteous.
That is why, we each are working out our Salvation with trembling and fear, right ?
Now, I feel comfortable posting this, I will promptly out of respect toward Stephen,
PM him on this feedback of mine. I think manners are important.
And I see the actions of the Holy Spirit in many many post experiences of yours, Researcher.
Would you like to post a story under the following Miracle thread ?
Blessings !
POST #4
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...t=0&start=0
If Miracles Do Not Happen, After The Apostles . . ., Are these 3 stories imagination ? Post your stories . . .
May 9 2008, 09:57 AM
POST#32
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...18866&st=30
QUOTE (Stephen @ May 8 2008, 03:25 PM)
CSA,
True. I am an "no-nonsense" guy and consider the Bible to be the only reliable source for understanding human existence and what this life is all about. I generally do not discuss my personal experiences, but only stick to the direct task of spreading the Word.
I will give you one, but no more. I was a persecutor of the christian ideology for many years and directly belittled those who witnessed it. I could wipe out anyone with ease intellectually.I was once challenged by a virtual mental genius with photographic memory and 4 point university status whom I had great respect for. He said that I should read the Bible. I said ok .... and I will prove to you that it is all folly for those who entertain it. I bought a Bible and began reading it and I have never put it down since. The Lord has shown me much and has actually proved to me that His Word is exactly what He claims it is without a doubt. I can see in vivid living color what the Bible presents as truth and it is mind boggeling. As far as getting through life, He has always made a way to get me this far, even when I was in rebellion. Things don't always go the way I would like, but He tells me that His grace is sufficient and that this temporal life is just a stepping stone to a fabulous eternity with no ending. There you have it. Now back to the task at hand.
38And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.
39But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.
40For he that is not against us is on our part.
41For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
42And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.
Mark 9:38-42
46Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest. 47And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him,
48And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.
49And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us.
50And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us.
Luke 9:46-50
Stephen is a blood-purchased, born-again believer in the Lord Jesus Christ as the conglomerate testimony of his postings is evidence. He is also one of those 'little ones' that Christ refers to, as are all truly born-again believers whether Jewish or Gentile.
39But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.
40For he that is not against us is on our part.
41For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
42And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.
Mark 9:38-42
46Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest. 47And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him,
48And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.
49And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us.
50And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us.
Luke 9:46-50
Stephen is a blood-purchased, born-again believer in the Lord Jesus Christ as the conglomerate testimony of his postings is evidence. He is also one of those 'little ones' that Christ refers to, as are all truly born-again believers whether Jewish or Gentile.
QUOTE (voice @ Dec 4 2008, 09:40 PM)
38And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.
39But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.
40For he that is not against us is on our part.
41For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
42And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.
Mark 9:38-42
46Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest. 47And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him,
48And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.
49And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us.
50And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us.
Luke 9:46-50
Stephen is a blood-purchased, born-again believer in the Lord Jesus Christ as the conglomerate testimony of his postings is evidence. He is also one of those 'little ones' that Christ refers to, as are all truly born-again believers whether Jewish or Gentile.
39But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.
40For he that is not against us is on our part.
41For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
42And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.
Mark 9:38-42
46Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest. 47And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him,
48And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.
49And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us.
50And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us.
Luke 9:46-50
Stephen is a blood-purchased, born-again believer in the Lord Jesus Christ as the conglomerate testimony of his postings is evidence. He is also one of those 'little ones' that Christ refers to, as are all truly born-again believers whether Jewish or Gentile.
But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a heavy millstone hung around his neck, and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.
Matthew 18:6
But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.
Galatians 5:15
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
John 13:35
From my website:
The purpose of this website is to share the author's studies and practical explanation of Bible prophecy in a clear and consistent manner with reference to the inspired Word of God.
The material is presented in short form sentences and paragraphs for easy reading and for comparative analysis to related Bible references. [Scriptural references are in process]
The suggested links include the Blue Letter Bible which has an excellent concordance and selective translations. The other links include current world news items, intelligence reporting from Israel, and study maps.
This writer is a believer in Jesus Christ and the inspired Word of God, the Holy Bible, and does not vary from this position.
It is also my opinion that the Bible is the only authority to be completely trusted and used for the correct understanding of the past, present, and future related to the material universe and human existence.
Much has been expressed verbally and written over the course of human history and presented strictly from a human point of view.
The prophetic Scriptures contained in the Bible are specifically unique and they reflect absolute truths from God's point of view.
"No prophecy ever came by the impulse of man,
but from men moved by the Holy Spirit"
[2 Peter 1:20-21]
The prophets' visions contain information that some would consider to be extremely negative content. Much of this has to do with the way in which God views world conditions that are unacceptable to Him.
The world of humans, physical universe, and the earth are in a state of decadence which includes the fall of all human beings and one third of the angelic realm.
God is very candid about these facts and warns us about the consequences. [Romans 1:18-28, 2:1-12][Revelation 12:3-12]
Prophecy deals with these issues in very direct literal ways which can be shocking, disturbing, and critical to the unregenerated human who typically does not see things the way that God is looking at them.
There are also extremely positive values contained within the writings of the prophets which tell of an abrupt reversal of these downward trends.
This will lead to a fantastic future for all of those individuals who seek and find their way back to the right relationship with God. [Revelation 21:1-22]
In addition, there are significant truths revealed in Scripture which seem strange and different to us. They are well beyond our perceptibility and we must rely upon the Bible for explanations.
Current world events seem to be focused on the Middle East or in many cases related to that part of the earth.
This ancient land of Eden, post flood beginnings, and empires will attract human and satanic forces for a direct encounter with God.
There is a time coming when all nations will be drawn into the vortex of unprecedented vexation and ultimate destruction at the hand of the Lord in the Middle East. [Zechariah 14:1-14]
Israel exists as an independent political entity after an extended absence of almost 2,000 years from the Land of Israel.
This is a definite indication that we may be very close to events described in Bible prophecy for the end of this present age.
How close are we ? No one really knows, and this is because God has not revealed the time for the beginning of the end.
Many have tried to predict the start of these things by using a combination of Scripture and speculation. All have failed.
We can only watch and wait while comparing observed events against the back drop of Scripture....not the other way around. Jesus said to be continuously watching and waiting, and ready....for it will be at a time that no one can predict. [Matthew 24:36]
There are signs and observable events which will take place at the time of the end that the student of Bible prophecy would be able to recognize, but only after the Day of The Lord begins.
There are also stage setting events that can be observed like Israel's return to the Land of Israel. Those individuals who have a correct comprehensive understanding of the Bible will be in a position to make proper evaluations based upon solid truths.
This site will be updated frequently with the intent to continuously perfect, to the extent possible, a proper and complete view of current events as they relate to and are evaluated against the backdrop of the Bible.
The Bible is an intricate and complex set of materials which the writer believes can be comprehended and understood given proper motivation and a desire to seek the truth about human existence and each individual's journey through this life.
The prophetical Scriptures contain unique symbolic visions that were conveyed to the prophets by God's Holy Spirit.
These individuals lived and scripted their prophecies at different times, sometimes centuries apart, and in different places.
There are no contradictions present in the original manuscripts showing that all of the prophecies were authored by God and conveyed to the prophets through His Holy Spirit.
The contents of this writing are presented primarily for the student of Bible prophecy who has a fairly in-depth knowledge of the Bible and is in the process of expanding their knowledge.
Much of the details of the overall Christian faith will not necessarily be included under the assumption that the reader has a solid background in these areas.
The author has no bias regarding positions of others who may be affiliated with various Christian denominations or other religious groups......or any individual beliefs for that matter.
There is no objective to mislead, persuade, correct, evaluate, or criticize individuals who may have a different perspective than presented at this website.
I would point out that I do believe it is imperative for each individual to search for the true meaning of life and the need for personal salvation through a belief and trust in the only Son of God who is Jesus Christ.
Knowledge of Bible prophecy and the pursuit of the same has virtually no value apart from this truth.
I am also of the opinion that Christians should not engage in endless arguments over the details of certain positions taken on the interpretation of the prophetic Scriptures.
On the contrary, knowledge and information should be shared for the purpose of improving understanding and also encouraging one another to continue the search.
Factions and disputes may also be observed by those who will never find Jesus because of this type of behavior, and the believer should always be sensitive to this possibility.
I believe that any person, regardless of experience, knowledge, ability, or any other qualifying characteristics has the potential to develop a high level of practical understanding of the prophetic Scriptures.
I will also personally assist anyone who needs additional information regarding the Christian faith and the Bible that may not be directly addressed at this website.
I have no formal theological training, and I am not affiliated with any particular religious institution.
My knowledge is totally a product of an applied determination to know the meaning of life as it is conveyed by the Creator of all things, purposes, and plans which I believe can be found in the Holy Bible.
I also believe that God has purposely filed these truths in His Word for all humans to discover in one way or another.
My objective is to share with those who have an interest, my experiences and understanding related to Bible prophecy.
I believe that Bible prophecy, when presented properly, is a great faith builder, and can be a very effective witness to unbelievers.
If you happen to discover this website, I will welcome any and all responses that you may have and will attempt to answer questions directly or will do research to find related information for you.
If I speculate for the purpose of illustration, or give an opinion or impression, I will indicate that it is the same and not necessarily to be considered as the only way to interpret Scripture.
There are a few settings contained within broad significant themes of the prophetic Scriptures that need to be identified and applied as file guides for understanding other details.
The themes and settings create structural relationships which serve as a backdrop for grasping the bigger picture and the overall scope of God's communication to us. I define these as file guides.
Some would call these guides doctrines, or traditional approaches to the study of prophecy. Many doctrines, ideas, theories, and traditions have been developed by individuals and institutions since the days of the early Church.
There are those that have added a great deal to the understanding of Bible prophecy. There are also those that contribute very little.....and those that are misleading and may contain the ulterior motives of the presenters.
My current discoveries do not always reflect some of the traditional teachings of the various established Christian denominations. If the reader has questions related to differences, I will respond directly with my explanations.
In addition to the file guides, there are also file subjects which are updated frequently. New and current information will be posted at the top and remain there for a period of time.
These additions or any modifications will be used to update the file guides and file subjects.
I would also suggest that the Bible link included at the top be used frequently for comparative analysis. The Holy Bible must always be the final authority. The File Guide and File Subject links can be used to access the Truth Files
The purpose of this website is to share the author's studies and practical explanation of Bible prophecy in a clear and consistent manner with reference to the inspired Word of God.
The material is presented in short form sentences and paragraphs for easy reading and for comparative analysis to related Bible references. [Scriptural references are in process]
The suggested links include the Blue Letter Bible which has an excellent concordance and selective translations. The other links include current world news items, intelligence reporting from Israel, and study maps.
This writer is a believer in Jesus Christ and the inspired Word of God, the Holy Bible, and does not vary from this position.
It is also my opinion that the Bible is the only authority to be completely trusted and used for the correct understanding of the past, present, and future related to the material universe and human existence.
Much has been expressed verbally and written over the course of human history and presented strictly from a human point of view.
The prophetic Scriptures contained in the Bible are specifically unique and they reflect absolute truths from God's point of view.
"No prophecy ever came by the impulse of man,
but from men moved by the Holy Spirit"
[2 Peter 1:20-21]
The prophets' visions contain information that some would consider to be extremely negative content. Much of this has to do with the way in which God views world conditions that are unacceptable to Him.
The world of humans, physical universe, and the earth are in a state of decadence which includes the fall of all human beings and one third of the angelic realm.
God is very candid about these facts and warns us about the consequences. [Romans 1:18-28, 2:1-12][Revelation 12:3-12]
Prophecy deals with these issues in very direct literal ways which can be shocking, disturbing, and critical to the unregenerated human who typically does not see things the way that God is looking at them.
There are also extremely positive values contained within the writings of the prophets which tell of an abrupt reversal of these downward trends.
This will lead to a fantastic future for all of those individuals who seek and find their way back to the right relationship with God. [Revelation 21:1-22]
In addition, there are significant truths revealed in Scripture which seem strange and different to us. They are well beyond our perceptibility and we must rely upon the Bible for explanations.
Current world events seem to be focused on the Middle East or in many cases related to that part of the earth.
This ancient land of Eden, post flood beginnings, and empires will attract human and satanic forces for a direct encounter with God.
There is a time coming when all nations will be drawn into the vortex of unprecedented vexation and ultimate destruction at the hand of the Lord in the Middle East. [Zechariah 14:1-14]
Israel exists as an independent political entity after an extended absence of almost 2,000 years from the Land of Israel.
This is a definite indication that we may be very close to events described in Bible prophecy for the end of this present age.
How close are we ? No one really knows, and this is because God has not revealed the time for the beginning of the end.
Many have tried to predict the start of these things by using a combination of Scripture and speculation. All have failed.
We can only watch and wait while comparing observed events against the back drop of Scripture....not the other way around. Jesus said to be continuously watching and waiting, and ready....for it will be at a time that no one can predict. [Matthew 24:36]
There are signs and observable events which will take place at the time of the end that the student of Bible prophecy would be able to recognize, but only after the Day of The Lord begins.
There are also stage setting events that can be observed like Israel's return to the Land of Israel. Those individuals who have a correct comprehensive understanding of the Bible will be in a position to make proper evaluations based upon solid truths.
This site will be updated frequently with the intent to continuously perfect, to the extent possible, a proper and complete view of current events as they relate to and are evaluated against the backdrop of the Bible.
The Bible is an intricate and complex set of materials which the writer believes can be comprehended and understood given proper motivation and a desire to seek the truth about human existence and each individual's journey through this life.
