Good morning, Tallahassee! You’re listening to Wave 94.1, and I’m Servant Marcia from Heaven on Earth Ministries of Jesus Christ. Today, I’m excited to introduce a new program called In the Days of Noah. I’ve been praying and asking the Holy Spirit to guide this teaching because it is both timely and complex. So before we begin, let us pray: Holy Spirit, today we ask You to release the word You want us to hear. Activate our spirit man so that we may receive what You are speaking to us. In Jesus’ name, Amen. A Critical Warning from Jesus This topic is not just fascinating—it’s crucial. We’re going to look at what Jesus Himself said about the days of Noah, and why He compared them to the time of His return. In Matthew 24, Jesus was asked by His disciples about the signs of His coming and the end of the age. He responded: “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.” (Matthew 24:36-37, NKJV) Jesus explained that just as people were going about life as usual—eating, drinking, marrying—before the flood came, so it will be before His return. People were unaware until Noah entered the ark and the flood swept them all away. This is a powerful warning for us today. The Call to Watch Jesus goes on to caution His followers: “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.” (Matthew 24:42) Watching isn't easy. We’re constantly bombarded by distractions—work, family, finances, health, entertainment. But Jesus compared His return to a thief coming in the night: if the master of the house had known when the thief was coming, he would have watched. That’s the level of alertness we’re called to. As disciples of Jesus, we’re being disciplined into His lifestyle. We must stay ready, because He is coming at an unexpected hour. The Age of Grace is Coming to a Close Why study the days of Noah now? Because we are living in the "Age of Grace," also known as the Church Age—a period that began when the Holy Spirit was poured out on believers during Pentecost (Acts 2). This age will come to an end. Jesus is returning—not just once, but twice. First, to gather His believers in what many call the Rapture. Later, after a time of tribulation, He will return again, riding on a white horse, bringing judgment and justice. Living in Dangerous Times Isaiah 2 warns us that even God’s people can drift into darkness if they stop walking in the light: “For You have forsaken Your people, the house of Jacob, because they are filled with eastern ways...Their land is also full of idols; they worship the work of their own hands.” (Isaiah 2:6-8) Idolatry is not just about statues—it's anything we exalt above God. Our work, wealth, even relationships can become idols. The Lord is calling us to return to the light, to remain filled with the Holy Spirit, and to be vigilant. So, What Happened in the Days of Noah? Let’s go back. During the first 1,500 years after Adam, people lived long lives—Adam lived 930 years, Methuselah 969, Noah 950. The Earth was healthier. People were strong, and life was sustained by a mist, not rain (Genesis 2:6). But something dramatic changed. Genesis 6 describes a shocking spiritual rebellion: “When men began to multiply on the face of the earth...the sons of God saw the daughters of men, that they were beautiful; and they took wives for themselves of all whom they chose.” (Genesis 6:1-2) These "sons of God" are believed to be angelic beings—commonly referred to as Watchers or Fallen Angels—who left their divine assignment. Instead of simply observing or guiding, they entered into forbidden relationships with human women. Who Were the Watchers? The Book of Enoch expands on this. It tells us that 200 angelic beings made a pact to descend to Earth, led by two chief angels. Their plan? To take wives for themselves and teach humanity forbidden knowledge. These Watchers landed on Mount Hermon and defiled their heavenly purpose. Not only did they produce a race of giants—referred to in Genesis 6:4 as "mighty men of old, men of renown"—but they introduced evil and corrupt knowledge that mankind was never meant to possess. This wasn't just rebellion; it was a corruption of God’s creation at the genetic, moral, and spiritual level. Human DNA began to be altered. But Noah was different. Scripture says: “Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations.” (Genesis 6:9) This suggests that Noah’s lineage remained untainted. That’s why he found favor with God. God’s Grief and the Global Flood Genesis 6:5 tells us: “Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” This grieved God deeply. So much so that He determined to destroy mankind with a flood. Yet, in His mercy, He spared Noah and his family, setting in motion a fresh start. Why This Matters Today So why did Jesus refer to the days of Noah when speaking about the end times? Because the spiritual conditions are returning: Rampant violence Sexual immorality Spiritual rebellion Disregard for God’s design Corruption of truth and nature Widespread idolatry The flood was not just a historical event—it was a warning, a foreshadowing of what is to come. We are seeing those signs again. That’s why we must stay alert, filled with the Holy Spirit, and walking in the light of the Lord. Final Thoughts This message is just the beginning. There’s so much more to unpack about the Watchers, the forbidden knowledge, and the spiritual war that continues today. You’re listening to Heaven on Earth Ministries of Jesus Christ, and I’m Servant Marcia. I encourage you to open your Bible, pray for wisdom, and examine the times. Ask yourself: Are we living in the days of Noah? And if so—are you ready? Stay tuned for more as we continue to explore this powerful and necessary topic. Originally aired Nov. 6, 2024.
In times of uncertainty—political shifts, social unrest, spiritual confusion—many are asking, “What is going on?” The answer can be found by looking back to the beginning. In Genesis 6, God gives us a prophetic image of the end times through the story of Noah. And Jesus confirmed it when He said, “As it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be at the coming of the Son of Man” (Matthew 24:37). **What Were the Days of Noah Really Like?** Genesis 6 reveals a world where human wickedness was increasing rapidly. The “sons of God” (fallen angels) took human wives, and their offspring were known as Nephilim—giants, mighty and unnatural. These were not fully human, and their existence corrupted God's design for mankind. These beings were the product of angelic rebellion. They taught humanity forbidden knowledge—alchemy, astrology, weapon-making, and sorcery. What God had created good, these beings defiled. And God saw that every thought of man’s heart had become only evil continually (Genesis 6:5). But in the midst of that darkness, one man stood out—Noah. He was “a just man, perfect in his generations,” and he “walked with God” (Genesis 6:9). That statement—“perfect in his generations”—means not just morally upright, but genetically uncorrupted. He was pure in his genealogy. --- **God Is Still Looking for the Just and the Pure** So I ask you today: Are you just and pure in genealogy? Not just in DNA, but in spirit—have you been born again into the uncorrupted lineage of Christ? Jesus said in John 3:7, “You must be born again.” This is more than religious language. It's about a spiritual rebirth that transcends corrupted flesh and brings us into the family of God. Many today are unknowingly tainted—not just by sin, but by a world that is rapidly embracing the same kinds of genetic manipulation, spiritual corruption, and demonic influence that defined Noah’s generation. --- **A Personal Revelation** Let me be real with you. I come from a bloodline that includes individuals born with six fingers—a known biblical marker of Nephilim lineage (2 Samuel 21:20). That makes this message personal for me. But I know that through faith in Jesus Christ, I have been spiritually reborn into a new genealogy, one that is pure and holy. This is why it’s urgent to not just believe in God but to live by faith, as Noah did. Hebrews 11:7 says, “By faith Noah… became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.” That inheritance is available to you—if you're willing to walk with God in faith and obedience. --- **Modern Echoes of Ancient Corruption** Romans 1 speaks of those who become “inventors of evil things.” That’s today. We're seeing an explosion of technological and moral perversion—AI weaponry, transhumanism, virtual sexual experiences—all of which echo the forbidden inventions of Noah’s day. Why does Satan target sexuality so fiercely? Because “the body is not for sexual immorality but for the Lord” (1 Corinthians 6:13). Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Sexual sin is a direct assault on God's temple. It opens spiritual doors to demonic influence. If we defile our bodies, we grieve the Spirit. But if we walk in purity, we glorify God with our whole being—body, soul, and spirit. --- **Abortion: Modern Bloodshed** Violence filled the earth in Noah’s time, and it's no different today. But one of the most insidious forms of modern violence is abortion. According to the World Health Organization, over 200,000 abortions occur worldwide every day. That’s more than 73 million per year—a staggering figure that reveals just how far we’ve strayed from the sanctity of life. When we destroy life in the womb, we destroy the image of God. The Bible says that God knew us before we were formed in the womb (Jeremiah 1:5). Life is sacred from the very beginning. --- **A Warning from Psalm 106** Psalm 106 outlines the sins of Israel: complaining, idolatry, and child sacrifice. They forgot their God and worshipped foreign idols, even sacrificing their children to demons. As a result, God gave them over to destruction. Are we doing the same today? Are we more loyal to politics than to Jesus? More consumed with pleasure than with purity? More committed to tradition than truth? --- **A Call to Come Out and Be Separate** God is calling His people to come out from among the world. “Be holy, for I am holy,” He says (1 Peter 1:16). Like Noah, we must be just—right in our actions—and pure in our generations, uncorrupted by the spiritual and genetic manipulation of this age. Don’t play with things like astrology, witchcraft, or ancestral practices that invoke spirits. These are not harmless. They open doors to destruction. --- **The End Is at the Door** Ezekiel 7:2-4 declares: “An end! The end has come upon the four corners of the land... I will judge you according to your ways.” That word is for us today. The judgment of God is at the door, and the question is not how much you go to church—but whether you are just and pure in genealogy. Are you truly born again? Are you living by faith? Are you walking with God? --- **A Closing Prayer** Father God, We come before You with humility and repentance. Cleanse us from all corruption—spiritual, physical, and emotional. Make us like Noah—just, pure, and faithful. Remove from us every trace of compromise and sin. Help us to flee sexual immorality and to honor You with our bodies. We surrender to the new birth, to be grafted into the genealogy of Christ. Make us ready for the coming of the Son of Man. In Jesus’ name, Amen. --- If this message spoke to you, don’t keep it to yourself. Share it, pray over it, and come back next time for more from Heaven on Earth Ministries of Jesus Christ. You are listening to Wave 94 — from the Coast to the Capital — and this is Servant Marcia reminding you: Be just. Be pure. Be ready. Originally aired Nov. 13, 2024.
We live in a time of uncertainty and chaos. We are living in the 21st century, but the human condition often feels like a cycle that keeps returning to ancient patterns. Division, perversion, violence, and confusion are rampant—echoing a time long past but prophetically relevant: the days of Noah. The Holy Spirit has stirred me to revisit that era, not simply as a historical moment, but as a prophetic mirror for the time we now inhabit. Let us open our hearts and minds to what the Spirit is saying. The Fall Begins with a Choice The story begins with Adam and Eve, whose disobedience introduced sin into the human story. But sin did not stop with them. Just as Eve made a choice, others—beings not entirely human—also chose rebellion. These were the Watchers, angels who, according to ancient Jewish and Christian writings, descended to earth in the time of Noah and took human wives. This union between divine beings and mortal women produced the Nephilim, giants whose existence filled the earth with corruption and violence. These hybrid beings were not part of God's plan. Their presence was one of the key reasons for the great flood—a divine cleansing to reset a world gone horribly astray. Forbidden Knowledge and the Seeds of Chaos The Watchers didn’t merely cross boundaries physically—they also introduced forbidden knowledge. They taught humanity secrets not meant for our kind: sorcery, enchantments, cutting of roots, and sensual pleasures divorced from God’s purpose of procreation and unity. This corrupted knowledge led to increased vanity, envy, violence, and rebellion—spiritual pollutants still with us today. The Apostle James wrote that "where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there" (James 3:16). We are indeed still dealing with the fallout. When the hybrid offspring of the Watchers died, their spirits became the unclean spirits—demons—still active in our world. They operate in the shadows of our sleep, in paralysis and terror, in deception and spiritual oppression. Judgment for Rebellion Genesis 6 tells us that as humanity multiplied, the "sons of God" saw the daughters of men and took them as wives. This was not a holy union. The Spirit of God declared, “My Spirit shall not strive with man forever, for he is indeed flesh” (Genesis 6:3). This speaks to the divine boundaries between flesh and spirit—boundaries not to be crossed without God’s permission. The flood was not only a punishment—it was divine grief. “The Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart” (Genesis 6:6). But Noah found grace, and through him, hope was preserved. Jude’s Warning to Our Generation The Book of Jude reinforces these themes. Jude warns us about ungodly men who twist God's grace into license for sin and deny the authority of Jesus Christ. He reminds us that even those saved from Egypt were later destroyed for unbelief. Likewise, the angels who "did not keep their proper domain" are now “reserved in everlasting chains under darkness” (Jude 1:6). Jude connects the fall of the angels to Sodom and Gomorrah, cities given over to sexual immorality and “strange flesh.” These weren’t just acts of lust—they were perversions of divine order. The result? Eternal fire and judgment. Today, we see similar rebellion in many forms—especially through media and religious leaders who cause division, speak arrogantly, or act without the Holy Spirit. Jude describes such people as “sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the Spirit” (Jude 1:19). Return to the Way of the Elect So what are we to do? Jude tells us: “Build yourselves up in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life” (Jude 1:20-21). We are called to be part of the elect—the chosen of God who will inherit the earth, live in peace, and never again fall into sin. That promise begins now with obedience, faith, and staying within God’s divine order. Enoch: A Prophetic Voice for Our Times To better understand the spiritual dynamics of Noah’s day, we turn to the Book of Enoch, a once-biblical text that expands on Genesis 6. Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied that the Lord would return with “ten thousands of His saints” to execute judgment against the ungodly. He warned that the Watchers defied their divine assignments. They abandoned heaven, descended to Mount Hermon, and corrupted humanity with forbidden knowledge. Their offspring—giants—consumed all the earth’s resources, then devoured humans, animals, and even each other. They drank blood and defiled the earth. At that point, the earth itself cried out to God for justice. This reminds us of Genesis 4, where God told Cain, “The voice of your brother’s blood cries out to Me from the ground” (Genesis 4:10). Creation bears witness to sin and injustice—it cannot be silenced. The God of Order vs. the Spirit of Chaos Enoch emphasizes that everything in heaven obeys divine order: the stars, the seasons, the oceans. They follow the rhythms God gave them. In contrast, the Watchers and rebellious humans represent chaos—disorder against the Creator’s design. God is not the author of confusion. He is a God of structure, beauty, and boundaries. When we step outside of His order, we step into spiritual danger. The angels who rebelled now exist in darkness, awaiting judgment. Their fate is sealed. But the righteous—the elect—will inherit the earth, experience joy and peace, and live forever in harmony with God’s will. The Choice Before Us You and I face a choice daily. Will we follow the path of obedience, guided by the Holy Spirit? Or will we repeat the rebellion of the Watchers and those who perished in the flood? Let us be among those who stay in the love of God, build our lives on His truth, and walk humbly in the way of righteousness. For the time of reckoning is near. The Lord is coming, and with Him, a Kingdom that will never be shaken.
