It does not take a prophet to tell that the tone in America has been becoming more extreme lately. This has been especially true in the media, which has been trying to take the authority to dictate the conversation, not just report on it. Some in the media are so immature or unstable that they see anyone who deviates a little from their position as an extremist, which causes more extreme reactions on the other side. This is creating forces that are pulling on both the left and right wings of our eagle and will soon pull the eagle apart if it is not stopped.

     Compared to the kingdom of God, all of the issues of this present world are boring. We must be engaged in the issues of this present world, at least to the degree that is necessary in order for us to be the salt and light we’re called to be. However, to be this salt and light, we must see and live in the kingdom to demonstrate its alternative ways and wisdom.

Bob Jones: Lust, doubt, and spiritual error come from not being rooted and grounded in love.

Bob Jones:Those who remove the landmarks are the ones who devour the flocks...This is promoting a freedom that really is lawlessness, or a false freedom. To this we could add that the beginning of pride usually comes when we try to start taking credit for the things that God has done. (Bob was given Job 24:2; Proverbs 22:28).

      Last week we discussed some of the basics on how to recognize the prophetic burden of the Lord. This week we will discuss how to be misled into thinking that a burden is prophetic when it is really our own concern or a burden someone else has put on us.

         Last week we addressed the symbolism in the Lord’s throne, as spoken of in Revelation 4:1-3. This week we will cover verse 4:

         Around the throne were twenty-four thrones; and upon the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white garments, and golden crowns on their heads.

For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

 

For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Galatians 5:13-14).

As we enter more into the times that Hebrews 12 describes, when everything that can be shaken will be shaken, Christians who are not established on the solid foundation are going to be shaken right along with the rest of the world. The Lord shook Egypt to its foundation in order to set His people free. In the Scriptures, Egypt is often used as a metaphor for the world, and the reason why the world is starting to be shaken to its foundation is for the same reason—to set God’s people free.

As we discussed last week, joy and peace will become increasing hallmarks of those who are building their lives on the kingdom of God and living their lives in the kingdom. It will be by their peace and joy that true Christians will begin to be distinguished. As these grow in their lives, so will their love of God, their love for one another, and love for their neighbors. In a world of increasing fear and confusion, Christians will be going about casting out fear with the power of the love of God manifesting itself through them.

As we continue our study of the antichrist, let us always keep in mind that it is far more important to know what Christ is doing than what the antichrist is doing. At the same time that the antichrist is seeking to take over the world, the foundation for the kingdom is being laid that will prevail over it.

In the midst of so much suffering that we are witnessing from the Katrina disaster, this study may seem out of place. However, I think the timing is perfect. It is the joy of the Lord that is our strength in any situation, and we can and should have joy in Him in any and every situation.