The prophetical Scriptures contain unique symbolic visions that were conveyed to the prophets by God's Holy Spirit.
These individuals lived and scripted their prophecies at different times, sometimes centuries apart, and in different places.
There are no contradictions present in the original manuscripts showing that all of the prophecies were authored by God and conveyed to the prophets through His Holy Spirit.
The contents of this writing are presented primarily for the student of Bible prophecy who has a fairly in-depth knowledge of the Bible and is in the process of expanding their knowledge.
Much of the details of the overall Christian faith will not necessarily be included under the assumption that the reader has a solid background in these areas.
The author has no bias regarding positions of others who may be affiliated with various Christian denominations or other religious groups......or any individual beliefs for that matter.
There is no objective to mislead, persuade, correct, evaluate, or criticize individuals who may have a different perspective than presented at this website.
I would point out that I do believe it is imperative for each individual to search for the true meaning of life and the need for personal salvation through a belief and trust in the only Son of God who is Jesus Christ.
Knowledge of Bible prophecy and the pursuit of the same has virtually no value apart from this truth.
I am also of the opinion that Christians should not engage in endless arguments over the details of certain positions taken on the interpretation of the prophetic Scriptures.
On the contrary, knowledge and information should be shared for the purpose of improving understanding and also encouraging one another to continue the search.
Factions and disputes may also be observed by those who will never find Jesus because of this type of behavior, and the believer should always be sensitive to this possibility.
I believe that any person, regardless of experience, knowledge, ability, or any other qualifying characteristics has the potential to develop a high level of practical understanding of the prophetic Scriptures.
I will also personally assist anyone who needs additional information regarding the Christian faith and the Bible that may not be directly addressed at this website.
I have no formal theological training, and I am not affiliated with any particular religious institution.
My knowledge is totally a product of an applied determination to know the meaning of life as it is conveyed by the Creator of all things, purposes, and plans which I believe can be found in the Holy Bible.
I also believe that God has purposely filed these truths in His Word for all humans to discover in one way or another.
My objective is to share with those who have an interest, my experiences and understanding related to Bible prophecy.
I believe that Bible prophecy, when presented properly, is a great faith builder, and can be a very effective witness to unbelievers.
If you happen to discover this website, I will welcome any and all responses that you may have and will attempt to answer questions directly or will do research to find related information for you.
If I speculate for the purpose of illustration, or give an opinion or impression, I will indicate that it is the same and not necessarily to be considered as the only way to interpret Scripture.
There are a few settings contained within broad significant themes of the prophetic Scriptures that need to be identified and applied as file guides for understanding other details.
The themes and settings create structural relationships which serve as a backdrop for grasping the bigger picture and the overall scope of God's communication to us. I define these as file guides.
Some would call these guides doctrines, or traditional approaches to the study of prophecy. Many doctrines, ideas, theories, and traditions have been developed by individuals and institutions since the days of the early Church.
There are those that have added a great deal to the understanding of Bible prophecy. There are also those that contribute very little.....and those that are misleading and may contain the ulterior motives of the presenters.
My current discoveries do not always reflect some of the traditional teachings of the various established Christian denominations. If the reader has questions related to differences, I will respond directly with my explanations.
In addition to the file guides, there are also file subjects which are updated frequently. New and current information will be posted at the top and remain there for a period of time.
These additions or any modifications will be used to update the file guides and file subjects.
I would also suggest that the Bible link included at the top be used frequently for comparative analysis. The Holy Bible must always be the final authority. The File Guide and File Subject links can be used to access the Truth Files
I think I get what Jeff is asking and the purpose of his question. To say the bible only is the source of all truth is akin to putting faith in a book rather than in God Himself. A Christian disciple must also follow the Spirit in experience as well as read and know the written word. There is a proper balance to be maintained between the Spirit and the word. After all, we serve a living God and not just a God in writing.
God is much more than what can be explained in writing. However, there are many who denigrate the spiritual knowledge and experience of God and rely on logic and the written word alone. They believe that this is enough. This of course is illogical in the extreme as the very writers of the bible experienced God in a very real and spiritual way. The bible is the work of men who experienced God in a way that is so often denigrated by the very ones that put so much faith in it. We are reading what others have experienced. The process has never stopped. 
<><
John
God is much more than what can be explained in writing. However, there are many who denigrate the spiritual knowledge and experience of God and rely on logic and the written word alone. They believe that this is enough. This of course is illogical in the extreme as the very writers of the bible experienced God in a very real and spiritual way. The bible is the work of men who experienced God in a way that is so often denigrated by the very ones that put so much faith in it. We are reading what others have experienced. The process has never stopped.
<><
John
QUOTE (Adullam @ Dec 4 2008, 11:03 AM)
I think I get what Jeff is asking and the purpose of his question. To say the bible only is the source of all truth is akin to putting faith in a book rather than God Himself. A Christian disciple must also follow the Spirit in experience as well as read and know the written word. There is a proper balance to be maintained between the Spirit and the word. After all, we serve a living God and not just a God in writing.
God is much more than what can be explained in writing. However, there are many who denigrate the spiritual knowledge and experience of God and rely on logic and the written word alone. They believe that this is enough. This of course is illogical in the extreme as the very writers of the bible experienced God in a very real and spiritual way. The bible is the work of men who experienced God in a way that is so often denigrated by the very ones that put so much faith in it. We are reading what others have experienced. The process has never stopped.
<><
John
God is much more than what can be explained in writing. However, there are many who denigrate the spiritual knowledge and experience of God and rely on logic and the written word alone. They believe that this is enough. This of course is illogical in the extreme as the very writers of the bible experienced God in a very real and spiritual way. The bible is the work of men who experienced God in a way that is so often denigrated by the very ones that put so much faith in it. We are reading what others have experienced. The process has never stopped.
<><
John
Dearest John :
I really like the name 'Adullam'.
Well, the following coming from me, will seem odd.
As a Holy Ghost believer, in the operations of the gifts/anointing, I find myself easily
judging others not as Pentecostal thinking as I think I am.
I have prayed about my fault, I will continue to receive correction via my Father.
In my 'die unto the flesh' vow, to beat down every stone into sand, the rod of correction
is still upon me, in these matters.
I find John, that many people are one way or the other.
Few are meat/milk and/or milk/meat duality humans, in divine manifestations.
Because I am from a childhood of no music in the church, silence, no praise outloud
of His name, I for almost 20 years experienced the reserved approach, to people gathering
in the name of the Lord.
Then I started my childhood memories of near death drowning ( age 9 ) . . . and remembrance
of dreams coming true, the actions of the Holy Ghost operated in my little child life,
without any church promoting them.
Next, the Lord through a co-worker invited me to a Pentecostal meeting.
This was so different from the reserved worship service, of my youth.
And then, I began a deep search for the `Will of the Lord`, in my life, the longing to
understand all the questions, which neither the reserved nor non-reserved `churches`
could/would answer.
At that time in 1999, my 40th birthday year, the dream of the DNA . . . a message that
changed my life, as well as the other life changing events . . . this dream consolidated both
the need for two things, `mercy` and `judgement` !
The following is an excerpt, I have not read the full web, I ask the Lord to lead me to
a simple few sentences to express how much Stephen, has been such a blessing to me.
And although, Stephen is much more orthodox than me, I greatly appreciate his historical
foundation prophecy contributions to my walk, since I joined last fall 2007.
And I do get the point, you make John. Trust me, I get many things . . .
Blessings . . . .
EXCERPT:
http://www.azamra.org/Parshah/VAYISHLACH.htm
Jacob was first characterized as "a dweller of tents" (Gen. 25:27) -- the "tent" of Abraham (CHESSED) and the "tent" of Isaac (GEVURAH). "Planting" tents in a field turns the FIELD into a place of residence. Jacob's mission was to join and synthesize the holy traits of his fathers and teachers, CHESSED and GEVURAH, in order to build TIFERES, truth, beauty and balance. This is the HOUSE, the House of Jacob -- the HOUSE, family and people of Israel, and also the archetypal, model physical HOUSE that is to serve to guide all mankind to return to G-d, the "House of Prayer for all the Nations", the "HOME" of G-d: the HOLY TEMPLE. In the course of our parshah, we see Jacob busy building houses. He travels to Succos, "TABERNACLES" -- temporary homes. There Jacob built himself a HOUSE while making booths for his livestock.
QUOTE (+Shine+ @ Dec 4 2008, 02:04 AM)
"Such as calling the Holy Spirit Satan.
"QUOTE
Do you have a link Jeff? Just wondering if it's something that's been misconstrued or if it's a blatant heretical comment.
Ta x
Ta x
Stephen says:
QUOTE
Your story is just that .... a story
And don't ever think that Satan does not support and inject false healing experiences
Especially if you open up to his deception
If you had the indwelling of the Lord's Holy Spirit, your understanding and presentation of His Word would be much different on many issues than you tell
Check yourself out
And don't ever think that Satan does not support and inject false healing experiences
Especially if you open up to his deception
If you had the indwelling of the Lord's Holy Spirit, your understanding and presentation of His Word would be much different on many issues than you tell
Check yourself out
From: http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...st&p=194872
Which was in response to my testimony:
QUOTE
About 13 years ago, the Holy Spirit began nudging me to go to the mall to buy some jeans. I was about 25 at the time, and, I liked nice clothes like any other 25 year old, but, I resisted the idea, because I didn't want or need any jeans. I resisted the thought all day. At first I thought it was just me thinking this. He was speaking in a much quieter voice than I was use to. Eventually I realized it was the Holy Spirit prompting me to go. Finally, I said Ok and, I rode my bicycle to the mall about mid-late afternoon.
When I got there, I went to the big department stores, and looked for sales on jeans. I went up and down the mall a few times, and, in a number of stores. I hadn't found any good sales so, I decided to go to one last store on the other side of the mall and then leave if I hadn't found one. When I reached the middle of the mall where the four walkways intersected, the Holy Spirit caused me to look to the right very quickly. There was a crowd of people surrounding a man who was lying on the ground. I hadn't been paying attention, and, would have walked right by if that hadn't happened.
Right as that happened, a voice said, "Can I pray for you, can I pray for you" over and over and over in my head. I knew I was supposed to ask the guy lying on the ground if I could pray for him. My heart began racing, and, I began to sweat. I knew it was God getting my attention, he'd done stuff like this before, just not out in public like this. A MAjor amount of fear came over me. I knew it was God, but I was thinking, "this is the middle of the Coddingtown Mall! There's people everywhere!" I stood there, listening to this voice and looking at the guy and the group of people around him. I didn't do anything for maybe a minute. Then the paramedics arrived.
At the exact moment the paramedics showed up, the voice changed. Now it was saying, "Can I pray for him, can I pray him?" over and over. I knew automatically I was supposed to ask the paramedics if I could pray for him now since I hadn't acted when I got the first prompting.
I waited about another 30 seconds to a minute, paralyzed by the fear of doing this in front of all of those people. The urging was Very powerful now, so, I overcame the fear, and did what God was asking me to do.
I walked up to the paramedics, and asked them if I could pray for this guy on the ground (someone said he had had a grand mal seizure or something). The paramedics asked him if he wanted me to, and, he said yes.
I knelt down by this fellow, and, Immediately the Spirit moved my hand to his upper right chest and pressed my hand Hard into him. I began praying in tongues Heavily right at that moment, and, I felt the prescence of the Holy Spirit VERy powerfully right then. The man on the ground began thanking Jesus as I began to pray for him and my hand was on his chest. He was like, "thank you Jesus, thank you Jesus" over and over again. I think the HS prayed through me and said, "Father, heal this one" (it's been awhile so I don't remember exactly).
As this was happening, my mind was going at the same time. I was surrounded by people and paramedics in the local mall, and, I'm praying in tongues loudly so, it was quite a scene I knew. The HS was there so heavily and powerfully, I remember thinking, "if I open my eyes I will see heaven or angels or something!" I didn't open my eyes. I don't think I could have. I think God was in total control of the situation, so I wouldn't be able too.
After about a minute or so of this, I began thinking, "I wonder how long I should keep praying?" The flow of tongues had lessened, but, I didn't want to do anything wrong and not get this guy enough of the Holy Spirit (weird thinking, lol). Then, the paramedics said, "sir, we need to give this guy medical attention." I broke off from the guy, and, he was thanking me over and over. I said, sure or something, and, stepped back. Right then I saw this guy staring at me. His jaw was way agape, and his eyes were huge! He was totally in shock at what he just saw (actually I have a theory that the guy had a spirit, and, that's what was looking through him in fear, more on that some other time I guess though). I stood there, wondering what I should do. I was waiting for something from God, a little direction, like, "what do I do now God?" Part of me wanted to see how people reacted, and, I thought maybe people will get saved or something. But, right then, I felt the Holy Spirit nudging me to leave. Right then, one of the paramedics took the guy who had had the seizure's hand, and, helped him up. I think they asked him some questions or something. Apparently he was fine. He was standing there like any other person. Then, I turned around, and went home.
When I got there, I went to the big department stores, and looked for sales on jeans. I went up and down the mall a few times, and, in a number of stores. I hadn't found any good sales so, I decided to go to one last store on the other side of the mall and then leave if I hadn't found one. When I reached the middle of the mall where the four walkways intersected, the Holy Spirit caused me to look to the right very quickly. There was a crowd of people surrounding a man who was lying on the ground. I hadn't been paying attention, and, would have walked right by if that hadn't happened.