The story of Noah is often summarized by the image of a man building an ark amidst scoffing neighbors, culminating in a worldwide flood. But the deeper biblical and extra-biblical traditions, especially those found in The Book of Enoch, reveal a more complex, sobering history that predates the flood by centuries—an era marked by rebellion, corruption, and divine intervention. A Thousand-Year Reign of Corruption Scripture tells us that the early patriarchs lived extraordinarily long lives: Adam, 930 years; Seth, 912; Enosh, 905; Methuselah, the longest, at 969. Noah himself lived 950 years—500 before the flood, 100 during the ark’s preparation, and 350 after the deluge. These long lifespans framed an extended era in which humanity was influenced—and nearly annihilated—by spiritual forces far beyond their understanding. According to The Book of Enoch and biblical references in Jude and 2 Peter, a group of angels made a catastrophic choice. Referred to as the “Watchers,” these celestial beings abandoned their heavenly estate and descended to Earth during the time of the patriarch Jared. Their purpose was not merely observation—they sought to take human wives and produce offspring. This rebellion against divine order ushered in what could be called a millennium of darkness. The Birth of Giants and the Corruption of Creation These angels took human women and taught them forbidden knowledge—charms, enchantments, herbalism, and astrology. From these unions were born the Nephilim, giants of enormous stature and power. The Book of Enoch describes them as being 3,000 ells tall. These giants began to dominate the Earth, consuming its resources, enslaving mankind, and even resorting to cannibalism when their hunger could no longer be satisfied. Their violence extended beyond humanity. The giants and fallen angels corrupted birds, beasts, reptiles, and fish, perverting the natural order of creation. Warfare, vanity, metal weaponry, and occult knowledge flourished. The Earth, once a place of divine order and peace, descended into chaos and bloodshed. The Tree of Knowledge Expanded The fall of Adam and Eve began with the Tree of Knowledge. While the original sin was disobedience, the result was mankind's exposure to knowledge it was never meant to handle apart from God’s righteousness. The fallen angels, in their rebellion, brought even more of this corrupting knowledge. Without righteousness to guide it, knowledge became a weapon—leading to destruction, not enlightenment. As Jesus later warned in Matthew 24, His return would come at a time when the Earth resembled “the days of Noah.” Understanding what those days truly entailed gives weight to that prophetic warning. A Cry for Justice The Book of Enoch describes how the righteous angels—Michael, Uriel, Raphael, and Gabriel—looked down from heaven and were grieved by the bloodshed and lawlessness. They heard the cries of the souls of the dead reaching heaven’s gates, pleading for justice. They approached the Most High with a plea: to bring judgment upon the rebellious angels and their offspring. What followed was a series of divine responses that laid the groundwork for the Great Flood. God’s Response: Judgment and Preservation The Lord instructed Uriel to warn Noah of the coming deluge and to prepare a way of escape. This was not merely a judgment—it was a divine act of preservation, a rescue mission to save humanity from total extinction. Raphael was told to bind Azazel, one of the chief fallen angels, and cast him into the wilderness—buried under jagged rocks, shrouded in darkness, reserved for fiery judgment. Gabriel was sent to stir the giants into conflict, causing them to destroy one another. Michael was tasked with binding the 200 fallen angels once their offspring had perished, imprisoning them beneath the Earth for seventy generations until the Day of Judgment. Significantly, the Lord declared that the hybrid offspring—born of heaven and Earth—would not have eternal life. Instead, their lifespan would be capped at 500 years. This was a direct refutation of the angels’ hopes that their children would inherit immortality. A Battle for the Seed This spiritual war was ultimately about lineage. In Genesis 3, God declares enmity between the seed of the woman and the seed of the serpent. The angels’ rebellion and their attempt to corrupt the human bloodline was a strategy to prevent the prophesied Redeemer from being born. But God preserved Noah and his family, ensuring the continuation of the untainted seed that would eventually lead to Jesus Christ—the one true deliverer. Hope in a High Priest What sets our era apart from those days is the intercession of Jesus Christ. Hebrews tells us He is now our High Priest, our Advocate. In contrast to the cries of blood in Noah’s day—desperate, unanswered pleas for justice—we now have a mediator who brings our case before the throne of God with mercy and grace. Conclusion: Lessons from a Forgotten Era The era before the flood was one of intense spiritual warfare, supernatural corruption, and desperate cries for divine justice. Yet, even in that darkness, God made a way for righteousness to endure. Understanding the full context of “the days of Noah” urges us to stay alert, remain faithful, and give thanks for the redemptive work of Jesus. We are no longer left to cry out helplessly. We have a Savior who hears us, stands for us, and has already won the battle.
As we look around, what do we see? Reports of UFOs or advanced drones, the prophetic rumblings around Damascus, widespread gender confusion, and a rising tide of mayhem and lawlessness. These are terms and realities that, even 25 or 50 years ago, seemed like distant, almost unimaginable concepts. The Book of Revelation, once perhaps viewed as a far-fetched allegory, now reads like current events. We, you and I, are living in days that mirror a significant period in biblical history: the days of Noah. Jesus Himself, when asked by His disciples about the signs of His return, stated, "As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man" (Matthew 24:37). For too long, we’ve perhaps pictured Noah's era as primitive. But was it? Genesis chapters 5 and 6 reveal lifespans stretching over 900 years – Adam's descendants like Jared lived 962 years, Methuselah 969 years. Enoch, who walked with God and was taken, lived 365 years. These patriarchs had hundreds of children. The Earth was widely populated and, I submit, technologically advanced in ways we are only beginning to rediscover. They were exposed to knowledge, perhaps even from "the watchers" – fallen angels who, according to ancient texts like the Book of Enoch, descended and shared forbidden knowledge, leading to a hybrid race and unprecedented societal corruption. This pursuit of knowledge, unsanctioned by God, echoes the original fall in Eden. The Depths of Wickedness and the Ark of Grace Genesis 6:5 paints a stark picture: "The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." This is a challenging reflection, for even as believers who strive, read the Word, and repent, we can find lingering wickedness within ourselves. Were it not for God's pre-ordained plan of reconciliation – Jesus Christ – we would be hopelessly lost. In those ancient days, the angelic interjection, though by a relatively small number of fallen beings (some texts suggest 200 Watchers), amplified humanity's evil. God declared, "I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth...for I am sorry that I have made them" (Genesis 6:7). Yet, amidst this pervasive corruption, "Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord" (Genesis 6:8). It's remarkable that John 1:17 tells us "grace and truth came through Jesus Christ." Noah, described as a "just man, perfect in his generations" (Genesis 6:9), possibly indicating an uncorrupted lineage, "walked with God." The corruption wasn't limited to mankind; "the earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence...all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth" (Genesis 6:11-12). This pervasive defilement, perhaps stemming from the influence of these fallen angels who illicitly shared heavenly secrets, prompted God's decisive judgment – the Flood. Texts like the Book of Enoch elaborate on this, describing angels like Raphael, Uriel, and Michael being dispatched to bind the offending angels and warn Noah. It suggests that the spirits of the hybrid offspring (Nephilim), once deceased, became the unclean spirits that roam the earth. Lessons for Our Generation This brings us to our present reality. Second Peter chapter 2 warns of false prophets and teachers bringing swift destruction upon themselves and their followers. It reminds us that if God "did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment; and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly; and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly" (2 Peter 2:4-6). God "delivered righteous Lot, who was oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked" (2 Peter 2:7). The angels escorting Lot declared, "We cannot do anything until you arrive there" (Genesis 19:22). Yet, a heartbreaking lesson follows: Lot’s wife. She was being delivered, but she looked back. In an instant, her salvation was jeopardized. How often are we guilty of looking back, our hearts still tethered to the world God is calling us out of? This underscores the urgent need for quick, sincere repentance and a firm belief in the sufficiency of God’s grace. The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and reserve the unjust for punishment (2 Peter 2:9). We are living in a cyclical reality. Jude 1:14-15 reminds us of Enoch, the seventh from Adam, who prophesied, "Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His saints, to execute judgment on all, to convict all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him." Ungodliness can manifest as murmuring, complaining, and walking after our own lusts. Our Defensive Action: Living in Faith and Holiness So, how do we navigate these times? The Bible offers clear guidance. James 4:7 (implied by the speaker's call to submit) says, "Submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you." Jude 1:20-21 exhorts us: "But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life." This is our defense: Build your faith: Commit to reading God's Word daily to establish a firm foundation. Pray in the Holy Spirit: Maintain constant communion with God. Keep in God's love: Live a life that reflects His love and commandments. Look for His mercy: Trust in Jesus for eternal life. Abraham was delivered from Ur of the Chaldees, a land embroiled in the idolatry of the Tower of Babel. Lot was delivered from Sodom. God is able to keep us from falling and "to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy" (Jude 1:24). This is why we give Him glory, majesty, dominion, and power. Deliverance Lost, Deliverance Found Deliverance is not automatic simply because we are near the "ark." It is predicated on faith and a willingness to completely disconnect from the world system God is judging. Lot's wife demonstrates how easily deliverance can be lost if our hearts long for what is being left behind. Will you be delivered, even as we live in the days of Noah? Ponder this deeply. There is a glorious future prophesied, a time when "the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea" (Habakkuk 2:14), a world cleansed from all unrighteousness, oppression, and sin. The children of men shall become righteous, and all nations will worship Him. Until that day, let us remember that our deliverance is based on our faith. Let us not, like Lot's wife, be so connected to this world that we look back and forfeit our redemption. The Father is preparing for the return of Jesus. We must make ourselves ready. Choose today to fully embrace the deliverance God offers, to walk in holiness, and to fix your eyes on the Author and Finisher of our faith.
When we read the sixth chapter of Genesis, we may wonder how the world could ever become so wicked that God regretted making mankind. Yet today, we find ourselves echoing that ancient moment. Are we once again living in the days of Noah? Genesis 6 tells us that as men multiplied on the earth, the “sons of God”—interpreted by many as angelic beings—saw that the daughters of men were beautiful and took them as wives. This union produced giants—Nephilim—whose presence brought with them an escalation of wickedness. These offspring and their descendants (known as the Ilot and the Gimin) were unnatural, powerful, and increasingly corrupt. The earth became filled with violence, pride, and sin, and humanity was swept up in it. But what was the tipping point? Genesis 6:5 reveals it plainly: “Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” This was not casual sin or occasional rebellion—it was relentless depravity. God was grieved in His heart and determined to bring judgment through the flood. Wickedness Then—and Now Today, we’re witnessing alarming parallels. Psalm 52 describes those who boast in evil, who love lies more than truth, who wield words like weapons. Psalm 55 paints a society filled with violence, deceit, and destruction. In Psalm 53, we see a world where none seek God, none do good, and all are corrupt. It’s disturbingly familiar. And Jesus warned us about this. In Matthew 24:37, He said, “But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.” Just as people in Noah’s day were eating, drinking, marrying—living life without heed to God—so it will be again when He returns. We see the signs now: nation rising against nation, pestilence, earthquakes, persecution of believers, and a love that has grown cold. A chilling modern example? A woman in New York City, set ablaze as she slept in a subway. A police officer passed by as if her suffering was invisible. This is what happens when love disappears and lawlessness takes over. The Hidden History of the Giants The Book of Enoch, an ancient Jewish text referenced in early Christian writings, offers additional insight into this dark period. According to Enoch, the fallen angels, or Watchers, taught humanity forbidden knowledge: warfare, enchantments, astrology, and vanity. They introduced makeup, jewelry, and magic—fueling envy, pride, and strife. Humanity became obsessed with power and appearance. As a result, the Nephilim became cannibalistic, devouring not only animals but humans and even each other. God’s judgment was swift. The angels were bound, their hybrid offspring destroyed. Angels such as Uriel, Raphael, Gabriel, and Michael were each assigned to carry out divine justice. It was a global cleansing, a divine reset. And it came not only because of the giants—but because humanity had chosen to love wickedness rather than righteousness. So What Do We Do Now? The answer is as simple as it is urgent: Repent. We cannot undo history, but we can turn our hearts. Scripture says that God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but desires that all should come to repentance. We are called to cry out to the Lord morning, noon, and night (Psalm 55:17). We are invited to enter through the narrow gate, to walk the narrow path that leads to life. Romans 10:9–10 gives us the roadmap: “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Salvation is not complicated—but it is costly. It will cost you your pride, your sin, and your allegiance to the world. But what you receive in return is eternal life, peace with God, and a new identity as a child of the Most High. Being born again is not just a metaphor—it is a spiritual transformation. Through water baptism and the infilling of the Holy Spirit, we receive a new nature, a new DNA, washed by the blood of Jesus. The Spirit convicts us, empowers us, and draws us into deeper intimacy with God. Jesus Is Coming Again There is a twofold return of Christ: first, to receive His faithful ones, and later, in judgment upon the unrepentant (Revelation 19). We must be ready. Noah found grace because he was obedient, and he walked with God. We, too, are called to walk in righteousness, not just in name but in action. The world around us is shouting that time is short. We cannot put our trust in governments, institutions, or ideologies. Drones, spaceships, unidentified phenomena—these things shake our confidence in the systems of man. But we have a Kingdom that cannot be shaken. Jesus did not come to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved (John 3:17). There is still time. There is still hope. But the door of the ark will not remain open forever. Let us heed the warning of Noah’s generation. Let us turn from wickedness. Let us cry out to Jesus—our only refuge, our only Savior. The days are evil, but the light of Christ still shines. And for those who endure to the end, salvation awaits. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
The Great Flood is one of the most dramatic and terrifying events in all of Scripture. It stands as a stark reminder of God’s absolute judgment against sin. But what could have provoked such a complete and catastrophic response? The Bible gives a clear and chilling answer: a pervasive, all-consuming spirit of lawlessness. This same spirit, prophesied by Jesus Himself, is rising again in our time, and understanding its nature is crucial for every believer. Jesus warned in Matthew 24 that His return would be "as in the days of Noah." This wasn't a casual comparison; it was a direct parallel between the spiritual condition of the world before the flood and the one that would precede His second coming. To understand our future, we must first look to that ancient past. The Original Corruption Genesis chapter 6 paints a grim picture of the world before the flood. Following the illicit union of the "sons of God" with the "daughters of men," a profound corruption took hold. This union didn't just lead to giants and "mighty men of old"; it unleashed a deeper knowledge of sin—witchcraft, envy, and violence—that saturated humanity. The diagnosis from God was absolute: "The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually" (Genesis 6:5). This was not mere imperfection; it was a complete deviation from God's design. The text states, "The earth was filled with violence... All Flesh had corrupted their way on the earth" (Genesis 6:11-12). This state of total moral and spiritual decay, this rebellion against divine order, is the very definition of lawlessness. It was this condition that grieved the heart of God and triggered the cleansing judgment of the flood. The Unchanging Mind of God To grasp what lawlessness looks like from God’s perspective, we can look to the prophet Ezekiel. In chapter 18, God provides a clear contrast between a "just" man—like Noah—and a lawless one. He defines the lawless person as one who engages in idolatry ("eaten on the mountains"), commits adultery, oppresses the poor and needy, robs through violence, breaks his word, and profits from usury. God’s verdict is unwavering: "Shall he then live? He shall not live! ...He shall surely die" (Ezekiel 18:13). Conversely, the just man is one who "does what is lawful and right." He is faithful to God and his neighbor, gives to the hungry, clothes the naked, and executes true judgment. Of this man, God says, "He is just; He shall surely live!" (Ezekiel 18:9). This chapter gives us a timeless insight into the heart of God, showing that His standard of righteousness and His hatred of lawlessness are unchanging. The Spirit of Lawlessness Today Fundamentally, lawlessness is operating outside the boundaries that God has ordained. It is a spirit that rejects God's divine order. As the book of Hebrews declares, God loves righteousness and hates lawlessness (Hebrews 1:9). This spirit is not merely about breaking civil statutes; it is an anti-Christ spirit that opposes God's very character and authority. Tragically, we are reaping the fruits of lawlessness in our own society. When generations are raised without respect for divine or earthly authority, the result is chaos. This is not a political issue but a spiritual one. It is the "mystery of lawlessness" that the Apostle Paul warned about, a hidden power that was "already at work" even in his day (2 Thessalonians 2:7). Paul explains that this spirit is currently being restrained. What is this restraining force? It is the Holy Spirit, dwelling on the earth inside His people—the Church. As saints of God, we are a crucial part of the force holding the full tide of lawlessness at bay. However, the Bible warns that a time will come when this restraint is "taken out of the way." It is then that the "man of lawlessness," the Antichrist, will be revealed, deceiving those who "did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved" (2 Thessalonians 2:10). The Enduring Choice The consequences of unchecked lawlessness are severe and certain. The ancient world was destroyed by a flood. The apostate angels who abandoned their posts are, as described in texts like the Book of Enoch, held in darkness awaiting a final, boundless judgment. The future world that rejects the truth will face the Great Tribulation under the reign of the Antichrist. The parallel is complete. The same spirit that caused the flood is rising again, and it will culminate in a final judgment. Just as in Noah's time, God is looking for a people who will choose to be "just" and walk with Him. We are called to be the Noahs of our generation—people who reject the world's chaos and align ourselves with God's divine order and righteousness. The choice is ours: to be swept away by the rising tide of lawlessness, or to find refuge in the unchanging truth of Jesus Christ and stand firm as the world around us is judged.