Right as that happened, a voice said, "Can I pray for you, can I pray for you" over and over and over in my head. I knew I was supposed to ask the guy lying on the ground if I could pray for him. My heart began racing, and, I began to sweat. I knew it was God getting my attention, he'd done stuff like this before, just not out in public like this. A MAjor amount of fear came over me. I knew it was God, but I was thinking, "this is the middle of the Coddingtown Mall! There's people everywhere!" I stood there, listening to this voice and looking at the guy and the group of people around him. I didn't do anything for maybe a minute. Then the paramedics arrived.
At the exact moment the paramedics showed up, the voice changed. Now it was saying, "Can I pray for him, can I pray him?" over and over. I knew automatically I was supposed to ask the paramedics if I could pray for him now since I hadn't acted when I got the first prompting.
I waited about another 30 seconds to a minute, paralyzed by the fear of doing this in front of all of those people. The urging was Very powerful now, so, I overcame the fear, and did what God was asking me to do.
I walked up to the paramedics, and asked them if I could pray for this guy on the ground (someone said he had had a grand mal seizure or something). The paramedics asked him if he wanted me to, and, he said yes.
I knelt down by this fellow, and, Immediately the Spirit moved my hand to his upper right chest and pressed my hand Hard into him. I began praying in tongues Heavily right at that moment, and, I felt the prescence of the Holy Spirit VERy powerfully right then. The man on the ground began thanking Jesus as I began to pray for him and my hand was on his chest. He was like, "thank you Jesus, thank you Jesus" over and over again. I think the HS prayed through me and said, "Father, heal this one" (it's been awhile so I don't remember exactly).
As this was happening, my mind was going at the same time. I was surrounded by people and paramedics in the local mall, and, I'm praying in tongues loudly so, it was quite a scene I knew. The HS was there so heavily and powerfully, I remember thinking, "if I open my eyes I will see heaven or angels or something!" I didn't open my eyes. I don't think I could have. I think God was in total control of the situation, so I wouldn't be able too.
After about a minute or so of this, I began thinking, "I wonder how long I should keep praying?" The flow of tongues had lessened, but, I didn't want to do anything wrong and not get this guy enough of the Holy Spirit (weird thinking, lol). Then, the paramedics said, "sir, we need to give this guy medical attention." I broke off from the guy, and, he was thanking me over and over. I said, sure or something, and, stepped back. Right then I saw this guy staring at me. His jaw was way agape, and his eyes were huge! He was totally in shock at what he just saw (actually I have a theory that the guy had a spirit, and, that's what was looking through him in fear, more on that some other time I guess though). I stood there, wondering what I should do. I was waiting for something from God, a little direction, like, "what do I do now God?" Part of me wanted to see how people reacted, and, I thought maybe people will get saved or something. But, right then, I felt the Holy Spirit nudging me to leave. Right then, one of the paramedics took the guy who had had the seizure's hand, and, helped him up. I think they asked him some questions or something. Apparently he was fine. He was standing there like any other person. Then, I turned around, and went home.
Stephen says:
QUOTE
The Lord's Holy Spirit does not teach much of what you present.
The Lord's Holy Spirit does not teach error, confusion, and falsehood
Better check your back door
The Lord's Holy Spirit does not teach error, confusion, and falsehood
Better check your back door
From: http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...st&p=194821
Which was in response to my post:
QUOTE
New Jerusalem is us
The great star is Satan and the rivers and fountains of water are Christians who become bitter
Only the Father knows the time and day because if Satan knew he would muster his angels to stop God's angels
The two candlesticks are different from the two olive trees.
The great star is Satan and the rivers and fountains of water are Christians who become bitter
Only the Father knows the time and day because if Satan knew he would muster his angels to stop God's angels
The two candlesticks are different from the two olive trees.
Stephen says:
QUOTE (Stephen @ Dec 3 2008, 05:49 PM)
R,
You are either making up a story about your conversion
...... or you were bitten by a demon
You are on a dangerous track
You are either making up a story about your conversion
...... or you were bitten by a demon
You are on a dangerous track
From here: http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...st&p=268871
Which was in response to my testimony on how I was called:
QUOTE
When I was 5 I asked Jesus to come into my heart. I remember it vividly. But of course, we don't understand too much at that age, so, my calling (back) came when I was 23.
I was living in a friend's warehouse where a rock band that I sang for also practiced. Living the wannabe rockstar life of partying, fighting, etc. I was a rebel. One night I went to friend's apartment for a little get together. I ended up staying the night. In the morning, I found one of those big family bibles in the apartment. I began reading the book of Revelation as I was always interested in it when I was younger. I decided to look in the front of the bible since I had never really read any of the other books.
I turned to Genesis and began reading the Creation account. As I was reading, the page lit up, and, I understood all of the sudden that God really had made everything. Right as that happened, a voice said, "This is where the power is." I literally said, "Whoa" when this happened. I was raised in the church and went to a Christian school, so, I knew some things about God. I remember thinking, "God's trying to get my attention," and, "I can't ignore this." I knew I had to do something.
For the next three days I read the bible non-stop. I couldn't get enough. I also knew that I had to change my life. I quite the band, quit partying/drinking, and quit hanging out with my old friends. I found a church that I liked, and, went to live in a ministry house. I studied for the next four years to become a teacher/preacher. I believed that was what I wanted to do because many in my family are ministers/arch-bishops etc.. In the end, I pursued my political aspirations, and ran for Congress and governor of Ca. and became the chairman of a political party. Seventeen years after I was called back, I still serve God and look forward to what I hope is the final chapter in His plan.
I was living in a friend's warehouse where a rock band that I sang for also practiced. Living the wannabe rockstar life of partying, fighting, etc. I was a rebel. One night I went to friend's apartment for a little get together. I ended up staying the night. In the morning, I found one of those big family bibles in the apartment. I began reading the book of Revelation as I was always interested in it when I was younger. I decided to look in the front of the bible since I had never really read any of the other books.
I turned to Genesis and began reading the Creation account. As I was reading, the page lit up, and, I understood all of the sudden that God really had made everything. Right as that happened, a voice said, "This is where the power is." I literally said, "Whoa" when this happened. I was raised in the church and went to a Christian school, so, I knew some things about God. I remember thinking, "God's trying to get my attention," and, "I can't ignore this." I knew I had to do something.
For the next three days I read the bible non-stop. I couldn't get enough. I also knew that I had to change my life. I quite the band, quit partying/drinking, and quit hanging out with my old friends. I found a church that I liked, and, went to live in a ministry house. I studied for the next four years to become a teacher/preacher. I believed that was what I wanted to do because many in my family are ministers/arch-bishops etc.. In the end, I pursued my political aspirations, and ran for Congress and governor of Ca. and became the chairman of a political party. Seventeen years after I was called back, I still serve God and look forward to what I hope is the final chapter in His plan.
From: http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...c=15560&hl=
Should I post more?
QUOTE (Stephen @ Dec 4 2008, 06:28 AM)
From my website:
The purpose of this website is to share the author's studies and practical explanation of Bible prophecy in a clear and consistent manner with reference to the inspired Word of God.
The material is presented in short form sentences and paragraphs for easy reading and for comparative analysis to related Bible references. [Scriptural references are in process]
The suggested links include the Blue Letter Bible which has an excellent concordance and selective translations. The other links include current world news items, intelligence reporting from Israel, and study maps.
This writer is a believer in Jesus Christ and the inspired Word of God, the Holy Bible, and does not vary from this position.
It is also my opinion that the Bible is the only authority to be completely trusted and used for the correct understanding of the past, present, and future related to the material universe and human existence.
Much has been expressed verbally and written over the course of human history and presented strictly from a human point of view.
The prophetic Scriptures contained in the Bible are specifically unique and they reflect absolute truths from God's point of view.
"No prophecy ever came by the impulse of man,
but from men moved by the Holy Spirit"
[2 Peter 1:20-21]
The prophets' visions contain information that some would consider to be extremely negative content. Much of this has to do with the way in which God views world conditions that are unacceptable to Him.
The world of humans, physical universe, and the earth are in a state of decadence which includes the fall of all human beings and one third of the angelic realm.
God is very candid about these facts and warns us about the consequences. [Romans 1:18-28, 2:1-12][Revelation 12:3-12]
Prophecy deals with these issues in very direct literal ways which can be shocking, disturbing, and critical to the unregenerated human who typically does not see things the way that God is looking at them.
There are also extremely positive values contained within the writings of the prophets which tell of an abrupt reversal of these downward trends.
This will lead to a fantastic future for all of those individuals who seek and find their way back to the right relationship with God. [Revelation 21:1-22]
In addition, there are significant truths revealed in Scripture which seem strange and different to us. They are well beyond our perceptibility and we must rely upon the Bible for explanations.
Current world events seem to be focused on the Middle East or in many cases related to that part of the earth.
This ancient land of Eden, post flood beginnings, and empires will attract human and satanic forces for a direct encounter with God.
There is a time coming when all nations will be drawn into the vortex of unprecedented vexation and ultimate destruction at the hand of the Lord in the Middle East. [Zechariah 14:1-14]
Israel exists as an independent political entity after an extended absence of almost 2,000 years from the Land of Israel.
This is a definite indication that we may be very close to events described in Bible prophecy for the end of this present age.
How close are we ? No one really knows, and this is because God has not revealed the time for the beginning of the end.
Many have tried to predict the start of these things by using a combination of Scripture and speculation. All have failed.
We can only watch and wait while comparing observed events against the back drop of Scripture....not the other way around. Jesus said to be continuously watching and waiting, and ready....for it will be at a time that no one can predict. [Matthew 24:36]
There are signs and observable events which will take place at the time of the end that the student of Bible prophecy would be able to recognize, but only after the Day of The Lord begins.
There are also stage setting events that can be observed like Israel's return to the Land of Israel. Those individuals who have a correct comprehensive understanding of the Bible will be in a position to make proper evaluations based upon solid truths.
This site will be updated frequently with the intent to continuously perfect, to the extent possible, a proper and complete view of current events as they relate to and are evaluated against the backdrop of the Bible.
The Bible is an intricate and complex set of materials which the writer believes can be comprehended and understood given proper motivation and a desire to seek the truth about human existence and each individual's journey through this life.
The prophetical Scriptures contain unique symbolic visions that were conveyed to the prophets by God's Holy Spirit.
These individuals lived and scripted their prophecies at different times, sometimes centuries apart, and in different places.
There are no contradictions present in the original manuscripts showing that all of the prophecies were authored by God and conveyed to the prophets through His Holy Spirit.
The contents of this writing are presented primarily for the student of Bible prophecy who has a fairly in-depth knowledge of the Bible and is in the process of expanding their knowledge.
Much of the details of the overall Christian faith will not necessarily be included under the assumption that the reader has a solid background in these areas.
The author has no bias regarding positions of others who may be affiliated with various Christian denominations or other religious groups......or any individual beliefs for that matter.
There is no objective to mislead, persuade, correct, evaluate, or criticize individuals who may have a different perspective than presented at this website.
I would point out that I do believe it is imperative for each individual to search for the true meaning of life and the need for personal salvation through a belief and trust in the only Son of God who is Jesus Christ.
Knowledge of Bible prophecy and the pursuit of the same has virtually no value apart from this truth.
I am also of the opinion that Christians should not engage in endless arguments over the details of certain positions taken on the interpretation of the prophetic Scriptures.
On the contrary, knowledge and information should be shared for the purpose of improving understanding and also encouraging one another to continue the search.
Factions and disputes may also be observed by those who will never find Jesus because of this type of behavior, and the believer should always be sensitive to this possibility.
I believe that any person, regardless of experience, knowledge, ability, or any other qualifying characteristics has the potential to develop a high level of practical understanding of the prophetic Scriptures.
I will also personally assist anyone who needs additional information regarding the Christian faith and the Bible that may not be directly addressed at this website.
I have no formal theological training, and I am not affiliated with any particular religious institution.
My knowledge is totally a product of an applied determination to know the meaning of life as it is conveyed by the Creator of all things, purposes, and plans which I believe can be found in the Holy Bible.
I also believe that God has purposely filed these truths in His Word for all humans to discover in one way or another.
My objective is to share with those who have an interest, my experiences and understanding related to Bible prophecy.
I believe that Bible prophecy, when presented properly, is a great faith builder, and can be a very effective witness to unbelievers.
If you happen to discover this website, I will welcome any and all responses that you may have and will attempt to answer questions directly or will do research to find related information for you.
If I speculate for the purpose of illustration, or give an opinion or impression, I will indicate that it is the same and not necessarily to be considered as the only way to interpret Scripture.
There are a few settings contained within broad significant themes of the prophetic Scriptures that need to be identified and applied as file guides for understanding other details.
The themes and settings create structural relationships which serve as a backdrop for grasping the bigger picture and the overall scope of God's communication to us. I define these as file guides.
Some would call these guides doctrines, or traditional approaches to the study of prophecy. Many doctrines, ideas, theories, and traditions have been developed by individuals and institutions since the days of the early Church.
There are those that have added a great deal to the understanding of Bible prophecy. There are also those that contribute very little.....and those that are misleading and may contain the ulterior motives of the presenters.
My current discoveries do not always reflect some of the traditional teachings of the various established Christian denominations. If the reader has questions related to differences, I will respond directly with my explanations.
In addition to the file guides, there are also file subjects which are updated frequently. New and current information will be posted at the top and remain there for a period of time.
These additions or any modifications will be used to update the file guides and file subjects.