The words of Jesus echo through the centuries, carrying a particular resonance in our modern era. We look at a world rife with turmoil, moral confusion, and a departure from foundational truths, and we must ask ourselves the sobering question: Have we returned to the days of Noah? The Bible describes that ancient time as one of profound wickedness, where every intention of the human heart was continuously evil. It was a world ripe for judgment. Jesus Himself declared that the spiritual climate of Noah’s day would be the final signpost for His return. This parallel is not meant to inspire fear, but to provoke urgent self-examination. It is a divine invitation to awaken from spiritual slumber and prepare our hearts. The Apostle Paul’s letters to the Corinthian church provide a timeless blueprint for this preparation. The Uncompromising Call to Purity In his first letter to Corinth, Paul confronts a church that had grown comfortable with the culture around it. “It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you,” he writes, “and of a kind that does not occur even among pagans” (1 Corinthians 5:1). He goes on to list a host of behaviors that are incompatible with the Kingdom of God: idolatry, greed, drunkenness, slander, and extortion. His instruction is stark and clear: believers are not to keep company with or even share a meal with a brother or sister who willfully persists in such a lifestyle. This isn't a call for self-righteous judgment, but for a radical commitment to holiness. Paul’s warning in 1 Corinthians 6:9 is unequivocal: “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived.” The message for us today is just as potent. We cannot live a lukewarm faith, with one foot in the world and one in the Kingdom. We are called to be set apart. Finding Grace Like Noah In the midst of pervasive corruption, Genesis 6:8 offers a beacon of hope: “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.” What set Noah apart? The very next verse tells us: “Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations. Noah walked with God.” This is our model. To find grace in these perilous times, we must be just in our dealings, pure in our devotion, and walk in an intimate, moment-by-moment relationship with God. The concept of being "perfect in his generations" can be understood today in a spiritual sense. Through Christ, our spiritual genealogy is purified. We are no longer defined by our old, sinful nature. As Paul reminds us, “such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians 6:11). The blood of Jesus cleanses us and the Holy Spirit, who conceived Jesus in Mary, now dwells in us, making our spiritual lineage one with Christ Himself. You are the Temple The battle for holiness is deeply personal. Paul asks, “Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? …Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own” (1 Corinthians 6:15, 19). Every sin has consequences, but sexual immorality is unique in that it is a sin against our own body—the very temple where God’s Spirit is meant to dwell. To join ourselves to immorality, whether physical or through spiritual dalliances with spirits of rage, lust, or gossip, is to defile that holy place. The key is not merely to possess the Holy Spirit but to activate Him. He must be the ruling, guiding, and sanctifying force in our lives on a "minute-by-minute basis." From Slaves to Heirs Ultimately, this call to holiness is not a burden but an invitation into our true identity. As we read in Galatians 4, God sent His Son “to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” Because we are His children, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts. Therefore, you are no longer a slave to sin, but a son or daughter. And if you are a son, you are an heir of God through Christ. We live in serious times, but we are not without hope. Just as God delivered Noah and his family, He desires that none should perish. Let us heed the call, confess our sins, and ask for God’s mercy. Let us come out from the world’s ways, live lives that are pure and just, and walk humbly with our God. The ark of His grace is open, and by embracing our identity as sanctified heirs, we can be found safe within it, ready for the day of His glorious return.
In a world groaning for liberty, we are confronted daily with headlines that seem to promise the opposite. We see conflict, division, and a pervasive sense of hopelessness. We long for freedom—freedom to live, to breathe, and to be at peace. While political and social solutions come and go, there is a greater, eternal freedom available to us that transcends any earthly circumstance. It is the freedom from sin and reconciliation with God the Father. This ultimate freedom was promised to us by Jesus Christ Himself, and He gave us specific signs to watch for, so we would not lose heart but be ready. The World's Birth Pains In the 24th chapter of Matthew, Jesus’s disciples asked Him about the signs of His coming and of the end of the world. His answer is a roadmap that feels strikingly relevant to our lives today. He answered them, “Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many” (Matthew 24:4-5). From the rise of false prophets on social media to widespread deception on a global scale, His first warning is one we must diligently heed. Jesus continued, describing a world in turmoil: Conflict: “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom” (v. 6-7). We live in a constant stream of news about global conflict, a clear reflection of this prophecy. Catastrophe: “And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places” (v. 7). These events, which we see with increasing frequency and intensity, are not the end itself, but as Jesus says, “All these are the beginning of sorrows” (v. 8). Persecution: “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake” (v. 9). We are seeing a dramatic increase in the persecution of Christians worldwide. This is not a surprise but a fulfillment of His Word. Betrayal and Lawlessness: Jesus warns of a time when betrayal will be common, iniquity will abound, and “the love of many will grow cold” (v. 12). From family breakdowns to senseless violence, we see evidence of hearts growing cold all around us. But in the face of this darkness, Jesus gives us our mission and our hope: “But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come” (v. 13-14). The Unchanging Gospel in a Changing World What is this gospel that must be preached? It is the good news that we cannot save ourselves. The gospel is the story of Jesus Christ—the Word made flesh who lived a perfect, sinless life. He was offered up as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins, and it is through His shed blood that we are washed clean. He conquered death, rose again, and now sits at the right hand of the Father. His very name, Yeshua, means “Salvation.” Our freedom is not earned; it is a gift received through faith. We must have faith that God is good, that Jesus has done it all, and that through Him, we are made a new creation. How, Then, Shall We Live? As the world grows darker and more seductive in its sin, how do we protect ourselves? Jesus warns that the time will be like “the days of Noah” (v. 37), a time of pervasive perversity and corruption. Yet Noah, a just and perfect man, found grace in the eyes of the Lord. Our response must be intentional. We are called to prepare ourselves to be found ready for Christ’s return. This preparation is rooted in the timeless instruction from 2 Chronicles 7:14: “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” Our faith must not rest in human leaders or earthly promises, but in the unwavering promises of God. This is our moment to take these steps. We must humble ourselves in prayer, seek His face through His Word, and actively turn from sin. We must cultivate an ear to hear the Holy Spirit, who guides us away from deception and into truth. Let us fix our eyes not on our failures or faults, but on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. Let us pray that God will look upon us and see not a flawed person, but a child made perfect and righteous through the DNA of Christ. In a world desperate for freedom, let us anchor ourselves in the only One who can truly provide it. Be blessed and be ready.
In a world rapidly advancing in technology and simultaneously drifting from its moral anchors, many Christians are asking the same question: Where are we on God's prophetic timeline? The answer may lie not in looking forward, but in looking back—to the days of Noah. The words of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew serve as a timeless guide: "As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man" (Matthew 24:37). By examining the state of the world before the flood, we can find startling parallels to our own time and, more importantly, rediscover our unshakable hope in Christ. The World That Was To understand the days of Noah, we must first go back to the beginning. In Genesis, God created a perfect world. He made humankind in His own image—spiritual beings created for fellowship with Him, given dominion over the Earth (Genesis 1:26-27). This perfect communion, however, was broken. Through the serpent's subtlety and a single act of disobedience, Adam and Eve fell, introducing sin and a curse upon creation. The relationship between God and humanity was fractured, and two kingdoms—one of light and one of darkness—were set in opposition. By the time we reach Genesis chapter 6, the consequences of this fall had reached a horrifying climax. The scripture says, "The LORD saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time" (Genesis 6:5). This wasn't mere human imperfection; it was a pervasive, systemic corruption. The earth was "filled with violence." This era was marked by a unique and catastrophic rebellion. The "sons of God," interpreted as fallen angels, abandoned their posts, took human wives, and produced a hybrid offspring—the Nephilim (Genesis 6:4). This act was not just one of lust but a profound perversion of God's created order, an attempt to corrupt the human bloodline. This corruption was so complete that God found only one righteous man, Noah, and resolved to cleanse the world with a flood. A Reflection in the Mirror When we hold up the mirror of Scripture to our own society, the reflection is unsettling. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, describes a society that, having refused to "retain God in their knowledge," was given over to "a reprobate mind." He lists the symptoms: "being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful" (Romans 1:29-31). Does this not sound like a headline from today's news? Furthermore, the ancient prophet Daniel foresaw a series of world kingdoms, culminating in a fourth and final kingdom that would be unique. He described it as a mixture of iron and clay, noting, "they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another" (Daniel 2:43). For centuries, this prophecy has been a subject of interpretation, but today, we are witnessing a potential fulfillment that was once unimaginable. Consider the rise of transhumanism—a movement that seeks to "improve" humanity by merging it with technology. We see its tendrils in: Artificial Intelligence (AI): Machines are now performing tasks that once required human consciousness. Genetic Engineering: Scientists can alter human DNA, the very blueprint of life. Transgenic Cloning: The process of creating hybrid beings by mixing the genes of different species, eerily reminiscent of the forbidden mingling of the past. Brain-Computer Interfaces and Mind Uploading: Ambitious concepts are moving from science fiction to reality, proposing to transfer human consciousness to a machine. This mixture of iron (technology) and miry clay (humanity, formed from dust) is happening before our eyes. It is driven by the same prideful spirit that motivated the builders of Babel and Lucifer himself: the desire to ascend, to become like God, and to transcend the human condition through our own power. Our Unfailing Hope While this analysis is sobering, it is not a message of despair. It is a call to look up, for our redemption draws near! The same prophets who warned of these days also spoke of the solution. Isaiah foretold a coming King: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6). This King is Jesus Christ. He is not a created being, but the Creator Himself. As the Apostle Paul writes, "For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible... all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist" (Colossians 1:16-17). It is through Jesus, and Him alone, that we are reconciled to God. Though we were once alienated by our wicked works, He made peace through the blood of His cross. He is our hope, our refuge, and our coming King. In the days of these very kingdoms of iron and clay, Daniel prophesied that "the God of heaven [shall] set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed... it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever" (Daniel 2:44). So what is our role in these momentous times? It is to wait patiently and with faith. We are called to store His word in our hearts and to hold fast to our inheritance, which is "incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:4). Do not lose heart. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the name above all names, and call upon Him, for in Him is deliverance, salvation, and life eternal. Amen.
When the disciples admired the grand temple in Jerusalem, Jesus responded with a startling prophecy: a day was coming when not one stone would be left upon another. Their immediate question—"When will these things be? And what sign will there be?"—is one that has echoed through the hearts of believers for centuries. His answer, recorded in Luke 21, provides a framework for understanding the times, and it draws a powerful parallel to a chaotic period in ancient history: the days of Noah. Looking at our world today, one cannot help but wonder if we are witnessing the fulfillment of these very prophecies. Jesus said, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven" (Luke 21:10-11). We see these headlines daily. Yet, before any of this, His very first warning was, “Take heed that you not be deceived.” Deception, wars, global unrest, and natural disasters are not just random occurrences; they are signposts. But to truly grasp their significance, we must understand the comparison to Noah’s generation. A World Consumed by Chaos What exactly was life like in the days of Noah? It was far more than a primitive society; it was a civilization spiraling out of control. Genesis 6 tells us that when humanity multiplied, the "sons of God"—which ancient texts like the Book of Enoch identify as fallen angels—abandoned their heavenly domain. They took human wives, creating a hybrid race of giants known as the Nephilim. The result was a world saturated with corruption. These giants consumed humanity's resources and eventually turned on mankind itself, devouring people and sinning against every living creature. The earth, scripture says, was filled with violence. It was a time of extreme lawlessness, sexual perversion, and spiritual rebellion, a period where the genetic integrity of God’s creation was deliberately corrupted. This transhumanism—the blending of the human with the non-human—was an affront to the Creator. The earth itself cried out under the weight of such lawlessness, and God’s heart was grieved. He had to bring a flood to cleanse the world and preserve a remnant through Noah, whose name means "rest." The Modern Parallel and The Mandate to Be Ready Today, we see echoes of this chaos. Lawlessness is on the rise, and violence fills our screens. The pursuit of transhumanism is no longer science fiction but a stated goal in some scientific circles. Deception is rampant, with false christs and ideologies leading many astray—even some who sit in our churches. Jesus warned that believers would be betrayed, persecuted, and hated for His name's sake. What was once confined to foreign lands is now appearing in our own nations. These signs indicate we are in the "beginning of sorrows." They are a call to awaken from spiritual slumber. Are we true followers of Christ, or are we merely groupies, attending conferences but failing to obey His commands? Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for being able to discern the weather but not the signs of the times. We must not make the same mistake. The Glorious Hope of His Return While the signs are a sobering warning, they are also a beacon of hope. Jesus concluded His discourse by saying, "Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near" (Luke 21:28). The chaos of this world is not our final reality. The Apostle Paul reveals the magnificent conclusion in 1 Corinthians 15:51-52: “Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed—in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” As in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. The first Adam was a living soul made from dust; the last Adam, Jesus Christ, is a life-giving spirit from heaven. He is coming to transform us. This corruptible, mortal body will put on incorruption and immortality. Death itself will be swallowed up in the victory He has already won. This is the promise that turns our watchfulness into joyful expectation. Let us ask God for revelation and understanding. Let us commit to living in righteousness, with our hearts and minds fixed on Him. We may not know the day or the hour, but we can live in a state of constant readiness, so that when the trumpet sounds, we will be prepared to meet our Lord.
The question posed by Jesus' disciples echoes through the ages: "When will all this happen?" When will we see the signs, the indicators, that we are truly at the end of an age – the culmination of God's grace extended to humanity? As we survey our world today, the question resonates with startling clarity. Where is morality? Where is love, peace, joy, forgiveness, brotherhood? The once-cherished "American dream" of stability and progress seems to have given way to widespread chaos. Jesus Himself provided a direct answer, pointing to a specific era: "As it was in the days of Noah..." (Matthew 24:37). To understand our present, we must look back to Genesis chapter 6, where the seeds of that ancient wickedness are revealed. It describes a time when humanity multiplied, and the "sons of God" (interpreted by many as angelic beings) took daughters of men as wives, leading to the birth of "mighty men who were of old, men of renown." But the core reason for God's profound grief and decision to destroy mankind wasn't just this unusual intermingling. Genesis 6:5 states, "Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." This was the true motivation for God's radical decision to bring a flood upon the earth, destroying both man and beast. When Jesus refers to "the days of Noah," He is specifically highlighting this pervasive, unrelenting level of wickedness. The Works of the Flesh vs. The Fruit of the Spirit What, then, did the Creator see that grieved Him so deeply? The Apostle Paul provides crucial insight in Galatians chapter 5. He reminds us to love our neighbors as ourselves – a stark contrast to the self-serving, often murderous, atmosphere of Noah's time. Paul exhorts us: if we "walk in the Spirit, you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh." The "works of the flesh" are clearly enumerated: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like. Paul sternly warns that "those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." Conversely, the "fruit of the Spirit" paints a picture of divine character: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. These are not multiple fruits, but nine compartments of one fruit – love being the overarching theme. Our choice is clear: if we yield to the flesh, we produce its destructive works. But those who belong to Christ crucify their flesh and live in the Spirit. This walk means continually aligning our will with God's will, understanding that His will for us is our sanctification. We are called to abstain from sexual immorality, to possess our bodies in holiness and honor, and to avoid taking advantage of one another. To reject these divine directives is not to reject a preacher, but to reject God who has given us His Holy Spirit. The Coming of the Lord: Signs and Sanctification As believers, we must not be ignorant concerning those who "fall asleep" in Christ. We believe that Jesus died and rose again, and therefore, "God will bring with Jesus those who sleep in Jesus." This is the glorious promise of the Rapture. The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, and the dead in Christ will rise first, followed by those of us who are alive and remain, to be caught up together in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. This is a point of return Jesus Himself referred to. Concerning the "times and seasons," Paul instructs us not to be ignorant. "For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night." When the world cries "Peace and safety!" then sudden destruction will come. But we, as "sons of Light and sons of the day," should discern the season we are in. We are called to watch and be sober, wearing the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet of salvation's hope. God has not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. This requires diligent living: rejoicing always, praying without ceasing, giving thanks in everything, not quenching the Spirit, testing all things, and abstaining from every form of evil. Why? So that "the God of peace Himself can sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." You cannot be raptured if only a portion of you is sanctified. The Danger of Falling Away and Strong Delusion Today, many worship government, relying on man to save them, thus committing idolatry by turning away from Jesus, God, and the Holy Spirit. Are we guilty of this? The Bible also warns of a "falling away" (apostasy) that must come first, followed by the revelation of the "man of sin," the "son of perdition." It appears we are rapidly approaching this "falling away," as many believers question their faith, their pastors, and even the existence of God. Huge ministries are being attacked from within, often by the very "lusts of mankind"—the works of the flesh—that we are called to overcome. We cannot blame everything on the enemy; often, we are our own enemy, allowing actions that cause the Christian faith to be attacked. This "Lawless One" will oppose and exalt himself above all that is called God, even sitting in the temple of God, showing himself to be God. There is a strong perception, supported by observable preparations in Israel, that a Third Temple will be built in Jerusalem where this man of sin will sit. The mystery of lawlessness is already at work, but the Holy Spirit restrains it. However, when the Holy Spirit is "taken out of the way" (through the Rapture), the Lawless One will be fully revealed. His coming will be marked by powerful signs, lying wonders, and unrighteous deception for those who perish "because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved." For this reason, God will send them "strong delusion, that they should believe the lie." Stand Fast in the Truth In closing, beloved, remember that God, from the beginning, chose you for salvation. This salvation comes "through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth," to which He called you by the gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, our call is to stand fast! Hold on to the Word of God. Our Lord Jesus Christ and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope, will comfort our hearts and establish in us every good word and every good work. He is faithful; He will establish you and guard you from the evil one. As we pray, "Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven," let us strive to escape living and walking in the flesh, so that the Holy Spirit may prevail in our complete body, soul, and spirit. If you have not yet given yourself to Jesus, now is the time. Confess with your mouth and believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, raised from the dead by the power of God, and you will be saved. Release your whole self to Him, that He may make you a new creature and enable you to receive His promise. Get ready, get ready, because the Rapture is coming. Stand firm as the elect, the chosen of God!
The world around us is changing at an alarming rate. News cycles spin so fast that before we can grasp one unfolding event, three more are already upon us. We live in a time of radical shifts, pervasive sin, and widespread lawlessness. Yet, amidst this chaos, there is an end, and a good end at that. This reality brings us to a crucial question, echoing the disciples' plea to Jesus: "When will the end of the age occur? When will this terror and anxiety cease, and when will we finally be in perpetual harmony with our Creator?" The Echoes of Ezekiel: A Call to a Rebellious People To understand our current predicament, we can look to the Prophet Ezekiel. In a profound heavenly encounter, Ezekiel saw a being of amber and fire, radiating the glory of the Lord. From this awe-inspiring vision, he heard the voice of the Creator commanding him, "Son of Man, stand on your feet and I will speak to you." The Holy Spirit entered him, setting him on his feet, and the Lord declared, "Son of man, I am sending you to the children of Israel, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me; they and their fathers have transgressed against me to this very day." This ancient message resonates with startling clarity today. Just as Israel was a rebellious house, many who claim to be believers in Jesus — Christians — exhibit a similar stubbornness and hard-heartedness. Yet, God's directive to Ezekiel remains our call: "Do not be afraid of them nor be afraid of their words, though briers and thorns are with you and you dwell among scorpions." For those of us who carry the Holy Spirit, having repented, confessed, and accepted Jesus as Savior, we are empowered to speak God's words to this rebellious world, whether they hear or refuse. We are called not to be rebellious like them, but to open our mouths and consume what God gives us—the very words of life. Ezekiel's experience with the scroll is particularly poignant. He was given a scroll written on both sides with "Lamentations, mourning, and woe." He was commanded to eat it and then speak to the house of Israel. This mirrors the Great Commission given by Jesus: "Go throughout the entire world and make disciples." Ironically, God told Ezekiel that if He had sent him to paganistic people, they would have listened, but the house of Israel, the very believers, would not, due to their rebellion. This is a stark warning for us today: are we, the house of God, so hardened that we refuse to hear the very words of truth meant for our salvation and guidance? The Days of Noah: Signs of the End The parallels to the "days of Noah" are undeniable. The level of wickedness, coupled with the rapid advancement of technology, travel, and artificial intelligence, all point to a lifestyle eerily similar to the pre-flood era. Jesus Himself, in Matthew 24, outlined the signs of the end of the age. He warned, "Take heed that no one deceive you; for many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many." We are witnessing this now, with countless individuals claiming special access or authority, often leading others astray. He continued, "You will hear of wars and rumors of wars... Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows." From global conflicts to family strife, from pestilence to natural disasters, these are not the end, but merely the initial throes of a greater birthing. Following these, believers will be delivered up to tribulation, hated by all nations for Jesus' sake. Lawlessness will abound, and the love of many will grow cold. Yet, Jesus promised, "He who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come." This is our assignment: to function as Ezekiel did, to go and tell everyone, in every circumstance of our daily lives, the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. The Breaking of the Seals: Revelation Unveiled The prophetic thread continues powerfully into the book of Revelation. In Revelation chapter 5, John sees a scroll sealed with seven seals, and an angel asks, "Who is worthy to open the scroll and to loose its seals?" No one in heaven or on earth was found worthy, until one of the elders proclaimed, "Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals." This, of course, is Jesus, who, having declared "It is finished" on the cross, proved Himself worthy. It's astonishing to realize the direct correlation between the events Jesus foretold in Matthew 24 and the breaking of these seals. As the Lamb, Jesus Himself begins to open them: The First Seal: The White Horse - A rider with a bow and crown goes out "conquering and to conquer." Jesus warned, "Let no one deceive you." This aligns perfectly with the rise of false Christs and deceivers claiming divine authority, a rampant issue in our world today. The Second Seal: The Fiery Red Horse - Given the power "to take peace from the earth, and that people should kill one another." Jesus spoke of "wars and rumors of wars, nation against nation, kingdom against kingdom." The pervasive violence seen globally, reminiscent of the pre-flood world where God observed that "violence was in every thought, every intent of mankind," is a clear manifestation of this seal being broken. Considering these two seals, we can objectively say that we are living through their breaking. We are seeing deception and violence on an unprecedented scale. While the subsequent seals (famine, death, persecution of saints, and cosmic disturbances) may not yet be globally experienced in their fullness, parts of the world are certainly witnessing glimpses of their destructive power. The Power of Prayer: A Golden Bowl in Heaven Before the seals are even fully discussed, a profound truth is revealed in Revelation 5:8: the twenty-four elders fall down before the Lamb, "each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints." This is a critical revelation for us today. You, the saint of God, are vital to what is happening and what is about to happen in this world. Your prayers go straight up to heaven, collected and maintained in a golden bowl. Have you noticed how the enemy seems to fight you most intensely when it's time for you to pray? He knows the secret: your prayers are a powerful force. Could it be that your prayers are what allows God to extend mercy and grace to the world, even in these rebellious times? Our prayers are part of the balance, influencing the very circumstances of this age and the coming Kingdom. A Call to Stand: Inclined Towards God The question remains: who is able to stand in these last days? On our own, we are not able. There may come a time when humanity's rebellion becomes so complete, so perverse, that God, like in the days of Noah, will have no choice but to withdraw His hand. When God looks at us and can no longer see even a speck of Himself, we become unrecognizable—a complete perversion of His original creation. Yet, there is still hope. Like the psalmist in Psalm 79, we can cry out for restoration, acknowledging our sinfulness but appealing to God's mercy. "How long, Lord? Will You be angry forever?" We confess that He is our King, working salvation in the midst of the earth. Today, let us pray for mercy. Let us ask God to extend time for reconciliation through His Son, Jesus. Let us pray for leaders and for the entire world. Even knowing that the seals have been broken and we are living in the prophetic times Jesus foretold, we still have hope. We believe in the Creator of Heaven and Earth, who loves the image He created. Father, stir in us the spirit of obedience. Continue to conform and transform us into the image of Your Son, Jesus, so that when You look down upon the earth, You will see those who look like You, moving Your heart to mercy. Destroy all curses placed upon Your children, and lift generational curses from those who proclaim You as their King, Lord, and Savior. Just as God found Noah, inclined towards Him in a wicked generation, we ask for that same grace. Bless us, God, that our ears, eyes, spirit, heart, soul, and body remain continually inclined towards You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen. God loves you more than words can express. Be blessed, and may we continue to stand firm as the seals are broken.
In a world filled with uncertainty, political turmoil, and personal struggles, it can be challenging to lift our eyes to the heavens and consider the timeless truths of Scripture. Yet, Jesus Himself urged us to be watchful, reminding us that His return would be "as it were in the days of Noah." This comparison immediately brings to mind the theme of judgment, a concept intricately linked to what the prophets call "The Day of the Lord." This is not a topic to be taken lightly. The prophet Isaiah provides a sobering depiction of this day, declaring, "Behold, the LORD makes the earth empty and makes it waste, distorts its surface and scatters abroad its inhabitants" (Isaiah 24:1). He describes a time of universal upheaval where the land will be "entirely emptied and utterly plundered," affecting every person from the priest to the servant, the buyer to the seller. Why such a drastic event? Isaiah explains it is because humanity has "transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant" (Isaiah 24:5). This Day of the Lord is a recurring theme throughout the prophetic books. The prophet Joel describes it as "a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness" (Joel 2:2), a time of destruction from the Almighty. Amos issues a stern warning: "Woe to you who long for the day of the LORD! Why would you long for the day of the LORD? That day will be darkness, not light" (Amos 5:18). The Apostle Peter echoes this, stating the day will come "like a thief," and "the heavens will disappear with a roar, the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare" (2 Peter 3:10). It is a day of reckoning for the ungodly, a final and awesome judgment. In the face of such a terrible prospect, what are we to do? The answer is not to despair, but to turn to the source of our salvation. The same prophets who warned of judgment also proclaimed a message of hope. Joel, after describing the coming terror, relays God's heartfelt plea: "'Now, therefore,' says the LORD, 'Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.' So rend your heart, and not your garments; return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness" (Joel 2:12-13). This call to repentance is our lifeline. The Day of the Lord is not only a time of judgment; it is also a time of hope and restoration for those who believe, reconcile, and are obedient to the will of God. Just as God delivered Noah from the flood, His character is one of deliverance for His people. We are not appointed to suffer wrath. Our ultimate hope is found in the person of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of John, Jesus declares, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst" (John 6:35). He is the true bread from heaven, the fulfillment of a New Covenant that offers eternal life. This is the will of the Father: "that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day" (John 6:40). How do we prepare for what is to come? We must repent and live free from sin, immerse ourselves in the Word of God, share the Gospel, love one another, and fix our minds on spiritual things. By partaking in the New Covenant through communion, we declare our faith in the flesh and blood of Jesus, which was given for us. It is the Holy Spirit who gives life, and it is our relationship with Jesus that secures our deliverance. Let us, therefore, not be caught unaware. Let us stand firm in the Lord, rooted in His grace and mercy. The Day of the Lord will be a dreadful day for those who oppose God, but for the faithful remnant, it will be the day our Lord's glory is revealed, and we are gathered to Him forever. Now is the time to run to Jesus, our shield and our salvation.
In a world reeling from unprecedented global crises, social unrest, and a palpable sense of moral decay, a profound question echoes in the hearts of many: Are we, in fact, living in "the days of Noah," a time of widespread wickedness preceding divine reckoning? As a servant of Heaven on Earth Ministries of Jesus Christ, I believe it's time for a collective awakening, a moment to discern the spiritual currents around us and, most importantly, to respond with wisdom and humility. Our God is, unequivocally, a God of mercy, always extending His grace, always desiring to save us. Yet, as Psalms 53 reminds us, "The fool has said in his heart, 'There is no God.'" Once this foundational truth is abandoned, corruption and abominable iniquity follow. God looks down from heaven, seeking any who understand, any who seek Him. Sadly, the lament is that "everyone of them has turned aside; they have together become corrupt; there is none who does good, no, not one." This isn't just an ancient observation; it's a stark mirror reflecting our contemporary society. The prophet Jeremiah, in the fourth chapter, echoes this sentiment with a powerful call: "Circumcise yourselves to the Lord, and take away the foreskins of your hearts." This isn't a physical act, but a profound spiritual one – a call to humility, to repent, to return to God. Jeremiah warns that when divine wrath and judgment begin, even kings, princes, priests, and prophets will be astonished. Our entire societal structure, including those in leadership, will be confronted by the consuming fire of God's anger. Jeremiah further implores Israel to "wash your heart from wickedness, that you may be saved. How long will your evil thoughts lodge within you?" This message resonates deeply with us today. Our ways and doings have procured our present circumstances. Wickedness, when it permeates the heart, produces bitterness, causing a deep, internal pain. Jeremiah describes a soul in anguish, a heart making a noise, unable to hold peace because the trumpet of alarm, the cry of war and destruction, fills the land. Why? Because, as God declares, "My people are foolish; they do not know Me. They are silly children; they have no understanding. They are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge." The imagery of Genesis 1:2, where the earth became "without form and void" and darkness covered the deep, offers a profound parallel. While God created perfectly, the subsequent void and darkness, in my personal interpretation, reflect a previous act of divine judgment. As Ecclesiastes reminds us, there is nothing new under the sun. God's execution of wrath is not unprecedented; it's a consistent consequence of humanity's departure from His light. Just as God purposed the darkness, He also declared, "Let there be light," bringing forth restoration. Light and darkness cannot coexist; we must choose which kingdom we will inhabit. Today, many ponder whether America, and indeed the world, is under judgment. God has always warned before He executes. He warned Noah, Abraham, Lot, Joseph, Moses, and Jonah. He is a God who forewarns. Consider the words of Isaiah 10: "Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees, to deprive the poor of their rights and withhold justice from the oppressed of My people, making widows their prey and robbing the fatherless." When laws fail to rectify inequity, when the vulnerable are neglected, when governments are steeped in iniquity and deception, judgment is inevitable. The spirit of religion, too, will be judged. So, is there any help for us amidst these troubling signs? Absolutely. Ezekiel 9 speaks of God's judgment upon those committing detestable practices, but also within that judgment, a path for those who sigh and cry over the abominations. The answer lies in repentance. Repentance means a change of mind, a turning away from wickedness. As Ezekiel 14 states, "Repent, turn away from your idols... turn your face away from all your detestable things." Luke 13 warns, "Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish." Church attendance, while valuable for learning God's principles, is not enough. We must truly change. 2 Chronicles 7:14 offers a timeless promise: "If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." This is our blueprint for redemption. We must confess and renounce our sins, asking God for a new heart, as promised in Ezekiel 11. God desires to remove the heart of stone and give us a heart of flesh, enabling us to follow His statutes and ordinances. This transformation comes through prayer, fasting, and living a life submitted to the Lord. Jeremiah 13 warns against pride, urging us to "give glory to the Lord your God before He causes darkness." Darkness is not random; it's a planned consequence of rejecting the light. If we choose to seek light outside of God's will, we will stumble in the shadow of death. The theologian Ralph Droolinger identifies five forms of God's judgment: eternal wrath (hell), eschatological wrath (the day of the Lord), cataclysmic wrath (floods, fires, natural disasters), forsaken wrath (God removing restraint, as described in Romans), and consequential wrath (reaping what we sow). The "forsaken wrath" is particularly chilling – when God gives us over to our own desires. Hosea 4 describes Ephraim's refusal to listen, leading God to say, "My people will not listen... I gave them over to the stubbornness of their heart, to walk in their own devices." This is a terrifying place to be, where God no longer even attempts to stop our descent. When a land, a person, or an entity exchanges the glory of the incorruptible God for the worship of created things, when bodies are dishonored through impurity, when natural functions are abandoned for unnatural ones (Romans 1 speaks of homosexuality and lesbianism in this context), these are signs of a nation "given over" to a depraved mind. We witness the horrific consequences daily: unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, envy, murder, malice, gossip, slander, hatred of God, insolence, arrogance, boastfulness, disobedience to parents, untrustworthiness, unloving, unmerciful. This is where God's restraint has lifted. Will America be completely judged as a nation? While we are certainly experiencing judgment, I believe that because millions of faithful followers of Christ pray and seek His face, God's grace and mercy will prevail. His character, exemplified through His dealings with Abraham and Moses, assures us of His unwavering love. In the midst of navigating a world increasingly resembling the days of Noah – with advancements in AI, robotics, genetic mixing, and spiritual depravity – we cling to God's master plan, centered on the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, to wash away our filthiness. We trust in His power to do the impossible, for what is impossible with man is possible with God. This is our foundation. We lean on His truth, knowing that His grace and mercy will prevail, and His love is greater than our sin. The way of salvation is greater than the path of darkness. Therefore, we pray: Lord, have mercy upon Your people. Let there be light in the darkness of our own existence. May the seeds of the woman prevail. Amen. May the Lord bless you and keep you until we meet again.