I would also suggest that the Bible link included at the top be used frequently for comparative analysis. The Holy Bible must always be the final authority. The File Guide and File Subject links can be used to access the Truth Files
The purpose of this website is to share the author's studies and practical explanation of Bible prophecy in a clear and consistent manner with reference to the inspired Word of God.
The material is presented in short form sentences and paragraphs for easy reading and for comparative analysis to related Bible references. [Scriptural references are in process]
The suggested links include the Blue Letter Bible which has an excellent concordance and selective translations. The other links include current world news items, intelligence reporting from Israel, and study maps.
This writer is a believer in Jesus Christ and the inspired Word of God, the Holy Bible, and does not vary from this position.
It is also my opinion that the Bible is the only authority to be completely trusted and used for the correct understanding of the past, present, and future related to the material universe and human existence.
Much has been expressed verbally and written over the course of human history and presented strictly from a human point of view.
The prophetic Scriptures contained in the Bible are specifically unique and they reflect absolute truths from God's point of view.
"No prophecy ever came by the impulse of man,
but from men moved by the Holy Spirit"
[2 Peter 1:20-21]
The prophets' visions contain information that some would consider to be extremely negative content. Much of this has to do with the way in which God views world conditions that are unacceptable to Him.
The world of humans, physical universe, and the earth are in a state of decadence which includes the fall of all human beings and one third of the angelic realm.
God is very candid about these facts and warns us about the consequences. [Romans 1:18-28, 2:1-12][Revelation 12:3-12]
Prophecy deals with these issues in very direct literal ways which can be shocking, disturbing, and critical to the unregenerated human who typically does not see things the way that God is looking at them.
There are also extremely positive values contained within the writings of the prophets which tell of an abrupt reversal of these downward trends.
This will lead to a fantastic future for all of those individuals who seek and find their way back to the right relationship with God. [Revelation 21:1-22]
In addition, there are significant truths revealed in Scripture which seem strange and different to us. They are well beyond our perceptibility and we must rely upon the Bible for explanations.
Current world events seem to be focused on the Middle East or in many cases related to that part of the earth.
This ancient land of Eden, post flood beginnings, and empires will attract human and satanic forces for a direct encounter with God.
There is a time coming when all nations will be drawn into the vortex of unprecedented vexation and ultimate destruction at the hand of the Lord in the Middle East. [Zechariah 14:1-14]
Israel exists as an independent political entity after an extended absence of almost 2,000 years from the Land of Israel.
This is a definite indication that we may be very close to events described in Bible prophecy for the end of this present age.
How close are we ? No one really knows, and this is because God has not revealed the time for the beginning of the end.
Many have tried to predict the start of these things by using a combination of Scripture and speculation. All have failed.
We can only watch and wait while comparing observed events against the back drop of Scripture....not the other way around. Jesus said to be continuously watching and waiting, and ready....for it will be at a time that no one can predict. [Matthew 24:36]
There are signs and observable events which will take place at the time of the end that the student of Bible prophecy would be able to recognize, but only after the Day of The Lord begins.
There are also stage setting events that can be observed like Israel's return to the Land of Israel. Those individuals who have a correct comprehensive understanding of the Bible will be in a position to make proper evaluations based upon solid truths.
This site will be updated frequently with the intent to continuously perfect, to the extent possible, a proper and complete view of current events as they relate to and are evaluated against the backdrop of the Bible.
The Bible is an intricate and complex set of materials which the writer believes can be comprehended and understood given proper motivation and a desire to seek the truth about human existence and each individual's journey through this life.
The prophetical Scriptures contain unique symbolic visions that were conveyed to the prophets by God's Holy Spirit.
These individuals lived and scripted their prophecies at different times, sometimes centuries apart, and in different places.
There are no contradictions present in the original manuscripts showing that all of the prophecies were authored by God and conveyed to the prophets through His Holy Spirit.
The contents of this writing are presented primarily for the student of Bible prophecy who has a fairly in-depth knowledge of the Bible and is in the process of expanding their knowledge.
Much of the details of the overall Christian faith will not necessarily be included under the assumption that the reader has a solid background in these areas.
The author has no bias regarding positions of others who may be affiliated with various Christian denominations or other religious groups......or any individual beliefs for that matter.
There is no objective to mislead, persuade, correct, evaluate, or criticize individuals who may have a different perspective than presented at this website.
I would point out that I do believe it is imperative for each individual to search for the true meaning of life and the need for personal salvation through a belief and trust in the only Son of God who is Jesus Christ.
Knowledge of Bible prophecy and the pursuit of the same has virtually no value apart from this truth.
I am also of the opinion that Christians should not engage in endless arguments over the details of certain positions taken on the interpretation of the prophetic Scriptures.
On the contrary, knowledge and information should be shared for the purpose of improving understanding and also encouraging one another to continue the search.
Factions and disputes may also be observed by those who will never find Jesus because of this type of behavior, and the believer should always be sensitive to this possibility.
I believe that any person, regardless of experience, knowledge, ability, or any other qualifying characteristics has the potential to develop a high level of practical understanding of the prophetic Scriptures.
I will also personally assist anyone who needs additional information regarding the Christian faith and the Bible that may not be directly addressed at this website.
I have no formal theological training, and I am not affiliated with any particular religious institution.
My knowledge is totally a product of an applied determination to know the meaning of life as it is conveyed by the Creator of all things, purposes, and plans which I believe can be found in the Holy Bible.
I also believe that God has purposely filed these truths in His Word for all humans to discover in one way or another.
My objective is to share with those who have an interest, my experiences and understanding related to Bible prophecy.
I believe that Bible prophecy, when presented properly, is a great faith builder, and can be a very effective witness to unbelievers.
If you happen to discover this website, I will welcome any and all responses that you may have and will attempt to answer questions directly or will do research to find related information for you.
If I speculate for the purpose of illustration, or give an opinion or impression, I will indicate that it is the same and not necessarily to be considered as the only way to interpret Scripture.
There are a few settings contained within broad significant themes of the prophetic Scriptures that need to be identified and applied as file guides for understanding other details.
The themes and settings create structural relationships which serve as a backdrop for grasping the bigger picture and the overall scope of God's communication to us. I define these as file guides.
Some would call these guides doctrines, or traditional approaches to the study of prophecy. Many doctrines, ideas, theories, and traditions have been developed by individuals and institutions since the days of the early Church.
There are those that have added a great deal to the understanding of Bible prophecy. There are also those that contribute very little.....and those that are misleading and may contain the ulterior motives of the presenters.
My current discoveries do not always reflect some of the traditional teachings of the various established Christian denominations. If the reader has questions related to differences, I will respond directly with my explanations.
In addition to the file guides, there are also file subjects which are updated frequently. New and current information will be posted at the top and remain there for a period of time.
These additions or any modifications will be used to update the file guides and file subjects.
I would also suggest that the Bible link included at the top be used frequently for comparative analysis. The Holy Bible must always be the final authority. The File Guide and File Subject links can be used to access the Truth Files
This is a Testimony?????????????????????????????????? Please.
THIS is a Testimony. From MessiahisComing:
QUOTE (Messiahiscoming @ Feb 27 2008, 10:31 PM)
Chris (SpiritfilledOne) asked me to share my testiomony a wee or so ago. It made me sit down and type it up. I just have never wrote it out! So thanks Chris for asking.
I have shared bits and pieces of it here on the forum over the past couple of years . Just never compiled it and posted it all. There is so much more I could share of all the Lord has done..... but this is pretty much how I came to Christ.
I was raised in Church. My parents took me to Church and taught me about Christ from the age of 1 week old. My Dad is a Deacon...both parents Sunday school teachers. I was blessed to be taught the Word at such an early age.
The thing was I only knew Him as a "Story" on a page. I knew Him in my head bet never truly knew Him in my heart. In High School I caved into the peer pressures and headed down a long hard road.
I spent the next 13 or 14 years in the grip of sin! It was all about the guy's... the looks and the party! I got married right out of High School at 18. Things just got steadily worse. It continued to be all about the external....what I looked like ...what I wore....what I drove. I was addicted to many drugs. But the drugs of choice were cocaine or Meth. After several years the depression set in. I would party and then just come down from the high and would cry! I wanted a different life ....I just could never seem to get out.
My 2 oldest daughters suffered! Oh it just still breaks my heart to even recall it! Yet it was them that the Lord used to begin the process of me crying out to God One night I had been up the entire night. We had been at my sister in law's house and literally had been up all night. We were outside in the back partying around the pool and playing some games. My girls who were about 4 and 5 at the time had been inside the house with their cousins. The oldest was only about 9. At some point in the wee morning hours I walked in the house to use the restroom. I opened the door and the Lord stopped me dead in my tracks! It was only 1 of about 3 or 4 times that I have heard the audible Voice of God! The Lord said "VALERIE WHAT ARE YOU DOING? LOOK AT YOUR CHILDREN....(they were lying asleep on the floor... all over the living room) He continued to speak ... "VALERIE DO YOU EVEN KNOW WHEN YOUR GIRL'S WENT TO BED.... DID THEY EVEN EAT BEFORE THEY WENT TO BED?"
Oh my WORD! I sat there with tears just streaming down my face! I just buried my face in my hands... and thought WHAT AM I DOING?
Over the next few weeks, I did absolutely nothing but weep.... I wanted a way out but I honestly did not know how I was going to get there! I had tried so many times to leave this lifestyle but I would always fail.
On this particular evening my husband and I went to a comedy club with several of our partying buddies. Mind you I was under some intensive deep conviction. The Lord had been drawing me for a few weeks at this point. That evening I had not done any drugs. We did have to purchase some beer.....(crazy thing we had free tickets but had to buy a couple of beers a piece!
really free huh) Anyway I did not even take a sip... I did not even want to be there but went anyway. We listened to the 1st comedian and when he was through... I went to the restroom. In the restroom stall I just began to sob... just like I had for a couple of weeks. I began to just cry out to God. I remember saying Lord.... I have heard about you my entire life..... yet even though I said a prayer before for you to save me..... My life has been a constant struggle! I have never had victory over anything. Lord at this point... I do not even know if you are REAL. All that I know is that if You are who your Word says You are, then Meet me here! Come down and make away for me to get out of this sick lifestyle! If you’re real come and rescue me..... and I will serve you for the REST OF MY LIFE!
I pulled my self together and walked back to where my husband and others were. At this point a new comedian was on the stage. This was the absolute foulest person I had ever heard speak in my entire life! He started saying that the reason Jesus had such a following of women was because he was having sex with them all. I immediately looked at my husband my husband (which was a pretty stout guy) jumped up! We were at the VERY back of the club and the place was packed and He screamed at the top of His lungs, "YOU'RE A LIAR!"
You could have heard a pin drop in the Club! Every eye looked back to see where the scream had come from! I grabbed him by his belt loop and we left...(leaving all that were with us) As we walked out of the place... there were these saloon type swinging doors that lead to another area of the bar... and my husband hit them so hard they flew off the hinges! We both walked to the car and just sat there looking at each other. We were not going to leave cause we had brought others and knew we needed to take them home. But we sat in the car until they came out it was over an hour. We both began to weep.... and in the car gave our lives for the cause of Christ! I told the Lord that day.... that I would serve HIM until the day I die! I was 26 years old at the time and I am 41 now. We walked out on that lifestyle and honestly have never looked back since!
The Lord completely delivered both of us from the Drugs and the Drinking! Then in just a few short years even took the cigarettes! I give Him all the praise and all the Glory! He came... and gave me a NEW LIFE! It was all Him and none of me.
I must admit that it took several months of grieving over what I had done with my life... and what I had done to my children! It was a very bitter sweet time in my life! Overjoyed for what the Lord had done... but sickend by what I had let my life become!
Thankfully my children had both started to school by then... and I spent the entire day in the Word of God... In Prayer and praising Him with Singing and playing the piano. Some days I would spend 10-12 hours of day doing this! But I knew that I had to be totally grounded in Him... Plus I was so amazed and I could not get enough of my LORD! Like I said ... I had known Him with my head... and had a pretty good knowledge base of His Word.... yet when the head and the heart connected WHEW! Pure Joy! For once things began to make since... the word was alive... it was not just a Story.... Not just Religion but a RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOD OF THE UNIVERSE!
All I wanted was to remain at the feet of my Saviour! Such a sinful woman.... that just wanted to show my gratitude and love for my Lord. I was just in awe that He wanted someone like me. I had so much to be forgiven of and I think that is why I love HIM SO MUCH!
Over the next several years He was totally my all.... my life... I lived for the next moment to fall at His feet! He opened the doors for me to minister and share what he had done for me in many places. It did not matter where He said go... I was ready to go! I went to homeless shelters... to Prisons... Hospitals... Nursing Homes... Churches. I began to work with the Youth at our Church. He used my voice to speak and to sing... to testify of all that he had done!
I will admit that after several years.... the Lord took me into the wilderness! That is where I have been for the past 7 or so years! I know now it has all been a test! The Lord has been silent. It has been dry... and a very barren place! But I have vowed in my heart to never give up no matter how hard it gets! I have tasted... (and as hard as it has been at times) nothing in this world will every satisfy me like my JESUS! I know that the Lord has ...and is working it all to my Good. He is conforming me to His image. I know for certain there are things that I have learned in the valley that I could have never learned on the Mountaintop! No matter how hard it has been... He has been there to carry me all the way!