As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, it's increasingly evident that the times we live in bear a striking resemblance to a pivotal period in biblical history: the days of Noah. The Scriptures, particularly 2 Timothy 3, paint a vivid picture of these "perilous times," characterized by rampant self-love, materialism, boastfulness, pride, blasphemy, disobedience to parents, unthankfulness, unholiness, and a pervasive lack of love and self-control. This mirrors the societal decay we witness daily, with increasing violence, deceit, and a disregard for divine principles. Indeed, even in the days of Noah, humanity had descended into a profound state of depravity. The Bible tells us that every thought and imagination of the human heart was continually evil. Sexual perversion, widespread murder, and unashamed wickedness dominated the landscape. This wasn't merely ordinary sin; it was a heightened level of contamination, influenced by fallen angels who had taught secrets and perverted imaginations. In such a dark epoch, one might question: Can we survive? Can we truly make it through? Yet, amidst this overwhelming darkness, one man stood out: Noah. God chose him, a single individual in a world consumed by wickedness, because he loved God. Even with indications that not all of his sons shared his devotion, Noah's righteousness was undeniable. This echoes a crucial warning from Jesus in Matthew 24, where He foretold that His second coming would be "as it was in the days of Noah," directly comparing the escalating evil of the past to that of the future. The proliferation of child trafficking, cloning, and scientific advancements used for unholy purposes are all signs of this intensifying departure from God's will. But even as the world plunges deeper into wickedness, a radical and transformative work is unfolding simultaneously, a work consistent with God's nature and His prophetic promises. We find a powerful illustration of this in Ezekiel 36. God, through the prophet Ezekiel, confronted Israel's defilement of His name among the nations. They had profaned His holiness through their actions, even while being identified as His people. Yet, God declared that He would act not for their sake, but for the sake of His holy name. The promise given to Israel in Ezekiel 36 is profoundly relevant to believers today. God declared: "I will sanctify My great name, which has been profaned among the nations, which you have profaned in their midst; and the nations shall know that I am the Lord…when I am hallowed in you before their eyes." This speaks to a divine intervention, where God’s people, once cleansed, will become vessels through which His holiness is demonstrated to the world. The prophecy continues with a remarkable promise of restoration: "Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean; I will cleanse you from all your filthiness and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them." This isn't merely a historical account; it's a living promise for today. While we are indeed living in times that mirror Noah's, God is concurrently performing a revolutionary act within His believers. He is releasing more of His Holy Spirit, empowering us to become tangible manifestations of Yahweh – of His holiness, nature, and character. Just as God promised to multiply the fruit of the land for Israel, so too will He empower believers to be fruitful even in these challenging times. We will remember our past iniquities and loathe them, not because we are earning God's favor, but because of His cleansing power. It is not for our sake, but for His holy name's sake that He does this, bringing shame and conviction for our past ways. This divine outpouring also connects with the powerful prophecy in Joel 2. In "those days," amidst turmoil, negativity, violence, despair, and plagues, God promises to pour out His Spirit "on all flesh." This means our sons and daughters will prophesy, our old men will dream dreams, and our young men will see visions. God will display wonders in the heavens and on the earth. Therefore, even as wickedness, sinfulness, violence, confusion, and perversion escalate in our world, let us remember that God is simultaneously manifesting His new covenant. He is actively at work, pouring out His Spirit, transforming hearts of stone into hearts of flesh, and enabling believers to walk in His statutes. This is not a time for despair, but for hope and faith. God's love for us is immeasurable. He gave His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. If you confess with your mouth and believe in your heart that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was raised from the dead by God's power, you are ready to escape the condemnation of this age. You are ready to be like Noah in the days of Noah—blessed and fruitful, even amidst the storm. Scriptures for Further Study 2 Timothy 3: The characteristics of perilous times in the last days. Matthew 24: Jesus's prophecy of the End Times mirroring the days of Noah. Ezekiel 36: God's promise of cleansing, a new heart and spirit, and the outpouring of His Spirit upon Israel, leading to their restoration and the sanctification of His name. Joel 2: The prophecy of God pouring out His Spirit on all flesh, leading to prophecy, dreams, and visions in the last days. John 3:16: God's great love for humanity and the promise of everlasting life through faith in Jesus Christ.
We are living in extraordinary times, a period that Scripture profoundly describes as "perilous." It’s a season demanding not panic, but a deep understanding of our spiritual assignment. As believers in Jesus Christ, we are called to be alert, aware of the unfolding prophecies, and resolute in our purpose. Recognizing the Signs of the Times Jesus, in His discourse on the Mount of Olives (Matthew 24), laid out clear indicators of the end of the age. His disciples, eager to understand His return, were warned: "Take heed that no one deceives you." He spoke of false christs, wars, rumors of wars, nation rising against nation, famines, pestilence, and earthquakes. These, He said, are just the "beginning of sorrows." He prophesied tribulation, persecution, betrayal, and a chilling increase in lawlessness that would cause the love of many to grow cold. Yet, amidst this daunting outlook, He declared a hopeful truth: "He who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come." The Apostle Paul further illuminates these "perilous times" in 2 Timothy 3. He describes a society consumed by self-love, greed, boasting, pride, blasphemy, disobedience to parents, ungratefulness, unholiness, a lack of love, unforgiveness, slander, lack of self-control, brutality, hatred of good, treachery, recklessness, conceit, and a love of pleasure more than a love for God. These individuals, Paul warns, will have "a form of godliness but denying its power." Looking at our world today, it's undeniable that these characteristics are rampant. Our Enduring Assignment: Preach the Word So, what is the believer's response to such a landscape? Paul’s instruction is unequivocal: "Continue in the things which you have learned... All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:14-17). The charge given to us in 2 Timothy 4:2-5 is paramount: "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." We are warned that a time is coming when people will no longer tolerate sound doctrine, turning instead to fables and itching ears. Yet, our task remains: "Be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry." The Power and Authority of the Believer But how can we, in our perceived inadequacy, fulfill such a grand commission? We must remember the words of Jesus Himself in Mark 16:15-18, just before His ascension: "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." We often forget the profound power and authority Christ has already bestowed upon us. This is not a task for a select few, but a divine mandate for all who believe. Just as Isaiah, in his vision of God’s holiness (Isaiah 6), recognized his own uncleanness and was purged, we too must seek sanctification and purification. And when the Lord asks, "Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?" our response should echo Isaiah’s: "Here I am! Send me." Sowing the Holy Seed There will be times when our efforts seem to fall on deaf ears. We may preach to those who appear hardened, whose hearts are dull, eyes shut, and ears heavy. Yet, the prophet Isaiah reminds us that even when it seems no one is listening, our work has profound value. There is a "holy seed"—a remnant—that will hear. Even if it’s just a tenth, that seed will grasp the truth. Romans 10:14-17 eloquently explains this process: "How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: 'How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!'" The truth is, you are the preacher. The word of faith you utter, even when it appears to have no impact, is watering that holy seed, keeping it alive, and preparing it to rise up when the Lord calls. Remember Luke 10, where Jesus sent out seventy disciples two by two. He sent them "as lambs among wolves," not with money or worldly riches, but with a singular focus: "Heal the sick who are there, and say to them, 'The kingdom of God has come near to you.'" This authority to trample on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy (Luke 10:19) is a direct fulfillment of the prophecy in Genesis 3:15, where God declared that the "seed of the woman" would bruise the serpent's head. This power is ours through Christ. God, Our Unchanging Rock In these perilous times, when darkness, death, and ungodliness may incite fear, we must anchor ourselves in the unwavering truth of God’s character. As Psalm 18 declares: "I will love You, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation; my stronghold." It is God who arms us with strength, makes our way perfect, makes our feet like the feet of deer, and sets us on high places. He teaches our hands to make war and gives us the shield of His salvation. Our help, our wisdom, our strength comes not from governments, mankind, or our own intellect, but solely from the Lord. In the "days of Noah," when the world rushes towards its inevitable judgment, our response is not to panic, but to remember our function and responsibility. Jesus has given us the great commission. Let us embrace it wholeheartedly. Let us preach the word, water the holy seed, and know that God is with us, He will never leave us nor forsake us. Our assignment in these perilous times is clear: Go, preach, and fulfill your ministry, for the Lord lives, and the God of our salvation is exalted! Scriptures for Further Study Matthew 24 Mark 16:15-18 Luke 10:1-20 Romans 10:14-17 2 Timothy 3:1-17 2 Timothy 4:1-5 Isaiah 6:1-13 Genesis 3:14-15 Psalm 18:1-3, 31-36, 46
In an age saturated with digital noise, sensational headlines, and an ever-present hum of societal unrest, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But what if the chaos we perceive is not entirely new? What if ancient warnings hold profound relevance for our modern lives? Servant Marcia Carty, in her compelling message "Righteousness in the Days of Noah," invites us to consider just that, drawing a striking parallel between the world before the great flood and the world we inhabit today. A World Corrupted Carty begins by painting a vivid picture of Noah's time, a period of profound spiritual and moral decay. This wasn't just human wickedness; it was a cosmic rebellion. Angels, abandoning their heavenly roles, descended to earth, took wives, and produced monstrous offspring known as the Nephilim – giants, demigods, and warrior kings. These "watchers," or fallen angels, didn't stop at corrupting human DNA; they even corrupted animals. More startling still, they shared forbidden knowledge, what we now call technology. It's a challenging thought, that the very conveniences we rely on – electricity, radio, the internet – could have originated from such a dark source. Yet, Carty suggests that the increasing sophistication of AI, robotics, transhumanism, and other cutting-edge advancements point to a progression towards the kind of technological and biological mixing that characterized Noah's era. The rampant evil of that time was so pervasive that God Himself "regretted that He had even made mankind." Noah: A Beacon of Grace Amidst this overwhelming depravity, one man stood out: Noah. "Noah found grace in the eyesight of God," Carty reminds us. This was not because Noah was perfect, but because in a world utterly consumed by ungodliness, he chose a different path. He was a "preacher of righteousness," a voice crying in the wilderness, largely ignored by a society too engrossed in its own pleasures and pursuits. Jesus Himself, in Matthew 24, likened His second coming to the days of Noah: people would be "eating, drinking, and marrying," oblivious to the impending judgment until it was too late. The Call to Righteousness Today The pressing question for us, then, is this: how do we navigate a world that is rapidly regressing towards the conditions of Noah's day? Carty offers a powerful answer: we choose righteousness. She illustrates this with the example of King Asa from 1 Kings 15. Asa, reigning in a period of spiritual decline after the golden ages of David and Solomon, "did what was right in the eyes of the Lord." What did this look like in practice? Asa's righteousness was marked by decisive action: -- He banished perverted persons from the land. -- He removed all the idols that even his own father had made. -- He bravely removed his grandmother, Micah, from being queen mother because she had made an obscene image of Asherah. He then cut down and burned this idol. Asa's loyalty to the Lord was unwavering, even if he didn't completely remove all "high places." His actions demonstrate that righteousness involves actively removing idolatry from our lives and placing the Lord in His rightful position. If Noah could live righteously amidst such wickedness, then so can we. Enduring in Perilous Times The apostle Paul, in 2 Timothy, describes the "perilous times" that would come – characterized by self-love, boastfulness, disobedience, unholiness, and a love of pleasure over a love for God. Carty asserts that we are living in these times. The question becomes, how do we endure? Our endurance, she explains, comes "by purity, knowledge, longsuffering, kindness, Holy Spirit, sincere love, word of truth, the power of God, by what? The armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left hand." Ambassadors of Reconciliation For those who have accepted Jesus Christ, the path to righteousness is through Him. We are made "new creatures" in Christ; "old things have passed away." This transformation isn't just for our personal benefit; it's for a divine purpose. We are given the "ministry of reconciliation," becoming ambassadors for Christ. Just as God pleaded with Nineveh through Jonah, He is now "pleading through us to the world to repent and return to Him." This is our assignment in the "days of Noah." It requires patience, endurance through tribulation, distresses, and even hardships. But we are not alone. God, who "made Jesus who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God," is with us. "Behold, now is the accepted time; now is the day of salvation." A Prayer for These Days As we witness governments aligning with "dark forces," as technology blurs the lines of what's real, and as society races towards unprecedented levels of spiritual corruption, the parallels to Noah's day become undeniably stark. Yet, there is hope and a clear call to action. Servant Carty concludes with a fervent prayer, acknowledging God's mercy and commitment to reconcile us back to His original intent for mankind: to live as blessed beings, reigning on earth. She prays for believers to remain the "elect and in that group of the beloved," to walk as "ambassadors for the kingdom of light." The message is clear: in these tumultuous times, we must choose righteousness. We must draw closer to the Creator, allowing Him to transform us so that we can, like Noah, be beacons of light and truth, ready for His return. Don't give up. Have faith. God is able to keep us, even now.
In a world increasingly marked by turmoil, moral decay, and a pervasive sense of unease, many are asking: Can we truly be great again? Can America, or indeed any nation, reclaim a sense of normalcy and purpose? Servant Marcia Carty explores these urgent questions, drawing powerful parallels between our current global climate and the biblical "days of Noah." The Bible describes the pre-flood world as one where "every imagination, every thought [was] evil continually." It was a time of widespread corruption, angelic rebellion, and practices so depraved they threatened the very existence of humanity, even altering DNA. Sound familiar? Carty suggests that we are witnessing a similar spiritual decline today, prompting us to seek a path to restoration. Lessons from a King's Revival To understand how greatness can be restored, Carty turns to the Old Testament account of King Hezekiah of Judah, found in 2 Chronicles 29. Hezekiah inherited a kingdom steeped in spiritual compromise and idolatry. His radical approach offers a blueprint for revival: -- Sanctification and Cleansing: Hezekiah's first act was to open and repair the doors of the Lord's house, which had been shut, symbolizing a turning away from God. He then called the priests and Levites to "sanctify yourselves [and] sanctify the house of the Lord." This involved removing all the "rubbish" and debris that had accumulated. For us, this means examining our own lives, and our churches, for anything that defiles or distracts from true worship. Are there "dark lights" in our spiritual spaces when Jesus is the light of the world? -- Acknowledging Transgression: Hezekiah openly confessed the sins of his fathers, who had forsaken God and turned their backs on His dwelling place. True repentance begins with a humble acknowledgment of where we, individually and collectively, have gone astray. -- Restoring Right Worship: After cleansing, the priests and the assembly engaged in pure worship, singing psalms and hymns that brought praise to the Lord. Hezekiah emphasized the importance of a "willing heart" when bringing sacrifices and thank offerings, cautioning against manipulation or forced giving. -- Turning Away Wrath: Hezekiah sought to make a covenant with God "that His fierce wrath may turn away from us." The transcript highlights from Deuteronomy 28 that turning away from God leads to severe consequences: desolation, oppression, madness, and becoming a "byword among all nations." Hezekiah's actions led to God healing the people, even those not fully purified, because of their prepared hearts. The Ultimate Passover and a Better Covenant Carty weaves in the profound significance of the Passover—God's liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery. This event, marked by ten devastating plagues against Egypt, demonstrated God's power and His protection over His people. The crucial element was the blood of the Passover lamb applied to the doorframes, causing the angel of death to "pass over" the homes of the Israelites. This ancient act serves as a powerful foreshadowing of Jesus Christ. While Hezekiah's covenant brought temporary healing, it was ultimately imperfect because human beings could not maintain it. This brings us to the New Covenant established through Jesus. As Hebrews 7 and 8 explain, Jesus is our eternal High Priest, whose perfect sacrifice "once for all" cleansed us from sin. His priesthood is unchangeable, and He constantly lives "to make intercession for us." This new covenant means God's law is written on our minds and hearts, and He is merciful to our unrighteousness. A Call to Personal and Corporate Transformation The message culminates in a powerful call to personal transformation. If we have been "raised with Christ," we are to "seek those things which are above." This means: -- Setting our minds on things above, not on earthly desires. -- "Putting to death" earthly vices: fornication, uncleanness, evil desire, covetousness (which is idolatry). -- "Putting off" anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, and lying. -- "Putting on the new man," renewed in knowledge according to the image of God. This new man is clothed with "tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering," and above all, love—the "bond of perfection." Carty emphasizes that while America may seek to be great again, the process begins individually. True greatness and healing, for nations and for individuals, come through repentance, turning away from wickedness, and approaching the Lord with a willing and pure heart. Just as God heard Hezekiah and healed His people, He is able to heal us today. "Come to Jesus," she implores, "because salvation is only through Jesus." Scriptures for Further Study: -- 2 Chronicles 29 -- Deuteronomy 28:32-37 -- Exodus 12 -- John 3:16-17 -- Colossians 3:1-17 -- Hebrews 7:18-28 -- Hebrews 8:1-13 -- Hebrews 9:11-14
As Christians, we often find ourselves wrestling with the world we live in. Turn on the news, and we're faced with reports of great earthquakes, pestilence, and signs in the heavens—events that Jesus Himself prophesied would occur in the last days. In a world that seems to be falling apart, how do we, like Noah, remain "just" and find rest amid the chaos? The Bible tells us that in the days leading up to the flood, "the wickedness of man was very great... and every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually" (Genesis 6:5, ESV). The world was filled with giants—the offspring of fallen angels and human women—and a level of evil so profound that God "regretted that He had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart." (Genesis 6:6, ESV). Yet, in the midst of this darkness, one man stood out. "Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord," and he was "a righteous man, blameless in his generation" (Genesis 6:8-9, ESV). It's crucial to understand that Noah's righteousness wasn't because he was perfect in his actions. It wasn't about a checklist of good deeds or a life free of mistakes. His righteousness was a result of his faith. The book of Hebrews tells us, "By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith" (Hebrews 11:7, ESV). When God told Noah a flood was coming, Noah didn't question or doubt. He acted in faith. He believed God. And this is where the lesson for us lies. We are living in a time that, in many ways, mirrors the days of Noah. The signs of the end times are all around us, and as believers, we are anomalies in this world. We're not "normal" because we've chosen to follow the Lord's ways, and this sets us apart from the majority. The name "Noah" literally means "rest." This is no coincidence. In the midst of the world's chaos, Noah was able to enter into God's rest because of his faith. The same is true for us today. The key to our perseverance is not to be found in our own strength or works, but in the unwavering faith that justifies us in God's sight. Galatians 2:16 reminds us, "a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ." Our righteousness comes through faith—the conviction of what we do not see. It is by faith that we are redeemed from the curse of the law, and it is by faith that we receive the promise of the Spirit. So, when the world seems to be unraveling, when chaos and destruction are all you see, remember Noah. He found rest in God's promises and his faith allowed him to build something that saved his entire family. Today, Jesus is building His church, and we are a part of that. Our faith, like Noah's, is our foundation. It is the "substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." By faith, we can stand strong, persevere, and find rest, even in a world that looks more and more like the days of Noah. Scriptures for Further Study -- Genesis 6:1-8 -- Luke 21:24-28 -- Luke 24:44-49 -- Galatians 2:16-21 -- Galatians 3:6-14 -- Hebrews 4:1-11 -- Hebrews 11:1-8
The world today feels eerily similar to the days of Noah—a time when wickedness was rampant, and a faithful few seemed to be the only ones standing. For a believer, navigating this landscape can feel like an intense and impossible battle. Sin, violence, and perversion seem to be at every turn. How can we possibly live a holy life and stand in the midst of it all? The answer lies in understanding that this is not our fight to win alone; it is a battle of kingdoms, and the Lord Himself is the victor. We can find our strength by looking back at the story of Joshua, who was tasked with conquering the vast, impossible land of Canaan. In Genesis 1:26, we are reminded of our original purpose: God created us in His image and gave us dominion over the earth. This is our inheritance and our authority, but to walk in it, we must face the giants. For Joshua, they were literal giants; for us, they are the seemingly insurmountable obstacles and wickedness of our modern world. In Joshua 10:8, as Joshua prepared to face five kings and their armies, God spoke to him, saying, “Do not fear them, for I have delivered them into your hand.” Just as God promised Joshua victory, He makes that same promise to us today. The Lord, not man, is the one who fights for us. The story of the great hailstones that killed more of the enemy than the swords of the Israelites is a testament to this truth. Our weapons and resources are nothing compared to the power of God. When we trust in this power, our faith begins to grow. We see this in Joshua, whose faith became so bold that he commanded the sun and moon to stand still. And they obeyed. The Bible records in Joshua 10:14 that there was no day like it before or after, where “the Lord heeded the voice of a man; for the Lord Himself fought for Israel.” Our faith, anchored in God’s might, allows us to speak to the impossibilities in our lives, knowing that He will fight for us. Yet, as effective as Joshua’s victories were, they were temporary. The same territories he conquered are still being fought over today. This is why we have Jesus. While the Old Covenant demonstrated God’s power through men like Joshua, it was insufficient for an eternal victory. Jesus came to establish a new and living way, a covenant that would stand forever. John the Baptist prepared the way, calling people to repent, because “the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Jesus’s ministry was the manifestation of this kingdom. He walked among us, preaching the gospel of the kingdom and demonstrating its power by healing all kinds of sicknesses, casting out demons, and raising the dead. Jesus didn’t just win battles; He came to save the world. Hebrews 10:12 tells us that after offering one sacrifice for sins forever, Jesus “sat down at the right hand of God, waiting till His enemies are made His footstool.” He has already perfected us through His one-time sacrifice. Through Him, we have access to the holiest of holies. As we live in these last days, we are called to hold fast to our confession without wavering, knowing that He who promised is faithful. We must draw near to God with a true heart, stay close to other believers, and cling to the hope of Jesus’s return. The book of Revelation gives us a glimpse of the coming wrath of God on the unsaved, but it also shows us how we overcome: “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony” (Revelation 12:11). The battle is indeed the Lord’s. He has already won through Jesus Christ. The only question that remains is which kingdom we will stand with. Will we trust in the power of God, knowing that the blood of Jesus is our ultimate protection and victory? Let us cling to Him, and like Joshua, have the faith to speak to our mountains, knowing that our God will fight for us. Scriptures for Further Study -- Genesis 1:26-27 -- Joshua 10:8, 12-14, 25 -- Joshua 11:6-8 -- Matthew 3:1-2, 11 -- Matthew 4:17, 23-24 -- John 3:16 -- Hebrews 10:9-10, 12, 19-25 -- Revelation 16:1-21 -- Revelation 12:11
We are living in perilous times. A casual glance at the headlines or a deep read of 2 Timothy 3 confirms what our spirits sense: our society increasingly mirrors the "days of Noah." The Bible describes that era as one where “every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually” (Genesis 6:5). Today, we see a similar landscape where people are "lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers… unloving, unforgiving… without self-control, brutal, despisers of good" (2 Timothy 3:2-3). In the face of such overwhelming darkness, the righteous can feel discouraged, wondering how to possibly thrive. If the world is progressively getting more wicked, as Jesus Himself warned it would before His return, what hope do we have? The answer, however, is not found in a worldly solution but in a divine paradox: while humanity’s sin abounds, God’s grace and power are performing a simultaneous, counter-revolutionary work in the hearts of His people. A Promise for a Profaned Name The prophet Ezekiel was given a powerful word for a people in a similar state of spiritual ruin. The house of Israel had defiled their land and, more importantly, profaned God’s holy name among the nations where they were scattered. They were a poor reflection of the holy God they claimed to serve. Yet, God declared a plan of radical restoration. Crucially, this plan was not based on their merit. "I do not do this for your sake, O house of Israel," the Lord declared, "but for My holy name’s sake, which you have profaned" (Ezekiel 36:22). This is a truth that liberates us today. God’s work in us is not contingent on our perfection but is rooted in His unwavering commitment to glorify His own name through His people. He promises: "I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean… I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes" (Ezekiel 36:25-27). This is not a superficial change; it is a divine heart transplant, an internal rewiring powered by the Holy Spirit Himself. From Desolation to the Garden of Eden The result of this divine intervention is nothing short of miraculous. God promised to transform their physical reality as a reflection of their spiritual renewal. "The desolate land shall be tilled," He said, "so they will say, ‘This land that was desolate has become like the garden of Eden’" (Ezekiel 36:34-35). He promises to "multiply the fruit of your trees and the increase of your fields." This is the very essence of being blessed and fruitful in the days of Noah. While the world may appear as a desolate wasteland of sin, God promises to make the personal territory of our lives a fortified and inhabited garden. He is building, planting, and causing supernatural increase in us, right in the sight of a watching world, so that "the nations… shall know that I, the Lord, have rebuilt the ruined places" (Ezekiel 36:36). The Spirit's Outpouring in Our Day This ancient promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Covenant, through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit prophesied by Joel. "And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions" (Joel 2:28). This is the how. The new heart, the fruitfulness, the transformation from desolate to Eden—it is all powered by the active, present work of the Holy Spirit. While turmoil, violence, and despair mark the age, God’s Spirit is marking His people with power, prophecy, and divine insight. Therefore, our faith is not a passive waiting for the end. It is an active partnership with the God who is making all things new within us, right now. Like Noah, we are called to be righteous in our generation. We do this by confessing our faith in Jesus Christ and receiving the profound, life-altering work of His Spirit. He is ready to take your heart of stone and make your life a garden for His glory, a testament to His goodness in these last days.
The world today feels eerily resonant with ancient prophecies. Jesus, speaking to His disciples on the Mount of Olives, painted a vivid picture of the end of an age—a time that would mirror "the days of Noah." This wasn't merely a historical anecdote; it was a prophetic warning for future generations, including ours. The disciples, bewildered by His words about the temple's destruction and the coming end, asked, "When will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?" (Matthew 24:3). As a Bible teacher, I love to dive into the Scriptures, and Matthew 24 offers profound insights into our current reality. Jesus laid out a series of signs that would precede His return and the establishment of His kingdom. He cautioned, "Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many" (Matthew 24:4-5). We are witnessing this now, with various figures claiming divine authority. The Lord continued, describing an increase in global turmoil: "You will hear of wars and rumors of wars... Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows" (Matthew 24:6-8). Are we not in this stage? The geopolitical landscape is fraught with conflict, natural disasters are rampant, and global health crises are ever-present. Beyond these broad strokes, Jesus detailed the persecution of believers: "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake" (Matthew 24:9). We see this unfolding, from historical crusades to modern-day atrocities, like the ongoing targeting of Christians in Nigeria. Furthermore, He warned of internal strife within the church, with many being offended, betraying one another, and false prophets emerging, causing "the love of many to grow cold" (Matthew 24:10-12). Yet, amidst these challenging predictions, Jesus offers a powerful promise and a crucial task: "But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come" (Matthew 24:13-14). This is a critical point! The "gospel of the kingdom"—the simple, profound truth that "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son" (John 3:16) to restore mankind to His original design as ambassadors on Earth—is now more achievable than ever to preach globally. Through radio, television, and the internet, the message of salvation is reaching every corner of the earth. The Abomination of Desolation and Great Tribulation Jesus also spoke of a specific sign: "Therefore when you see the 'abomination of desolation,' spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place" (Matthew 24:15). This points to the rebuilding of a Third Temple in Jerusalem, a development many believe is already in motion with detailed plans and preparations. Once this "abomination" occurs, Jesus warned, "then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be" (Matthew 24:21). This intense period, however, will be cut short "for the elect's sake" (Matthew 24:22). Becoming the Elect This brings us to a vital question: How do we become "the elect"? Romans 10 gives us the answer: "If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9). It's more than just a one-time prayer; it's a commitment to live a life "accordingly unto Jesus." When we accept Jesus, our spirit is instantly born again. However, our flesh, soul, and mind are like newborn babies, needing to grow in righteousness and holiness. It's a continuous process, a spiritual "gym" where we train ourselves in God's ways. Grace isn't a license to sin; it's the power to overcome sin as we learn and grow. Lessons from Ancient Israel To understand our journey, we can look to the Israelites in Psalms 106. They were God's chosen people, yet their history is a cycle of deliverance, rebellion, and restoration. They provoked God at the Red Sea, yet He saved them. They believed Him and sang His praises, only to forget Him shortly after. They lusted in the wilderness, asking for things that led to the "leanness of their soul"—a spiritual decline that turned their hearts away from God. They even worshipped a golden calf, changing their "glory into the similitude of an ox" (Psalm 106:20). Sound familiar? How often does God deliver us from certain destruction, illness, or despair, only for us to quickly forget His goodness and return to worshipping created things—our houses, businesses, bank accounts—instead of the Creator? The Israelites mingled with heathens, learned their ways, and even sacrificed to demons. They became so far removed from God's original intent for them that they essentially became like the Gentiles. God's Relentless Pursuit I can relate to the Israelites' journey. Though raised in holiness and teaching the Word from a young age, I, too, turned away from the Lord. Yet, our God is incredibly merciful. He didn't wait for me to hunt Him down; He pursued me into the "shadow of darkness and death," just as described in Psalm 107. "Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever... Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy" (Psalm 107:1-2). In my desperation—a failed marriage, sorrow, despair, confusion, and sin—I cried out to the Lord. And He delivered me! He led me "forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation"—a church, a ministry, a place where the Word of God is taught. He satisfied my longing soul and filled my hungry soul with goodness, breaking the "gates of brass" that bound me in affliction and iron. He sent His Word and healed me, delivering me from destruction. Enduring in the Days of Noah We are undoubtedly living in the "days of Noah" again. The signs are clear. But just as God saved Noah and his family, and just as He continually delivered His people Israel, He desires to deliver us. So, let us be the elect. Confess Jesus, believe in Him, and live a life transformed by His grace. Don't go back to the old ways. Stay a member of the elect. Father God, we give You all praise and glory. There is none like You. You love us so completely, a love we often struggle to receive. Lord, teach us to embrace Your love. Thank You for this opportunity to share Your Word. To everyone listening, I love you, but remember, God loves you infinitely more. Incline your heart toward Him, listen when He speaks, and follow Him. Your life will be filled with goodness, your soul restored, your spirit renewed, and your flesh will learn to express joy, peace, and love, even as we navigate these challenging "days of Noah." God bless you.