I have shared bits and pieces of it here on the forum over the past couple of years . Just never compiled it and posted it all. There is so much more I could share of all the Lord has done..... but this is pretty much how I came to Christ.
I was raised in Church. My parents took me to Church and taught me about Christ from the age of 1 week old. My Dad is a Deacon...both parents Sunday school teachers. I was blessed to be taught the Word at such an early age.
The thing was I only knew Him as a "Story" on a page. I knew Him in my head bet never truly knew Him in my heart. In High School I caved into the peer pressures and headed down a long hard road.
I spent the next 13 or 14 years in the grip of sin! It was all about the guy's... the looks and the party! I got married right out of High School at 18. Things just got steadily worse. It continued to be all about the external....what I looked like ...what I wore....what I drove. I was addicted to many drugs. But the drugs of choice were cocaine or Meth. After several years the depression set in. I would party and then just come down from the high and would cry! I wanted a different life ....I just could never seem to get out.
My 2 oldest daughters suffered! Oh it just still breaks my heart to even recall it! Yet it was them that the Lord used to begin the process of me crying out to God One night I had been up the entire night. We had been at my sister in law's house and literally had been up all night. We were outside in the back partying around the pool and playing some games. My girls who were about 4 and 5 at the time had been inside the house with their cousins. The oldest was only about 9. At some point in the wee morning hours I walked in the house to use the restroom. I opened the door and the Lord stopped me dead in my tracks! It was only 1 of about 3 or 4 times that I have heard the audible Voice of God! The Lord said "VALERIE WHAT ARE YOU DOING? LOOK AT YOUR CHILDREN....(they were lying asleep on the floor... all over the living room) He continued to speak ... "VALERIE DO YOU EVEN KNOW WHEN YOUR GIRL'S WENT TO BED.... DID THEY EVEN EAT BEFORE THEY WENT TO BED?"
Oh my WORD! I sat there with tears just streaming down my face! I just buried my face in my hands... and thought WHAT AM I DOING?
Over the next few weeks, I did absolutely nothing but weep.... I wanted a way out but I honestly did not know how I was going to get there! I had tried so many times to leave this lifestyle but I would always fail.
On this particular evening my husband and I went to a comedy club with several of our partying buddies. Mind you I was under some intensive deep conviction. The Lord had been drawing me for a few weeks at this point. That evening I had not done any drugs. We did have to purchase some beer.....(crazy thing we had free tickets but had to buy a couple of beers a piece!
really free huh) Anyway I did not even take a sip... I did not even want to be there but went anyway. We listened to the 1st comedian and when he was through... I went to the restroom. In the restroom stall I just began to sob... just like I had for a couple of weeks. I began to just cry out to God. I remember saying Lord.... I have heard about you my entire life..... yet even though I said a prayer before for you to save me..... My life has been a constant struggle! I have never had victory over anything. Lord at this point... I do not even know if you are REAL. All that I know is that if You are who your Word says You are, then Meet me here! Come down and make away for me to get out of this sick lifestyle! If you’re real come and rescue me..... and I will serve you for the REST OF MY LIFE!I pulled my self together and walked back to where my husband and others were. At this point a new comedian was on the stage. This was the absolute foulest person I had ever heard speak in my entire life! He started saying that the reason Jesus had such a following of women was because he was having sex with them all. I immediately looked at my husband my husband (which was a pretty stout guy) jumped up! We were at the VERY back of the club and the place was packed and He screamed at the top of His lungs, "YOU'RE A LIAR!"
You could have heard a pin drop in the Club! Every eye looked back to see where the scream had come from! I grabbed him by his belt loop and we left...(leaving all that were with us) As we walked out of the place... there were these saloon type swinging doors that lead to another area of the bar... and my husband hit them so hard they flew off the hinges! We both walked to the car and just sat there looking at each other. We were not going to leave cause we had brought others and knew we needed to take them home. But we sat in the car until they came out it was over an hour. We both began to weep.... and in the car gave our lives for the cause of Christ! I told the Lord that day.... that I would serve HIM until the day I die! I was 26 years old at the time and I am 41 now. We walked out on that lifestyle and honestly have never looked back since!
The Lord completely delivered both of us from the Drugs and the Drinking! Then in just a few short years even took the cigarettes! I give Him all the praise and all the Glory! He came... and gave me a NEW LIFE! It was all Him and none of me.
I must admit that it took several months of grieving over what I had done with my life... and what I had done to my children! It was a very bitter sweet time in my life! Overjoyed for what the Lord had done... but sickend by what I had let my life become!
Thankfully my children had both started to school by then... and I spent the entire day in the Word of God... In Prayer and praising Him with Singing and playing the piano. Some days I would spend 10-12 hours of day doing this! But I knew that I had to be totally grounded in Him... Plus I was so amazed and I could not get enough of my LORD! Like I said ... I had known Him with my head... and had a pretty good knowledge base of His Word.... yet when the head and the heart connected WHEW! Pure Joy! For once things began to make since... the word was alive... it was not just a Story.... Not just Religion but a RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOD OF THE UNIVERSE!
All I wanted was to remain at the feet of my Saviour! Such a sinful woman.... that just wanted to show my gratitude and love for my Lord. I was just in awe that He wanted someone like me. I had so much to be forgiven of and I think that is why I love HIM SO MUCH!
Over the next several years He was totally my all.... my life... I lived for the next moment to fall at His feet! He opened the doors for me to minister and share what he had done for me in many places. It did not matter where He said go... I was ready to go! I went to homeless shelters... to Prisons... Hospitals... Nursing Homes... Churches. I began to work with the Youth at our Church. He used my voice to speak and to sing... to testify of all that he had done!
I will admit that after several years.... the Lord took me into the wilderness! That is where I have been for the past 7 or so years! I know now it has all been a test! The Lord has been silent. It has been dry... and a very barren place! But I have vowed in my heart to never give up no matter how hard it gets! I have tasted... (and as hard as it has been at times) nothing in this world will every satisfy me like my JESUS! I know that the Lord has ...and is working it all to my Good. He is conforming me to His image. I know for certain there are things that I have learned in the valley that I could have never learned on the Mountaintop! No matter how hard it has been... He has been there to carry me all the way!
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?showtopic=16992
Researcher :
You know, as I have more than harped and posted and stated, I cannot tolerate
defamation of character.
My question would be, Stephen slanging ' bitten by a demon ', is not correct manners/conduct, as
many other's reading this are doing toward Excubitor, with their hatred of RCC.
The defamation is defamation.
So I call it out on ALL THREADS, debate the topic not the person's intelligence.
Here is some ' Defamation Juice ' . . . seems this forum is tolerate of name calling, and it
is time to pass the cup ( that one's for you Whirlwind ) and share the guilt of defamation
abuse. Someone must step up and claim the truth, set the record clear.
Why not everyone reading this, it stops today !
You know, as I have more than harped and posted and stated, I cannot tolerate
defamation of character.
My question would be, Stephen slanging ' bitten by a demon ', is not correct manners/conduct, as
many other's reading this are doing toward Excubitor, with their hatred of RCC.
The defamation is defamation.
So I call it out on ALL THREADS, debate the topic not the person's intelligence.
Here is some ' Defamation Juice ' . . . seems this forum is tolerate of name calling, and it
is time to pass the cup ( that one's for you Whirlwind ) and share the guilt of defamation
abuse. Someone must step up and claim the truth, set the record clear.
Why not everyone reading this, it stops today !
QUOTE (Messiahiscoming @ Feb 27 2008, 10:31 PM)
Chris (SpiritfilledOne) asked me to share my testiomony a wee or so ago. It made me sit down and type it up. I just have never wrote it out! So thanks Chris for asking.
I have shared bits and pieces of it here on the forum over the past couple of years . Just never compiled it and posted it all. There is so much more I could share of all the Lord has done..... but this is pretty much how I came to Christ.
I was raised in Church. My parents took me to Church and taught me about Christ from the age of 1 week old. My Dad is a Deacon...both parents Sunday school teachers. I was blessed to be taught the Word at such an early age.
The thing was I only knew Him as a "Story" on a page. I knew Him in my head bet never truly knew Him in my heart. In High School I caved into the peer pressures and headed down a long hard road.
I spent the next 13 or 14 years in the grip of sin! It was all about the guy's... the looks and the party! I got married right out of High School at 18. Things just got steadily worse. It continued to be all about the external....what I looked like ...what I wore....what I drove. I was addicted to many drugs. But the drugs of choice were cocaine or Meth. After several years the depression set in. I would party and then just come down from the high and would cry! I wanted a different life ....I just could never seem to get out.
My 2 oldest daughters suffered! Oh it just still breaks my heart to even recall it! Yet it was them that the Lord used to begin the process of me crying out to God One night I had been up the entire night. We had been at my sister in law's house and literally had been up all night. We were outside in the back partying around the pool and playing some games. My girls who were about 4 and 5 at the time had been inside the house with their cousins. The oldest was only about 9. At some point in the wee morning hours I walked in the house to use the restroom. I opened the door and the Lord stopped me dead in my tracks! It was only 1 of about 3 or 4 times that I have heard the audible Voice of God! The Lord said "VALERIE WHAT ARE YOU DOING? LOOK AT YOUR CHILDREN....(they were lying asleep on the floor... all over the living room) He continued to speak ... "VALERIE DO YOU EVEN KNOW WHEN YOUR GIRL'S WENT TO BED.... DID THEY EVEN EAT BEFORE THEY WENT TO BED?"
Oh my WORD! I sat there with tears just streaming down my face! I just buried my face in my hands... and thought WHAT AM I DOING?
Over the next few weeks, I did absolutely nothing but weep.... I wanted a way out but I honestly did not know how I was going to get there! I had tried so many times to leave this lifestyle but I would always fail.
On this particular evening my husband and I went to a comedy club with several of our partying buddies. Mind you I was under some intensive deep conviction. The Lord had been drawing me for a few weeks at this point. That evening I had not done any drugs. We did have to purchase some beer.....(crazy thing we had free tickets but had to buy a couple of beers a piece! really free huh) Anyway I did not even take a sip... I did not even want to be there but went anyway. We listened to the 1st comedian and when he was through... I went to the restroom. In the restroom stall I just began to sob... just like I had for a couple of weeks. I began to just cry out to God. I remember saying Lord.... I have heard about you my entire life..... yet even though I said a prayer before for you to save me..... My life has been a constant struggle! I have never had victory over anything. Lord at this point... I do not even know if you are REAL. All that I know is that if You are who your Word says You are, then Meet me here! Come down and make away for me to get out of this sick lifestyle! If you’re real come and rescue me..... and I will serve you for the REST OF MY LIFE!
I pulled my self together and walked back to where my husband and others were. At this point a new comedian was on the stage. This was the absolute foulest person I had ever heard speak in my entire life! He started saying that the reason Jesus had such a following of women was because he was having sex with them all. I immediately looked at my husband my husband (which was a pretty stout guy) jumped up! We were at the VERY back of the club and the place was packed and He screamed at the top of His lungs, "YOU'RE A LIAR!"
You could have heard a pin drop in the Club! Every eye looked back to see where the scream had come from! I grabbed him by his belt loop and we left...(leaving all that were with us) As we walked out of the place... there were these saloon type swinging doors that lead to another area of the bar... and my husband hit them so hard they flew off the hinges! We both walked to the car and just sat there looking at each other. We were not going to leave cause we had brought others and knew we needed to take them home. But we sat in the car until they came out it was over an hour. We both began to weep.... and in the car gave our lives for the cause of Christ! I told the Lord that day.... that I would serve HIM until the day I die! I was 26 years old at the time and I am 41 now. We walked out on that lifestyle and honestly have never looked back since!
The Lord completely delivered both of us from the Drugs and the Drinking! Then in just a few short years even took the cigarettes! I give Him all the praise and all the Glory! He came... and gave me a NEW LIFE! It was all Him and none of me.
I must admit that it took several months of grieving over what I had done with my life... and what I had done to my children! It was a very bitter sweet time in my life! Overjoyed for what the Lord had done... but sickend by what I had let my life become!
Thankfully my children had both started to school by then... and I spent the entire day in the Word of God... In Prayer and praising Him with Singing and playing the piano. Some days I would spend 10-12 hours of day doing this! But I knew that I had to be totally grounded in Him... Plus I was so amazed and I could not get enough of my LORD! Like I said ... I had known Him with my head... and had a pretty good knowledge base of His Word.... yet when the head and the heart connected WHEW! Pure Joy! For once things began to make since... the word was alive... it was not just a Story.... Not just Religion but a RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOD OF THE UNIVERSE!
All I wanted was to remain at the feet of my Saviour! Such a sinful woman.... that just wanted to show my gratitude and love for my Lord. I was just in awe that He wanted someone like me. I had so much to be forgiven of and I think that is why I love HIM SO MUCH!
Over the next several years He was totally my all.... my life... I lived for the next moment to fall at His feet! He opened the doors for me to minister and share what he had done for me in many places. It did not matter where He said go... I was ready to go! I went to homeless shelters... to Prisons... Hospitals... Nursing Homes... Churches. I began to work with the Youth at our Church. He used my voice to speak and to sing... to testify of all that he had done!
I will admit that after several years.... the Lord took me into the wilderness! That is where I have been for the past 7 or so years! I know now it has all been a test! The Lord has been silent. It has been dry... and a very barren place! But I have vowed in my heart to never give up no matter how hard it gets! I have tasted... (and as hard as it has been at times) nothing in this world will every satisfy me like my JESUS! I know that the Lord has ...and is working it all to my Good. He is conforming me to His image. I know for certain there are things that I have learned in the valley that I could have never learned on the Mountaintop! No matter how hard it has been... He has been there to carry me all the way!