As the world grapples with escalating tensions and unsettling global events, many Christians are asking, "How do we live? What can we expect? Can we truly escape what is coming to this earth?" These are not merely rhetorical questions; they are deep longings for guidance in uncertain times. In a world that often feels chaotic, the answer lies not in human strategy, but in unwavering trust in the sovereign God who created all things. The Unseen Hand of God The Bible consistently reminds us that there is but one Creator God, distinct from all other gods fashioned by human hands. He is the one who declares, "there's none like him." Historically, God has always worked through individuals, even unlikely ones, to accomplish His divine will on earth. Consider the biblical figure of King Cyrus. In Isaiah 44 and 45, God declares Cyrus to be "my shepherd," who "shall perform all my pleasure," commanding him to rebuild Jerusalem and its temple. This was a king who did not know the Lord, yet God used him mightily for His purposes concerning Israel. Today, we can observe striking parallels between King Cyrus and figures like President Trump. Whether one agrees with his politics or not, I believe President Trump is "different," and his actions, particularly concerning Israel, align remarkably with a divine plan. Just as God promised Cyrus, "I will go before you; I will make the crooked places straight; I will break in pieces the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron," so too does it appear that God is orchestrating events through current leaders. This perspective suggests that the seemingly inexplicable actions and outcomes we witness today are not random, but part of God's overarching design, working for the sake of His servant Jacob and His elect, Israel. God's Unwavering Commitment to Israel A core tenet of this understanding is God's enduring commitment to Israel. Isaiah 44:21 powerfully states, "O Israel, you will not be forgotten by me. I have blotted out like a thick cloud your transgressions, like a cloud your sins. Return to me, for I have redeemed you." Israel is God's chosen servant, and His glory is revealed through them. Understanding Israel's profound importance to the Creator is crucial for comprehending current global dynamics. As nations acknowledge America's involvement and Israel's prominence, there is a growing recognition that "there is no other God." Living in the "Days of Noah" Jesus Himself prophesied that His return would be preceded by conditions mirroring the "days of Noah." This means a period characterized by widespread ungodliness, self-love, materialism, pride, blasphemy, unthankfulness, disobedience, and a rejection of divine authority. We see these characteristics increasingly manifest in our society. The question then becomes, "What shall we do?" The simple, yet profound, answer is to "let God be God, and you focus on being you." This means recognizing God's ultimate control, trusting His wisdom, and aligning our lives with His will. God did not create the earth in vain; He formed it to be inhabited and with purpose (Isaiah 45:18). He does not speak in secret or hide from those who seek Him. Navigating Deception and Remaining Steadfast The New Testament, particularly 2 Peter, warns of perilous times characterized by the rise of false prophets and teachers. These individuals, driven by covetousness, exploit people with deceptive words, preaching "various gospels of money and prosperity" instead of the true Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are described as "wells without water" and "clouds carried by a tempest," reserved for eternal darkness. The historical accounts of God's judgment serve as powerful warnings: He did not spare the angels who sinned, nor the ancient world that perished in the flood (saving only Noah and his family), nor Sodom and Gomorrah. Yet, He always knows how to deliver the godly out of temptation, as He did with righteous Lot. This demonstrates God's consistent character: He judges unrighteousness but delivers the faithful. In the face of widespread deception and lawlessness, it is imperative to "be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets" (2 Peter 3:2). Scoffers will come, questioning God's promises and claiming that "all things continue as they were from the beginning." However, they willingly forget that by God's word, the world that then existed perished by water, and the present heavens and earth are "reserved for fire on the day of judgment." Hope in the Promise of a New Heaven and Earth While the prospect of coming judgment can be sobering, it is also a call to live "holy and godly lives" (2 Peter 3:11). God is not slack concerning His promise but desires that "none should perish." The day of the Lord will come unexpectedly, with the heavens passing away, elements melting with fervent heat, and the earth being burned up. But for those who trust in Him, this destruction is not the end. According to God's promise, "we are looking for a new heaven and a new earth in which righteousness dwells" (2 Peter 3:13). This is our ultimate hope. A Call to Trust and Perseverance In light of these truths, our response should be simple yet profound: Adhere to the word of God. Let God be God. He knows what He is doing; He has proven it throughout history and in His prophetic word. Our responsibility is to live a life of purpose, faith, long-suffering, love, and perseverance. We must continue in the things learned from the Holy Scriptures, which are "able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus" (2 Timothy 3:15). Even as "evil men and imposters will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived," we are called to remain faithful, to believe and live according to God's word. Jesus asked if He would find faith on the earth when He returns, and our answer, as believers, should be a resounding "Yes!" Let us pray that we continue preaching His word, being ready "in season and out of season," even when the world resists sound doctrine. For God is our only hope, the same God who created heaven and earth, and who continues to work through unlikely servants to fulfill His will. We place our lives, our hopes, and our dreams in His proven hands, knowing that He loves us more than we can comprehend.
We live in unsettling times. From strange phenomena in the skies to a pervasive sense of moral decay, many are asking: "What on earth is happening?" As Servant Marcia Carty suggests, perhaps we are witnessing a replay of history, a return to conditions reminiscent of the days of Noah. The Bible records a time when "the sons of God fell from heaven," wickedness covered the earth, and God declared His Spirit would not strive with mankind indefinitely. Noah preached for what was likely over a century, building an ark as a visible testament to his faith and God's warning. Yet, out of billions, only eight souls were saved. This should resonate deeply with us today. When we feel discouraged by the overwhelming tide of evil – the self-love, boastfulness, unthankfulness, and perversion that characterize our world – we might wonder, "What good is it to live a holy life?" A Pattern of Faithfulness The answer lies in God's unchanging character and His proven track record of faithfulness. King David, in Psalm 105, provides a crucial first step: sing praises to the Lord, speak of His wondrous works, and diligently seek His face and strength. We are to remember His marvelous deeds, especially how He kept His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and then with Israel. This is the same God we put our faith in today. Even when the Israelites were few, God protected them, declaring, "Touch not My anointed, and do My prophets no harm." He preserved their lineage through Joseph, not just to save them from famine, but to ensure that the covenant for all mankind, the promise of salvation through His Son, could be fulfilled. God's pattern is clear: He remembers His holy promises and is determined to deliver His people. Consider the Israelites' repeated sins, as detailed in Psalm 106 – even sacrificing their children to idols, shedding innocent blood, much like the modern sin of abortion. Yet, despite His righteous anger, God remembered them because of His covenant. If God can remain faithful to a people who so often rebelled, how much more will He honor His covenant with those who seek Him today? Enduring as Good Soldiers So, what are we to do in this seemingly fruitless landscape for holiness? We are not given a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. Our marching orders come from Scripture: First, hold fast to sound words heard in faith and love in Christ Jesus. As good soldiers of Christ, we must endure hardship and avoid entangling ourselves with the affairs of this life. Our purpose is to please the One who chose us to be His soldiers. Just as an athlete strives for mastery to win the crown, we are to pursue God, His Word, and His righteous way of life so we can receive the salvation given in Christ Jesus. If we have died to sin with Christ, we shall also live with Him. If we suffer with Him, we shall reign. He remains faithful, even when we waver, for He cannot deny Himself. Second, study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. This requires diligence in understanding God's Word. Simultaneously, we must shun profane and vain babblings that lead to ungodliness. If we claim to be believers, we must depart from iniquity and become vessels of honor. Third, preach the gospel. Peter declared that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2 marked the beginning of the "last days." He spoke of sons and daughters prophesying, young men seeing visions, and old men dreaming dreams. He also spoke of wonders in the heavens and signs on earth, culminating in the promise: "Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved." Just as God did not allow Jesus to remain a prisoner of death, but loosed Him and exalted Him, we are to have faith in the Father's promise. The commission given by Jesus in Mark 16 is clear: "Go into all the world and preach the gospel." The gospel is simple: Jesus, the Son of God, died for our sins. Believe in Him, be baptized, and you shall be saved. Signs will follow those who believe – casting out devils, speaking in new tongues, and healing the sick. Finally, we are called to dwell in love. First John chapter 3 tells us that we perceive the love of God because He laid down His life for us, and we, in turn, ought to lay down our lives for our brethren. True love is not just in word, but in deed and in truth. Our hearts will not condemn us if we keep His commandments and do what is pleasing in His sight. And what are His commandments? Believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another. This is the victory that overcomes the world: our faith! He who believes that Jesus is the Son of God overcomes the world. This is our confidence, that we may have boldness not only now but also in the day of judgment. In these days of Noah-like wickedness, let us walk as Noah did – representatives of God's Word, demonstrating His holy power. If you have not yet accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, do so today. Confess with your mouth and believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, raised from the dead by the power of God. The Word says you are saved. Trust that Word. 5. Scriptures for Further Study Genesis 6 Psalm 105 Psalm 106 2 Timothy 1 2 Timothy 2 Acts 2 Mark 16:15 1 John 3 1 John 5
The concept of God's kingdom reigning on Earth is not merely a theological ideal; it's the very heartbeat of our faith, woven into the fabric of the Lord's Prayer we so often recite: "Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." We, as believers, are called a "royal priesthood," set aside for God's glory. Yet, do we truly grasp the magnitude of what it means to be part of this kingdom? The story of King Saul, Israel's first king, offers a sobering lesson on the profound consequences of failing to understand—and live out—this truth. Saul's journey began with great promise. Anointed by God, he started his reign with zeal, following divine directives. But as is often the case, a subtle shift began to occur. Saul started to believe that his victories were due to his own might, his own wisdom. This gradual erosion of humility led to a dangerous path: partial obedience. Consider the pivotal moment in 1 Samuel 15. God commanded Saul, through the prophet Samuel, to utterly destroy the Amalekites—every man, woman, child, and all their livestock. It was a clear, unambiguous directive. Yet, Saul, under the guise of offering sacrifices to God, spared Agag, the king of the Amalekites, and kept the best of the sheep and oxen. He destroyed only what he deemed "foul and refused," keeping what he considered "good." When confronted by Samuel, Saul offered a litany of excuses. He claimed to have performed God's commandment. When the bleating of the sheep and lowing of the oxen betrayed him, he blamed "the people," stating they spared the animals to sacrifice to the Lord. This behavior echoed Adam's excuse in the Garden of Eden: "The woman you gave me, she did it." Saul's reasoning revealed a profound disconnect: he attempted to elevate his own mind and judgment above God's. Samuel's response to Saul's partial obedience and self-justification rings with eternal truth: "Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifice as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice and to hearken mean to listen than the fat of rams." The prophet continued with a stark warning: "For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry because you've rejected the word of the Lord he's also rejected you from being king." This moment marked the loss of Saul's kingdom, not immediately in practice, but in divine decree. Saul's downfall further highlights the insidious nature of fear. When he finally confessed, he admitted, "I feared the people and I obeyed their voice." His love for God was not "perfect love," which "casts out all fear." Instead, the fear of man, of public opinion, superseded his devotion to the Almighty. The ultimate tragedy of Saul's life is revealed in 1 Chronicles 10. Desperate and unable to hear from God, he turned to a witch for counsel—a direct violation of the very law he had once enforced. In that battle against the Philistines, Saul and his three sons died, a direct consequence of his transgression, his disobedience, and his inquiry of a familiar spirit. His kingdom was turned over to David, a man whose heart, despite his own egregious failures, was consistently inclined towards obedience to God. This ancient account serves as a potent reminder for us today. We are engaged in a spiritual battle, not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness. Our weapons are "not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds, casting down imaginations and every high thing that comes against the knowledge of God and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ." The release of these powerful weapons is predicated upon our obedience. We cannot afford to be partially obedient. God requires our whole heart. As Ephesians 5 clearly states, "we must walk in love as Christ also has loved us, gave himself for us." This love is intrinsically linked to obedience: "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous." Fornication, uncleanness, covetousness, foolish talking—these are not characteristics of those who will inherit the kingdom of Christ. Our call is to be "strong in the Lord and in the power of his might," putting on the "whole armor of God" to stand against the devil's schemes. This armor—truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the sword of the Spirit (the Word of God)—is for those who are committed to full obedience. Just as David was a man after God's own heart because his heart was always inclined towards obedience, we too, through Jesus Christ, have the power to overcome the world. Our faith, which believes that Jesus is the Son of God, is the victory that conquers the world. We have been given the kingdom of God within us by faith. Let us not, like Saul, forfeit it through partial obedience, fear of man, or self-justification. Instead, let us stand accountable, with the mindset of Jesus Christ, who was obedient even unto death, ensuring that the kingdom of God reigns not only in heaven but also on Earth, through us.