I have shared bits and pieces of it here on the forum over the past couple of years . Just never compiled it and posted it all. There is so much more I could share of all the Lord has done..... but this is pretty much how I came to Christ.
I was raised in Church. My parents took me to Church and taught me about Christ from the age of 1 week old. My Dad is a Deacon...both parents Sunday school teachers. I was blessed to be taught the Word at such an early age.
The thing was I only knew Him as a "Story" on a page. I knew Him in my head bet never truly knew Him in my heart. In High School I caved into the peer pressures and headed down a long hard road.
I spent the next 13 or 14 years in the grip of sin! It was all about the guy's... the looks and the party! I got married right out of High School at 18. Things just got steadily worse. It continued to be all about the external....what I looked like ...what I wore....what I drove. I was addicted to many drugs. But the drugs of choice were cocaine or Meth. After several years the depression set in. I would party and then just come down from the high and would cry! I wanted a different life ....I just could never seem to get out.
My 2 oldest daughters suffered! Oh it just still breaks my heart to even recall it! Yet it was them that the Lord used to begin the process of me crying out to God One night I had been up the entire night. We had been at my sister in law's house and literally had been up all night. We were outside in the back partying around the pool and playing some games. My girls who were about 4 and 5 at the time had been inside the house with their cousins. The oldest was only about 9. At some point in the wee morning hours I walked in the house to use the restroom. I opened the door and the Lord stopped me dead in my tracks! It was only 1 of about 3 or 4 times that I have heard the audible Voice of God! The Lord said "VALERIE WHAT ARE YOU DOING? LOOK AT YOUR CHILDREN....(they were lying asleep on the floor... all over the living room) He continued to speak ... "VALERIE DO YOU EVEN KNOW WHEN YOUR GIRL'S WENT TO BED.... DID THEY EVEN EAT BEFORE THEY WENT TO BED?"
Oh my WORD! I sat there with tears just streaming down my face! I just buried my face in my hands... and thought WHAT AM I DOING?
Over the next few weeks, I did absolutely nothing but weep.... I wanted a way out but I honestly did not know how I was going to get there! I had tried so many times to leave this lifestyle but I would always fail.
On this particular evening my husband and I went to a comedy club with several of our partying buddies. Mind you I was under some intensive deep conviction. The Lord had been drawing me for a few weeks at this point. That evening I had not done any drugs. We did have to purchase some beer.....(crazy thing we had free tickets but had to buy a couple of beers a piece!
really free huh) Anyway I did not even take a sip... I did not even want to be there but went anyway. We listened to the 1st comedian and when he was through... I went to the restroom. In the restroom stall I just began to sob... just like I had for a couple of weeks. I began to just cry out to God. I remember saying Lord.... I have heard about you my entire life..... yet even though I said a prayer before for you to save me..... My life has been a constant struggle! I have never had victory over anything. Lord at this point... I do not even know if you are REAL. All that I know is that if You are who your Word says You are, then Meet me here! Come down and make away for me to get out of this sick lifestyle! If you’re real come and rescue me..... and I will serve you for the REST OF MY LIFE!I pulled my self together and walked back to where my husband and others were. At this point a new comedian was on the stage. This was the absolute foulest person I had ever heard speak in my entire life! He started saying that the reason Jesus had such a following of women was because he was having sex with them all. I immediately looked at my husband my husband (which was a pretty stout guy) jumped up! We were at the VERY back of the club and the place was packed and He screamed at the top of His lungs, "YOU'RE A LIAR!"
You could have heard a pin drop in the Club! Every eye looked back to see where the scream had come from! I grabbed him by his belt loop and we left...(leaving all that were with us) As we walked out of the place... there were these saloon type swinging doors that lead to another area of the bar... and my husband hit them so hard they flew off the hinges! We both walked to the car and just sat there looking at each other. We were not going to leave cause we had brought others and knew we needed to take them home. But we sat in the car until they came out it was over an hour. We both began to weep.... and in the car gave our lives for the cause of Christ! I told the Lord that day.... that I would serve HIM until the day I die! I was 26 years old at the time and I am 41 now. We walked out on that lifestyle and honestly have never looked back since!
The Lord completely delivered both of us from the Drugs and the Drinking! Then in just a few short years even took the cigarettes! I give Him all the praise and all the Glory! He came... and gave me a NEW LIFE! It was all Him and none of me.
I must admit that it took several months of grieving over what I had done with my life... and what I had done to my children! It was a very bitter sweet time in my life! Overjoyed for what the Lord had done... but sickend by what I had let my life become!
Thankfully my children had both started to school by then... and I spent the entire day in the Word of God... In Prayer and praising Him with Singing and playing the piano. Some days I would spend 10-12 hours of day doing this! But I knew that I had to be totally grounded in Him... Plus I was so amazed and I could not get enough of my LORD! Like I said ... I had known Him with my head... and had a pretty good knowledge base of His Word.... yet when the head and the heart connected WHEW! Pure Joy! For once things began to make since... the word was alive... it was not just a Story.... Not just Religion but a RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOD OF THE UNIVERSE!
All I wanted was to remain at the feet of my Saviour! Such a sinful woman.... that just wanted to show my gratitude and love for my Lord. I was just in awe that He wanted someone like me. I had so much to be forgiven of and I think that is why I love HIM SO MUCH!
Over the next several years He was totally my all.... my life... I lived for the next moment to fall at His feet! He opened the doors for me to minister and share what he had done for me in many places. It did not matter where He said go... I was ready to go! I went to homeless shelters... to Prisons... Hospitals... Nursing Homes... Churches. I began to work with the Youth at our Church. He used my voice to speak and to sing... to testify of all that he had done!
I will admit that after several years.... the Lord took me into the wilderness! That is where I have been for the past 7 or so years! I know now it has all been a test! The Lord has been silent. It has been dry... and a very barren place! But I have vowed in my heart to never give up no matter how hard it gets! I have tasted... (and as hard as it has been at times) nothing in this world will every satisfy me like my JESUS! I know that the Lord has ...and is working it all to my Good. He is conforming me to His image. I know for certain there are things that I have learned in the valley that I could have never learned on the Mountaintop! No matter how hard it has been... He has been there to carry me all the way!
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?showtopic=16992
Thank you Jeff! I am nothing..... the Lord is Everything! I can only give Him the total praise for everything that He has done in my life. I was just having one of those moments earlier! Still experiencing that wilderness journey, yet I can honestly see the Promised Land in sight! I just so happen to click on this thread.... and there was my testimony. I know it was not by chance that I stumbled onto it. The Lord gave me such encouragement and it was a great reminder of all that the Lord has done in my life!
I love nothing more than to study the Word of God! Nothing else brings me more joy than this. YET.... it is not for mere knowledge that I desire to study.... I do not want merely to know the Word of God, I want to know the God of the Word.
To God be the Glory!
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...mp;#entry264868
Love in Christ,
Val
Messiahiscoming
That's not very fair. You are weighing in the balances what you think is a "good" testimony and calling another testimony less than that????? What bull! You have no right to do that! Everyones testimony is considered equal in God's eyes-where it includes His Son and how He has touched our lives.
This is outrageous behaviour Jeff and I cannot even believe that other Christians are not appalled at what you are doing
This is outrageous behaviour Jeff and I cannot even believe that other Christians are not appalled at what you are doing
QUOTE (~Selah~ @ Dec 4 2008, 10:39 AM)
That's not very fair. You are weighing in the balances what you think is a "good" testimony and calling another testimony less than that????? What bull! You have no right to do that! Everyones testimony is considered equal in God's eyes-where it includes His Son and how He has touched our lives.
This is outrageous behaviour Jeff and I cannot even believe that other Christians are not appalled at what you are doing
This is outrageous behaviour Jeff and I cannot even believe that other Christians are not appalled at what you are doing
Stephen says:
QUOTE (Stephen @ Dec 3 2008, 05:49 PM)
R,
You are either making up a story about your conversion
...... or you were bitten by a demon
You are on a dangerous track
You are either making up a story about your conversion
...... or you were bitten by a demon
You are on a dangerous track
From here: http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...st&p=268871
Which was in response to my testimony on how I was called:
QUOTE
When I was 5 I asked Jesus to come into my heart. I remember it vividly. But of course, we don't understand too much at that age, so, my calling (back) came when I was 23.
I was living in a friend's warehouse where a rock band that I sang for also practiced. Living the wannabe rockstar life of partying, fighting, etc. I was a rebel. One night I went to friend's apartment for a little get together. I ended up staying the night. In the morning, I found one of those big family bibles in the apartment. I began reading the book of Revelation as I was always interested in it when I was younger. I decided to look in the front of the bible since I had never really read any of the other books.
I turned to Genesis and began reading the Creation account. As I was reading, the page lit up, and, I understood all of the sudden that God really had made everything. Right as that happened, a voice said, "This is where the power is." I literally said, "Whoa" when this happened. I was raised in the church and went to a Christian school, so, I knew some things about God. I remember thinking, "God's trying to get my attention," and, "I can't ignore this." I knew I had to do something.
For the next three days I read the bible non-stop. I couldn't get enough. I also knew that I had to change my life. I quite the band, quit partying/drinking, and quit hanging out with my old friends. I found a church that I liked, and, went to live in a ministry house. I studied for the next four years to become a teacher/preacher. I believed that was what I wanted to do because many in my family are ministers/arch-bishops etc.. In the end, I pursued my political aspirations, and ran for Congress and governor of Ca. and became the chairman of a political party. Seventeen years after I was called back, I still serve God and look forward to what I hope is the final chapter in His plan.
I was living in a friend's warehouse where a rock band that I sang for also practiced. Living the wannabe rockstar life of partying, fighting, etc. I was a rebel. One night I went to friend's apartment for a little get together. I ended up staying the night. In the morning, I found one of those big family bibles in the apartment. I began reading the book of Revelation as I was always interested in it when I was younger. I decided to look in the front of the bible since I had never really read any of the other books.
I turned to Genesis and began reading the Creation account. As I was reading, the page lit up, and, I understood all of the sudden that God really had made everything. Right as that happened, a voice said, "This is where the power is." I literally said, "Whoa" when this happened. I was raised in the church and went to a Christian school, so, I knew some things about God. I remember thinking, "God's trying to get my attention," and, "I can't ignore this." I knew I had to do something.
For the next three days I read the bible non-stop. I couldn't get enough. I also knew that I had to change my life. I quite the band, quit partying/drinking, and quit hanging out with my old friends. I found a church that I liked, and, went to live in a ministry house. I studied for the next four years to become a teacher/preacher. I believed that was what I wanted to do because many in my family are ministers/arch-bishops etc.. In the end, I pursued my political aspirations, and ran for Congress and governor of Ca. and became the chairman of a political party. Seventeen years after I was called back, I still serve God and look forward to what I hope is the final chapter in His plan.
From: http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...c=15560&hl=
Ok Selah.
That was actually pretty funny what you said. Lol.
QUOTE (crownsevenalphabet @ Dec 4 2008, 12:52 PM)
Researcher :
You know, as I have more than harped and posted and stated, I cannot tolerate
defamation of character.
My question would be, Stephen slanging ' bitten by a demon ', is not correct manners/conduct, as
many other's reading this are doing toward Excubitor, with their hatred of RCC.
The defamation is defamation.
So I call it out on ALL THREADS, debate the topic not the person's intelligence.
Here is some ' Defamation Juice ' . . . seems this forum is tolerate of name calling, and it
is time to pass the cup ( that one's for you Whirlwind ) and share the guilt of defamation
abuse. Someone must step up and claim the truth, set the record clear.
Why not everyone reading this, it stops today !
You know, as I have more than harped and posted and stated, I cannot tolerate
defamation of character.
My question would be, Stephen slanging ' bitten by a demon ', is not correct manners/conduct, as
many other's reading this are doing toward Excubitor, with their hatred of RCC.
The defamation is defamation.
So I call it out on ALL THREADS, debate the topic not the person's intelligence.
Here is some ' Defamation Juice ' . . . seems this forum is tolerate of name calling, and it
is time to pass the cup ( that one's for you Whirlwind ) and share the guilt of defamation
abuse. Someone must step up and claim the truth, set the record clear.
Why not everyone reading this, it stops today !
One defamation, turns another and another . . .
POST#20
Nov 20 2008, 03:19 AM
Attitudes Towards The Pope, Would you help the Pope cross the road
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...25914&st=18
I voted to push and kick him, and that Jesus would too, LOL. Just 'cause it was funny.
The pope thinks he is a god over the people on earth. Jesus told us to beware of the scribes who dress in long robes and want to sit at the chief seats.
That's who the pope is, and all of his bishops.
God will lead His people who are in the Catholic church to Him. I'm sure God has people in the RCC, on the sly, doing His work. He has His people everywhere, and, not where we would think.
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...c=15684&hl=
This post has been edited by researcher: Nov 20 2008, 03:20 AM
I think these are matters that we all need to take a bit more seriously and handle a bit more carefully.
Researcher, i see where you are comming from, the responses from stephen that you have posted are troublesome and we should be concerned FOR HIM and pray for him because the things that he has said in those specific cases at least, come close to blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. The only reason I say "close" is because i believe that he does it in total ignorance and without understanding of how the Holy Spirit works in a persons life in many cases, and I believe that the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit in scripture was purposeful and they knew it was the Spirit they were defaming.
It also does make me wonder, and I have wondered many times if He has recieved the Holy Spirit because of the way that it appears all of His posts come from two places - either from name calling the brethern or from the letter of understanding scripture instead of the Spirit.
HOWEVER we should be careful and pray and love and care for Him because he is a brother in Christ, even if he has not yet received the Holy Spirit.
We should also becareful that in our trying to get stephen to share more of his walk with the Lord, that our fruit does not suffer in how we go about it.
We should also take note that some people like to not share anything personal about themselves and the Lord and sometimes they like to appear more holy for not doing so but it is scriptural to share what God does with and through us
Act 14:27 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.
Act 15:4 And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and [of] the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.
we should also consider how much of pauls walk he shared with us!
Researcher, i see where you are comming from, the responses from stephen that you have posted are troublesome and we should be concerned FOR HIM and pray for him because the things that he has said in those specific cases at least, come close to blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. The only reason I say "close" is because i believe that he does it in total ignorance and without understanding of how the Holy Spirit works in a persons life in many cases, and I believe that the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit in scripture was purposeful and they knew it was the Spirit they were defaming.
It also does make me wonder, and I have wondered many times if He has recieved the Holy Spirit because of the way that it appears all of His posts come from two places - either from name calling the brethern or from the letter of understanding scripture instead of the Spirit.
HOWEVER we should be careful and pray and love and care for Him because he is a brother in Christ, even if he has not yet received the Holy Spirit.
We should also becareful that in our trying to get stephen to share more of his walk with the Lord, that our fruit does not suffer in how we go about it.
We should also take note that some people like to not share anything personal about themselves and the Lord and sometimes they like to appear more holy for not doing so but it is scriptural to share what God does with and through us
Act 14:27 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.
Act 15:4 And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and [of] the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.
we should also consider how much of pauls walk he shared with us!
Active / Passive : DEFAMATION
ACTING LIKE, WE ARE `INNOCENT` BY NOT BEING THE GLUTON WHO ATE THE HOTDOGS,
OBSERVING IN THE CROWD, IS PARTICIPATION :
ACTING LIKE, WE ARE `INNOCENT` BY NOT BEING THE GLUTON WHO ATE THE HOTDOGS,
OBSERVING IN THE CROWD, IS PARTICIPATION :
Crown7
Lol. That was humor Crown.
And a thoughtful, well put post. TY GPR.
QUOTE
One defamation, turns another and another . . .
POST#20
Nov 20 2008, 03:19 AM
Attitudes Towards The Pope, Would you help the Pope cross the road
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...25914&st=18
I voted to push and kick him, and that Jesus would too, LOL. Just 'cause it was funny.
The pope thinks he is a god over the people on earth. Jesus told us to beware of the scribes who dress in long robes and want to sit at the chief seats.
That's who the pope is, and all of his bishops.
God will lead His people who are in the Catholic church to Him. I'm sure God has people in the RCC, on the sly, doing His work. He has His people everywhere, and, not where we would think.
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...c=15684&hl=
POST#20
Nov 20 2008, 03:19 AM
Attitudes Towards The Pope, Would you help the Pope cross the road
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...25914&st=18
I voted to push and kick him, and that Jesus would too, LOL. Just 'cause it was funny.
The pope thinks he is a god over the people on earth. Jesus told us to beware of the scribes who dress in long robes and want to sit at the chief seats.
That's who the pope is, and all of his bishops.
God will lead His people who are in the Catholic church to Him. I'm sure God has people in the RCC, on the sly, doing His work. He has His people everywhere, and, not where we would think.
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...c=15684&hl=
Lol. That was humor Crown.
QUOTE (GodspromisesRyes @ Dec 4 2008, 11:15 AM)
I think these are matters that we all need to take a bit more seriously and handle a bit more carefully.
Researcher, i see where you are comming from, the responses from stephen that you have posted are troublesome and we should be concerned FOR HIM and pray for him because the things that he has said in those specific cases at least, come close to blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. The only reason I say "close" is because i believe that he does it in total ignorance and without understanding of how the Holy Spirit works in a persons life in many cases, and I believe that the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit in scripture was purposeful and they knew it was the Spirit they were defaming.
It also does make me wonder, and I have wondered many times if He has recieved the Holy Spirit because of the way that it appears all of His posts come from two places - either from name calling the brethern or from the letter of understanding scripture instead of the Spirit.
HOWEVER we should be careful and pray and love and care for Him because he is a brother in Christ, even if he has not yet received the Holy Spirit.
We should also becareful that in our trying to get stephen to share more of his walk with the Lord, that our fruit does not suffer in how we go about it.
We should also take note that some people like to not share anything personal about themselves and the Lord and sometimes they like to appear more holy for not doing so but it is scriptural to share what God does with and through us
Act 14:27 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.
Act 15:4 And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and [of] the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.
we should also consider how much of pauls walk he shared with us!
Researcher, i see where you are comming from, the responses from stephen that you have posted are troublesome and we should be concerned FOR HIM and pray for him because the things that he has said in those specific cases at least, come close to blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. The only reason I say "close" is because i believe that he does it in total ignorance and without understanding of how the Holy Spirit works in a persons life in many cases, and I believe that the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit in scripture was purposeful and they knew it was the Spirit they were defaming.
It also does make me wonder, and I have wondered many times if He has recieved the Holy Spirit because of the way that it appears all of His posts come from two places - either from name calling the brethern or from the letter of understanding scripture instead of the Spirit.
HOWEVER we should be careful and pray and love and care for Him because he is a brother in Christ, even if he has not yet received the Holy Spirit.
We should also becareful that in our trying to get stephen to share more of his walk with the Lord, that our fruit does not suffer in how we go about it.
We should also take note that some people like to not share anything personal about themselves and the Lord and sometimes they like to appear more holy for not doing so but it is scriptural to share what God does with and through us
Act 14:27 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.
Act 15:4 And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and [of] the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.
we should also consider how much of pauls walk he shared with us!
And a thoughtful, well put post.
TY GPR.
QUOTE (HeIsFaithful @ Dec 4 2008, 03:18 AM)
and again....
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences
contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences
contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
Stephen says:
QUOTE (Stephen @ Dec 3 2008, 05:49 PM)
R,
You are either making up a story about your conversion
...... or you were bitten by a demon
You are on a dangerous track
You are either making up a story about your conversion
...... or you were bitten by a demon
You are on a dangerous track
From here: http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...st&p=268871
Which was in response to my testimony on how I was called:
QUOTE
When I was 5 I asked Jesus to come into my heart. I remember it vividly. But of course, we don't understand too much at that age, so, my calling (back) came when I was 23.
I was living in a friend's warehouse where a rock band that I sang for also practiced. Living the wannabe rockstar life of partying, fighting, etc. I was a rebel. One night I went to friend's apartment for a little get together. I ended up staying the night. In the morning, I found one of those big family bibles in the apartment. I began reading the book of Revelation as I was always interested in it when I was younger. I decided to look in the front of the bible since I had never really read any of the other books.
I turned to Genesis and began reading the Creation account. As I was reading, the page lit up, and, I understood all of the sudden that God really had made everything. Right as that happened, a voice said, "This is where the power is." I literally said, "Whoa" when this happened. I was raised in the church and went to a Christian school, so, I knew some things about God. I remember thinking, "God's trying to get my attention," and, "I can't ignore this." I knew I had to do something.
For the next three days I read the bible non-stop. I couldn't get enough. I also knew that I had to change my life. I quite the band, quit partying/drinking, and quit hanging out with my old friends. I found a church that I liked, and, went to live in a ministry house. I studied for the next four years to become a teacher/preacher. I believed that was what I wanted to do because many in my family are ministers/arch-bishops etc.. In the end, I pursued my political aspirations, and ran for Congress and governor of Ca. and became the chairman of a political party. Seventeen years after I was called back, I still serve God and look forward to what I hope is the final chapter in His plan.
I was living in a friend's warehouse where a rock band that I sang for also practiced. Living the wannabe rockstar life of partying, fighting, etc. I was a rebel. One night I went to friend's apartment for a little get together. I ended up staying the night. In the morning, I found one of those big family bibles in the apartment. I began reading the book of Revelation as I was always interested in it when I was younger. I decided to look in the front of the bible since I had never really read any of the other books.
I turned to Genesis and began reading the Creation account. As I was reading, the page lit up, and, I understood all of the sudden that God really had made everything. Right as that happened, a voice said, "This is where the power is." I literally said, "Whoa" when this happened. I was raised in the church and went to a Christian school, so, I knew some things about God. I remember thinking, "God's trying to get my attention," and, "I can't ignore this." I knew I had to do something.
For the next three days I read the bible non-stop. I couldn't get enough. I also knew that I had to change my life. I quite the band, quit partying/drinking, and quit hanging out with my old friends. I found a church that I liked, and, went to live in a ministry house. I studied for the next four years to become a teacher/preacher. I believed that was what I wanted to do because many in my family are ministers/arch-bishops etc.. In the end, I pursued my political aspirations, and ran for Congress and governor of Ca. and became the chairman of a political party. Seventeen years after I was called back, I still serve God and look forward to what I hope is the final chapter in His plan.
From: http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...c=15560&hl=
I'll try not to cause division HIF.
I think Stephen should get a puppy.....
QUOTE (NIGHTMARE @ Dec 4 2008, 03:56 PM)
I think Stephen should get a puppy.....
I can't tell you what a joy it is to open one of your posts and read things like that.
QUOTE (Messiahiscoming @ Dec 4 2008, 10:18 AM)
QUOTE (Messiahiscoming @ Feb 27 2008, 10:31 PM)
Chris (SpiritfilledOne) asked me to share my testiomony a wee or so ago. It made me sit down and type it up. I just have never wrote it out! So thanks Chris for asking.
I have shared bits and pieces of it here on the forum over the past couple of years . Just never compiled it and posted it all. There is so much more I could share of all the Lord has done..... but this is pretty much how I came to Christ.
I was raised in Church. My parents took me to Church and taught me about Christ from the age of 1 week old. My Dad is a Deacon...both parents Sunday school teachers. I was blessed to be taught the Word at such an early age.
The thing was I only knew Him as a "Story" on a page. I knew Him in my head bet never truly knew Him in my heart. In High School I caved into the peer pressures and headed down a long hard road.
I spent the next 13 or 14 years in the grip of sin! It was all about the guy's... the looks and the party! I got married right out of High School at 18. Things just got steadily worse. It continued to be all about the external....what I looked like ...what I wore....what I drove. I was addicted to many drugs. But the drugs of choice were cocaine or Meth. After several years the depression set in. I would party and then just come down from the high and would cry! I wanted a different life ....I just could never seem to get out.
My 2 oldest daughters suffered! Oh it just still breaks my heart to even recall it! Yet it was them that the Lord used to begin the process of me crying out to God One night I had been up the entire night. We had been at my sister in law's house and literally had been up all night. We were outside in the back partying around the pool and playing some games. My girls who were about 4 and 5 at the time had been inside the house with their cousins. The oldest was only about 9. At some point in the wee morning hours I walked in the house to use the restroom. I opened the door and the Lord stopped me dead in my tracks! It was only 1 of about 3 or 4 times that I have heard the audible Voice of God! The Lord said "VALERIE WHAT ARE YOU DOING? LOOK AT YOUR CHILDREN....(they were lying asleep on the floor... all over the living room) He continued to speak ... "VALERIE DO YOU EVEN KNOW WHEN YOUR GIRL'S WENT TO BED.... DID THEY EVEN EAT BEFORE THEY WENT TO BED?"
Oh my WORD! I sat there with tears just streaming down my face! I just buried my face in my hands... and thought WHAT AM I DOING?
Over the next few weeks, I did absolutely nothing but weep.... I wanted a way out but I honestly did not know how I was going to get there! I had tried so many times to leave this lifestyle but I would always fail.
On this particular evening my husband and I went to a comedy club with several of our partying buddies. Mind you I was under some intensive deep conviction. The Lord had been drawing me for a few weeks at this point. That evening I had not done any drugs. We did have to purchase some beer.....(crazy thing we had free tickets but had to buy a couple of beers a piece! really free huh) Anyway I did not even take a sip... I did not even want to be there but went anyway. We listened to the 1st comedian and when he was through... I went to the restroom. In the restroom stall I just began to sob... just like I had for a couple of weeks. I began to just cry out to God. I remember saying Lord.... I have heard about you my entire life..... yet even though I said a prayer before for you to save me..... My life has been a constant struggle! I have never had victory over anything. Lord at this point... I do not even know if you are REAL. All that I know is that if You are who your Word says You are, then Meet me here! Come down and make away for me to get out of this sick lifestyle! If you’re real come and rescue me..... and I will serve you for the REST OF MY LIFE!
I pulled my self together and walked back to where my husband and others were. At this point a new comedian was on the stage. This was the absolute foulest person I had ever heard speak in my entire life! He started saying that the reason Jesus had such a following of women was because he was having sex with them all. I immediately looked at my husband my husband (which was a pretty stout guy) jumped up! We were at the VERY back of the club and the place was packed and He screamed at the top of His lungs, "YOU'RE A LIAR!"