Hello, beloved readers. As we navigate a world that often feels chaotic and challenging, much like "the days of Noah," I want to share a profound truth that anchors our hope and empowers our lives: the New Covenant in Jesus Christ. Recently, I experienced a deeply humbling moment that underscored this truth. I confess, there was a day when my flesh was battling my spirit, and in a moment of distraction while driving on I-95, I looked down. For a split second, I saw a truck directly in my path—certain death. Yet, in that instant, the Lord had me look up and swerve, averting disaster. I am here today by His sheer mercy, a living testament to His faithfulness even when we are in the midst of our own struggles. No one else would have known the internal battle I was fighting, yet God, in His infinite grace, spared me. This experience brought to mind the profound struggles of the Israelites under the Old Covenant, the Law given through Moses. In Exodus 33 and 34, we read of Moses encountering God on the mountain. God promised to bring His people to a land flowing with milk and honey, a land He swore to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Yet, He also acknowledged they were a "stiff-necked people." Moses, recognizing their need, pleaded for God's presence, declaring, "I cannot go without your presence." This desire to "find grace" in God's sight is a powerful lesson for us today: communion with God requires us to set aside our routine and truly seek His face. When God established the first covenant, He gave the Ten Commandments. While we know the basic tenets—don't murder, don't steal, don't commit adultery—the fundamental question remains: Can we truly live by them? Honestly, most of us are not equipped to do so perfectly. Consider Isaiah, chapter 1, where God expresses His weariness with the empty sacrifices of His people. Their hands were "full of blood," their prayers unheard, because their hearts were far from Him. He asks, "How did the faithful city become a harlot?" This is a sobering question for us today. Are we, as believers, becoming so blended with society that we are lukewarm, abhorrent to the Lord, much like the church of Laodicea? But here is the glorious news: We thank God for Jesus! If we had to rely on our own performance of the Ten Commandments, we would surely fail. This is why the New Covenant, described in Hebrews 8:10-12, is so revolutionary: "For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel: I will put My laws into their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be My people... For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities I will remember no more." This is not a mere modification of the old; it's a completely new way of relating to God. The Old Covenant could only purify the flesh. But Jesus, our High Priest, through His own blood, entered the "holiest of holy" once and for all, obtaining eternal redemption for us. His sacrifice was not the temporary blood of bulls and goats, but His perfect, blemish-free life. Think about it: when Jesus was on earth, He taught that even a lustful glance constitutes adultery in the heart. This means we are all living under a state of transgression. The New Covenant, however, redeems us from these very transgressions that were under the First Testament, allowing us to receive "the promise of eternal inheritance." Just as an inheritance is received upon the death of the testator, Jesus died so that all He is, all His promises, could come to you and me. Christ ascended to heaven and appeared in the presence of God on our behalf. He bore the sins of many, and He will appear again a second time, not for sin, but for our salvation. Yes, we are living in days of great sin, violence, and atrocity. But I am here to tell you that salvation is still available, and it is found only through Christ Jesus. Even when we may not be perfect, Christ Jesus is. It is at His perfection that we stand. Let us humble ourselves, repent, confess our sins, and believe that God is faithful and just. He will forgive us and cleanse us of all unrighteousness. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal salvation. God bless you, and may the joy of the Lord be with you. Scriptures for Further Study John 17 (Jesus's prayer for His disciples) Romans (Paul's struggle with the flesh, particularly Romans 7) Exodus 33-34 (Moses's encounter with God and the giving of the Law) Isaiah 1 (God's rebuke of Israel's empty sacrifices and call to repentance) Hebrews 8:10-12 (Description of the New Covenant) Hebrews 9 (Christ's superior sacrifice and high priesthood) John 3:16 (God's love and the gift of eternal life)
The world today often feels like a mirror reflecting ancient prophecies. As Servant Marcia Carty of Heaven on Earth Ministries of Jesus Christ points out, the signs we see around us bear an uncanny resemblance to the "days of Noah"—a period marked by extreme violence, widespread wickedness, and a departure from divine order. Jesus himself prophesied His return during a time when conditions would mirror those days. While we may not be at the absolute climax, the escalating violence, the disturbing reports of child trafficking (with staggering numbers like 340,000 children reportedly disappearing after being imported to the U.S. from places like Guatemala), and the general decay of societal norms all serve as stark warnings. Crying Out in Troubled Times In the face of such overwhelming darkness, where does one begin? Servant Marcia turns to Psalm 28, a heartfelt cry to God: "To thee will I cry, O Lord, my rock, be not silent to me. Because if you are silent, I could become like them that go down into the pit." This verse underscores a profound truth: without God's voice reverberating in our spirits, we too risk succumbing to the wickedness that surrounds us. It's a call to persistent supplication, a constant turning to the Lord for strength and guidance. As Psalm 30 declares, "I will exalt thee, O Lord, for thou hast lifted me up… Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." This isn't a passive waiting, but an active pursuit of God's favor, for in His favor, there is life. The Inevitable Wrath of God The conversation then shifts to a solemn topic: the coming wrath of God. Isaiah 13 paints a chilling picture of this impending judgment. It describes the Lord of Hosts mustering His "holy ones"—angelic forces—from the ends of heaven to destroy the earth and its sinners. "For the day of the Lord is at hand," Isaiah proclaims, "It shall come as a destruction from the Almighty. Therefore shall all hands be faint, and every man's heart shall melt." The imagery is vivid: pains like a woman in childbirth, darkened sun and moon, and the proud laid low. This wrath is not arbitrary; it comes with a purpose: "to lay the land desolate, and destroy the sinners thereof out of it." The text even speaks of a time when "I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir." This signifies an unparalleled scarcity of humanity, a consequence of divine judgment so severe that the earth itself will be removed from its place. Attempts by governments to build underground cities, perhaps believing they can escape this wrath, will prove futile against a God who can shake the heavens and remove the earth. Signs of the End: A Call to Watchfulness Jesus himself, in Luke 21, provided clear signs of His coming and the end of the age. He warned against deception, declaring that many would come in His name, claiming to be Christ. He spoke of "wars and commotions," "nation rising against nation, and kingdom against kingdom," along with "great earthquakes, and famines, and pestilence, and fearful sights and great signs from heaven." We are living in a time when these prophecies seem to unfold daily. Crucially, Jesus also prepared His followers for persecution: "But before all these things, they shall lay their hands upon you, and persecute you, delivering you up... and ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake." Yet, amidst this dire warning, a paradox emerges: "But there shall not a hair of your head perish." This isn't a promise of physical immortality, but an assurance that our true, spiritual selves, created in God's image, will endure eternally. Whether in heaven or hell, existence is forever. Delivered From Wrath, Appointed to Salvation The overarching message, however, is one of hope and divine deliverance. Servant Marcia emphasizes the profound truth found in 1 Thessalonians 4: "For God has not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ." This is the core of the Gospel—Jesus died for us, providing a pathway to escape the very wrath detailed in Isaiah and Revelation. This salvation isn't a passive inheritance but requires a lifestyle of holiness and repentance. "Let us not sleep, as others do," she urges, "but let us watch and be sober." We, as believers, are children of light, called to put on "the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation." The miraculous promise of the Rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17) is presented as God's ultimate plan for His saints: "For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord." This is God's divine intervention, a rescue from the unfolding judgments of the world. The historical precedent of saints rising when Jesus was crucified (Matthew 27:52-53) serves as a tangible example of God's power to raise the dead. The Lamb Who Was Slain Finally, the message turns to Revelation 5 and 6, revealing the pivotal role of Jesus, "the Lamb as if it had been slain," in the unfolding of end-time events. He alone is worthy to open the seven seals, which represent the judgments of God upon the earth. The opening of these seals brings forth a conquering spirit, war that takes peace from the earth, famine, and widespread death. The fifth seal reveals those martyred for their faith, and the sixth brings a great earthquake, a darkened sun, a blood-red moon, and falling stars—all expressions of "the wrath of the Lamb, and from the face of him that sitteth on the throne." This terrifying sequence of events underscores the urgency of making Jesus "your lifestyle." It's a call to walk away from unrighteousness and embrace holiness, to acknowledge our shortcomings, repent, and receive the instant reconciliation and strength that comes through the blood of the Lamb. God, through Jesus, has developed a plan of action to save us from such wrath. The question remains: why not be saved? Why not choose deliverance and allow the Lamb of God to guide your life today?
In a world increasingly defined by chaos, uncertainty, and a pervasive sense of unrest, the prophetic words of scripture echo with renewed urgency. Servant Marcia Carty, in her powerful message "Jesus Is Coming: Rest and Wait," draws our attention to the striking parallels between today's global landscape and the biblical descriptions of the "Days of Noah," urging us to consider our spiritual posture in these pivotal times. It's undeniable that we are witnessing phenomena that once seemed confined to the realm of science fiction or ancient prophecy. The rise of sophisticated robotics, reports of spiritual manifestations, and widespread natural disasters—from seismic events like the recent 8.0+ earthquake in Russia to animals fleeing their natural habitats—all contribute to a sense that we are on the precipice of significant change. Jesus' own words in Matthew 24 and Luke 21, speaking of "wars and commotions," "nation rising against nation," "great earthquakes," "famines and pestilence," and "fearful sights and great signs from heaven," seem to be unfolding before our very eyes. The Heart of the Problem: Forsaking God But how did we arrive at such a precarious point? The prophet Jeremiah offers profound insight. God, through Jeremiah, expresses weariness with humanity's relentless turning away from Him. He laments, "Why have you forsaken me? You've gone backward. And I'm weary" (Jeremiah 15:6, paraphrased). This weariness of God stems from a people who have abandoned the "fountain of living waters" (Jeremiah 17:13) for the futility of human constructs. The core issue, Servant Marcia explains, lies in where we place our trust. Jeremiah 17:5-8 starkly contrasts the fate of those who trust in man versus those who trust in the Lord: -- Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from the Lord. Such a person is like "a shrub in the desert," unable to see good, inhabiting "parched places in the wilderness... a salt land which is not inhabited." This vivid imagery paints a picture of desolation and near-zero survival. -- Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord. This individual is compared to "a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit." What a profound difference! Our society often places its faith in political leaders, economic systems, military might, or personal accumulation of wealth. Yet, scripture repeatedly warns against such misplaced trust. The human heart, Jeremiah 17:9 reminds us, is "deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?" Only God, who searches the heart and tests the mind, truly understands our inner workings and will judge us according to our deeds. The Solution: Faith in Jesus Christ In light of this dire assessment, what hope do we have? The answer, Servant Marcia powerfully articulates, lies not in striving to perfectly adhere to a set of laws, but in faith—faith in Jesus Christ. Galatians chapter 3 illuminates this truth, declaring that "as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse" (Galatians 3:10). No one can be justified by the law in God's sight, because "the just shall live by faith" (Galatians 3:11). Christ, Servant Marcia explains, "has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us" (Galatians 3:13). Through Jesus, the blessing promised to Abraham—which was given before the law and fulfilled in Christ—now extends to all who believe, regardless of gender or ethnicity. By faith in Jesus, we are no longer slaves but "sons of God," adopted into His family, with the very Spirit of His Son crying "Abba, Father" in our hearts (Galatians 3:26, 4:5-7). This adoption means a new identity and purpose. As followers of Christ, we are called to arm ourselves "with the same mind of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 4:1). This means turning away from the "lusts of men"—the lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and idolatries that characterize a life apart from God. Our past suffices for such living; now, we are to live "for the will of God" (1 Peter 4:2). It may seem strange to our former acquaintances, but choosing righteousness means stepping away from the "same flood of dissipation" (1 Peter 4:4). Entering God's Rest and Waiting The message culminates in a powerful call to "rest and wait" – not in idleness, but in faith and preparedness. Just as God delivered Noah from the flood and Lot from Sodom and Gomorrah, He has a plan for His people. The Israelites' 40 years of wandering and dying in the wilderness stemmed from unbelief and a hardened heart, preventing them from entering God's promised rest. We, however, do not have to succumb to the "wilderness of evil civilization" we inhabit. Servant Marcia assures us that our "deliverance, our salvation is secure" in Christ. The key is to guard our hearts against unbelief and rebellion, to "hold our confidence steadfast to the end." This faith allows us to enter into God's promised rest, to not harden our hearts, and to live watchfully and prayerfully. "Jesus is coming. Saints of God, Jesus is coming," Servant Marcia proclaims with conviction. The question isn't if He's coming, but are we ready? The focus now must be on being "rapture ready," so that "when that trumpet is sound, we can be lifted up and be with our Savior." This isn't a call to fear, but to a profound peace that comes from resting in God's love and living a life yielded to His will. Scriptures for Further Study -- Matthew 24 -- Luke 21 -- Jeremiah 15 -- Jeremiah 17:5-10, 15-18 -- Jeremiah 18:15-17 -- Galatians 3:9-29 -- Hebrews 1 -- 1 Peter 4:1-4
In the chaotic world we live in, it's easy to get lost in the noise. The constant turbulence can make it difficult to know who to listen to, which path to follow, or what prophet's voice is truly from God. As we see violence, lawlessness, and a general hardness of heart increasing, we can't help but feel that we are living in a time similar to the days of Noah. In the days of Noah, God's instructions to His prophet seemed outlandish. Build a massive ark on dry land? To the people of that time, it likely felt like a foolish, even unnecessary, task. But Noah's obedience, born of faith, was his salvation. He submitted to a plan that defied natural logic. This very idea of submission is at the core of our relationship with God, and it’s a lesson the Israelites had to learn the hard way. The prophet Jeremiah was sent to them with a difficult message: they must submit to Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon. This was not the message the people wanted to hear. They considered themselves "blessed" and "highly favored," but they were disobedient to God's law. In their minds, serving a Gentile king was a curse, an act of bondage they would never accept. But Jeremiah, with a faith that showed great courage, stood before the princes and the people and declared, "The Lord sent me to prophesy against this house and against this city with all the words that you have heard. Now, therefore, amend your ways and your doings, and obey the voice of the Lord your God." He offered himself to them, saying, "Do with me as seems good and proper to you, but know for certain that if you put me to death, you will surely bring innocent blood on yourselves, for truly the Lord has sent me to speak all these words." Jeremiah's message was clear: The yoke of subjection to a foreign king was not a curse but a divinely ordained plan. God himself called Nebuchadnezzar His "servant," and He declared that any nation or kingdom that would not put its "neck under the yoke" of the king of Babylon would be punished with the sword, famine, and pestilence. In God's eyes, this was not punishment but a pathway to life and blessing. The Israelites' story holds a powerful lesson for us today. The prophets many people follow preach prosperity, influence, and social standing—messages that feel good but do not align with God's Word. The true prophet, like Jeremiah, calls people back to repentance, righteousness, and submission to the Lord. Just as the Israelites had to accept a yoke of bondage, we, as followers of Jesus, are called to wear a yoke of a different kind: the yoke of Jesus Christ. As He told His disciples, following Him would not always feel natural or easy. He spoke of things that sounded strange and difficult to comprehend. The world would hate them, not because they were doing anything wrong, but because they were not of the world. But Jesus also promised that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. This is not because the path is without challenge, but because when we submit to God's will, He places His blessings in the very places we naturally deem as "bondage." From the Israelites' submission, great leaders like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego emerged, who prospered even in a foreign land. The Bible also tells us that we must be subject to the governing authorities, for they are appointed by God. We may not always like the leaders God puts in place, but our submission to them is an act of obedience to God Himself. This is our time to "awake out of sleep," to cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. The world today, much like in the days of Noah, is growing dark. But for those who have a relationship with Jesus, we have a secret. That secret is to submit to the yoke of Jesus Christ. In this act of submission, we find not bondage but the promises and fulfillment of God's blessings. It is a path that reconciles us back to Him, fills us with His Spirit, and ensures our return to Him. Scriptures for Further Study -- Jeremiah 26 -- Jeremiah 27 -- John 13 -- John 16 -- Romans 13
We’ve arrived at a time reminiscent of the days of Noah, a time when covenants were not being kept and humanity had turned away from the great Creator. In those days, the only covenant that mattered—the one with God—was kept by only one man and his family: Noah. God, in His faithfulness, honored that covenant and saved them from the flood. In a world full of broken promises, God remains a God of covenant. He is just, faithful, and always keeps His side of the bargain. But we, humanity, often do not. We see this pattern of rebellion from the very beginning. When Adam and Eve rebelled against God’s will, a seed of disobedience was planted in their hearts. This seed then bore fruit in their firstborn, Cain, who manifested the ultimate end of rebellion by murdering his own brother. Cain was a tiller of the ground, a man with the power to plant a seed and watch it grow. Yet, when it came time to honor God with an offering, he lacked respect and submission. His parents’ sin—the decision that their own wisdom was better than God’s—was the same attitude of rebellion that lived in Cain’s heart. This teaches us a powerful truth: the seed we carry within us will produce the fruit we bear in our lives. The Bible is full of examples of this principle, both in rebellion and in righteousness. Consider the story of King Joash from 2 Chronicles. When the priest Jehoiada made a covenant with the people of Judah, they agreed to be the Lord’s people. They tore down the altars of false gods, and as a result, the land was quiet and they prospered. But when Jehoiada died, the people fell away from the covenant, returning to their idols and wicked ways. Wrath came upon them, and they were forsaken by the very God they had forsaken. This is a stark reminder for us today. The same apostasy we see in society—people falling away from the will of God—has its roots in a failure to keep our covenant with Him. You and I can prosper, not by comparing ourselves to our neighbors, but by taking inventory of our own lives and making a personal determination to submit to the Lord God Almighty. What has God asked you to do? What is the revelation He has given you? This submission must be unique and personal. Even in moments of judgment, God’s faithfulness shines through. Though He may allow nations to be His instrument of punishment, He always turns to protect His chosen people, Israel. As the prophet Zechariah foretold, God would be a "wall of fire" around them, shielding them from their enemies. This promise is not just for Israel; it is for every believer in Christ. When we submit to God, we, too, are covered. We are not only covered by the blood of the Lamb, but God Himself becomes our wall of fire. He is so faithful, and we can develop our own history with Him, drawing on past victories when calamities, confusion, and pestilence come against us. God's consistent plan is to remove our iniquity and clothe us in righteousness. This is made possible through the anointing of the Holy Spirit. As 1 John 2:27 says, "the anointing which you have received of him abideth in you...and is truth, and is no lie." This anointing is a seed, and it teaches us to abide in Him so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed. The truth is, whoever is born of God does not commit sin, "for his seed remaineth in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God." This is the key. The seed of righteousness in Christ empowers us to do what is right. It enables us to love our brothers and sisters and to not be like Cain, who was of the wicked one and hated his brother. In Revelation, we see the consistency of God's plan again. The servants of God are sealed on their foreheads with the "seal of the living God." This seal protects them and marks them as His. The multitude of believers from every nation, tribe, and tongue are clothed in white robes, which they have "washed...and made...white in the blood of the Lamb." This is a change of clothing, a promise of a new identity in Christ. So, can you make it in these days of Noah? Can you survive? Yes, yes, yes, and yes! It requires recognizing your covenantal relationship with the Creator of heaven and earth. This allows Him to seal you with the Holy Spirit, ensuring a change of clothing, placing a sign of royalty upon you, so that you can serve and reign in right standing with Him. He will even wipe away every tear from your eyes. Let's stay submitted to the Lord. Let's refuse to let the seed of disobedience and rebellion reign within us. Instead, let's receive the seed of righteousness that is in Christ Jesus. Our assignment is simple: "Be ready, be ready, be ready. Look up, your redemption draws nigh." God bless you. Remember, I love you, but the love that God has for you is so much greater. Receive it and love it. Scriptures for Further Study -- 2 Chronicles 23:16 -- 2 Chronicles 24:18 -- Zechariah 2:8-9 -- Zechariah 3 -- 1 John 2:27 -- 1 John 3 -- Revelation 7:2 -- Revelation 7:9-17