You could have heard a pin drop in the Club! Every eye looked back to see where the scream had come from! I grabbed him by his belt loop and we left...(leaving all that were with us) As we walked out of the place... there were these saloon type swinging doors that lead to another area of the bar... and my husband hit them so hard they flew off the hinges! We both walked to the car and just sat there looking at each other. We were not going to leave cause we had brought others and knew we needed to take them home. But we sat in the car until they came out it was over an hour. We both began to weep.... and in the car gave our lives for the cause of Christ! I told the Lord that day.... that I would serve HIM until the day I die! I was 26 years old at the time and I am 41 now. We walked out on that lifestyle and honestly have never looked back since!
The Lord completely delivered both of us from the Drugs and the Drinking! Then in just a few short years even took the cigarettes! I give Him all the praise and all the Glory! He came... and gave me a NEW LIFE! It was all Him and none of me.
I must admit that it took several months of grieving over what I had done with my life... and what I had done to my children! It was a very bitter sweet time in my life! Overjoyed for what the Lord had done... but sickend by what I had let my life become!
Thankfully my children had both started to school by then... and I spent the entire day in the Word of God... In Prayer and praising Him with Singing and playing the piano. Some days I would spend 10-12 hours of day doing this! But I knew that I had to be totally grounded in Him... Plus I was so amazed and I could not get enough of my LORD! Like I said ... I had known Him with my head... and had a pretty good knowledge base of His Word.... yet when the head and the heart connected WHEW! Pure Joy! For once things began to make since... the word was alive... it was not just a Story.... Not just Religion but a RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOD OF THE UNIVERSE!
All I wanted was to remain at the feet of my Saviour! Such a sinful woman.... that just wanted to show my gratitude and love for my Lord. I was just in awe that He wanted someone like me. I had so much to be forgiven of and I think that is why I love HIM SO MUCH!
Over the next several years He was totally my all.... my life... I lived for the next moment to fall at His feet! He opened the doors for me to minister and share what he had done for me in many places. It did not matter where He said go... I was ready to go! I went to homeless shelters... to Prisons... Hospitals... Nursing Homes... Churches. I began to work with the Youth at our Church. He used my voice to speak and to sing... to testify of all that he had done!
I will admit that after several years.... the Lord took me into the wilderness! That is where I have been for the past 7 or so years! I know now it has all been a test! The Lord has been silent. It has been dry... and a very barren place! But I have vowed in my heart to never give up no matter how hard it gets! I have tasted... (and as hard as it has been at times) nothing in this world will every satisfy me like my JESUS! I know that the Lord has ...and is working it all to my Good. He is conforming me to His image. I know for certain there are things that I have learned in the valley that I could have never learned on the Mountaintop! No matter how hard it has been... He has been there to carry me all the way!
I have shared bits and pieces of it here on the forum over the past couple of years . Just never compiled it and posted it all. There is so much more I could share of all the Lord has done..... but this is pretty much how I came to Christ.
I was raised in Church. My parents took me to Church and taught me about Christ from the age of 1 week old. My Dad is a Deacon...both parents Sunday school teachers. I was blessed to be taught the Word at such an early age.
The thing was I only knew Him as a "Story" on a page. I knew Him in my head bet never truly knew Him in my heart. In High School I caved into the peer pressures and headed down a long hard road.
I spent the next 13 or 14 years in the grip of sin! It was all about the guy's... the looks and the party! I got married right out of High School at 18. Things just got steadily worse. It continued to be all about the external....what I looked like ...what I wore....what I drove. I was addicted to many drugs. But the drugs of choice were cocaine or Meth. After several years the depression set in. I would party and then just come down from the high and would cry! I wanted a different life ....I just could never seem to get out.
My 2 oldest daughters suffered! Oh it just still breaks my heart to even recall it! Yet it was them that the Lord used to begin the process of me crying out to God One night I had been up the entire night. We had been at my sister in law's house and literally had been up all night. We were outside in the back partying around the pool and playing some games. My girls who were about 4 and 5 at the time had been inside the house with their cousins. The oldest was only about 9. At some point in the wee morning hours I walked in the house to use the restroom. I opened the door and the Lord stopped me dead in my tracks! It was only 1 of about 3 or 4 times that I have heard the audible Voice of God! The Lord said "VALERIE WHAT ARE YOU DOING? LOOK AT YOUR CHILDREN....(they were lying asleep on the floor... all over the living room) He continued to speak ... "VALERIE DO YOU EVEN KNOW WHEN YOUR GIRL'S WENT TO BED.... DID THEY EVEN EAT BEFORE THEY WENT TO BED?"
Oh my WORD! I sat there with tears just streaming down my face! I just buried my face in my hands... and thought WHAT AM I DOING?
Over the next few weeks, I did absolutely nothing but weep.... I wanted a way out but I honestly did not know how I was going to get there! I had tried so many times to leave this lifestyle but I would always fail.
On this particular evening my husband and I went to a comedy club with several of our partying buddies. Mind you I was under some intensive deep conviction. The Lord had been drawing me for a few weeks at this point. That evening I had not done any drugs. We did have to purchase some beer.....(crazy thing we had free tickets but had to buy a couple of beers a piece!
really free huh) Anyway I did not even take a sip... I did not even want to be there but went anyway. We listened to the 1st comedian and when he was through... I went to the restroom. In the restroom stall I just began to sob... just like I had for a couple of weeks. I began to just cry out to God. I remember saying Lord.... I have heard about you my entire life..... yet even though I said a prayer before for you to save me..... My life has been a constant struggle! I have never had victory over anything. Lord at this point... I do not even know if you are REAL. All that I know is that if You are who your Word says You are, then Meet me here! Come down and make away for me to get out of this sick lifestyle! If you’re real come and rescue me..... and I will serve you for the REST OF MY LIFE!I pulled my self together and walked back to where my husband and others were. At this point a new comedian was on the stage. This was the absolute foulest person I had ever heard speak in my entire life! He started saying that the reason Jesus had such a following of women was because he was having sex with them all. I immediately looked at my husband my husband (which was a pretty stout guy) jumped up! We were at the VERY back of the club and the place was packed and He screamed at the top of His lungs, "YOU'RE A LIAR!"
You could have heard a pin drop in the Club! Every eye looked back to see where the scream had come from! I grabbed him by his belt loop and we left...(leaving all that were with us) As we walked out of the place... there were these saloon type swinging doors that lead to another area of the bar... and my husband hit them so hard they flew off the hinges! We both walked to the car and just sat there looking at each other. We were not going to leave cause we had brought others and knew we needed to take them home. But we sat in the car until they came out it was over an hour. We both began to weep.... and in the car gave our lives for the cause of Christ! I told the Lord that day.... that I would serve HIM until the day I die! I was 26 years old at the time and I am 41 now. We walked out on that lifestyle and honestly have never looked back since!
The Lord completely delivered both of us from the Drugs and the Drinking! Then in just a few short years even took the cigarettes! I give Him all the praise and all the Glory! He came... and gave me a NEW LIFE! It was all Him and none of me.
I must admit that it took several months of grieving over what I had done with my life... and what I had done to my children! It was a very bitter sweet time in my life! Overjoyed for what the Lord had done... but sickend by what I had let my life become!
Thankfully my children had both started to school by then... and I spent the entire day in the Word of God... In Prayer and praising Him with Singing and playing the piano. Some days I would spend 10-12 hours of day doing this! But I knew that I had to be totally grounded in Him... Plus I was so amazed and I could not get enough of my LORD! Like I said ... I had known Him with my head... and had a pretty good knowledge base of His Word.... yet when the head and the heart connected WHEW! Pure Joy! For once things began to make since... the word was alive... it was not just a Story.... Not just Religion but a RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOD OF THE UNIVERSE!
All I wanted was to remain at the feet of my Saviour! Such a sinful woman.... that just wanted to show my gratitude and love for my Lord. I was just in awe that He wanted someone like me. I had so much to be forgiven of and I think that is why I love HIM SO MUCH!
Over the next several years He was totally my all.... my life... I lived for the next moment to fall at His feet! He opened the doors for me to minister and share what he had done for me in many places. It did not matter where He said go... I was ready to go! I went to homeless shelters... to Prisons... Hospitals... Nursing Homes... Churches. I began to work with the Youth at our Church. He used my voice to speak and to sing... to testify of all that he had done!
I will admit that after several years.... the Lord took me into the wilderness! That is where I have been for the past 7 or so years! I know now it has all been a test! The Lord has been silent. It has been dry... and a very barren place! But I have vowed in my heart to never give up no matter how hard it gets! I have tasted... (and as hard as it has been at times) nothing in this world will every satisfy me like my JESUS! I know that the Lord has ...and is working it all to my Good. He is conforming me to His image. I know for certain there are things that I have learned in the valley that I could have never learned on the Mountaintop! No matter how hard it has been... He has been there to carry me all the way!
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?showtopic=16992
Thank you Jeff! I am nothing..... the Lord is Everything! I can only give Him the total praise for everything that He has done in my life. I was just having one of those moments earlier! Still experiencing that wilderness journey, yet I can honestly see the Promised Land in sight! I just so happen to click on this thread.... and there was my testimony. I know it was not by chance that I stumbled onto it. The Lord gave me such encouragement and it was a great reminder of all that the Lord has done in my life!
I love nothing more than to study the Word of God! Nothing else brings me more joy than this. YET.... it is not for mere knowledge that I desire to study.... I do not want merely to know the Word of God, I want to know the God of the Word.
To God be the Glory!
http://www.christian-forum.net/index.php?s...mp;#entry264868
Love in Christ,
Val
Messiahiscoming
You're welcome Val!
I enjoyed reading it! I love seeing God do stuff in people's lives! AWESOME!
QUOTE (researcher @ Dec 4 2008, 04:17 PM)
You're welcome Val! I enjoyed reading it! I love seeing God do stuff in people's lives! AWESOME!
I enjoyed reading it! I love seeing God do stuff in people's lives! AWESOME! It was awesome and I really enjoyed it to. Thank you for writing it Val and thank you for reposting it Jeff.
I hope that some of you realize that my response to Jeff was not saying that Stephen's testimony was less then my story!
I feel that is what some have insinuated. I hate the mudd slinging.
But to say that this is all one sided is just not fair! I love Stephen.... although we do not see eye to eye on some things. I love Jeff.... although we have not seen eye to eye on some things. Yet to only say this is one-sided is just not fair.
Should Jeff have started this thread? Probably not.... I am sure there are ways to hear Stephen's testimony. Yet Stephen has not been innocent in all of this either... He has questioned Jeff's walk and His relationship as well.
I just wanted you to know from my response earlier.... that I was NOT saying that Stephen's testimony and walk is less than my walk! I have said for almost 3 years now... that I am nothing more than a sinner saved by the Grace of God. My story is just that a story of what GOD has done in my life.... I take no credit for anything! He alone is worthy to be praised!
Love in Christ,
Val
Messiahiscoming
I feel that is what some have insinuated. I hate the mudd slinging.
But to say that this is all one sided is just not fair! I love Stephen.... although we do not see eye to eye on some things. I love Jeff.... although we have not seen eye to eye on some things. Yet to only say this is one-sided is just not fair.
Should Jeff have started this thread? Probably not.... I am sure there are ways to hear Stephen's testimony. Yet Stephen has not been innocent in all of this either... He has questioned Jeff's walk and His relationship as well.
I just wanted you to know from my response earlier.... that I was NOT saying that Stephen's testimony and walk is less than my walk! I have said for almost 3 years now... that I am nothing more than a sinner saved by the Grace of God. My story is just that a story of what GOD has done in my life.... I take no credit for anything! He alone is worthy to be praised!
Love in Christ,
Val
Messiahiscoming
QUOTE (Messiahiscoming @ Dec 4 2008, 04:24 PM)
I hope that some of you realize that my response to Jeff was not saying that Stephen's testimony was less then my story!
I feel that is what some have insinuated. I hate the mudd slinging.
But to say that this is all one sided is just not fair! I love Stephen.... although we do not see eye to eye on some things. I love Jeff.... although we have not seen eye to eye on some things. Yet to only say this is one-sided is just not fair.
Should Jeff have started this thread? Probably not.... I am sure there are ways to hear Stephen's testimony. Yet Stephen has not been innocent in all of this either... He has questioned Jeff's walk and His relationship as well.
I just wanted you to know from my response earlier.... that I was NOT saying that Stephen's testimony and walk is less than my walk! I have said for almost 3 years now... that I am nothing more than a sinner saved by the Grace of God. My story is just that a story of what GOD has done in my life.... I take no credit for anything! He alone is worthy to be praised!
Love in Christ,
Val
Messiahiscoming
I feel that is what some have insinuated. I hate the mudd slinging.
But to say that this is all one sided is just not fair! I love Stephen.... although we do not see eye to eye on some things. I love Jeff.... although we have not seen eye to eye on some things. Yet to only say this is one-sided is just not fair.
Should Jeff have started this thread? Probably not.... I am sure there are ways to hear Stephen's testimony. Yet Stephen has not been innocent in all of this either... He has questioned Jeff's walk and His relationship as well.
I just wanted you to know from my response earlier.... that I was NOT saying that Stephen's testimony and walk is less than my walk! I have said for almost 3 years now... that I am nothing more than a sinner saved by the Grace of God. My story is just that a story of what GOD has done in my life.... I take no credit for anything! He alone is worthy to be praised!
Love in Christ,
Val
Messiahiscoming
I can only answer for myself but I don't think anyone thought that.
QUOTE (Messiahiscoming @ Dec 4 2008, 12:24 PM)
I hope that some of you realize that my response to Jeff was not saying that Stephen's testimony was less then my story!
I feel that is what some have insinuated. I hate the mudd slinging.
I feel that is what some have insinuated. I hate the mudd slinging.